Mormon Nuclear Submarine Commander & His Family - Kelly and Heather Laing Pt. 1 - 1466

[@Thunder_Mother]

I can't believe I came across this episode! I am an exmormon who grew up in Bremerton with a submarine captain father and I am a staunch LGBTQ ally. This couldn't hit closer to home. This family and this podcast are an inspiration and a light in this world. Thank you all

[@hturt4]

It’s sweet and heartwarming seeing how lovingly Kelly looks at Heather when she’s talking.

[@Radioposting]

The Mormon church is doing a great job at pushing away the best and the brightest.

[@douglaswilkinson5700]

But not the richest!

[@lollymac2259]

I know I’m late to the “party”on this but Kelly’s youth story is GUTTING me. Saying he was the lost child - hoping to find someone who’d love him as much as he loved them… it would devastate me as a parent to ever think my child felt like this. This man is truly brave… not just bc of his military accomplishments but bc of his willingness to be vulnerable.

[@frogglegz]

Kelly, when you said "I hope to find someone that loves me as much as I love them." From a very orthodox Mormon family, even though I'm the oldest of 6 children, this brought me to tears at my desk at work, and I can honestly say this has stood out to me the most out of all the stories on this chanel I've listened to. Thank you.

[@annaclose7043]

I've never been a mormon (these stories fascinate me) - but my dad was on the USS Seahorse & USS John Marshall. I learned so many things about boat life I never got a chance to ask him - so thank you Kelly for your service, and your time in these interviews. Cheers.

[@gsmarkham]

If this man had been my father... He restores my faith in humanity.

[@mrsspeech]

This story about his service is amazing. Thank you for your service. So grateful men of this caliber are protecting us.

[@BenSwagnerd]

This has been a really eye-opening episode for me. My father was a submarine officer for the US Navy before I was born and stayed in the Navy outside of submarine duty until I was 10 years old. He went into helping many organizations fix problems after his military service, including as a civilian for the US Coast Guard to try to help them recover from the Deep Water scandal. Kelly talking about how submarine crew and leadership are known to work as much as possible rings so true to me. He was never on submarines in my lifetime. But he was already at work before I woke up in the morning, got home from work after 7pm, and fell asleep nearly every day continuing to work at home. Rinsed and repeated every single day. Was proud that he never took a single day of leave in 20 years of service. I had a father who lived at home. Who until today remains married to my mother. But I never really had a *dad.* And my mother never really had a *partner.* And it broke her and twisted her into an abusive monster. I wish my father had some of Kelly's emotional intelligence. My father is still alive but we haven't spoken for years. Because I'm transgender. And because I have the questioning attitude my father was supposedly taught, and that rubbed off on me. But my father couldn't handle it when he was the one being questioned. Because he never saw any signs that I was trans. But how can you see signs in your child that you didn't spend time with? I'm glad Kelly doesn't seem to be much like my father. It seems like his kids got a dad. And that's really cool. It warms my heart.

[@josiedimick3105]

They inspire me to have this relationship with my husband. The way they speak about each other is just 🥺🥰

[@mikerowe3776]

I’m not sure I’ve ever met a man that loves a woman more deeply and more intensely than Kelly loves Heather and vice versa.

[@sephter84]

Such an awesome interview, Heather and Kelly. It was a privilege to be able to serve on the Maine while you were in command. You were indeed extremely TBM while I was there, but it’s so great to see you able to flourish outside the church now! Eagerly anticipating the next parts of your Mormon story 👍 - Former STS1(SS)

[@skikat5127]

Wonderful to hear from Heather and Kelly! My son is a mid at USNA and has huge respect for you! I’ve heard what an amazing, compassionate, and FUN leader you were! Best wishes on your next chapter!

[@Dutchess0909]

INTERVIEW a mormon biologist. Early 90's at Sunstone conference, a mormon biologist from Johns Hopkins gave a slide show about all the physical differences of male and female. Outer differences of all sorts, inside the body differences of so many varieties, it blew our minds. Once you know that you can never ever "judge" again

[@lisagrace6471]

What do you mean by this comment?

