Broadening the Narrative: Honoring the Journey of Nicki Pappas

Today we welcome my longtime friend, Nicki Pappas, for a deeply personal and vulnerable conversation. Nicki shares her story of growing up in the Southern Baptist church, navigating fundamentalist spaces, and ultimately deconstructing her faith. We also explore themes of spiritual abuse, self-love, embodiment, therapy, and the journey toward authenticity. Nicki opens up about her evolving beliefs, coming out as queer, and the importance of living a life rooted in love rather than fear. The episode is rich with reflections on family, community, boundaries, and the courage it takes to embrace one’s true self. Find out more about Nicki at https://www.nickipappas.comPoints of Interest:Nicki’s upbringing in a Southern Baptist church and transition into more fundamentalist spaces.The impact of church teachings on fear, anxiety, and self-worth.Experiences with spiritual abuse and leaving a toxic church environment.The role of therapy (especially Internal Family Systems) and embodiment practices in healing.The importance of curiosity, vulnerability, and authenticity in personal growth.Reflections on self-love, boundaries, and letting go of people-pleasing.Nicki’s journey of coming out as queer and exploring non-monogamy.The influence of key figures like Donna Powell and the power of love at the end of life.Insights on parenting, breaking generational cycles, and giving children tools for emotional health.The value of community, safe spaces, and finding peace with being misunderstood.Embracing joy, freedom, and living for the sake of love rather than out of fear or obligation. Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease.Pick up Leslie's book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here.Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire.Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here!If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community!  Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.