Best Bju Cult Podcasts (2024)

1
NEW PODCASTS 2:20

1M ago2:20

2:20

Speaking Up has ended, but I have two new podcasts out now. My new podcasts are 'Surviving BJU: A Christian Cult' and 'Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism'. “Surviving Bob Jones University: A Christian Cult” is a limited podcast by Andrew Pledger. The show is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the fundamentalist Christian college BJU, which …

1
S2E12: The Incarceration of Japanese America — with Scott Okamoto 1:59:46

2M ago1:59:46

1:59:46

To wrap up AAPI History Month, friend of the show Scott Okamoto joins Gail and Nate to share about his family's history during the years that Japanese Americans were incarcerated in concentration camps in the western part of the US and Canada. Also, as one of the hosts of the podcast Asians in Baseball, Scott needed to be tested on his knowledge of…

1
Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism - OUT NOW - New Separate Podcast 1:55

4M ago1:55

1:55

Listen to 'Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Other Platforms Join Andrew Pledger as he exposes Bob Jones University's dark history and teachings while amplifying other survivors’ stories. BJU is a fundamentalist college with its roots in white supremacy and is known for its culture of indoctrination, conformity, a…

1
S2E11: Beyond Abortion: The Need for Reproductive Justice — with Kimberly Mutcherson 1:38:44

5M ago1:38:44

1:38:44

Professor of Law Kimberly Mutcherson joins Gail and Nate to discuss the history of abortion access in the US, the current landscape of women's healthcare, and the need for reproductive justice in the pro-choice conversation. Professor Mutcherson was the former co-host of the Anthem-Award-winning podcast—The Power of Attorney—which is produced by Ru…

1
S2B01: Ash Valentine's Day - Too Much Love Will Kill You (or Those You Love) 1:02:22

5M ago1:02:22

1:02:22

Happy Valentine's Day! On today's episode, Gail and Nate talk about what happens when you love everyone and everything else more than God. Oh, and be sure to check out the Content Warning event taking place in Portland this weekend! Tickets are available at contentwarningevent.com. If you're looking for support for religious trauma survivors, check…

1
S2E10: My Cult Was in a Documentary, Part 3 — with Eric Skwarczynski 1:44:50

6M ago1:44:50

1:44:50

In the third part of our miniseries, "My Cult Was in a Documentary," Eric Skwarczynski joins the show to talk about his work investigating the Independent Fundamental Baptists and about the Max/Investigation Discovery docuseries Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals. Eric's Links: Instagram | @preacherboysdoc Preacher Boys podcast | website Film Scho…

1
S2E09: On Leaving BJU and Klandamentalism — with Dr. Camille Lewis 1:34:45

6M ago1:34:45

1:34:45

Dr. Camille Lewis joins Gail and Nate to share her story of growing up in the IFB, her life at Bob Jones University, the controversies that forced her to leave, and her ongoing work analyzing and reporting on BJU and the larger world of fundamentalism. Read Dr. Lewis' story of leaving BJU here. Follow Dr. Lewis' ongoing reporting and analysis of BJ…

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S2E08: My Cult Was in a Documentary, Part 2 — with Jessica Goforth 1:37:26

6M ago1:37:26

1:37:26

Our good friend Jessica Goforth joins us to talk about her reactions to the Amazon Prime series Shiny Happy People, which exposes some of the abuses in the Christian cult known as IBLP or ATI. Jessica is the host of the podcast Leaving the Village, where she shares her own story of surviving IBLP and interviews others who have also escaped the cult…

1
S2E07: We're Back! An Update on Life, Thoughts on Current Events, and the Deconstruction World 1:49:44

7M ago1:49:44

1:49:44

Nate and Gail return for an update on life. We discuss weddings (especially the problems with evangelical ones), current events, Palestine and Israel (briefly), meeting people you've made friends with online, building new community after leaving toxic spaces, how to not fall into previous traps that people often take out of evangelicalism into thei…

1
Beyond BJU - NEW PODCAST 1:32

11M ago1:32

1:32

Listen to more survivor's stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms. Join Andrew Pledger as he speaks with survivors who have endured harm at Bob Jones University, a fundamentalist college known for its strict regulations and emphasis on indoctrination, conformity, and control. The influence of BJU extends far beyond i…

1
15 - Finale 24:09

11M ago24:09

24:09

More stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms. - Contact me on Instagram or Facebook In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the impact of fundamentalism on society as a whole, shining a light on the negative consequences that arise from rigid and uncompromising belief systems. I also share some final thoughts…

1
14 - 'Christian's' Reactions to Survivors 52:20

11M ago52:20

52:20

In this episode, I speak with Eric Skwarczynski about Christian's reactions when survivors speak up. Eric hosts the Preacher Boys Podcast, a platform for brave survivors to share their stories of physical, mental, and sexual abuse within the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement. He comes on the show to share his opinions on common responses he'…

