Kinda Religious

Eli Zaffirini
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SPIRITUALITY

Exploring religion, spirituality, and skepticism through real stories. No debates. No shouting. Just thoughtful conversations about how we find meaning, identity, and connection in a changing world.

  1. 48M AGO

    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 comments to: info@kindareligious.com  Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Decolonization and Indigenous Perspectives 03:15 Understanding Settler Colonialism 06:10 Religious Discourse in Colonial Contexts 08:57 Historical Trauma and Its Impacts 12:00 The Concept of Land in Indigenous Cultures 14:41 The Ontological Wound of Colonization 17:58 Healing Through Cultural Reclamation 20:46 Decolonization as Community Building 23:41 The Role of Religion in Indigenous Identity 26:22 Comparative Perspectives: US vs. Mexico 29:22 Mestizaje and Identity in the Americas 35:44 Navigating Native Identity in a Colonial Context 38:53 Cultural Contradictions: Indigenous Identity in Latin America 41:21 Religion as Camouflage: Indigenous Spirituality and Christianity 48:19 Experiential Understanding of Indigenous Religion 54:10 Individualism vs. Community: The Indigenous Perspective 01:00:12 Reconnecting with Indigenous Ancestry and Practices

    1h 11m

  2. APR 28

    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 to Roman Catholicism who also has a significant social media presence and now works in Catholic apologetics. Here she shares her journey from non-denominational Christianity to Catholicism, exploring the appeal of liturgy, tradition, and community. Links: Emily on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@catholic.converts/ Emily on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/catholic.converts/ Emily’s at Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/emily-dinneny Saint Ignatius of Loyola's Prayer: https://prayerguide.org/ignatius-prayer Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Gen Z and Religion 03:12 Emily's Conversion Journey 06:06 The Appeal of Traditional Liturgy 08:54 Mental Health and Religion 11:55 Navigating Online Discourse 14:46 Authority and Trust in Online Content 17:46 Constructive Argument vs. Conflict 20:47 The Noise of Modern Discourse 23:34 Diversity in Catholic Worship 26:45 Comparing Protestant and Catholic Practices 31:32 Exploring Community and Church Engagement 34:26 The Role of Rituals in Faith 35:39 Personal Experiences with Liturgy 41:00 Human Dignity and the Value of Life 45:58 The Impact of Consumerism on Faith 48:13 The Search for Authentic Community 53:13 Redefining Freedom in a Religious Context 59:11 Perceptions of Religion Among Generations 01:02:41 Meaningful Practices and Reflections

    1h 5m

  3. APR 15

    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.comKaren’s Gentle Approach to Sex Talks - https://www.karengwaltney.com/parent-coachingFacing Codependence by Pia Melody - https://www.amazon.com/Pia-Melody/e/B001LHF4UOThe Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck, M.D. - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0743243153 Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Karen Gwaltney and Her Background 02:54 Exploring Evangelical Upbringing and Its Impact 05:21 Transitioning Between Different Church Denominations 07:34 Theological Interests and Crisis of Faith 10:07 Understanding Religious Trauma and Spiritual Abuse 12:15 The Role of Therapy in Healing 14:54 Deconstructing Faith and Rebuilding Identity 17:15 Near-Death Experiences and Their Influence on Faith 28:58 Exploring Near-Death Experiences and Consciousness 33:31 Embracing Humanity and the Human Experience 40:24 Understanding Boundaries in Religious Practice 46:09 The Importance of Comprehensive Sexuality Education 51:48 Reconstructing Faith and Spiritual Practices

    1h 2m

  4. MAR 25

    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 Episode: Mata Amritanandamayi (Amma) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mata_Amritanandamayi Jack Kornfield - https://jackkornfield.com Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Spirituality and Wellness 02:02 The Influence of Mata Amritanandamayi 03:59 Connie's Spiritual Journey and Interfaith Ministry 05:53 The Dichotomy of Organized Religion and Spirituality 09:53 Understanding the Self: Small-S vs. Large-S 13:46 The Challenge of Spiritual Expectations 17:27 The Role of Perfectionism in Spirituality 21:40 Judgment vs. Discernment in Spiritual Practice 25:40 The Importance of Humility in Spiritual Growth 33:06 The Essence of Humility 35:12 Navigating Social Media and Authenticity 41:25 Healthy vs. Unhealthy Spirituality 45:15 Dialoguing with Anxiety 50:05 Understanding Internal Narratives 58:42 The Importance of Stillness 01:00:34 Spiritual Health and Mental Health Connection 01:03:11 Nature as a Source of Wisdom

