Mormon Bishop Melts Down in Eagle Mountain - Jared and Camille Johnson | Ep. 1964

[@shanepratt3568]

I am constantly amazed at these stories. I keep thinking, "This will get old one day," but the stories continue to fascinate me! I got out when I was 18 or 19--I am now 60. I am so glad I got out when I did. My heart always aches for people who have invested so much of their lives in the church. I hope they find baskets full of happiness and something tells me they will.

[@lynettemoody2741]

Are you related to Lucy Pratt?

[@shanepratt3568]

@@lynettemoody2741 Does not sound familiar.

[@melodieearickson7392]

I’m a Never Mormon… former Catholic from Childhood, left when I was 20, now in my late 70s, and am fascinated by Mormon Stories. I’ve watched hundreds!!!

[@kristinenelson990]

Former Mormon here... When Camille mentioned that she could just no longer wake up and go to church, she started making pancakes with her kids, enjoying them and learning about them, that resonated with me so much. I am 20 years post Mormon, my grown kids are so well adjusted and productive. All have such wonderful grace & forgiveness for others in their lives as well as for themselves. I'm grateful I left the LDS church.

[@letahamilton]

You periodically ask if your listeners like long format. Even if it takes a couple days to listen, I still appreciate the depth of long format

[@janwilson3458]

Once again, John Dehlin you are such an insightful interviewer, but Margee as ever your words really show what a good listener you are. You are so valued.

[@lonedinosaur13]

Love Margee ❤

[@Freaky0Nina]

I think Margi is my favourite co-host. She asks such good questions.

[@tanyacurry459]

Yes she does. I always learn something from her questions. I wish they would fix the lighting so her face is not so shiny. Maybe a compact is needed.

[@cherylduncan5158]

Breaks my heart how you give so much to the church and when you leave they just ghost you. It was very depressing at first now, I love being invisible. Thank you for this amazing podcast!

[@PhyreReighn]

I didnt learn to be calm & one with my god until I left mormonism. they teach Co-Dependency at its worst!

[@HPM503]

The church demands and expects complete devotion and loyalty but feels very little in return.

[@annieedwards1352]

I left my husband when he was bishop. I Learned that he loved the institution more than his family. I felt like I was living to die. Everything I did and every struggle I had was for the afterlife. Life is too short to be unhappy. For 13 years I showed up with my daughters and served. He never sat with us during sacrament once. Broke me when I started getting chastised from the pulpit . Thank you for this

[@hmt1771]

Omg, "living to die." That's exactly what we were doing. This set off bells in my head. Thank you for your comment. It really resonates for me!

[@PhyreReighn]

Wow! Good for you- What people dont realize are the happy smiley faces turning as we are gaslighted if we oppose!! Even and especially by family. Ive been that fly on the wall and I realize new friends are closer than family!!

[@darrenlocke5627]

I have many LDS friend and I am always surprised by how the women have been treated and stay in the relationship. But the church teaches that.

[@TiffaneyEdwards-k1z]

Glad you removed yourself from the situation

[@poppadoc5614]

My husband is LDS, and he will not listen to one word of anything that might disagree with the church. I am so old I don't know what to do. He is married in the temple to 2 other wives but not to me and will not do a temple divorce. We live like two strangers in a house.

[@karengastelum3357]

This couple was authentic all along. Their authenticity is what drove them out of the church. I’m so happy for them ❤️

[@PhyreReighn]

To thyself be true- NO- not if ya live in Utah !

[@carolatchley3797]

This is one of the most touching stories that I've heard in a long time. My heart goes out to Camille and Jared. I'm so glad they are finding the best for their family.

[@mmthueson]

Former Bishop’s Wife here! I left the church while my husband was still serving as Bishop. This episode was wonderful.

[@Austden]

I’m sure that was A LOT. You should be proud of yourself for the courage that would have taken!

[@mmthueson]

@ it feels LIBERATING!!!!

[@bmo5082]

Is your husband still in?

[@mmthueson]

@@bmo5082Yes, he is. He can’t even hear me out yet and it’s been over two years of deconstruction for me. I’ve had to rely on friends and podcasts to get me through it. It’s incredibly painful and hard on our marriage.

[@mmthueson]

@ Yes.

[@bugsea54]

I see a parallel between this couple and myself. However, I'm a never mormon, yet my nervous breakdown sparked me to take a look at my life. I got rid of every person or thing that caused me stress and added things that fed my soul. My whole life changed into a unique, fullfilled, humble, grateful human bean.

