Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I’ve Loved

Meet Kate Bowler, a remarkable individual whose journey has taken her from studying our stories of success and suffering to confronting her own battle with illness. You might have heard of her – she's a New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and a professor at Duke University. In her earlier days, Kate delved into the fascinating world of the "prosperity gospel," a belief that having the right faith will bring health and wealth. She traveled across North America, talking to megachurch leaders, everyday believers, and televangelists to understand how people find meaning in both good and tough times. This journey culminated in her acclaimed book, "Blessed: A History of the American Prosperity Gospel," which got a lot of attention and even some playful #blessed puns. However, life took an unexpected turn when Kate was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer at just 35 years old. Suddenly, the research and beliefs she had been studying took on a personal dimension. She shared her journey of grappling with this new reality in her bestselling memoir, "Everything Happens for a Reason (and Other Lies I’ve Loved)." In it, she explored the American belief that tragedies are tests of character. Her passion for understanding people's stories led her to explore the lives of influential evangelical women in her third book, "The Preacher’s Wife: The Precarious Power of Evangelical Women Celebrities." These women, whether standing beside their husbands or independently, wear various hats – devoted spouse, spiritual guide, and even Hollywood celebrity. Through her popular podcast, "Everything Happens," Kate engages in meaningful conversations with notable figures like Malcolm Gladwell, Matthew McConaughey, and Anne Lamott. Together, they share the wisdom and truths they've uncovered while navigating challenging circumstances. Kate's most recent book, "No Cure For Being Human (and Other Truths I Need to Hear)," digs deep into her own experience with illness, her aspirations, and her faith. She navigates the complexities of accepting limitations in a culture that constantly promises boundless possibilities. Kate's work has made waves, earning recognition from NPR, The Today Show, The New York Times, The Washington Post, the TED Stage, and Fresh Air with Terry Gross. She resides in Durham, North Carolina, with her family, where she continues to teach at Duke Divinity School and gathers stories about the unexpected advantages of hailing from the heart of Canada. In a world where many of our blog visitors generously support those facing health challenges, Kate's journey resonates deeply. Her path from studying cultural narratives to confronting personal adversity highlights the shared human experience and the strength we find in our stories.