    1h 7m

  5. MAR 10

    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 Disfellowshipping and Its Impact 21:59 Family Dynamics and Religion 30:10 The Role of Structure in Faith 33:02 The Burden of Perfection and Fear of Disfellowshipping 34:44 The Impact of Disfellowshipping on Family Dynamics 39:49 Navigating Relationships After Disfellowshipping 42:14 The Role of Support Systems in Crisis 44:53 Reassessing Faith and Relationship with God 49:52 Exploring Diverse Perspectives on Belief 56:45 The Journey of Unlearning and Self-Discovery 01:01:43 Advice to My Younger Self: Embracing Grace 01:03:08 The Power of Perspective and Mindfulness

    1h 6m

  6. FEB 24

    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/https://www.instagram.com/eladnehoraihttps://bsky.app/profile/eladn.bsky.social And his newest project, Here We Come Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-we-come/id1860213191  Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Exploring Jewish Identity and Community Diversity 03:11 The Journey from Secular to Religious Judaism 06:06 Navigating Ideological and Social Changes 08:46 The Impact of Community on Personal Beliefs 11:52 The Role of Creativity in Spiritual Expression 14:24 Founding Hevria: A Space for Creative Voices 17:03 The Interplay of Online and Offline Communities 20:06 Vulnerability and Community in the Digital Age 23:10 Lessons in Community Building 29:29 Navigating Online and Offline Identities 32:29 The Impact of Community on Society 35:36 The Role of Technology in Human Connection 39:19 The Illusion of Control in Social Media 45:19 The Rise of Antisemitism in the Algorithmic Age 55:40 Building Meaning Through Community 01:00:07 Creating Sustainable Communities for Change

    1h 3m

  7. FEB 3

    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 faith. She also reflects on her personal spirituality and the formation of Kyrie, a pub church that fosters a welcoming environment for worship. To Learn more about Kyrie Pub Church: https://kyriepubchurch.org Topic Timestamps: 00:00 The Role of a Hospice Chaplain 02:52 Understanding Lutheranism and Its Evolution 03:51 Personal Journey and Influence of Family 05:44 Education and Interfaith Studies 08:27 The Intersection of Dance and Theology 11:17 Challenges of Female Clergy in the Church 14:23 Inclusive Language and Gender in Theology 16:56 Motherhood and Its Impact on Ministry 19:11 Curie Pub Church: A New Model of Worship 21:31 The Unique Experience of Pub Church 24:31 The Meaning of Church Beyond Buildings 30:58 The Role of Interdenominational Churches 31:44 Understanding Hospice Chaplaincy 34:58 Conversations with Patients and Caregivers 37:41 Reflections on Life and Death 40:35 Planning for End of Life 42:33 Volunteering in Hospice Care 44:59 Legal Challenges to Religious Freedom 50:10 Pastoral Responses to Religious Legislation 57:39 Interfaith Relations and Community Building

    1h 14m

  8. JAN 20

    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 delves into her experiences with choosing the hijab, her journey as a writer, and her latest book, Shukr, a prayer and gratitude journal for Muslim women that emphasizes the importance of reflection and gratitude in daily life. Gabrielle also discusses the significance of her writing journey, which began with her decision to wear the hijab and how it opened doors for her in the literary world. The episode touches on broader themes of faith, spirituality, and the often complex relationship between religious practices and personal beliefs. Gabrielle's candid reflections on her experiences provide la deeper understanding of the nuances of identity and the power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides. TOPIC TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Gabrielle Dionath 01:54 Exploring Guyanese Heritage and Ancestry 05:38 Language and Identity: The Hindi Connection 08:13 Reflections on Visiting India 11:10 Cultural Connections and the Concept of Home 14:00 Understanding Desi Identity 16:14 The Untold Stories: Insights from 'Untold' Anthology 18:47 Personal Narratives: The Journey of Wearing Hijab 21:58 Religious Identity and Personal Faith 27:46 Body Image and Self-Discovery 34:37 Body Image and Self-Expression 37:53 Modesty and Agency in Hijab 41:39 Navigating High School and Identity 44:40 Religious Tolerance and Community Engagement 49:00 The Journey of Writing Shukr 57:55 Gratitude and Faith in Daily Life 01:07:19 Personal Reflections on Faith and Hijab

    1h 12m
See All (19)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Exploring religion, spirituality, and skepticism through real stories. No debates. No shouting. Just thoughtful conversations about how we find meaning, identity, and connection in a changing world.

Information

  • Creator
    Eli Zaffirini
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Eli Zaffirini