[@lyleeloper9333]

Everytime I think you've hit a pinnacle interview John you get someone like the Laing's whose story is crushingly good, heartbreaking, heartwarming and delightful to mentally engage with. Thank you Laing family.

[@CarahBurrell]

I totally agree.

[@leslielou4970]

My same thoughts!!!

[@townsendv58]

Agree totally.

[@mindeloman]

I've heard so many times over the years: "Navy wife - hardest duty in the US military." Heather has my upmost respect.

[@lsun5322]

Let alone a submariners wife! That’s a whole different level!!

[@StayGreenBDifferent]

My mom doesn't share very often, but my Marine dad passed his pilot exams largely because of her cookies. But, we could (and did) skip Mass when he was away, so the church stuff is impressive. Women are the backbone of military service. Go Heather!

[@fionafiona1146]

It's allways fun to hear AFN eagle from Wiesbaden. "You can get childcare like the locals after 75 years" "Domestic violence related offers" "Make sure your spouse knows where your documents are" "Military barks are in worse condition than any legal rental off base" "Meet the locals, this batch speaks English " Not fun to imagine why these points need to be on air every week

[@sidewalkchock]

I appreciate how even tho he doesn’t agree with the church anymore, he still shows so much love and gratitude for the loving members and friends he met while being a believing member.

[@joannvandenberg4792]

After my husband died the ward boundaries changed. My child came out as trans. and wanted me to post it on fb. I reminded him that members of the church were my friends. He didn't care and the sunday school teacher from my old ward typed a response. Shesaid, "we can't all be God's children" that made me mad and i told her that we are all God's children and that we are not suppose to judge. I didnt realize how much bigotry and racism was in the church. That is when i started having quiet doubts about what the church is about. It hurts because there are a lot of great people in the church. I'm now conflicted and am having a hard time. I will watch the G.C. and see what they have to say. I will listen to the spirit very closely. It will tell me how much i believe. This podcast has taught me a lot. Thank you

[@paigemprice]

I love this story, so much Grace in the family. Thanks for sharing. I'm not and have never been Mormon, but I'm Christian and all the stories fascinate and move me. 💖

[@azukib2230]

Kelly and Heather restored my faith in humanity, family, and marriage (especially marriage in military)

[@tamaracollins8627]

I am so moved and inspired by Kelly and Heather. So much to absorb and process. Thank you for speaking up and sharing your story.

[@jessicapowell8912]

@Kelly, your story you shared about doing the moral thing when it came to dealing with the situation of that soldier and Don’t ask Don’t tell, as a fellow human being, I felt your moral compass deep in my soul! I’m so glad there are men like you out there, to model what humanity and morality is❤

[@kellylaing7650]

Thank you Jessica!!!

[@theMMAdhatter]

It had me in tears. Truly powerful!

[@dan9948]

I'm loving all the upfront statements within the first 15 minutes! That's a very smart & helpful move! I hope to see more of that in future episodes

[@TheOKkittyfarm]

Kelly should be in charge of the Mormon corporation. Imagine his principles of command and the changes that could be made in this company.

[@jessicapowell8912]

@mormonstories and @Kelly, My grandfather Harold Morri was a Tuskegee Airman and started the first chapter with a fellow Airman in Seattle. @John you are right there was an experiment called the Tuskegee experiment that basically infected a lot of the black people of Tuskegee with syphilis and didn’t treat them and made them sterile. I’m very proud of my grandfather and the other black soldiers that fought

[@mariepresho3653]

What a beautiful family. So much respect to this family for their service. We need to respect all religions. Thank you for your story.

[@victoriah7802]

Wow, I'm just seeing this in February 2024 and I have so much respect for this family. They're amazing.

[@ozymandias6743]

You hear members speak of ex-mormons as though they are disingenuous and deceitful. Listening to this podcast I don't know if I've ever heard a more honest and true a narration of Life events.

[@jennifernelson7235]

I speak of ex-members as lost and have let go of the rod of iron or maybe never had a true testimony of the gospel but I let them choose where they feel most comfortable. Do the same for active members!

