The Making of Mormon Bishop Bill Reel - Bill and Amanda Reel Pt. 1 | Ep. 1784

[@mrslonelyhearts]

I am constantly blown away by how potentially therapeutic these stories are for the listener.

[@whome9198]

@@THE_KlNG Yet here you are commenting. 😂 Give it a listen, might learn something.

[@MormonDiscussion]

@@THE_KlNG You are going to love part 2 and 3 then.

[@MormonDiscussion]

@@THE_KlNG in what way did "Ex/Anti Mormons are toxic" show up within this interview?

[@whome9198]

@@THE_KlNGI was in a leadership position in my ward until middle of last year and did a deep dive into the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants and learned through that all the inconsistencies in the gospel. That helped me do a deeper dive into history and I realized that I had been lied to for 50 years. My lifestyle hasn’t changed and for sure I am no more evil than I was while still all in.

[@OssieRichards]

AMEN!!

[@irisblue2332]

"The church was the one thing I was good at" This rang so true for me. I'm not part of a high demand religion, but I am part of a small congregation with lots of needs but limited bodies to fill them. I've had some major disappointments professionally in the last 15 years, and I let myself get over involved at church because it was the one place in my life where I felt competent. Along with that, I eventually realized I was also looking to the church to fill a hole that was there because I hadn't really reckoned with/ worked through being unmarried (or partnered) and childless. I could love the church and pour myself into it, but as an institution, it could never love me back. Yes, the *people* in the church could love and support me and I them, but it was different than the commitment made in marriage or parenthood. An institution can't commit back, and it's unhealthy for me, my faith, *and* the congregation that I'm supposedly helping if I ask it to fill a role in my life that it simply can't. I'm working my way into a healthier balance. Fortunately, I haven't received any push back as I've stepped back.

[@smoore7614]

This episode so clearly shows the pain of losing one's faith. No one wants this; it is a result of seeking truth, and it's painful.

[@Zodiacalesotericmatrix]

I sat and had a welcoming conversation with Amanda and Bill and other family in their home. They are so friendly and hospitable. They are 2 of the most credible and loving people Ive ever met. So glad to call them friends. I hope more people give them time and hear what they have to offer and what unique insights they have.

[@Blue-Mondays]

I love how John can listen and let the story unfold unless there is a halt and then he urges on with a great question, he doesn’t interrupt.

[@Sarahwithanh444]

My mother would always share with pride about how many people at church would comment on how well behaved and angelic me and my siblings were… wife and children of the bishop, and there we would be, sitting quietly in our Sunday best, colouring pictures or listening to the speakers, not a word spoken… It wasn’t until I was in my late 30’s, sitting in therapy and relating this to my therapist, that I learned that the way my mother “trained” us to sit so quietly and well behaved was actually psychologically abusive. A very similar technique to “blanket training”. Let’s just say we were so well behaved because our precious little spirits had been broken from birth. Happy and perfect on the outside, empty on the inside.

[@DeathValleyDazed]

Your last sentence is the perfect description of Mormonism. Glad you see the human meat grinder of Mormonism for the damage it does to human beings.

[@jeannemarie5908]

Wow. Margie. You are so dog gone insightful. You LISTEN, CONNECT and HEAR what he is communicating. I am so humbled by your ability to be so insightful.

[@lindamcknight4790]

She’s amazing.

[@jeannemarie5908]

@@crawfordcockers I was going to give a thumbs up but I believe John is a great interviewer as well. He tends to make sure the foundation is placed and he does guide the interviewee at times. But, I suspect this is for cohesion .. I don’t always agree with the way he does things but .. John is a very good host. Obviously.

[@bodytrainer1crane730]

Margie brings the depth and compassion to the table. Truly a person to watch. ❤️

[@michaelsheffield8520]

I'l mml b bb mm mm mm. Mme. I'm c. ​of x been n. V bb. V v. 😢😢😢 C.. NN NC be. Itv been in my. B in my. Bb mm vc

[@missionledcontent]

I love them as a team!

[@puppy7505]

I typically just check out who is talking and then hide the window and continue listening to the entire podcast while I work. As I could hear the hurt in Bill's voice, especially when he talks about his mother, I had to watch. Eventually I just watched the whole thing. Not a productive day today at my job. I have never seen Bill more vulnerable. I admire this man more and more everyday.

