In this episode, Troy and Brian welcome new co-host Sharon Madere, discussing her background and experiences with Last Days Ministries. The conversation explores the evolution of the Jesus People Movement, the financial dynamics of Keith Green's ministry, and the shift from idealism to conservatism within evangelicalism. They delve into the impact of Trump on American politics, the role of nationalism, and the importance of leadership transitions. The episode also touches on the global reaction to American politics, the need for economic change, and the historical context of current events, concluding with a discussion about the future of the podcast.

Takeaways

• The podcast welcomes Sharon Madere as a new co-host.
• Reflections on the Jesus People Movement's origins and evolution.
• Keith Green's ministry had significant financial dynamics.
• The shift from idealism to conservatism in evangelicalism is notable.
• Trump's impact on American politics is profound and concerning.
• Nationalism has crept into modern evangelicalism.
• Leadership transitions are crucial for the future of movements.
• Economic disparities may lead to significant social change.
• Empathy and decency are being challenged in current politics.
• The podcast aims to highlight positive stories amidst challenges.

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Troy and Brian welcome Sarah Steel, the brilliant host and creator of the award-winning podcast Let's Talk About Sects. Sarah delves into the complex world of high control groups and cults, sharing insights from her extensive research and personal interviews. Together, they explore the psychological impact of cults, the challenges of leaving such groups, and the importance of storytelling in understanding these experiences. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that sheds light on the hidden dynamics of coercive control and the resilience of those who break free.

Links:

• Let's Talk About Sects
• Do As I Say: How cults control, why we join them, and what they teach us about bullying, abuse and coercion

Key takeaways:

• Sarah Steel, host of "Let's Talk About Sects," explores the dynamics of high control groups and cults, emphasizing the importance of understanding coercive control.
• The episode highlights the psychological impact of cults on individuals, including challenges with identity, autonomy, and critical thinking.
• Sarah shares insights into the process of leaving cultic groups, noting the complexity and difficulty of breaking free from such environments.
• The discussion underscores the power of storytelling in destigmatizing the experiences of former cult members and raising awareness about coercive control.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore resources like Cult Information and Family Support and the International Cultic Studies Association for further understanding and support.

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In this episode, we delve into the unique upbringing of comedian Jeremy Alder, who was raised in a fundamentalist Christian household. Jeremy shares his experiences of being homeschooled in Texas by missionary parents who distrusted mainstream culture, leading to a childhood without TV or the internet. He reflects on the challenges and unexpected benefits of such a sheltered upbringing, and how it shaped his worldview and comedic voice. Join us as Jeremy candidly discusses his journey from a deeply religious environment to finding his own path in comedy and life.

Jeremy's links:

• Jeremy Alder's website
• Instagram
• Facebook

Key takeaways from the episode:

1. Unique Upbringing: Jeremy Alder was raised in a fundamentalist Christian household, which significantly shaped his early life and worldview.
2. Homeschooling Experience: His education was conducted at home by missionary parents, leading to a childhood without exposure to mainstream media like TV and the internet.
3. Cultural Isolation: This sheltered upbringing resulted in a lack of cultural touchpoints, which Jeremy had to navigate and catch up on later in life.
4. Faith and Skepticism: Jeremy's journey included phases of deep faith, skepticism, and eventual deconstruction of his religious beliefs.
5. Comedy as an Outlet: Stand-up comedy became a creative outlet for Jeremy, allowing him to process his past and connect with others who had similar experiences.
6. Family Dynamics: His relationship with his family, particularly his parents, was complex and influenced by differing views on faith and lifestyle.
7. Personal Growth: Jeremy's story is one of personal growth, as he learned to balance his upbringing with his own beliefs and career aspirations.
8. Community and Connection: Finding community, whether through comedy or other means, was crucial for Jeremy in navigating his journey.
9. Honesty and Vulnerability: Jeremy values honesty and vulnerability, both in his comedy and in his personal life, as tools for connection and healing.
10. Creative Expression: His story highlights the importance of creative expression in processing personal experiences and finding one's voice.

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Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help.

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Brian and Troy sit down with Tracy, a former pastor turned psychologist, to explore her transformative journey from religious leadership to a life of authenticity and self-discovery. Tracy shares her experiences of grappling with faith, the challenges of deconstructing long-held beliefs, and the empowering path to finding her true identity. Join us as we delve into Tracy's story of resilience, the power of community, and the pursuit of living a life true to oneself. Don't miss this insightful conversation that touches on themes of faith, identity, and personal growth.

