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HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons hosts the most downloaded sports podcast of all time, with a rotating crew of celebrities, athletes, and media staples, as well as mainstays like Cousin Sal, Joe House, and a slew of other friends and family members who always happen to be suspiciously available.
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In this candid conversation, Mike shares his path from a devout Lutheran youth leader and Boy Scout to an openly bisexual atheist who rebuilt his life after addiction, prison, and deep personal conflict. We discuss the pressures of growing up in a conservative religious environment, wrestling with questions about faith and morality, and the cost of living a double life.
Mike opens up about the role military service, the loss of community, and hidden identity played in his struggles, and how moving to a more accepting environment, getting mental health support, and embracing authenticity changed his life. This is a raw, honest look at belief, deconversion, and finding purpose beyond religion.
📑 Relevant Topics / Chapter Headings
- Growing up Lutheran and feeling “in the in-group”
- Transitioning from religious school to public school
- Leadership roles in church and Boy Scouts
- Early doubts about God and reading the Bible critically
- Navigating bisexuality in a conservative faith community
- Military service and living a double life
- Alcoholism, PTSD, and the path to recovery
- Prison, stigma, and second chances
- Finding acceptance and purpose after deconversion
- Lessons for others questioning their faith
Visit us at www.Atheistville.com for more content from Mike Smithgall and the Atheistville team
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