Post Mormon Peace

Tables Turned: Jourdan Interviews Derek

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.

Still Going to Church, Still Not Sure: Blake Lawler on Doubt, Duty, and Doing His Best

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
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Email: postmormonpeace@gmail.com

Two Sides of a Faith Story: My Wife’s Journey

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

Part Two with Steve Quesenberry: Love and Understanding

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

I Interviewed My Parents Previous Stake President: Steve Quesenberry

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

From CEO Alex Sharp-Beyond Religion: Finding Purpose, Morality, and Connection

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.

Bridging the Gap: What I Learned from Listening to My Mom

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.

Through My Mother's Eyes (Part Three): Creating a Culture of Unity

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 3That 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.

Through My Mother's Eyes (Part Two): Navigating Differences

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.

Through My Mother's Eyes (Part One): Foundations of Faith

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.