Holy Rebels

Nina Hirlaender OFS
  • 5.0 (24)
  • SPIRITUALITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

You're listening to Holy Rebels, where ancient wisdom meets modern spirituality to help you connect with your soul so you can become who you were born to be. Each week, we take a fresh look at the wisdom of the mystics—You’ll discover luminaries such as Mary Magdalene, Francis of Assisi and Teresa of Avila, and find inspiration in the practical spirituality of trailblazers like Dorothy Day and Thomas Merton. Along the way, we journey to the world’s sacred sites (think Chartres Cathedral, the Isle of Iona, and the Camino de Santiago), and unearth the secrets of cultural treasures like the Book of Kells and the Song of Songs. Your host Nina Hirlaender is a Franciscan Sister, expert on mystical theology, and founder of Dancing Spirit Tours. If you feel curious about life’s most profound questions, this vibrant audio tapestry will leave you spellbound. Join our global community of listeners in 50+ countries and find out why Holy Rebels has become an irresistible sensation! www.HolyRebelsPodcast.com

  1. 3D AGO

    Advent Week 4 | Love You Don’t Have to Earn

    Part 4 of a 4-week Advent series released every Sunday. There comes a point in the spiritual journey where effort quietly runs out. Where striving no longer works. Where something in you longs not for improvement, but for rest. If you’ve ever felt like love was something you had to earn—through goodness, productivity, spirituality, or self-control—this final Advent episode is for you. Welcome to the fourth week of Advent on the Holy Rebels Podcast, where we make space for grounded spiritual practices, nervous system awareness, and the deep wisdom of the Christian mystical tradition. This week is all about Love. Not romantic love. Not approval. Not love as a reward. But the love you don’t have to earn—the love you can rest in. Nina Hirlaender OFS brings together Franciscan spirituality, mystical theology, and psychology to explore Love not as a feeling we chase, but as the ground of being itself—the presence that holds when joy rises and falls, when faith feels strong or thin. Across the contemplative tradition, love is not something added to life after we get it right. It is the deeper reality already giving itself to us—before achievement, before repair, before worthiness. This episode traces how Advent has been gently leading us here all along: from trusting, to resting, to tasting… into abiding.  What you’ll take away from this episode: the meaning of Love as the fourth and final theme of Adventwhy love is not a wage, reward, or outcome—but a giventhe difference between original sin and original grace—and why it matterswhy receiving love can feel unsafe when the nervous system is burned outa practical re-script for the belief “If I’m good enough, then I’ll be loved”how love takes flesh in ordinary life—boundaries, giving, receiving, and restLove isn’t something you rise up to. It’s something you lean back into. It is already here—beneath the noise, beneath the effort, steady as your breath. Advent doesn’t end by asking you to try harder or become better. It ends by inviting you to rest in what has been holding you all along. Press play to enter the final week of Advent with more spaciousness, more honesty, and a deeper trust in the love that does not withdraw.  This is the love you don’t have to earn. Send Nina a text message. Support the show Rate, Review & Follow “I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.com Connect with me! facebook instagram

    43 min

  2. DEC 13

    Advent Week 3 | Finding Joy You Can Trust

    Part 3 of a 4-week Advent series released every Sunday Joy is everywhere in the culture — sold, studied, optimized, hashtagged — and yet so many people feel flat, numb, or quietly exhausted instead of joyful. If you’ve ever wondered why joy feels harder to trust than it should, this episode is for you. Welcome to the third week of Advent on the Holy Rebels Podcast, where we make space for grounded spiritual practices, nervous system awareness, and the deep wisdom of the Christian mystical tradition. This week is all about Joy. Not forced positivity. But a joy you can trust — the kind that doesn’t disappear when life gets hard. Nina Hirlaender OFS brings together Franciscan spirituality, psychology, and neuroscience to explore why modern culture struggles with joy, and why Advent offers a radically different invitation. This is Gaudete Sunday — the moment when the tradition calls us to rejoice in the middle of waiting, not after everything is resolved.  What you’ll take away from this episode: why joy is not the same thing as happiness, and why chasing happiness often backfires how loneliness, exhaustion, and pressure to “be happy” block our capacity for joywhat psychology and neuroscience reveal about joy as a body-based, relational statethe meaning of Gaudete Sunday and why joy appears in the middle of Adventthe five most common obstacles to joya simple Advent candle practice to help joy arrive gently, without forcingJoy is the felt experience of connection — to love, to meaning, to God, to your own deepest self. It can coexist with grief, uncertainty, fatigue, and unfinished stories. Advent doesn’t ask you to pretend you feel joyful. It invites you to discover a joy that can live inside what is unresolved. Press play to enter Week Three of Advent with more honesty, more spaciousness, and a deeper trust in the quiet joy that is already arriving. Send Nina a text message. Support the show Rate, Review & Follow “I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.com Connect with me! facebook instagram

