What if the dry, weary place you’re in isn’t something to escape—but a place where God is working?

So many of us know that quiet middle space: you’re not in crisis, but you’re not exactly flourishing either. You’re tired, spiritually dry, disconnected, or simply going through the motions. It’s not dramatic enough to call a breakdown, but something in you knows you’re weary.

In this episode, Dr. Alison and author/priest Tish Harrison Warren explore what grows in these weary places—and why seasons of spiritual dryness, burnout, and languishing aren’t signs that something is wrong with you.

They may be part of how God forms you.

Together, they talk about aridity, resilience, stability, and what it means to stay present to the life you actually have instead of constantly looking for a way out.

You’ll discover:

Why spiritual dryness doesn’t mean you’re failing
The difference between depression, burnout, and languishing
What the desert fathers and mothers can teach us about resilience
Why “staying in your cell” can become a path of formation
How ordinary repair, routines, and relationships shape us over time
What it means to let where you are do its work
How hope changes the way we endure hard seasons

This conversation offers a counter-cultural invitation: you don’t have to rush out of the weary place. There may be something growing there.

More Resources:

📖 Find a full transcript and list of resources from this episode⁠ here⁠

Order What Grows in Weary Lands - out this week!

You can preorder Dr. Alison’s newest book, The Secure Soul, and immediately receive the first 3 chapters as well as early access to the companion guide!

Connect further with @dralisoncook on Instagram

Curious what Family Role may have shaped you? Take the Family Role Quiz to learn how you may be showing up in your relationships with others.

Want to hear more like this? Start here:

Episode 159: Spiritual Drowning, Honest Questions, and a God Who Doesn’t Let Go with Heather Thompson Day

Episode 176: Dr. Stephen Macchia on Intimacy with God in a Noisy World

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While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍

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