This episode was a big deal for me: it was the first time I interviewed someone I had never met before.
I launched Curious Hearts to learn how people from all backgrounds, walks of life, and beliefs live a spiritual life. To me, it is especially important to talk to people I don’t know — because they are more likely to have a different experience than I do.In this episode, Lee and I had a wide-ranging conversation about traveling, building community, and being willing to be uncomfortable. Lee shares how his early exposure to Catholicism, Episcopalian traditions, Judaism, and even the influence of the Seneca Tribe shaped his understanding of faith and belonging.
We talk about what it means to be “watched” versus “watched over,” the importance of community and mentorship, and the ways our ancestors and spiritual practices support us when life gets difficult. Lee also reflects on his years living and working in Asia, where Eastern philosophy, Buddhism, and even daily prayer rituals deepened his perspective.
From Marcus Aurelius to Howard Thurman, from quiet prayer to outdoor adventures, Lee reminds us that self-actualization and spiritual growth often come through leaning into discomfort, building authentic community, and practicing forgiveness with ourselves first.
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🌐 Learn more about my work at veralester.com📩 Coaching inquiry form: veralester.as.me/coaching-discovery📸 Connect on Instagram: @verarocks
