The Cost of Being Authentic in a World That Wants You Quiet | Kayla Schreibstein

What does it actually take to live as your authentic self — especially when it costs you friendships, comfort, and approval?In this episode of Common Denominator, I sit down with Kayla Schreibstein for a deeply honest conversation about identity, courage, belonging, and what it means to stand for who you are when it would be easier to blend in.Kayla shares her journey growing up disconnected from her Jewish identity, the moment October 7th forced her to confront who she really was, and the heartbreak of losing close friendships over deeply held beliefs. We talk about what it means to choose authenticity over people-pleasing, why community matters more than ever, and how showing up publicly can become a source of healing — not just for yourself, but for others.We explore faith, culture, boundaries, fear, self-doubt, and the pressure young women feel to stay quiet or agreeable. This episode is about finding your voice, owning your story, and realizing that purpose doesn’t come from validation — it comes from alignment.This conversation is a reminder that you don’t reach your full potential until you stop hiding who you are.In this episode, you'll learn: - Why authenticity often comes at a personal cost- How losing friends can clarify who you really are- What it means to own your identity publicly- Why community is the antidote to isolation- How self-doubt shows up — even in confident people- Why people-pleasing keeps you stuck- How young women can step into their voice and power- Why purpose matters more than money or approvalFollow Kayla Schreibstein: https://www.instagram.com/kay_schreibsFriends of Kayla podcast: https://linktr.ee/friendsofkaylaFriends of Kayla instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsofkaylaTimestamps:00:00 – Choosing purpose over chasing money01:00 – Rejecting identity and the fear of being different03:00 – October 7th and losing close friendships06:30 – Agreeing to disagree — and when it fails09:00 – Division, narrative, and the cost of hatred12:00 – Building community through culture and tradition14:30 – Showing up publicly despite fear16:30 – Women, confidence, and self-doubt18:30 – Boundaries, people-pleasing, and personal freedom20:30 – Final reflections on authenticity and growthLike this episode? Leave a review here:https://ratethispodcast.com/commondenominator🎙 Common Denominator PodcastWebsite: https://moshepopack.com/podcast/YouTube: @mpopackInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpopackFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoshePopackNewsletter: https://moshepopack.com/newsletter/