Episodes
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Something Real: Artificial Intelligence and Intimacy
Pastor and professor Michael Grayston talks about what artificial intelligence may be doing to our relationships, our work, and even our spiritual lives. His concern is what happens when a helpful tool begins to function as a friend, counselor, romantic partner, or spiritual authority. We discuss AI companionship, loneliness, job displacement, prayer, creativity, and what…
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Exploring Sacred Spaces
Travel content creator Taylor Parr shares his incredible stories of global travel (about 40 countries in all), exploring religious sites, cultural traditions, and the profound impact of travel on his worldview. Discover how these experiences deepen understanding, challenge stereotypes, and inspire a life of gratitude and connection. Links: Taylor on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/travelwithtparr/ Taylor on…
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Religious Freedom in the U.S. Military
In this episode, Cara Schulz discusses the challenges faced by religious minorities in the U.S. Military, the importance of religious freedom, and her personal journey into paganism. She highlights the impact of military policies on religious recognition and shares insights on pagan ethics, community, and resilience. Resources: Cara’s Religious News Service Article: https://religionnews.com/2026/06/08/i-was-a-pagan-in-the-military-before-we-had-rights-were-going-back/ Cara Schulz…
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Finding Freedom in Flexibility
Therapist Danielle Kaplan shares insights on dialectical thinking, the importance of flexibility in life, and how ancient philosophies influence modern therapy. She discusses practices that resonate with Jewish tradition like dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, and contingency planning to help create a meaningful life. Resources: Danielle’s Practice: http://www.keepaustincentered.com The Order of Time by Carlo Rovelli: https://www.amazon.com/Order-Time-Carlo-Rovelli/dp/0735216118 …
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Pre-Birth Experience: Surrender and Trust
Christian Sundberg shares his insights into consciousness, spiritual awakening, and the nature of reality, exploring how life on Earth serves as a powerful spiritual growth opportunity. This conversation delves into pre-birth experiences, the limitations of religious frameworks, and practical ways to transcend trauma and fear. Christian Sundberg is the author of “A Walk in the…
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Local Histories, Memory, and Civic Harmony
Austin Albanese shares insights on the significance of small town Jewish histories, community memory, and the universal aspects of Jewish identity across time and place. Discover how local stories shape broader cultural understanding and foster interfaith and civic harmony. Resources: “Memory Is the Only Inheritance I Have” Substack : https://austinalbanese.substack.com/ Website: https://sites.google.com/view/austinalbanesehistory/bio Times of Israel…
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An Offering to the Land: Indigenous Traditions and Decolonization
Ethnographer of Religion Dr. Natalie Avalos explores the deep roots of indigenous religious traditions, the impact of settler colonialism, and paths toward healing the ontological wounds of colonization. She discusses the role of land, spirituality, and community in restoring indigenous sovereignty and cultural identity. Resources: Dr. Natalie Avalos’ Faculty Webpage: https://www.colorado.edu/ethnicstudies/people/core-faculty/natalie-avalos Send any questions or…
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The Gen Z Turn to Tradition
There are so many stories about Gen Z conversion to more traditional or more conservative denominations of Christianity. Whether this is a trend is debatable, but the lived experience of young adults in this cohort provides truly valuable insight into this cultural moment. Emily Dinneny is a prime example. She is a Gen Z convert…
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Healthy Relationships & Religion
Therapist and relationship coach Karen Gwaltney shares her journey through an evangelical upbringing, her crisis of faith, and her work in therapy focusing on religious trauma, spiritual abuse, and healthy relationships. Discover how a shift in spiritual perspective can foster greater self-trust, acceptance, and relational health. Resources: Karen’s Website – https://www.karengwaltney.com Karen’s Gentle Approach to…
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Stop Performing, Start Being by Awakening the Self
An enlightening conversation with Rev. Connie Habash who explores the intersection of spirituality, psychology, and nature. She discusses the concept of awakening the true self, the pitfalls of organized religion, and practical ways to cultivate inner peace and authenticity in a world allergic to stillness. Rev. Connie Habash’s Website: https://www.awakeningself.com Other Resources Mentioned In This…
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Journey from Jehovah’s Witness: Disfellowshipping to Self-Discovery
Yesenia Anaya shares her journey growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness, navigating faith, community, and personal growth. She discusses the beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses, her experiences with disfellowshipping, and her path to understanding spirituality beyond organized religion. Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Yesenia Anaya 02:13 Understanding Jehovah’s Witnesses 08:14 Personal Experiences with Jehovah’s Witnesses 13:58…
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Democratic Community in a Fragmented World