Key takeaways

• Tracy shares her journey from being a pastor to becoming a psychologist, highlighting her transition from religious leadership to a more authentic life.
• She discusses the challenges of deconstructing her faith, likening it to a Jenga tower where beliefs are gradually removed.
• Tracy emphasises the importance of living authentically and the psychological toll of cognitive dissonance experienced during her time in ministry.
• The episode explores the impact of personal experiences, such as her mission trips and family dynamics, on her evolving beliefs.
• Tracy highlights the role of community and support systems in navigating her deconstruction journey.
• She reflects on the empowering aspects of her new career in psychology, where she continues to help others from a place of strength and authenticity.

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Join the conversation and connect with others here.

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Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help.

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Troy and Brian engage in a deep conversation with Cara Flame, an Australian experiential and creative arts therapist, about her journey from being a teenage fundamentalist to becoming an advocate for those recovering from religious trauma. Cara tells of her experiences in the Esther Foundation, a Christian Fundamentalist organisation, and how it shaped her views on sexuality, shame, and identity. Cara shares her ongoing struggles with the remnants of purity culture and emphasises the importance of listening to one's body and desires. The conversation also touches on the significance of activism in the deconstruction space and Cara's aspirations for the future, including her writing and performance endeavours.

Links:

• Cara Flame's website

Takeaways:

• Cara Flame shares her journey from fundamentalism to therapy.
• The Esther Foundation was a cult-like experience for Cara.
• Cara emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and desires.
• Shame from purity culture continues to affect many individuals.
• Deconstructing beliefs is a lifelong process.
• Cara's book aims to help others navigate their own journeys.
• The impact of fundamentalism on identity is profound and lasting.
• Cara's experiences highlight the need for open discussions about sexuality.
• Activism in the deconstruction space is crucial for change.
• Cara encourages others to embrace their true selves and passions.

---

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Our blog is here.

Join the conversation and connect with others here.

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In this episode, we visit Hillsong's mothership in Baulkham Hills so you don't have to! We unpack the atmosphere, the music, the offering, the supposed miracles, the sermon and the continued exploitation of volunteers. Join us as we reflect on the evolving, yet somehow still familiar landscape of the 'new' Hillsong and its diminishing impact on those of us who have left the faith.

Key takeaways:

1. Atmosphere and Scale: Hillsong's grand scale and corporate feel can be both impressive and overwhelming, reflecting its status as a mega church.
2. Volunteer Involvement: The church relies heavily on volunteers, highlighting the importance of community involvement in its operations.
3. Sermon Analysis: Pastor Robert Ferguson's sermon emphasized movement and miracles, but raised questions about interpretation and relevance for exvangelicals.
4. Cultural Diversity: The diverse congregation at Hillsong showcases the church's broad appeal and the changing demographics of modern Christianity.
5. Community Connection: Despite the large scale, the sense of community and belonging remains a strong draw for attendees.
6. Comparative Reflections: The visit prompted reflections on past church experiences and the evolution of evangelical practices.
7. Emotional Responses: The service evoked a range of emotions, from nostalgia to skepticism, among those familiar with evangelical culture.
8. Impact on Exvangelicals: The experience highlighted the ongoing influence of mega churches and their role in the faith journeys of those who have left.

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Troy and Brian chat with journalist and author Claire Hoffman about her book Sister Sinner, which explores the life and mysterious disappearance of Aimee Semple McPherson, a pioneering figure in American evangelicalism and Pentecostalism. The discussion covers Claire's own upbringing in a transcendental meditation community and then explores the complexities of McPherson's life, her scandalous disappearance, and the impact of fame on religious figures. The conversation also reflects on the nature of celebrity, the challenges of historical narratives in religion, and the importance of embracing the complexities of human experience.

Links:

• Claire Hoffman – Author & Journalist
• Sister, Sinner
• Greetings from Utopia Park

Takeaways

• Claire Hoffman grew up in a transcendental meditation community.
• Amy Semple McPherson was a pioneer of modern evangelicalism.
• The scandal surrounding McPherson's disappearance was unprecedented.
• McPherson's life reflects the complexities of fame and faith.
• The podcast discusses the importance of historical narratives in religion.
• Outrage against public figures often overshadows their contributions.
• Celebrity culture in religion has deep historical roots.
• Hoffman's book aims to present a balanced view of McPherson's life.
• The conversation highlights the role of community in shaping religious leaders.
• Hoffman is working on a novel about a yoga sex cult.

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Brian & Troy used to be loyal megachurch leaders. They’re not anymore. This podcast explores life in and after Christian Fundamentalism.

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Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help.

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