[@Truthseeker-mo3zw]

Thank you for being so open. This interview brought me to tears. I came from a traumatic childhood knowing that I never wanted that for my future children. I married into the church. The family was large, well respected, and held prominent positions in the church. I thought the church was a place of healing and would provide me with the skills to be a good mother/wife. I thought the family was loving and kind. Shortly after the marriage, the abuse began. Still reeling from unprocessed trauma from childhood and doing my best to follow the doctrine; I was a prime target for an abusive husband and his abusive family. I sought help from bishops, stake presidents, and church counselors to no avail. He was vindicated and I was shamed. I finally received help from sources outside of the church and from a bishop that ignored the handbook. For many years, I lived a nightmare. I cannot thank all of you enough for aiding in my healing. You truly are lifting those who suffer. Love and light. ❤

[@jmrnet]

"Mormonism might be the only thing I was every really good at." Ooof. I really feel this. Part of what hurts so much about walking away is losing all the pride that I had in myself that I was "doing a good job" at life. That thing I was most proud of, turn out to be a chunk of $#!+ on the inside.

[@Degmxn]

Damn, can't be proud anymore? If not being Mormon, then what now? Workplace, husband, father?

[@lizhoward9754]

Parts of this episode almost had me in tears. Bill and Amanda seem so authentic and real. Happy they had the strength to stand up to these people and get out….not easy. I cracked up when Bill said he felt like he was at a bakers’ convention in the wedding garb. Hilarious!!

[@dianethulin1700]

The one thing that stands out consistently to me having followed Bill & Amanda over the last few years is their enduring love for each other. And it’s not that Paternal love The Church encourages where the woman is beneath the man. It’s genuine respect and admiration for each other that shines

[@drewwhitney7327]

Based off hearing some of Bill’s content, I have always sensed that he had a Bishop quality about him in the most loving way possible. Part of it is the way he welcomes callers by greeting them as his friend. Another is how he pushed back with Kwaku when Kwaku said it wasn’t his job to comfort people. Bishop Reel: “Isn’t that your job as a disciple of Christ, to comfort people?”

[@MormonDiscussion]

Isn’t it? C’mon Kwaku

[@iamjustsaying1]

I love how Bill recognizes both his strengths and his flaws, and is open enough to share both. That vulnerability is refreshing. He's emotionally open, too. No more masks, as we learned to wear in mormonism.

[@debbieallen8396]

I agree. Bill is without pretense. That's rare and loveable.

[@jessicaty1483]

I’ve never been a Mormon and watching his heartbreak had me crying. Faith is beautiful but faith shouldn’t hurt.

[@Kat_Stewart]

Your faith should be in God not the people you go to church with. We all fall short..

[@hayteren]

It's true and for most people in the church they are not hurt. Mostly because they are not liars and they are humble. John Dehlin makes money off of suffering and tries to make people in the Church suffer. This is not a place to learn about the Church or truth in general. There's a channel called Thoughtful Faith and another called Ward Radio that talk about how much John lies. Please don't let John be your only source to learn about the Church. It's not fair to you

[@DmanRC]

1:10:52 Bill Reel: “Mormonism gives you the ability to hide unhealthy behavior behind checked boxes” I’m not even half way through it but I know this is going to be one of the interviews I bookmark for sharing for a long time to come.

[@GeoKnowLearning]

Agreed, that statement caused me to audibly affirm what he said!

[@MKConnecticut]

Catholicism is the same. People are like - “I didn’t break any commandments, so. I’m ok” But so many are racists bigots misogynists.. etc and feel they’re good Catholics. My family is like that so I know. But they continually harass me for walking away. I’ve been ostracized by my family members. That’s what I relate to on this channel.

[@shannonmoore6914]

long time viewer but first time commenter. for context i’m a never mormon however am autistic and stumbled upon an episode around 1.5 years ago about mormonism. from that point it became a hyper fixation for me and has been ever since. the podcast has been incredibly informative for me and a way for me to explore an interesting, complex religion in a safe way. i fear this fixation could’ve led me to investigating properly into mormonism, which definitely wouldn’t have ended well lol. John i just need to say, thank you. you’re an incredible, compassionate interviewer who conducts himself in such an amazing way when delving into such traumatic stories and topics. i’m constantly in awe of how you can continue to do what you do in such an impactful way, as i can’t imagine the mental toll it takes on you and your family. even for me after some episodes i feel mentally drained and have to take a break. the good you are doing is not unnoticed, even by those who have never been close to mormonism physically. this particular episode has really hit me. i can’t pin point exactly why but i’ve felt myself tearing up along with Bill a lot of the time. Bill, you are such a strong and yet again compassionate caring man. it heals my heart a little to know there are people like you in the world, striving for true care for others. i again can’t imagine the heart ache your story has brought you, but am so incredibly grateful you’ve made it through and continue to do so. your story has really touched me in a way i didn’t expect at all. thank you for being a shining light of an example for what i hope is so many people. all my love goes out to everyone struggling with a faith crisis, or any other struggle in life. i wish for healing to all of you, and for true peace to come into your lives, whatever that may look like ❤️

