What does it look like to slow down and give space for both grief and creativity? In this episode, Teresa is sharing her story as we continue our series on seasons of formation. Teresa reflects on her faith journey and transitions from childhood to being exposed to more diverse backgrounds in college, and how ongoing experiences of grief, loss, and lament became a long-term theme in her formation. Teresa also traces a parallel theme of creative expression—music, worship ministry, entrepreneurship, and writing—now shaped by practices of slowing, deep rest, and “release,” including camping rhythms and her weekly “Rest Notes” writing commitment. She challenges those in their 60s and beyond to keep giving back as mentors and spiritual leaders.
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00:00 Welcome and Series Setup
01:47 Teresa Today at 65
05:17 Early Faith and Church Camp
08:14 Infertility and Loss Theme
09:00 What Grief Taught Me
11:49 Creativity as Formation
16:25 Rest and Slowing Down
19:00 Creating With God
25:14 Capturing Seasons in Writing
30:10 You Are Not Done Yet
32:05 Wrap Up and Resources
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About Teresa McCloy:
Teresa McCloy is the founder and creator of
the REALIFE Process®, a framework designed to empower individuals and groups with the tools, training, and community needed for personal and professional growth. Through the REALIFE Process®, Teresa is on a mission to help others grow in self-awareness, establish sustainable rhythms, and enhance their influence and impact by integrating faith and work into their everyday lives.
She lives with her husband of over four decades on their 5th generation family farm in central Illinois and enjoys great coffee, growing beautiful flower gardens, and traveling as much as possible. Connect with Teresa on
Facebook or
Instagram.
About Lindsay Sterchi:
Lindsay Sterchi is the Spiritual Formation Director at the REALIFE Process®. She also writes about habits and rhythms for the Mind, Body, and Soul for a holistic approach to spiritual growth and formation at
lindsaysterchi.substack.com.
She lives with her husband Tyler and elementary-aged twin daughters. She has an M.A. in Transformational Leadership from Bethel Seminary, and her background is in church ministry.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, you’re most likely to find her reading a good book. Connect with Lindsay on
Facebook or
Instagram.
What is the REALIFE Practice Podcast?
The REALIFE Practice Podcast is a space where hosts Teresa McCloy and Lindsay Sterchi explore the rhythms of life through the lens of spiritual growth. Together, they provide practical insights on how to integrate faith into everyday moments, offering tools and resources for deepening your faith, and recognizing and responding to God in your everyday life story. Through personal stories and reflections, the podcast encourages you to pay attention to God’s presence in both the ordinary and extraordinary. Whether you’re seeking spiritual renewal or simply want to practice living with intention, this podcast is your guide to nurturing your faith in daily life and your deeper life story.