#034 -- Loving Those Who Leave the LDS Church: Jeff Strong, Author of "Torn"

Ashton and Juliet host author Jeff Strong to discuss his Latter-day Saint-focused book Torn and what drove him to write about faith struggle, deconstruction, and belonging. Jeff shares how his son came home early from the MTC 13 years ago, the “fog of war” that followed, and how family and community reactions created misunderstanding, rejection, and years of pain before finding a healthier way forward. Drawing on experience as a bishop, church employee, BYU teacher, and mission president, he describes common misconceptions: active members underestimate how many leave, misjudge why they leave, and assume life falls apart afterward; while some post-Mormons dismiss why thoughtful, informed people stay. The conversation emphasizes empathy, humility, “new wine in new bottles,” and building bridges to protect marriages, parent-child relationships, and ward culture.Purchase "Torn" here: https://www.amazon.com/Torn-People-Le...🌐 More episodes & links: https://linktr.ee/latterdaybridgebuil...📸 Follow us on Instagram:   / latterdaybridgebuilders   🎥 TikTok:   / latterdaybridgebuilders  ☕ Support the podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/LDSBridg...