MIDDLE GROUND - Real Conversations on Faith, Identity & Becoming — Through Brynne's LDS Lens of Curiosity, Love and Doubt

In this solo episode I share something pretty personal about my relationship with the sacrament and why missing it used to send me into a spiral of frustration and shame. I talk about what finally shifted for me, including actually sitting with the words of the sacrament prayer and finding something in it I had completely overlooked. I share my thoughts on what it really means to have the spirit with you and why I no longer believe it's something you can lose. I also talk about the Sabbath day, how it has evolved in our home, and why giving yourself permission to figure out what these practices mean for you personally is not a departure from faith but an expression of it.

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/

Takeaways:

Being late to church with kids can be a choice.

The sacrament is an opportunity for connection.

Reframing the importance of the sacrament can alleviate frustration.

The spirit can be present in various life situations.

God loves us regardless of our choices.

The sacrament prayer can be seen as a love letter from Jesus.

Sabbath observance can evolve and look different for families.

Family time can be prioritized in various ways on Sundays.

It's important to explore the underlying principles of the Sabbath.

Give yourself permission to evolve in your spiritual journey.

Chapters:

00:00 Embracing Family Life and Church Attendance

03:25 Reframing the Importance of Sacrament

06:11 Understanding the Spirit and Personal Connection

09:18 The Sacrament as a Love Letter from Jesus

12:14 Redefining the Sabbath and Family Time

14:58 Exploring the Purpose of the Sabbath

18:15 Finding Joy in Family Activities and Rest

20:20 Encouragement to Evolve and Discover Personal Faith

In this episode, I sit down with Julie Parry, a professional foot zoner who shares her beautiful story of how this healing modality found her and how it ultimately changed the entire direction of her life. I talk with Julie about what foot zoning actually is, how our feet are literally a map of our whole body, and how the emotions we store physically can show up as real pain, illness, and dis-ease. Julie shares some incredible client stories including one that gave me chills, and we talk about people pleasing, resentment, boundaries, empaths, and generational healing. I also share my own foot zoning experience and what happened when a zoner landed on something I hadn't told a single soul. If you've been curious about holistic and alternative healing, or you're just looking for another tool to support your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing, this one is for you.

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/

Julie Parry:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliekparry/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julie.knight.parry

To Make an Appointment: call 801-726-3980

Takeaways:

Foot zoning is a holistic practice that maps the body through the feet.

Emotional healing is often intertwined with physical ailments.

Setting boundaries is crucial for personal well-being.

Skepticism can be overcome through personal experience and openness.

Intention plays a vital role in the effectiveness of healing practices.

Helping others can lead to personal healing and fulfillment.

The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and essential for growth.

There is no shame in seeking help or feeling emotions.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Foot Zoning

03:22 The History and Benefits of Foot Zoning

06:24 Personal Journey and Emotional Healing

09:25 Setting Boundaries and Self-Discovery

12:24 The Role of Emotions in Healing

15:14 Becoming a Foot Zoner

18:03 Finding Peace and Purpose

21:16 The Importance of Reflection and Self-Care

25:42 Finding Stillness in a Busy World

28:09 The Journey of Becoming a Foot Zoner

29:39 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Worth

32:07 Working with Skeptics and Emotional Healing

38:10 Understanding the Foot Zoning Process

40:06 Navigating Obstacles in Alternative Healing

43:05 The Power of Vulnerability and Emotional Awareness

48:38 The Power of Support and Love

51:59 Understanding Spirituality and Healing

53:46 Generational Healing and Emotional Connections

55:45 The Importance of Helping Others

01:01:12 Transformative Stories of Healing

01:07:07 Teaching Foot Zoning and Its Impact

Keywords:

faith, foot zoning, healing, emotions, boundaries, wellness, energy, self-care, holistic health, personal growth, spirituality, foot zoning, alternative healing, emotional awareness, vulnerability, spirituality, personal growth, holistic health, healing techniques, self-discovery, energy work

