In this episode, Leslie welcomes back Brian Recker to discuss his new book, "Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love." Together, they dive into Brian’s journey from a strict evangelical upbringing to a more open, love-focused faith, exploring how fear-based teachings—especially the concept of hell—shape personal beliefs, relationships, and community dynamics. The conversation is honest, empathetic, and often humorous, offering practical tools for deconstructing harmful beliefs and encouraging listeners to embrace a spirituality rooted in love rather than fear. Whether you’re questioning your faith or just curious about new perspectives, this episode provides both thought-provoking insights and a sense of hope.

Bullet Points of Interest:

Brian’s background: Raised evangelical, former pastor, and now an author challenging traditional views on hell.
The main theme of the book: How fear of hell distorts Christian spirituality and relationships.
The paradigm shift: Moving from a punishment-based faith to one centered on love and acceptance.
Personal stories: Both Brian and the host share their experiences of deconstructing faith and the emotional toll it takes.
The impact of fear: How fear of hell shapes parenting, self-worth, and community dynamics.
Practical tools: Brian introduces reflective questions (inspired by Byron Katie) to help listeners interrogate their beliefs.
The metaphor of hell: Exploring hell as a spiritual and psychological experience, not just an afterlife destination.
The importance of community: Encouragement to process these questions with others, and info about a free study guide for group discussion.
Humor and empathy: Lighthearted moments about rapture predictions and the shared experience of spiritual anxiety.
A message of hope: It’s possible to move beyond fear and find a more loving, authentic faith.
Find Brians book on Amazon or Audible, available 9/30/25

Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease.

Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE.

Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here.

Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.com

If you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire.

Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here!

If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community! Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bypassing the Popularity Bias

Data Skeptic

Vision for an Ideal Recommender

The AI-powered Podcast Player