Olivia Jackson - Stories of Deconstructing Faith (N295)
Apr 20, 2023
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Olivia Jackson, a researcher on faith deconstruction, discusses her journey to support others grappling with similar issues. She highlights the importance of a collective memoir, drawing from over 140 individual stories to provide hope and connection. The conversation delves into the emotional complexities of navigating belief systems, overcoming shame, and the liberation found in questioning traditional dogmas. With humor and vulnerability, Olivia and the hosts explore how community shapes personal journeys and the unique challenges of spiritual deconstruction.
Olivia Jackson's research highlights the importance of sharing collective stories to foster healing and solidarity in faith deconstruction.
The podcast discusses how deconstructing faith often leads to shifts in personal relationships, impacting trust and communication with loved ones.
Both Joy and Tim reflect on embracing a more open and fluid understanding of spirituality, moving away from rigid faith structures.
Deep dives
Technical Challenges and Lessons Learned
The hosts discuss the technical difficulties faced during the recording of their podcast, particularly the unexpected shutdown of Joy's recording device due to low battery. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of checking equipment, leading to moments of self-reflection about their podcasting journey. They both acknowledge how such challenges can serve as valuable learning experiences, contributing to their growth as podcasters. The light-hearted nature of their conversation underscores the camaraderie and understanding they share as co-hosts.
Personal Growth Through New Experiences
Joy shares her recent experience of attending an away day at the Eden Project as part of her new job in the public sector, highlighting how it felt refreshing to engage in activities outside her daily routine. The positive impact of being in a botanical setting and participating in team-building exercises, such as body scans to explore personal values, is emphasized. This experience signifies a greater sense of fulfillment and joy in her professional life, as she reflects on how going to such places has invigorated her perspective. In contrast, Tim shares his upcoming hip surgery and the challenges associated with recovery but expresses a positive outlook on the downtime it offers for relaxation.
Exploring Deconstruction and Collective Narratives
Joy introduces her conversation with Olivia Jackson, whose book 'Uncertain' delves into the collective experiences of those undergoing faith deconstruction. Olivia’s meticulous research involved gathering responses from nearly 400 individuals, offering a platform where diverse voices can be heard, highlighting themes of change in personal faith journeys. The concept of a collective memoir captures the essence of shared struggles and hopes amidst diverse backgrounds and experiences. This collective approach allows readers to find solidarity in their own journeys while learning from the rich tapestry of narratives presented.
Impact of Deconstruction on Relationships
Listeners are informed about how deconstructing faith often leads to significant shifts in personal relationships, with Joy noting how many people experience erosion of trust and deeper misunderstandings with their loved ones. Olivia reflects on how some individuals have faced estrangement from family members and friends during their journeys, experiencing difficulty in discussing their evolving beliefs. The importance of connecting with supportive communities becomes apparent as individuals seek to rebuild relationships based on new understandings. These changes can be both challenging and liberating, opening the door to new friendships while closing others.
The Healing Power of Storytelling
The conversation highlights the transformative effects of sharing stories in the healing journey of those experiencing faith deconstruction. Olivia’s interviews reveal that individuals often find comfort and validation in hearing similar experiences from others, emphasizing the communal aspect of healing. There is a significant focus on the emotional weight carried by the stories of trauma, but also the hope and resilience that arise from them. This sharing of experiences fosters a sense of belonging among those navigating their own complex journeys, illustrating the power of collective narrative.
Navigating the Future with Openness
As the conversation evolves, both Joy and Tim express their willingness to remain open to new experiences and understandings of spirituality without feeling pressured to reach definitive conclusions. They reflect on their previous faith practices which revolved heavily around rigid structures, contrasting that with a newfound freedom to explore without confinement. The importance of allowing personal journeys to unfold at their own pace is discussed, illustrating a desire to embrace the complexity and beauty of belief systems. By focusing on values such as justice, compassion, and community, their journeys reflect a deeper commitment to living authentically.
Frustrated at the lack of literature on faith deconstruction, Olivia Jackson carried out her own research as she sought to provide hope and solidarity to others on a similar journey. Here she talks about her own story, alongside the impact of receiving hundreds of questionnaires and listening to 140 individual experiences in order to draw together 'a collective memoir of deconstructing faith'.
Following the interview, Nomad hosts Tim Nash and Joy Brooks consider their own experiences and how connecting with the wider story affects their view of deconstruction.