Best Maurice A Bloem Podcasts (2025)

1
Belonging Beyond the Resume with Katie Starobin - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 192) 1:08:54

5d ago1:08:54

1:08:54

In this engaging conversation, Katie Starobin reflects on her journey from Los Angeles to Seattle, sharing how soccer, family, and a rigorous humanities education shaped her values of teamwork, commitment, and community. We explore how her college experiences—ranging from leading the Jewish Student Union to studying abroad in Italy—helped her under…

1
Finding Her Voice with Jeanine Jansen – Walk Talk Listen (Episode 191) 1:03:06

12d ago1:03:06

1:03:06

In this episode of Walk Talk Listen, Jeanine Jansen invites us into her ongoing journey of finding her voice—both literally through singing and metaphorically as a leader, facilitator, and human being. We explore what it means to be asked to “show more of yourself” and how navigating visibility, vulnerability, and identity shapes one’s presence in …

1
161 - Maurice Bloem 40:33

15d ago40:33

40:33

This podcast interview between John Pinna and Maurice Bloem of the Joint Learning Initiative (JLI) on Faith and Local Communities explores the JLI's unique approach to leveraging data and evidence for just and sustainable development. Bloem emphasizes the importance of going beyond traditional top-down models and incorporating local wisdom and dive…

1
162: John Kiriakou 41:02

16d ago41:02

41:02

This conversation between John Pinna and former CIA officer John Kiriakou delves into the significance of the private meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky at the Vatican. Kiriakou, drawing on his intelligence and foreign policy background, analyzes the meeting in the context of past interactions between the two leaders, particularly …

1
From Systems to Soul: Reimagining Power and Purpose with Nate Wong - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 190) 1:08:12

19d ago1:08:12

1:08:12

Nate Wong, partner at Bridgespan and a visionary leader is dedicated to reimagining systems through equity, innovation, and human transformation. Nate shares his journey from management consulting to becoming a trusted voice in shifting power to communities, exploring how ownership models, trust-based philanthropy, and inclusive collaboration can f…

1
160: Ani Zonneveld - Muslims for Progressive Values 44:41

21d ago44:41

44:41

In this episode, John Pinna has a conversation with Ani Zonneveld, founder and president of Muslims for Progressive Values (MPV). Zonneveld discusses the organization's founding in response to the narrow representation of American Muslims post-9/11 and the dominance of conservative Muslim organizations. She highlights MPV's commitment to "10 princi…

1
Bridging Minds and Systems with Wietse Tol – Walk Talk Listen (Episode 189) 56:10

26d ago56:10

56:10

Wietse A. Tol, a leading figure in global mental health, holds academic appointments at the University of Copenhagen, VU University Amsterdam, Innlandet University (Norway), and Johns Hopkins University. His work focuses on multi-sectoral, integrated interventions that address both mental health and its social determinants — from poverty to climate…

1
Breaking the Cycle of Polarization with Rudelmar Bueno de Faria – Walk Talk Listen (Episode 188) 58:53

1M ago58:53

58:53

In this powerful episode of Walk Talk Listen, Rudelmar Bueno de Faria, General Secretary of ACT Alliance, a global coalition of over 137 faith-based organizations working across more than 125 countries is our guest. From Rudelmar his early days in southern Brazil to his influential roles at the World Council of Churches and now ACT Alliance, he sha…

1
159: 159: Jeff Mitchell - Was Jesus Real? 1:16:47

1M ago1:16:47

1:16:47

This episode features a conversation between John Pinna and Jeff Mitchell, an atheist and author of the book "Jesus Demigod", which argues that Jesus did not exist. Mitchell shares his faith journey, having grown up as a Christian in the Bible Belt and later becoming an atheist after critically examining the Bible and Christian theology. The conver…

