Architecture of Abuse

In this update, co-host and attorney Tim Kosnoff reflects on the impact of Architecture of Abuse’s first season. With tens of thousands of downloads and an outpouring of listener responses, the series has become a powerful resource for survivors of child sexual abuse—helping many find the language, courage, and support to take their first steps in speaking out.

Tim shares insights from the feedback he and the team have received, including how the series is resonating both inside and outside the LDS community. He recounts his experience presenting at the Sunstone Conference, where conversations highlighted the urgent need for broader awareness and education.

This update also addresses one of the most pressing listener questions: the existence of a proprietary database of abusers within the LDS Church. Tim explains why it has been kept private, how survivors can inquire about their abuser, and what’s next for the podcast.

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Episode Transcript:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aq8dt93dxnHEfiXX9OGE3wN1auSqxe50/view

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Contribute to the conversation:

➡️ Follow & subscribe to the podcast

➡️ Leave a review & rating

➡️ Follow https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse

➡️ Share the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

When abuse was enabled or hidden by religious institutions, the idea of justice can take on many forms. In this powerful final episode of Season 1, attorney and co-host Tim Kosnoff and legal scholar Marci Hamilton join host Alyssa Grenfell to unpack the legal, cultural, and institutional obstacles survivors face when seeking accountability from the organizations society deems to be the most moral. Together, they explore the heartbreaking realities of delayed disclosure, the role of statute of limitations laws, and the entrenched systems that protect abusers, and Marci shares her experience challenging unconstitutional religious exemptions and leading the national fight to reform child sex abuse laws.

⚠️ This podcast contains discussions about child sexual abuse. Please listen with care.

Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bv-uomyIdCeC9l-IHqLKXWwTGq0epZiD/view

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Visit CHILD USA’s website: https://childusa.org

God vs. the Gavel: Religion and the Rule of Law by Marci A. Hamilton. Cambridge University Press, June 2005. 

Justice Denied: What America Must Do to Protect Its Children by Marci A. Hamilton. Cambridge University Press, April 2012.

Contribute to the conversation by:

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff|

Attorney Tim Kosnoff breaks down what it means to file a legal claim as a survivor of abuse. With over four decades of experience representing victims within institutions like the LDS Church, Tim offers a concrete and reassuring look at what to expect, from overcoming the fear of making the first phone call to the possibility of a settlement. He addresses common myths and fears, explains key legal terms, and clarifies questions around confidentiality, privacy, and control. Most importantly, he emphasizes that you remain in charge—of the pace, the details you share, and the path forward. If you’ve ever considered taking legal action but felt overwhelmed, this episode is a powerful starting point to reclaim your voice, understand your options, and know you’re not alone.

Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1h9c5zyqxSeb8DbJ9Rn-D8tMF5Z-DU9vo/view

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at https://architectureofabuse.com

To discuss a potential claim with Tim, visit https://kosnoff.com

Contribute to the conversation by:

➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit https://kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff

What does healing look like after childhood sexual abuse, especially within systems that have long minimized, moralized, or silenced it? In this episode, we hear from LCSW Malia Burgess, alongside Dr. Julie Hanks and LMFT Natasha Helfer, as well as constitutional law professor, Marci Hamilton, as they unpack the messy, nonlinear, and deeply personal process of healing. From therapy access and cultural shame to Church-imposed repentance and systemic betrayal, this episode names the barriers survivors face, and the hope and power found in reclaiming your story. Hosted by Alyssa Grenfell and Tim Kosnoff.

⚠️ This podcast contains discussions about child sexual abuse. Please listen with care.

Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D8KnbLOe2GaofaaFQJrR6bRg76_6U1TM/view

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Learn more about Encircle at https://encircletogether.org

Contribute to the conversation by:

➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff

This candid Deep Dive with therapist and Encircle’s Director of Clinical Operations, Malia Burgess, takes us on a three-part journey: into the past that shaped us, the present we must reckon with, and the future we’re responsible for building. She begins by unpacking the generational trauma rooted in LDS pioneer mythology and how it impacts the behavior of children and youth in a culture that rewards long-suffering silence. For the present, she offers trauma-informed guidance for parents navigating conversations about bodies, boundaries, and what to do if a child discloses abuse or discomfort. Looking to the future, Malia shares advice on raising resilient children who trust their instincts and know how to say no when it matters. And for both survivors and their caregivers, she discusses what healing can look like across different therapeutic modalities.

