Podcasts about spiritual abuse

In this episode, Johnna & Jay introduce a new four-part series investigating The Austin Stone Church in Austin, Texas. Joined by Board member Emily, they discuss the church's influential role in evangelical culture, its connections to Acts 29 and the SBC, and a troubling pattern of abuse, cover-ups, and systemic harm within its leadership and programs. The episode highlights the church's public image versus its internal realities, and previews the survivor stories that will follow in the coming weeks.Support the show

Join Christa for a crucial conversation with Rachel Clinton Chen, MDiv and faculty at The Allender Center, about spiritual abuse and its unique impact on marriages. Rachel brings both professional expertise and Type 2 heart-centered wisdom to this difficult but necessary topic. Discover how spiritual abuse differs from general church hurt, the specific challenges it creates for couples when one spouse's faith is shaken while the other's remains intact, and how partners can support each other's healing without minimizing their experience. Rachel shares insights on rebuilding trust in your own perceptions, navigating intimacy after spiritual trauma, and finding hope for post-traumatic growth. Whether you've experienced spiritual abuse yourself, are supporting someone who has, or want to better understand this critical issue, this conversation offers validation, practical guidance, and hope for the healing journey. Rachel's marriage to Reverend Michael (a beautiful 2-9 pairing) provides unique perspective on how couples can walk through spiritual trauma together while protecting their relationship during vulnerable seasons. Rachel has graciously offered our listeners 20% off The Allender Center's Spiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course here with code enneagrammarriage20 through December 2025. https://theallendercenter.org/offerings/online-courses/spiritual-abuse-and-healing/ Check out The Allender Center Podcast here, https://theallendercenter.org/category/podcast/ Find other courses and connections at The Allender Center at The Seattle School here: https://theallendercenter.org/ Find Rachel Clinton-Chen on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/rachaelclintonchen/?hl=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

What do you do when the very place that was supposed to nourish your soul becomes a source of deep harm? In this deeply moving and necessary conversation, therapist, pastor, and trauma specialist Rachael Clinton Chen joins Dr. Alison Cook to talk about the pain of spiritual abuse—and what it looks like to begin healing from it. Whether you've experienced overt harm in a religious setting or carry subtle wounds from spiritual messaging that shaped your identity in unhealthy ways, this episode offers a gentle, powerful invitation toward healing, dignity, and reclaiming your voice. Rachael shares: Her own story of healing from spiritual abuseWhy spiritual pain is often so hard to name How systems of control in churches and families silence women and survivors The importance of embodiment and “coming home to yourself” in healing A theological lens for honoring your anger, grief, and truth If you've ever questioned your worth because of how faith was used against you—or wondered how to hold onto your spirituality while confronting the harm—you're not alone. This episode is full of insight, validation, and hope for your journey.

“Stop sleeping with the pastor!” Vashti Ennis, after a 10-year relationship with Pastor Brian Carn, is calling him out on Facebook for infidelity, betrayal, and spiritual gaslighting. She's not just coming for the man—she's questioning the entire church culture and its habit of “praising publicly, bleeding quietly.” Screenshots. Love notes. Screens everywhere! Church leaders may have options, but are congregants blinded by spiritual authority? This episode dives into messy romance, power, and accountability in sacred spaces.Need relationship advice? Text Dr. Gabe. Text bandwidth to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Bandwidth.Gabriel Powell MerchUse the code BAND10 for 10% off.WebsiteSupport the Bandwidth PodcastCash App $bandwidthpodcastConnect with Bandwidth Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter Connect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | WebsiteIf you are interested in advertising on this podcast or having Dr. Gabe as a guest on your Podcast, Radio Show, or TV Show, reach out to info@gabrielpowell.co

In this episode of The Flying Free Podcast, we're talking about a book that forever changed my understanding of evil—M. Scott Peck's People of the Lie. This isn't about cartoon villains or obvious monsters. I'm talking about the kind of evil that sits in church pews, leads Bible studies, and goes home to emotionally destroy their families while maintaining a pristine public image.Have you ever felt crazy for questioning someone's "godly" behavior when it leaves you feeling diminished and confused? You're not alone, and you're not imagining things. In this episode, I break down the subtle patterns of evil that hide behind masks of righteousness, especially in Christian contexts.In this powerful episode, you'll discover:• Why the most dangerous form of evil isn't loud or obvious, but subtle, polite, and often dressed in religious language and "concern" for your spiritual wellbeing• How to recognize scapegoating—the psychological process where someone transfers their shame onto you, making you carry the emotional burden for the entire relationship• The chilling reality of how evil people use virtue and spiritual leadership as masks to hide their true nature, and why religious communities often protect the abuser rather than the abused• Practical ways to trust your own perceptions again after years of having your reality denied and twistedIf you've ever been told you're overreacting, too sensitive, or not spiritual enough when trying to address harmful behavior, this episode will validate your experience and give you the language to understand what you've been through.The journey toward freedom begins with recognizing the lies for what they are. Join me as we unpack this transformative book and discover how naming evil is the first step toward reclaiming your life and your truth.Read the show notes and/or ask Natalie a question here Related Resources: Grab your copy of M. Scott Peck's People of the LieWant to check out some other books I recommend? I have a whole laundry list. 

Michael Miller of Remnant Radio shares a bit about his life and how he processes when to speak out about spiritual abuse and other challenges facing the Church. We touch on Alan Scott, Dr. Michael Brown, and Upper Room and much more! You can find out more about Michael here: https://www.thomasministries.org  ❇️ Recommended John Wimber Books ❇️ "Power Healing," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2HiA3YV) "Power Evangelism,' by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2TP6Nyd) "Power Points," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/31NwqSC) "Everyone Gets to Play," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2Z4PJdf) "The Way In is the Way On," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2ZdiTCg) ❇️ Recommended Books ABOUT John Wimber ❇️ "John Wimber: The Way it Was," by Carol Wimber (https://amzn.to/2HiUFQJ) "Never Trust a Leader Without a Limp: The Wit and Wisdom of John Wimber," by Glenn Schroder (https://amzn.to/3PtHvSM) "John Wimber: His Life and Ministry," by Connie Dawson (https://amzn.to/3FSpYAI) "Worshiping with the Anaheim Vineyard: The Emergence of Contemporary Worship," by Andy Park, Lester Ruth, & Cindy Rethmeier (https://amzn.to/31TDm0w) "Toronto in Perspective: Papers on the New Charismatic Wave of the 1990s," edited by David Hilborn (https://amzn.to/2L3nIsP) "John Wimber: His Influence & Legacy," edited by David Pytches (https://amzn.to/2ZfgbfC) || FOLLOW US || Website: https://sacramentalcharismatic.substack.com Luke IG: https://instagram.com/lukegeraty Luke Twitter: https://twitter.com/lukegeraty Wes IG: https://www.instagram.com/wesmac5 Wes Twitter: https://twitter.com/wesmac5 SUPPORT US BY SUBSCRIBING AND CONSIDERING BECOMING A PAID SUBSCRIBER!