    39 min

  3. DEC 6

    Advent Week 2 | Peace When Life Won’t Slow Down

    Part 2 of a 4-week Advent series released every Sunday. Life doesn’t slow down during the holidays just because you want it to. The emails keep coming, the world keeps moving, and your mind keeps spinning—even as something in you longs for quiet. If that’s been your experience this year, this week’s episode is where you’ll find grounded support. Welcome to Week Two of Advent on the Holy Rebels Podcast, where we make space for spiritual honesty, nervous-system awareness, and practical ways to anchor yourself when life refuses to cooperate. This week is all about Peace. Not the version that waits for silence. The version that becomes possible even while everything around you stays loud. Nina Hirlaender OFS brings together the mystical meaning of Advent with psychology-based practices around nervous system regulation, emotional overload, and the inner orientation that allows peace to rise from within. St Clare of Assisi accompanies us, offering a real examples of what peace looked like in moments that were anything but calm. What you'll take away from this episode: what the second week of Advent symbolizes historically and spirituallythe difference between calm (a state) and peace (an orientation of the soul)how stress pulls you away from presence—and how to interrupt that patternwhat Clare of Assisi’s courage reveals about inner steadinesshow to identify your “peace threshold” when life feels unmanageablea simple practice to help your nervous system settlehow to begin Week Two with alignment rather than pressurePeace isn't the absence of noise. Peace is the awareness that God is present inside what hasn’t resolved yet. It grows through noticing, returning, and softening what has been clenched for too long. Press play to enter the second week of Advent with a steadier center, a calmer body, and a deeper experience of presence. Send Nina a text message. Support the show Rate, Review & Follow “I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.com Connect with me! facebook instagram

    27 min

  4. NOV 29

    Advent Week 1 | Hope for an Uncertain Future

    Part 1 of a 4-week Advent series released every Sunday. There’s a moment at the beginning of Advent when something in you finally exhales. A small but real sense of relief that you don’t have to be fully “ready” to begin again. If you’ve been carrying more than you want to admit — the anxiety, the uncertainty, the subtle fear that the future is shrinking instead of opening — this episode is where you’ll feel held. Welcome to the first week of Advent on the Holy Rebels Podcast, where we make space for grounded spiritual practices, nervous system awareness, and the quiet wisdom of the Christian mystical tradition. This week is all about Hope. Not the kind you manufacture. The kind that returns when your body feels safe enough to imagine possibility again. Nina Hirlaender OFS brings together the deeper spiritual meaning of Advent with what psychology now understands about future orientation, resilience, and the nervous system.  St Francis and St Clare of Assisi walk with us as guides, offering a way of living that stays steady even when life feels uncertain. What you’ll take away from this episode: the meaning of Advent as “arrival” and why it begins in the darkwhy so many people today feel disconnected from the futurehow hope actually forms — through goals, pathways, and agencywhat Francis and Clare can teach you about trusting the next stepa simple embodied practice to help your system calm and re-openhow to begin Advent with clarity instead of pressureHope isn’t a mood. It’s a nervous-system shift. It returns slowly, through safety, honesty, and the gentle willingness to soften what’s been clenched for too long. Press play to begin the season with space around your heart and steadiness in your body. Send Nina a text message. Support the show Rate, Review & Follow “I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.com Connect with me! facebook instagram

    28 min

  5. 07/22/2024

    Mary Magdalene: Sacred Femininity and Redemption

    In this captivating episode, we dive deep into the life and legacy of Mary Magdalene, one of history's most enigmatic and influential figures. Journey with us as we explore medieval tales of Mary's final years in the south of France, uncovering the sacred mountain of Sainte Baume and the astonishing discovery of her supposed remains in Saint Maximin. We unravel the intriguing forensic research that brings Mary's story into the modern era. As we continue, we confront the complex cultural and psychological phenomena surrounding Mary Magdalene, including the archetypal tension between the maternal and the erotic, shedding light on how Mary embodies this duality in ways that captivate and challenge us. This episode offers a heartfelt meditation on true repentance and its transformative power, using Mary Magdalene's journey as a metaphor for spiritual healing and unconditional love. We end with an inspiring announcement about the upcoming Mary Magdalene pilgrimage in France! You're invited to walk in her footsteps and experience the places that hold her enduring legacy. Join Franciscan Sister Nina Hirlaender for an episode filled with historical intrigue, deep psychological insights, and a spiritual adventure that promises to be both enlightening and transformative. Send Nina a text message. Support the show Rate, Review & Follow “I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.com Connect with me! facebook instagram

