When Faith Feels Off: Embracing "Soul Friction" and Finding a Deeper Relationship with God | Kendall Mariah (Bonus Episode)

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience. This episode is coming from a Christian perspective, so if this content is something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episodes that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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What happens when you follow all the “right” rules of faith - make the right friends, attend church faithfully, marry the right person, seek God sincerely - and something still feels off?

In this episode, Diane sits down with Kendall Mariah, author of This Little Fire of Mine, to talk about what she calls “soul friction” - that quiet but persistent tension between what we believe and what we’re actually experiencing. Kendall shares how growing up as a “good Christian girl” didn’t shield her from doubt, disillusionment, or the pressure to stay silent when things didn’t align. Instead of ignoring that friction, she began to lean into it - asking harder questions, speaking more honestly, and discovering a deeper, more intimate faith on the other side.

We talk about why doubt can lead to discernment, how spiritual angst can refine rather than ruin your faith, and why it’s not only safe - but transformative -to bring your anger, fear, and confusion directly to Jesus. If you’ve ever felt tension between your values and your lived experience, or wondered whether questioning means you’re doing faith wrong, this conversation is an invitation to pursue a more integrated, authentic walk with God - one anchored in conviction, not performance.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

• Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.
• Connect with Kendall:
• Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/kendallmariah
• Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/kendallmariahcreativestudio
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kendallmariah
• Book: This Little Fire of Mine: How Flickers of Doubt Can Spark a Bolder, Brighter Faith

About Kendall |

Kendall Mariah is a lifestyle content creator, photographer, and brand strategist whose honest storytelling has cultivated a deeply connected online community. As a business owner, military spouse, and adoptive mom, she speaks authentically about the intersections of faith, identity, and everyday life.

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