K2C 2 - Leaving Mormonism: Why Tact Matters When Talking with LDS Family and Friends

When someone leaves the LDS Church, emotions often run high. Questions, frustration, and years of suppressed doubts can suddenly spill out—and sometimes the result is sarcasm, arguments, or harsh words that damage important relationships. In this episode of From Kolob to Calvary, Tracy Tennant discusses one of the most common mistakes people make when leaving Mormonism: abandoning tact and sensitivity when speaking with believing family members and friends. While it can be tempting to challenge every Mormon belief or point out doctrinal problems in heated conversations, this approach often creates unnecessary conflict and closes the door to meaningful dialogue. In this episode, Tracy explores: • Why sarcasm and argumentative debates often backfire • How disrespectful comments can harm relationships with LDS loved ones • Why tact and courtesy matter even when you strongly disagree • Practical wisdom for navigating conversations about faith with Mormon family members • How to speak truth without burning relational bridges Quoting the wise counsel of Oliver Wendell Holmes, Tracy reminds listeners: "The nearer you come into relation with a person, the more necessary do tact and courtesy become." If you are transitioning out of the LDS Church or learning how to discuss your beliefs with Mormon family and friends, this episode offers helpful guidance for communicating with both honesty and grace. For more resources supporting those leaving Mormonism and discovering biblical Christianity, visit The Mormon Matrix. This episode is part of the Leaving Mormonism series. If you are in the process of leaving the LDS Church, you may also find the other episodes in this series helpful as you navigate relationships, emotional recovery, and life after Mormonism. NOTE: This episode was recorded during the early days of the podcast (2015) when everything was a little more "live and unscripted." Thanks for extending grace as the microphone and I were still getting acquainted.