[@LizzaJo]

@@jennifernelson7235 Super Righteous underwear, right?!

[@jennifernelson7235]

@@LizzaJo you got that right! Super righteous, magical underwear that I wear 24/7 because I want to. It’s a promise I made to try to follow the gospel. It’s my 2nd skin and I’m proud to wear them.

[@LizzaJo]

@@jennifernelson7235 Smile - I'll leave you to it.

[@gracebe235]

@@jennifernelson7235…..I used to be you. Be careful. When you finally do see the truth, it will rock your world! It’s not an easy road….it’s been anything but easy. No, I didn’t want to drink coffee, I can’t stand the taste! I didn’t want alcohol, I was raised by alcoholics…..it was hell! Don’t want to be anywhere near drinkers, smokers, junkies, etc. I liked the ‘underwear’ too…..I never had a problem with it, ever. But when the church posted the Gospel Topics Essays, I was disgusted by the lies…..and how they excommunicated people over the years for having questions on those very topics. The church would always tell people that those things were lies….now we find out years later, that it was the church that was lying! People were excommunicated for asking about these topics…..only to now find out that these things are TRUE?! That is a very cruel thing to do to people! To cause families to be torn apart over these excommunications……and then years later, finally posting these things on the official church website?! Disgusting! Now, I look at ‘LDS church members’ as being ‘lost’. They are wilfully ignorant….some, just simply don’t know. But of those who do know the truth, and yet choose to stay and live with the lies? Now that’s lost.

[@bettycastillo9111]

I listened to this beautiful story while at work (massage therapist) and now I am watching it on my tv because it is that good!!!! I don’t know this family but I have love for them!!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@mjgbabydragonlet]

When my sister had her second child, her husband, was unaware his son was born for 9 days, because they would not send any other message than "mother and baby are doing well" to a submarine on a mission. So much respect for this family. Thank you for your sacrifice! Because growing up in a Navy family, I comprehend the level of sacrifice for the family and the servicemember! My brother in law is still in the Navy, I want him to hear this, but not the first 2 hours....

[@mikerowe3776]

Heather and Kelly hold a dear dear place in my heart. Anyone pondering whether to listen I promise this will be incredibly insightful. The Laing’s are the epitome of “Family First” and will offer a powerful perspective. Love you guys ❤️

[@mwalter35]

THE Mike Rowe? The Dirty Jobs reference during Kelly's story is really making me curious 😀

[@mikerowe3776]

Mike Walter lol…. Nope Although I consider myself “THE” Mike Rowe

[@mikerowe3776]

A. Pilgrim extremely odd comment to me. How do you define family first especially when it comes to providing food, clothing, shelter, etc etc…?

[@robinsaxophone232]

To the woman who had the ignorant things to say to your son: Be careful who you hate, it may be someone you love.

[@johmlewman186]

Thank you for your service. Your entire family. Since I was a boy I have always thought that Nuclear Sub commander is the job with the highest responsibility of any in all of history. Amazing respect for you and your family and all your sacrifices for our freedom.

[@littleanniek9092]

The way they love each other is awe inspiring!

[@phoebecaroline7025]

Such an amazing story!!! Love this. I want to hear so much more! I hope they share more in the future. What an amazing family!

[@CocoKmimi]

“Moral rightness does not come from an institution. Moral tightness is how we treat one another”

[@lisagrace6471]

Early into this, you can tell just how much Kelly loves her- it is so lovely and sweet to see.

[@lisaferrin362]

Excellent interview! I love this family! Kelly! I love how you love and lead your family.You are a class act.Thankyou for your military service.So very humble! Thanks for going to bat for your kids. Love from Minnesota!