Sara Sherbill's powerful memoir "There Was Night and There Was Morning" takes its title from the book of Genesis, establishing a profound metaphor for her life's journey from darkness to light. As the daughter of a respected rabbi who terrorized his family behind closed doors, Sarah lived a "split-screen reality" - presenting the perfect religious family image to the community while enduring horrific abuse at home.The weight of this duality crushed Sara for decades. As the eldest of five children, she felt responsible for maintaining the facade of a wholesome religious lifestyle while privately suffering at the hands of her father. This burden of secrecy and performance dominated her childhood until she finally reached a breaking point in high school when concerns for her mother's safety led her to alert authorities.What makes Sara's story particularly compelling is her unflinching examination of the complex relationship between religion and abuse. Her father specifically sought the rabbinate hoping it would "keep him in check," suggesting he possessed some awareness of his darker impulses. This revelation illuminates how religious structures can simultaneously provide cover for abusers while offering victims a framework for understanding their experiences. Sarah doesn't condemn religion itself but shows how it can be weaponized by those seeking control.The redemption in Sara's story comes not through forgiveness or reconciliation with her abuser, but through finding her voice. After discovering her father's abuse had expanded beyond family to include young women in his Florida congregation, she began publishing essays about her experiences, eventually culminating in this memoir. Through writing, Sarah transformed shame into strength and silence into power, freeing herself from carrying the burden of her father's actions with the profound realization: "I was not the man who did this... I'm just his daughter."Ready to break your own silence? Sara's journey from trauma to redemption shows how naming our pain can be the first step toward healing. 

In this deeply personal survivor story, Naomi Wright sits down with Blake, who opens up about his journey through spiritual abuse, cult dynamics, and finding freedom after leaving a high-control religious group. From his upbringing in the Worldwide Church of God to a more radical offshoot with charismatic manipulation, Blake shares how faith, fear, loyalty, and trauma shaped his experience—and how he found the courage to walk away and rebuild.This conversation is raw, insightful, and healing for anyone who has wrestled with leaving a toxic religious environment.

Toxic religious environments are more widespread, more covert, and more dangerous than many people realize. But what can Christians do to safeguard themselves and loved ones from being victimized by their own churches and potential cults?To confront this growing crisis, Frank welcomes Anna Kitko, Chapter Director of Ratio Christi at the University of Tennessee–Knoxville, beEmboldened mentor, and an expert in coercive control and spiritual trauma. With deep insight into how abuse happens and how healing begins, Anna helps uncover the hidden patterns behind spiritual manipulation—and what to do about it. Tune in as she and Frank answer questions like:What are the warning signs of a cult or spiritually abusive church?What is the New Apostolic Reformation and why are these churches especially concerning?What are the different types of cults and what's the largest cult group in the U.S. today?What manipulation tactics do spiritual abusers use?Why are even sincere Christians vulnerable to deception?What is pseudodoxy—and how does it disguise itself as truth?How can spiritual abuse harm your body physically, and not just your soul?How do you escape spiritual abuse and how can we support others who need help?Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that could protect you or someone you love, and if help is needed, please contact Anna using the resources listed below.Full-Circle Counseling & Wellness of East TN - https://www.fullcirclecounselingtn.com/beEmboldened Ministries (virtual counseling) - https://www.beemboldened.com/Ratio Christi at the Univ. of TN-Knoxville - https://bit.ly/3SZv7wxUnderstanding Spiritual Abuse: What It Is and How to Respond - https://a.co/d/aRfouxKBully Pulpit by Michael Krueger - https://a.co/d/85I9C7PSons of Patriarchy - https://www.sonsofpatriarchy.com/

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

What do you do when everything you were raised to believe starts to crack?Holly, known as Hope with Holly on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, has built a following of over 500,000 by saying the things most people are too scared to admit. She talks about religious trauma, surviving loss, parenting a transgender child, dating in midlife, and what it means to find your voice when it feels like everything's falling apart.In this episode, Holly shares her raw, funny, heartbreaking story of leaving Christian fundamentalism. We talk about:Growing up Pentecostal and what “church” really looked likeMarrying under prophetic pressure (yes, really)Losing her daughter Monroe and the unraveling that followedBeing labeled a heretic for asking basic questionsRebuilding identity after religious and social deathParenting a transgender son in the Deep SouthBecoming a truth-teller with a platform—and a whole lot of hatersRedefining spirituality, purpose, and freedom on her own termsThis conversation is for anyone who's ever felt betrayed by their belief system or pressured to stay quiet to “belong.” Holly proves you're allowed to change—and you're still worthy of connection even if you no longer check the boxes.

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

Helping people out of dark places, to hide or to address the pandemic of spiritual abuse Susan Puzio with Mary Lindow.

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

What are Adverse Religious Experiences (AREs) and spiritual abuse? Aren't they the same thing as religious trauma? Join Andrew and Laura on this week's episode to discuss AREs, spiritual abuse, dynamics of power and control, how this relates to fundamentalism and how all of this…isn't religious trauma? You heard us correctly!  Andrew and Laura discuss all of this AND how these things can result in religious trauma on this episode of Sunday School Dropouts!This podcast is brought to you by the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery: an online trauma coaching company whose practitioners are trauma informed and trauma trained to work with individuals, couples and families who have experienced high control religion, cults, and religious trauma. For more information on the support that CTRR provides, for resources–including courses, workshops, and more–head to traumaresolutionandrecovery.com or follow us on Instagram: @traumaresolutionandrecovery The views and opinions expressed by Sunday School Dropouts are those of the hosts and not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery. Any of the content provided by our guests, sponsors, authors, or bloggers are their own ideas and opinions.The Sunday School Dropouts podcast is not anti-religion but it is anti -harm, -power and control, -oppression and, -abuse and will speak to the harmful practices and messaging of fundamentalist groups. Follow Andrew on Instagram and TikTok @deconstruct_everything Follow Laura on Instagram and TikTok @drlauraeanderson or on her website: www.drlauraeanderson.com Hosts: Laura Anderson and Andrew KerbsMusic by Benjamin Faye Music @heytherebenji Editing and Production by Kevin Crowe

On the podcast this week, Adam Copenhaver shares with us about his early ministry caring for an older congregation, and his education and research on Colossians. He also tells us about his current pastoral context leading a church in a small, migrant farm town which had previously been led by an abusive pastor. He previews the breakout topic he will lead at the 2025 CPT Conference, Good Shepherds: Pastoral Identity and the Future of the Church. How can our churches become both helpful and welcoming to those who are suffering abuse or oppression? How can pastors identify and eliminate harmful tendencies in themselves that could lead to abuse later? 