[@lindseyweaver9857]

Thank you for sharing. Your comments and story touched me and as a former Mormon I could also relate. Wishing you all the best in your life as well.

[@MKConnecticut]

Never Mormon ex-catholic. The vulnerability and bravery of this man is so moving- I wept through much of it. And I think he challenged you, John, which is always good for us to hear. Religion has done such a HATCHET job on some of us- it’s unfortunate they don’t know the power they have to do GOOD instead of using power to CONTROL PEOPLE. . Such a conundrum- some of us are lucky to be alive. Thank you Bill Reel and thank you John for speaking to all of us Nomo’s. I don’t think you know..

[@pechaa]

I’m the same - ex-Catholic, never Mormon. I would love to see a channel like this for Catholics/ex-Catholics. If nothing comes along, I’m going to start interviewing my friends.

[@zjaneg]

My stepfather was a moderately successful Presbyterian minister …who desperately needed a way to be successful outside of that paradigm. I cannot tell you how many unsolved pains in my heart have been healed by this insightful act of generosity… Dick could never articulate his own faith crisis…but it blew our family up and caused terrible pain. My brother and I both became ministers …in my case I think to work so much of this out… Thank you

[@redsnest]

I have loved every episode I have listened to so far. Maybe 40? I think this has been the one I have most closely identified with. Thank you for what do. It is a hug for all of us out there struggling with history, expectations and questions.

[@GC2024_]

I'm in tears 😢😢 wow this is amazing the side we never knew about Bill. What a beautiful story 😮❤

[@jennifermay8710]

I've heard the name Bill Reel, but listening to this, just touched me. Such a great man who strives to be good. And Amanda is such a lovely person. I would love to meet them some day. That would be an honor. God bless

[@gerber4054]

21 minutes in and already hitting the feels. Such wonderful humans the 4 of you are. Thank you.

[@towelandtea42]

As someone AuDHD, the being smart but also being average unless I felt challenged is extremely relatable. He might wanna get checked for that (if he hasn't already). I struggled a lot with not being good enough when given easy tasks even if I needed to do well and having the diagnosis just changed my life. I somehow relate even in the sense of not growing up mormon (i'm a never-mo) but knowing a lot about it, as extreme religions/cults/political extremism are current hyperfocuses. Just for context, I'm both fascinated about what reels/keeps people in as well as what kind of thing gets them out, as I see a lot of similarities with political extremism. As a brazilian I feel like it's a moral obligation to be able to establish dialogue with people and help to get rid of the us vs them mentality so that what happened won't happen again. The loving, respectful and compassionate way everyone is treated in this channel certainly sets the tone in how I try and behave towards others.

[@mdawgwhite]

I am new to mormon stories within the last year or 2, as well as with Bill Reel, and I had no idea there was so much history between you 2!! I have many more episodes to watch between you 2! Awesome episode!

[@easydoesit62]

I can’t find words to express how much I love this couple. Bill has always been such a beautiful example of a truth telling sweet human and now these glimpses into heir story and seeing the humanity in their soldering and the grit and grace that they have developed together is so touching to me. Now the peek into the beautiful and brave lives of these two has added to mine in a way that’s hard to express. Just thankful for the kindness and courage I feel from both of them. And to meet lovely Amanda - what a treat! What a beautiful story! Thank you John et all! You killed it on this one. Truly inspiring!

[@Sentientdreamer]

It takes such deep courage to review painful personal past mistakes.

[@michaeltheiii]

Going through some of the more popular Mormon stories episodes now - wow, this story is powerful. Huge thanks to Bill and Amanda for being willing to be so real (no pun intended) and vulnerable. So much to relate to here, yet so heartbreaking. I especially love his perspective on feeling like he owed the church everything because the church gave him everything. Thanks to the Dehlins for helping to drive that conversation as always.