In this solo episode, I share recent thoughts on fairness versus equality, using a water bottle analogy my three-year-old inspired. Just like different water bottles serve different purposes, we're all human but vastly different in our needs and purposes. I discuss why equality (giving everyone the same thing) isn't always fair, and how fairness means giving what's actually needed. I talk about my evolving view of tithing—seeing it less as a mandatory 10% and more as a universal spiritual law of giving and receiving available to everyone, regardless of religion. It's about contributing to humanity, not a specific number. Finally, I share two scripture resources I'm loving: the Book of Mormon Storybook and God's Stories as Told by God's Children. I read the Bible introduction explaining how it's weird because it's ancient with many storytellers, and how our voices matter in continuing that conversation. I'm learning to connect with scripture in new, more personal ways without taking everything so literally.

Takeaways:

Fairness is about giving what is needed, not just equal treatment.

Individual needs vary, and support should be tailored accordingly.

Tithing is more about contributing to humanity than a strict percentage.

The Bible contains many voices and should be interpreted personally.

Scriptures can provide valuable lessons without being taken literally.

We should focus on the joy and abundance in our lives.

Teaching children about fairness can help them understand individuality.

Religious principles should guide us, not limit us.

Finding evidence of joy and peace is essential for personal growth.

Everyone has the agency to choose their path in life.

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/
Threads: @brynne_erickson

https://www.threads.com/@brynne_erickson?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Referenced in This Episode:

📕 "God's Stories as told by God's Children - Illustrated Bible Story Book for Children" by The Bible for Normal People

Buy it on AMAZON - https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Stories-told-Children-Illustrated/dp/1964423007

📕 "The Book of Mormon Storybook" by Josh and Sarah Sabey

Buy NOW - https://forlittlesaints.com/shop/

🎧Faith Matter Podcast "Why We Can't Cherry- pick the Bible" with Dan McClellan

Listen on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hp5UErrEozI

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/163-why-we-cant-cherry-pick-the-bible-a/id1307757928?i=1000610216524

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Fairness and Equality

12:13 The Principle of Tithing

20:02 Exploring a New Version of the Bible

HEADS UP: This conversation does mention sex and pornography. 

In this episode, I sit down with Danny and Kelsey to hear their journey from active LDS members to stepping away from the church together. Danny shares how years of pornography-related shame from bishops changed when one compassionate bishop told him "if only perfect people could go to the temple, the temples would be empty" and invited him to the temple instead of withholding it. That moment of love instead of shame cracked open years of buried pain and started his faith transition. Kelsey talks about how moving to Colorado saved their marriage by getting away from family voices telling her to divorce Danny, and how she eventually started her own faith journey after constantly receiving pity instead of understanding from church members. They discuss how they're raising their kids with curiosity instead of dictating beliefs, holding onto Jesus's teachings of compassion while letting go of the institution, and wishing everyone would seek to understand others rather than judge them.

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/
Threads: @brynne_erickson

https://www.threads.com/@brynne_erickson?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Takeaways:

Danny's experience in the bishopric highlighted the need for compassion over shame.

They emphasize the importance of curiosity and understanding in relationships.

Both Danny and Kelsie aim to raise their children with open discussions about faith. 

Chapters:

