The Bodies Behind the Bus is a podcast centering on the voices of spiritual abuse victims from within the Acts 29 network. We are the discarded few. We have been abused, gaslit, ignored, slandered, deceived, intentionally hurt, and betrayed. Our stories w
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The Bodies Behind The Bus podcast shines a much-needed light on the dark side of the church, exposing the wolves in sheep's clothing who manipulate and silence their victims. While there may be good pastors within the Acts 29 network and complementarian pastors, this show focuses on those who have abused their power. It is heartbreaking and angering to hear these stories, but it is important that they are told.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is its commitment to giving survivors a safe space to share their experiences without judgment or agenda. The hosts genuinely care for victims and seek to amplify their voices. They create a platform for these stories to be heard, helping survivors heal and bringing awareness to the issue of spiritual abuse within the church.
However, one potential downside of this podcast is that it may not offer a balanced perspective. While it is vital to shed light on abusive practices within the church, it is also important not to paint all pastors with a broad brush. There are undoubtedly many sincere and compassionate pastors who faithfully shepherd their congregations. It would be beneficial for the podcast to occasionally highlight these positive examples as well.
In conclusion, The Bodies Behind The Bus podcast serves an essential purpose in exposing spiritual abuse within the church. It provides validation and healing for survivors while raising awareness about this critical issue. Although it would benefit from presenting a more balanced perspective at times, overall, it offers a valuable platform for victims to use their voices and promotes much-needed change in the church community.
In this episode, Jay and Johnna debrief the 2025 Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting. They discuss why Johnna chose to attend alone, the deaths of two high-profile survivors—Jennifer Lyell and Duane Rollins—and the emotional and physical toll survivor advocacy has taken. They reflect on the SBC's failure to follow through on promised reforms, the lack of accountability, and the ongoing harm caused by the institution's refusal to meaningfully address abuse. The episode also explores the role of power, complicity, and silence within evangelical culture, as well as the broader implications for churches and Christian communities across the country.Support the show
This episode examines the legacy of the Indian Removal Act of 1830 and draws a clear line from that policy to other moments of systemic injustice in American history—slavery, Japanese internment, discriminatory policing, and modern ICE raids. Through historical analysis and personal reflection, Jay challenges the narrative of American exceptionalism, exposes the role of the white church in reinforcing inequality, and confronts the systems that sustain white supremacy.Support the show
Mollie Callahan, spiritual director and seminary student, joins to discuss the misuse of church discipline, its harmful impact, and how scripture has often been misapplied in these situations. She examines 1 Corinthians 5, Matthew 18, and stories like the woman caught in adultery, Zacchaeus, and the woman at the well to reframe church discipline through the lens of Jesus' compassion, agency, and pursuit of the hurting.Support the show
In this episode, Joyce shares her story of involvement in a PCA church in Florida and how her experience of marriage, faith, and community unfolded over more than a decade. She describes the early support her family received, her deep investment in church life, and how that shifted when she began raising concerns about her marriage. Joyce outlines the church's response, her efforts to seek counseling, the process of pursuing divorce, and the consequences that followed, including church discipline. This episode examines how systems designed for accountability can fail those in crisis and how theological frameworks can impact the choices survivors feel they're allowed to make. An update on Joyce's situation is shared at the end of the episode.Support the show
In this “At the Bus Stop” episode, Dr. Jared Stacy, a theologian and ethicist, joins Johnna and Jay to unpack the link between conspiracy theories, Christian nationalism, and the culture of abuse within white evangelical spaces. Drawing from his personal experience and academic research, Jared explores how storytelling shapes power, how conspiracy theories thrive in religious communities, and why many churches prioritize maintaining societal structures over faithful witness. The conversation also delves into the dehumanizing effects of disinformation, the role of the church in rural America, and what it means to follow Jesus in a moment of cultural and political disreality. Jared's upcoming book offers language and insight for those wrestling with these complex dynamics.Jared's Substack: (19) The Homeward Dispatches | Jared Stacy | SubstackMore from Jared: https://linktr.ee/jstacySupport the show
Be sure to listen to episode 79 “Alicia's Story” to hear about her experience with this same pastor. Alicia's Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alicias-story-columbus-oh/id1601586078?i=1000663185044Support the show
In this community conversation, the team from Bodies Behind the Bus responds to recent events involving The New Evangelicals and the release of a NetGrace investigation. They share their perspectives on accountability, integrity, and the responsibility of platforms in survivor spaces.Allegations against Tim Whitaker and The New Evangelicals show how hierarchy transfers to progressive ministries | BAPTIST NEWS GLOBALSupport the show
Buy the book here! Becoming the Pastor's Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman's Path to Ministry by Beth Allison Barr, Hardcover | Barnes & Noble®In this episode of The Bodies Behind the Bus Podcast, we welcome Beth Allison Barr, historian, professor, and author of The Making of Biblical Womanhood and her latest book, Becoming the Pastor's Wife. Beth shares her insights on the historical roots of patriarchy in the church, the erasure of women in ministry, and the complex role of pastor's wives in evangelical spaces. She unpacks the ways in which women have been silenced, how the Southern Baptist Convention's structures perpetuate inequality, and why understanding history is crucial to moving forward.Support the show
This episode of Bodies Behind the Bus features Margaret Bronson and Eric Isaac discussing the rise of Christian nationalism and its intersection with fundamentalist cult beliefs. Margaret shares insights from her experience in a high-control religious group, highlighting issues of female subjugation, the quiverfull movement, lack of education, and financial entrapment. Eric connects these experiences to broader patterns of spiritual abuse, coercion, and religious power structures. The conversation explores how extreme fundamentalist ideologies are becoming mainstream in America, their ties to white supremacy, and the political implications of these beliefs.Margaret's ig: https://www.instagram.com/margaretrosebronson?igsh=cW5nbHZ1ZnQ4dTU0Margaret's Website: https://www.deconstructiondoulas.com/Eric's thesis: https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/5151/Support the show
Subscribe to Jemar's Substack Here: Footnotes by Jemar Tisby | Jemar Tisby, PhD | SubstackBuy “The Spirit of Justice” https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-spirit-of-justice-stories-of-faith-race-and-resistance-jemar-tisby/20859536?ean=9780310144854“I Am the Spirit of Justice” for kids ages 4-7 https://bookshop.org/p/books/i-am-the-spirit-of-justice-jemar-tisby/21291875?ean=9780310145561“Stories of The Spirit of Justice” for kids ages 8-12+https://bookshop.org/p/books/stories-of-the-spirit-of-justice-jemar-tisby/21291877?ean=9780310145592Additional Books by Jemar: https://jemartisby.com/books/Support the show
Walker contact: walkerbbtb@gmail.comCrissie contact: inspiredifferences@gmail.comLink to Transcript from Concerned Congregant meeting (200 in attendance) - October 2021https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MUJ_ri2nuRP2vnAf6oU1iXIGljSVFHu3/view?usp=sharingCongregant Feedback Survey (leadership stated they didn't think there were any concerns following the October meeting, and then refused to start the GRACE survey (which was ready) in December 2021 so congregants did their own survey) https://drive.google.com/file/d/1P1Qx8_kx9AFLBwUdTHzLJ_CMlzni6bM8/view?usp=sharingNDA document -https://drive.google.com/file/d/11mn6mrHTZ4VVvEQAUHZnqwCgRd5IHlaS/view?usp=sharingFind more information, and future stories here - https://chapelhillbiblechurch.org/ Keep up with all things on X @CHBConfidential Support the show
Walker contact: walkerbbtb@gmail.comCrissie contact: inspiredifferences@gmail.comNDA document -https://drive.google.com/file/d/11mn6mrHTZ4VVvEQAUHZnqwCgRd5IHlaS/view?usp=sharingFind more information, and future stories here - https://chapelillbiblechurch.org/ Keep up with all things on X @CHBConfidential Support the show