[@BallCracker]

I know what it's like to be forgotten. I and my brother, the one that is just older than me, were the youngest of six. We were not the spoiled ones that got all the attention. We were the tagalongs that were a burden to parents that didn't have much left to give. We both grew up feeling like a burden. Both of us developed a discomfort in asking for what we need, let alone for things we might want. I had to call my mom every day to pick me up from school and sometimes twice because she would put me out of her mind almost as soon as we hung up the phone. She worked from home so I suppose she was too busy. The first time I had to call her twice she thought it was humorous that she forgot me almost as soon as she hung up the phone. I didn't see the humor in it. One day I didn't call her because I wanted to know how long it would take before anyone would remember me. When the sun was setting, my dad just happened to be driving by my school and thought he would check. I suppose I should have tried the experiment again but I guess I knew enough. One night about 8 years ago, I knew I needed to go to the hospital because I was bleeding so much. I didn't want to burden my fiancé with sitting at the hospital all night so I didn't ask him to take me. My second thought was to tell him to check on me in the morning to make sure I was still alive, but I chose not to do that either because it might make him worry about me and then he wouldn't be able to sleep. I put his sleep ahead of my life! In the morning I told him to take to the hospital. When I walked in with my fiancé the lady at the desk in the emergency entrance took no time to put me in front of everyone and get me right in. They took my blood and the doctor told me he didn't know how I walked into the hospital. I know this is crazy as f**k and yet I still struggle to ask for things I need. People need to stop having too many kids. Bringing humans into the would, just to be obedient to a system that only has it's self interest in mind, isn't doing the children any favors.

[@fionafiona1146]

People who have that many kids need a different support system, even when it happens. I was very happy being Au pair, rather than forced to take care of siblings like many people from such large families report and would like to point out that these types of support structure be it family, friends or staff are an option it huts to see kids go without. Nearly none of my friends want to birth kids but I expect they would hold their word and support mine like their current baby siblings and cousins, allowing me to imagine raising more than two kids.

[@mathematicalmatt]

I'm only an hour in and hearing about the authoritarianism of Kelly's dad is boiling my blood. His attitudes and worldview represents the most reprehensible phase of Mormonism. The Kimball/Benson/McKonkie era is a blight on 20th century Mormonism and to hear it all embodied in one man on a power trip just makes me so mad.

[@brycetomecek5065]

For real. 100% the same for me. Those people are just the worst.

[@melk6049]

@@brycetomecek5065 not worse than the actual founder...rotten roots produces rotten fruit

[@ashhosek]

Beautiful story. These people are so knowledgeable! Bless their hearts for exploring everything life has to offer!

[@gloriafrank1671]

I am loving this episode! I like them all, but this one is excellent!

[@gunver79]

Imagine how cool it would be to have real life Jean Luc Picard as your submarine commander.

[@megangoddess79]

Make it so

[@zemejal]

What great rollercoaster. And Kelly has such a nice way to keep you engaged, very interesting stories.

[@Ivybelle50]

I've been listening to Mormon stories for about a year now. I was never Mormon, but I did have a close friend in school who was. Usually I listen because I am facinated by this religion, and because I can relate to some of guests' experiences with purity culture. This episode, though, is really interesting to me because of Kelly's description of his work with nuclear submarines. I currently live near Cherbourg, France, where there is an industry that builds nuclear submarines that are used in France and around the world. We frequently visit a local museum with a French nuclear submarine. My 6 year old loves it and has said that he would like to work on a submarine when he grows up.

[@ashwalksharp]

Kelly is a phenomenal story teller!

[@sonyalazanya7]

This was a phenomenal interview. One of my favorites. ❤

[@Britbec]

Such a great couple. I loved this interview. Really looking forward to Britton and Mason's interview!

[@MB-wz3xk]

Wow, another beautiful family bravely shares their story. Thank you for your vulnerability.

[@carolynmcmillan7083]

Few mins In and wow the mutual respect of this family is so refreshing to see. Looking forward to this story. 11.15

[@carolynmcmillan7083]

Just watching Kelly watch his beautiful wife as she tells her story in adoration and support is so beautiful 😍

[@susanharland9431]

Wow, not just Mormon stories but human stories, parents love for their kids is greater than any institution, or should be, fabulous family xxx

[@travismckay3708]

Heather your description of yourself was spot on from what i remember growing up! You were and still are one of the sweetest kindest people I know. Kelly i had no idea that is what your life was like growing up! Super hard core makes me sad to hear it. You hid it well!