1
Faith in Action for Gender Justice with Elaine, Paul and Nora – Walk Talk Listen (Episode 187) 1:09:37

1M ago1:09:37

1:09:37

This special episode of Walk Talk Listen explores the vital intersection of faith, gender justice, and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Maurice is joined by three inspiring guests behind the new report 30 Years On: Faith in the ICPD Programme of Action: Rev. Dr. Elaine Neuenfeldt, Global Gender Justice Programme Manager at ACT Alli…

1
158: Francesca Albanese - Palestinian Human Rights 28:29

1M ago28:29

28:29

This episode features a conversation with Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur for human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, who details the legal and political realities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. She argues that Israel’s 57-year occupation is unlawful and functions as a vehicle for annexation and repression, charact…

1
The Music Within Us: A Walk Talk Listen Compilation 15:09

2M ago15:09

15:09

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of sitting down with incredible musicians—artists who use their craft not just for entertainment, but for healing, storytelling, activism, and connection.In this compilation episode, you’ll hear highlights from conversations with past musical guests such as Maya Azucena, Lakecia Benjamin, Endea Owens, Noah Jac…

1
157: 157: The Problem with Human Presidents 1:02:45

2M ago1:02:45

1:02:45

In their podcast conversation, John Pinna and Elliot Toman discuss the evolution of religious freedom within the context of the Trump administrations. They examine how Trump 1.0 championed international religious freedom, while Trump 2.0 has shifted towards a focus on "religious liberty," specifically targeting anti-Christian bias, which prompts co…

1
156: Hasia Diner - Food and Culture of Jewish Immigrants 34:40

2M ago34:40

34:40

This podcast episode explores the multifaceted relationship between food, identity, and community, particularly within immigrant and Jewish communities in America. It features a discussion with a professor emerita specializing in American Jewish and immigration history, who shares personal anecdotes and insights related to how food serves as both a…

1
Transforming through Encounter with Julie Clague – Walk Talk Listen (Episode 186) 51:36

2M ago51:36

51:36

We are joined by Dr. Julie Clague, a Senior Lecturer in Theology at the University of Glasgow. Julie shares how her journey from a devout Catholic upbringing in post-industrial northern England to the cloisters of academia has been shaped by moments of kindness, deep reflection, and a powerful sense of calling. From studying chemistry to teaching t…

1
155: 155: Momin Sheikh 58:26

2M ago58:26

58:26

This episode features a conversation with Momin Sheikh, exploring the intersection of faith, culture, and identity within the Muslim community, particularly focusing on the experiences of first-generation American Muslims. The hosts discuss the nuances of being "Pakistani Muslim" versus strictly religious, addressing how cultural practices often bl…

1
Bridging Faith and Policy with Peter Mandaville - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 185) 1:11:02

2M ago1:11:02

1:11:02

In this episode, Dr. Peter Mandaville, a leading scholar in global Islamic studies and international affairs, shares insights from his extensive career in academia, government, and policy advising. A professor at George Mason University, he has held senior advisory roles at USAID and the U.S. Institute of Peace, focusing on faith engagement and inc…

1
154: 154: Roya Mahboob - Rule Breakers 23:38

2M ago23:38

23:38

In this conversation between John Pinna and Roya Mahboob, they discuss the stark contrast between Afghanistan's "golden age" of women's advancement from 2001-2021 and the current Taliban regime's gender apartheid policies. Mahboob details how her organization, Digital Citizen Fund, has shifted from establishing technology centers and teaching digit…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Kagwiria Muturia - Special WTL Series (Ep. 12) 22:36

2M ago22:36

22:36

In this last episode of the special #CSW69 series of the podcast Walk Talk Listen , Maurice Bloem speaks with Kagwiria, a human rights lawyer and gender technical advisor, about the ongoing fight—though she prefers to call it a journey—for gender equality and justice. With CSW 69 marking 30 years since the Beijing Declaration, Kagwiria reflects on …

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Michael Trice - Special WTL Series (Ep. 11) 27:13

2M ago27:13

27:13

Reflecting on the progress made since 1995, Michael Trice (the Spehar-Halligan Professor and Executive Director at the Center for Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement at Seattle University) also confronts the harsh reality that resistance to gender justice is growing, driven by nationalism, authoritarianism, and religious fundamentalism.He shar…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Eileen DeGuire - Special WTL Series (Ep. 10) 23:54

