Soul Boom

In this engaging conversation, Danny Rensch, a chess master and key figure in the online chess world, shares his powerful journey from growing up in the Church of Immortal Consciousness to building Chess.com. He candidly discusses the challenges of escaping a cult, the painful separation from his mother, and his path to healing. Danny also explores the resilience required to overcome spiritual manipulation and the importance of forgiveness in rebuilding life’s meaning after trauma.

Comedian Lil Rel Howery, known for his breakout role in 'Get Out,' opens up about overcoming grief and panic attacks following his mother's death. He shares a prophetic vision that foreshadowed his success and discusses how the Black church shaped his spiritual journey. Lil Rel emphasizes the healing power of stand-up comedy, likening it to medicine. The conversation also touches on the cultural impact of 'Get Out' and the need for comedy to be taken as seriously as drama in the entertainment industry.

Ryan Holiday, a prominent author known for his insights into Stoicism, joins Rainn Wilson to delve into the intersection of Stoicism and spirituality. They discuss how ancient practices provide modern solutions for anxiety and purpose. Highlighting themes of resilience and personal growth, they explore the transformative journey toward deeper virtues. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of journaling, radical acceptance, and the relevance of Stoicism in today’s complex world, making ancient wisdom accessible for younger generations.

Sri M, a Himalayan spiritual teacher and social reformer, dives deep into the realms of consciousness and the soul with Rainn Wilson. They discuss the connection between spirituality and service, emphasizing love and peace as core values across all traditions. Sri M reflects on the dilution of original spiritual experiences in organized religion and shares personal stories of transformation. He advocates for integrating spirituality into daily life while navigating modern challenges, promoting kindness and the importance of community in fostering mental well-being.

Adam Grant, a NYT bestselling author and organizational psychologist, dives deep into the myths surrounding confidence. He discusses how failure and perfectionism can mislead our perception of self-worth and emphasizes that passion isn’t something to find but rather to cultivate. Grant also reflects on generational shifts in mental health views and workplace expectations. Highlighting the power of reframing narratives, he encourages a more authentic approach to life, revealing that true motivation may come from a surprising source—serving others.

Victoria Hutchins, a former lawyer turned poet and yoga teacher, shares her journey of religious deconstruction and finding joy in everyday life. She discusses overcoming anxiety and burnout through the transformative power of poetry and yoga. Victoria reads her poignant poems and reflects on the interplay of pain and joy, exploring how social media has shaped modern spirituality. She emphasizes the importance of childlike wonder and small joys while navigating a spiritual crisis, revealing insights on faith and personal growth.

Ed Helms, actor and comedian from The Office and The Hangover, discusses the nuances of memory and living in the moment. He reflects on the emotional impact of a single line from The Office finale and shares his ADHD diagnosis and journey with therapy. The conversation also touches on the pitfalls of social media, the importance of vulnerability, and the healing power of self-compassion. Ed reveals insights from his new book and podcast, SNAFU, exploring historical screw-ups and how they mirror personal growth.

Join Britt Hartley, author of *No Nonsense Spirituality*, as she shares her journey from devout Mormonism to mystic atheism. Dive into the emotional complexities of losing faith and the search for meaning in a post-religious world. Britt reflects on religious deconstruction, the challenge of navigating identity, and the profound struggles of nihilism. Discover how she finds purpose through storytelling and spirituality, advocating for ethical living beyond traditional dogmas while exploring the transformative power of community.

Casey Neistat, a groundbreaking YouTube creator and filmmaker, joins Rainn Wilson to discuss the murky waters of social media algorithms and their impact on mental health. They explore the transformative power of parenthood and how it reshapes priorities, emphasizing empathy in creativity. Neistat critiques the media's profit-driven sensationalism and shares his journey balancing artistic integrity with the demand for engaging content. The conversation dives into authenticity, fame, and the struggle for validation in a digital age.

Comedian Pete Holmes joins Rainn Wilson for a lively exploration of spirituality. He shares insights on God, ego, and the transformative power of psychedelics. The duo discusses the parable of the Prodigal Son, revealing its ties to self-worth and creative identity. They reflect on how comedy can unlock profound truths and blend laughter with life's deeper meanings. Pete's early jokes and personal anecdotes showcase the intersection of humor and sacred insight, making for a captivating conversation.