00:00 Spiritual Upbringing and Early Influences

03:13 Pivotal Moments in Faith Development

06:11 Challenges and Questions in Faith

09:26 High School Experiences and Social Dynamics

12:14 Shifts in Religious Views Over Time

15:11 Experiences in Mission and Early Marriage

18:10 Navigating Church Leadership and Personal Struggles

21:03 The Turning Point in Faith Journey

24:27 The Pressure of Expectations

28:02 Breaking Free from Shame

31:44 Deciding to Stop Feeling Bad

36:01 Shifting Perspectives on Self-Talk

39:58 Navigating Mixed Faith Marriages

44:34 Finding Support and Understanding

49:46 The Journey of Self-Discovery

54:15 Navigating Pity and Compassion

58:41 The Journey of Leaving the Church

01:01:38 Teaching Children About Beliefs

01:08:23 Embracing Different Perspectives

01:11:47 Curiosity and Understanding in Relationships

In this episode, I sit down with Jill Birth to explore the complex relationship between body image, personal identity, and self-acceptance. Jill shares her journey from being called "one fat little kid" by a school nurse in third grade to her transformative moments that led her to embrace her identity. We discuss the impact of family dynamics, societal standards, and personal struggles with weight and self-worth. Jill emphasizes the importance of daily practices like her PACTE method (Prayer, Affirmations, Scriptures, Texting gratitude, Eating and Exercise) and mirror work in fostering a positive body image. Our conversation highlights the ongoing journey of self-discovery and the need for compassion towards ourselves and others in a world filled with unrealistic beauty standards.

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/

Threads: @brynne_erickson

https://www.threads.com/@brynne_erickson?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Jill Birth:

jillbirth.com

📕 "The Circle Maker," by Mark Batterson

Takeaways:

Transformative experiences can lead to self-acceptance.

Vision boards can help manifest personal goals.

Weaknesses can be turned into strengths.

Love cannot be earned through appearance.

Daily practices are essential for self-love.

Mindset and affirmations play a crucial role in self-acceptance.

Embracing body diversity is important for mental health.

Self-discovery is a continuous journey. 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Body Image and Identity

02:47 Early Memories and Body Image

06:00 Family Dynamics and Body Image

09:07 Transformative Experiences and Vision Boards

13:02 Turning Weaknesses into Strengths

15:07 Influences on Body Standards

18:51 Ongoing Struggles and Acceptance

20:28 Coaching and Helping Others

22:40 The Importance of Morning Routines

25:19 Affirmations and Spiritual Practices

27:28 Connecting with Others: Gratitude and Communication

29:21 Healthy Living: Exercise and Nutrition

30:49 Body Image and Self-Acceptance

34:22 Navigating Relationships and Self-Worth

36:56 Self-Discovery and Mirror Work

40:15 Embracing Change and Loving Yourself

43:17 Finding Peace with Your Body and Clothes

In this episode, I share my personal journey of self-discovery, touching on themes of body image, desirability, and the challenges of facing fears. I reflect on my experiences with family, interviews, and my own struggles with self-acceptance, particularly regarding weight and attractiveness. I also discuss my recent adventures at an amusement park, emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. Throughout the conversation, I highlight the significance of self-love and the ongoing journey of personal growth.

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/
Threads: @brynne_erickson

https://www.threads.com/@brynne_erickson?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Takeaways:

There are many awesome people with great stories around us.

The process of becoming is continuous and evolving.

Body image issues can consume our lives, but transformation is possible.

Weight should not define our desirability or self-worth.

Taking care of ourselves can improve our self-perception.

Our bodies are unique and require love and attention.

Facing fears can lead to personal growth and new experiences.

Meditation and breath work can help manage anxiety.

It's important to challenge ourselves and try new things.

The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and personal.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background Ambiance

02:21 The Journey of Self-Discovery

04:03 Body Image and Personal Transformation

09:18 The Complexity of Weight and Desirability

11:12 Amusement Park Adventures and Facing Fears

19:28 Embracing Challenges and Personal Growth

In this episode, I sit down with Paige Aardema to explore the Plan of Salvation, a central tenet of LDS theology that addresses fundamental questions about existence, purpose, and the afterlife. We share personal experiences, discuss the importance of the Atonement, and address common concerns regarding faith and family dynamics. Our conversation emphasizes love, agency, and the infinite nature of God's plan, ultimately encouraging you to find your own purpose and connection to the divine.

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/
Threads: @brynne_erickson

https://www.threads.com/@brynne_erickson?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Resources From This Episode:

• Talk by President Uchtdorf - "O How Great the Plan of Our God" https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2016/10/o-how-great-the-plan-of-our-god?lang=eng
• LOVE Plan of Happiness Graphic - https://www.pinterest.com/pin/1111192908068821370/

Takeaways:

The Plan of Salvation answers fundamental questions about existence.

