• Traumageddon
    Jun 7 2024
    Managing thick hair is no small feat, and we've got some hilarious stories to prove it! Join us for a lively chat that starts with some humor around Pride Month and quirky profile pictures, but swiftly transitions into relatable hair woes and amusing anecdotes. However, the episode takes a serious turn as we tackle the overuse of the term "trauma," its impact on genuine experiences, and the importance of trauma-informed teaching.

    The conversation deepens as we explore the evolving understanding of trauma and autism diagnoses over the past two decades. We share personal stories and insights into how these diagnoses have been validated and the changes in terminology, such as the removal of Asperger's. The discussion also reflects on the stigma surrounding autism and learning disabilities and the improvements in diagnostic tools and awareness today. Along the way, we delve into the emotional and complex family situations involving accusations of abuse, addressing immediate reactions, justice, and societal views on punishing sexual predators.

    Online negativity versus real-world kindness—there’s a stark difference, and we have the anecdotes to prove it. This episode wraps up with a thoughtful discussion on repeated traumatic experiences, exposure therapy, and the ever-growing toxicity of online environments. We share a hopeful outlook on younger generations distancing themselves from these toxic spaces and end with exciting plans to enhance listener engagement through social media and email. Don't miss out on our unique sign-off and the chance to connect with us directly!

    Thanks for listening!

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Education vs. Butker
    May 24 2024


    Controversy erupted at Benedictine College's graduation, and we pull no punches dissecting the speech that sparked heated debates. The address, which seemed to diminish women's roles to domesticity, despite their academic achievements, gets a critical analysis from us. We respect personal choices in homemaking, but we won't shy away from challenging views that threaten to undermine women's broader aspirations. Plus, we don't hold back on discussing the delicate interplay between Catholic doctrine on birth control and the responsibility of public speech.

    Turning our gaze to the many cracks in the public education system, we expose the urgent need for literacy and self-education. Stories of individuals who've taken their learning into their own hands despite systemic failures underscore our conversation. We confront the stark realities of special education tracks, the weight of parental expectations, and the debilitating pressure of standardized tests—like the dreaded STAR tests in Texas. Ending on a personal note, I recount the disappointment of a lackluster university commencement, which left families like mine feeling undervalued after our investment in education. Join us for a candid exploration of how learning should truly prepare us for the journey ahead.

    Thanks for listening!

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Indoctrination Podcast with Rachel Bernstein, Part 2
    May 17 2024
    Stepping out of the shadows of a cult's influence is a journey fraught with challenges and triumphs; Rachel and Liz are testaments to this arduous path toward freedom. Our latest episode is a riveting exploration of their escape and the myths and stereotypes about women that often underpin such oppressive environments. These sisters, one a mother and movement specialist from Southern California, the other a grandmother and entrepreneur from Oklahoma, lay bare their hearts, detailing the critical moments that propelled them to seek a life beyond the cult's confines. Their stories are not just about breaking free but also the healing that follows, illustrating the potent blend of vulnerability and strength that has shaped their new beginnings.

    The complexities of leaving a cult do not end at the decision to walk away; the aftermath is a labyrinth of emotional and legal challenges that many survivors face. In this episode, Rachel and Liz lead us through the dark corridors of fear and intimidation that loom over those who dare to leave. From confronting developmental delays to facing the backlash of a community that once promised safety, they share their personal experiences with a candor that is as enlightening as it is heart-wrenching. Their insights offer a deeper understanding of the psychological barriers that cult survivors must overcome and the resilience required to rebuild a life grounded in autonomy and self-discovery.

    This conversation is not just about the shadows but also the light at the end of the tunnel—the reclaiming of body positivity, personal identity, and the simple yet revolutionary act of donning a bikini for the first time. Rachel and Liz's empowering narratives underscore the transformative power of questioning norms and forging an individual path. As they articulate the value of ongoing healing and the freedom to choose one's beliefs, their stories are a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to step into the unknown and the profound personal growth that awaits on the other side. Join us for an episode that celebrates the indomitable human spirit and the boundless possibilities that can emerge from the depths of adversity.

    Thanks for listening!

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • IndoctriNation with Rachel Bernstein, Liz and Rachel Part 1
    May 3 2024

    Embarking on a path to freedom demands courage, a truth Rachel Holt and Liz Humble know all too well. As survivor sisters, they share their gripping tales of escaping the IFB cult, navigating the aftershocks of a controlled upbringing, and the liberating struggle towards healing. Their book, "The King James Virgins," serves as a backdrop to a candid conversation that also spills into their podcast, "Sisters Declassified Life Survival Guide," where they fuse life lessons with actionable advice for those walking similar paths to recovery.

