Soul Boom
Soul Boom is a series of intimate conversations hosted by Rainn Wilson exploring meaningful and inspiring topics that tickle the mind, heart and soul. Never too precious, yet unafraid to touch on the profound, we digs into the core of the human experience: creativity, spirituality and psychology. Bringing to the conversation some of the most brilliant and heart-felt artists, thinkers and doers, Soul Boom guides the listener toward transformation on both a personal and societal level. Also, laughs.
Episodes
What Does Death Actually Feel Like?
What does death feel like? Near-death experiencers Vinney Tolman & Betty Guadagno reveal what they saw during their NDEs. From a body bag and overdose to heaven, life reviews, and unconditional love, their stories redefine life after death. What if death teaches us how to live?
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'Pluribus' Star Jeff Hiller's Life Before Emmy Nominations (BONUS!)
Pluribus and Widow's Bay star Jeff Hiller and Rainn Wilson shares hilarious acting disasters, revisit the terrible jobs that kept acting dreams alive, and reveal why small victories stopped him from giving up. He also opens up about emotional eating, depression, therapy, and learning to recognize what lies beneath our cravings. Plus, Rainn shares the night he was tipped in cocaine.
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Jeff Hiller Explains Queer Faith & Redefines Religion
Emmy-winning Somebody Somewhere & Widow's Bay star Jeff Hiller unpacks queer faith, growing up gay in Texas, and his 20-year trail to overnight success. He reveals why community became his church and how rejection forged compassion.
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Israeli & Palestinian on Genocide, War in Iran & Gaza
Digging deep into Israel-Palestine conflict w/ Israeli Maoz Inon & Palestinian Aziz Abu Sarah, life after October 7th & Gaza and transforming grief into reconciliation. Is peace still possible? We dig deep into faith, trauma, justice, dignity, and the spiritual courage to imagine a future beyond war.
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America, It Is Your Birthday. (Now Grow Up.)
Happy Independence Day! On America's 250th anniversary, we're joined by Arthur Brooks, Dr. Vivek Murthy, Amanda Ripley, and Derek Smith to confront the country's crisis of loneliness, meaning, and political division. Together, they ask whether love, service, and spiritual renewal can heal the country. What must America outgrow before its next 250 years?
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Oscar Nunez Gets REAL About 'The Office', 'The Paper' & God
Oscar Nuñez (The Office, The Paper) celebrates our 100th episode digging deep into The Office, The Paper, and organized religion. He & Rainn reflect on their time on the show and look back at their favorite scenes, bloopers & moments with Steve Carell, Ed Helms, Angela & more. Oscar also opens up about his gay father, Catholic upbringing, immigration, and organized religion.
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Pete Holmes' Obsession w/ Hell (BONUS!)
BONUS! Comedian Pete Holmes reveals why he became obsessed with hell and how the idea of eternal punishment forced him to question the version of Christianity he had inherited. He traces his journey from viewing God as a terrifying judge to discovering Joseph Campbell, Ram Dass, non-duality, and a radically different understanding of consciousness. Pete also shares his unforgettable Harry Potter a
Why Pete Holmes Stopped Looking for God
Comedian Pete Holmes (Silly Silly Fun Boy, Crashing) returns to dig deep into Christianity, non-duality, consciousness, and what it means to find God after your faith falls apart. He opens up about divorce, depression, anxiety, sexual shame, and how the comedy community that inspired Crashing carried him through one of the lowest periods of his life. They also explore why “everything belongs,” how
The Collapse of Christianity by David Bentley Hart (BONUS!)
