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. 6D AGO

    The Top 10 Things I Used to Teach but Don't Believe Anymore: Honoring my Journey with Leslie Nease

    In this, the first episode of Season 6, and our first episode of the year, I decided to do a little life update and read an entry from my Substack about some of the doctrines I used to teach that I do not believe anymore. This essay from my Substack has spurred a lot of real, deep conversation in the comments section of my Substack. Not only do I share the article and what I no longer believe, but I also share what I believe now and offer an apology to those I have hurt along the way. This was so hard for me, but I found it so very helpful.   I am thankful that on my holiday break, I was able to reconnect with writing a bit more, as it was something that was not consistent in my life prior to the break. But it's here to stay because I'm finding tremendous healing in it and also a bonus community on Substack of people just like me who are seeking, asking deeper questions and being curious about their faith! Thank you for supporting this podcast. I appreciate you all so very much!  To follow my substack, click here! It's free, and if you want to support my work, there are options to give, as well, but that is not my goal with this space. I appreciate support, of course, but I want my work to be available to anyone who is genuinely seeking, asking questions and looking for alternative ways to express and live out spirituality. 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.

    32 min
  2. Only Us: Honoring the Journey of Jaxon Phoenix

    11/17/2025

    Only Us: Honoring the Journey of Jaxon Phoenix

    Today we welcome Jaxon Phoenix, an author and hand pan musician, to discuss his new book "Only Us: Searching for Truth About the Identity of God and Humanity." The conversation delves into Jaxon’s personal journey of faith, deconstruction, and healing from religious trauma. Together, we explore the challenges of questioning inherited beliefs, the psychological impact of indoctrination, and the process of finding a more authentic, compassionate spirituality. Jaxon shares his experiences with depression, therapy, and discovering the hand pan as a tool for healing, while he and Leslie reflect on the importance of critical thinking, empathy, and embracing uncertainty in faith. Bullet Points of Interest: Introduction to Jaxon’s book and his background as a hand pan musician and healer.Discussion of growing up in a fundamentalist Christian environment and the struggle with unanswered questions about biblical stories.The psychological effects of religious indoctrination and the fear-based messaging around hell and salvation.Jaxon’s journey through depression, therapy, and the role of music (hand pan) in his healing process.Honest conversation about deconstruction, family reactions, and the importance of thinking for oneself.Critique of church hierarchy, performance culture, and the need for authenticity and safe spaces in faith communities.Reflections on the universality of cult-like control in various belief systems and organizations.The value of empathy, understanding, and allowing others to follow their own spiritual paths.Jaxon’s perspective on faith as embracing uncertainty and the ongoing process of questioning and growth.A live hand pan performance inspired by the conversation, symbolizing freedom and healing. 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 11m
  3. A Conversation with My Daughter: Honoring the Journey of Stephanie Nease

    11/10/2025

    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
  4. No-Nonsense Spirituality: Honoring the Journey of Brit Hartley

    11/03/2025

    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
  5. Broadening the Narrative: Honoring the Journey of Nicki Pappas

    10/27/2025

    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
  6. A Sacred Spiritual Quest: Honoring the Journey of Michael Gungor

    10/20/2025

    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
  7. Leading with Love: Honoring the Journey of Malynda Hale

    10/13/2025

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

    10/06/2025

    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
See All (93)

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 - 2026
  • Episodes
    93
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Honoring the Journey
  • Show Website
    Honoring the Journey

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