[@jameswalberg3265]

Have been anticipating this series. Should be called "Legendary Podcasters in Conversation"

[@anjelikag]

Ive been tearing up through most of this!😢 how Bill explains how his parents did their best(almost down to the same back stories for each..) and you can have even better is what exactly how me investigating and still lurking has happened... I wanted what they presented, what they advertised that they had by living THIS gospel.

[@atphoenix2020]

I cried for Bill and Amanda ... breaks my heart ... love you both.

[@whitajeman]

I am barely into the first few minutes and hearing about Bill's parents and his childhood has me in tears. left an abusive relationship and my main goal is to make sure my son's childhood is full of learning to have courage, integrity, and compassion. I hope to raise him to see that I put his well being first and hope he will continue to always do the same.

[@krislarabee7902]

I don't understand how someone can learn the things about the church that are taught here and still believe. At 61 years old, it is hard to leave something that I have always believed. I wish at times that I didn't know what I know!

[@Nicole543321]

This is a truly moving interview. To see a man reflect so vulnerably on the role he played in perpetuating an unhealthy patriarchal structure on his family, and his ability to connect with his emotions in doing so has been so powerful. The juxtaposition to the love and care for people that his job as a bishop demanded of him to what his family received from him was so valuable in showing how patriarchy hurts men too. I am looking forward to the next part!

[@sallyostling]

How nice! 4 great people being authentic!

[@kentthalman4459]

I love this couple. So grateful for the time the Reels contribute to Mormonism.

[@joannestanley8478]

I am so loving this. Bill is such an honest, open, feeling man. It's wonderful and heart warming to experience him.

[@cassafrass7928]

I REALLY enjoyed this pt 1! Bill is so genuine and seeing all the memories this has dug up for him is raw and moving. Thank you for sharing your story Bill & Amanda!

[@rebeccasirrine947]

Bill and I have been FB friends for many years, and he is the first exmo podcaster I ever listened to (yes, even before MS, sorry, John!). Glad to see Amanda, as well.

[@MormonDiscussion]

I will check in so Don't hesitate to ask questions. I hope these conversations are helpful.

[@Zodiacalesotericmatrix]

What do you know about the Mormon Apologetic Discussion Board (aka MADB)? I asked questions there but experienced ad hominem attacks and bans from the admins for asking "What is antimormon"?

[@MormonDiscussion]

@@Zodiacalesotericmatrix It is ran by and overrun by believers so intelligent critical opinions are heavily moderated. For example I was banned for calling Russel Nelson "Rusty".

[@darlenewoolf6767]

I have always been big Bill and Amanda fans, this podcast has given me the insight to truly love and appreciate them even more. Thanks for being vulnerable.

[@BunnyWatson-k1w]

Bill's approach to being a bishop at 1:34:39. That is thankfully the same approach we take with members. You need compassion and sympathy for dealing an inner city ward like we have. I am lucky to have served as counsellor for two branch presidents who also showed great humanity for how members were dealt with. I have heard horror stories of some bishops who fail members in financial need or members who have sin in their life. We have to be Christ-like in how we deal with the less fortunate in society.

[@reyfast2830]

I was a bishop and had many wonderful experiences with other members.

[@pechaa]

I bet Mormon Stories would be happy to interview you.

[@aanchaallllllll]

