Explore every episode of the podcast Post Mormon Peace

What happens after the beliefs that once gave your life structure, meaning, and certainty no longer work for you?

In Part 2 of our conversation with Corey Buse, we follow his story from a committed returned missionary and young husband to the moment his wife, Emily, tells him she may be ready to leave the Church.

That forces Corey to examine his own faith from the ground up. We talk about the questions and church history that eventually changed his beliefs, but more importantly, we explore what came next.

How do you rebuild meaning without a prescribed plan? Where do values come from when the rules are no longer handed to you? How do you raise kids, navigate uncertainty, deal with difficult emotions, and decide what parts of your Mormon upbringing are still worth keeping?

This is a conversation about deconstruction, reconstruction, and learning to trust yourself enough to build a meaningful life without having all the answers.

What if loving someone means letting go of the need to change them?

In Part 2 of our conversation with Torn author Jeff Strong, we talk about one of the hardest parts of a faith transition: what happens between the people who leave and the people who stay.

Can a believing parent truly accept a child who walks away from the Church? Can someone who leaves make room for family members who still hope they return? And how do you stay close when neither side sees faith the same way anymore?

Jeff shares what changed in his own family after three of his five children left the Church, why certainty became less important to him over time, and how fear, humility, and acceptance can reshape relationships.

This is a conversation about loving people without fixing them, making room for different beliefs, and finding peace without requiring anyone to change their mind.

When Jeff Strong’s missionary son decided to come home and step away from the Church, it forced Jeff to confront questions he had already begun seeing in the lives of people around him.

In Part 1 of our conversation with the author of Torn, we talk about what his research uncovered about why active Latter-day Saints leave, how those reasons have changed over time, and why Jeff believes Church culture can either soften those struggles or make them much harder.

At the center of the conversation is a simple metaphor: culture is the soil we grow in. It can be firm enough to provide stability, but it also has to be nourishing enough for people to breathe, grow, and belong.

This is a conversation about faith, culture, fear, curiosity, and what it might look like to create more room for people whose experience of the Church does not fit the traditional mold.

In Part 1 of our conversation with Corey Buse, we go back to growing up Mormon in Utah in the 1990s, where church, family, friends, and community were all deeply intertwined.

Corey was raised with a strong emphasis on exact obedience and doing things the “right” way. That framework gave him discipline and conviction, but it also shaped how he approached friendships, differences, and eventually his mission.

Serving in New Jersey exposed Corey to people who saw religion very differently than he did. For the first time, he began asking what the gospel looked like from the other side of the doorstep. A change in mission leadership also challenged his assumptions about rules, obedience, and what actually makes someone an effective missionary.

Corey didn't come home from his mission having lost his faith. In many ways, he came home more committed than ever. But he also came home seeing more gray in a world he'd once understood largely in black and white.

This is Part 1 of Corey's story. In Part 2, we follow what happened as those early shifts in perspective eventually became something much bigger.

In this episode, Chad describes the heartbreak and uncertainty of navigating a mixed-orientation marriage, divorce, single parenthood, and an entirely new relationship with the person who had been his closest companion. He also shares how he and Sierra eventually built a strong friendship and co-parenting partnership on the other side.   This is a conversation about accepting someone for who they are, finding stability when life comes apart, and allowing love to change shape instead of turning it into resentment.  

Content Warning: This episode contains some strong language and candid discussion of past drug use, divorce, sexuality, and other mature themes. Listener discretion is advised.

   

In this solo episode, Derek reflects on what peace has started to look like several years after leaving the LDS Church.

After moving back to Utah and finding himself surrounded by Mormon culture again, he noticed something changing. Instead of only seeing the parts of the Church he disagrees with, he’s becoming more willing to recognize what he still appreciates about it.

That shift raises some bigger questions: What does religion provide that may be difficult to recreate outside of it? How do we pass values on to our children without requiring them to share our worldview? And can we become secure enough in our own beliefs that we no longer need the people around us to agree with us?

Derek explores self-acceptance, uncertainty, raising kids after a faith transition, learning from criticism, and the freedom that can come from admitting, “I don’t know.”

