Messy Genes
Two Sisters. Too opinionated. Zero Clue.
We’re Carly and Cindy, and we were raised to be obedient, modest, and quiet. Instead, we got divorced, left the Mormon church, and started a podcast. Messy Genes is where we unpack everything from religious deconstruction to dating after 7-20 years of marriage—with a lot of sarcasm, sister banter, and oversharing along the way.
If you've ever been labeled “too much,” “too loud,” or just plain “too messy,” you're in the right place. Grab a drink and join us as we laugh, rant, and unlearn the stuff we were told was sacred.
Messy Genes
Let Them Be Messy: Leaving the Mormon Church as a Teen
In this episode of Messy Genes hosts Carly and Cindy bring on a special guest, Carly's daughter, Cadence, to discuss their experiences leaving the church. The trio explores the complexities of faith transitions, parenting teens through such changes, and the impact on friendships and personal growth. They candidly talk about Cadence's journey of self-discovery, her evolving beliefs, the adjustments in parenting strategies post-church, and the newfound freedom that comes with leaving organized religion. Sprinkled with humor and heartfelt reflections, this episode provides an insightful look into the challenges and joys of living life authentically after a significant religious shift.
00:00 Introduction and Banter
00:31 Special Guest: Cadence
01:08 Cadence's Story: Leaving the Church
02:00 Social Media and Bernedoodles
03:58 Gym Routines and Sleep Struggles
06:11 Cadence's Nannying and Spa Jobs
09:39 Mormon Culture and Personal Reflections
30:21 The Sex Talk and Friendships
42:28 Questioning Religious Beliefs
43:06 Embracing Uncertainty
43:31 Toxic Relationships and Personal Growth
44:03 Navigating High School During COVID
45:03 Parenting Through Change
47:04 Open Communication and Trust
50:01 Teenage Rebellion and Acceptance
57:34 Privacy and Independence
01:05:27 Music and Personal Beliefs
01:11:48 Advice for Parents Leaving the Church
01:21:33 Concluding Thoughts and Farewells