1
13 - Leaving and Recovering 59:07

11M ago59:07

59:07

More stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms. - In this episode, we will hear from survivors who have found healing and hope after leaving Bob Jones University. BJU is a fundamentalist Christian college with a controversial history, and our guests will share their personal journeys of overcoming the trauma and abuse …

1
12 - Cult Experts Insights 1:40:09

11M ago1:40:09

1:40:09

I created a summary of my analysis of BJU from the previous episode and I sent it to two cult experts. The cult experts are Rachel Bernstein LMFT and Daniella Mestyanek Young. Rachel Bernstein, therapist, and renowned cult expert shares her insights on Bob Jones University. She is the host of the “IndoctriNation” podcast which covers cults, manipul…

1
Fashion Show Controversy: The Untold Story - PATREON BONUS 4:57

11M ago4:57

4:57

Listen to the full episode on my Patreon Here: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this Patreon bonus episode, I dig into the untold story of the infamous BJU fashion show controversy. "The Bob Jones University fashion controversy, also known as “Wrap-Coat-Gate,” arose when trustees and administrators at Bob Jones University grew alarmed over …

1
My BJU Story - PATREON BONUS 5:59

11M ago5:59

5:59

Listen to the full episode on my Patreon Here: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this Patreon episode, I share my story of attending Bob Jones University. Connect with Andrew Pledger Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger More stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, …

1
11 - Is BJU Really a Cult? 44:59

11M ago44:59

44:59

In this captivating episode, we explore Bob Jones University in-depth, examining its characteristics and practices through the lens of cult analysis. Drawing from the renowned works of cult expert Steven Hassan's BITE model and psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton's Criteria for Thought Reform, we unravel the complex dynamics at play within this institut…

1
10 - Survivors Stories 1:16:10

11M ago1:16:10

1:16:10

Learn more about BJU on Dr. Camille Lewis's blog WutBJU: https://wutbju.tumblr.com/ - In this episode, we will hear powerful stories of resilience, healing, and growth from survivors who have overcome the trauma and abuse they experienced at Bob Jones University. BJU is a controversial fundamentalist Christian college, and this podcast sheds light …

1
09 - BIPOC at BJU 32:42

11M ago32:42

32:42

In this episode, we delve into the experiences of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students at Bob Jones University, an institution with a deeply rooted racist past. Join us as we navigate the complexities of being a minority in an environment that has historically perpetuated discrimination and exclusion. Listen to the personal stori…

1
Finale 3:16

11M ago3:16

3:16

Get updates on my new project on Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Mindshift - Dr. Clint Heacock 44:21

11M ago44:21

44:21

Dr. Clint Heacock is the host of the MindShift Podcast, which is dedicated to raising awareness of the dangers posed by cults and other high-control religious groups, the agenda of the Christian Right and Dominion theology, and providing resources to those suffering from religious trauma syndrome He is an ex-evangelical former pastor and Bible coll…

1
SAFER - Laura Padgett & Jenni Espinosa 52:24

11M ago52:24

52:24

Laura Padgett & Jenni Espinosa - Abuse Recovery Coaches, Policy Consultants, Domestic Violence Advocates Laura holds nearly two decades of public policy advocacy and cross-cultural ministry leadership experience. She has turned her passion for helping others heal into abuse recovery coaching through body-mind wellness, mindfulness, and therapeutic …

1
When Religion Hurts You - Dr. Laura Anderson 1:21:51

11M ago1:21:51

1:21:51

Dr. Laura Anderson is a therapist, trauma resolution and recovery coach, writer, educator, and creator who specializes in complex trauma with a focus on domestic violence, sexualized violence and religious trauma. She holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a PhD in Mind Body Medicine from Saybrook University with her research fo…

1
After GRACE 37:49

11M ago37:49

37:49

In this episode, an anonymous survivor came forward about their sexual abuse and how it was mishandled at BJU. This person experienced this at BJU many years after the GRACE Report was released to the public. Join the Facebook discussion group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Con…

1
Reading the GRACE Report 1:32:40

11M ago1:32:40

1:32:40

Read the full GRACE Report: http://bjugrace.com/the-grace-investigation-at-bju/the-grace-report-on-bob-jones-university/ In this episode, I read some highlights of the GRACE Report of BJU. The GRACE report is a 301-page report on the mishandling of sex abuse allegations at Bob Jones University. The report shows Bob Jones University responding to ra…

1
08 - Being a Woman, GRACE Report 47:39

11M ago47:39

47:39

Join the discussion group HERE https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ In this episode, we look at how women at Bob Jones University, a conservative Christian school, face challenges and limitations due to strict dress codes and patriarchal teachings. We talk about the ways women are pressured, objectified, and criticized for their appear…

