In this gripping podcast episode, we welcome Marbeth Skwarczynski, mother of 'Preacher Boys' host Eric and accomplished author, as she discusses her harrowing experiences growing up in the IFB (Independent Fundamental Baptist) movement. We dive deep into her real-life inspirations for her compelling book 'No Longer Invisible' and explore the emotional challenges and abuses she faced and overcame. This candid conversation sheds light on the stark realities behind seemingly perfect façades in religious communities, highlighting her journey through severe depression, working for years in a Christian school under exploitative conditions, and ultimately deconstructing her faith. Learn about her powerful fiction works that reveal the lives of those impacted by such environments and her latest book 'Princess of Moab.' Don't miss this emotional and eye-opening episode, especially if you've ever questioned how religion can sometimes manipulate and control. Subscribe and hit the bell icon for more inspiring stories and eye-opening discussions!

Join Jenny Smith on the UnHolier Podcast for a raw, unfiltered conversation with Joanna, a survivor who escaped a terrifying ordeal. At a young age, her family was lured into a seemingly innocent church in Washington State, only to discover it was a controlling cult. Joanna bravely shares the shocking details of the severe abuse she endured, the manipulation by trusted leaders, and the heartbreaking betrayal that led to her time in the foster care system.

This isn't just a story of survival—it's a testament to the devastating power of cults and the incredible strength it takes to break free. Be prepared for a powerful, emotional, and eye-opening episode that will challenge everything you think you know about faith, family, and what it truly means to heal.

Don't miss this gripping episode.

#CultSurvivor #SurvivorStory #EmotionalTrauma #PodcastForSurvivors #CultAwareness #HealingJourney #TrueCrimePodcast #AbuseAwareness #BraveStories #UnHolierPodcast #SexualAssaultAwareness

We're switching gears (but keeping it real) with Jonathon Hamilton, a true survivor who embraces the chaotic reality of deconstruction. Jonathan walks us through his journey of shedding the rigid religious labels that once defined him, explaining why he now considers himself 'no one and everyone.' He brings a fascinating and humorous perspective on how losing your faith and identity can be the most authentic thing you ever do.

This episode dives into the absurdities of high-control systems, the humor in finding your new true self, and the necessary process of grieving the life you thought you had. If you've ever felt like you had to be the person everyone else wanted you to be, join us for a conversation packed with unexpected laughter and genuine insights on what it takes to stop performing and finally be everyone to a select few. #Unholier #Deconstruction #Exvangelical #ExReligious #ReligiousTrauma #CultSurvival #FindingAuthenticity #HighControl #PostFaith

In this gripping episode of the UnHolier Podcast, we welcome Jessica, a brave survivor of the troubled teen industry, who shares her powerful story of resilience. Jessica recounts her harrowing experiences in the Happiness Hill and Shenandoah Haven homes, exposing the extreme and abusive practices rooted within these institutions. From manipulative religious control to physical and emotional abuse, Jessica details the struggles she faced as a naïve teen cast into this unforgiving environment. We also delve into the broader implications of how cult-like mentalities and unregulated 'therapeutic' programs continue to harm vulnerable youths. Despite the trauma, Jessica's journey is one of survival and awareness-raising, providing invaluable insights for parents and teen survivors alike. #Survivors #TroubledTeenIndustry #CultAwareness #JessicaStory #UnHolierPodcast

🔥 The exhaustion of religious legalism is REAL. You don't want to miss this jaw-dropping, deeply personal conversation!

In this powerful episode of the UN Holier Podcast, host Jenny Smith sits down with the incredible Christiana Miller, a talented singer, songwriter, and influential social media personality. Christiana grew up completely immersed in the ultra-restrictive Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) movement.

Christiana shares her extraordinary life story, revealing what it was truly like to travel with her family to over 500 IFB churches across the country. She opens up about the immense challenges of leaving this restrictive environment, and the emotional journey she took toward questioning and ultimately breaking free from the legalism she was raised in.