Spiritual Abuse: God Told Me To Manipulate You

One of the worst things you could be in a cult is selfish. Pursue a career? Selfish. Go to college? Selfish. Skip a meeting because you're too exhausted to feign interest? Selfish. When you're handed the grandiose mission of saving the human race from Armageddon, even a tiny spark of personal joy starts to feel like a moral failure. But now you're out. You survived. And for the first time, you can do anything you want. The only problem? You've never been allowed to want anything for yourself. It feels weird. It feels wrong. You feel guilty. (Which, of course, is by design.) In this episode, we're going to deconstruct and recalibrate the idea of "selfish"—and explore why taking care of your own needs isn't just okay… it's essential. For your healing, and for the people you love. We'll cover: How high-control religion weaponizes "selflessness" to keep you obedient Why everything we do—including “selfless” acts—is actually motivated by self-interest (and that's not a bad thing) The beautiful irony: how prioritizing your joy makes you more generous, more grounded, and more whole This is your permission slip to want things, try things, and be a little gloriously selfish—for your own sanity, healing, and yes, the joy of eventually giving back from a full cup. DrRyanLee.com/beyondbelief

Today we will talk about Todd White signing onto the Daystar network. Also, more evidence of spiritual abuse within the Harvest Church Kelowna with Howard Olsen. Daystar Petition: https://tinyurl.com/ycxwe4ye Sign up for my newsletter here: Laura-Lynn Newsletter Jonathan & Suzy Lamb GiveSendGo: https://www.givesendgo.com/GEBG9 Richardson Nutritional Center: https://tinyurl.com/mudzzy3n Zstack Protocol: https://zstacklife.com/?ref=LAURALYNN Antibiotics at: Sales@larxmedical.com Promo code: LLTT Need some Ivermectin or Hydroxychloroquine? Fast shipping with guaranteed delivery in Canada and the US. Contact Mia for more information. SozoHealth@proton.me ☆ We no longer can trust our mainstream media, which is why independent journalists such as myself are the new way to receive accurate information about our world. Thank you for supporting us – your generosity and kindness to help us keep information like this coming! ☆ ~ L I N K S ~ ➞ DONATE AT: https://www.lauralynn.tv/ or lauralynnlive@protonmail.com ➞ TWITTER: @LauraLynnTT ➞ FACEBOOK: Laura-Lynn Tyler Thompson ➞ RUMBLE: https://rumble.com/c/LauraLynnTylerThompson ➞ BITCHUTE: https://www.bitchute.com/channel/BodlXs2IF22h/ ➞ YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/LauraLynnTyler ➞ BRIGHTEON: https://www.brighteon.com/channels/lauralynntv ➞ DLIVE: https://dlive.tv/Laura-Lynn ➞ ODYSEE: https://odysee.com/@LauraLynnTT:9 ➞ GETTR: https://www.gettr.com/user/lauralynn

At just 18 months old, Ben Shenton was handed over to a woman who claimed she was the reincarnation of Jesus Christ. That woman was Anne Hamilton-Byrne, the leader of a secretive doomsday cult called The Family. For 14 years, Ben lived cut off from the outside world—beaten, starved, drugged, and taught to stay “unseen, unheard, unknown.” The cult twisted Christianity into a tool of fear and control. Ben was finally rescued at age 15 during a police raid. Today, he’s an advocate for survivors and a pastor who still follows the teachings of Jesus Christ, just not the version the cult tried to force on him. You can find Ben’s website, Rescue the Family, here, and his book Life Behind the Wire here. CREDITS Guest: Ben Shenton Host: Claire Murphy Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Producer: Jacob Round GET IN TOUCH Want us to cover a case on the podcast? Email us at truecrime@mamamia.com.au or send us a voice note. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show, then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. You can also leave a comment for us on Spotify. If any of the contents in this episode have caused distress, know that there is help available via Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Troy and Brian engage with Sarah Bacaller, editor of the book, 'Apostate: Stories of Deconversion'. They explore Sarah's background in fundamentalism, her academic pursuits in philosophy, and her reflections on the ethical implications of church authority. The discussion delves into personal narratives of deconversion, the impact of evangelical theology on mental health, and the importance of critical thinking in faith contexts. Sarah shares her complex relationship with faith, shaped by her upbringing in a minister's family and the trauma associated with it. She reflects on her journey through academia, transitioning to a secular environment, and the motivations behind her book 'Apostate,' which collects diverse stories of deconversion. LinksSarah Bacaller's websiteApostate: Stories of Deconversion - Apocryphile Press ---We're now on video on YouTube here.Want more? Check out our exclusive Patreon episodes here.Our blog is here.Join the conversation and connect with others here.The transcript of this episode is here.All our other links are here. Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help.

From time to time we all get sucked into the sunken place of depression, and some of us sink deeper than others. Until recent year, I'd been in and out of the clinical depression hole most of my life. Today, I walk you through the fool proof blueprint I mapped out myself to climb out of that hole every single time, one I have walked many clients through successfully. If you're struggle-bussing, this blueprint will get you out of the hole, and if you're not, it'll keep you out

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael welcomes Tim St. John, the counseling pastor at Lighthouse Community Church in Torrance, California. Podcasting from the Made to Minister Conference 2025, they discuss the prevalent issue of church leadership failures and the deep wounds they leave. Tim shares insights into his work in a church with a robust biblical counseling ministry and offers gospel-centered strategies for addressing church hurt and spiritual abuse. Highlighting the importance of sharing one's story, understanding the severity of the sin committed, and relying on Christ as the ultimate shepherd, the discussion provides listeners with practical advice and hope.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:53 Guest Introduction: Timothy St. John01:38 Tim's Ministry and Counseling Approach04:07 Challenges in Church Leadership and Counseling06:22 Addressing Church Hurt and Spiritual Abuse08:16 Gospel-Centered Strategies for Healing13:31 Navigating Toxic Church Environments23:11 Concluding Thoughts and EncouragementWanting TrainingTruth Renewed Ministries - Certification Training Episode MentionsLighthouse Community Church 

