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. 5d ago

    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 Michael calls “counterfeit intimacy”—as well as his hope that, in a world increasingly filled with artificial voices, people will begin to crave something real. Topic Timestamps: 00:00 The Influence of AI on Human Relationships04:32 The Dangers of Dependence on AI and Technology33:43 The Impact of AI on Writing and Creativity37:19 The Dangers of Counterfeit Relationships41:45 The Role of Faith Leaders in Addressing AI Challenges43:49 The Importance of Human Connection and Authenticity47:47 The Use of AI in Churches and Faith Communities58:06 Navigating AI and Spiritual/Moral Advice01:02:04 The Significance of Knowledge and Love

  2. Jul 21

    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 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@travelwithtparrTaylor on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@travelwithtparrStarkey Hearing Foundation - https://www.starkeyhearingfoundation.org/ Topic Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Taylor Parr and his travel background 02:44 - How healthcare mission work sparked Taylor’s love for travel 06:17 - Traveling with friends and family: first trips and expanding horizons 08:44 - Visiting religious sites: Egypt's Karnak Temple and biblical connections 10:21 - Growing up Lutheran and exploring biblical sites around the world 12:50 - Experiencing the energy of Jerusalem and the Mount of Olives 15:35 - Traveling to conflict zones: Syria and the realities of war-torn environments 19:44 - Visiting destruction in Aleppo and the resilience of its people 25:51 - Visiting mosques in Turkey, Pakistan, and learning about Islamic traditions 33:14 - The impact of documenting travel through YouTube and preserving memories 41:50 - Navigating stereotypes and misconceptions about places like Afghanistan 49:25 - How travel broadens understanding of religion and belief systems 51:42 - Experiences that influence worldview and faith 54:32 - Visiting Turkey's Christian sites and early church history 58:18 - Discovering lesser-known religious sites and symbols around the world 62:23 - Power of seeing joy in unexpected places: Congo orphanage story 66:42 - Connecting with higher power through service and helping others 67:38 - Reflection on gratitude and building love and connections in life 70:13 - Final thoughts: travel as a pathway to spiritual and cultural understanding

  3. Jul 7

    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 - Personal Website: https://caraschulz.com  Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Religious Freedom 02:02 The Impact of Military Codes on Religious Minorities 05:08 The Role of AI in Political Discussions 08:04 Experiences of Being a Minority in the Military 08:08 The Evolution of Religious Recognition in the Military 08:08 The Veteran Pentacle Quest and Its Significance 08:26 Understanding Hellenic Paganism 11:43 Personal Journey to Hellenic Paganism 30:10 Understanding Achilles: Hubris and Community Values 34:53 Pagan Ethics: A Deep Dive into Moral Frameworks 39:06 Misconceptions of Paganism: Distinguishing Between Paganism and Witchcraft 44:09 Respectful Inquiry: Engaging with Pagan Beliefs 50:26 Freedom and Community: The Ongoing Struggle for Religious Acceptance 58:36 Rituals and Reflections: The Spiritual Significance of Monthly Practices

  4. Jun 23

    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  Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): https://behavioraltech.org/what-is-dbt/ Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:19 Exploring Identity and Cultural Judaism 05:02 Dialectical Thinking and Its Applications 07:32 Understanding Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) 10:03 Acceptance and Change in Therapy 12:47 Mindfulness and Eastern Philosophical Influences 15:31 The Nature of Truth and Non-Judgment 18:10 Contradictory Ideas in Judaism 20:11 The Role of Rituals and Structure in Grief 22:41 Contingency Planning and Flexibility in Life 24:54 Conclusion and Reflections on Therapy and Life 35:52 The Power of Grieving and Celebrating Mindfully 36:51 Coping Ahead: Preparing for the Worst 38:01 The Nature of Fear and Anticipation 38:48 Finding Freedom from Anxiety 40:45 The Role of Rituals in Life 42:22 Belief vs. Practice in Spirituality 44:26 Creating Meaning through Actions 45:51 The Importance of Doing 47:32 Hope as a Verb 49:10 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health 55:21 Building a Life Worth Living 01:00:46 The Significance of Rituals and Fire

  5. Jun 9

    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 Physical," a concise spiritual framework for understanding human life, consciousness, and ultimately...love. He is a prolific public speaker who has presented at MANY events on consciousness,  pre-birth memory, out-of-body experience, and spiritual identity. He brings with all this a grounded  background in professional project management, making his work an unusual bridge between technical discipline and  spiritual inquiry.   Resources: Christian’s Website: https://awalkinthephysical.com/welcome/ Christian’s Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Walk-Physical-Understanding-Experience-Spiritual-ebook/dp/B097CHLN7C  Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Exploring Personal Backgrounds in Religion 01:14 The Limitations of Language and Theology 04:13 Understanding the Human Experience 07:21 The Nature of Consciousness and Spirit 10:13 The Unique Journey of the Soul 13:27 Life Before Life: Pre-Birth Experiences 16:09 Out-of-Body Experiences and Their Significance 19:07 The Value of Earthly Existence 30:03 The Weight of Spiritual Growth 32:54 Understanding Pain and Suffering 35:26 The Nature of Trauma 40:36 Grief, Loss, and Connection 47:07 Vibration and Spirituality 53:48 Deconstruction and Awakening 59:36 Collective Consciousness and Healing 01:04:37 Surrender and Trust

  6. May 28

    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/bioTimes of Israel Articles: https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/author/austin-reid/A Code of Jewish Ethics by R. Joseph Telushkin (a book mentioned in this episode): https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/series/B8A/a-code-of-jewish-ethics/ Topic Timestamps: 00:00 Exploring Jewish Presence in Small Town America 02:48 The Importance of Local Media in Community 05:46 Interfaith Collaboration and Community Support 08:47 Positive Narratives in Jewish History 12:06 The Role of Non-Jews in Jewish Life 14:13 Universalism in Jewish Tradition 17:04 Memory and Its Mobility in Jewish Culture 19:27 Personal Journey to Conversion 25:50 The Tension Between Tradition and Innovation 30:27 The Essence of Jewish Identity 33:11 Belonging and Conversion Experiences 37:51 Navigating Community and Connection 40:46 Memory, History, and Civic Responsibility 47:55 The Role of Memory in Jewish Tradition 56:23 Spontaneity in Prayer and Interfaith Connections

  7. May 12

    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

  8. 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

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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
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Eli Zaffirini