    26 min

  6. 05/16/2024

    The Mystery of Mary Magdalene: Unveiling The True Story

    Mary Magdalene is a woman shrouded in mystery and misinterpretation. We journey through the Gospels to unravel her true identity, exploring her profound roles and the symbolism she carries. Through careful examination of biblical texts, we shine a light on her secret knowledge that transcend the understanding of even Jesus' closest male disciples. This episode portrays Mary as a "wise woman," intimately linked with the sacred cycles of life and death, and underscores her monumental significance as the first witness to the resurrection, positioning her not merely as a bystander but as a pivotal leader in early Christianity. Prepare to be inspired by the resilient spirit and transformative essence of Mary Magdalene, and discover how her legacy continues to resonate with spiritual seekers today. Send Nina a text message. Support the show Rate, Review & Follow “I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.com Connect with me! facebook instagram

    31 min

  7. 04/11/2024

    Spiritual Desolation: 3 Reasons You Feel Distant From God

    What should you do when you feel distant from God? In this episode, we dive deep into the concepts of Spiritual Desolation and the Discernment of Spirits as taught by Ignatius of Loyola.  We explore the three main reasons why desolation might be showing up in your life: neglecting your spiritual life, learning to love the Divine for its own sake, and being reminded of your ultimate dependence on God. We also discuss how to prevent, endure, and conquer Spiritual Desolation, and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in every situation.  Key Takeaways: * Ignatius of Loyola: Explore the revolutionary insights of Ignatius, whose spiritual exercises have profoundly impacted the way we understand our inner lives. * Spiritual Desolation: Delve into the nature of Spiritual Desolation, understanding its reasons and how it serves as a catalyst for profound spiritual growth. * Discernment of Spirits: Unpack guidelines for Spiritual Desolation from Discernment of Spirits that Ignatius proposed for recognizing and acting upon the movements within one's soul. * Practical Application: Learn about actionable, practical strategies derived from the 500-year-old wisdom of Ignatius for facing fears and making wise, clear decisions. Whether you're wrestling with Spiritual Desolation or simply seeking to deepen your relationship with yourself and the divine, this episode offers valuable insights and practical guidance rooted in the age-old wisdom of Ignatius of Loyola. Join us as we explore how to trust the mystic within and find peace amidst the fog of uncertainty. Send Nina a text message. Support the show Rate, Review & Follow “I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.com Connect with me! facebook instagram

    33 min

  8. 04/01/2024

    Discernment of Spirits: The Wisdom of Ignatius of Loyola

    The mystical teachings of Ignatius of Loyola guide us through the complexities of our spiritual journey. Applying the principles of Discernment of Spirits will help you navigate the highs and lows of your spiritual life. Discover the essence of Spiritual Consolation—those moments when you feel an unshakable connection to your deeper self and the divine, bringing clarity and joy to your spiritual journey. Contrastingly, we'll tackle the challenging phases of Spiritual Desolation  in a future episode. This is where feelings of isolation and confusion might overwhelm, yet also serve as critical periods for growth and introspection.  This episode isn’t merely theoretical; it's crafted to be your experiential guide towards recognizing these spiritual states in yourself. We'll explore ways to stay grounded during spiritual desolation and how to genuinely connect with your inner wisdom amidst life's chaos. Expect practical insights into:  Identifying moments of Spiritual Consolation and what they mean for your personal growth. Strategies to find God and peace within even when life feels challenging. The reality behind "manifesting your dreams" and discerning genuine spiritual desires.Differentiating between mere emotional highs and profound spiritual experiences. How to stay calm, regardless of your external circumstances. An introduction to The Examen, St. Ignatius' powerful practice for daily reflection and discernment Send Nina a text message. Support the show Rate, Review & Follow “I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.com Connect with me! facebook instagram

    30 min
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About

You're listening to Holy Rebels, where ancient wisdom meets modern spirituality to help you connect with your soul so you can become who you were born to be. Each week, we take a fresh look at the wisdom of the mystics—You’ll discover luminaries such as Mary Magdalene, Francis of Assisi and Teresa of Avila, and find inspiration in the practical spirituality of trailblazers like Dorothy Day and Thomas Merton. Along the way, we journey to the world’s sacred sites (think Chartres Cathedral, the Isle of Iona, and the Camino de Santiago), and unearth the secrets of cultural treasures like the Book of Kells and the Song of Songs. Your host Nina Hirlaender is a Franciscan Sister, expert on mystical theology, and founder of Dancing Spirit Tours. If you feel curious about life’s most profound questions, this vibrant audio tapestry will leave you spellbound. Join our global community of listeners in 50+ countries and find out why Holy Rebels has become an irresistible sensation! www.HolyRebelsPodcast.com

Information

  • Creator
    Nina Hirlaender OFS
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Holy Rebels
  • Show Website
    Holy Rebels

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