A conversation with the author Kylie Ora Lobell: Exploring Spiritual Journeys and Interfaith Narratives
I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Kylie Ora Lobell, an accomplished writer for the Jewish Journal, to discuss her unique spiritual journey and professional experiences. Her story is particularly intriguing to me due to her background as a convert to Judaism. Spirituality is a deeply personal journey, varying greatly from person to person. Having grown up in an interfaith family, I find the journeys of converts fascinating — especially how they come to feel at home spiritually in one tradition over another.
Reflecting on my own upbringing, I recall Hanukkah candles glowing alongside a Christmas tree — a juxtaposition that felt normal to me, though I quickly learned it was not the norm in the 1990s. My family’s blend of Jewish and Christian traditions was relatively uncommon at the time, but I’m heartened to see that interfaith marriages seem to be more accepted today. All of this fuels my curiosity about how individuals find spiritual homes across different traditions.
I’ve been reflecting on my spirituality a great deal recently, especially in light of current events. This has inspired me to explore why people gravitate toward particular spiritual paths or choose to forgo spirituality altogether. These journeys are often deeply personal and rarely discussed openly, but shedding light on them can provide valuable insights. As I continue to delve into this subject, I aim to uncover and share the varied reasons behind these personal choices, enriching our understanding of spirituality in the modern world.
In addition to her work for the Jewish Journal, Kylie has authored a children’s book titled “Jewish Just Like You,” aimed at helping young readers understand the experiences of converts.
Kylie Ora Lobell’s story is just one example of the diverse and compelling spiritual journeys people undertake. What follows is a transcript of our conversation.
1. What made you decide to write? When was your first memory that you wrote something?
KOL: I wrote in my diary when I was a child, and then went professional when I wrote for my elementary school paper, Cougar Tracks. I’ve always loved to write; it helped me express what speaking could not. I was able to really be myself on the page.
2. Have you always wanted to be a writer? What made you decide to take the leap of faith to write?
KOL: Yes, there was nothing else I ever wanted to do, so I pursued it. I studied journalism in college and have been doing it ever since. I also added marketing/PR to my services because they are writing-adjacent, and I enjoy them as well.
3. I love that you decided to write a Jewish children’s book, “Jewish Just Like You.” Do you think more converts should choose to write books? Is this an expanding genre?
KOL: I hope so! I know of a few, but I’d love to hear all those stories.
4. How did you get started at the Jewish journal? Before that, how did you rise up in the writing ranks, so to speak?
KOL: I emailed the editor and told him I’d love to write for the paper. He gave me some assignments back in 2012 and I did a great job. I’ve been there ever since. I just kept building up my portfolio, pitching a ton of ideas, and not taking ‘no’ for an answer.
5. When it comes to Judaism what made you decide specifically on orthodox Judaism as opposed to reform, conservative Judaism?
KOL: I connected with it the most, and they were the most accepting. The rabbis I met within the Orthodox world were so kind and caring and didn’t reject me like I thought they would. I was fascinated by their teachings.
6. As I recall, I think I heard you mention in another interview that your family was Catholic originally. How did you end up finding Judaism?
KOL: I was never Catholic, but my grandma was. Growing up, most of my friends were Jewish and I dated Jewish guys. One guy, who ended up becoming my husband, Daniel, took me to Chabad one Friday night, and I fell in love with Jewish practice. That started me on my journey.
6. Do you feel Judaism has changed your life in a positive way?
KOL: Of course! I am so grateful I have Hashem and Judaism. Converting was the best decision I ever made.
7. How do you feel that your writing changed over the years?
KOL: I’ve become more open and honest over the years and aim to help people with their troubles in life. I hope I do.