[@kireland8]

This is the first long podcast I have listened to from beginning to end. Jared and Camille are so authentic and vulnerable. Thank you all.

[@adayinthelifeofarancherswi2985]

I have been deconstructing for a few years, very slowly. My husband has been very reluctant to listen to the "anti-mormon" propaganda that he thinks Mormon Stories is. He watched this whole episode and continued to be validated over and over. I am so grateful for both Jared and Camille and John and Margie. I think this ol' dog just might have a new podcast.❤

[@fuddymcfithers9819]

One of my favorite things about Mormon Stories is learning about common shared experiences that help us realize we’re not alone. I actually went to school with Jared and was part of the basketball team with him. I also went on a mission to Santiago Chile (and even bumped into him at the temple once). I also married my wife after only knowing her for several months. I also felt tremendous pressure in the church and later learned about scrupulosity. I also had a meltdown while serving as a counselor in a bishopric. I also asked to be released and had a similar experience with the social reactions and rumors. It’s nice to know that someone else knows how you feel. Thanks for sharing your story, Jared and Camille.

[@HotRaptor]

Sorry you experienced similar experiences!

[@CamTas82]

As someone who has been a bishop and a stake presidency member I can relate so much to what Jared is sharing. The disciplinary councils, the way sexual abuse was handled, the burnout/breakdown experienced and the deconstruction needed. And when you choose not to continue in your membership because of what you have learnt and the moral dilemma that creates, its not easy after being a public figure and leader in your stake and community to then have a truth crisis and everyone knows president no longer attends. It requires a journey of being honest with self and learning to belong to yourself and honour your own values, so you can be resilient to the loss and reality experienced as you transition and find a new norm. It can be brutal, confronting and enlightneing all in one. I wish Jared and Camille well in their journey ahead- there is much beauty in the world!

[@wmmcfall]

Thank you for your courage and honesty in sharing your lived experience as a high level leader in the LDS Church, called to act for God in loving and shepherding every member of your large flocks! I’m so glad that you, Jared and others (including wives!) are sharing your stories so everyone can understand these are unreasonable sacrifices you’re asked to make as human beings, with your own family challenges, even though your hearts are sincere, faithful and dedicated! I hope others who are closest to you can let go of fear to hear you with unlimited love and trust that you have not changed. Your eyes have just been opened to a path of greater peace and happiness, as my husband’s and mine were after 44+ years of being all in and giving our lives to the Church! The gospel is pure and SIMPLE - love thy neighbor as thyself. Love casts out fear. Do what you can with what you have in the time you have in the place you are. And it will okay.

[@lq6424]

I wish current bishops and their wives could listen to this story. It could free so many of them.

[@caralyon6507]

Loved this episode! Thank you for all you do John and Margi! Having the courage to leave the LDS church has brought so much more joy and happiness into my life- marriage is better, family is happier, and my relationship with God is stronger. I am grateful for Mormon stories, as it was so helpful during my faith transition. And now I just enjoy listening!

[@ohjonash]

Margee asked about whether they felt pressure to be obedient because they saw the stress that their siblings caused on the family system by being rebellious really hit home for me as a never Mormon. Great episode, as usual 💛

[@RuthZeeck]

Same. My father was a United Methodist Minister. As the youngest of three children, I undertook the impossible task of being a perfect child. I wanted to somehow make up for every time my older siblings rebelled, talked back, or disrespected our parents in any way. I lost any sense of myself along the way.

[@mostlyvoid.partiallystars]

Same here. Although mine wasn’t siblings, it was an unstable mom. If she broke down crying I did too because I felt I’d failed.

[@sherryg1838]

I can relate so much to Camille saying she enjoys the stories. I’m a never Mo, but love listening to Mormon Stories Podcast. I enjoy learning more about people’s experiences.

[@kdjomurphy]

Same

[@emptynesters2520]

Thank you John & Margi for having Jared & Camille on your show! This was definitely a great one and the reason we donate every month! We hope life continues to bless the 4 of you beyond measure! Much Love!♥️💖♥️💖

[@edbok2751]

Watching from Kansas USA. I deconstructed out of Evangelical Christianity a decade ago, but it gives me great joy to hear of others moving on from other conservative religions. All the best to you!