0:45: 🎙 Bill Reel, host of Mormon Discussion Podcast and Mormonism Live Podcast, shares his story of being a convert to the Mormon Church and his upbringing in a loving but emotionally unavailable family. 12:43: 💡 X grew up in a non-religious household with some childhood trauma, but had a happy childhood overall. He felt a deficit in his ability to connect with others, particularly as a father, and saw Mormonism as a way to gain the tools he needed. 25:47: 👫 Bill meets Amanda and becomes interested in Mormonism through her father's influence. 37:35: 📚 X describes his conversion to Mormonism as a combination of a social and emotional conversion, as well as an intellectual pursuit of answers to his questions. 51:06: 💔 The interviewee's experience with Mormonism was largely positive, but they faced challenges and sacrifices along the way. 1:04:42: 😔 The couple experienced challenges in their marriage due to the husband's belief in male leadership and the wife's feeling of not being good enough. 1:21:41: 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The person became a Mormon bishop at age 29, while facing financial difficulties and working two jobs. 1:30:16: 🎧 X, a Mormon Bishop, started listening to Mormon Stories podcast to gain a better understanding of Mormonism and engage in conversations that he felt were not happening within the church. 1:44:48: 💔 Bill, a bishop in the church, reaches out to John expressing his struggle with the church's lack of openness to difficult issues and his desire for it to still be true. He hides his doubts and finds solace in John's interviews with faithful scholars. Serving as a bishop while questioning his faith is challenging, but he remains dedicated to the church. His compassion for church members does not extend to his personal relationships at home, where his daughter is dealing with significant trauma. 2:15:08: 🎙 The goal of the podcast was to help people not feel crazy about the issues and offer a more faithful conversation around them, while also holding the church leaders accountable for their history. 2:29:26: 🎙 Bill Reel discusses his early experiences with interviews and monologues on the Mormon Discussion Podcast, his collaboration with FairMormon, and his falling out with the organization. 2:42:16: 😔 Bill is released as bishop and enters into a full-blown faith crisis, while Amanda supports him throughout the process. 2:57:02: 🎥 This is part one of an interview with Bill and Amanda Real discussing the making of Bishop Bill Real. 33:32:02: 👥 Bill expresses his disappointment with the direction of Mormon Stories and misses the old style of interviews. Recap by Tammy AI

[@ambition112]

Thanks for saving my time! amazing summary tool with time stamps! where did you get this Tammy AI

[@celicalostandfound]

At 1:56:00 when you talk about hiding it from everyone I am so glad I heard this. I as well hid it for months once I came to the realization that I could not believe in Church anymore. I was in the Stake Young Men's Presidency at the time and also was the Ward Tech specialist. I was asked to give a talk in Church and like a good Mormon I said yes even though I felt the way I felt. I got up and gave my talk and I geared the talk far away from Church truth and geared it towards ideas that were more universal. Even though I had kept my talk in that sphere when I got done felt such a hypocrite. No one knew how I truly felt, but me... Dang Bill I want to give you a hug.

[@MrsRuffntuff1]

They have such emotional intelligence in telling the preamble that I didn’t stop listening and so happy I didn’t. His parents not only wrote but redirected any generational abuse and neglect but still made important, life directed decisions for their family and they did. What a great life story.

[@BunnyWatson-k1w]

Being called as a bishop at 1:31:21. I can relate to Bill's struggles. I was unexpectedly called to a bishopric as counsellor a year ago. It has been an uphill struggle since in terms of time, patience and labor required for the calling. We have very little adults to call in leadership positions. There are at least 15 families on church welfare of some type. Most active ward members are working class. So it places a burden on Elder's Quorum an Relief Society to do a lot. We also have few younger families with an aging population. Bill said his ward had 110 plus on a Sunday. We averaged 124 people a week a decade ago. Today we are lucky to have 50 people on a Sunday.

[@zjaneg]

This is an amazing exploration of this complicated reality… Thank you.

[@angiejones5918]

Thank you for being so open and honest.

[@vintediana1252]

I am blown away by Bill’s honesty and ability to admit how Mormonism’s focus on patriarchy fed his arrogance as a man. He’s apologetic for the harm he caused. I feel not enough men in particular acknowledge the way the emphasis on patriarchy flattered the ego and drew them in. Even after deconstructing their faith many don’t deconstruct that bias.

[@bodytrainer1crane730]

I agree. I don't think most Mormon men even let themselves consider the possibility. I admire Bill for this. ❤️

[@nickywal]

Not Mormon but I saw an interview with a man who grew up in the IBLP, he was talking about the abuse he faced. But a large section of the interview was him almost in tears talking about the abuse that his sister and other women in that cult went through. It definitely is part of it, we've seen it over and over again, you tell a group they're the justified leaders in a situation and they can justify anything

[@HaleighMarkar]

24:29 Oooof I relate to Bill about wanting to do things different than your family of origin and Mormonism providing the tools and opportunity for a dream family . Once again, the church makes you NEED them for success.

[@kessiareis7007]

This reminds me of my dad. ‘The only thing I was good at.’ I think the church also gave me unrealistic expectations about my talents. Working through that right now

[@z0zRAMC]

As someone who is not religous nor ever has been, its sad to me to see people put themselves through so much hurt and pain.

[@lynnedavis4819]

What a kind and well-spoken man.

[@jconwell84]

Bill Reel, I thought it was only me. Your life looks similar to mine. What you felt I have felt too. Much respect for you.