There's a moment, often quietly, when you realize life didn't turn out the way you thought it would. The dreams you chased, the milestones you reached—they didn't deliver the satisfaction you imagined. And somewhere along the way, loneliness crept in, success started to feel hollow, and the constant pressure to optimize every part of your life became a crushing weight. This week on Win Today, Ian Simkins joins us to talk about the uncomfortable truths no one tells you about midlife. In this conversation, we'll unpack: Why midlife often exposes the false gods we've been serving The unique, often hidden loneliness of your 40s—and how to navigate it How spiritual abuse leaves scars that don't just go away with time Why efficiency, while celebrated, makes a terrible master The freedom that comes when you stop demanding success from God   Midlife isn't a crisis. It's an invitation. An invitation to reevaluate what you've been chasing, to heal what's still wounded, and to walk with God in a deeper, quieter way. If you're feeling stuck, unseen, or frustrated by the gap between your expectations and your reality, this episode will speak directly to where you are. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. • • Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, host Andrea interviews Anna LeBaron, author and speaker, about her courageous journey of escaping the control and secrecy of her father's infamous polygamist cult. Anna shares the intense personal and spiritual challenges she endured, including abandonment, child labor, and sexual grooming.  She discusses her memoir, 'The Polygamist's Daughter,' and her participation in the Hulu docuseries 'Daughters of the Cult.' Anna recounts her ongoing healing journey facilitated by therapy and trauma-informed practices. She talks about the importance of confronting one's past, repairing relationships, and the complexities of religious trauma. Anna also reveals her current academic pursuits and her hopes to teach seminary, writing her dissertation on spiritual formation intersected with religious trauma. This episode dives deep into personal growth, resilience, and the transformative power of sharing one's story.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:19 Anna's Background and Early Struggles 01:51 Journey of Healing and Overcoming Trauma 03:17 Writing the Memoir and Family Dynamics 08:03 Therapy and Personal Growth 17:48 Physical and Educational Transitions 19:35 Future Aspirations and Spiritual Formation 31:18 Leaving the Cult and Finding Agency 38:22 Family Relationships and Public Storytelling 45:52 Introduction to the Docu-Series 47:25 Dispelling Myths About Ervel's Children 49:12 Psychological Impact of Cult Life 52:14 Personal Struggles and Mental Health 56:09 Overcoming Agoraphobia 01:06:34 Spiritual Abuse and Healing 01:16:02 Deconstruction and Faith 01:21:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Read the show notes here:   https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/353 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here:  www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

Taken from our discipleship series, this message is a reminder that even when church families hurt us it does not excuse from lliving outside the context of people. God's design has and will always be that his people live together in a local church context. 

More spiritual food to choke on... at the proper time

Young and impressionable, Susan was drawn to the creative and spiritual environment of a church called the International House of Prayer in Kansas City (IHOPKC). She was soon courted by leadership and then isolated her through "special mentoring," with claims that God revealed the IHOP leaders her unique spiritual destiny. The philosophy its pastor, Mike Bickle, and ultimately the New Apostolic Reformation made questioning leadership equivalent to questioning God himself. Unlike Bickle, John Wimber of The Vineyard Movement established accountability structures and rejected many NAR excesses. Susan finally begins to question the teachings. Part One of Two.Paul Martin is a former pastor who works as a human rights advocate. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in philosophy from UCLA and Talbot School of Theology at Biola University.The Wolves is for those interested in religion, Jesus, or the psychology around power abuse. It is also for survivors of trauma, including spiritual abuse. Covering current cases of abuse in the church today, The Wolves will highlight the sinister paradox of those who display sincerity, conviction, and knowledge and who can even claim to hear the very voice of God himself, YET at the very same time abuse they claim to love.For information, visit www.thewolvespodcast.comContact Paul Martin at paul@paulmartin.org

Today we're going to take the first of many stabs at the wonderfully awkward world of post-cult dating. Essentially, the challenge of learning things most people learned in high school at the age of 35.  Here's the thing, you can't skip the mess. The mess builds the muscles. But we've put together some of the most common lessons learned for all you late bloomers that will hopefully make the leveling up process just a little bit easier.  In this episode, we'll be starting, as usual, with the mess left to us by the cult, then moving on to the shame of feeling inexperienced, the most common pitfalls we'll likely fall into, and why it might be a good idea to fall into them anyway

Proper bullshit at the proper time

A playful breakdown of the narcissistic deflection cascade

April Worthington is a teacher, mother of five, minister, and author of The Debriefing Workbook: Hope and Healing after Spiritual Abuse. In this conversation, April shares her experience involving a retreat led by Lundy Bancroft, author of Why Does He Do That?, a book many of us have clung to in our darkest moments. April's story isn't just one of personal harm, it's a call to action.  As a survivor of both spiritual abuse and high-conflict divorce, April recounts how her initial fan-girl admiration of Bancroft shifted into something far more troubling after an encounter that left her reeling. She shares what unfolded during and after that retreat, the red flags she noticed, and the courage it took to speak out despite the risks. I'm holding space for April as she brings forward not only her own experience, but those of others who have come to her with eerily similar stories. Her insight challenges us to re-examine what it means to trust "experts," and the danger in handing over our vulnerability to uncredentialed individuals cloaked in guru status.  Here's what else we get into, in this episode: The red flags that emerged during and after the retreat (6:03) The emotional fallout of being targeted by someone seen as a “healing” authority (26:24) How April is building a support network for other survivors (28:35) Why separating the author from their work is no longer an option (36:22) Learn more about April Worthington: April Worthington is a teacher, mother of five, minister, and author of The Debriefing Workbook: Hope and Healing after Spiritual Abuse. Resources & Links: Thank you to today's podcast sponsor: Wild Pastures Unbreakable – the Divorce Recovery Retreat, Sedona, AZ in April 2025Submit your questions here for possible inclusion in future Q&A podcast episodes Focused Strategy Sessions with Kate  Phoenix Rising: A Divorce Empowerment CollectiveApril on FacebookApril's YouTube video: A Warning to Women- RUN GIRL! Lundy Bancroft is not your friend! A Cry for Justice: Lundy Bancroft is a Predator ====== DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY, COACH, OR THERAPIST IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM. Episode link: https://kateanthony.com/podcast/episode-319-when-the-healer-harms-speaking-out-against-lundy-bancroft/

Today is part 2 of the conversation with Rachel Clinton Chen about healing from spiritual abuse. Rachel discusses ways our cultural values have influenced leadership in churches, often valuing charisma over genuine pastoral care, which sometimes leads to spiritual abuse. We also discuss what to do in the case of people unintentionally contributing to spiritual abuse - sometimes due to their own unresolved trauma. Love and Humility have to be a part of the conversation! Finally we talk about the new online course available through the Allender Center. See the links below for significant resources available for you. RESOURCES:Find out more about the Allender Center at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology with a link to their podcast  HERESpiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course -  This six-lesson course, complete with reflective practices and deep dive panel discussions, helps you engage your body, mind, and spirit as you unpack the harm caused by spiritual abuse.Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing - Our mission at The Allender Center is rooted in the belief that our stories are best understood and healed when we share them with others. We're honored to introduce the new Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing—an immersive experience designed to guide you through the complex process of healing from religious trauma and spiritual harm and reclaiming your faith. This is a three day virtual workshop held May 16-18, including large group teaching and small group story work with a seasoned facilitator. Free Checklist: How to identify the signs of spiritual abuseContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!

