Podcast Summary: Flipping Tables – "The Ladies are Leaving- with Irene's Entropy"
Introduction
In this compelling episode of Flipping Tables, host Monte Mader engages in an in-depth conversation with Irene from Irene's Entropy. Released on July 2, 2025, this episode delves into the intricate journey of deconstructing religion, specifically Mormonism, and the transformative power of self-discovery and creativity. Monte and Irene share their personal narratives, exploring themes of fundamentalist upbringing, mission experiences, artistic rebirth, and the creation of a purposeful life beyond religious confines.
Social Media and Deconstruction
The episode opens with Monte highlighting the pivotal role social media played in Irene's journey out of religious fundamentalism. Monte recounts discovering Irene through a Rage Against the Machine cover video on social media, leading to a friendship grounded in shared experiences of leaving fundamentalist backgrounds.
“Irene's Entropy is on with us today on Flipping Tables.” – [00:00]
Irene's Upbringing in Mormonism
Irene shares her background growing up in a deeply conservative Mormon family, where church life dominated her childhood. She describes her parents' generational trauma and lack of emotional intelligence, which led to a dysfunctional home environment masked by the appearance of a "perfect Mormon family."
“My childhood was dysfunctional in the way that I was one of five siblings, lots going on, and the church was our life.” – [02:13]
She discusses the extensive lore of Mormonism, including studies at Brigham Young University centered around Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, which left little room for questioning or exploring other worldviews.
“There's so much canon and that you truly can get lost in it your whole life studying and never question anything outside of that.” – [03:53]
Mission Experience and Its Impact
Irene recounts her mission to Tegucigalpa, Honduras, describing it as an isolating and intense experience akin to boot camp. The mission demanded strict adherence to church teachings, focus on numbers for baptisms, and emotional suppression. Irene details the physical and emotional toll it took on her, including exposure to violence and personal danger.
“By the time I finished my mission, I was just a ghost of who I was.” – [16:00]
She reflects on moments of vulnerability, such as crying on the roof and forming a meaningful friendship with a gay man, which began to challenge her rigid beliefs.
“I started seeing how much of it is about numbers because every night you're called, how many people did you talk to today?” – [22:47]
Meeting the Ecologist and Turning Point
A significant turning point in Irene's deconstruction journey was meeting her now-husband, referred to as "the ecologist." Their conversations about philosophy and logical reasoning sparked Irene's critical questioning of her faith, ultimately leading her to leave the church. She credits her husband's support as instrumental in her decision to abandon her fundamentalist beliefs.
“He was like, how do you believe this insanity? How does deconstruction happen for you?” – [30:30]
Creative Rebirth: Becoming Irene
After leaving the church, Irene underwent a profound transformation, marked by her decision to adopt the name "Irene." This name change symbolized her break from her previous identity tied to Mormonism and her emergence as an empowered individual. Irene describes how she began writing music as a form of healing and self-expression, creating the persona of Irene’s Entropy to channel her experiences and insights.
“I became Irene, and it's Irene's entropy, because entropy is the second law of thermodynamics that basically is this law that chaos and disorder will expand through time.” – [42:38]
Launching Irene's Entropy and Door Walker Universe
Irene shares her entrepreneurial venture of starting a coffee company, Door Walker Co., which embodies the themes of transformation and self-discovery central to her brand. She introduces the "Door Walker Challenge," encouraging individuals to embrace change and personal growth.
“Door walkers are what I have started calling my followers.” – [40:54]
Irene discusses upcoming projects, including music videos that explore her journey and collaborations that further develop the Door Walker universe. She envisions these projects as interactive experiences that inspire others to walk through their own "red doors" of change.
“You're surrounded by people who align with your vision and what you truly believe in the core of your being.” – [81:11]
Future Projects and Vision
The conversation shifts to future endeavors, with Irene outlining plans to expand her coffee business, produce a series of music videos, and create immersive experiences like speakeasy-style shows. She emphasizes the importance of owning her creative work and building a supportive community of "Door Walkers."
“The coffee company will launch probably next month. The music video series will keep going and then I'll start talking about the importance of the Door Walker universe.” – [65:56]
Monte and Irene also discuss potential collaborations, including a project titled "What If God is a Woman," which explores diverse representations of deity through music and art.
Insights and Conclusions
Throughout the episode, both Monte and Irene emphasize the significance of choosing oneself and the transformative power of embracing change. They advocate for creating personal meaning and purpose beyond rigid doctrinal beliefs, highlighting how art and intentionality can heal and shape culture.
“It is never a mistake to choose yourself. It's the best decision that you could possibly make.” – [81:17]
Irene reinforces the message that personal growth and self-discovery are ongoing processes, encouraging listeners to relentlessly pursue their true selves and support others in their journeys.
“Relentlessly pursue yourself.” – [82:24]
Notable Quotes
- “I am Irene. And it's Irene's entropy.” – [42:42]
- “Let them walk through that door themselves.” – [40:54]
- “Curiosity is central to mine.” – [69:46]
Conclusion
"The Ladies are Leaving- with Irene's Entropy" offers a profound exploration of leaving behind fundamentalist beliefs, the challenges of deconstructing religion, and the empowering journey towards self-identity and creative expression. Monte Mader and Irene's candid dialogue provides valuable insights and inspiration for listeners navigating similar paths of personal transformation and seeking to build a life aligned with their true selves.
Where to Find Irene's Entropy
Listeners interested in following Irene’s journey or supporting her projects can visit Irene's Entropy Website and DoorWalkerCo.com. Irene is actively engaged in performing at private shows, retreats, and house concerts, and is building her brand through both music and entrepreneurial ventures.
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