Episode Transcript:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T7KO9o_N3masu9PQF9cMfIPmGUrWTuUj/view

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Learn more about Encircle at https://encircletogether.org

Learn more about Malia at https://encircletogether.org/therapy/therapists

Contribute to the conversation by:

➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast

➡️ Leaving a review/rating

➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse

➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff

Episode 5 of Architecture of Abuse discusses how the LDS Church’s teachings around sexuality create a perfect storm for silence and abuse. Hosts Alyssa Grenfell and Tim Kosnoff are joined by sex therapist Natasha Helfer, and expert on undue influence, Dr. Steven Hassan, to examine how members are conditioned from childhood to ignore internal discomfort, how spiritual  hierarchy undermines personal revelation, and how the church often reframes criminal acts as “sins,” blurring the lines between repentance and justice.

Episode Transcript:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lkh9pKHao7S0N_zjj7ryfxGDMKYYi49j/view

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan at https://freedomofmind.com/ and follow him on Instagram https://.instagram.com/cultexpert

Learn more about Natasha Helfer at https://www.natashahelfer.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://instagram.com/natashahelfermft

Contribute to the conversation by:

➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast

➡️ Leaving a review/rating

➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse

➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff

The influence of the LDS Church in Utah can be traced through its methodical rise throughout history: from desert-settling pioneers to modern-day corporate powzerhouse. Attorney Tim Kosnoff, and author and content creator Alyssa Grenfell unpack why the Church’s financial, political, and legal power makes accountability for abuse so elusive in the state of Utah. From the “accident” of their establishment in the wilderness of the West, to the “design” of the Church’s parallel systems of establishment, Tim and Alyssa detail the undeniable influence of the “Mormon Corridor” within the USA.

Episode Transcript:

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Contribute to the conversation by:

➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff

In this exploration of Utah and Church history, co-hosts Alyssa Grenfell and veteran attorney Tim Kosnoff are joined by historian and executive producer Lindsay Hansen Park to trace the LDS Church’s origins through a stark and unflinching lens that reveals how romanticized origins can obscure systemic harm. Together, they examine how secrecy, outlaw theology, and institutional power became woven into the very foundation of the LDS Church and the state of Utah, establishing a blueprint that still shapes the Church’s response to abuse today.

From Joseph Smith’s secret plural marriages to the systemic use of “sacredness” as a shield for silence, Park offers a powerful historical critique, connecting early practices to modern consequences. The episode dissects polygamy, theocratic control, and cultural myths of martyrdom, while exploring how patriarchal reverence and the suppression of discomfort have enabled a long-standing architecture of abuse.

Episode Transcript:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NjOXgop_4F3Nl0CLx2EOIhY9NWzx7HMt/view

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Listen to Lindsay Hansen Park’s podcast, Year of Polygamy: https://www.yearofpolygamy.com/

Contribute to the conversation by:

➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast

➡️ Leaving a review/rating

➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse

➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff

Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips

Producer | Lizzy Bean

Researcher | Emily Sellers

Co-host Alyssa Grenfell explores how the LDS Church's obsession with outward righteousness creates a culture that silences victims, enables abuse, and even erodes mental health. From standards for clothing and appearances, to the pressure of being “worthy”, this conversation confronts the Church’s behavioral theology head-on. Featuring insights from therapist Dr. Julie Hanks, sex therapist Natasha Helfer, and expert on undue influence, Dr. Steven Hassan, this deep dive unpacks how scrupulosity, image control, and “thought-stopping” tactics keep members obedient—and how that shapes a community's response to trauma.

Episode Transcript:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1J0ohjeX10z-XcijwjOzIThLo_gG3Yes0/view?usp=sharing

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Learn more about Dr. Julie Hanks’ work at https://www.drjuliehanks.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://instagram.com/drjuliehanks

Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan at https://freedomofmind.com/ and follow him on Instagram https://.instagram.com/cultexpert

Learn more about Natasha Helfer at https://www.natashahelfer.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://instagram.com/natashahelfermft

Contribute to the conversation by:

> Following/subscribing to the podcast

> Leaving a review/rating

> Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse

> Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff

Co-host Tim Kosnoff reconnects with therapist and author Dr. Julie Hanks, who shares an emotional update: after years of faithful participation she has stepped away from activity in the LDS Church. In her own words, Dr. Hanks explains how increasing scrutiny from Church leadership and coordinated complaints from the public made her feel unsafe, unsupported, and ultimately pushed out. Diving into the power dynamics at play when institutions resist critique, Julie reflects on the cost of being “ahead” of the institution, the pain of losing community, the resolve it takes to walk away, and that her work continues with or without institutional approval.

Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XJB5bi7ZItLRpC47FNs5XM0U-Fc1xAAI/view?usp=sharing

Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com

Learn more about Dr. Julie Hanks’ work at https://www.drjuliehanks.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://instagram.com/drjuliehanks

Contribute to the conversation by:

> Following/subscribing to the podcast

> Leaving a review/rating

> Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse

> Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions

All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice.

Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff