Soul Boom

Faith After Doubt: Can Religion Evolve? (w/ Brian McLaren)

Feb 18, 2025

Brian McLaren, an influential author known for exploring faith in modern times, joins Rainn Wilson to discuss the crisis of faith many experience today. They dive into the psychological impacts of religious trauma and the struggle with rigid dogma in organized religion. The conversation tackles how evolving doubt can lead to richer spiritual understanding and highlights the impact of fundamentalist beliefs on climate change and capitalism. Finally, McLaren shares his personal journey towards a broader love-driven spirituality, emphasizing compassion and interconnectedness.

01:17:08

Episode guests

Brian McLaren

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Religious trauma often leads individuals to feel alienated from their upbringing, challenging their ability to reconcile personal beliefs with family expectations.

The journey of spiritual development progresses through stages that transition from simplistic dualism to a compassionate understanding of life's complexities.

Genuine spirituality reflects values through action, emphasizing the importance of addressing societal and environmental challenges over profit-driven motives.

Deep dives

The Impact of Religious Trauma

Religious trauma is a significant issue affecting many individuals, often rooted in negative experiences associated with family and faith. People can become alienated from their religious upbringing, particularly when their beliefs evolve or diverge from traditional dogma. For many, the pain of being ostracized for their beliefs, or for coming out as LGBTQ, can lead to a rejection of spirituality altogether. This trauma is exacerbated by cultural and political affiliations, making it difficult for individuals to find reconciliation between their personal beliefs and familial expectations.

Intro

2min

Navigating Religious Trauma and Personal Growth

16min

Exploring Futures After Collapse: Perspectives on Climate Change

3min

Navigating Humanity's Future: Myths and Realities

8min

Hope, Action, and the End Times

17min

Journey to Cosmic Love and Interconnectedness

17min

Interpreting the Bible: Between Literal and Metaphorical

7min

Exploring Creation Narratives and Modern Interpretations of Scripture

3min

What happens when your faith no longer makes sense? Brian McLaren, author of Faith After Doubt and Life After Doom, joins Rainn Wilson for a deep dive into the personal and societal crises of faith that many are facing today. They explore the psychological impact of religious trauma, why so many struggle with the rigid dogma of organized religion, and how doubt can actually lead to a more profound, harmonious spirituality. The conversation also tackles the intersection of fundamentalist theology, climate change, and capitalism—unpacking how our deepest beliefs shape the world we live in.

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