Philosopher and theologian David Bentley Hart explains why Christianity must abandon political power, cultural domination and the mythology of “Christian civilization” to rediscover the radical compassion of Christ. He challenges common interpretations of Paul, faith and salvation before exploring Christology, divine manifestation and what it truly means to say that God became human. They also div
Let's Go To Hell w/ David Bentley Hart
A deep dive into hell, God, suffering, scripture, and why so many modern ideas about Christianity may be based on bad translation, bad theology, and political power. Philosopher and theologian David Bentley Hart challenges the idea of eternal damnation, explores universal salvation, and reframes God not as an angry ruler in the sky, but as infinite love, consciousness, beauty, and being itself. Wh
Earth's Most Misunderstood Countries (w/ Drew Binsky)
Drew Binsky has visited every country in the world, but what did all that travel actually teach him about people, fear, poverty, faith, and the soul? We dig into Haiti, Iran, Afghanistan, China, the countries Americans ignore, and the surprising truth that people everywhere want the same basic things: love, family, safety, dignity, and connection. This is a conversation about misunderstood culture
Nobody Cares About Climate Change
Christiana Figueres joins Rainn Wilson to dig deep into fossil fuels, climate change, eco anxiety, spirituality, self-love, and what it really means to become “stubbornly optimistic” in a collapsing world. From the Paris Climate Agreement to her own battle with suicidal thoughts, Christiana unpacks the connection between personal healing and planetary healing, and why humanity’s future depends on
Why We Make Ourselves Suffer: Breaking Addiction Down
Why do we keep feeding the habits, thoughts, and emotions that make us suffer? Eric Zimmer explores addiction, anxiety, depression, radical acceptance, Zen Buddhism, mindfulness, emotional healing, and the hidden psychology behind self-destruction. He explains the “good wolf vs bad wolf,” letting go of control, rewiring negative thought patterns, and finding inner peace through small daily choices
Gen Z Unpacks Toxic Internet Culture
Philosophical and optimistic creators of We Love You, Andy Min and Thomas Sullivan, join us for a deep conversation about friendship, existential anxiety, loneliness, nature, spirituality, and what it means to stay hopeful online. We unpack Gen Z culture, the pressure of "aura," the mental health impact of social media, and why human connection may be the antidote to modern isolation. We also get
Why 'God' Is Not What You Think (And Neither Are You) | André Duqum
Andre Duqum (Know Thyself) joins us to unpack if everything you’re experiencing right now is happening inside your own mind. We explore consciousness, simulation theory, and the idea that separation is an illusion shaping human suffering. Let's unpack integrity, awareness, and how transforming your inner world may be the key to healing the chaos we see outside.
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BJ Novak Outsmarts Rainn (Again)
B.J. Novak (The Devil Wears Prada 2, The Office) gets deeply reflective about fame, anxiety, and the hidden cost of success. From behind-the-scenes stories of The Office to honest reflections on regret, scarcity mindset, and spiritual growth.
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Unpacking "Drugs" (w/ Pete Holmes, Ari Shaffir, Neal Brennan, Dr Joe & More)
Are psychedelics & mind-altering substances like ayahuasca, DMT, psilocybin and ketamine a path to healing and spiritual awakening? Or a dangerous shortcut to enlightenment? Let's look back on how Neal Brennan, Pete Holmes, Reggie Watts, Josh Radnor, Arthur Brooks, and Dr. Joe Dispenza debate the benefits, risks, and meaning behind psychedelic experiences, from ego death to divine connection. We
Andy Grammer's Spiritual Muse: The Sacred Side of Songwriting
Musician Andy Grammer joins us to explore the spiritual practice of songwriting, the roots of creativity, and how serving others through art can transform both the artist and the audience. From busking on the streets for four years to writing global hits like Keep Your Head Up, Andy shares the surprising moments of failure, faith, and inspiration that shaped his journey.
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Reflecting w/ Bobby Lee, Trisha Paytas, Rick Glassman, Ed Helms, Angela Kinsey + More!
Celebrating 2 years of Soul Boom with favorite guests Alex O'Connor, Dr. Lisa Miller, Rick Glassman, Britt Hartley, Sara Kuburic, Trisha Paytas, Bobby Lee, Jeff Kober, Dr. Joe Dispenza, Ed Helms + Angela Kinsey.
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Arthur Brooks & Rainn Escape the Matrix & Find the Meaning of Life
Why does modern life feel emptier than ever, even with more technology, comfort, and success than any generation before us? Arthur Brooks (behavioral scientist, bestselling author) joins us to explore the growing meaning crisis, the neuroscience of purpose, and why our phones may be quietly rewiring our brains away from happiness.
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How I Met Your Maker w/ Josh Radnor
Actor Josh Radnor (How I Met Your Mother) unpacks the deeper spiritual questions that fame, success, and storytelling can’t answer.
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The Secret to a Meaningful Life (w/ Bill Burnett & Dave Evans)
Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, co-authors of Designing Your Life, join us to unpack why so many people are feeling stuck, why the search for one perfect passion can be misleading, and how radical acceptance, reframing, and small moments of meaning can transform the human experience.