Prior to my work with ex-JWs, I would generally encounter clients with parents on the narcissistic spectrum maybe around 20% of the time. Once I started working with ex-JWs, that number went up to about 80%. This is no cute coincidence. There's a pattern here, and we spend this entire episode exploring that pattern in more detail, not only in how it presents in those on this spectrum, but also in the way the same characteristics can be seen in the organization itself, as a narcissistic entity.

Have you ever been hurt by the church? You're not alone. A discussion on Church Hurt has been highly requested recently - so I am starting at the beginning with a replay of a Season 3 interview with Pastor Tim Woodcock In this honest episode, we talk about spiritual abuse, religious manipulation, and what happens when the church doesn't reflect the heart of Jesus. We unpack the pain of church hurt, the impact it has on our identity and faith, and how to begin healing without walking away from God.  If you've ever wrestled with authority in the church, questioned your place in the body, or felt abandoned by spiritual leaders, this conversation will remind you that your pain is valid — and it's not the gospel. Jesus is still safe. Did you know that Carla is a Christian Mental Health coach? See if working with her is what you need in your current season.  Book a discovery call today! GET YOUR FREE RENEWING YOUR MIND WORKBOOK HERE Connect With Carla: Book a Discovery call with me https://calendly.com/cmsarges/discoverycall  Come hangout on IG with me @carla.arges Check out my blog and more at www.carlaarges.com   Resources: 5 Steps to Building Resiliency Rahab Bible Study Guide 5 Tips for Overcoming a Negative Body Image Who You Say I Am  

Dave Johnson and Pat Kahnke discuss Chapter 4 of Matthew Taylor's outstanding book "The Violent Take it by Force: The Christian Movement that's threatening our democracy." Pat Kahnke's books are available on Amazon: "A Christian Case Against Donald Trump" (2024): https://a.co/d/iVSTqny "MAGA Seduction: Resisting the Debasement of the Christian Conscience" (2020): https://a.co/d/1KNX3uQ Dave Johnson's books are also available on Amazon, including "The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse": https://a.co/d/d17eDNy  

Today we are talking about the sticky subject of spiritual abuse in the church. To lead us on the journey is Rachael Clinton Chen. Rachael is devoted to addressing the harm of abuse – especially spiritual abuse – at the intersection of trauma, healing, embodiment and spiritual formation. She leads the Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing and recently developed the Allender Center's Spiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course, inviting survivors of spiritual abuse to journey together towards healing and reclamation.RESOURCES:Find out more about the Allender Center at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology with a link to their podcast  HERESpiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course -  This six-lesson course, complete with reflective practices and deep dive panel discussions, helps you engage your body, mind, and spirit as you unpack the harm caused by spiritual abuse.Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing - Our mission at The Allender Center is rooted in the belief that our stories are best understood and healed when we share them with others. We're honored to introduce the new Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing—an immersive experience designed to guide you through the complex process of healing from religious trauma and spiritual harm and reclaiming your faith. This is a three day virtual workshop held May 16-18, including large group teaching and small group story work with a seasoned facilitator. Free Checklist: How to identify the signs of spiritual abuseContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!

In Part 2 of our explosive series, a former Mormon missionary blows the whistle on the business strategies employed by mission presidents to boost convert baptisms. This episode uncovers the corporate-style tactics used within the LDS Church, revealing how mission presidents prioritize numbers over genuine spiritual growth. Through insider accounts, expert analysis, and a deep dive into the intersection of religion and business, we expose the manipulative practices driving the church's growth agenda.Business Models in Missions: Learn how mission presidents use sales techniques, quotas, and performance metrics to pressure missionaries into achieving higher baptism numbers. Former Missionary Testimony: Hear a firsthand account from a whistleblower who witnessed these strategies in action and grappled with the ethical dilemmas they faced. The Cost of Conversion: Understand the psychological and emotional toll on both missionaries and converts when faith is reduced to a business transaction.Why Listen? Discover the hidden parallels between high-demand religion and corporate culture. Recognize the signs of coercive control and manipulation in religious settings. Equip yourself with knowledge to heal from or protect against exploitative practices.Tags: LDS Church, Mormon Missionaries, Mission President Tactics, Convert Baptisms, Religious Business Strategies, Narcissism, Healing from Abuse, True Crime, Cult Tactics, Religious Manipulation, High-Demand Religion, Coercive Control, Spiritual Abuse, Cult Psychology, Mormon Whistleblower Follow Jonathan on IG: @awakening_expansion Find more about Jonathan here!Link to Jonathan

Welcome to another episode of the "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick" podcast. We're excited to welcome Aimee Byrd, a renowned author and theologian, to discuss her latest book, "Saving Face: Finding Myself, God, and One Another Outside a Defaced Church." Join Michael and Aimee as they dive deep into the pages of her profound work, unpacking themes of vulnerability, spiritual abuse, and the journey toward embracing one's true self. Throughout the episode, Aimee shares her personal experiences with brokenness, healing, and the powerful act of unlearning to find truth and freedom. This conversation invites listeners to rethink their understanding of repentance, the role of women in faith communities, and the transformative power of God's grace. ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

In today's episode of Embracing Your Season, Paige shares an interview from her recent trip to AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors) in Dallas, TX with author and advocate Sandy Kirkham. She currently serves on the board of the Council Against Child Abuse and works with survivors, conducting victim support conferences. Sandy's book, Let Me Prey Upon You, contains the vulnerable details of abuse she suffered at the hands of her youth pastor for 5 years and the aftermath she has been navigating for 27 years. While this story is neither happy nor concluded with legal justice, it is vitally important for parents to hear so they can be made aware of this all-too-common occurrence and the signs to look out for. Special Note: If you or someone you know has suffered abuse at the hands of someone in ministry, please know: it is NOT your fault, you are not alone, and there are so many resources available to you, several listed below.Paige's TakeawaysGo with your gut.As parents, along with the presence of the Holy Spirit, if something doesn't feel right - TRUST YOUR GUT. Ask questions and don't brush off that bad feeling.Talk to your kids about how it's hard to say “No” sometimes.Teach your kids that they are allowed to be critical thinkers and that they are allowed to say “no” in how their bodies are used (hugging, high fives, etc.) - but that you also understand it can be hard for them to say “no” to an adult, especially one they know, like, and respect. Remind them that they can ALWAYS talk to you about anything. What you bury, you carry.There is so much value in processing wounds. If you don't process and leave it in the dark, it will continue to affect you, most of the time compounding and intensifying. When you're ready to process, think about who is truly safe for you to talk to. Start there. GOD IS WITH YOU. He always was, and He always will be. Questions About the Podcast? Email: paigeclingenpeel@gmail.comFacebook: @Paige ClingenpeelInstagram: @paigeclingenpeelYouTube: Embracing Your Season Sponsored by HomeWordHomeWordResources Mentioned:The Hope of SurvivorsList of Resources for victims, survivors, advocates, and anyone looking to learn more: https://sandyphillipskirkham.com/resources/Forgiving What You Can't Forget by Lysa TerkeurstBooks on Spiritual Abuse by Marie FortuneConnecting with Sandy KirkhamSandyPhillipsKirkham.comLet Me Prey Upon You BookEmail: sandykirkhamauthor@gmail.comKeywords/Hashtags#embracingyourseason #mentalhealth #podcast #podcastcommunity #paigeclingenpeel #homeword #aacc #sandykirkham #clergyabuse #sexualabuse #exploitation #churchabuse #clergysexualabuse #thehoSend us a text