[@desiadaven]

You guys are such a cute and beautiful couple! I appreciated being able to hear your story. Thank you for sharing!

[@debramccord7707]

The response by his parents when he was forced to confess his “sin” of masturbation is heart breaking. This ridiculous religion (and I think all of them are ridiculous, not just Mormonism) has messed up so many people.

[@debramccord7707]

@@pdailey1950 Pat, may I call you Pat? There are a great many philosophies to draw on in this world to construct a moral framework. The most basic inspiration for me was a beloved uncle who embodied kindness and generosity to the poor, children, and the widowed. He claimed no Christian sect but lived the best values of Christ as I understand them from my years of experience in the religion. And yet his salvation and the disposition of his immortal soul was questioned AT HIS FUNERAL by the “preacher” officiating. That was the end for me thank goodness. Be kind and try not to hurt others is a pretty good moral framework and covers most situations.

[@debramccord7707]

@@pdailey1950 bless your heart. My uncle was not a Christian. Kindness and generosity are not exclusive to Christianity. The level of arrogance required to claim that kindness had to be learned from a Christian is ludicrous.

[@debramccord7707]

@@pdailey1950 well in truth he did the opposite of what was shown to him. He wasn’t a racist and a homophobe and he treated everyone equally. The Christians around us were too busy judging anyone not the right color and anyone they suspected of being gay. So yay I guess. They did provide an example of what NOT to do. I’m grateful I had him so I would know what not to do.

[@debramccord7707]

@@pdailey1950 bye Pat.

[@kennethd.9436]

1:58:00 Missionaries need better living conditions. The church can afford it. Between one and half a billion would dramatically improve all the housing, pay the utilities, and pay the monthly fee for every missionary.

[@josiedimick3105]

But then they would only have 139 billion! This is an radical view point 😉

[@moniquebrasil213]

I really don't understand what they have in mind sending young americans to places with such bad living conditions in Brazil, specially in São Paulo, where they could live in better places and work as a missionary the same way.

[@greygray5762]

Or how about using the money to help the locals.

[@LizzaJo]

lds Inc. = LAND BARRONS They're not there to help anyone...

[@sandIT-ion]

I love this family!! Their story is so interesting and the love they have for each other radiates off my television. I had no idea submarines were so fascinating.

[@gavinwhite5071]

I sought this episode out because Kelly and I share a sister in law. (My wife's sister and Kelly 's brother are married with 9 kids) While I have met Kelly's parents, this gives me a little more insight into some family dynamics that have affected my nieces and nephews. I was also camping with his brother shortly after Kelly left the church and had some interesting conversations. His brother did not know that I had already started my own deconstruction at the time. I had a similar upbringing to Kelly and my wife's was more like Heather's.

[@kellylaing7650]

Thank you for that! Seeing the effects of the church and my father on my brother and his family is a painful thing to watch. Congratulations on your deconstruction and new life. 4 years have passed since we left and we are the happiest we have ever been.

[@maureenfarrell1658]

This guy makes me think that there are not only intelligent, but also thoughtful and insightful members in high rank in the US military.!

[@bryceburgart8544]

What an incredible story! Favourite episode ever. If I wasn’t already a monthly doner, this would definitely be a catalyst to bee one!!

[@CarahBurrell]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@caramel2568]

This family is so amazing and strong! Can’t wait to watch part 2!

[@LavaMan60]

This is one the best interviews ever.

[@jenniferflower9265]

Omg! I can't wait to hear part two. My anticipation is to much. 😁😊

[@NissaMaezHartman]

I adore this family!! Thanks for another wonderful episode, John!