Activist and writer Elad Nehorai shares his religious journey through Jewish communities, his critique of community structures, and his insights on social media, community building, and the rise of extremism. In this conversation, we explore the intersection of spirituality, identity, and technology in shaping modern society and movements. Find more about Elad Nehorai here: https://eladnehorai.substack.com/…
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Commandments and Classrooms…and so Much More
A pastor who is part of a lawsuit against her children’s school district to stop them from posting the 10 Commandments in the classrooms, Rev. Kristen Klade shares her experiences as a Lutheran pastor and hospice chaplain, discussing the unique aspects of her ministry, the challenges she faces, and the importance of community engagement in…
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How Heritage and Identity Shape Spirituality
Gabrielle Deonath, a Guyanese-American Muslim writer and editor, discusses her unique cultural heritage and the intersection of identity, religion, and writing. Gabrielle shares insights into her family’s history, tracing their roots from India to Guyana and eventually to the United States. She reflects on the complexities of her identity as an Indo-Caribbean Muslim. The conversation…
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The Spirituality of Bird Photography with the Avian Rebbe
Aaric Eisenstein, known as the Avian Rebbe, shares his journey of combining bird photography with Jewish teachings. Aaric discusses how birdwatching became a therapeutic escape during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizes the spiritual connection he finds in nature. The conversation explores the symbolism of birds in Jewish thought and the relationship between humans and nature.…
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An Independent Rabbi Defining His Own Judaism and Finding a More Authentic Connection to God
In this conversation, Rabbi Israel Horowitz shares his transformative journey from an ultra-Orthodox upbringing to a personal, Torah-centered spirituality. He critiques the legalistic nature of Yeshiva education and the Talmud’s role in Jewish life, advocating for a direct relationship with the Torah. Rabbi Horowitz discusses the barriers to conversion in Judaism, the commercialization of Jewish…
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Faith and Empire: Cody Robinson on the Indian Methodist Church and Post-Colonial Spirituality
In this episode, Eli speaks with Cody Robinson, a prominent United Keetoowah scholar and theologian, about the intersection of Native American spirituality and Methodism. They explore the importance of community in faith, the historical context of Indian boarding schools, and the evolving views on theocracy and morality. Cody shares insights on integrating Native spirituality into…
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Christian Nationalism and Masculinity
Leigh Larson, a storyteller and humanitarian worker, shares her journey of faith, her experiences as a military chaplain, and her insights on Christian nationalism in the military. Leigh discusses her religious identity, the impact of high church services on her spirituality, and the complexities of masculinity within religious contexts. The conversation also touches on the…
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Building Bridges Between Beliefs
Eli and Lindsay Medenwaldt explore the complexities of faith, community, and the art of conversation. Lindsay shares her journey from a Pentecostal upbringing to a non-denominational faith, emphasizing the importance of understanding different worldviews and engaging in meaningful dialogue. They discuss the role of apologetics in building bridges between differing beliefs and the significance of…
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Jews and Tattoos
In this conversation, Rabbi David Braslawsce, known as the Tattoo Rabbi, shares his unique journey from a wild childhood in Pennsylvania to becoming a Chabad Rabbi in Israel. He discusses the complexities of Jewish identity, the impact of recent events in Israel, and his exploration of spirituality through Buddhism. The conversation delves into the significance…
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Navigating Faith and Politics
From political advocacy in Washington, D.C., to an Evangelical seminary on the West Coast, Elizabeth shares her experience pursuing a Master’s in Ministry Leadership and how the role of faith in politics has changed over the past several presidential election cycles. About Elizabeth Elizabeth Spillman from Portland, Oregon who is pursuing a Master’s degree in…
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“Agnostish”
Destiny (president of the New Wave Feminists) shares her story about coming from a Christian background, being “agnostish,” her views on the intersection between feminism and consistent life ethic, and finding community beyond traditional church structures. About Destiny Destiny Herndon‑De La Rosa is a pro‑life feminist, consistent life ethic advocate, and the founder and president of the…
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Social Justice and Modern Prophetic Christianity
We hear from my friend and the host of the Prophetic Justice Podcast, Tatiana Bergum, about how her Christian faith influenced her career choices and the decision to start her own podcast.
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Kinda Religious
An introduction to the Kinda Religious Podcast where we explore religion, spirituality, and skepticism through discussion with some fascinating people who share stories about how they find meaning in their lives.
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Kinda Religious Trailer
Kinda Religious podcast, hosted by Eli Zaffirini, aims to explore diverse, personal stories of finding meaning, identity, and connection in life. This podcast seeks to promote mutual understanding and of the cultural direction in the 21st century.
