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. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at https://www.stamps.com/soulboom. Thanks...
Jun 26, 2025•1 hr 23 min
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. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at https://www.stamps.com/soulboom. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Airbnb 👉 ht...
Jun 12, 2025•1 hr 17 min
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. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! 🐶 Ollie (60% OFF!) 👉 Take the online quiz and introduce Ollie to your pet. Visit https://www.ollie.com/soulboom today for 60% OFF you...
Jun 05, 2025•1 hr 27 min
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 power of boredom, the necessity of soul, and how success without healing can be hollow. THANK YOU TO...
May 29, 2025•1 hr 21 min
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 about God and suffering. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Airbnb 👉 https://airbnb.com/host Masterclass (...
May 15, 2025•1 hr 6 min
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's known online) joins Rainn to explore how modern life disconnects us from our inner truth and how exi...
May 08, 2025•1 hr 28 min
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 live with grace, redefine masculinity, and reconnect with the soul through nature, creativity, and co...
May 01, 2025•1 hr 33 min
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. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Quince (FREE shipping & 365-day returns!) 👉 https://quince.com/soulboom Airbnb 👉 https://airbnb.com/host SOUL BOOM LIVE IN LOS ANGELES 5/27! Ticke...
Apr 17, 2025•1 hr 7 min
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't built in a day, but in consistent, quiet effort. 👉 PRE-ORDER 'Champion Mindset' NOW ⏯️ SUBSCRIBE...
Apr 10, 2025•1 hr
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 episode is brought to you by... Airbnb: 👉 https://www.airbnb.com/host ⏯️ SUBSCRIBE! 👕 MERCH OUT NOW! 📩 ...
Apr 03, 2025•1 hr 8 min
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 about art's true value, this episode is rich with heart, humor, and depth. Rainn and Hasan discuss ...
Mar 27, 2025•1 hr 18 min
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 for sustainability, and why reconnecting to nature is the key to saving ourselves. They also discus...
Mar 18, 2025•1 hr 7 min
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, economic inequality, and the urgent need for a global spiritual awakening. MERCH OUT NOW! https://soulboom...
Mar 11, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 46
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 into their past in the evangelical world, what made them step away, and whether they still believe ...
Feb 25, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Season 1Ep. 45
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...
Feb 18, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Season 1Ep. 44
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 the concept of a soul is a mystery. Plus, Rainn and Ari debate whether religion is a force for good—...
Feb 11, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 43
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 despite its flaws. Plus, they dive into the spiritual consequences of the algorithm-driven world we ...
Feb 04, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 42
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 Christians). Together he and Rainn explore the mysteries of consciousness, the science behind near-death ...
Jan 28, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 1Ep. 41
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 insights on the triad of fulfillment—relationships, purpose, and service—and why these are key to reb...
Jan 21, 2025•1 hr 27 min•Season 1Ep. 40
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, including profound insights from Edith Eger and his mission to heal 100 million lives. This transformat...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 37 min•Season 1Ep. 39
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, and the intersection of mental health and spirituality. Keila Shaheen is an entrepreneur, mental hea...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 38
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 Crisis Line number, or call 911. In this deeply personal episode, Bobbi Althoff, the viral podcast...
Dec 17, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 1Ep. 37
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 exploration of what it means to face mortality and find meaning in our fleeting existence. Whether you’...
Dec 10, 2024•1 hr 27 min•Season 1Ep. 36
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 through action and intent—and reveals how Shabbat fosters a sacred space for joy, gratitude, and love. ...
Dec 03, 2024•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 35
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, and the lessons Penn learned through his Baha’i faith. This episode offers profound insights on lov...
Nov 26, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 34
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 addiction, and societal narratives of doom, offering insights into how to navigate a path toward hope an...
Nov 19, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 33
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 behind bars and now champions juvenile justice reform. This conversation dives into the flaws of th...
Nov 12, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 32
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 experiences have shaped his views. Don't miss this deep dive into the intersections of art, identity, and gl...
Nov 05, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 31
Andrew Yang joins Rainn Wilson on Soul Boom to delve into America’s political quagmire, questioning the deeply entrenched two-party system and exploring whether systemic change can lead us toward a more united, fair society. They discuss alternative models for democracy, like ranked-choice voting and community-driven leadership, while dissecting how corporate money and partisan competition fuel divisive politics. Together, Rainn and Andrew contemplate an optimistic path forward, comparing today’...
Oct 29, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 30
Actor Penn Badgley (YOU, Gossip Girl) and therapist Dr. Nura Mowzoon join Rainn Wilson to explore how media and modern television distorts our understanding of love, relationships, and passion. Together, they dive into why people mistake conflict for passion, how media reinforces unhealthy romantic ideals, and the deeper psychological impacts of romantic media on young people. Penn also opens up about the unintended consequences of portraying toxic love on-screen and the complexities of attachme...
Oct 22, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 29