[@sacramentotoday]

Are liberal religions o.k.? Or should liberal religions be deconstructed too?

[@JIKOKALOL]

All religion is man based. What you want is a direct, personal relationship with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

[@hilarymullins5852]

The key criteria isn’t so much whether a group is conservative or liberal but is whether theirs is a high-demand religious group. If you do an internet search of the term high demand religion you’ll probably find good info on this. Also check out Mormon stories episodes 1443 - 1447 and /or Steve Hassan’s BITE model -both very illuminating. Good luck!

[@AmEv7fam]

​@@JIKOKALOLGranted, I'm personally looking for someone to demonstrate the difference between actually speaking with any god or deity, and convincing yourself that you are, in a way that's testable, measureable, observable, and repeatable.

[@dianethulin1700]

@@sacramentotodayWhat is a Liberal Religion?

[@dustbrooks5144]

This church is tearing my family apart. Hoping my wife will see the light some day.

[@katiebowers8539]

Never Mormon here although I went to school and was friends with the Mormon girls in our small town. Or as much friends as one can be not sharing a huge part of their experiences outside of school. I’ve listened to several episodes of Mormon Stories and each time I am struck by how kind, generous, hard-working, loving people your guests are - and often tear up and am humbled by their journeys. Kudos to you two and your team for your service.

[@darlenethayne]

OMG! This is just so beautiful and honest. After serving in many leadership positions in my Bountiful ward and raising my children and teaching school here, when I quit attending and then resigned after my husband's death, my dear friends didn't know how to handle it and never talked to me about it or seemed to care. Most of the ward just ignored that fact and did not engage with me or want to know what happened or why. They were not really unkind but I was an enigma that they chose not to deal with. It is a culture of disengaging with anyone or anything that causes them discomfort in their beliefs - not healthy at all, in my opinion.

[@msmdare]

The discomfort of so many demands from the church is what pushed this couple away. How unkind and unfair for so many to just ignore these faithful and hardworking members for so long. They are clearly joyful today. Good for them!

[@matthewmitchell68]

I forgot how the stress of the church fell off my shoulder when I left. Plus you don’t really have to care because they don’t care!

[@backthebusup]

That is a good point, "You don't really have to care because they don't care." Well put, Thank you!!

[@bodytrainer1crane730]

So true 😂

[@douglasnielson8250]

They just want free labor and tithing.

[@tesshendersonfotheringham9805]

I'm crying with Jared and Camille (around 3:38-3:43) with alllll the loss. The death by suicide, the woman who died from cancer.... And the hardest is losing a child. Their son's close friend passed suddenly. Sending hugs and positive thoughts.

[@roxalavista4917]

These are two such amazing, wonderful people. As a never Mormon, I found myself thinking “ wow- that church really needs to take a serious look at itself if it’s losing people like this.” Their story will now be their service. Please thank them for the love they are bringing to the world.

[@dianethulin1700]

My sister is mentally ill and lived in SLC for several years before becoming homeless. I know that she had a bishop like Brother Johnson here who helped her when she needed it. I want you to know that what you did to help those in your ward made a big difference. Thank you! 🙏

[@PaulaBarton-fc7vx]

If I had been in your ward, and you had been released, I would have FoR SURE been devastated when you were released. I would have told you how much I appreciate(d) you for how you took care of the ward and how much you were a blessing to my family. My heart breaks for you that one one came up and acknowledged your service, but it doesn't surprise me.

[@nathanielwilkerson6217]

When I heard that part of the story I'm just really sad.

[@nickdipaolofan5948]

@@nathanielwilkerson6217 that part didn't surprise me that much because I had a similar experience. I was never a bishop or super connected and getting to talk to apostles, but I was an all in member who was mostly in Elders presidencies, YM presidencies, etc. When I started getting into church history I started asking questions to the bishop and stake president and got dismissed and given the run around. I wrote a letter to Salt Lake and was further dismissed. After refusing to move on from my questions I was released from my calling as punishment and threatened with apostacy because I was directly questioning my local leaders as well as the Q15 at that point. I went less active and almost nobody even batted an eye or tried to contact me and ask what was going on with me. I was active in that ward for almost 10 years.........

[@chayojavier]

Happy Holidays!! Thank you for all that you do!!

[@victoriaquentino5836]

My heart has gone out to this couple for what they have experienced. They are amazing people and will have a beautiful future together with their family. I am still going to church but have dug my heels in about certain issues and when the Bishop checks up on how I’m doing, I smile and tell him I’m ok - poor guy, he must be tearing his hair out because I will not be controlled! Jared and Camille may God Bless you and HE will.

[@jacoblewis2961]

Why Would you go to church when it's an absolute fabricated lie

[@BellaDigital-p7e]

I relate to this so much. My husband is in the SP and I have watched his mental health decline. Watch him develope anger issues. As a PIMO wife I find this incredibly hard.

[@canookinaz]

Oof~ bless you. That’s heart breaking. Steal him away and go heal together 😢❤ Dang it!!

[@evaang3616]

what do all the acronyms mean

[@CoronaryArteryDisease.]

@@evaang3616SP= stake presidency (oversee a bunch of congregations), PIMO= physically in mentally out (does not believe but still attends church)

[@dawnchurchill9717]

This is one of my favorite stories so far. Jared is truly a good person to not make his family feel guilty and shame them into going or to explore other people’s stories even while he was serving as Bishop. He truly put his family first and showed love and acceptance to them. I bet he was an amazing bishop. Growing up LDS until I left at age 23 I wish my dad had been like him and my bishops had been like him. It would have prevented so much pain ,guilt and shame. Love this brave power couple❤

[@tawnyachristensen7310]

I could relate to this couples story, thanks for sharing! I remember being dumbfounded when I went to lunch periodically with ladies from our Ward and had to listen to them criticize the decisions of my husband who was Bishop at the time. He was spending so much time away from us to serve the people of the Ward and it was heartbreaking to feel how unappreciated he was.

[@JulieA72]

Yes, ditto to this experience - criticism without any appreciation for the family’s sacrifice and burdens placed on them. Multiplied as leadership levels increase beyond the ward level, with an increasing sense of isolation and judgement. Exhausting but mitigated by the allusion that sacrifice brings the blessings of heaven, until you realize it doesn’t.

[@Jsppydays]

Excellent podcast cast. Beautiful couple thank you for sharing.

[@martha-meg]

My husband knew Jared as well. I am very happy for them both to gain their autonomy and authenticity!!🎉🎉

[@safari79]

You are such lovely people! Thanks for sharing!

[@1ccTooTall]

As a never Mormon Christian I am horrified by the fact that bishops are assigned so much responsibility. In Christian churches generally the leaders are pastors who have chosen the vocation and have gotten post-graduate degrees to equip them to the work. Then the churches choose their pastors from all over the country (world, really) to fit the “personality” of their congregations. Having someone plucked from the congregation (their peers) and assigned this difficult task seems fraught with structural problems.

[@smaug3045]

Their excuse for doing this is so that person can grow within the calling. True to a point, but what about all the casualties left behind in the growing process.

[@ccincc5633]

I was thinking much the same watching this! Incredible to see how a family becomes overwhelmed with taking on these callings while working so hard to raise their own families. I quite honestly saw considerably less commitment from the priests of the church I attended growing up and it was their only job with no family to look after. It’s astounding to see the LDS church lean so hard into the “idle hands” philosophy to the point of burn out of highly committed members.

[@lisagrace6471]

Great point

[@anthill1510]

Yes, they are bishops IN ADDITION to their dayjobs. It`s superhuman that they even manage that in most cases.

[@gaiaheart1]

Thank you Jared and Camille for sharing your profoundly powerful story. Your faces shone with radiant joy as you talked about the freedom to be authentically yourselves and that no longer being in the church that you are free to love the wider humanity outside the confines on Mormonism. This is one of my top three episodes! Sending love from Australia

[@kevins4254]

I've never been Mormon but I have an LDS church across the street from my house. Last summer, there were about a half dozen times where the bishop of the local ward came out of church on Sunday afternoon while I was outside grilling. He came over and we had some great discussions that allowed him to unload his stress and frustrations on me. I think I was someone he could talk to without any judgement or repercussions. I felt so sorry for him and it was so obvious he never should have been selected as bishop. Of course, he felt pressured to accept the calling. He's still the bishop right now and I literally worry for his health and marriage.

[@HotRaptor]

I disagree that he shouldn’t have been selected as a Bishop! He’s a marvelous leader and clearly led with vision and integrity. The way the Mormon church, and its vast wealth, treats the members and leaders is unacceptable and Jared’s reaction and remarks demonstrate that! The Mormon church is EVIL!

