Kinda Religious

Eli Zaffirini
  • 5.0 (1)
  • 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. 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

  2. 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

  3. JAN 6

    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. Read more about Aaric here: https://avianrebbe.substack.com/   Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Aaric Eisenstein: The Avian Rebbe 01:17 Exploring Jewish Community and Upbringing 03:06 The Journey into Photography and Birdwatching 06:07 The Technical Aspects of Bird Photography 10:03 The Spiritual Connection to Nature 11:18 The Evolution of Religious Observance 16:49 Nature as Therapy During the Pandemic 20:39 The Impact of COVID-19 on Outdoor Activities 22:45 Birdwatching Expeditions and Discoveries 27:47 Birdwatching Locations in Texas 30:34 Urban Birding: Finding Birds in City Spaces 32:19 The Haunting Call of the Mourning Dove 33:51 Symbolism in Birds: Doves, Ravens, and Personal Reflections 35:19 Favorite Birds: A Personal Connection to Avian Life 35:59 Kosher vs. Non-Kosher Birds: A Cultural Perspective 39:08 Engaging with Faith Communities: Sharing Birding Insights 41:27 Interrupted Walks: The Art of Mindful Birdwatching 43:58 Nature and Spirituality: Bridging the Material and Divine 47:59 Negunim: Wordless Expressions of Awe in Nature 52:13 Birds as Symbols of Freedom and Responsibility 55:46 The Universal Desire to Fly: Cultural Reflections on Flight 57:28 Future Endeavors: Writing, Photography, and Beyond

    1h 2m

  4. 12/23/2025

    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 practices, and the importance of music as a form of spiritual expression. He emphasizes the need for inclusivity and personal freedom in faith, challenging the authority of rabbinic interpretations. Learn more about Rabbi Israel Horowitz at his website: https://israelhorowitz.comMore links and details at www.kindareligious.com Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Journey from Ultra-Orthodox to Torah Observant 05:00 Understanding Yeshiva and Its Impact 11:19 The Role of the Talmud in Jewish Life 14:38 Independent Practice vs. Formal Ordination 22:03 The Value of Rabbinic Judaism 27:29 Cultural Practices and Jewish Identity 30:55 Judaism's Accessibility and Elitism 31:25 Unity vs. Division in Humanity 32:46 The Covenant and Inclusivity 33:43 The Torah's Open Door Policy 34:52 Shabbat Observance and Personal Practice 35:53 Shifting Rituals and Daily Life 39:47 Freedom from Man-Made Rituals 43:31 The Burden of Prescribed Prayer 47:35 Authority and Personal Spiritual Freedom 51:01 Liturgical Postures and Personal Expression 53:39 Music as a Form of Worship 57:32 Blending Music and Spirituality 01:01:27 Exploring Personal Spirituality vs. Institutional Practice 01:01:53 Engagement and Community in Spirituality

    1h 2m

  5. 12/22/2025

    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.

    1 min

  6. 12/09/2025

    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 Christian practices, the impact of colonization on Indigenous beliefs, and the significance of authenticity in spiritual practices. The conversation also touches on cultural appropriation, post-colonial theology, and the future of Native-led spirituality. Learn more about Cody Robinson at his website: themanicscribe.net Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Cody Robinson and His Journey 02:04 The Role of Community in Religion 04:57 The Evolution of Faith and Theocracy 08:03 Historical Context: Indian Boarding Schools 12:11 Cultural Resilience and Spirituality 15:29 The Impact of Manifest Destiny 20:22 Cultural Appropriation and Mythologizing Native Identity 24:42 Incorporating Cherokee Traditions in Worship 32:01 Developing a Distinct Cherokee Theology 40:46 Reconciling History and Faith 41:26 Understanding Historical Context in Indigenous Spirituality 46:38 The Complexities of Tribal Sovereignty 52:07 Exploring Post-Colonial Theology 57:39 The Impact of Identity on Religious Practice 01:03:57 Navigating Spirituality in a Modern Context 01:12:53 Hopes for the Future of Native Spirituality

    1h 15m

  7. 11/23/2025

    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 decline of religiosity in America, the role of social media in shaping religious discourse, and the challenges of authenticity in religious expression. Leigh emphasizes the importance of questioning power structures and finding common ground with neighbors, regardless of political differences. Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Leigh Larson 01:05 Religious Identity and Background 04:41 Experiences with High Church Services 07:47 Masculinity and Religion 10:19 Decline of Religiosity and Young Men 19:09 Military Chaplaincy Experience 29:32 Christian Nationalism in the Military 36:27 Spiritual Care and Healing 37:22 Christianity's Influence on American Identity 40:39 The Complexity of Christian Nationalism 43:34 Prosperity Gospel and Its Implications 48:17 The Role of Social Media in Faith 57:26 Questioning Power and Community Dynamics

    1h 7m

  8. 11/11/2025

    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 community in fostering relationships. Lindsay offers insights on navigating difficult conversations, the impact of social media on discourse, and the necessity of being a good human in all interactions. Lindsey’s Website: https://lindseymedenwaldt.com/ Lindsey’s Book, Bridge Building Apologetics: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Lindsey-Medenwaldt/author/B0CLHJ2BL5?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Topic Timestamps 00:00 Defining Christianity and Personal Faith Journey 05:59 Transitioning from Pentecostal to Reformed Church 09:59 The Role of Apologetics in Faith 13:16 Building Relationships Through Apologetics 17:50 Community Engagement and Neighborly Relations 26:58 Navigating Human Connections 31:33 Bridging Divides Through Understanding 38:54 The Role of Faith in Unity 46:18 Conversations Across Beliefs 51:39 Building Relationships with Courage

    59 min
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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
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Eli Zaffirini
  • Show Website
    Kinda Religious