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 questioning
• The impact of cognitive dissonance and teenage rebellion
• Faith crisis triggered by issues like polygamy and racism in Mormonism
• The emotional toll of losing faith, including depression and loss of identity
• Rebuilding meaning through existentialism, love, and personal experience
• Navigating relationships with religious family and friends post-deconstruction
• The role of religion as a cognitive technology and its benefits
• Brit’s approach to “no-nonsense spirituality” and her book/podcast
• The importance of authenticity, boundaries, and bridge-building in interfaith relationships
• Embracing 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.

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