[@adrianaecheverri3317]

Thank you for an insightful and compassionate story.

[@JanPeterson-k9k]

You are an amazing couple and you are on the right path. My husband and I took the same journey over 45 years ago. I was the one who came apart and my husband stood by me in ways that still make me feel stunned anyone could love me so much. We had 56 years together. He was the love of my life and my very best friend. Forty years from now you will look back and be so grateful to your younger selves for having the courage to step out of the shelter of the greenhouse and into the beauty and adventure of the real world. Bon voyage!😊❤❤❤

[@chrisleggett1303]

I feel so validated. Thank you for sharing your story. I had multiple breakdowns in EQ president and bishopric callings. I asked to be released from both. My mental health is so much better!

[@GusGus0118]

The time spent in callings was a huge shelf item for me. If the the church was all about families why was I alone every Sunday and during the week while my husband was out serving in his calling, and then they wanted me to have big callings while he was serving too. I was like, “who’s gonna be home with my children?!! I felt so justified when you guys talked about it. I also noticed the same people were getting called over and over for the “big callings” I felt bad because I wanted them to have a break.

[@carolinad878]

That’s what my ex Mormon sister in law says about my brother in law when he was a bishop, she was a stay at home mom who her husband was available to members but not to her. He was gone all the time and left her alone

[@rmj4978]

Margie and John you are both amazing hosts! This was another wonderful episode, addressed sensitively. The Johnson’s seem to be wonderful people. Thanks for all you do❤

[@HotRaptor]

I’m an ex-mormon and your story was so incredible! The service you provided was so kind and meaningful and loving to be treated the way you were is absolutely infuriating! I worked among mormons and they are the most heartless, judgmental, hateful group of people I ever encountered. I wish you both a happy future filled with love, compassion and kindness that is REAL! Thank you so much for sharing your story!

[@carolineraines6465]

What a beautiful story! Wishing them all the happiness and peace. I wish the church had more bishops like Jared!

[@kristinenelson990]

People are not PROJECTS!! From at the very end. I'm so grateful for this episode

[@greg6924]

Another stellar episode! Kudos to all involved.

[@cathyjo5259]

Really beautiful episode. My goodness, thank you so much for sharing your experiences. ❤

[@hollih4839]

I am just overwhelmed at the love Jared has for his wife. Allowing her to find her way and not treat it as a negative is so beautiful. What an amazing man. I loved their story

[@juancarlosverdugosanchez4296]

Ex Mormon from Mexico. Thank you for sharing your life experience in the church. You are a great and beautiful couple, Hi to John and wife. great Job you are doing.

[@MillaJ100]

Loved hearing from this couple- thanks for being vulnerable 😊🩷

[@TheSaintelias]

She is so correct. Moving beyond the church taught judgment one really begins to see the wonders of other people.

[@bodytrainer1crane730]

I so agree with this.

[@kellymilnerhalls1723]

What a remarkable episode.

[@suzijeffs529]

My heart broke when you expressed the hurt you felt when you were told “the way you wanted to serve wasn’t okay”. So crushing 💔

[@LocaW8ta]

I resonate so much with Camille speaking on her love for people and hearing others experiences. I’ve realized that even though I have not been active for about 20 years and don’t even have a ‘dog in the race’ so to speak when it comes to the church, that every episode I have listened to, I find myself weeping as I hear others sharing their experiences. I truly, truly enjoy the MS podcast. It is absolutely fascinating and validating to hear others stories. I commend those who are brave enough to share. These are so well done and exponentially thought provoking. I feel that social media is a catalyst for visibility of these stories and I look forward to more people stepping outside of the bubble and experiencing the beautiful awakening like Camille and Jared. Thank you again for being vulnerable enough to share your experience. Best of luck to you both. John and Margi-you are so appreciated. Phenomenal questions and discussion as usual ❤

[@betsybrennan7101]

So happy to be a new donor! You both do amazing work with the people. The stories you find and the way they are told have helped me as a non-Mormon living in Sandy emotionally cope with all these Mormons. I do feel completely invisible. I have never lived in such an isolating community. I am shunned as a pariah and it feels really bad. But the stories you tell are so valuable. Thank you and God bless you. Tonight I’m going to see Heretic with my daughter who is the opposite of me politically. ❤

[@1mindurs]

This episode really struck a chord with me; so many of the themes resonated deeply with my life. It saddens me that our friends and family often struggle to communicate with us after we've left. Yet, in a way, it highlights that much of our conversations were centered around church-related topics. Unfortunately, even within families, genuine connections are often missing because we lost our authentic selves. Congratulations on rediscovering your true selves.

