
Honoring the Journey
Life is a journey, and we’re all walking our own unique path. But every now and then, we get the chance to step onto someone else’s path, to see the world from their perspective, and to learn from their experiences. That’s what we do here on Honoring the Journey. We walk alongside others, explore their stories, and then step back onto our own path—hopefully with new insights, deeper understanding, and a broader perspective for the journey ahead. Honoring the Journey is hosted by Leslie Nease, a former Christian Radio Host, Speaker & Writer and Contestant on Survivor China known as "Sister Christian". Leslie has since deconstructed her Evangelical beliefs, but is still deeply connected to God and is seeking to understand faith from every perspective. Let's journey together!
Latest episodes

Apr 28, 2025 • 1h 44min
Finally Free: Honoring the Journey of Plumb
Today, we honor the journey of Plumb, the recording artist who Leslie used to play on the air when she was in Christian Radio. The conversation unveils Plumb’s transformative journey from her evangelical roots to becoming a fierce advocate for authenticity, kindness, and marginalized communities. Plumb shares her struggles with conformity, her evolution in beliefs about love and religion, and the impact of her divorce on her career and personal growth. The episode is a rich tapestry of vulnerability, resilience, and unwavering commitment to living truthfully and loving unconditionally, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace their paths with courage and compassion. The ladies also talk about Plumb’s new single, “Free”, a song that Leslie says is “her new anthem”! You can hear this song HERE!Follow Plumb on InstagramPick up merchandise on Plumb's online store
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Apr 24, 2025 • 58min
Finding Self-Acceptance: Honoring the Journey of Gary Mai
Gary Mai, an inspiring podcaster and member of the LGBTQIA community, is our guest today on Honoring the Journey. Gary shares his compelling life story, marked by early childhood trauma, struggles with identity, and a long, arduous journey towards self-acceptance. The discussion delves into Gary's experiences growing up in a conservative religious environment, grappling with his sexuality, and ultimately finding solace and purpose through faith and the creation of his podcast. Leslie and Gary explore the deep impact of deconstructing religious beliefs, the transformative power of storytelling, and the importance of finding a supportive community. This conversation is a testament to resilience and the beauty that can emerge from overcoming life’s most challenging moments.Hear Gary's Podcast HERE.
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Apr 21, 2025 • 1h 2min
Coming Out & Standing Up: Honoring the Journey of Mike Maeshiro
Today on Honoring the Journey, we have a deep conversation with Mike Maeshiro, a former ministry leader at Bethel and founder of the NUMA Foundation. We discussed his extraordinary journey of leaving evangelicalism, coming to terms with his sexuality, and navigating the complexities of his faith and identity within a conservative Christian framework. Mike shared deeply personal stories about his traumatic experiences with conversion therapy, the struggle of living a double life, and the eventual liberation he found in embracing his true self. Our dialogue touched on the importance of authenticity, the misinterpretation of biblical texts surrounding homosexuality, and the hope for a more inclusive and understanding religious community. Mike's story is a testament to the courage it takes to walk away from oppressive systems and to advocate for a more loving, accepting society.Learn more about Mike on his website: www.Mikemaeshiro.com.
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Apr 16, 2025 • 1h 5min
Is the Age of Aquarius Biblical? Honoring the Journey Bonus Episode
Today, we welcome back Logan Barone to delve into the controversial topic of astrology, especially in the context of an evangelical upbringing. We discuss the historical and biblical underpinnings of astrology, contrasting them with the misconceptions held within certain religious communities. The conversation shifts to the significance of the Age of Aquarius, exploring its impact on spiritual awakening, individual divinity, and the shift away from institutionalized religion towards a more personal spiritual experience. To apply these insights, listeners are encouraged to explore astrology with an open mind, consider meditation practices to connect with their intuition, and recognize the cyclical nature of spiritual and historical transitions found within the pages of the Bible.
