Curiously Kaitlyn
Kaitlyn Schiess
Do you have questions about theology, the Bible, or the church that you’re too afraid to ask? Tired of pastors and scholars using unfamiliar language or overly complicated explanations? Curiously, Kaitlyn is a weekly podcast hosted by author and theologian Kaitlyn Schiess that tries to make theology accessible, meaningful, and fun. Each week, you’ll hear a kid ask a theology question–sometimes serious, sometimes silly–and Kaitlyn will interview a scholar to help answer it (without all the academic jargon). Together, Kaitlyn and her guest discover that this one simple question opens up big theological ideas that can impact our lives, shape our view of God, and understand Scripture in a new way. Whether you're reminiscing about your own childhood curiosities or simply seeking a refreshing take on faith, tune in and rediscover the joy of learning with "Curiously Kaitlyn.”
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 16, 2025 • 21min
Did Jesus get sick?
What if Jesus did get sick? This thought-provoking discussion unravels the mystery of Jesus's full humanity and considers the implications of illness in his life. Could sin and sickness be intertwined? The hosts explore the tough theological questions surrounding suffering and sinlessness. They also touch on how these ideas impact our understanding of faith and empathy in human experiences. Plus, a fun take on how to explain these concepts to kids makes the conversation both enlightening and entertaining!
18 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 35min
Why did God make everything but people made sidewalks?
The podcast dives into an intriguing question: why did humans create sidewalks if God made everything? It explores the relationship between divine creation and human innovation. Sidewalks become symbols of community and creativity, highlighting how human efforts complement God’s design. The discussion touches on the theological implications of creation and emphasizes the significance of shared spaces. It also presents a vision of eternity as a thriving community, reinforcing the joy of deep connections and the role of redemption.
18 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 38min
Where is the Garden of Eden? Plus Other Mailbag Questions!
Mike Strelow, a producer known for his work in faith-based media, joins Kaitlyn to explore intriguing questions from kids about God and the Bible. They tackle whether smart animals can be Christians and discuss the implications of original sin. Listeners will be fascinated by the discussion on why humanity no longer has access to the Garden of Eden and the true nature of the serpent in Genesis. Plus, they reflect on Jesus' notion of calling adults 'little children,' emphasizing the importance of humility in faith.
8 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 33min
Why does God make sad things when he's sad about them?
Dr. Barry Jones, a theologian and senior pastor of Irving Bible Church, joins Kaitlyn to explore the complex relationship between divine grief and human suffering. He discusses why God allows sadness and suffering, emphasizing that God's own grief can bring comfort to us. The pair delve into biblical narratives, including Jesus weeping at Lazarus' tomb, illustrating God's deep empathy. They also encourage embracing tough questions about faith while trusting in God's goodness amidst life's challenges.
20 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 36min
Why do we call each other brothers and sisters?
Dr. Christa McKirland, a systematic theology lecturer and author from New Zealand, dives into the idea of calling each other brothers and sisters within the church. She discusses the spiritual siblinghood that emerges from baptism, reimagining our Christian community as a supportive family. The conversation explores how personal family dynamics shape our understanding of faith relationships and why these connections matter. Christa emphasizes the importance of commitment and mutual accountability in this spiritual family, making a compelling case for egalitarian bonds over hierarchical structures.
11 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 28min
Why doesn’t God answer my prayers?
Dr. Mika Edmondson, a theologian and lead pastor at Koinonia Church, joins the conversation to explore the pressing question of unanswered prayers. He breaks down what prayer means and the varied responses God may provide, often for our greater good. The discussion also touches on the emotional turmoil of feeling unheard, drawing parallels to Jesus's own suffering. Edmondson emphasizes honest communication with God as a path through disappointment, encouraging listeners to maintain faith even when answers seem distant.
22 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 32min
The Case Against Bible Reading Plans
In this enlightening discussion, Skye Jethani, an author and co-host of The Holy Post podcast, dives into the complexities of Bible reading plans. He questions whether these plans enhance our understanding or simply serve as a checklist. Skye explores the historical evolution of these methods, revealing their impact on biblical engagement. He critiques the modern approach, stressing the need for deeper, more immersive reading. His insights challenge listeners to rethink how they connect with scripture, moving beyond rigid structures towards a more meaningful spiritual journey.
7 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 22min
Does God still love dictators?
The podcast tackles the provocative question of whether God's love embraces dictators. It explores the complex relationship between divine authority and human governance, emphasizing how the fall has distorted rightful leadership. A discussion on accountability reveals the need for compassion even in the face of wrongdoing. Personal anecdotes and insights from scripture paint a nuanced picture of love in challenging contexts. Ultimately, listeners are invited to reflect on the moral responsibilities that accompany power and authority.
5 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 31min
What is the most accurate version of the Bible?
Kaitlyn speaks with Amy Peeler, a New Testament scholar and Bible translation committee member. They tackle the fascinating complexities of Bible translations, discussing why they vary and how context shapes understanding. Amy emphasizes the collaborative nature of translation, highlighting the importance of connecting with scripture personally. They also provide tips for selecting a translation that resonates with individuals and explore how to explain biblical stories to children, making scripture accessible and engaging for the younger audience.
4 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 38min
Why did God harden Pharaoh's heart?
Carmen Imes, an Associate Professor of Old Testament at Biola University and an accomplished scholar, discusses the profound question of why God hardened Pharaoh’s heart. She breaks down the theological tension between divine sovereignty and free will, offering insights into the metaphorical meanings of hard-heartedness. Imes also explores the humorous yet poignant narrative of the plagues in Egypt, emphasizing that these aren't just punishments but divine messages meant for reflection. Her explanations invite a deeper understanding of God’s nature and the complexities of morality.
