This week we are joined by cantor, licensed clinical social worker, and PhD candidate Laura Stein. In this episode, Laura reflects on how harm and silencing during her own seminary experience inspired her research and became part of a longer journey toward healing and reclaiming her voice.
This week we are joined by Cantor Laura Stein! Laura Stein is a cantor, licensed clinical social worker, and PhD candidate in the psychology of religion, blending spiritual care, mental health, and research on how to live a meaningful, whole life. Growing up knowing she was a lesbian gave her an outsider’s view of the world, and after experiencing abuse at her cantorial seminary, she turned from singing in pulpits to studying trauma, reclaiming one’s voice, and how personal healing and collective justice can drive change. She’s now writing a book that weaves that research with her story of overcoming spiritual harm. She stays connected to sacred Jewish music by officiating weddings and lifecycle events, work that landed her in Vogue and on a list of NYC’s Top 20 Wedding Officiants.
In this episode, Laura joins Carly and Emily to discuss her work as a cantor, social worker, and PhD researcher studying how justice is taught in clergy training. She reflects on how harm and silencing during her own seminary experience inspired her research and became part of a longer journey toward healing and reclaiming her voice. The conversation also explores queer identity, growing up in the 1990s, and how moments of loneliness can shape who we become.
Recommendations From This Episode:
Alone Kissing Girls On Shabbat with Dr. Sara Glass
Follow Laura: @cantorlaurastein
Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag
Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh
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