    Parenting after cult life presents an intricate dance between providing structure and fostering independence. The sisters delve into their personal experiences, discussing the critical role of supportive partners and the importance of family in reassembling a life once dictated by oppressive control. Their stories of raising children in the shadow of their past resonate deeply, offering a beacon to others striving to break free from generational cycles of restriction.

    In an atmosphere where trust is often a casualty of betrayal, Rachel and Liz courageously confront the darker chapters of their past. They engage in a raw reflection on abuse, the complexities of finding trustworthy therapeutic support, and the power of owning one's narrative. Their journey is a testament to resilience, a guidepost for navigating the murky waters of trauma, and an invitation to listeners to embark on their own journey of healing, bolstered by the strength found in honesty, humility, and sisterhood.

    Thanks for listening!

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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Mailbag
    Apr 19 2024

    Every morning holds the promise of a fresh start, and today we're embracing that with open hearts as we chat about the delicate balance of caring for our loved ones, both human and animal. We love the mornings

    Turning the page, we discuss a recent email. We
    confront the vexing question of youth representation in politics head-on. My roommate's 26th birthday becomes a launchpad to dissect the hurdles young individuals face in this arena. We peel back the layers of political engagement and mental health, wrestling with the conundrum of choosing the least worrisome option during elections. Our dialogue stretches from the deeply personal to the broadly political, as we recount our own awakenings and advocate for an active role in the process, no matter how flawed it may seem.

    In the home stretch, we spotlight the significance of making an informed vote and the transformative potential of local politics. From organizations like Run for Something that champion the rise of young, diverse voices, to the unavoidable influence of wealth in political races, we're unpacking it all. We don't shy away from heated topics, diving into the evolving landscape of education legislation and women's rights debates. And to cap it all off, we share a slice of our personal lives—the triumphs and challenges—as we invite you to join our community of listeners navigating the intricate web of life, family, and the society we're all a part of.

    Thanks for listening!

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Upcoming Events with Expert Rachel Bernstein
    Apr 15 2024
    Ever wonder how individuals heal and regain control after leaving a cult? Join us, Rachel and Liz, as we engage in a thought-provoking series with Rachel Bernstein, the esteemed therapist and cult recovery expert. In the course of our candid conversation, we illuminate the paths to recovery for those who've been trapped in coercive systems. Our discussion, inspired by our forthcoming book, interweaves personal insights with professional strategies that Bernstein has honed throughout her career. It's an encounter brimming with empathy and understanding, tailored for anyone eager to comprehend the complexities of cult indoctrination and the resilience of the human spirit.

    Get set for a riveting exploration into the realms of psychological liberation and personal growth. We're ecstatic to share our collaboration with the Indoctrination podcast, as Bernstein, an authority on cult dynamics, lends her voice to our narrative. Delve into the episodes airing on April 24th and May 1st, where we dissect the intricate aspects of cult influence and the tools necessary for protection and healing. Featuring resources from Bernstein's wealth of knowledge, these shows are not just a complement to our book but a treasure trove for survivors, therapists, and anyone intrigued by the human capacity to overcome manipulation and reclaim freedom.

    Thanks for listening!

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    3 mins
  • Sexual Abuse Awareness and Introducing 'Wins and Fails'
    Apr 5 2024

    We talk briefly about the eclipse and go into Sexual abuse awareness month.

    We discuss versions and try to help start a conversation about Sexual Abuse and wrap our how to and Define this around this topic

    Newest portion begins with wins and losses from the week

    Thanks for listening!

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    43 mins
  • Principles in Practice Balancing Beliefs and Civic Duty
    Mar 22 2024

    As a child, I never imagined that the values instilled in me would one day be the compass guiding my every decision. Today, we embark on a profound exploration of those very principles, diving into the evolution of personal values from the innocence of youth to the complexity of adulthood. Together, we navigate the delicate balance between being true to ourselves and exercising kindness, and I'll share my anecdotes on how the values we cherish unfold in our everyday actions.

    Join me as we confront the civic responsibilities tied intrinsically to our values, where the act of voting isn't just a right, but a reflection of our beliefs in motion. I'll recount tales from the polling booth that highlight the weight of local elections and the power inherent in every vote cast. Through discussions on loyalty, knowledge, and access to information, we uncover how these elements shape our political landscape and why engaging in the electoral process is a commitment to our principles. Listen closely as we dissect the influence of personal values on voting behavior and their broader implications in our lives.

    Real talk: life is fleeting, and how we manage our time is the truest indicator of what we value. In this foray into the practical applications of our principles, we tackle the discipline of time management and the ethics of consumption choices. From considering the meaningful allocation of resources to assessing the media we consume, our conversation traverses the importance of direct communication as we age. We also face the tough issues, including the complex relationship many have with food, and the challenges posed by corporate practices, supply chain woes, and the call for fair wages. This episode isn't just about reflection; it's a call to action for living a life aligned with what's truly important to us.

    Thanks for listening!

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    55 mins