Maybe peace isn’t finally having all the answers. Maybe it’s becoming comfortable enough with ourselves to remain open to people, ideas, and even the possibility that we might change our minds.

Why do people really leave the LDS Church—and how well do believing members understand their reasons?

In this episode of Post-Mormon Peace, Derek Williams and Jordan Smith discuss Torn: Why People We Love Are Leaving the Church and What We Can Learn from Them by Jeff Strong.

Drawing on thousands of survey responses and interviews, Torn explores the growing number of people disengaging from the Church and, perhaps more importantly, the disconnect between why believing members think people leave and the reasons former members actually give.

Derek and Jordan dig into some of the book’s most interesting findings, including the role of church history and truth claims, moral and social disagreements, difficult church experiences, and the surprisingly small percentage of people who say they left simply because they wanted a different lifestyle.

But the conversation goes beyond the statistics.

How do you maintain a meaningful relationship when someone you love sees the Church completely differently than you do? Can believing members genuinely accept someone’s decision to leave while still hoping they return? And can former members extend that same curiosity and empathy toward those who continue to believe?

Derek and Jordan also discuss what Torn gets right, where they think it falls short, and why learning to listen without trying to persuade may be one of the most important skills for both believing and post-Mormon families.

Plus, they share some exciting news: Torn author Jeff Strong will be joining Post-Mormon Peace for an upcoming episode.

Whether you're an active member, former member, somewhere in between, or trying to understand someone you love, this conversation is ultimately about something bigger than deciding who is right: learning how to understand each other and protect the relationships that matter most.

In this episode of Post Mormon Peace, we explore what it really means to meet in the middle when beliefs, identities, and experiences diverge. Rather than arguing to be right or trying to change someone’s mind, we talk about how curiosity, empathy, and genuine listening create bridges across ideological and religious divides. We share a personal story about navigating a political disagreement with a close friend — not by debating, but by asking questions to understand his why.

This conversation challenges the idea that people leaving a faith tradition need to remain quiet, neutral, or distant to maintain peace. Instead, we discuss how connection and mutual respect can thrive even when beliefs have changed. Whether you’re navigating family relationships, friendships, or community spaces, this episode offers practical tools for staying grounded, communicating with compassion, and recognizing shared humanity across differences.

Keywords: post-mormon, faith transition, religious differences, communication, empathy, curiosity, bridge-building, relationships, understanding.

From the outside, it can look like I’ve built a perfectly peaceful life of open conversations and harmony. The truth? Choosing openness often means choosing discomfort. In this episode, I talk about what peace actually looks like in practice—the messy parts, the triggers, and the moments I’d rather keep my mouth shut.

I share recent stories with a sibling, my dad, a close friend, my wife, and a raw moment with my mom where I snapped, then called back to apologize. You’ll hear how I’m learning to zoom out (think S&P 500 growth curve) and keep “coming back to the table”—again and again. Peace isn’t the absence of conflict; it’s a commitment to connection, repair, and telling the truth with love.

If you’ve ever stayed silent too long, lost your cool, or said something you regret, this one’s for you.

Highlights / Takeaways

Peace is an internal practice, not a perfect outcome.

Triggers happen; repair is what keeps relationships growing.

“Coming back to the table” > “winning” the conversation.

Zoom out: judge growth over years, not days.

Apologizing doesn’t erase convictions—it deepens connection.

Gentle Note

This episode includes candid reflections on LDS culture/leadership from my current perspective. If you’re a believing member and that feels tender right now, feel free to skip—or listen with curiosity and care.

Call to Action

Got a story to share? I’d love to hear from you or have you on the show: postmormonpeace@gmail.com

In this heartfelt follow-up episode, Derek sits down once again with his teenage daughter, Ashlyn, for an open conversation about how parenting in their family has evolved—especially since leaving the Mormon church.

They explore the transformation from a model of correction and control to one centered on love, trust, open communication, and emotional freedom. Derek shares insights from working with coach Steve Hardison and discusses how one powerful shift in focus—“my sole and primary purpose as a parent is to love and accept my children”—has changed everything.

Ashlyn brings her honest, thoughtful perspective as she reflects on what it’s like being parented in this environment of emotional safety. From decision-making and self-criticism to arguments with siblings and the importance of feeling heard, Ashlyn offers a wise and articulate voice of her own growth and the strength of their evolving family dynamic.

