After a year-long disappearance from social media and the podcast, I’m back—and not because I’ve figured it all out, but because I finally started living from a place of truth.

In this first episode of Life After Devout, I share where I’ve been, what changed, and how I quietly rebuilt a life I love. From regular therapy to spontaneous walks in borrowed shoes, from falling in love with kickboxing to crossing the finish line of a

Spartan Race—this is the real story of coming home to myself.

This isn’t about who I used to be. It’s about the life I’m creating now—and inviting you into. If you’ve ever needed a soft return, a quiet comeback, or a reminder that joy can be rebuilt, this episode is for you.

If you’re in this with me—let’s talk about and live life after devout.

––––––––––
Mentioned in this episode:
• How logging off gave me clarity• Why I turned to movement as medicine• Rebuilding identity outside performance• Creating rhythms of strength, rest, and joy• What this show will look like moving forward

If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since the beginning—thank you. I didn’t walk away from you. I just turned inward for a while. And now, I’m ready to share what I’ve found.

Let’s begin again.
Have thoughts about the episode? I’d love to hear them. Leave a comment or send a message—and if this resonated, share it with someone who’s ready for their own quiet comeback.

FIND ME HERE

In this deeply insightful conversation, licensed clinical social worker Joel Pieper breaks down the different types of trauma—beyond the obvious and into the subtle, often overlooked patterns that shape our lives. We explore:

• The difference between Big T and little t trauma
• How trauma shows up in your body, relationships, and behavior
• Why unresolved trauma often appears as anxiety, overthinking, emotional shutdown, or people-pleasing
• The critical role of nervous system regulation in sustainable healing
• Holistic, compassionate approaches to trauma recovery you can begin today

Whether you’re new to this conversation or have been walking your healing path for a while, Joel offers clarity, language, and actionable tools that help you reconnect to your body, your story, and your power.

Want to share your thoughts or feedback?

We’d love to hear what resonated most with you. Leave a comment, send us a message, or leave a rating. Your voice helps us keep creating meaningful content that meets you where you are.

Connect with Joel Pieper:

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Explore More:

Looking for tools to support your own comeback? Download the Quiet Comeback Kit or check out our self-guided eBooks on resilience, feminine revival, and healing from burnout at ⁠Wendi's Library.⁠

Follow, share, and subscribe if this conversation moved you. It helps others find their way back to themselves too.

This year, I want us to explore the stories of those who have faced tough challenges, particularly those who’ve come out of cult environments. I believe these conversations are vital in helping others find hope and connection in their own lives. Each episode will feature guests who’ve navigated their journeys and learned powerful lessons along the way.

I’ll also share my own insights from my time away—what I learned about myself, the importance of stepping back, and how we can all cultivate a sense of peace amid chaos.

This podcast isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving and discovering that, ultimately, everything works out in the end. So whether you’ve faced similar challenges or just want to hear some inspiring stories, there’s something here for everyone.

To contact Dr. Ryan: www.drryanlee.com

Anthony is a former deacon and a 10.5 year member of the World Mission Society Church of God, a cult group that believes Jesus’ second coming already happened (and this Jesus died in 1985) and worships an elderly lady in Korea as “God the Mother.” Through the pandemic, personal research, and family support, Anthony was able to escape the mind control this group had over him as well as the arranged marriage they coerced him into.

Joe and Fran Guerino share their story of raising a family in the Jehovah's Witness religion and what their wakeup process looked like.  

To contact Joe and Fran: [email protected]   
315-221-0130

Krystaelynne is an author and child sexual abuse advocate who is dedicated to using her writing to educate and empower children. With a background in criminal justice, political science, and ethnic studies, she has made it her mission to prevent child sexual abuse and promote positive self-esteem in young readers. 

As a mother, Krystaelynne is passionate about providing children with the tools they need to develop confidence and strength in the face of life's challenges. In her work as an advocate, she is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children. Krystaelynne currently resides in Northern California with her husband and son, who provide her with love and support.



In addition to her books, Krystaelynne offers bulk discounts, school visits, and resources on child sexual abuse prevention. To learn more and stay updated, visit her website and follow her on social media.



Website: ksdiggs.com

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @allthingsdiggs

Facebook: Author K Sanders Diggs

Dre is a 35 year young Mexican/Irish fellow from Southern California. His was raised as Jehovah’s Witness his entire life, but consistently struggled with his faith a majority of the time. He left the religion by way of being disfellowshipped at 31. He’s passionate about music, his love for animals and personal growth. He likes to spend his time creating beautiful memories with the ones he loves.  

www.instagram.com/wilderhazemusic

One love 💚