Chapel Hill Bible Church: Pastor Eric McKiddie Is Gone and Pastor Jay Thomas Is Under Fire - thewartburgwatch.comChapel Hill Bible Church: A Petition Signed by 78 and the Use of NDAs to Keep Things on the Down Low. What's Going On With the Leaders? - thewartburgwatch.comProminent North Carolina Church Embroiled in Controversy Following Alleged Abuse & 3 Investigations - julieroys.comChapel Hill Bible Church leaders face allegations, investigations over abusive behavior - dailytarheel.comChapel Hill Bible Church was multiracial before January 6 - washingtonpost.comSupport the show
Support the podcast HERE, and thank you for daring to listen.We are 100% funded by donations. We committed early on never to monetize survivor stories, and your financial contribution allows us to continue this work. Please consider becoming a monthly donor and joining us in our mission to amplify the voices of those dedicated to transformation toward greater inclusivity, justice, and compassion. We are a recognized 501(c)(3), and all donations are tax-deductible.Support the show
Watch the video of this episode HERESupport the Podcast HEREIn this episode, the Bodies Behind the Bus board gathers to discuss the heavy realities of navigating faith, justice, and advocacy in a fractured America. They explore the impact of systemic religious abuse, the emboldening of harmful rhetoric, and the personal toll of continuing to fight for marginalized communities. The episode is a candid look at grief, exhaustion, and the fire that drives change, while also honoring the voices of survivors and the commitment to amplifying their stories.Listeners will hear reflections on what it means to live and work in integrity, how to support vulnerable communities, and the challenges of confronting systemic failures in both the church and society at large. This episode is a call to action, a space for lament, and a testament to resilience.Support the show
FOR OUR DAUGHTERS Official Film LinkSupport the show
Eric Isaac BioEric's ThesisSupport the show
Fire In The Whole Book LinkRobert Callahan's LinktreeSupport the show
Episode Resources:https://www.netgrace.org/resources/to-suffer-in-silenceMale Survivor Stories - DAVID PITTMANhttps://together-we-heal.orghttps://www.netgrace.org/independent-investigationsSupport the show
Wartburg Watch: https://thewartburgwatch.com/2024/07/19/an-sbc-and-9-marks-church-edgefield-nashville-appeared-to-allow-a-violent-convicted-pedophile-michael-brake-considerable-freedom-in-the-church-for-years-could-there-be-other-victims/Simon's blog: https://cheapgrace.substack.com/Dave Pittman NetGRACE video: https://youtu.be/26E4bRweK6E?feature=sharedSupport the show
Ep Resources:Mental Health/PsychologyParenting from the Inside Out by Dan Siegel and Mary HartzellOn Grief and Grieving by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David KesslerShe Deserves Better by Sheila Wray Gregoire, Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach, and Joanna SawatskyWorthy by Elyse Fitzpatrick and Eric Schumacher (this is the book I couldn't remember in the podcast!)The Body Keeps the Score by Bessell van der KolkRedeeming Power by Diane LangbergSet Boundaries, Find Peace and Drama Free by Nedra Glover Tawwab (These also have workbooks sold separately)Deconstruction/ReconstructionJesus and John Wayne by Kristen Kobez du MezThe Making of Biblical Womanhood by Beth Allison BarrThe Bible vs. Biblical Womanhood by Philip PayneUntwisting Scriptures series by Rebecca DavisGaslighted by God by Tiffany Yecke BrooksSupport the Show.
What is Clergy Sexual Abuse? (Video)clergysexualmisconduct.comContact Stephanie: s.nelsonbbtb@gmail.comSupport the Show.
Event w/ Emily Maynard RegistrationSupport the Show.
https://clergysexualmisconduct.comSupport the Show.
https://clergysexualmisconduct.comContact Stephanie: s.nelsonbbtb@gmail.comSupport the Show.
Alicia's Socials:Twitter / X - @thepersistentdrThreads - @thepersistentdrInstagram @thepersistentdrTikTok @achey90Support the Show.
Episode show notes / source materialRoberts Book - Fire in the Whole: Embracing Our Righteous Anger with White Christianity and Reclaiming Our WholenessPast Relevent Episodes:The Village Church is SBC, TooATBS “The Village Hired a Law Firm” w/ Robert CallahanATBS “Ask More Questions” w/ Jay & JohnnaATBS “MinistrySafe & Austin Stone” w/ Christi BraggStatement from bodies behind the busSupport the podcastSupport the Show.
Episode show notes / source materialPast Relevent Episodes:The Village Church is SBC, TooATBS “The Village Hired a Law Firm” w/ Robert CallahanATBS “Ask More Questions” w/ Jay & JohnnaATBS “MinistrySafe & Austin Stone” w/ Christi BraggStatement from bodies behind the busSupport the podcastSupport the Show.
