In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode, Phyllie and Nicky open up about their childhoods as Jehovah’s Witnesses and what it was like to walk away from the only world they knew.

From the trauma of being disfellowshipped and shunned by your community to the emotional weight of never celebrating holidays, birthdays, or fitting in at school, they reflect on how those early years shaped their sense of self, belonging, and trust in authority.

They also answer listener-submitted questions about the religion’s beliefs, including:

• Why Jehovah’s Witnesses don’t celebrate holidays or birthdays

• What it’s like to be disfellowshipped

• Why they refuse blood transfusions

• The role of women and the implications of domestic abuse

• Their stance on voting, military service, and education

While this episode includes honest critique and painful memories, it also explores the strength of community among Jehovah’s Witnesses—and how Phyllie and Nicky’s families navigated their departure with grace and compassion.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever questioned their belief system, walked away from a controlling environment, or felt alone in their journey to reclaim their voice.

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hello@themidlifecrisishotline.com

🎶 Music Credit:

“Your Little Fool” by Baby & the Luvies

Resources:

Apostasy: Directed by Daniel Kokotajlo

Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath: The Jehovah's Witnesses