[@tetuanuijimmy6052]

Former bishop can totally relate. Awesome episode!

[@jackmagdiel1750]

Thank you. We all have stories. Religion is the most deep feelings for many. That's why this "story" touched my emotion so much. Much of what you have shared felt so familiar. I am experiencing the joy of my present relationship with reality. ❤

[@HPM503]

Thank you John for the years of work you have done in Mormon Stories. 20 years ago is when I dove into studying the Mormon truth claims and history. I pretty much did it alone with little support except for my poor coworkers that had to suffer through my long winded talk processing. Mormon Stories has provided much needed validation.

[@Itsjoma1]

Years ago our Bishop came to me and told me my daughter couldn't go to girls camp because he thought she was a lesbian. Has she done anything wrong I asked him? He said he had heard from kids at school she was holding hands with another girl. I told him there would be a lawsuit if she wasn't allowed to go. Being a lesbian did not make her a predator.

[@donnellallan]

I love this! Thank you for standing up for your daughter. 🩷🩷🩷

[@juliehatch9861]

Just because she was holding hands doesn't mean she is a leisbean. Shameful to assume.

[@IntegrityFirstContractor]

Latter Day Struggles podcast has been a great help to me, deconstructing my LDS beliefs and the devastating emotions that come with realizing the false truth claims and religious manipulation from the church.

[@music54186]

Never Mormon here, but I wanted to say that some of the upbringing and mental health discussions were so helpful in my own family/religious healing. Pointing out the pattern of children sparing their parents stress and how damaging it can be was so helpful (extra thanks to Margie!). I recently had a mental breakdown caring for my ill mother and just hearing how normal those feelings are made me feel so much less alone. There was so much benefit to watching this and I'm forever grateful to everyone to participated in this episode ❤ sending all the support, love and acceptance to the guests. I couldn't even imagine doing all that serving, yet your community didn't give any consideration back. You guys are welcome with us heathens (non believers/LGBTQ+) anytime! You all sound like amazing people and I hope your find the peace and community you deserve 💖

[@917hazel]

To be vulnerable is actually empowering. Anyone who thinks otherwise, concerning a situation like this, is simply envious and threatened by the honesty of these two ppl 🙏

[@lisabowers724]

I’m a “never Mormon” but somehow tripped over the Mormon Stories podcast some time ago. I have so much love and respect for Jared and Camille - and their family - and the sharing of this story. Thank you for sharing! And Camille - nice work doing a hard pivot when your daughter shared her thought about a second piercing…I have no doubt that spoke volumes to her about her worth in your eyes, compared to the human-made (random and ridiculous) rules of the church. ❤️

[@Chi-TownMark]

Thanks!

[@erinrametta1]

Very kind!

[@bgchamp2013]

When he talked about getting released and no one talked to him. It’s a sad truth about the church is they will suck the life out of you and when they’re done they will throw you aside like a broke toy. I felt the same way when I was really struggling with everything and I reached out to the church. I was left on read. When I asked my elders quorum president for a blessing, I got do you really need one. I stopped going, not one person reached out.

[@taleof2wives187]

My family is not LDS but I was raised in a patriarchal system where religious education was used as a fear/control tactic. My father was a public servant turned educator turned church leader. He had his first mental breakdown around 40 like Jared and his second in his mid 60s which unfortunately claimed his life. I cannot express how proud I am of the Johnsons. Breaking the cycle is so hard but the fact that they are leaning on each other and learning from their family unit is so inspiring. Much love.

[@jaysonpowell8708]

I’m pretty sure I went to high school with Jared, glad to see people are waking up. Best of luck.

[@Triathletforlife]

Hearing others “story” helps me realize I’m not alone in my concerns, that I’m not crazy for having serious questions, and that I’m not controlled by the devil (which is what all the general conference talks tell me, that I’ve let evil take over my life).

[@jconwell84]

Great story. Thank you for your service. I am still a member but inactive. I found many church members to be the most insincere and fake people in my life. My faith, too, is based love, hope and the knowledge that God is better than the Church allows us to believe.