Personal experiences shape our understanding of faith and purpose.

The Atonement of Jesus Christ is central to the Plan of Salvation.

Agency is essential for growth and learning in life.

The Fall of Adam and Eve was necessary for human progression.

Life on Earth is a time for learning and growth.

The spirit world is a place of continued learning after death.

Degrees of glory reflect our commitment to God's light.

God's love encompasses all individuals, regardless of belief.

Finding your 'why' can lead to greater purpose and fulfillment.

Sound bites:

"God loves families."

"It's all going to work out."

"Find your why."

Chapters:

00:00 Exploring the Plan of Salvation

03:19 The Importance of Purpose and Belonging

06:04 Understanding Agency and Questions of Faith

09:01 The Nature of God and Agency

12:09 The Pre-Mortal Life and Our Divine Heritage

15:08 The Fall and Its Significance

17:48 The Role of Jesus Christ in Our Journey

21:10 The Atonement: A Personal Connection

24:07 The Spirit World and Its Implications

31:43 Understanding the Afterlife: A Shared Journey

34:39 The Three Degrees of Glory: A Unique Perspective

40:06 The Nature of Heaven: Comfort and Belonging

44:56 Family Dynamics and the Plan of Salvation

51:32 The Infinite Nature of God's Love and Atonement

59:50 Finding Purpose: The Importance of Personal Belief

In this episode, I interview my longtime friend Alex and his husband Parker, a married gay couple navigating life after Mormonism. Alex went on a mission, got sick, went through correction therapy, and came home thinking he was "healed." Parker attended BYU while they secretly dated for four years before publicly coming out when they got engaged. We talk about their different experiences growing up Mormon, how they define identity versus learned behavior, and how they've reframed their relationship with God from black-and-white rules to something much more loving, compassionate, and hippie-ish.

They share their journey toward having a baby through gestational surrogacy, including the heartbreak of their first miscarriage and the joy of their baby boy coming in September. We discuss what makes a "traditional family" and why love is really all that matters. Parker emphasizes that if a decision brings you happiness and you're being loving and kind, that's what God wants. Alex talks about learning to love his identity after years of trying to change it. Their final advice: live and let live, stop being critical, and let people make their own decisions even if you don't agree.

Brynne's Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/
Threads: @brynne_erickson

https://www.threads.com/@brynne_erickson?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Takeaways:

Parker and Alex have been together for over 10 years, navigating their relationship in a conservative environment.

Coming out experiences can vary greatly, with some being forced and others being more secure and self-driven.

Identity is a complex interplay of innate traits and learned behaviors, with love being a core component.

The couple emphasizes the importance of love and support in raising children, regardless of traditional family structures.

They believe that societal norms often complicate the understanding of family and identity.

Alex's journey involved significant challenges, including correction therapy and navigating his faith.

They stress the importance of empathy and understanding in discussions about non-traditional families.

Parenthood is a journey that requires preparation, love, and support from the community.

Ultimately, they advocate for living and letting live, encouraging acceptance and kindness. 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background of the Guests

03:04 Navigating Relationships and Coming Out

06:19 Identity and Self-Discovery

12:26 The Role of Religion and God in Identity

18:01 Support Systems and Family Dynamics

27:05 Exploring Beliefs and Spirituality

36:49 Exciting News: Welcoming a New Life

40:19 The Journey to Parenthood

43:44 Challenging Traditional Family Norms

57:25 The Essence of Love and Family Dynamics

In this episode, I share my journey of intentional becoming, exploring themes of love, acceptance, and identity, particularly in relation to the LGBTQ+ community. I reflect on my experiences as a mother, my understanding of religion, and the importance of agency in creating a fulfilling life. I emphasize the interconnectedness of individuals and the power of compassion and love in shaping our lives and communities.

