In this episode of the Un Holier Podcast, host Jenny Smith sits down with Luke Roberts (known to many as LJR) for a raw and vulnerable conversation about the cost of losing your faith—and the beauty of finding yourself.

Luke spent years at the front of the sanctuary as a worship leader, but behind the scenes, the foundation of his evangelical upbringing was cracking. Today, he shares the intimate details of his deconstruction journey, the painful process of leaving the church, and how he eventually reconstructed a life centered on healing and authentic spirituality.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The turning point: When Luke realized he could no longer stay.
• The "Worship Leader" identity crisis.
• How music became a tool for healing rather than just performance.
• Practical advice for anyone feeling trapped in a belief system that no longer fits.
• What "Reconstruction" actually looks like on the other side.

Whether you are currently questioning your faith, have already left, or are just looking for a story of radical honesty, Luke’s journey offers a roadmap for moving from fear to freedom.

#Deconstruction #FaithJourney #Healing #LJRMusic #UnHolierPodcast

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/ljr/818886974

https://www.instagram.com/lukejustinroberts?igsh=cGhmemkxeWwwZDF5

https://www.tiktok.com/@lukejustinroberts?_r=1&_t=ZP-93B856aA9lf

In this episode of the Un Holier Podcast, hosts Jenny Smith and Bible expert Justin dive deep into the complexities and controversies surrounding Bible translations, with a special focus on the King James Version (KJV). They explore the historical context, common translation errors, and hidden agendas in the creation of the KJV. Justin provides a comprehensive presentation on why newer translations might be more accurate, and they answer listener questions about the best Bible translations for today. Whether you're deeply religious, spiritually curious, or a history enthusiast, this episode promises to be both informative and eye-opening.

https://www.youtube.com/@dzdebates

Welcome to a very special episode of the Un Holier Podcast. To kick off 2026, I’m joined by my favorite guest—my husband! Together, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to revisit our most hilarious (and slightly embarrassing) New Year’s Eve moments.

But it’s not all just laughs. We’re getting real about our 2026 resolutions, from the bad habits we’re finally ditching to the realistic goals we’re actually hoping to keep this year. Stick around for a high-energy Rapid-Fire Q&A that might reveal a few things we didn't even know about each other!

Whether you’re recovering from your NYE party or setting your own intentions for the year, grab a drink, get comfortable, and let's toast to a promising year ahead. #NewYear2026 #UnHolierPodcast #NewYearsResolutions #CoupleGoals #FunnyMemories #NewYearNewMe #PodcastLife #MarriageHumor

Have you ever felt trapped by religion? In this raw and unfiltered interview, we sit down with JC Groves, a brave pastor who escaped the clutches of the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) movement. From a life of strict religious indoctrination to a powerful spiritual awakening, JC’s story will challenge everything you think you know about faith.

We'll uncover the secrets of the IFB's legalistic practices, hear breathtaking stories of personal transformation, and reveal the man-made rules often disguised as biblical truth. If you've been hurt by religious control or are questioning your own faith journey, this video is a beacon of hope.

Join us as JC shares his new mission with the 'Following the Way Podcast,' dedicated to helping you build an authentic relationship with Jesus, free from the burdens of religious tradition.

Don't just listen—be transformed. Like, share, and subscribe to get your spiritual freedom back!

#ReligiousTrauma #SpiritualAwakening #IFB #IndependentFundamentalBaptist #Exvangelical #Christianity #Christian #Podcast #FaithJourney #ReligiousFreedom #Jesus #Legalism 

In this episode, the host welcomes Jenny as she shares her harrowing journey growing up in the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) movement. Jenny's story details her family's deep roots in IFB, the strict and oppressive rules she faced, and the challenges of living under a legalistic and controlling environment. She recounts traumatic experiences, including a public shaming at youth camp, and a disastrous, abusive marriage arranged within the IFB framework. Despite the adversity, Jenny discusses how she sought therapy, found her confidence and sexuality, and eventually escaped the confines of abuse, rebuilding her life. The conversation also touches upon her current views on religion, her relationship with God outside of organized religion, and her path to greater self-awareness and healing. Finally, the episode ends on a lighter note with rapid-fire questions about her newfound discoveries and experiences after leaving the IFB.