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Life Lessons for Gen Z & Millennials (w/ Chip Conley)
Why do we feel so anxious & alone in the modern world? Chip Conley unpacks how wisdom, meaning, and emotional insight can transform suffering into growth.
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Rainn Gets Roasted by Zach Anner
Comedian Zach Anner opens up about growing up with cerebral palsy, using comedy to build connection, and navigating panic attacks, loneliness, and the pressure to feel “normal.” He and Rainn reflect on their work together at SoulPancake and explore gratitude, prayer, accessibility, grief, and why love might be the entire point of being here.
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Proving God's Existence With Science (w/ Dave Desteno)
Is God real, and can science ever prove it? Psychologist Dave DeSteno joins us to unpack why the “Does God exist?” debate might miss the point, and what research actually shows about prayer, meditation, gratitude, forgiveness, and religious community.
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Toxic Politics: America’s NEW Pandemic (w/ Mustafa Santiago Ali)
What if environmental justice is not just policy, but a spiritual responsibility? Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali breaks down how toxic pollution, redlining, and disinvestment created unequal health and wealth outcomes and why grassroots community power is the only path from surviving to thriving. From PFAS and public health to the dismantling of EPA science and the sacredness of nature, this conversatio
Gaza, Grief and Growth: Mo Amer on Palestine & Faith
Palestinian-American comedian Mo Amer (Mo on Netflix) shares his family’s story through war, displacement, and survival, and speaks candidly about Gaza, generational trauma, and why real dialogue matters more than ever. From the spiritual discipline of patience to the role of comedy in carrying sorrow, this episode is a reminder that hope is not passive, it is practiced.
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Does Manifesting Change God's Plan? (w/ Edwina Findley)
Let's unpack the most sacred questions of the human experience: how do
you know when guidance is divine, and when it’s just desire, fear, or
ego? Edwina Findley unravels manifesting vs. God’s plan, the difference
between “my dream” and a true calling, and why service, struggle, and
waiting seasons may matter more than vision boards. From miraculous
signs and prophetic moments to doubt, discip
Why Do I Overthink EVERYTHING? Re-Wiring Our Brains w/ Maya Shankar
Change rarely asks permission. Cognitive scientist Maya Shankar joins to unpack why we cling to certainty, how rumination traps us in mental spirals, and what it actually takes to build a self that can survive life’s curveballs. From identity loss and grief to moral beauty, compassion, and the psychology of “default options,” this conversation blends neuroscience, philosophy, and spiritual wisdom
Who Should Run the Government? (Reggie Watts Pt. 2)
AI, power trips, and what comes after late stage capitalism. Comedian Reggie Watts joins us to unpack how billionaires are trying to control the systems they built, why government is not a business, and how community and joy can outlast fear and shock tactics. We also debate psychedelics and ketamine, including the difference between sacred practice and shortcut culture, and how altered states can
Simulation Theory, A.I. Takeover and Dungeons & Dragons (w/ Reggie Watts)
Reggie Watts (comedian, musician) joins us to unpack simulation theory, psychedelics, AI, and Eastern mysticism. He and Rainn cover everything from Seattle's underground art scene to how John Hughes movies and existentialism shaped them.
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Can Dr. Amen's Brain Scans Predict Depression, Anxiety and Addiction?