Resources From This Episode:

🎙️Episode 18 of the Middle Ground With Brynne podcast

🎙️Episode 2 with Ryan Liston of the Middle Ground With Brynne podcast

Ben Schilaty: https://www.instagram.com/benschilaty?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

📕 Ben's Book: "A Walk in My Shoes" 

https://www.amazon.com/Walk-My-Shoes-Questions-Latter-day-ebook/dp/B08PNM4GFC

Charlie Bird: https://www.instagram.com/mrcharliebird?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

📕 Charlie's Audiobook: "Without The Mask"

https://www.amazon.com/Without-Mask-Coming-Into-Light/dp/B0F8C22DW8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2FYW2NGIU0026&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EfeCRXuLBJ5hSOrBjJEy3bAY89PY6ugLDHm2VyMdiey5lov-Wfjaxfa96ilCW61TR1vDGLDEmU58M-ap1gAo7HgH4iV7tK8QjpP-OKh3yTFxLy7fIHi7O-rUqu69avJNaYST3sFqkiPFaxNWLAiCIob2HjZHH_lAEGZSulYEw2JC_8ePY2rtaLKyPtzNGUxGgZHuX31KyhVuWQGOBSXmWTz133mXn2SP4ApvKgAQrsY.FYb5U0l_FXCjiDsA4eCRKMdnOMe3s2q7SY3oxyQ6r4I&dib_tag=se&keywords=without+the+mask&qid=1754927160&sprefix=without+the+mas%2Caps%2C177&sr=8-1

David Butler: https://www.instagram.com/mrdavebutler?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

✝️ David's World Religions Course: Holy Envy

https://www.dontmissthisstudy.com/holyenvyworldreligioncourse

🎙️Listen, Learn, and Love podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listen-learn-love-hosted-by-richard-ostler/id1347971725

📕 "Listen, Learn, and Love" by Richard Ostler:

https://www.amazon.com/Listen-Learn-Love-Embracing-Latter-day/dp/1462135773

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/

Threads: @brynne_erickson

https://www.threads.com/@brynne_erickson?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Takeaways:

Brynne reflects on her early morning experiences with family.

She discusses her journey of becoming a stay-at-home mom and exploring her identity.

Brynne emphasizes the importance of understanding love in all its forms.

She shares her gratitude for her brother's bravery in discovering who they are and want to be. 

Brynne highlights the significance of agency in creating one's life.

She questions the limitations imposed by traditional religious beliefs.

Brynne believes in the beauty of community and shared perspectives.

She draws parallels between parenting and divine love.

Brynne advocates for compassion and love as guiding principles.

She encourages listeners to embrace their agency and create their desired lives.

Chapters:

00:00 Morning Reflections and Family Dynamics

01:49 Journey of Intentional Becoming

06:54 Understanding Love and Acceptance

12:35 Exploring Faith and Agency

18:57 The Power of Choice and Co-Creation

In this episode, I share my personal experience of emotional resistance leading up to a family gathering at Bear Lake. I talk about the importance of acknowledging and processing emotions rather than suppressing them, emphasizing that emotions serve as valuable information about our needs. I highlight the significance of communication and self-advocacy in relationships, particularly in navigating motherhood and family dynamics. Ultimately, I encourage you to embrace your emotions, allowing for a more joyful and fulfilling life.

Brynne’s Social:

Facebook: @Brynne Erickson - my public page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573316550355

Instagram: @brynne_erickson

https://www.instagram.com/brynne_erickson/

Threads: @brynne_erickson

https://www.threads.com/@brynne_erickson?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Takeaways:

I had so much resistance to wanting to be here.

I didn't want to do all the hardships of motherhood.

I'd rather solve them, get to the root of it.

Emotions are just information about something important.

It usually only takes like 15 minutes to process.

Communication is so key in our relationships.

Emotions are not bad. They're just information.

Start looking inward, give yourself some time.

Have your pity party and then lean into gratitude.

You're awesome. Cheering you on.

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Family Gatherings and Emotional Resistance

02:58 Understanding and Processing Emotions

05:46 The Power of Communication and Self-Advocacy

12:08 Embracing Emotions for a Joyful Life