Why We Stay explores the reasons people choose to stay in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while navigating questions, history, personal wrestles, and modern complexity. Hosted and created by Kalyx Christensen-Bell, the show blends scripture, storytelling, and lived experience to highlight how truth, revelation, and Christ-centered discipleship shape our spiritual paths. Whether you’ve stayed, stepped away, or are in between, we pray this podcast meets you with honesty and hope.
episode 3: Faithful and Gay ft. Ben Schilaty, Author and LCSW
In this episode, we explore the profound journeys of faith and identity within the LDS community, focusing on authentic love, acceptance, and the ongoing effort to bridge cultural gaps.
Our guest, Ben Schilaty, shares his personal story of navigating his sexuality while remaining committed to his faith, and offers insights on fostering empathy and understanding in a complex world.
Main Topics Covered:
The intersection of faith and LGBTQ+ identity in the LDS Church
How personal experiences reshape perceptions of community and doctrine
The importance of love, curiosity, and grace in navigating cultural differences
Practical ways to support and include LGBTQ+ members in church life
The role of scripture, prayer, and personal revelation in living authentically
How church culture can evolve to better serve all members
Stories of community, acceptance, and the divine love of God
29 Jun 2026
episode 2: room for everyone ft. Richard Ostler, Host of the Listen, Learn, and Love Podcast
In this heartfelt interview, Richard Ostler shares his journey from being a YSA Bishop to becoming an advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the LDS Church. The conversation explores how to create safe, loving communities that reflect the teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing understanding, vulnerability, and ongoing revelation.
31 May 2026
I Owe You an Explanation: Welcome to Season 3
I realized something recently that completely shifted how I see faith — and it’s not what I expected. 😊
Drop a 🙌 if you’re still figuring this out too.
After years of holding onto a rigid view of faith, I finally understood that faith isn't about certainty — it's about hope.
Real faith means embracing the unknown, trusting Jesus even when we don’t have all the answers. That’s what keeps me coming back, not perfection or confirmation.I used to think certainty and faith were the same — but they’re not. Faith requires vulnerability, recognizing our doubts, and still choosing Jesus every day.It’s a journey I’m still on, and I bet many of you are too.
But I do believe the heart of it all is Jesus — His love, His grace, His willingness to meet us in our mess.Maybe it’s time we stopped demanding proof and started living out that hope.
What’s your take? Do you see faith differently now?
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
10 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
20 ratings
Contact Why We Stay
Guest appearances
Books guests
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