2M ago23:54

23:54

Eileen DeGuire, the Legislative Director for the Franciscan Action Network came from Washington DC to discuss the 30-year legacy of the Beijing Declaration on gender equality, the significant role of faith-based organizations in advancing and defending women's rights, and the increasing global challenges faced by women's rights. Eileen shares insig…

1
153: 153: Flipping the Script(ures) 58:43

2M ago58:43

58:43

In this candid conversation between John Pinna and Elliot Toman, the hosts explore compelling aspects of religious narratives, focusing on Christianity and Islam's different interpretations of Jesus. John, a Muslim, argues that the Islamic view of Jesus presents him as a prophet who didn't die on the cross but ascended to heaven, removing the "cult…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Nicole Hosein - Special WTL Series (Ep. 9) 30:27

2M ago30:27

30:27

Nicole Hosein from Episcopal Relief and Development talks about the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW 69), the progress and challenges faced in gender equality, and the significance of the Beijing Declaration's 30th anniversary. Nicole, with over a decades of experience in gender initiatives, emphasizes the vital role of ci…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Ruairidh Waddell - Special WTL Series (Ep. 8) 31:24

2M ago31:24

31:24

Ruairidh Waddell, Chief Program and Impact Officer of World Renew connected from Chiang Mai, Thailand. Rory discusses the importance of faith-based organizations in mobilizing grassroots movements and fostering respect and equality, especially amidst growing resistance to gender equality. He shares personal motivations and experiences that shaped h…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Francesca Traglia - Special WTL Series (Ep. 7) 20:48

2M ago20:48

20:48

Francesca Traglia, Co-President of the Society for Gender Professionals and former coordinator for the global gender justice program at Act Alliance delves into current challenges facing women's rights, the significance of faith-based organizations in gender equality, and strategic responses against anti-gender movements. Francesca shares her exper…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Nora Khalaf Elledge - Special WTL Series (Ep. 6) 28:00

2M ago28:00

28:00

Nora Khalaf-Elledge, who is part of the JLI community, is a gender advisor attending the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW 69) in New York to represent a working group for Sexual Violence Research Initiative (on communication with policymakers around faith and GBV). Nora is presenting about a toolkit for faith actors and po…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Nina Wu and Eunice Tham - Special WTL Series (Ep. 5) 27:02

2M ago27:02

27:02

Nina Wu and Eunice Tham from the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation dropped by to discuss about their experiences during the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York. The discussion covers their motivations for attending CSW, the importance of youth and women’s voices in faith-based organizations, and the role such organizat…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Helen Catton - Special WTL Series (Ep. 4) 23:33

2M ago23:33

23:33

Helen Catton discusses the importance of meaningful action over mere policy-making for advancing gender equality. The episode is part of a special series recorded live from New York during the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). Helen shares her extensive experience working with marginalized communities in Southeast Asia th…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Joy Kimani - Special WTL Series (Ep. 3) 22:23

2M ago22:23

22:23

Joy Kimani is a gender advocate and worker for the Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD). Broadcasting live from the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women in New York, we discussed the ongoing fight for gender equality 30 years after the Beijing Declaration. Topics include the role of faith-based organizations, addressing violence …

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Irene Anena -Special WTL Series (Ep. 2) 23:28

2M ago23:28

23:28

In this 2nd episode of a special series of Walk Talk Listen, recorded live from New York during the 69th session on the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), Irene Anena from ACT Alliance shares insights on the 30-year journey since the Beijing Declaration, emphasizing the role of faith leaders in advancing gender equality amidst growing globa…

1
Revisiting Beijing: Power, Progress, and the Promise of 2030 with Andrea Kaufmann -Special WTL Series (Ep. 1) 23:31

2M ago23:31

23:31

In this special episode of Walk Talk Listen, recorded live from New York during the 69th session on the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), Andrea Kaufmann, Faith and External Engagement Director for World Vision International is our guest. She discusses the growing resistance to gender equality, the importance of global solidarity, and the …

