You Made It Weird with Pete Holmes: Episode Featuring Richard Rohr – A Deep Dive into Love, Oneness, and Spiritual Transformation

Release Date: June 11, 2025

In this enlightening third installment of his podcast, Pete Holmes welcomes the esteemed Father Richard Rohr for a profound conversation that transcends traditional comedic boundaries. Father Rohr, a renowned Franciscan friar and author, delves into themes of love, oneness, spiritual transformation, and the human condition, offering listeners both depth and warmth.

1. Introduction and Welcoming Remarks

Pete Holmes opens the episode with heartfelt appreciation for Richard Rohr, highlighting Rohr's influential works like "Tears of Things" and "The Universal Christ". He emphasizes the transformative impact Rohr has had on millions, including himself, setting a tone of reverence and anticipation for the discussion ahead.

• Pete Holmes [00:08]: "Richard Rohr... has written books that have absolutely changed my life and millions and millions of other people's lives."

2. The Essence of Kindness and Oneness

The conversation quickly moves to the nature of kindness. Pete poses a thought-provoking question about whether Rohr's kindness stems from effort or a deeper recognition of shared essence.

• Pete Holmes [08:54]: "When it comes to kindness... are you kind out of an effort... or recognizing the sacred moment that you and I are the same?"

• Richard Rohr [08:56]: "It's both."

Rohr acknowledges the challenge in approaching every person with the divine image, noting personal growth in overcoming irritation towards others' eccentricities.

3. Exploring Non-Duality and Shared Consciousness

Pete introduces the concept of non-duality, drawing parallels with teachings from mystics like Meister Eckhart and modern spiritual voices such as Rupert Spira.

• Pete Holmes [12:03]: "You've made that quote... there is only one knowing that matters."

• Richard Rohr [29:16]: "In the one, we are one."

They discuss the complexity of experiencing oneness without falling into narcissism or losing individual significance.

4. Love as a Transformative Force

Delving deeper, Rohr defines love not merely as a positive feeling but as a profound, sometimes harsh, transformative force.

• Richard Rohr [17:22]: "Love is a harsh and dreadful thing."

He explains that true love requires surrender and faithfulness, often leading to trials that foster personal growth and wisdom.

• Pete Holmes [21:14]: "The Hound of Heaven... wants to devour you into itself, to return."

5. The Role of Suffering in Spiritual Growth

The dialogue transitions to the integral role of suffering in spiritual development. Rohr emphasizes that acknowledging and embracing sadness leads to deeper wisdom and holiness.

• Richard Rohr [20:23]: "The Tears of Things... everything has tears, everything has sadness."

• Pete Holmes [55:45]: "Love and suffering are certainly available to everybody."

6. Critique of Traditional Religious Narratives

Rohr offers a critical perspective on certain biblical narratives, advocating for a more compassionate and less judgmental understanding of scripture.

• Richard Rohr [52:14]: "If there's one book I wish we hadn't included, it's definitely the Book of Revelation."

He highlights the negative impact of misinterpretations, especially concerning sin and evil, urging a shift towards solidarity with sinners.

7. The Practical Implications of Spiritual Teachings

The conversation touches on practical aspects of applying spiritual insights to daily life, including handling anger and embracing authentic emotions.

• Richard Rohr [58:17]: "Recognize its sadness. You're deeply sad."

• Pete Holmes [62:26]: "It's bizarre. I'm not saying that really from my first perspective."

8. Reflections on Modern Challenges: AI and Technology

In a brief yet poignant exchange, they touch upon the advent of Artificial Intelligence, contemplating its potential paradoxes and the need for wise stewardship.

• Pete Holmes [63:38]: "Future generations might be able to have a conversation with an amalgamation of you based on conversations like this."

• Richard Rohr [63:32]: "I really don't... we need wise people."

9. Concluding Thoughts and Future Engagements

As the episode draws to a close, Pete expresses deep gratitude for Rohr's teachings and the lasting impact they've had on his life. They humorously exchange farewells, maintaining the warmth and mutual respect that permeated the conversation.

• Pete Holmes [65:00]: "I love you so much. I really... Support your moon morning or your afternoon routine and support the show."

Notable Quotes

• Pete Holmes [08:54]: "Are you kind out of an effort, like a good Kansas boy? Out of being polite... or recognizing the sacred moment that you and I are the same?"

• Richard Rohr [17:22]: "Love is a harsh and dreadful thing."

• Richard Rohr [29:16]: "In the one, we are one."

• Richard Rohr [52:14]: "If there's one book I wish we hadn't included, it's definitely the Book of Revelation."

• Richard Rohr [58:17]: "Recognize its sadness. You're deeply sad."

Conclusion

This episode of You Made It Weird serves as a bridge between humor and deep spiritual inquiry. Father Richard Rohr's insights challenge listeners to reconsider traditional notions of love, oneness, and personal transformation. Pete Holmes skillfully navigates these profound topics with warmth and curiosity, making complex spiritual concepts accessible and relatable. For those seeking a blend of humor and depth, this conversation offers both, encouraging a journey towards greater self-awareness and compassionate living.