While there’s no doubt that religion is still deeply important for many people, alternative paths to spirituality have become increasingly popular.
More Americans now describe themselves as “spiritual but not religious,” and the result has been a widening variety of ways that people of all countries and backgrounds can pursue their beliefs.
Physical places of worship will likely always exist, yet the ease of access to information created by the internet has resulted in seemingly endless possibilities for individuals to explore other belief systems. By combining different sources of wisdom, it’s now possible for each person to curate their own spiritual diet, and there’s nothing wrong with trying out the many spiritual offerings available online.
Spotify, like YouTube and SoundCloud, has abundant resources in this area. If you’ve been looking to expand your palette with some new ideas about spirituality and humanity’s endless search for meaning, here are a few great ways to get started.
Krista Tippett
Krista Tippett has made a name for herself in the world of spiritual learning, even earning a Peabody Award for her podcast “On Being,” which explores big questions about science, the arts, healing and how spirituality fits in.
Her interview subjects include a broad swath of thinkers, from Buddhist monks like Thich Nhat Hanh to popular writers like Michael Pollan. If you’re looking for a fascinating podcast with diverse subject matter, this is worth a try.
“Each week a new discovery about the immensity of our lives,” the description says. New conversations every Thursday, with occasional extras.
Tell Them, I Am
A few years ago, Southern California Public Radio started a new radio show called “Tell Them, I Am,” featuring Muslim voices, although the show isn’t explicitly or only about exploring Islam.
The host, Misha Euceph, begins each episode of the program with a story from her own life. As an immigrant who moved to the US from Pakistan when she was 12 years old, she has a lot to say about both the immigrant experience and her own spirituality.
It’s a show where successful Muslim writers, fashion experts and comedians can tell their stories, while also illuminating what it means to be Muslim.
“Tell Them, I Am is about the small moments that define who we are and who we are not,” the Spotify description reads. “The stories are universal. The voices are all Muslim.”
John de Ruiter
A writer and speaker based in Edmonton, Canada, John de Ruiter has offered his unique brand of spirituality all over the world through retreats and speaking engagements.
During the pandemic, John de Ruiter expanded his virtual offerings, and the intimate dialogues he has with others are available on both Spotify and SoundCloud. The conversations can involve questions about spirituality or about the individual struggles of those who sign up for the meetings.
“John de Ruiter is an innovative voice for spiritual evolution, teaching that life’s meaning can be known and lived through ‘core-splitting honesty’,” the Spotify description reads.
Bi’ki’gi Spiritual Lessons
While much of the world has long been fascinated with Native American tribes, their spirituality has often been stereotyped and misunderstood.
The Bi’ki’gi Spiritual Lessons and Tales Podcast offers real understanding of the engaging and complex mythology of Native American tribes, delivered in a compelling format.
“We will be discussing ancient legends and stories as well as old teachings and truths,” the description reads. “We will dive into an ancient Native American world that explores life’s mysteries.”
There’s so much to learn and explore on Spotify. Hopefully these suggestions can serve as a springboard to other channels and other ways of expanding the mind and spirit.