1
152: 152: Michael Barton - American Revert 57:10

2M ago57:10

57:10

In this podcast interview, John Pinna speaks with Michael Barton, a Muslim revert from Wichita, Kansas who converted to Islam in 2006. Barton discusses his journey from Methodism to Islam, describing how he felt disconnected from his Christian upbringing despite a strong belief in God. He shares how his college anthropology studies and encounters w…

1
Symphony of Purpose with Nikhil Bumb - Walk Talk Listen (episode 184) 1:00:48

2M ago1:00:48

1:00:48

In this episode of Walk Talk Listen, Maurice Bloem sits down with Nikhil Bumb to discuss his journey from engineering to corporate social impact. Nikhil shares his upbringing as a South Asian American born in Wyoming and raised in South Carolina, describing how his family's immigrant experience and Jain faith shaped his worldview. He reflects on th…

1
The Disease of the Soul: Confronting Global Hunger with Roger Thurow – Walk Talk Listen (Episode 183) 1:12:01

3M ago1:12:01

1:12:01

In this episode of Walk Talk Listen, journalist and author Roger Thurow shares his decades-long commitment to addressing global hunger and malnutrition. With 30 years at The Wall Street Journal, including 20 years as a foreign correspondent in Europe and Africa, Thurow has consistently spotlighted issues of poverty, food insecurity, and the systemi…

1
Faith, Research, and Transformative Action with Romina Istratii - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 182) 1:01:47

3M ago1:01:47

1:01:47

Dr. Romina Istratii shares her powerful journey from Moldova to Greece and beyond, shaping her work at the intersection of faith, gender, and international development. As a researcher and practitioner, she reflects on the limitations of traditional academia and the need for more inclusive, community-driven approaches to addressing societal challen…

1
151: Mustafa Akhwand 1:01:02

3M ago1:01:02

1:01:02

The interview between John Pinna and Mustafa Akhwand explores various themes related to U.S. foreign policy, diplomacy, and Muslim-American experiences. The conversation centers on the need for direct engagement and better understanding between the U.S. government and Middle Eastern countries, particularly in places like Syria, Iraq, and Afghanista…

1
Delivering a Legacy with Ivy de Bruijn - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 181) 1:02:18

3M ago1:02:18

1:02:18

Ivy de Bruijn, a passionate advocate for sustainable development and network coordination. As a program manager at SDG Netherlands, Ivy shares her journey from a legal career in intellectual property and media law to her current role, where she bridges connections among diverse stakeholders to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He…

1
150: Creationism and the Multiverse with Rabbi Aaron Zimmer and Rabbi Eli Feder 55:11

3M ago55:11

55:11

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, Rabbi Aaron Zimmer and Rabbi Eli Feder discuss their endeavor to explore the relationship between science and religion, specifically focusing on using physics to argue for the existence of God. Motivated by a desire to reconcile modern scientific understanding with religious belief, they challenge the notion that…

1
Lessons from My Father: Advocacy, Health, and Resilience with Sharuna Verghis - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 180) 45:55

3M ago45:55

45:55

In this episode, Sharuna Verghis shares her journey as a public health researcher, educator, and advocate for migrant and refugee health. She reflects on how her father’s deep commitment to social justice shaped her path, leading her to work extensively on migration and health for over two decades. From her early days being part of the participator…

1
Creating Safer Communities with Diana Gerson - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 179) 59:14

4M ago59:14

59:14

Since 2005, Rabbi Diana Gerson has served as the Associate Executive Vice President of the New York Board of Rabbis (NYBR). She has played a critical role in uniting interfaith leaders to champion child welfare, community resilience, and violence prevention. Diana is an internationally recognized advocate and speaker, leveraging her leadership to m…

1
Sustainable Impact Through Innovation with Nina Benoit - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 178) 1:05:09