Broken, crushed, smashed. Dominated by a superior will. Submission to a despot. These are not extracts from the North Korean Constitution, or the playbook of some kinky sex cult, but the “divinely inspired” ministry of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church. Today we bring daylight to some of the darkest perversions of Christianity devised by these self-procIaimed mainstream Christians. Religious Trauma expert Sam, our own much loved Lindy, and Dennis Wragge join us as we discuss spiritual abuse, and how our personal spiritual experiences change and develop when we escape from the thought police and blindness of an all-powerful cult and experience the freedom of enjoying spirituality each in our own way.Link for insiders- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ELyaswRd8rLPbfMepxYmBsYeaoq0wa8f/view?usp=sharingLink to GoFundMe for ICSA conference-https://gofund.me/36f27545Link to websites and discussions in podcast-https://www.icsahome.com/https://www.thereligioustraumacollective.com/https://www.hopevalleycounselling.com/abouthttps://janjalalich.com/https://www.recoveringfromreligion.org/#rfr-welcomehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44224521-escaping-the-maze-of-spiritual-abuseSam and Gillie Jenkinson podcast- https://youtu.be/GKKFKzBYP8Y?si=-nqkY2Qr8PgvENl2Lindy and Gillie Jenkinson podcast- https://youtu.be/ctWqHY48Dfk?si=0q4qZZy5hDwNWqenTo share your story or be a guest on the show, email info.getalife@proton.meGet a Life Paypal donations -https://www.paypal.me/getalifepodcastGet a Life GoFundMe-https://gofund.me/614bcd06PayPal link for USA- https://www.paypal.com/pools/c/8Tz4n35OJ8Olive Leaf Network- https://oliveleaf.network/Thinking of Leaving Pamphlet and resources - https://oliveleaf.network/resources/Faith in Practice document- https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/j3jsediontgltrjn9o7vr/Core-Doctrine-Faith-in-Practice-highlighted.pdf?rlkey=izmqxvfqwg1hg2q5r9lkofvre&st=ozuls0gp&dl=0https://web.archive.org/web/20241011154325/https://theplymouthbrethren.org.uk/beliefs/faith-in-practice/Aberdeen incident- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1riImgAqwaqGwjYq6vRQIr4_jscJA0eQN/view?usp=sharingIf we walk in the light letters-https://drive.google.com/file/d/14WlgJladl1r95YGxW0FbZ0prYfjlg7FU/view?usp=sharingAdmin/Legal email address:stouffvillelegal-gal@protonmail.comOffice address:22 Braid BendStouffville ONL4A 1R7#plymouthbrethrenchristianchurch #pbcc #abuse #church #cult #religion #trauma #religioustrauma #sexualabuse #mindcontrol #brainwashing #conversation #exmembers #exposingtruth #expose #exposure #whistleblower #getalifepodcast #getalife #podcast #rules #strict #exclusivebrethren #brucehales #BruceHales #BDH #BruceDHales #UniversalBusinessTeam #UBT #RRT #RapidReliefTeam #Aberdeen #OneSchoolGlobal #OSG #johnhales #shutup #withdrawnfrom #worldly #excommunicate #assemblydeath #christiansect #christiancult #canadiancult #canadiansect #sect #worldwidesect #worldwidecult #cultescape #cultescapestory #bully #bullying #brokenfamily #awareness #cultescape #cultandculturepodcast #cultescapee #cultescapeer #cultescapeeinterview #askingforhelp #unispace