[@FatherVampire]

(3:35:05) "Mormons, in general, do not do good in the military..." This may generally be true...but the same can be said regardless of one's religion when you have high standards. It still all comes down to your own inner strength, conviction and code of ethics... as also with this submarine commander. I had good and sometimes great relationships with my shipmates (in fact, I ended up baptizing four of them during my years in). As a VERY TBM sailor, I never had an issue with the environment surrounded by profanity, pornography, smoking, drinking, even some drug use, and... of course... the womanizing and prostitute-frequenting that went on in port. It wasn't always easy... but was never a big issue. For once you know a principle is true and right... and builds strength when followed... you'd be a fool not to follow it. You just gotta stand up for yourself. But nothing I endured at sea matched being forced to realize, after deeply studying the Church and its claims for five years, just what a fool I'd been for believing it all. Nor could it match being forced by that knowledge to resign my membership and walk away... leaving the Church, most of my friends and almost all my family behind. Doing what's right, regardless of difficulty, isn't always easy... but, regardless of religion and, in fact, in spite of it, doing what's right in seeking and following the evidences is all anyone can do in Life who takes its lessons and import seriously. While no longer a member, yet these standards of remaining addiction free and following true principles have remained foundational to my self-esteem and inner strength... and that inner strength is what we need to succeed in life... and in seeking, finding and following the evidences leading to the truth of all.

[@nicolerichman595]

Loved this one ALSO!!! My gosh!!! ❤

[@maxjenkins7139]

I am in Kenya and Tanzania on vacation listening to this and am from the idaho falls area and am very proud of you two.

[@24thelder72]

It Is an honor to hear this. Stay Blessed. PlymouthUK

[@jeanspeer4053]

I watched these out of order, 3 first then 1 just going to start 2. So many tears watching so far both happy and sad. What an awesome couple. Beautiful.

[@carolshaw8240]

It is too bad this was recorded Sunday. I would love to hear their opinion of Elder Holland's remarks on Monday.

[@creepyoldlady1268]

I'll see your apostle and raise you a Jean-Luc Picard.

[@jenniferhutson2655]

Ditto, maybe a zoom call??? Please?!

[@cindihunter9119]

Perhaps it may not be realized that this interview was planned, and Elder Holland's remarks were not known yet...

[@teemarie5478]

I just love this couple, the entire family is amazing.

[@kimmychan1967]

EPIC. I remember seeing your TikTock! I’m sorry I wasn’t in the Annapolis Ward while you guys were here. I love Coach Ken and it saddens me that he along with so many others are still giving so much energy, like we all did, to the controlling corporation that was our life. I have such nostalgia listening to the latter part of your interview as we sponsored midshipmen for many years. What you did for them is incredible and I’m jealous of the home you got to live in! I’m so sorry it was such a horrible experience for your kids. Their interview was so raw & real. Incredible how we can heal with love above everything else.

[@beccaonly5]

One of the most down to earth compassionate families I have ever known.

[@miriam-moore]

Kera You are really coming on as a great cohost I love how You are really coming on as a great cohost I love how comfortable you are With your audience and seriously enjoy your Contribution to the show

[@CarahBurrell]

Hey thanks!

[@jenniferhutson2655]

Ditto

[@moniquebrasil213]

I love her. Such a smart woman.

[@provetome1199]

What a strong woman Heather is, military wives are amazing! The military absolutely empowers women😊 wish I would have had this confidence and strength in my younger years raising kids. Thank you for your story Heather and Kelly❤️

[@bigskypioneer1898]