Did the Church RUIN Her Life?! 😱 Author Catherine Brusk Reveals the TRUTH About Growing Up Christian | Unholier Podcast

In this explosive episode, host Jenny Smith sits down with bestselling author Catherine Brusk to peel back the curtain on her tumultuous religious past. Catherine holds NOTHING BACK as she details the jarring whiplash of attending a strict Christian school while navigating a more "relaxed" non-denominational church.

Discover the shocking ways this dual life forced her to constantly adapt and hide her true self—and the devastating impact it had on her relationships and family life.

We dive deep into the messy, painful, and ultimately freeing process of DECONSTRUCTION. How do you forgive teachings that caused so much trauma? Catherine shares the powerful healing journey that inspired her six books on trauma, forgiveness, and personal growth.

💔 If you've ever questioned your faith or struggled with religious trauma, this is the raw, heartfelt conversation you need to hear.

WATCH NOW to hear Catherine's story of surviving, deconstructing, and finally finding freedom! #religion #trauma #deconstructing #bookauthor #podcast

https://www.catherinebrusk.com

In this deeply personal and uncomfortable episode, hosts David and Jenny address a serious issue affecting the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI) community. They reveal that a former podcast guest has been embellishing their survival story to gain attention and scam community members, particularly vulnerable women, out of money. Despite the sensitive nature of the topic, David and Jenny provide insights and share their mission to bring awareness and change to TTI institutions. They also extend their support to survivors impacted by such deceitful actions. Ending on a positive note, they mention ongoing initiatives like the Survivors Unrestrained organization and an upcoming federal bill aimed at reforming the troubled teen industry. If you're passionate about making a difference and protecting vulnerable communities, this is an episode you don't want to miss. #troubledteen #parishilton #dirtyjohn

In this episode of the Un Holier Podcast, host Jenny Smith sits down with Tabitha, a survivor of the troubled teen industry who spent time at Tranquility Bay in Jamaica. Tabitha shares her journey of growth and resilience, discussing her mixed emotions about the recent hurricane that hit Jamaica and the lasting impact of her experiences. The episode highlights Tabitha's impressive efforts in creating a grassroots organization and working towards a federal bill aimed at reforming the troubled teen industry. The conversation delves into the specifics of the proposed legislation, which seeks to provide better protections for teens, ban out-of-country placements, and ensure mental health facilities are properly regulated. Jenny and Tabitha also discuss practical advice for parents dealing with difficult teens, emphasizing the importance of finding the right therapeutic approach. Tune in to learn more about how you can support this impactful cause. #survivors #podcast #tti #parishilton

https://www.change.org/p/pass-the-protect-kids-act-protect-children-in-youth-residential-program s?recruiter=1395789295&recruited _ by_ id=a3986430-c44b-11f0-82c5-19d258e4bb7f&utm sour _ ce=share _petition&utm _ campaign=petition dashboard&utm _ _ medium=copylink

In a special episode of the Un Holier Podcast, host Jenny Smith is joined by her husband, Ryan (aka Smitty), to discuss their vastly different upbringings. Jenny was raised in a religious environment while Ryan wasn't exposed to church at all. They share personal stories, delve into the challenges and growth in their marriage, and discuss their experiences with various church environments. The couple also touches on the impacts of religious trauma and their journey of finding their own way. Whether you’re familiar with IFB, curious about different religious practices, or just enjoy heartfelt discussions, this episode offers intimate and insightful conversations. #UnHolierPodcast #ReligiousTrauma #MarriageTalk #DifferentUpbringings #PodcastEpisode

In this emotionally charged episode of The Holier podcast, host Jenny Smith sits down with Justin Woodbury, an old friend from their days in the Christian school. Justin opens up about his harrowing experiences within the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) Church, specifically the Ann Arbor Baptist Church in Michigan. Through a candid conversation, Justin shares the deeply disturbing events of abuse he endured, his journey to healing, and his resolve to help others through his book, 'Sheltered But Not Protected.' Trigger warning: This episode discusses abuse within the church. Viewer discretion is advised. #IFB #AbuseSurvivor #EndHolier #ChristianSchool #CultSurvivor #SurvivorStories #ReligiousTrauma #ChurchAbuse #HealingJourney

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1662929765?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_sms_apin_dp_5XR24WS10N3WTX0A8GJQ&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_sms_apin_dp_5XR24WS10N3WTX0A8GJQ&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_sms_apin_dp_5XR24WS10N3WTX0A8GJQ&bestFormat=true&titleSource=true