Kinda Religious

The Gen Z Turn to Tradition

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

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

Healthy Relationships & Religion

Eli Zaffirini — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:38:59 GMT

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 Sex Talks - https://www.karengwaltney.com/parent-coaching
Facing Codependence by Pia Melody - https://www.amazon.com/Pia-Melody/e/B001LHF4UO
The 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

Stop Performing, Start Being by Awakening the Self

Eli Zaffirini — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:10:09 GMT

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

Journey from Jehovah’s Witness: Disfellowshipping to Self-Discovery

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT

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

Democratic Community in a Fragmented World

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 11:30:00 GMT

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:

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

Commandments and Classrooms...and so Much More

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT

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

How Heritage and Identity Shape Spirituality

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT

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

The Spirituality of Bird Photography with the Avian Rebbe

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT

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

Kinda Religious Trailer

Eli Zaffirini — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 20:42:40 GMT

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.

An Independent Rabbi Defining His Own Judaism and Finding a More Authentic Connection to God

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

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.com
More 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

Faith and Empire: Cody Robinson on the Indian Methodist Church and Post-Colonial Spirituality

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

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

Christian Nationalism and Masculinity

Eli Zaffirini — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 22:29:16 GMT

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

Building Bridges Between Beliefs

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT

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

Jews and Tattoos

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:01:44 GMT

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 of tattoos in expressing identity, the challenges of guilt in personal growth, and the importance of community in maintaining religious observance. Rabbi Broslawski emphasizes the need for self-acceptance and the idea that one's spiritual journey is a return to their true self.

Read more about Dovid Braslawsce at his website here https://tattoorabbi.com/ and his Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/tattoo_rabbi/

Topic Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Rabbi David Braslawsce

01:15 The Mood in Israel Post-Hostage Release

03:11 Experiences of Being a Visible Jew

05:44 Exploring Spirituality: From Reform Judaism to Buddhism

11:06 The Intersection of Buddhism and Judaism

16:25 Infusing Spirituality into Daily Life

23:12 Choosing Your Truth

25:09 The Nature of Reality

27:07 Science and Faith

28:50 Meditation: Purpose vs. Emptiness

33:23 Tattooing in Judaism: Myths and Meanings

45:57 Exploring Identity Through Tattoos

48:30 Tattoos as Expressions of Love and Memory

52:22 Navigating Religious Practices and Observance

56:16 The Importance of Community in Jewish Life

01:00:40 The Journey of Self-Acceptance and Guilt-Free Living

01:06:10 Outro Final 01 - 10:10:25, 7.07 AM.mp3

Navigating Faith and Politics

Eli Zaffirini — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:30:00 GMT

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.

Topic Timestamps:

00:00 Exploring Arizona

01:42 Life in Seminary: Insights and Experiences

06:33 The Rise of Women in Evangelical Seminary

08:07 Women's Ministry: Challenges and Opportunities

10:03 Navigating Social Media: The Impact on Community

11:53 Balancing Life, Work, and Faith

16:26 Advice for Aspiring Ministers

17:57 Deepening Faith Through Education

23:03 Connecting Scripture: The Unified Story

25:40 Identifying as an Evangelical Christian

27:28 The Social Aspect of Faith

28:52 Diversity in Worship Practices

34:09 Elements of a Meaningful Service

40:28 Transition from Politics to Ministry

44:15 The Evolving Identity of Evangelicals

49:24 Justice and Mercy in Ministry

53:20 The Role of Faith in Politics

56:50 Encouraging Deeper Engagement with Scripture

"Agnostish"

Eli Zaffirini — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 23:15:47 GMT

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.

Topic Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Destiny Herndon de la Rosa

01:59 Defining Spirituality and Religion

07:27 Experiences with Charismatic Christianity

13:01 The Impact of Rapture Beliefs on Childhood

16:53 QAnon and the Legacy of Religious Prophecy Mindset

16:56 The Rise of Prophecy and Its Impact

19:57 Political Influence on Faith and Belief Systems

24:15 Navigating Grief and Spirituality

28:24 The Complexity of Faith and Agnosticism

32:14 The Burden of Belief and the Search for Meaning

34:50 Challenging Binary Perspectives on Faith and Identity

40:53 The Intersection of Pro-Life Activism and Feminism

49:10 Unexpected Generosity: A Fundraising Journey

51:00 Exploring the Role of Mary in Catholicism

54:35 The Complexity of Female Figures in Religion

59:27 The Evolution of the Pro-Life Movement

01:05:41 Community Engagement vs. Political Disengagement
01:12:00 Finding Community Beyond Traditional Structures

Social Justice and Modern Prophetic Christianity

Eli Zaffirini — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 14:56:18 GMT

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.

Kinda Religious

Eli Zaffirini — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 14:53:42 GMT

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.