In this special episode, Derek invites his 14-year-old daughter Ashlyn onto the podcast for a vulnerable and illuminating conversation about what it was like to grow up in the LDS Church and then face the family’s transition out of it.

Ashlyn offers her personal reflections on what the church meant to her, how she experienced the family's decision to leave, and how her worldview has shifted since. With impressive depth and emotional honesty, she opens up about feelings of shock, confusion, sadness, betrayal, and ultimately growth—providing rare insight into how a thoughtful teen navigates a major faith transition.

This episode is a must-listen for any post-Mormon parent trying to understand what it’s like for kids to process religious change, and how to better support them through it.

In this introspective and candid episode, Jordan takes the interviewer seat to explore Derek’s journey in launching the Post-Mormon Peace podcast. The discussion uncovers the emotional and logistical challenges of speaking publicly about leaving Mormonism, especially after moving back into Utah County with young children. Derek shares his motivations, inner fears, and the mindset shifts that helped him push forward.

Together, they delve deep into topics like acceptance, navigating relationships post-faith transition, the importance of self-love, and fostering meaningful dialogue with those who remain in the church. The episode stands as both a personal reflection and a practical guide for others navigating similar journeys.

Email: postmormonpeace@gmail.com with topic suggestions or guest recommendations.

Share the podcast with friends or family members you’d like to engage in deeper conversations with.

What happens when the life you've built around your faith begins to crack — and you're no longer sure if you believe?

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Derek reconnects with Blake Lawler, a fellow former missionary and dentist, who opens up about his journey navigating a crisis of faith within a devoted LDS family. Blake shares how one quiet moment of research unraveled deeply held beliefs, the emotional toll of carrying doubts in silence, and the complexities of being a father and husband when your beliefs no longer align with your family's.

This episode explores:

The emotional weight of doubting in silence

How to support a believing spouse while deconstructing

Raising children with integrity and openness

Finding peace, purpose, and growth beyond belief

Whether you're questioning, believing, or somewhere in between, Blake's honesty will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and less alone.

Reach out to Blake at blake.lawlor@gmail.com

👉 Follow and share your thoughts:

Instagram: @postmormonpeace

Facebook: Post Mormon Peace Podcast

Email: postmormonpeace@gmail.com

This might be one of the most important conversations we’ve had on the podcast. I interview my wife, Jenny, as she tells her story—what it was like growing up in a faith she loved, how she handled my early doubts, and what eventually led to her own deconstruction. Her story is full of grace, struggle, and transformation. Whether you’re in the middle of your own faith shift or just want to better understand a loved one, this conversation is for you.

Reach out to Jenny at jennymwilliams1@gmail.com

Reach out to us at postmormonpeace@gmail.com

In the second part of my conversation with Steve Questenberry, we dive deep into the complexities of faith transitions—both for those leaving the church and for those who remain. Steve shares his experiences working with individuals questioning their faith, the importance of open dialogue, and how love and understanding can heal divides. We also discuss the power of listening without an agenda, personal growth through difficult conversations, and the lessons he has learned as a leader, father, and friend.

🎧 Topics covered: ✔️ The role of fear and defensiveness in faith transitions ✔️ How both sides of the conversation can experience pain and growth ✔️ The importance of listening and loving without expectations ✔️ Finding peace with uncertainty and embracing life’s journey

Reach out to Steve at: steve@kittsgroup.com

In this episode, I sit down for an in-person conversation with Steve Questenberry, former stake president and lifelong seeker of understanding. Steve shares his personal journey—from growing up in a troubled home in San Diego to joining the LDS Church as a teenager and later serving as a bishop and stake president. We discuss his faith journey, the impact of family dynamics on belief, and how he navigated the challenges of leadership within the church. Steve also reflects on the importance of understanding history, the impact of the Joseph Smith Papers, and the evolving landscape of faith within the LDS Church.