1
07 - BJU and Me: Queer Voices 47:41

11M ago47:41

47:41

Buy the book BJU and Me: Queer Voices from the World's Most Christian University Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify In this group interview, we hear from two of the queer survivors who share their stories in the book BJU and Me: Queer Voices from the World’s Most Christian University. This book, edited by Lance Weldy, a former quee…

1
06 - Being Queer at BJU 1:12:56

11M ago1:12:56

1:12:56

In this powerful episode, we delve into the lived experiences of queer individuals at Bob Jones University, where being queer is viewed as a sin that requires fixing through counseling. Join us as we shed light on the harmful environment created by the spread of homophobia through hateful sermons and the weaponization of scripture. Through candid i…

1
05 - Approach to Mental Health 57:33

11M ago57:33

57:33

Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify - In this eye-opening episode, we shine a spotlight on the concerning approach to mental health at Bob Jones University, where psychological evidence takes a backseat to spiritual beliefs. Join us as we explore the detrimental impact of this perspective, which often blames and shames students for …

1
Stumbling - Brandon Flanery 53:09

11M ago53:09

53:09

Brandon Flanery is an ex-pastor, ex-missionary, ex-evangelical who has been writing and researching the intersection of faith and sexuality, most recently why people are leaving Christianity. He’s been featured in Baptist News Global, the Colorado Springs Indy, and with the University of Colorado. His new book Stumbling: a sassy memoir about coming…

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S2E06: Jews for Jesus, Messianic Jews, & Other Christian Falsehoods About Judaism — with Rabbi Ariann Weitzman 1:47:07

11M ago1:47:07

1:47:07

Rabbi Ariann Weitzman spends some time addressing a few of the common misconceptions Christians have about Jews and educating us about the relationship between the two religions. This insightful conversation is among our favorite episodes, and we hope you find it as helpful and informative as we did! Bnai Keshet Reconstructionist Synagogue Four Com…

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04 - Leadership, Control, and Daily Life 1:23:51

11M ago1:23:51

1:23:51

This episode reveals the authoritarian leadership at Bob Jones University. We expose the hidden dynamics of this institution and the struggles of students who face a rigid system of control. We also explore control and daily life as a student at Bob Jones University. We share the stories of former students who reveal the challenges and harms of thi…

1
03 - Teachings, Rules, and Toxic Culture 58:47

11M ago58:47

58:47

This episode exposes the troubling legacy of Bob Jones University, a Christian college that has faced intense scrutiny for its toxic teachings and harmful rules. In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the controversial practices of this institution, shedding light on the experiences of those affected by its ideologies, and its toxic culture…

1
02 - Understanding Fundamentalism 46:22

11M ago46:22

46:22

Fundamentalism refers to a belief system that upholds a strict interpretation of religious or political ideologies, which are considered fundamental to the faith or cause. Fundamentalism is a mindset or an approach to an ideology and can happen in any social group. This episode will specifically examine the needs that fundamentalist Christianity pr…

1
01 - History, Politics 1:15:44

11M ago1:15:44

1:15:44

Bob Jones University is a private Christian university located in Greenville, South Carolina. The university has a long and complex history, marked by controversies and legal battles over issues such as racial segregation, academic freedom, sexual abuse claims, discrimination against LGBTQIA+ students, and the toxicity of religious fundamentalism. …

1
My Deconversion - Dee Murphy - ARCHIVE 1:18:55

12M ago1:18:55

1:18:55

Listen to The Stacie's Mom Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thestaciesmompodcast/streams Dee Murphy from "The Stacie's Mom Podcast" shares her upbringing and religious deconversion. Andrew's Links Become a Patreon member HERE and access all bonus episodes + other benefits. https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Connect with Andrew Pledger through s…

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Leaving the PCG - Hannah Strickland - ARCHIVE 1:41:11

12M ago1:41:11

1:41:11

Hannah Strickland grew up in the PCG from birth until the age of 15. The organization seemed truly malevolent to them, as it appeared to exploit the less fortunate to provide a lavish lifestyle for the leadership and their headquarters family. Over time, many from their generation decided to leave, but their family, with the exception of their moth…

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Surviving BJU: A Christian Cult - Trailer #2 1:42

12M ago1:42

1:42

Subscribe here to Surviving BJU: https://lnk.bio/survivingbjupod "Surviving Bob Jones University: A Christian Cult” is a limited podcast by Andrew Pledger (COMING AUGUST 23, 2023). The show is a thought-provoking podcast series that explores the history of Bob Jones University, the psychology of fundamentalism, the criteria for cults, and survivors…

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S2E05: Bob Jones University Will Never Do Right — with Christopher Peterman 1:53:49