Dr. Daniel Amen (brain health expert, psychiatrist and physician) wants to reframe “mental health” as brain health, and explain how brain imaging can reveal patterns behind depression, anxiety, addiction, and even chronic pain. They unpack automatic negative thoughts, negativity bias, and simple daily “tiny habits” that can reshape your brain and your life. Plus, Dr. Amen connects science with mea
R&B Singer Miguel on Ego, Resentment & Hip-Hop Culture
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What Happens When We Die? (w/ Hospice Nurse Julie)
Hospice Nurse Julie sits down with Rainn to completely re-frame how we think about death, dying and what might come next. From the biology of how the body peacefully shuts down to mystical deathbed visions, guardian angel stories and “miracle pancakes,” she shares raw, hopeful and surprisingly funny lessons from years at the bedside. They dive into addiction, spirituality, fear, atheism, pets show
Petey USA Finds God In The Gray
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How to Humanize Your Enemies (w/ Valarie Kaur)
How can we humanize our political "opponents" and stop viewing the world as "them vs. us?" Revolutionary love in practice. Valarie Kaur returns to unpack how we can transform grief into courageous action, and build a bigger we that resists dehumanization while defending democracy. We walk through tools like wonder, grief, listening across difference, and experiments with love on the frontlines and
Spiritual Tools That ACTUALLY Work (w/ Shabnam Mogharabi)
Shabnam Mogharabi (co-author of the Soul Boom Workbook: Spiritual Tools for Modern Living, co-founder of SoulPancake) joins Rainn to unpack
their new book and explore awe, beauty, and gratitude, through practical “tools for turbulent times” that scale from the self to community. Shabnam also shares her vulnerable story about suffering, intuition, and why noticing” small needs can spark real chang
Roy Wood Jr. Solves Racism
Comedian Roy Wood, Jr. (The Daily Show) joins Rainn to explore the fractures in American society, from racism and political division to technology, capitalism, and the myth of unity. Roy reflects on his upbringing in Birmingham, the lessons in resilience and hustle that shaped his path, and why he believes comedy is a spiritual tool for truth-telling. Can America find healing, or is division our d
Mark Ruffalo Takes Faith to Task (Pt. 2)
Part 2! Mark Ruffalo joins us again to talk about marriage as "soul
work," raising artists, healing family trauma, and why vulnerability
might be the bravest thing a man can practice. He opens up about his
father’s Baha’i journey, the sweetness of those early firesides,
Standing Rock, and the Lakota lessons that reshaped his activism and
hope.
Mark Ruffalo is an Oscar-nominated actor, produ
Yung Pueblo and the Revolution Within
Yung Pueblo (Diego Perez) explore how inner transformation creates outer change. He and Rainn discuss impermanence, self-love, meditation, and why cultivating inner peace is essential to addressing today’s mental health crisis and global challenges. Yung Pueblo also shares his journey through silent meditation retreats, his new book How to Love Better, and the radical idea that healing ourselves i
Mark Ruffalo on the Future of Humanity (Pt. 1)
Mark Ruffalo (AppleTV's Task, Marvel's Avengers) explores how America can find compassion in divided times, the dangers of political violence, and why activism must be rooted in empathy. Ruffalo reflects on losing his brother to gun violence, the climate crisis, and his journey with The Solutions Project, which uplifts frontline communities fighting for change. Together, they ask: how do we move b
Eat, Pray, Toxic Love Addict w/ Elizabeth Gilbert
Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love author) opens up about love, addiction, grief, and spiritual growth. She opens up about her relationship with Raya, the painful lessons of codependency, and why heartbreak can feel as devastating as substance abuse. Together, they explore life as “Earth School,” the healing power of unconditional love, and why telling the truth is often the only way out of life’s
Escaping a Cult (w/ Chess Master Danny Rensch)
Danny Rensch stopped being a pawn in his family's cult and broke free to
rebuild his life and found Chess.com. He and Rainn unpack what life is
like growing up in a cult, the painful process of leaving, and the long
journey of healing and reconnecting with his mother. Together they
explore resilience, forgiveness, and how meaning can be rebuilt after
spiritual manipulation and control.
THA
God Told Lil Rel to 'Get Out'
Comedian Lil Rel Howery (Code 3) joins Rainn to unpack how he got out of grief, panic attacks, and an extremely dark season after the death of his mother. He shares the wild prophecy that named his breakout roles years before they happened, why the Black church shaped his soul and service, and how stand-up became his medicine. They swap stories on Code 3, Get Out, The Carmichael Show, The Office a
The Daily Stoic's Guide to Spirituality (w/ Ryan Holiday)
Ryan Holiday (The Daily Stoic) joins Rainn Wilson to connect Stoicism’s
deepest roots to spirituality, from the Logos and justice to the common
good and service. They explore how ancient practice becomes modern
medicine for anxiety, purpose, and resilience, and why journaling and
radical acceptance still work.
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Finding God Within: Sri M Explores Consciousness
Sri M, Himalayan spiritual teacher and social reformer, joins Rainn Wilson to explore the mysteries of consciousness, the soul, and the universal search for meaning. Together they discuss how spirituality is inseparable from service, why love and peace lie at the heart of all traditions, and how to live a spiritual life while fully engaged in the modern world.