"Spirituality is like nuclear fission—it has the power to illuminate and energize but also to destroy when mishandled." — Dan Koch"Thriving isn't about a perfect life; it's about alignment between our deepest values and our lived reality." — Dan KochOn our path to spiritual health, we need to keep our eyes open to the ways religion and spirituality have been exploited to coerce, control, and create chaos. Focusing on the intersection of religion and psychology, licensed therapist, researcher, and podcaster Dan Koch is creating a public conversation about spiritual harm and abuse, helping victims learn how to deal with spiritual trauma, and offering insight and guidance toward healthy religious and spiritual experiences.From his own personal journey of religious trauma to his extensive research on spiritual abuse, Dan shares insights on how faith communities can both wound and restore. The conversation covers the psychological impact of religious trauma, the complexities of self-diagnosis, and practical strategies for self-knowledge and healing for anyone who has wrestled with faith, struggled with past church experiences, or have lost their religion.In this conversation with Dan Koch, we discuss:The psychological study of spiritual abuse and harm, including conceptual definitions and the many factors that come along with them.The symptoms and most recognizable patterns that point to spiritual abuseThe impact of abuse and trauma on psychological and spiritual healthHow to reappraise and challenge harmful core beliefsAnd how to find healing, joy, and transcendence as we deal with past trauma.Spirituality: Pro-Social Benefits, with a Shadow Side of Harm, Exploitation, and ViolenceThrough With & For, as well as the broader work of The Thrive Center, we regularly explore the expansive benefits and positives that emerge from our inherent spirituality as human beings, and how that relates to our individual and collective thriving.Religion and spirituality can be an immense force for good, offering countless pro-social benefits to the world, helping us our innate spiritual capacities is an essential factor in what it means to thrive.But we have to acknowledge the harm and vice and corruption—the violence— that has been perpetrated through religious and spiritual contexts. Spiritual abuse is a serious matter and there's no way we can cultivate a full understanding or integrated experience of healthy spirituality without coming to terms with its prevalence and effects.Dan Koch's attention to spiritual harm and abuse is about clearing the way toward a healthier spirituality grounded in care and healing. By exposing and exploring past traumas in the context of heathy and respectful relationships, we can grow into a more joyful faith and transcendent spiritual life.About Dan KochDan Koch is a licensed therapist supporting patients working through the trauma of spiritual abuse; and his work and insight in this domain emerges from his empirical research. He's also host of the You Have Permission podcast. With a background in philosophy and theology, he explores questions of faith, doubt, and spiritual well-being. His research focuses on the psychological effects of religious trauma and how individuals can heal from spiritual abuse.Find more of his work at dankochwords.com.You can find his podcast, You Have Permission wherever you listen to podcasts and find exclusive episodes at patreon.com/dankoch.Helpful Links and ResourcesDan Koch's WebsiteJoin Dan Koch's PatreonYou Have Permission PodcastDan Koch's Research on Spiritual AbuseThe Spiritual Harm and Abuse Scale Clinical ScreenerDevelopment of the Spiritual Harm and Abuse Scale (Article, May 2022)Quotable"I would just distinguish between self-knowledge and self-diagnosis—one leads to growth, the other can lead to unnecessary fear.""Avoidance is both a symptom of trauma and a cause of it—it keeps the rest of the symptoms around.""Spirituality is like nuclear fission—it has the power to illuminate and energize but also to destroy when mishandled.""You can't worship a villain—when spiritual abuse distorts your image of God, it becomes almost impossible to stay in faith.""Thriving isn't about a perfect life; it's about alignment between our deepest values and our lived reality."Show NotesDan Koch on spiritual abuse, religious trauma, and healingHow beliefs about God shape emotional well-beingPractical self-knowledge exercises to promote healingThe impact of fear-based religious teachings on mental healthStrategies for deconstructing harmful religious experiencesUnderstanding Spiritual Abuse and Religious TraumaDefinition and key elements of spiritual abuseDifference between spiritual harm and abuseThe role of power, control, and coercion in religious settingsHow religious trauma manifests in daily lifeConnection between religious trauma and PTSDThe Psychological and Emotional Impact of Religious TraumaThe interplay between faith, fear, and mental healthThe long-term effects of toxic religious teachingsHow avoidance perpetuates trauma symptomsSelf-diagnosis vs. self-awareness in spiritual healingThe importance of challenging harmful core beliefsPractical Strategies for Self-Knowledge and HealingDan Koch's guided self-knowledge exerciseHow breath work can regulate anxiety from spiritual traumaRecognizing and reframing harmful core beliefsThe power of contemplative practices in spiritual healingUsing evidence-based approaches to reconstruct faithHow Churches and Communities Can Foster Spiritual HealthHow leadership can avoid coercive controlCreating spaces for questioning and spiritual growthThe importance of transparency in religious institutionsEncouraging self-agency in spiritual communitiesRedefining authority and spiritual guidance in a healthy wayPam King's Key TakeawaysSpirituality is like nuclear fission: its incredible power can be harnessed for abundant good that is essential to thriving, but when it is exploited or used irresponsibly, the fallout is catastrophic for human well-being.Thriving is an integrative process that can be better understood and better lived when we draw from psychological, philosophical, and theological sources.Sometimes our core beliefs are the source of spiritual harm and trauma, and these can be reframed, reappraised, and challenged—aligning us with self-respect, truth, and love. About the Thrive CenterLearn more at thethrivecenter.org.Follow us on Instagram @thrivecenterFollow us on X @thrivecenterFollow us on LinkedIn @thethrivecenter About Dr. Pam KingDr. Pam King is Executive Director the Thrive Center and is Peter L. Benson Professor of Applied Developmental Science at Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy. Follow her @drpamking. About With & ForHost: Pam KingSenior Director and Producer: Jill WestbrookOperations Manager: Lauren KimSocial Media Graphic Designer: Wren JuergensenConsulting Producer: Evan RosaSpecial thanks to the team at Fuller Studio and the Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy.

NEW MARRIAGE MONDAY on the Marriage By Design Podcast this week!  Go to www.marriagebydesignpodcast.com to access BOTH video-on-demand and audio-only! Marriage By Design is a channel dedicated to digging into God's design for marriage and family - as well as talking practically live that out in our marriages and families. Our goal is to leave you encouraged that you CAN do marriage and family by God's design and to give you HOPE that God IS FOR YOUR MARRIAGE AND YOUR FAMILY!!! Want to respond?  Holler at us at any of the social spots below!   Facebook  /  Instagram  /  Twitter  /  YouTube   Want to support us financially? Click below!

The pastors' wives chat with their good friend Christy Boulware. Christy is the founder of the nonprofit, Fearless Unite, and the author of Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World that Feeds It. In this episode we dive into some nuanced conversations about women in church leadership, church hurt, and spiritual abuse.Follow along with Christy: https://www.christyboulware.comTo purchase the BOOK, head here: ⁠https://pastorswivestellall.com/book⁠⁠To shop our MERCH, head here: ⁠https://pastorswivestellall.com/shop⁠⁠Want to support the Pastors' Wives Tell All podcast ministry? Become a patron: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/pastorswivestellall ⁠⁠SUBSCRIBE: ⁠Sign up⁠ for our email list and receive updates on new episodes, free gifts, and all the fun! Email sign up ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠!CONTACT US: ⁠hello@pastorswivestellall.com⁠⁠FOLLOW US:Website: ⁠⁠pastorswivestellall.com⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠@pastorswivestellall⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠@pastorswivestellall⁠⁠JESSICA:Instagram: ⁠⁠@jessica_taylor_83⁠⁠, ⁠⁠@come_away_missions⁠⁠, ⁠⁠@do_good_project__⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠Come Away Missions⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Do Good Project⁠⁠Websites: ⁠⁠Do Good Project⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Come Away Missions⁠⁠JENNA:Instagram: ⁠⁠@jennaallen⁠⁠, ⁠⁠@jennaallendesign⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠@JennaAllenDesign⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠Jenna Allen Design⁠⁠STEPHANIE:Instagram: ⁠⁠@msstephaniegilbert⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠I Literally LOL⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠Stephanie Gilbert⁠

Abuse is something that we all take (rightfully) very seriously.  However, it seems that spiritual abuse is oftern overlooked, particularly in Christian marriages.  If you or someone you know is being spiritually abused, please know that you are not alone. There is help available. In this episode of the podcast, we will discuss what spiritual abuse is, how to recognize it, and how to make sure that we are not spiritually abusing those that we love. Marriage By Design is a channel dedicated to digging into God's design for marriage and family - as well as talking practically live that out in our marriages and families. Our goal is to leave you encouraged that you CAN do marriage and family by God's design and to give you HOPE that God IS FOR YOUR MARRIAGE AND YOUR FAMILY!!! Want to respond?  Holler at us at any of the social spots below!   Facebook  /  Instagram  /  Twitter  /  YouTube   Want to support us financially? Click below!

