Deconstruction Isn’t Deconversion: Margaret Bronson on What the Church Gets Wrong

What does it actually mean to “deconstruct” your faith—and why are so many people doing it?

In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Margaret Rose Bronson, founder of Deconstruction Doulas, a support network helping people navigate religious trauma and high-control church environments. Drawing from her own experience inside patriarchal and authoritarian church systems, Margaret explains the difference between deconstruction and deconversion, and why that distinction matters.

The conversation explores how certain theological frameworks can lead to control, shame, and harm—particularly for women—and how these systems often operate beneath the surface of otherwise “normal” church communities. Margaret also breaks down the role of a “deconstruction doula,” someone who walks alongside individuals as they process their beliefs, ask hard questions, and rebuild their understanding of faith on their own terms.

They also discuss the real-world cost of deconstruction, including shunning, loss of community, and long-term emotional impact on individuals and families. This episode provides a grounded, firsthand look at how religious systems can both shape and distort faith—and what it takes to reclaim it.

Deconstruction Doulas

The Rise of Christian Nationalism (CNN)

Guest Bio:

Margaret Rose Bronson is the founder of Deconstruction Doulas, a support network helping people navigate faith deconstruction and recover from religious trauma. A survivor of high-control church environments, she now works with individuals rebuilding their beliefs, identity, and sense of autonomy after leaving harmful systems.