4M ago1:05:09

1:05:09

Nina Benoit is Director of Sustainability at Brightest, a TEDx speaker, and a passionate climate activist dedicated to creating meaningful change for our planet and communities. Nina discusses her work at Brightest, where she collaborates with co-founder Chris Bolman and the team to provide ESG software solutions and consulting services designed to…

1
The Fire Within with Andriy Pinchuk - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 177). 45:41

4M ago45:41

45:41

Andriy Pinchuk, a Ukrainian Orthodox priest who fled to Norway with his family due to the war shares his life journey, including his calling to the priesthood despite his parents' objections, his work establishing a charitable fund in Ukraine, and his current efforts to support Ukrainians in need. He discusses his faith, expressing both unwavering …

1
149: 149: Adi Sharabi 49:37

4M ago49:37

49:37

In this thoughtful conversation between John Pinna and Adi Sharabi, they explore themes of identity, cultural heritage, and religious traditions across multiple communities. Adi, who identifies as an Arab Jew with Yemeni roots currently living in Thailand, discusses her journey from being a tour guide in Israel to becoming an online educator and co…

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Through the Cracks: Illuminating Leadership's Transformative Journey with Boy van Droffelaar - Walk Talk Listen (episode 176) 1:14:39

4M ago1:14:39

1:14:39

Dr. Boy van Droffelaar, born in 1949, shares his fascinating journey from a childhood marked by frequent moves to a successful career in corporate leadership and ultimately to facilitating wilderness-based leadership programs. In this episode, Boy recounts how his early experiences adapting to new environments shaped his curiosity and ability to co…

1
148: 148: Archetypes, agendas and interference 51:57

4M ago51:57

51:57

A Christian and a Muslim talk religion & politics. In this episode, John and Elliot engage in a conversation about the archetypal influences behind Star Wars that eventually leads to an examination of how ideological agendas can reduce the effectiveness of humanitarian intervention. Support Crossing Faiths…

1
Blueberries, faith, Falsterbo, and pulse with Jenny Bergh - Walk Talk Listen (episode 175) 1:09:40

5M ago1:09:40

1:09:40

Jenny Bergh is a seasoned coach and facilitator with a unique approach to leadership and personal growth. Jenny's philosophy revolves around four core values: blueberries, faith, Falsterbo, and pulse—each representing a key element in fostering meaningful connections and growth. Jenny shares her journey from Johannesburg to Sweden, her experiences …

1
A short holiday break plus Top 10 Episodes of 2024 11:31

5M ago11:31

11:31

What a fantastic year it has been for my podcast, Walk Talk Listen! I’m incredibly grateful to all the amazing guests who shared their stories and insights and, of course, to the listeners who make it all worthwhile.This week, I invite you to revisit 2024’s journey and listen to at least one episode you may have missed. To help you decide, here’s t…

1
147: 147: Good News for Me, but Not for Thee? 35:56

5M ago35:56

35:56

A Christian and a Muslim talk religion & politics. In this episode, John pushes back against Elliot's suggestion that the Gospel is the cornerstone of Western Civilization by asking: Who's Gospel? Support Crossing FaithsBy John Pinna and Elliot Toman

1
Faith, Advocacy, and Building Bridges with Rev. Chloe Breyer - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 174) 1:01:25

5M ago1:01:25

1:01:25

Rev. Dr. Chloe Breyer, Executive Director of the Interfaith Center of New York (ICNY), reflects on her journey of faith, leadership, and advocacy. Rev. Breyer discusses her upbringing in an interfaith household, her experiences studying religion, and her eventual call to ordained ministry. She shares the transformative work of ICNY, which brings to…

1
146: Dinosaurs in Ordinary Time 1:04:07

5M ago1:04:07

1:04:07

A Christian and a Muslim talk religion & politics. In this episode, John and Elliot discuss the function of religion in superimposing meaning over apparent meaninglessness. Support Crossing FaithsBy John Pinna and Elliot Toman

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Maurice A Bloem Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen