Honoring the Journey

Leslie Nease
  • 5.0 (31)
  • RELIGION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Life is a journey, and we’re all walking our own unique path. But every now and then, we get the chance to step onto someone else’s path, to see the world from their perspective, and to learn from their experiences. That’s what we do here on Honoring the Journey. We walk alongside others, explore their stories, and then step back onto our own path—hopefully with new insights, deeper understanding, and a broader perspective for the journey ahead. Honoring the Journey is hosted by Leslie Nease, a former Christian Radio Host, Speaker & Writer and Contestant on Survivor China known as "Sister Christian". Leslie has since deconstructed her Evangelical beliefs, but is still deeply connected to God and is seeking to understand faith from every perspective. Let's journey together!

  1. A Conversation with My Daughter: Honoring the Journey of Stephanie Nease

    1D AGO

    A Conversation with My Daughter: Honoring the Journey of Stephanie Nease

    In this special episode of Honoring the Journey, Leslie sits down with her oldest daughter, Stephanie, for an open and vulnerable conversation about faith, family, and personal transformation. Together, they reflect on their shared history, the impact of religious upbringing, and the challenges of deconstructing long-held beliefs. Through laughter, honesty, and a few tears, they explore what it means to find healing, autonomy, and genuine connection—both with each other and within themselves. • Stephanie recounts her experience growing up in purity culture and how it shaped her sense of self. • The episode delves into the pressures and expectations of being a “model” Christian daughter and the journey to self-acceptance. • Stephanie shares candidly about her time living abroad in Cambodia and how it influenced her worldview. • Both mother and daughter discuss the process of deconstructing their faith and finding new meaning outside of traditional religious structures. • The conversation highlights the importance of family support, therapy, and self-care in healing from religious trauma. Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease. Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE. Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here. Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire. Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here! If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 3m
  2. No-Nonsense Spirituality: Honoring the Journey of Brit Hartley

    NOV 3

    No-Nonsense Spirituality: Honoring the Journey of Brit Hartley

    In this episode, we welcome Brit Hartley, an atheist spiritual director, to discuss her personal journey of deconstructing from Mormonism and religion at large. Brit shares her upbringing in a loving Mormon community, the cognitive dissonance she experienced as a teenager, and the pivotal moments that led to her faith crisis and eventual atheism. The conversation explores the challenges of losing faith, rebuilding identity and meaning, and the importance of love, authenticity, and human connection beyond religious dogma. Brit and Leslie also discuss the complexities of maintaining relationships with religious family members, the benefits and shortcomings of religion, and Brit’s work in helping others find spiritual tools without belief requirements. The episode is a compassionate, nuanced look at deconstruction, spirituality, and the search for meaning. Points of Interest: Brit’s upbringing in Mormonism and early questioningThe impact of cognitive dissonance and teenage rebellionFaith crisis triggered by issues like polygamy and racism in MormonismThe emotional toll of losing faith, including depression and loss of identityRebuilding meaning through existentialism, love, and personal experienceNavigating relationships with religious family and friends post-deconstructionThe role of religion as a cognitive technology and its benefitsBrit’s approach to “no-nonsense spirituality” and her book/podcastThe importance of authenticity, boundaries, and bridge-building in interfaith relationshipsEmbracing the “dark night of the soul” as a transformative experience Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease. Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE. Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here. Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire. Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here! If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 6m
  3. Broadening the Narrative: Honoring the Journey of Nicki Pappas

    OCT 27

    Broadening the Narrative: Honoring the Journey of Nicki Pappas

    Today we welcome my longtime friend, Nicki Pappas, for a deeply personal and vulnerable conversation. Nicki shares her story of growing up in the Southern Baptist church, navigating fundamentalist spaces, and ultimately deconstructing her faith. We also explore themes of spiritual abuse, self-love, embodiment, therapy, and the journey toward authenticity. Nicki opens up about her evolving beliefs, coming out as queer, and the importance of living a life rooted in love rather than fear. The episode is rich with reflections on family, community, boundaries, and the courage it takes to embrace one’s true self. Find out more about Nicki at https://www.nickipappas.com Points of Interest: Nicki’s upbringing in a Southern Baptist church and transition into more fundamentalist spaces.The impact of church teachings on fear, anxiety, and self-worth.Experiences with spiritual abuse and leaving a toxic church environment.The role of therapy (especially Internal Family Systems) and embodiment practices in healing.The importance of curiosity, vulnerability, and authenticity in personal growth.Reflections on self-love, boundaries, and letting go of people-pleasing.Nicki’s journey of coming out as queer and exploring non-monogamy.The influence of key figures like Donna Powell and the power of love at the end of life.Insights on parenting, breaking generational cycles, and giving children tools for emotional health.The value of community, safe spaces, and finding peace with being misunderstood.Embracing joy, freedom, and living for the sake of love rather than out of fear or obligation. Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease. Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE. Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here. Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire. Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here! If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 12m
  4. A Sacred Spiritual Quest: Honoring the Journey of Michael Gungor

    OCT 20

    A Sacred Spiritual Quest: Honoring the Journey of Michael Gungor

    Today we welcome singer-songwriter and spiritual explorer Michael Gungor for a candid conversation about faith, deconstruction, and personal transformation. Michael shares his upbringing in a charismatic church, his early success as a worship leader, and the pivotal questions that led him to critically examine his beliefs. The discussion dives into the challenges of questioning long-held religious doctrines, the process of letting go of certainty, and the journey toward a more expansive, love-centered spirituality. Michael also reflects on mystical experiences, the role of ego, and the importance of embracing doubt and authenticity. The episode concludes with insights into Michael’s latest album and his ongoing creative and spiritual evolution. Points of Interest: Michael’s upbringing in a charismatic church and early musical influencesThe role of questioning and critical thinking in his spiritual journeyExperiences with deconstruction of faith and confronting religious dogmaThe impact of meeting people with different backgrounds and beliefsMystical experiences and the search for authentic spiritualityThe challenge of letting go of certainty and embracing doubtReflections on ego, identity, and the process of personal transformationInsights into Michael’s new album "Magnificat" and his creative processEncouragement for listeners navigating their own spiritual questionsFind out more about Michael at http://www.michaelgungor.comListen to his new album! Magnificat: https://open.spotify.com/album/2ZOXZ31WxsvPZ6A99hGjSG Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease. Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE. Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here. Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire. Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here! If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 3m
  5. Leading with Love: Honoring the Journey of Malynda Hale

    OCT 13

    Leading with Love: Honoring the Journey of Malynda Hale

    In this episode of Honoring the Journey, we chat with Malynda Hale—a singer, actress, podcast host, activist, and the new executive director of The New Evangelicals. The conversation explores Malynda’s upbringing in a progressive Christian household, her experiences navigating conservative evangelical spaces, and her journey toward embracing inclusive, justice-centered faith. Malynda shares insights on deconstruction, the importance of self-love, her role at The New Evangelicals, and the challenges and opportunities in faith-based activism. We also get a peek inside her music career, the differences between gospel and contemporary Christian music, and her ongoing creative projects. Points of Interest: Malynda’s progressive Christian upbringing and contrast with evangelical college experienceThe role of fear and love in religious communities and deconstruction journeysMalynda’s approach to activism and leadership at The New EvangelicalsThe importance of self-love as a foundation for loving othersDifferences between gospel and contemporary Christian music, rooted in lived experience and traumaMalynda’s creative work: music, film directing, and an upcoming docuseriesThe launch of new initiatives at The New Evangelicals, including courses, advocacy, and community support for marginalized groupsReflections on motherhood, family, and balancing personal and professional lifeLearn more about Malynda and what she's up to at www.malyndahale.com! Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease. Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE. Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here. Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire. Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here! If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    41 min
  6. The Narrow Way: Finding Hope & Humanity Amid Division with Ben Cremer

    OCT 6

    The Narrow Way: Finding Hope & Humanity Amid Division with Ben Cremer

    Today we are sharing a special, timely episode of Honoring the Journey where Leslie invites Ben Cremer back to the show to dive deep into the challenges of navigating grief, polarization, and faith in today’s divided world. Through honest conversation, personal stories, and a powerful parable, they explore what it means to see beyond our own lenses, embrace empathy, and walk the narrow way of love and compassion—even when it’s difficult. Points of Interest: Ben Cremer’s reflections on grief and naming our painThe parable of the sunglasses: seeing the world through different lensesThe struggle of being “in the middle” during polarized timesMisconceptions about being Christ-like in moments of conflictThe role of fear and certainty in fueling divisionPractical ways to embody peacemaking and compassionThe importance of curiosity, humility, and authentic conversationHow laughter and hope can be acts of resistanceAdvice for maintaining kindness and standing up for what’s rightInsights on repentance, empathy, and the power of communityFind Ben on Substack, Instagram, Facebook and Listen to His Podcast, Into the Gray. Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease. Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE. Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here. Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire. Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here! If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 9m
  7. Brian Recker is Back to Discuss "Hell Bent" on Honoring the Journey!

    SEP 29

    Brian Recker is Back to Discuss "Hell Bent" on Honoring the Journey!

    In this episode, Leslie welcomes back Brian Recker to discuss his new book, "Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love." Together, they dive into Brian’s journey from a strict evangelical upbringing to a more open, love-focused faith, exploring how fear-based teachings—especially the concept of hell—shape personal beliefs, relationships, and community dynamics. The conversation is honest, empathetic, and often humorous, offering practical tools for deconstructing harmful beliefs and encouraging listeners to embrace a spirituality rooted in love rather than fear. Whether you’re questioning your faith or just curious about new perspectives, this episode provides both thought-provoking insights and a sense of hope. Bullet Points of Interest: Brian’s background: Raised evangelical, former pastor, and now an author challenging traditional views on hell.The main theme of the book: How fear of hell distorts Christian spirituality and relationships.The paradigm shift: Moving from a punishment-based faith to one centered on love and acceptance.Personal stories: Both Brian and the host share their experiences of deconstructing faith and the emotional toll it takes.The impact of fear: How fear of hell shapes parenting, self-worth, and community dynamics.Practical tools: Brian introduces reflective questions (inspired by Byron Katie) to help listeners interrogate their beliefs.The metaphor of hell: Exploring hell as a spiritual and psychological experience, not just an afterlife destination.The importance of community: Encouragement to process these questions with others, and info about a free study guide for group discussion.Humor and empathy: Lighthearted moments about rapture predictions and the shared experience of spiritual anxiety.A message of hope: It’s possible to move beyond fear and find a more loving, authentic faith.Find Brians book on Amazon or Audible, available 9/30/25 Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease. Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE. Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here. Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire. Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here! If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    54 min
  8. The Transformational Power of Audacity: Honoring the Journey of Rachel Dickson

    SEP 22

    The Transformational Power of Audacity: Honoring the Journey of Rachel Dickson

    Rachel Dixon joins us today to share her powerful story of self-discovery, faith, and authenticity. Growing up in a deeply religious environment, Rachel navigated the complexities of identity, conformity, and spirituality, ultimately embracing her true self and advocating for wholeness as a birthright. Imagine being accused by people in the church of being a homosexual because of how you look, being rejected because of it and not even realizing that was your truth until much later, after many years of agonizing introspection! The church knew she was gay before she even did. How is that, if being gay is a choice? This story is powerful and incredibly eye opening. Through candid conversation, we explore the challenges of deconstructing long-held beliefs, the courage to live audaciously, and the importance of community and unconditional love. Bullet Points of Interest: Rachel’s upbringing in a strict Christian environment and the impact of religious expectations on her identity.The influence of Christian radio and audio dramas on Rachel’s early love for voice and storytelling.Early realizations of difference—Rachel’s discomfort with gendered expectations and required silence for women in church.The pivotal moment at Bible college: being dismissed from a job for having short hair, highlighting the consequences of non-conformity.The emotional toll of being judged for appearance and the pressure to fit a prescribed mold.Rachel’s journey through denial and eventual acceptance of her sexuality, including the challenges of navigating faith and identity.The experience of being directly questioned about her sexuality and the anger and self-reflection it provoked.The process of deconstructing faith—questioning dogma, seeking authenticity, and ultimately leaving the church to pursue a more genuine spiritual path.Insights on the difference between following rules for appearance versus living with honesty and love.The importance of community, creativity, and finding like-minded people after leaving a restrictive environment.Rachel’s message of honoring every step of the journey, even the difficult ones, as necessary for growth and self-acceptance.The episode closes with encouragement for listeners to embrace their own paths, seek community, and find freedom in authenticity.Find out more about Rachel and watch her TEDx Talk at www.racheldickson.com Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease. Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE. Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here. Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire. Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here! If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 2m
See All (91)

5
out of 5
31 Ratings

About

Life is a journey, and we’re all walking our own unique path. But every now and then, we get the chance to step onto someone else’s path, to see the world from their perspective, and to learn from their experiences. That’s what we do here on Honoring the Journey. We walk alongside others, explore their stories, and then step back onto our own path—hopefully with new insights, deeper understanding, and a broader perspective for the journey ahead. Honoring the Journey is hosted by Leslie Nease, a former Christian Radio Host, Speaker & Writer and Contestant on Survivor China known as "Sister Christian". Leslie has since deconstructed her Evangelical beliefs, but is still deeply connected to God and is seeking to understand faith from every perspective. Let's journey together!

Information

  • Creator
    Leslie Nease
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    91
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Honoring the Journey
  • Show Website
    Honoring the Journey

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