[@catalinabecerrajaar6516]

I’m a catholic and Chilean, and a huge fan of Mormon stories, but it’s really deeply saddening to hear how many people (including baptized Catholics) have been tricked into Mormon baptisms. I met some missionaries a few months ago, and they conveniently go to the poorest areas of the city, where people don’t speak English and probably don’t understand what they are doing. Great episode!

[@chadwickgordon5817]

Perfect example of “The pot calling the kettle black.”

[@catalinabecerrajaar6516]

I haven’t gone on any missions to foreign countries trying to baptize people into Catholicism by tricking them, so not really

[@saralyg]

Mormon missionaries tend to prey on Catholics and I’ve actually heard them say that Catholics are some of the easiest converts to get.

[@LopsidedLiahona]

Missionaries are trained to speak the language of the country they are going to (or the language of the population they are serving), so the scenario you described is misinformed. Chilean missionaries would learn Spanish; they would not go to the poorest parts of town & try to teach in English.

[@marlenedaltonadams3278]

This has been absolutely BEAUTIFUL. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING Your STORIES. I APPRECIATE YOU ALL SO MUCH ❤

[@kaysharogers32]

Beautiful couple. Beautiful story. I hope your family continues to thrive.

[@Spoonyforky]

Great episode. So happy for Jared, Camille and their family. Living in the moment is what it’s all about. ❤

[@kimberlythomas4373]

In reference to no one in Jared and Camille's ward saying anything to them after he was released..... I'm so sorry. That is heartbreaking. I had a similar experience with the way other members have acted. Just so so unkind and inconsiderate. It made me sit down and really think about who these people are. Jared and Camille's experience resonated with me so so much.

[@monica11119]

Draper is a nice place to live, I love it too! (we are neighbors maybe, 😋) I'm glad to know that Jared really liked the culture and the people of my beloved Chile. I'm so happy to know that you and your wife are now free spirits, like me. Warm regards from a Chilean-American ex-Mormon. 🙏💜💫

[@brookenicole7209]

Margi, thank you for saying, "Now you are in alignment with your values" AND "You deserve good care and to receive good love; not just give it." I'm a never-Mo, but on a day when I am desperate to have anyone say that to me - I HEARD you. It brought tears to my eyes. Thank you. May God keep you and bless you always.

[@mylittlebug14]

😘❤

[@Deathhikeauntie]

A devout woman denied a temple recommend due to her husband’s actions is proof of the fact that women aren’t individuals responsible for their own agency in this church. What’s the point for women to do anything good if it just matters what the man does.

[@williamwood3290]

This couple seems extremely happy! I am happy for them.

[@Fatfinger4378]

Thanks to all of you for this great episode! The Mormon Discussions type episodes are great as well, but these stories are why I fell in love with MS several years ago and this one is why I donated again (can only do occasional one-time donations) since these episodes are the most meaningful to me and are what I think MS is all about. Thanks again!

[@benjamintaylor96]

I would love to see an episode that interviews a panel of nevermormons who have been watching these episodes for a long time. I know there’s lots of them listening and following and I want to hear what makes these experiences so compelling when they never lived through these experiences, at least in the same context. If this has been done before please point me in the right direction.

[@pastimesfarm]

I agree.

[@blisteryurt]

agree!

[@aaronhawkins1541]

I'm an exjw. I watch because I lived a very similar experience in the Jehovah's Witnesses. It took me a few episodes to learn the theology and beliefs of mormonism but all the trauma it causes is the same. I watch Mormon stories just about everyday while I work. All of them are touching, inspiring, and triggering. I really feel like we are cousins in religious trauma. Thank you to everyone who has shared their story. ❤

[@hippychicken82]

I'm a never mormon. I have been listening to mormon stories for few years, and to be completely honest I started watching as I have a fascination with cults and deprogramming from cult tactics, so follow scientology ex members and other cults. so liked to listen to how these people have deprogramed from being lds. I do not know any mormon in real life I don't live in US. Its not common where I live. Being mormon sounds so exhausting

[@Misty_Haze]

I'm a never mormon also. I watch to learn about stuff I've never had exposure to.

[@selenemize]

Your goodness really shines through your story. I am so glad that you have found a better way for yourselves.