@John 2:59:20 I can assure you that the United States has been to war since 1945. I am a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom - that WAS a WAR! Innocent blood was spilled. AMericans were killed both by friendly fire and enemy action. I know you can't be all thing to all listeners all the time - but you're words about us not being in a _"real war"_ since 1945 was extremely offensive to the entire military service SINCE 1945. In some ways the Korean War, the war in Vietnam and OEF/OIF were WORSE on those that served BECAUSE it wasn't an official action where Congress declared war. The American Public in NO WAY has ANY concept of what those of us that served in these "not real wars" went through. Part of the reason we have the social issues we have today is because it wasn't a "let's all sacrifice for the common good" together. There are so many with PTSD and other issues walking around frustrated because ZERO changed in this country while we were sacrificing. I know you were "in the moment" and probably were geeking out a bit - but be mindful that while Americans were eating at McDonald's and walking around shopping malls - soldiers, sailors and marines have made the ultimate sacrifice... and driving around with a yellow ribbon on your car in 2004 in no way compares to our sacrifices - emotional, physical and of course lives. ALSO - as a student of history you should also be familiar with Conscription. PART of the reason there has been no conscription since 1975 - politicians know it would kill their career. Let that sink in. Also I personally KNOW of people that had retired and were called back to duty in 2002. I personally know of a National Guard unit in Kentucky that was activated for 18 months - sent home and 31 days later REACTIVATED all so politicians didn't have to go on the record of re-instituting conscription - calling up the ready reserve. Remember how well that worked out in the Vietnam years? By the way that KY NG unit had that happen TWICE. We were desperate for personnel in 2002. I found your thoughtless comments very insulting to OUR sacrifice so YOU and YOUR children didn't have to if they didn't _want_ to. I was proud to do what I did - and happy to serve - but casual comments like you made about no "real war" since 1945 was WAAAAAY off base. I don't know if Kelly pointed out to you M.A.D. is no longer a viable model - because of 9/11. We are no longer JUST dealing with nations & borders - we are dealing with NON Government sponsored agents on the international political scale (a.k.a terrorists). Military tactics and strategies have changed SO much since 1945, a world war on the scale of WWII is not really feasible. Kelly should have corrected you - but he was obviously extremely worried about revealing classified material and I respect that. A world war today wouldn't necessarily involve 80+ nations like it did in 1942-45. Comparing what is possible in a war in 2022 and what was possible in 1945 is like comparing WW1 to the American Revolutionary War. The weapon capabilities alone create completely different dynamics and battle planning. Average Americans today have ZERO concept of what today's military force is capable of (and that's a good thing as Kelly pointed out). I can't speak for Kelly's experience and I have respect for the sacrifices made by the men and women of the submarine corps - but as a "boots on the ground" veteran - my experience in the early 2000's was probably a bit different than his. I SAW collateral damage "in country", to include children. I witnessed the hardships our 17-19 year old's went through at FOB's (forward operating base). I saw the body bags lined up on the tarmac to be shipped home. IT WAS A *REAL* DAMNED WAR JOHN!!!!!!!!

[@mormonstories]

I meant no disrespect. I think I meant no World War since 1945.

[@WinkActive]

Really enjoyed this one. Very interesting stories from Kellys life.

[@MrsSoapAndClay]

My father in law was a submariner for 28 years, recently retired. It’s a hard life for the family, for sure. Wonder if he and Kelly served together.

[@Valorie_in_the_kitchen]

Thank you for your service! Both of you. Godspeed❤️

[@chrisk5651]

I grew up one county (which was very Italian & Irish with a number of Jews but few Protestants) above New York City in the 1970s & 1980s, and I went to public school and we had Sunday school (which we also called it CCD as I was raised Catholic) in the church basement on Sunday mornings. In middle school, it was moved to a week day after regular school let out but then after 7th grade it was moved to the evenings. However in the mid- to late 1990s I taught at a Catholic school on Long Island one county east of NYC, but it was different from my experience with CCD growing up not too far away in the same state & the same ethnic & socioeconomic situation. The Catholic public school children got released early & bused to the Catholic school during the school day. Plus the non-Catholic students had to stay at school but could not be taught any substantial that the Catholic kids would miss.

[@TheSleepingLionRoars]

This is an amazing interview, wish this family were my neighbors.

[@kellylaing7650]

We’d take you! Thank you for the support and love. -Kelly

[@dl6066]

Kelly Laing you and your family are more disciples and true decuples of Christ than many shallow LDS members who can not understand the Grace of our Lord. I have learned and trying to eliminate any judging inclinations in my heart, I have no right to judge because I am not wise enough and my heart isn't big enough.

[@creepyoldlady1268]

Jean-Luc! I've been searching for so long!

[@elizabeththrock]

this is so wonderful - how love conquers all!

[@cmrsnowflake]

The Tuskeegee syphilis "study" was a major topic in some of my college classes. I don't believe there was a direct link to the airmen, but it was men of color in the Tuskeegee area that were affected, so it's also not impossible there would be overlaps.

[@egonaigner4757]

Such an amazing interview.