12M ago1:53:49

1:53:49

On this episode we are joined by Christopher Peterman, a former student at Bob Jones University who organized the first ever student-run protest at BJU. Chris shares his own story of abuse at BJU and the severe trauma that motivated him to stand up to the administration at the self-proclaimed "Fortress of Faith." Further Reading: "Bob Jones Univers…

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S2E04: What You Need to Know About Bob Jones University — with Rick Pidcock 1:20:25

1y ago1:20:25

1:20:25

Gail and Nate discuss a bit about the history of Bob Jones University, its influence on the Evangelical world at large, and the odd extremism it's known for. Rick Pidcock joins in to provide some updates on the university and share some thoughts about the possible future of the institution. Sources: Bob Jones University v. United States "The Real O…

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Silenced in Eden - Jo Lloyd Johnson 1:11:44

1y ago1:11:44

1:11:44

Jo Lloyd Johnson is a childhood sexual abuse survivor and deconverted Christian who just published her first book “Silenced in Eden.” Her book walks readers through her childhood, the realization of her repressed abuse, and the journey to begin healing. Her path to self-love and acceptance was her journey out of religion. Order her book here: https…

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S2E03: Stay-at-Home Dads Sipping Patriarchal Tears — with Scott Okamoto & Rick Pidcock 1:16:18

1y ago1:16:18

1:16:18

Nothing upsets manly men quite like stepping beyond the gender norms, and stay-at-home dads are a great way to get them all riled up. In this episode, we chat with our friends Rick and Scott, who share some insights into their lives as stay-at-home dads and what it says about their masculinity. Spoiler alert: it says nothing, except that maybe they…

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From Skepticism to Acceptance - Kristina Mand-Lakhiani 33:45

1y ago33:45

33:45

Kristina Mand-Lakhiani is an international speaker, entrepreneur, artist, philanthropist, and mother of 2 kids. As a co-founder of Mindvalley, a leading publisher in the personal growth industry, Kristina dedicated the last 20 years of her career from teachers like Michael Beckwith, Bob Proctor, Lisa Nichols, and many more. She started her career i…

1
What is Truth? - PATREON BONUS PREVIEW 3:59

1y ago3:59

3:59

Listen to the full episode on my Patreon HERE: https://patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the significance, enigmatic nature, and profound impact that truth has on our understanding of the world. I dig into the psychology of mankind's search for truth, and how cults prey on this drive. Join me as I draw from the…

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S2E02: My Cult Was in a Documentary — with Janice Lagata 1:48:17

1y ago1:48:17

1:48:17

Janice Lagata returns! Janice and Nate were both members of Hillsong NYC until they left in 2017, and since then their former church has been the subject of numerous exposés and documentaries. The latest, The Secrets of Hillsong by FX and Vanity Fair dives into their disgraced former pastor, Carl Lentz. Though Janice isn't exactly thrilled with how…

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Christian Entertainment w/ Ashleigh Doxtater - Patreon Bonus Preview 6:54

1y ago6:54

6:54

Listen to the full episode on my Patreon HERE: https://patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this Patreon bonus episode, I talk with Ashleigh Doxtater about the Christian entertainment that we both grew up with. We discuss Veggie Tales, Bible Man, Adventures in Odyssey, and much more. Follow Ashleigh on TikTok HERE: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashedendox?_t=8dd…

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Science and Faith - Haley the Scientist 1:18:16

1y ago1:18:16

1:18:16

Haley Cole is the podcast host of Divinely Modern, a blogger, and scientist with a mission to dismantle patriarchal theology, fight for justice, and discover a healthy spirituality after leaving toxic Christianity. She believes in approaching faith with critical thinking and open-mindedness. To read her blog or learn more about her and her platform…

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Crucifying the Bible - Deborah Grace 58:40

1y ago58:40

58:40

Deborah Grace spent the better part of her life writing for the legitimacy of the scriptures, but it was in those writings that the truth began to surface. Having been told numerous times over the years that she would one day write a book, Crucifying the Bible is her first published book and the last point of contention she ever imagined taking on.…

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Exorcisms in a Catholic Cult - Ryan Hernandez 1:13:14

1y ago1:13:14

1:13:14

Ryan is still a practicing Catholic but the experiences of trauma he went through have left him wounded. He has been on a healing journey and has been active on a podcast to spread awareness of cult abuse and how religious people with good intentions can turn into fanatics. The name of his podcast is The Truth That Heals Podcast. Connect with Ryan …

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Christian Camp Stories - Patreon Bonus Preview 3:28

1y ago3:28

3:28

Listen to the full episode HERE for only $3 monthly + access all bonus episodes. https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger - I need your support to continue creating the podcast. In this Patreon bonus episode, I share stories of attending the Christian camp that my IFB church owned. Follow me on Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links …

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