[@loriallan9294]

Great interview. My daughters going to struggle with joining this faith. It looks so perfect on the outside but the inside, it’s incidious for so many. I’m learning from all of you what techniques I may need if things come to a head and she needs a way out.

[@theresazelazny7445]

I am deeply touched by your story Bill. I understand your love for the church. What depth, humility and honesty you have shared in admitting a disconnect you saw in your role as Bishop and family member. Margie I appreciated your thoughtful questions.

[@MormonDiscussion]

thank you for the kind words

[@belalima5779]

Wow. I can't put into words how much I appreciate this. Bill, my ex husband was just like you used to be. Every member's best friend, always there, always serving, doing everything right... He really was, still is an amazing person... But me as the wife, well, different at home. Your story is giving me a whole newfound respect for you! Thanks for sharing! And thanks John.

[@MormonDiscussion]

Yep

[@townsendv58]

Thanks for sharing your story and for being vulnerable

[@markkrispin6944]

Quite possibly the best podcast episode ever.😊

[@debbieshrubb1222]

Mainly watching because I'm interested in Amanda's story and how her story aligns or is different to Bills. Hoping her insights into Bill's experience gives understanding of her own. It can be tough supporting someone in faith crisis no less when you may be experiencing your own.

[@ohtobeasuriel]

Bill is a special human. I relate a lot to him. I've never seen anything with Amanda but she seems lovely

[@GeoKnowLearning]

I've wanted this interview for a long time. I was very moved by Bill and Amanda's story and grateful for the vulnerability displayed! Bill is a man of integrity.

[@sandiekaye5241]

I am hurting for the Bill and Amanda of yesteryear, but know we all go through some form of growth and change as we mature just as they did. It just might not be our religion at risk. And Dr. John Dehlin that is a gorgeous shirt. You look like a million bucks. I love that shirt. Wish I could find one that handsome for my husband.

[@Alnava-ml3wn]

Bill thank you for your story. Very similar to mine. As a post-Mormon, I don’t have too many friends that I can share stories with. These episodes really help me.

[@t.thompson9977]

This is one of the best Mormon Stories episodes ever both parts 1 and 2 Bill reel is a remarkable person, much respect

[@Allthoseopposed]

Bill, @ 2:00: We all do this Bill, every single one of us has treated those we love most the very worst. We do it until we recognize it and then we do better and still fall short. You may just be the male version of myself. I relate so much with you desire to be “good”, to be “enough”, to love and help others, willing to search and dig on others behalf, enjoyed meetings and communing on the Sabbath Day, it was a fulfilling, inspiring and rewarding space… until it wasn’t. No one would conciously enter a crisis of faith with eyes wide open, (Atleast that’s been my experience) we go in with our whole hearts believing that through our efforts and the Saviors power, we will arise conqueror. It’s the way the narrative goes in our own worldview along our hero’s journey. Thank you for once again for powerfully and vulnerably baring you’re soul for all who care to look can see and judge for themselves. You are a good human, a good man and a great example of rising from the ashes. 🙏🏼❤️

[@patriciafinn5717]

Human..real..and heartful episode..love bills work....❤

[@lorimontcalm9086]

Omg, I just watched this trio of interviews. What a great discussion. My dad was raised Catholic but became an athiest, yet he behaved like the best Christian. Welcoming a variety people into our home, generous. I am also an athiest, and will pursue MAID (medical assistance in death) as I have a progressive disease. Great interview. Well done.

[@marielasalle5039]

Best interview in the series. Long time listener.

[@westieweardogkilts9715]

Fascinating, didn't realise how far back Bill and John go.

[@nicolerichman595]

I love his honesty…… what a great human. ❤ That is such a great trait to have.

[@erpthompsonqueen9130]

Thank you. Watching from Alaska.

[@rosehannah4845]

You had me crying more than any guest i've watched so far. I'm at 1:50:42 and i've already cried with Bill 5 times.

[@amygreen758]

I'm curious how Bill Reel feels about the fact that you can now be married civilly first, then sealed within a week, in the temple. When Bill was married, his mom was completely excluded. Getting married civilly first, was an insult to "god" at that time. I'm glad Bill began to address this.

[@MormonDiscussion]

My mom died at 59 from cancer and that temple slight has caused some resentment

[@amygreen758]

​@@MormonDiscussionoh that's awful. So sorry.