[@claudemelancon5039]

I can't imagine how different the tone of this might already be if this had been recorded after Holland's recent remarks.

[@mindeloman]

I know! And John even said "firing bullets," at beginning.

[@Cocoon68]

I left St Anthony two years before the flood. Born in Ogden Ut and raised in Southern Idaho. One of the guys I dated and almost married was caught in the flood waters And his best friend drowned in it. They were out fishing. Had lots of family and friends who lived in the area when this happened. Scary time for those who lived there. 😊

[@janwilson1497]

Acknowledging Heather’s accomplishments raising her family without Kelly, a single Mom has to earn a living.

[@lauriefarmer6380]

This is crazy.... his dad was my seminary teacher in arco.... I stopped taking seminary because of him... as did my husband

[@kellylaing7650]

No way!!!! That is awesome! I am so totally empathetic of that! Rick is a total Douche!

[@mylielaing970]

Isn't that sad?

[@jude492]

A fascinating story and very moving. Does he actually talk that fast or is it the recording? 😊

[@kellylaing7650]

Yep, I really do talk that fast😂. Been working on slowing my speech down my entire life.

[@dianethulin1700]

At last! A family who are/were LDS & Military! This is the story of my family and know there are many military families who are active members out there. Thank you!

[@sheilaray5235]

Heather is just delightful.

[@TeslaAI]

When Kelly faces Heather, he looks uncannily like Patrick Stewart (Jean-Luc Picard)!😊

[@karinmalcolm3352]

I never grew up with religion and that doesn't bother me. However I love listening to your stories podcast and the amazing people you interview. ❤ from Australia

[@loganwrigley1470]

Wow you got me 😭 with the letters story. Go Heather!!

[@bearowen5480]

Kelly's mom was 100% right about sex and marriage. I was married twice. First marriage, basically sexless and miserable, ended in humiliating divorce; second marriage, fantastic sex, 43 wonderful years, ended with death of my beloved wife and best friend. Sex is a "deficiency need". Bad or no sex devastatingly over-focuses everything in the marriage on sex to the exclusion of anything else. Great and abundant sex frees the couple to explore and fulfill all the other needs of a happy conjugal relationship. References: Frederick Herzberg, Case Western Reserve University; Abraham Maslow, "The Heirarchy of Needs.

[@paulgerry2464]

I'm surprised when you were talking about the advantage of 'nuclear' submarines, you didn't mention a major reason is they can go out on long missions without having to refuel. WWII submarines were diesel and had to be refueled often. Otherwise, I enjoyed this session. During my 4-year Navy tour, early '5os, I served on a WWII-built destroyer during the Korean Conflict.

[@TheLongjohntim]

Years ago I was an OTR truck driver The co-driver that the company paired me with was a Mormon BTW I'm openly gay. It was an interesting pairing. His kids couldn't do anything unless he told them they could. Out of all the co-drivers I had with this company I enjoyed him the most.

[@carolynmcmillan7083]

3:45:39 absolutely loving this couple xxx

[@dylanneff]

I grew up as a gay member in Blackfoot, Idaho. It’s always interesting to hear about others like Heather’s uncle because we were so invisible. Anyways, I really enjoyed this episode and I’m looking forward to the boys’!

[@vscarante]

@@pdailey1950 what has this comment to do with anything he said?

[@vscarante]

@@pdailey1950 I still don't understand you. You assume to know the word of God or the bible. That is a big assumption. The Bible is so contradictory and so open to interpretation. Do you believe Moses wrote the Pentateuch? Do you believe Moses even existed? Are you willing to make other people suffer and be marginalized for some vague references from thousands of years ago, on a completely different society?

[@vscarante]

@@pdailey1950 I have. Reading Leviticus, Deuteronomy and Joshua paying close attention to all of it is what started breaking my shelves. I believe in God, but not in God the way other men tell us to believe. The one I experience. Not the misogynistic, narcissistic and abusive one portrayed by men with an agenda calling themselves the only ones able to communicate with God.

[@Secular-Serenity]

I knew military wives that learned to run the household solo then when the husband returned, it was another adjustment.