How do you redefine your entire life after leaving the only faith structure you’ve ever known? Christiana discusses her thriving music career, the raw process of faith deconstruction, and offers powerful, practical advice for others contemplating leaving the IFB or any high-control religious system.

This isn't just a story about leaving—it's a story about freedom, personal growth, and finding your own voice.

🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell for more unfiltered conversations!#IFB #IndependentFundamentalBaptist #Deconstruction #FaithDeconstruction #LeavingReligion #Legalism #Podcast #Christianity #ChristianPodcast #ChristianaMiller #JennySmith #FaithCrisis #PersonalGrowth

Welcome back to the UnHolier Podcast! In today's episode, host Jenny Smith interviews a returning guest, 'A', a survivor of the troubled teen home, Shenandoah Haven, in Cleveland, Tennessee. They dive deep into what 'A' has been up to since her first appearance, including connecting with other survivors and gathering eye-opening information about the abuse and corruption at Shenandoah Haven and its associated church. From revelations of misuse of power, sexual abuse, starvation as punishment, and bizarre contractual obligations, this episode uncovers the harrowing realities faced by the teens. They also discuss legal actions, the rebranding tactics of these institutions, and offer advice to both potential parents considering these homes and current/former staff. This episode is a call to action for legal reforms, support for survivors, and holding abusers accountable. #TroubledTeens #SurvivorStories #HumanRights #ChurchAbuse #LegalReforms

Are you questioning your faith, or struggling with past wounds from a high-control religious environment?

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Anne Russo, a groundbreaking therapist specializing in religious trauma. With her forthcoming book on the topic, Anne shares her personal experiences and her expert insight into the silent epidemic of religious trauma.

You'll discover:

• What religious trauma truly is and how it manifests.
• Practical, actionable advice for navigating your healing journey.
• The difference between healthy faith and harmful, oppressive doctrines.
• The path to finding community, support, and freedom beyond the confines of your past.

Whether you're struggling with a faith transition or simply want to understand this critical topic, Anne's compassionate guidance offers a powerful roadmap to reclaiming your life's joy.

#ReligiousTrauma #MentalHealth #Deconstruction #FaithTransition #HealingJourney #HighControlGroups #CultSurvivor #Exvangelical #Therapy #AnneRusso #TraumaRecovery #PodcastInterview #FindingFreedom #SpiritualAbuse #TheHealingProcess

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of physical, emotional, and sexual trauma. Viewer discretion is advised.

In this explosive episode of Un Holier Than Thou, Jenny sits down with special co-host David Keck to a hear a story of survival that will leave you speechless. We are honored to welcome Martha, a brave author, trauma coach, and speaker, who shares her harrowing journey of escaping a restrictive and abusive religious cult.

Martha's story is a testament to human resilience. From a young age, she was subjected to extreme control, psychological manipulation, and shocking physical punishment within the cult compound. She details the chilling tactics used to isolate members, the strict punishments for disobedience, and the impossible choices she faced.

This isn't just Martha's story; it's a deep dive into the hidden world of cults, a discussion on how they operate, and what happens to survivors when they finally break free. Martha pulls back the curtain on the incredible challenges of re-entering the "real world," the struggle to rebuild her identity, and the long, painful road to healing from deep-seated trauma.

You'll hear Martha describe:

• The terrifying reality of life inside the cult compound.

• The intense psychological control and brutal punishment tactics.

• The secret escape plan that changed her life forever.

• Her ongoing struggle with faith and healing after leaving.

• How she transformed her trauma into a powerful mission to help others.

Don't miss this powerful, emotional, and ultimately inspiring episode that proves no one has to feel alone in their healing journey.

https://trauma-x.org/

https://youtu.be/k_fOjKdtnlc?si=lKWG7ieFm51Nf0_P

#UnHolierThanThou #CultSurvivor #ReligiousTrauma #Cults #ExposingCults #HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #OvercomingAdversity #SurvivorStory #AbuseAwareness #DavidKeck #Jenny #Podcast #Interview #RealLifeStory