The Wartburg Watch Post - I Was 12 Years Old and Wearing My Pink Pajamas When Robert Morris, Now of Gateway Church, Began to Molest Me. The Alleged Abuse Lasted for 4 1/2 Years.The Roys Report Post - EXCLUSIVE: Former Staffers Expose Bullying, Abuse of Rick Warren's Successor Andy WoodA World of Difference PodcastSupport the Show.
Dr. Peri's Website: www.peridotreed.comResources/BooksPatreonSupport the Show.
Dr. Peri's Website: www.peridotreed.comResources/BooksPatreonSupport the Show.
Resources/BooksPatreonSupport the Show.
Johnna and Jay provide an update on the future of Sacred Wilderness & Bodies Behind the Bus.Support the Show.
Baptistland: A Memoir of Abuse, Betrayal, and TransformationIn this episode of the Bodies Behind the Bus podcast, hosts Jay and Johnna introduce us to the incredible journey of Christa Brown, an author, advocate, survivor, and lawyer with a profound story to tell. Through her newly released book, Baptist Land: A Memoir of Abuse, Betrayal, and Transformation, Christa offers an unflinchingly honest exploration of her life's ordeals and the path to recovery and empowerment. This episode delves deep into the themes of resilience in the face of betrayal, the complexities of family dynamics, and the courage it takes to break free from authoritative and abusive structures. Christa's narrative is a testament to the power of speaking out and finding one's voice amid adversity. Join us as we journey with Christa through her compelling story, the challenges and revelations of writing her memoir, and her ongoing advocacy for survivors everywhere.Resources/BooksPatreonSupport the Show.
Do you know something about the Elizabeth Mackintosh case? If so, please reach out no matter how small it seems. https://www.truebelieverpodcast.comListen on AppleListen on SpotifySupport the show
https://emilymaynardtherapy.comResources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
https://emilymaynardtherapy.comResources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
New Lawsuit filed against SBCRead Court Docs HereAmicus Brief RulingResources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
Louder Than SilenceMindwell Therapy Austin Stone statement Ministrysafe websiteWade Mullen Twitter thread on MinistrySafeResources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
Resources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
Tweets discussed in episode:President of the SBC's statement on the Amicus Brief: SBC EC response to amicus brief:Amicus brief: Articles referenced or read in preparation of this episode:https://www.texastribune.org/2023/03/27/houston-jared-woodfill-gop-paul-pressler-southern-baptist/ https://baptistnews.com/article/pressler-patterson-and-trump-dancing-with-demagogues/https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/More-men-accuse-former-Texas-judge-Baptist-12831892.php https://www.texastribune.org/2023/12/29/southern-baptist-convention-sexual-abuse-lawsuit-settlement/https://www.texastribune.org/2024/01/23/jared-woodfill-paul-pressler-southern-baptist-state-legislature/https://www.chron.com/news/investigations/article/Investigation-reveals-700-victims-of-Southern-13591612.php Guidepost Report: Support the show
X / @joyklaprade Threads / @joy_lapradeResources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
X / @joyklaprade Threads / @joy_lapradeResources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
Julie Roys Articles on Fellowship MonroviaWatch Fellowship Monrovia town hallLetter of concerns written by staff and key leadersSupport the show
Shasta / InstaResources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
Marissa Burt on TwitterMarissa on Instagram Marissa's website Kelsey Kramer McGinnis on Twitter Kelsey Kramer McGinnis on InstagramKelsey's websiteKelsey's recent CT article: "Christian Moms Feel More Pressure to Get It Right" Support the show
Laila's recommended links and resources:Demand A Ceasefire In Gaza! | How to take actionThe danger of a single-story | Ted TalkHow Israel Was Created | VideoAn Open Letter from Palestinian Christians to Western Church Leaders and TheologiansThese are the things I've been praying and inviting others to pray with me.Praying for a miraculous de-escalation. A peaceful resolution. For the sanctity of human life to be prioritized, for value to be seen in all life. For the liberation of an oppressed people group (the Palestinians).For leaders to rise up who prioritize peace over power, peace over political schemes, and peace over religious agendas.Support the show
Daniella's WebsiteBuy her book! Uncultured: A MemoirDaniella's socials:TikTokInstaTwitterResources/BooksPatreonSupport the show
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