Episode 31: From Worship Stage to Authentic Voice
Content Note
This episode includes discussion of religious deconstruction, spiritual harm, and leaving high-control church environments.
Episode Description
This week on The Awakening, Tamara and I sit down with Joshua and Prez Colburn — artists, musicians, and voices in the deconstruction space.
Joshua shares his experience as a former megachurch worship leader and what it was like to step away from a role that once defined his identity. Prez walks us through her own journey of deconstruction alongside him, and how their relationship evolved as their beliefs began to shift.
Together, they open up about what it looks like to leave behind performance-based faith and rediscover authenticity — not just personally, but creatively.
We also talk about their work as influencers and artists in the deconstruction space, and Prez shares about her upcoming song Fence Sitter, a piece that captures the tension of questioning, uncertainty, and standing in the in-between.
This conversation is honest, creative, and a powerful look at what happens when you choose truth over performance.
In This Episode, We Discuss
- Life as a megachurch worship leader
- Deconstructing as a couple
- Identity beyond church roles
- Healing from performance-based faith
- Creativity and expression after deconstruction
- The story behind Fence Sitter
About Our Guests
Joshua and Prezleigh Colburn are artists and musicians who share their journey of deconstruction through music, storytelling, and online presence. Their work centers around authenticity, healing, and creating space for others navigating life after faith.
🎧 Connect with Joshua
https://linktr.ee/Originalsinfluencer
🎶 Connect with Prezleigh
https://linktr.ee/prezmoymusic
Why This Episode Matters
For many, deconstruction isn’t just internal — it impacts relationships, identity, and creative expression. Joshua and Prezleigh’s story highlights what it looks like to walk that path together, navigating uncertainty while choosing honesty over expectation.
It’s a reminder that there is life — and even beauty — on the other side of performance.
About the Show
The Awakening is a podcast centered on religious deconstruction, survivor stories, and rebuilding life after faith. We create space for honesty, healing, and community beyond fear-based systems.
🎶 Intro/Outro Music
Your Poison by Rox Knox
Connect with Your Hosts
Heather — https://linktr.ee/Happyheathersmiles
Tamara — TikTok @feralatheistjezebel321 | Instagram @tamarajo321
🎥 Watch the show on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@TheAwakeningPodcast-w6s
📩 Interested in being a guest?
theawakeningpod@gmail.com
Listener Care Reminder
If this episode brings up parts of your own journey, take your time with it. You’re allowed to question, to evolve, and to create a life that feels true to you — even if it looks nothing like what you were taught.
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