Connection From Here: Finding Community in a Changing World
Feeling disconnected? In today's world, building a genuine community can feel harder than ever, especially for those of us who have stepped away from religion. Join mother-daughter duo Ashley and Michele Perry, co-founders of HopeBase, as they explore the evolving landscape of connection and community in the Connection from Here podcast.
Ashley, a former pastor turned secular chaplain and Gen Z thinker Michele, explore secular spirituality, answer the big questions about belonging, interview fascinating guests, and share real stories of how people are (and aren't) finding community in these changing times.
New episode out every other Wednesday!
Connection From Here: Finding Community in a Changing World
Creating Community After Leaving Religion: New Paths to Connection
The loneliness epidemic is more than just a feeling of isolation; it’s a health crisis. 50% of Americans say they experience measurable levels of loneliness on a daily basis. Humans are creatures of community, so why do we feel so alone? Episode 1 of Connection from Here is about creating community after leaving religion: finding new paths to connection.
This week, we’re exploring this diminishing feeling of connection, digging into the decline of traditional community spaces like religious institutions and how the digital age, while connecting us in some ways, is leaving us feeling more isolated than ever. We're not just talking about the problem, though. We're starting a journey to find solutions, to rebuild meaningful connections, and to find new ways to ask those big life questions we all have.
Topics covered:
The physical and emotional implications of the loneliness epidemic.
- How although intended to connect us, this digital era is lacking in quality connection.
- Why we’re seeing a decline in religious affiliation.
- Our own experience taking a step back from religion.
- The need to build new forms of community and support outside of religious institutions.
As we face an unprecedented era of disconnection, it's essential to rethink how we build communities that inspire care and belonging. Find us on social media and let us know your experience of finding community outside of religion.
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Learn more about HopeBase at https://www.gethopebase.com/
Links Mentioned In This Episode:
The True Cost of the Churchgoing Bust by Derek Thompson [The Atlantic]
Spirituality Among Americans [Pew Research Center]
America Has a Loneliness Epidemic. Here Are 6 Steps to Address [NPR]
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