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Apr 14, 2025 • 1h 15min
Transformative Spiritual Awakening: Honoring the Journey of Logan Barone
In this episode, we meet Logan Barone, a spiritual life coach, bestselling author, and former evangelical minister who underwent a transformative spiritual journey. The discussion delves into Logan's personal experiences, which catalyzed his deconstruction from rigid religious beliefs toward a spiritual awakening that emphasizes living in the present moment and embracing inner divinity. Key application points include the importance of trusting one's intuitive heart, the necessity of personal transformation as a catalyst for collective change, and the value of meditation in discovering one's true self. Logan shares insights on overcoming fear-based indoctrination, deconstructing harmful beliefs, and the transformative power of love and acceptance in personal spiritual growth.Find out more about Logan at www.loganbarone.com
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Apr 10, 2025 • 53min
Authenticity & Courage: Charlotte Dalwood's Journey through Gender, Mental Health & Faith
In this bonus episode, we honor the journey of Charlotte Dalwood—a speaker and writer whose journey is both deeply personal and incredibly moving. Charlotte opens up about what it was like growing up as a trans woman in a conservative evangelical home, navigating mental health struggles, gender dysphoria, and the path to embracing her true self. This conversation is raw, honest, and full of heart. We talk about the courage it takes to live authentically, the importance of creating safe, supportive spaces, and how simply listening—without judgment—can be a life-changing act. Charlotte’s vulnerability reminds us of the healing power of sharing our stories and the connection that happens when we hold space for one another. Whether you're walking through a similar journey or just want to understand more deeply, this episode invites you into a conversation about empathy, acceptance, and the beauty of becoming who you truly are.Find out more about Charlotte and pick up her book, Until at Dawn We Wake, on her website: www.CharlotteDalwood.com.
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Apr 7, 2025 • 53min
Out of the Blue: Honoring the Journey of Mary Terhune
In this episode of "Honoring the Journey," Leslie welcomes Mary Terhune to discuss her profound experiences of spiritual awakening and transformation, as detailed in her book "Out of the Blue." Mary shares her journey from traditional religious upbringing to experiencing divine revelations that redefined her understanding of consciousness and healing. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of connecting with nature, the concept of consciousness-based medicine, and the transformative power of love. This episode encourages listeners to explore their inner spirituality, question conventional beliefs, and embrace holistic healing practices for personal growth and well-being.You can find out more about Mary and her book, Out of the Blue, on her website! www.MaryTerhune.com
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Mar 31, 2025 • 1h 1min
A Progressive Pastor Talks Deconstruction: Honoring the Journey of Zach Lambert
Today we honor the journey of Zach Lambert, the lead pastor and founder of Restore Church in Austin, Texas. Leslie & Zach chat about his background, exploring his spiritual journey from a disenchanted youth in a conservative Southern Baptist environment to becoming a progressive church leader focused on justice, inclusivity, and a holistic interpretation of the gospel. They also discuss the challenges of deconstructing and reconstructing faith, the balance of maintaining relationships with family, and the intricacies of setting healthy boundaries. Leslie and Zach reflect on the broader implications of their faith journeys and how they contribute to a more inclusive, compassionate expression of Christianity.Check out Post-Evangelical CollectiveFind out more about out Zach and Restore Austin
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Mar 24, 2025 • 1h 7min
Finding Myself: Honoring the Journey of Peter Fenton
Today on Honoring the Journey, Leslie interviews Peter Fenton, delving into his journey from their serendipitous meeting through his evolving identity and professional pursuits. Peter, a playwright, director and screenwriter shares his unique perspective shaped by a complex upbringing in a conservative evangelical environment. The conversation weaves through Peter's childhood loves, like Mario Party and Survivor, his transformative college years, and his eventual discovery and acceptance of his sexual orientation. It also touches upon broader themes of spirituality, rejection, and personal growth. Peter’s mission to make people laugh and think stands out as a central motif throughout their heartwarming and thought-provoking conversation.Find out more about Peter and his work at www.bypeterfenton.com!
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!

Mar 17, 2025 • 1h 16min
Finding Purpose After Pain: Honoring the Journey of Amanda Carroll
Today on "Honoring the Journey," we welcome Amanda Carroll, a fellow-former-Christian Radio gal who Leslie met online and realized quickly that she wanted to know more about her faith and life journey! Amanda is the founder of the Single Mom Collective, a podcast and online community dedicated to empowering single mothers. Amanda shares her inspiring story, detailing her extensive career in radio, her struggles and triumphs as a single mother, and her journey through faith deconstruction. Together, Leslie and Amanda delve into the challenges and rewards of navigating life after leaving Christian radio, the importance of authentic spirituality, and the critical need for love and support in overcoming life's hardships. Their candid conversation also highlights how they've transformed their personal and professional experiences to help others find their path.Brave Single Mom YouTube Sign Up for Brave Single Mom Newsletter with AmandaPodcasts and Blogs with AmandaFREE E-booksBrave Single Mom Journal and Planner on Amazon
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.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!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!
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