[@kjens8617]

Can’t stop thinking about this interview. Their stake president really did them a disservice by releasing Jared as bishop without any kind of comment or speech from Jared or even the stake president. The stake president knew Jared hadn’t done anything wrong. What an utter disappointment after all this couple had given to the church. And then telling them they should probably move? Incredible. Wonderful interview of a wonderful couple!

[@melissafennemore5848]

What an inspiring couple. Thanks for sharing your story!

[@Hatchification]

thank you for sharing. I felt so badly about how you were so conspicuously ignored and cancelled by everyone the Sunday you were released. It must have been so incredibly awkward to suddenly become completely invisible. I served so devotedly in high profile callings for 50 years when I left, and I have been treated as if I never existed. Not one person has ever asked me what happened. Its still stunning to me.

[@wassupstock]

Great story, both of you. Also, thank you for your service in coming here, for your gift of self, and your authenticity.

[@SarahBoyden]

Such an interesting episode thank you! totally could’ve been my path. Married by elder Nelson, (I still remember walking Into his office & that interview & thinking about the “all seeing eye” 😳 husband on the fast track- was the photo in the SFY pamphlet of the one bearing his testimony, EQP at age 21, etc. multiple missions, blessing said he would go on four or more so I had to figure out how to prepare to be his counterpart. but we veered off that trajectory. Interesting seeing how it plays out when you left later on. Thanks for sharing! I was so surprised learning how much of bishop’s job is finances & that soo many ppl Receive $$. Sometimes it feels like on single mothers that the church creates the problem by making them give up their careers etc & then when they are left destitute, they still have to come ask a man for help & he calls the shots, yet tells her to become self sufficient. Wait but you guys are the one that MADE her dependent in the first place?🤔We lived in a poor city ward overseas & the bishop was so overwhelmed he had my husband doing some of the finance work that only the bishop is suppose to do. I felt so uncomfortable & also was like wait I’m the finance major, I could do this yet they just hand you guys massive budgets & $$ w/zero training & you just wing it?? eye opening how clueless I was about church finances as a female.

[@jewl4me]

This was such a good episode! I can relate with nearly everything they said!

[@aaronhawkins1541]

Another great episode. It was emotional and inspiring. Thank you for sharing Jared & Camille ❤️

[@marlenemeyer9841]

I remember having a breaking point where I told my Bishop husband I needed him to be released. Took another 25 years to deconstruct because of my deep fears of listening to my inner voice that the truth claims weren’t adding up. I wish I had been strong enough when I was younger to be true to myself.

[@Billvardy]

I’m nearing completion of this podcast. So many emotions and memories. I spent most of my adult life in ward and stake leadership that took me away from my family. I was so narrow focused on Mormonism that it consumed my life. Looking back since leaving in 2021, I have so many regrets. Thankfully all of my children have left the church and live their own authentic lives. Jared and Camille, thank you for being sincere, honest and vulnerable. I am seeing many people I have known over the years now leaving the church. I’m sure y’all are seeing the same. Somehow through intentional control and brainwashing , we’re trapped in living lives that don’t bring true joy or happiness. To take the planning salvation and call it the plan off happiness is imo disrespectful to Jesus Christ. I wish y’all the best and God bless your family . Much respect 🙏

[@lisagrace6471]

Congratulations on coming to yourself and for being brave. I am sorry for what the church has stolen from you, but it also sounds like you are moving forward in a good direction. I am happy for you and your kids!

[@WillCook-c3k]

Hopefully Those who leave the LDS faith and other faiths as well stay strong in God! Strong religiosity is not a walk with God it is a walk with man. A walk with God is completely different. Both Jared and Camille are so full of the Spirit of God. I am grateful they both were able to leave a very toxic and disturbing lifestyle. God Bless both of you and your children as well. I find the Calvary Chapel to be a great place to study the Bible. I know your struggles have gone through a departure from the LDS Church years ago. You both are awesome, thank you for sharing your story!

[@ruby1037]

Amazing! More power to your family thru love...,

[@cleocheney6360]

Such a good interview. Great couple. Margi is so insightful 💖

[@the-salamander4truth]

Great episode! Big hug and thanks to the Johnson’s!

[@Jessicace]

I like this couple. They feel very 'real' and seem like they have and are, really growing throughout their journey. Although, I feel perhaps a bit of deflection/defensiveness around the reality of the privilege they experience/d- I could definitely be off the mark, though. Loved the episode and appreciate how hard it must be for a family in this position in the community to speak honestly about their experiences ❤️