Get a one-week trial of Flying Free for only $1 when you go to flyingfreetrial.com! What if I told you that creativity isn't about painting or poetry—it's about how you live? How you take the broken pieces of your story and shape them into something new, something beautiful, something yours.For too long, you were told who to be, what to believe, and how small to make yourself. But here's the truth: You were created to be a powerful co-creator in your own life. And in this episode we're talking about how to break free from perfectionism, fear, and old conditioning so you can start building a life that feels like you.Join Flying Higher in March HERE!

In today's episode, I explore the complex question: Is divorce worth it? For women who have endured long-term emotional and psychological abuse in marriage, this decision is often fraught with fear, confusion, and uncertainty.I examine the disadvantages of staying in an abusive relationship, as well as the significant challenges faced during and after the divorce process. With thought-provoking questions and practical insights, this episode will help you assess whether leaving your marriage is the right choice for you. If you're feeling trapped and looking for clarity, support, and a path forward, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:The emotional and psychological toll of staying in an abusive marriage.Physical and financial disadvantages of staying.Social and legal challenges of remaining in abuse.The harsh reality of divorce.Life after divorce—the path to healing.Guiding questions to determine if divorce is the right choice for you.Read the show notes and/or ask Natalie a question hereRelated Resources: Check out my interview with the founder of the app, Aimee Says, and then try it out for yourself!Read the article I mentioned, “How to Leave an Emotionally Abusive Relationship: 10 Steps.” Are you wondering what is happening inside your own painful and confusing marriage? I wrote a book just for you called Is It Me? Making Sense of Your Confusing Marriage: A Christian Woman's Guide to Hidden Emotional and Spiritual Abuse.My book, All the Scary Little Gods, is a spiritual memoir about healing from religious trauma and toxic programming. Flying Free is our online community educating and supporting Christian women in emotionally abusive marriages. Whether you want to stay in your marriage or leave, we want to equip you through this program.Flying Higher is my live mentorship program for any Christian woman interested in 10Xing their self-development progress. 

Move From toxicity to trust, healing, and renewed faith.   Host Curtis Chang and Mike Cosper, creator of "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill" investigate the unsettling realities of church abuse and the unchecked authority that breeds toxicity within faith communities. Drawing from his latest book, "The Church in Dark Times," Cosper discusses the urgent need for accountability in evangelical settings, using the Mars Hill case as a poignant example. Curtis and Mike explore the intersection of leadership and emotional and spiritual abuse to help us all discover pathways to healing and rebuilding trust in the aftermath of betrayal. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the dynamics of power and the importance of safeguarding church values.   Send written questions or voice memos for “Ask Curtis” episodes to: askcurtis@redeemingbabel.org   Get a 25% discount when you buy The Art of Disagreeing by Gavin Ortland at thegoodbook.com with code: GOODFAITH   Resources from this episode: Mike Cosper's The Church in Dark Times Listen to The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill Paul Petry's Joyful Exiles blog Mike Cosper's Land of My Sojourn Learn more about Hannah Arendt Hannah Arendt on Adolf Eichmann for the New Yorker: part 1 & part 2 Kant's Argument for Radical Evil by Stephen R. Grimm (pdf) Hannah Arendt's The Origins of Totalitarianism Listen to Dr. Timothy Keller: Don't Despair, God Isolates You for a Reason Listen to Dr. Timothy Keller: How to Deal With Dark Times Listen to Dr. Timothy Keller: Counter-Culture for the Common Good More From Mike Cosper: Books by Mike Cosper HERE Listen to Mike on The Bulletin Listen to Devil and the Deep Blue Sea Follow Mike's Instagram Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up:  Redeeming Babel Newsletter

In this eye-opening episode, Natalie shares her personal story of spiritual abuse and excommunication, offering a powerful backdrop for her conversation with author and spiritual consultant, Remy Diederich. Together, they delve into the dynamics of toxic faith, spiritual abuse, and how unhealthy church cultures can harm individuals and families.Remy, the author of Broken Trust, shares insights from his decades of ministry experience and his passion for helping people heal from spiritual abuse. Whether you're grappling with toxic religious environments or recovering from years of harmful teachings, this episode offers hope, practical advice, and a fresh perspective.Key Takeaways:Understanding Spiritual Abuse: Spiritual abuse often involves toxic leadership that weaponizes faith to control, manipulate, or shame individuals.Toxic Faith vs. Spiritual Abuse: Toxic faith is the belief that you must perform or meet certain standards to please God, while spiritual abuse occurs when leaders use those beliefs to exploit or control others.The Impact of Spiritual Abuse on Relationships: Abuse within churches often mirrors abusive dynamics in families, leading to distrust, division, and confusion.Healing from Spiritual Abuse: Recovery begins with identifying harmful patterns, stepping away if necessary, and seeking support through books, therapy, and supportive communities.The Power of Questioning Toxic Narratives: It's okay to question teachings and leaders. Faith flourishes when it's rooted in personal connection with God, not human-made rules.Read the show notes and/or ask Natalie a question hereRelated Resources: Read one (or all) of Remy's books: Broken Trust, Healing the Hurts of Your Past, Return From Exile, and Stuck are some of my favorites. Connect with Remy on his site. Go visit Remy over on YouTube. Email Remy at remy@readingremy.com to request an audiobook code (limited supply).Check out Be Emboldened for support as you recover from spiritual abuse.Related article and episode: “Bethlehem Baptist Church Is Not Safe for Emotionally Abused Women,” and “Is Your Church Safe?”Are you wondering what is happening inside your own painful and confusing marriage? I wrote a book just for you called Is It Me? Making Sense of Your Confusing Marriage: A Christian Woman's Guide to Hidden Emotional and Spiritual Abuse.My book, All the Scary Little Gods, is a spiritual memoir about healing from religious trauma and toxic programming. Flying Free is our online community educating and supporting Christian women in emotionally abusive marriages. Whether you want to stay in your marriage or leave, we want to equip you through this program.Flying Higher is my live mentorship program for any Christian woman interested in 10Xing their self-development progress. Remy is a seasoned pastor and spiritual consultant with a heart for helping others overcome life's challenges. Over his three decades of ministry, he's authored six books that offer practical guidance and spiritual support for those seeking healing and connection to God. Remy's expertise extends beyond the pulpit. He's spent 24 years as a spiritual consultant at an addiction treatment center, where he's witnessed firsthand the transformative power of faith and hope. Today, Remy dedicates his time to empowering pastors to build healthy church cultures and coaching individuals on the themes of his books. A lifelong resident of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Remy is married with three adult children. His passion for helping others shines through in his writing, speaking, and counseling.