In this captivating interview, Alyssa shares poignant moments that shaped her perception of gender roles, societal expectations, and the struggle for self-worth within the Mormon context. The narrative explores her attempts to reconcile personal identity with the rigid doctrines of the Church, touching on themes of control, body autonomy, and the internal conflicts that arise when faith clashes with individual growth.

Alyssa recounts her mission, marriage, and the disillusionment that eventually led to her departure from the Mormon Church. The interview offers a powerful reflection on the cost of leaving behind the familiar for the pursuit of personal authenticity. Listeners are invited to join this intimate journey of self-discovery, challenging societal norms, and finding empowerment outside the constraints of religious expectations.

Alyssa’s new book, "How to Leave the Mormon Church" can be purchased here: https://a.co/d/aMFgG8D

Pt 2: https://youtube.com/live/HEyxNLBNTN0

Episode Show Notes: https://www.mormonstories.org/portfol...

Chapters:
00:00:00 Intro
00:17:42 Beginning her Mormon story in Montana
00:18:56 Gender discrepancy
00:25:55 Training kids to be baptized
00:31:00 Biology class
00:41:05 Not wanting to grow up, but to stay young and innocent, etc. - Reading McCurdy’s 00:56:35 Skipping class and going to the library with friends
01:00:00 Dating in High School
01:05:05 A Father’s Blessing, saying she will be an “English teacher”
01:21:35 Alyssa’s temple experience
*01:28:02 The temple film was offensive
01:36:00 White handbook rules for missionaries
01:41:25 Parents going through a divorce during mission
01:52:00 Religious scrupulosity
01:54:20 Meeting her husband
02:03:00 Marrying her husband
02:10:00 Experiences as a teacher, smoke bombs, etc.
02:22:30 Summary of the Emmett Till story
03:00:00 Getting coffee for the first time after leaving the church, age 24j
03:07:08 Live a life that is led from within
03:27:50 Owning your own life outside of Mormonism (until 28:48)

___________________

At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.

Our overall mission is to:
1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology
2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis
3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

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