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Adam Grant Breaks the Confidence Myth
Adam Grant (NYT bestselling author of Think Again and organizational psychologist at Wharton) joins us to unpack why everything we believe about confidence might be backward. From navigating failure and perfectionism to learning how to detach worth from work, Adam explores why passion isn’t something you “find,” how spirituality intersects with identity, and how reframing narratives can lead to a
Finding God in a Panic Attack w/ Victoria Hutchins
When a high-achieving lawyer suddenly drops her corporate life for
poetry and yoga, her words manage to reach millions online. Victoria Hutchins explores religious deconstruction, what it means to “make believe” in God again, and the soul-saving power of small joys. Victoria reads several of her most powerful poems and shares practical wisdom for those navigating anxiety, burnout, or existential
Ed Helms and the Good Old Days
Ed Helms, (The Office, The Hangover) digs into memory, identity, and what it means to truly live in the moment. The two reflect on their years together on The Office, the unexpected emotional impact of a single line from the show's finale, and how chasing success nearly kept them from appreciating the present. Ed opens up about his ADHD diagnosis, his evolving relationship with therapy, and how se
Spiritual Atheism & Religious Deconstruction (w/ Britt Hartley)
If belief dies, can wonder survive? Britt Hartley (author of No Nonsense
Spirituality) digs into her journey from devout Mormonism to mystic
atheism, her deconstruction of religious dogma, and her experience of
profound nihilism after losing belief in God.
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Casey Neistat: The Art of the Algorithm
Casey Neistat (YouTube creator, filmmaker, entrepreneur) joins Rainn
Wilson to dive into the dangers of social media algorithms, the role of
empathy in art, and how fatherhood reshaped Casey’s purpose.
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LIVE with Pete Holmes!
Comedian Pete Holmes (I Am Not For Everyone) joins Rainn Wilson LIVE to dive into the nature of God, spiritual awakening through psychedelics, and why ego isn’t the enemy...it might even be divine. They unpack the parable of the Prodigal Son, discuss mystical consciousness and atheism, and reflect on comedy’s role in revealing truth. Plus, Pete shares early jokes, voice memo rage, and his unique w
Terry Crews Breaks the Shame Cycle
Terry Crews (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, White Chicks) opens up about addiction, masculinity, faith, and healing. He shares his journey through addiction, religious trauma, and the deep inner work required to rebuild his life and marriage. He shares how recovery helped him rediscover his soul, his artistry, and his definition of love and how public accountability set him free.
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Mike Birbiglia Redefines The Good Life
Comedian Mike Birbiglia (The Good Life on Netflix) opens up about
navigating his father’s stroke, his daughter’s spiritual education, and
how meeting the Pope shaped his artistry. Along the way, Mike explores
mental‑health honesty, delusional optimism in auditions, and why he
believes live storytelling is almost sacred.
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Does Happiness Last? Kelly Corrigan Wonders
Kelly Corrigan (NYT bestselling author, PBS host) joins Rainn Wilson for
an illuminating conversation on fear, moods, creativity, and the wisdom
found in wonder. Kelly shares her experience with cancer, raising
daughters, her evolving beliefs about God, and how staying in someone’s
home reveals more about life than any philosophy book.
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Questlove's Secret to a Spiritual Awakening
Questlove (The Roots, Summer of Soul) joins Soul Boom for a deep and vulnerable conversation about creativity, trauma, spirituality, and self-reinvention. He opens up about his struggles with imposter syndrome, the weight of generational trauma, and how the pandemic forced him to rebuild his internal life through breathwork, affirmations, and metaphysical practice. Rainn and Questlove explore the
Is God Real If Suffering Exists? Gary Gulman Explores
Gary Gulman (HBO's The Great Depresh, Netflix’s Stand Up for Drummers) joins Rainn Wilson for a vulnerable, hilarious, and soul-searching conversation on faith, depression, and the strange beauty of being alive. From the darkest seasons of mental illness to his life-changing experience with electroconvulsive therapy, Gary opens up about what saved him, and how he still struggles with questions abo
Existentialism for the Modern Soul w/ Millennial Therapist Sara Kuburic
What if you’re not meant to find yourself, but to create yourself? In
this Soul Boom episode, existential psychotherapist and bestselling
author Sara Kuburic (It’s On Me) joins Rainn Wilson for a deep conversation about identity, self-loss, and the illusion of authenticity in the digital age. After diagnosing what makes The Office's Dwight Schrute so...unique, "The Millennial Therapist" (as she'
Steve from Blue's Clues Sits Down in Our Thinking Chair
Steve Burns (original host of Blue’s Clues, musician and writer) joins Rainn Wilson to unpack the surprising emotional and spiritual journey behind one of the most iconic figures in children’s TV. Steve opens up about facing depression at the peak of his fame, the haunting internet rumor that he had died, and the healing power of solitude, music, and deep listening. He discusses what it means to l
How Can We Trust the News Again? (w/ Stephanie Ruhle)
Stephanie Ruhle (MSNBC anchor, host of The 11th Hour) joins Rainn Wilson for a raw, timely conversation on media distrust, social responsibility, and the power of human connection. From her journey on Wall Street to her pivot into journalism, Stephanie brings unique insight into how power, money, and narrative collide.
