There are parts of ourselves that feel easy to share—and parts that feel sacred enough that we protect them quietly.
This episode lives in that second category.
For a long time, I’ve avoided talking publicly about my faith. Not because I’m ashamed of it, but because religion is deeply personal—and because every time I’ve mentioned it before, I’ve been met with misunderstanding, assumptions, and sometimes outright hostility.
But if this podcast is about showing up fully and honestly, then this is a part of my story I can’t keep skipping.
So yes.
I’m a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
And yes—most people are surprised by that.
Why I’m Sharing This Now
Let me be clear from the start: this episode is not a debate.
I’m not here to convert anyone.
I’m not interested in arguing theology in comment sections.
My goal is simple—to explain what I actually believe, clear up common misconceptions, and share how faith fits into my life.
Faith, for me, isn’t a talking point. It’s a relationship. And while I’ve kept that relationship mostly private, it’s also shaped who I am in ways that matter.
What “LDS” Actually Means
LDS stands for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Most people know us as “Mormons,” a nickname that comes from the Book of Mormon.
I don’t personally get offended by the term Mormon. I know what people mean. But the reason our church emphasizes its full name is simple—we want Jesus Christ at the center of it.
And yes, we are Christian.
Believing in and following Jesus Christ is foundational to everything we believe.
My Conversion Story (Because I Didn’t Grow Up Religious)
This surprises a lot of people: I didn’t grow up in the church.
I didn’t even get baptized until after college.
Looking back, my journey started way earlier than I realized. Some of my closest friends growing up were LDS. Their families welcomed me without pressure, without agendas—just love.
Years later, during Teach for America, I found myself surrounded again by people quietly living their faith. I noticed something important: when church was part of my life, my life felt better. Clearer. More grounded.
I asked questions—lots of them. I challenged things. I studied. I prayed. And eventually, I chose baptism for myself.
No pressure.
No ultimatum.
Just a decision that felt right.
Clearing Up the Biggest Misconceptions
A lot of confusion centers around the Book of Mormon, so I explain this in depth in the episode.
In simple terms: it’s another testament of Jesus Christ.
Not a replacement for the Bible.
Not a “Mormon Bible.”
It’s a record of people who also knew Christ—meant to testify of His life, resurrection, and love for all of God’s children.
We believe truth comes through personal revelation—not debate. Which is why you’ll rarely hear Latter-day Saints arguing. Instead, we invite people to read, pray, and decide for themselves.
What Faith Looks Like in Real Life
This episode also covers questions people are genuinely curious about:
- Modern prophets
- Grace and works
- Temples
- Baptism for the dead
- Tithing
- The Word of Wisdom
- Marriage and families
But more than doctrine, what I hope comes through is fruit.
When I look at my life—my marriage, my family, the way I love, forgive, and try again—I see the influence of Christ everywhere. Not perfection. Progress.
Faith hasn’t made my life easier.
It’s made it deeper.
Why I’m Not Hiding This Anymore
I know not everyone will agree with me. And that’s okay.
I respect different beliefs deeply.
What I ask in return is the same respect.
This episode isn’t about being right. It’s about being real. About sharing something sacred without fear—and trusting that the right people will listen with an open heart.
Because at the end of the day, loving God means loving people. All people.
And that’s something we can all agree on.🎧 Listen to Episode #5 for the full conversation.
It’s honest, thoughtful, and exactly as vulnerable as it needed to be.
Links & Resources Mentioned
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- The Book of Mormon – Another testament of Jesus Christ
- Come Unto Christ YouTube Channel – Educational videos about LDS beliefs
- Teach for America
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