It's Now Again by Jeremy West

In this episode, I’m joined by Matthew Boswell for a slow, open conversation across difference. Matt and I come from very different backgrounds. I approach mindfulness from a secular, psychology based perspective. Matt moved through atheism and later returned to Christianity, and now serves as a pastor. Rather than debating beliefs or trying to persuade each other, we talk about how belief forms,...

Join comedian (and philosopher?) Myq Kaplan and I for a long, reflective conversation about his experiences with ayahuasca. Rather than offering advice or instruction, Myq speaks openly about what these experiences were like for him, how they shifted his relationship with fear, death, love, and belief, and how he now holds uncertainty with more ease. We talk about psychedelic experiences not as an...

Deconstructing your faith is a deeply personal and often painful journey, especially when it’s intertwined with trauma. In today’s episode, we explore the struggles of processing a fundamentalist upbringing, dealing with PTSD rooted in religion, and addressing well-meaning but challenging questions from family. Discover how mindfulness can help you rest comfortably in the unknown and empower you t...

Moving from shame and self-hatred to self-love is a vital step in your deconstruction journey, especially when leaving evangelical culture and its toxic teachings. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West shares practical tools, book recommendations, and alternative practices for cultivating self-compassion and silencing the internal voices of shame.

Leaving a faith tradition can feel like losing a connection to the spiritual practices that once grounded us. In this episode, Jeremy shares his personal journey of deconstructing evangelical Christianity and finding new ways to engage with spirituality. Whether it’s through mindfulness, connecting with nature, or observing the beauty in life’s patterns, Jeremy explores how to create a non-religio...

What do you do when the idea of God feels overwhelming or anxiety-inducing? In this episode, Jeremy West explores how mindfulness can help you navigate feelings of dread and powerlessness when grappling with existential questions about life, death, and the nature of God. Discover tools to find peace in uncertainty, reclaim a sense of agency, and cultivate a life grounded in the present moment.

Religious teachings that frame suffering as deserved can deeply harm our mental health, especially for those already dealing with depression. In this episode, Jeremy West explores how mindfulness can help us deconstruct these beliefs, reclaim a sense of safety in the world, and cultivate self-compassion. Learn practical steps to heal from the damage caused by harmful theological ideas and reconnec...

During deconstruction, standard Christian phrases can feel like roadblocks to genuine connection. In this episode, Jeremy West shares insights into navigating the frustration of reductive religious language. Learn how mindfulness can help you process these moments, reclaim meaningful conversations, and engage with others authentically, even when faced with triggering phrases.

Even after leaving a faith tradition, the fear of hell can linger, deeply ingrained in our minds and emotions. In this episode, Jeremy West explores why this fear persists and how mindfulness can help untangle its grip. Learn practical techniques for acknowledging fear, challenging beliefs, and embracing peace through curiosity and self-compassion.

Life is full of unexpected challenges, like flat tires on a Saturday night. In this episode, Jeremy West shares how a mindfulness parable helped him navigate a difficult setback with curiosity and acceptance. Learn how to shift your perspective, respond to challenges with grace, and embrace life’s uncertainties as opportunities for growth.

Parenting after leaving a faith tradition can feel daunting, as you navigate life without the guidance of religious frameworks. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West shares practical mindfulness strategies for redefining values, fostering open communication, and raising children with authenticity and empathy. Discover how to create new traditions, guide moral dilemmas, and support...

Leaving a faith tradition often brings profound questions about life's uncertainties, including the fear of death In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West explores how mindfulness can help you embrace life’s impermanence, find peace in the present, and reframe death as part of a natural cycle. Learn grounding exercises, reflection practices, and affirmations to navigate this fear wit...

Religious trauma can leave lasting emotional scars, but healing is possible. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West explores how mindfulness can help you process pain, release guilt, and rebuild trust in yourself. Learn practical steps, from grounding techniques to reframing spirituality, that will guide you toward a life of authenticity and peace.

After leaving a faith tradition, finding joy can feel like an uphill battle. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West explores how to redefine joy on your terms, let go of "shoulds," and embrace the small, meaningful moments that bring happiness. Learn practical steps to cultivate gratitude, build connections, and discover joy that feels authentic to your journey.

Gratitude might feel out of reach when navigating the challenges of leaving a faith tradition, but it can become a powerful tool for healing and growth. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West explores how gratitude helps anchor us in the present, reframe challenges, and find small moments of beauty amidst uncertainty. Learn practical techniques to cultivate gratitude daily and tran...

In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, we tackle a vital question: how do you explore and integrate new spiritual or philosophical perspectives that align with your evolving beliefs? Discover how mindfulness, curiosity, and openness can guide your journey, helping you build a worldview that feels authentic and meaningful. We’ll discuss using your values as a compass, experimenting with practic...

Faith deconstruction can be an emotionally challenging journey, filled with grief, anxiety, and uncertainty. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, we explore practical ways to support your mental health. From mindfulness exercises and therapy options to finding community and practicing self-care, discover the resources and strategies that can help you navigate this transformative process with...

How do you maintain meaningful relationships with family and friends who remain in the religious tradition you've left? In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, we explore how mindfulness can help you approach these dynamics with compassion, clarity, and boundaries. Discover practical strategies to foster understanding, maintain your authenticity, and navigate challenging interactions while hono...

Developing a moral framework outside of religious doctrines can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a chance to align your values with your authentic self. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West guides you through steps to reflect on your core values, cultivate empathy, make mindful decisions, and learn from mistakes. Discover how mindfulness can help you create a meaningful and ethic...

Fear of judgment from loved ones can make the deconstruction journey even more challenging. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West explores how mindfulness can help you manage the fear of criticism and rejection with clarity and compassion. Learn how to set healthy boundaries, respond intentionally, and find strength in your truth while fostering understanding and connection.

Anxiety and uncertainty often accompany the deconstruction journey, leaving us feeling untethered and unsure of the future. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West shares practical mindfulness techniques and personal insights to help you navigate these challenging emotions. Learn how to anchor yourself in the present moment, embrace the unknown with curiosity, and cultivate self-com...

Emotions can feel overwhelming, especially during the upheaval of leaving a faith-based community. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction , Jeremy West explores the metaphor of emotions as weather, offering mindfulness practices to navigate the storms of grief, anger, confusion, and doubt. Learn how to observe your emotional "weather" without judgment, anchor yourself in your values, and rebuil...

Leaving a faith-based community often leaves us questioning who we are. In this episode of Mindful Deconstruction, Jeremy West explores how mindfulness can guide us in rebuilding our identity with intention and compassion. Discover practical steps to embrace uncertainty, define your core values, and reconnect with your authentic self. Whether you’re feeling lost or ready to start fresh, this episo...

This is a speech I'm giving at a Toastmasters speech competition tomorrow in which I share my personal journey of recognizing life's subtle and not-so-subtle lessons. Through the metaphor of feathers, bricks, and trucks, Jeremy explores how life's challenges guide us toward mindfulness and self-discovery. From career dissatisfaction to a life-altering accident, learn how mindfulness can transform...

Explores the journey of finding purpose after leaving religion. Discover how to redefine your values, create a fulfilling life on your terms, and embrace the process of self-discovery. Jeremy shares insights and practical strategies for building a meaningful life rooted in mindfulness and authenticity. Whether you’re navigating feelings of loss or seeking new ways to live with intention, this epis...