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Inside Serena Williams' Mind (w/ Patrick Mouratoglou)
Let's explore the mindset behind greatness. Patrick Mouratoglou is a world-famous tennish coach, known for his work with Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka. opens up about his childhood struggles with anxiety and how small daily victories led him to become one of the most sought-after coaches in sports. He reveals what it really took to help Serena Williams rediscover her fire, and why confidence isn
Am I Lonely or Spiritually Disconnected? (w/ Radha Agrawal)
What if the cure for our loneliness epidemic isn’t more screen time—but sacred dance floors, radical service, and remembering our ancestors? In this deep and energizing Soul Boom episode, Rainn Wilson sits down with Radha Agrawal, founder of Daybreaker and the Belong Center, to explore how ancient wisdom, intergenerational gatherings, and collective joy can rebuild our fractured world.
This episo
Hasan Minhaj: Does Comedy Matter if the World is on Fire?
Hasan Minhaj (Off With His Head, The Patriot Act, Homecoming King) joins Rainn Wilson for a vulnerable and inspiring dive into the purpose of comedy, the search for meaning, and the power of storytelling. They explore Hasan's spiritual upbringing, his journey through stand-up and fame, and how his faith and Indian-American identity have shaped his worldview. From reflections on Ramadan to insights
Is Climate Change a Spiritual Crisis? (w/ Paul Hawken)
What if climate change isn’t just an environmental or economic issue, but a spiritual one? In this eye-opening conversation, Rainn Wilson and environmentalist Paul Hawken dive into the philosophy of regeneration—a revolutionary approach to healing the planet while revitalizing our sense of meaning and purpose. Paul explains why fear-based activism is failing, how indigenous wisdom offers a roadmap
How Spirituality Can Save Us from Global Chaos (w/ Payam Akhavan)
World peace isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable. But will we get there through collective vision or after unimaginable catastrophes? Renowned human rights lawyer and former UN prosecutor Payam Akhavan joins us on Soul Boom to discuss the forces pulling the world apart, and those bringing us together. They dive deep into the existential crises of our time: climate change, rising nationalism, econom
Rainn Tries Getting Rhett & Link Back in Church: Exploring Spiritual Deconstruction
What happens when two lifelong best friends and former evangelical missionaries begin questioning everything they once believed? In this deeply personal episode, Rhett & Link (Good Mythical Morning, Wonderhole, Ear Biscuits) down with Rainn Wilson to discuss their spiritual deconstruction, their struggles with judgment, and how their perspectives on faith, God, and love have evolved. They dive int
Faith After Doubt: Can Religion Evolve? (w/ Brian McLaren)
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
Do Jews Believe in Souls? Ari Shaffir’s Crisis of Faith
Comedian Ari Shaffir (America's Sweetheart, JEW) joins Rainn Wilson for an unfiltered conversation about faith, comedy, and mental health. Known for his no-holds-barred stand-up, Ari shares his journey from being an Orthodox Jewish yeshiva student to an outspoken atheist. They dive into his personal battle with depression, how psychedelics shifted his perspective on existence, and why he believes
Is Society Losing Its Soul? Nadia Bolz-Weber on Faith, Outrage, and Redemption
Lutheran pastor and best-selling author Nadia Bolz-Weber joins Rainn Wilson to discuss why modern life feels so disconnected and overwhelming. They explore the paradoxes of faith, the crisis of community in America, and how the pursuit of comfort and convenience might be eroding our humanity. Nadia shares her radical insights on grace, forgiveness, and why she still believes in organized religion
Alex O'Connor Explores the Mysteries of God
Alex O’Connor ( @CosmicSkeptic ), known for his nuanced critiques of religion and discussions on morality, reflects on why the Bible captivates him as an atheist, the historical resonance of Jesus, and the philosophical limits of materialism. Alex recently participated in a Jubilee debate that went viral, where his fascination with Christianity was put to the test (Jubilee's 1 Atheist vs. 25 Chris
U.S. Surgeon General's Final Prescription: A Path to Fulfillment and Community