🎧 Topics covered: ✔️ Steve’s conversion story and family dynamics ✔️ Seeking answers and the role of personal faith ✔️ Navigating leadership and change within the church ✔️ The impact of the Joseph Smith Papers on historical understanding

Reach out to Steve at: steve@kittsgroup.com

In this episode, Derek Williams sits down with friend and boss, Alex Sharp to discuss personal growth, belief systems, and the search for meaning. They explore the balance between faith and skepticism, how childhood experiences shape our moral compass, and the power of focus and intentionality in life and business.

In this episode, Derek reflects on his conversations with his mom for the Post-Mormon Peace Podcast. Initially hoping to help those who left the church understand the other side, he instead found a deeper lesson in listening and empathy. He shares how shifting his approach—from defending a perspective to simply understanding—transformed the dialogue. Derek also explores how belief shapes reality, generational differences in processing faith, and the challenges of navigating family discussions with peace.

In the final episode of this three-part series, Derek and Ruth Ann explore how their family has cultivated an atmosphere of mutual respect, love, and acceptance despite differing beliefs. They share practical strategies, lessons learned, and key moments that helped their family grow closer together. This episode is an inspiring testament to the power of open communication, listening, and choosing unity over division.

Books Mentioned in Episode 3 That We May Be One: A Gay Mormon's Perspective on Faith and Family by Tom Christofferson

Description: Tom Christofferson, brother of Elder D. Todd Christofferson, shares his journey as a gay member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The book focuses on his experiences with faith, family, and reconciling his identity, highlighting the possibility of unconditional love within families despite differing beliefs or lifestyles.

Bridges: Ministering to Those Who Question by David B. Ostler

Description: Written by a former stake president, this book explores how members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can build bridges of understanding with those experiencing doubts or leaving the Church. It provides practical insights and strategies for fostering empathy, love, and meaningful conversations.

Derek and Ruth Ann continue their conversation, diving into the emotional and relational dynamics of navigating faith differences within a family. Ruth Ann reflects on the challenges of seeing her children take different paths and the pivotal moments that shaped her responses. Through candid storytelling, they discuss love, acceptance, and the personal growth that comes with facing hard truths and finding peace.

in this candid and heartfelt episode, I sit down with my mom, Ruth Ann Williams, to explore her journey of faith, parenting, and love. We dive into her experiences as a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the values she worked to instill in our family, and the challenges she faced raising children in a world that is ever-changing.

This conversation offers a glimpse into the other side of the dialogue—the perspective of a loving parent, doing their best to nurture faith and provide structure, often shaped by the values and expectations of their generation.

Together, we reflect on moments of connection, generational differences in views on faith, and the importance of open communication in understanding one another. It was a healing and enlightening discussion that deepened my appreciation for her efforts and her unwavering commitment to love and family.

Meditation has been one of the greatest contributors to my personal growth in recent years. In this episode, I talk about how my understanding of meditation evolved from seeing it as a way to de-stress to viewing it as a practice that trains the mind and opens doors to peace and mindfulness. I’ll share practical tips, insights from neuroscience, and the Zen principle of the 'beginner’s mind' to help you start or deepen your practice. If you’re ready to explore the benefits of meditation for your sleep, focus, and overall well-being, tune in.

Is truth subjective? Is there a benefit to viewing certain aspects of life in this light?

In this episode, Jordan Smith joins me to share his story of navigating a faith transition and the profound changes it brought to his life. We talk about the initial struggles, the emotional journey of self-reflection, and how he found new meaning outside of structured religion. Jordan’s insights into parenting, relationships, and finding peace through physical and mental well-being offer valuable lessons for anyone on a journey of self-discovery. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion about growth, trust, and living authentically.

In this episode, Jordan Smith joins me to share his story of navigating a faith transition and the profound changes it brought to his life. We talk about the initial struggles, the emotional journey of self-reflection, and how he found new meaning outside of structured religion. Jordan’s insights into parenting, relationships, and finding peace through physical and mental well-being offer valuable lessons for anyone on a journey of self-discovery. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion about growth, trust, and living authentically.

Derek shares a list of the most influential books he personally read that helped navigate peacefully through changes in his beliefs.

In the premiere episode of Post Mormon Peace, Derek shares his story.

In this opening intro to Post Mormon Peace, Derek explains the idea behind the podcast and what you can expect from episodes in the future.