[@genevievecontreras1201]

I can tell you as someone who’s family didn’t get to go in the temple because they weren’t members, it feels horrible. My family were supportive of me. I may Mr my mother’s only child who will ever get married. She is my best friend and supporter and I allowed a organization to pick then over her.

[@whome9198]

Thank you for this interview. Every story helps me with my deconstruction. This definitely left me wanting to hear more from Amanda.

[@mormonstories]

Our pleasure!

[@isabellahall6813]

Amazing episode! Not sure if Bill is already aware of this or not, but he should probably look into ADHD! His experience sounds like a textbook late-diagnosed ADHD life story. I've experienced so much of the same.

[@ajmuda]

I thought the same thing ! As a fellow late life ADHD er

[@kckazcoll1]

I was wondering if maybe ASD? I know there are overlaps

[@lvega5606]

I thought the same thing and I have similar symptoms.

[@marielasalle5039]

Best interview in the series.

[@cherishhansen1507]

ugh I’m exhausted, but this is so affirming of my choices as a mom and wife. My husband pulled away from church just as we were married, and I tried so desperately to stay active for the next 15 or so years with our 4 children. Finally giving up and allowing myself the grace of not going to church, but drowning in guilt for the last 16 years. I am staring to heal and feel ok, forgive myself, for letting go of the church. Now, I feel like I knew all along that it just wasn’t quite right.

[@hayteren]

Remember you can always come back. John's lies won't comfort you for long.

[@ninaschultz6922]

47:00 "on the surface it looks really beautiful". I am never Mormon but I know exactly that the cost of a picture perfect familiy can be extremely high, there can be a lot of pressure, expectations, and so on to keep an outward appearance.

[@mortenle]

Bill's mom being pissed that he got married in the temple without her being there makes total sense to me. She had been there through everything, and suddenly the church get's prioritization over her. And why?

[@GC2024_]

The story that hit me was talking about his parents not being able to witness their son get married, my cousin was in the same boat i remember holding her as she cried , her daughter got married in the temple the bisop told my cousin maybe you should have thought about this a long time ago and prepared yourself, by "PAYING TITHING" &Attending church !! I felt so bad for her !!

[@skahatoad]

Many of us wanted the church to be untrue and thought John Larsen and mormon expression and the language was perfect and helped us out. Like Bill I made a list of things that had to hold up. The canonized scriptures. So the start of the end was Pearl of Great Price. Then I loved to see every other thing fall. Each week I looked forward to another Mormon Expression.

[@andreadiamond7115]

Commenting to help. Really enjoying this interview. Love Mormonism Live.

[@BirdRockin]

I laughed at Bill Reel's comment "I 'm in the garb...I look around and...look like we are at a baker's convention" because that is what I have always thought!. the saddest part of temple marriage is leaving out loved ones, family and friends who are not members and just as awful is leaving out siblings or parents who are church members but do not have a temple recommend.

[@MH-tc9sk]

I love Bill Reel!!!!!

[@radiofreemormon5140]

Big Bill and Amanda fan here!!! 🎉

[@mwillis7791]

Such a wonderful episode!! I can’t wait for the next part

[@BunnyWatson-k1w]

At 4:45. The story about objections Bill tells is interesting. It is easier for members to dismiss something they have never heard of as "Anti-Mormon" than to actually read it. Then members will still claim the "church is still true" and move on. Bill is an unusual case in that he likes studying history and knows the LDS church past. Most members really do not take the time to study the doctrine or history.

[@jeangarde841]

I had to look up the definition of Phoenix Rising & each episode shows me exactly what that truly means!

[@avasgranb1]

“Mormans tell you how loud you can laugh.” Devastating.

[@caseyjude5472]

This was so good. Onto part 2!

[@mikeoyler2983]

I think that your thought about opening the Bible to see a naked Eve was very candid and honest. It reveals characteristics about sexuality. I bet this happens with a lot of people. I wonder how many young people of the Mormon Church who go into the temple and imagine what Adam and Eve look like naked based on the "Temple Ceremony".

[@daisybee1439]

Wonderful and amazing interview!! 😀😀

[@mormonstories]

Thanks so much!

[@petiolereads]

I'm loving this meta retrospective. Would be interested in further follow-ups with others!

[@janemclean7032]

This story sounds so similar to my story growing up!

[@17...20]

This is so great! I'm only a little more than halfway in ❤❤

[@MormonNewsRoundup]

solid podcast!

[@peggygarcia6125]

Loved this. So good!

[@ruthrodriguez2532]

Fascinating