Dr. Vivek Murthy, the now former U.S. Surgeon General, joins Rainn Wilson in this powerful episode of Soul Boom to explore the loneliness epidemic and its profound effects on mental and physical health. They discuss the societal shift from community-centered values to hustle culture and the dangers of social media, offering practical ways to reconnect with ourselves and others. Dr. Murthy shares i
Why Are We All Sick? Healing From the Modern Health Crisis w/ Dr. Rangan Chatterjee
Physician and author Dr. Rangan Chatterjee joins Rainn Wilson on the Soul Boom podcast to explore how modern life impacts our health and happiness. Dr. Chatterjee shares his holistic approach to addressing common struggles like anxiety, chronic illness, and stress by reconnecting with core values, embracing discomfort, and fostering compassion. He reflects on lessons from his personal journey, inc
Shadow Work: An Idiot's Guide (w/ Keila Shaheen)
Let's explore the transformative power of shadow work! Rainn Wilson sits down with Keila Shaheen, the bestselling author of "The Shadow Work Journal." Keila shares her journey from a mental health crisis to creating a viral movement that has helped millions heal through journaling and self-reflection. Together, they dive into topics like generational trauma, the role of dreams in personal growth,
Bobbi Althoff: Breaking Generational Cycles, Motherhood and Finding Purpose
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode will discuss the topic of suicide. Conversations about suicide can be troubling or overwhelming for some to listen to. If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide, please call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Trained professionals are available 24/7 to provide support and guidance to help you. You can also call your local County Cr
The Edge of Death: Exploring Mortality w/ Sebastian Junger
Rainn Wilson sits down with acclaimed journalist, author, and war correspondent Sebastian Junger to discuss his harrowing near-death experience, the mysteries of consciousness, and the human connection to mortality. Sebastian recounts his brush with death caused by a ruptured aneurysm and the profound vision of his late father that challenged his atheistic worldview.
This episode is a powerful exp
Shabbat Explained: The Secret to Sacred Rest (w/ Rabbi Susan Goldberg)
Rainn Wilson sits down with Rabbi Susan Goldberg to explore the enduring wisdom of Jewish tradition and its relevance to modern challenges. They discuss the dynamic nature of belief in God, the universal values that transcend religious boundaries, and practical ways to bring these spiritual virtues into our daily lives. Rabbi Susan shares the powerful concept of tikkun olam—repairing the world thr
Penn Badgley Returns to Redefine What Faith Truly Means
Actor Penn Badgley (YOU on Netflix, Gossip Girl) joins Rainn Wilson to dive into his lifelong search for meaning. Penn shares how his journey from being a child actor to playing the infamous Netflix villain Joe Goldberg, discussing the challenges of fame, toxic love, and Hollywood's misconceptions about happiness. They dive deep into the role of spirituality in navigating despair, societal change,
Dopamine Detox: Ending Isolation, Together w/ Alex Banayan
Rainn Wilson sits down with Alex Banayan, author of The Third Door, to explore the intersection of grief, spiritual growth, and the mental health epidemic plaguing younger generations. Alex shares his transformative journey from despair to resilience, revealing how moments of pain can lead to profound self-discovery. The conversation delves into the effects of isolating technologies, dopamine addi
Justice Denied: How Jerome Dixon Survived a Wrongful Conviction
A man wrongfully incarcerated for over two decades due to a coerced confession, Jerome Dixon shares his harrowing story of enduring 25 hours of police interrogation without legal representation, resulting in a life-altering prison sentence at just 17. Despite his wrongful conviction, Jerome's journey of self-discovery, resilience, and advocacy shines through as he recounts how he survived 21 years
[Rerun] Serj Tankian, How Can Music Change the World?
In this already-classic early episode of Soul Boom, the iconic Serj Tankian (lead singer of System of a Down) joined us for a profound exploration of music's transformative power. Serj delves into how music can change hearts, minds, and potentially the world. He shares personal stories and insights on the unique relationship between music, spirituality, and activism, revealing how his own experien
