Host Andrew Pledger explores the impact of Christian fundamentalism, particularly at Bob Jones University (BJU), by interviewing of Rebekah Knauf, a survivor who attended and graduated from BJU from 2015-2018. Their discussion covers numerous topics, including restrictive religious environments, mental health struggles, the enforced modesty culture, and the systemic victim-blaming within fundamentalist circles. Rebekah reveals her experiences at religious camps, the challenges posed by gender discrimination, and her journey towards healing and becoming a mental health therapist.

Get in touch with Rebekah: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/rebekah-knauf-greenville-sc/1061205?msockid=283292d6e0726fb2139f824ce15e6e47

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In this episode of Beyond BJU, host Andrew Pledger interviews Stephanie, who shares her experiences growing up in an Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church pastor’s family. Stephanie reveals her struggles with spiritual, physical, and emotional neglect and abuse, detailing the severe conflicts between her parents that marked her childhood. She discusses her life-changing experiences at The Wilds camp and the subsequent employment challenges she faced there. Stephanie also recounts a surprising encounter with Jim Berg at Bob Jones University, which provided a complex view of influential figures within the IFB system. She concludes by sharing insights into her healing journey and emphasizes the importance of feeling loved through safety and setting boundaries. Stephanie's story is a powerful testament to reclaiming one’s voice and finding true peace beyond fundamentalism.

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In this powerful episode, Sheri Cotuna shares her harrowing experience of sexual abuse while a student at Bob Jones University and the subsequent mishandling of her case by the university administration. Sheri is featured in GRACE's investigation report of Bob Jones University. In the episode, she recounts her traumatic encounter, the dismissive and shaming responses from university officials, and the lack of support and justice. She highlights the systemic issues within the institution, touching upon the broader pattern of abuse cover-ups and the school's harmful teachings on accountability and counseling. Despite the trauma and abuse, Sheri's story is a beacon of hope and advocacy, urging other survivors to seek real help and challenge the system.

10 years after GRACE abuse report, survivors fear too little has changed at Bob Jones (RNS): https://religionnews.com/2024/12/05/10-years-after-bob-jones-grace-abuse-report-survivors-fear-too-little-has-changed/

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In this clip, I announce a break and the outsourcing of editing for recorded episodes of season two. I express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported and listened, especially the courageous survivors who shared their stories. I appreciate your continued support on Patreon to expedite the episode releases and wish everyone a wonderful holiday season. See you next season!

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Today marks the 10th anniversary of the Grace Report, which investigated Bob Jones University's mishandling of sexual abuse claims. In this episode, I share previously unreleased audio files that reveal the harmful ‘counseling’ by Jim Berg. These files were originally tapes that were given to Sheri Cotuna by Berg for further ‘counseling” for her sexual assault. Additionally, I discuss the ongoing issues and changes at Bob Jones University, as highlighted in an article by the Religion News Service. You'll hear raw, unedited sermons and survivor testimonies, so I urge listeners to be cautious as the content can be very triggering.

The GRACE Report: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/35lse6bgrurtf7vcv34jo/20141211GRACEFinalSearchable.pdf?rlkey=87yfiptn589lt6rd44juh8aen&st=aarw6ads&dl=0

RNS article: https://religionnews.com/2024/12/05/10-years-after-bob-jones-grace-abuse-report-survivors-fear-too-little-has-changed/

Reading the GRACE Report episode

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-bju-exposing-fundamentalism/id1705924428?i=1000652516876

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This episode features Dr. Laura Anderson, founder of the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery. Dr. Anderson discusses healing from religious trauma, her book 'When Religion Hurts You,' and the challenges of maintaining relationships post-religion. We address internalized fundamentalism and emphasize setting boundaries and fostering consent, respect, and mutual understanding in healing journeys.

When Religion Hurt You: https://www.amazon.com/When-Religion-Hurts-You-High-Control-ebook/dp/B0BW12SBFC

Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery: https://www.traumaresolutionandrecovery.com/

Andrew's Links

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In this special episode of the Indoctrination podcast, host Rachel Bernstein discusses the aftermath of the election with Andrew Pledger. They share their initial reactions and delve into the impact of the election results on survivors of high-control groups. The conversation explores the emotional turmoil, fear, and triggers associated with the election, highlighting the significance of community and self-care for those affected. Andrew shares his insights from his experiences within the Independent Fundamentalist Baptist movement, drawing parallels between cult dynamics and the current political climate. They emphasize the importance of maintaining personal well-being, fostering genuine connections, and staying grounded amidst uncertainty.

Listen to the IndoctriNation Podcast: https://linktr.ee/indoctrination

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In this episode, Lane White, a transgender individual and a former BJU student, shares his journey of self-discovery. Lane recounts his upbringing in a Baptist household, his experiences at BJU, and the challenges of conforming to its strict rules. He discusses navigating gender identity, coming to terms with his sexuality, and facing expulsion. Lane's story sheds light on the impact of fundamentalism on personal identity, his quest for authenticity, and his resilience in reconciling faith with being LGBTQ.

Jacob’s Ladder (SC LGBTQ+ Resource List) https://www.qrcodechimp.com/page/jacobsladder?v=chk1719766347

Read Lane’s story in BJU and Me: https://www.amazon.com/BJU-Me-Voices-Christian-University/dp/0820361593

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Jay Cozzini shares his journey from an isolated upbringing in Alaska to attending Bob Jones University. Jay offers an insider perspective on the culture at BJU and recounts experiences of exploiting loopholes in their strict rulebook. He reveals the challenges faced as a Calvinist student, details his active role in a silent protest against mishandled abuse cases linked to BJU and highlights the subsequent pushback from the institution. The episode exposes underlying issues of control, racism, and homophobia, advocating for the dismantling of repressive systems.

LGBTQ+ Resources - Jacob's Ladder: https://www.qrcodechimp.com/page/jacobsladder?v=chk1719766347

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Access the FULL EPISODE HERE: https://patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

In this Patreon bonus episode, I discuss the concept of spiritual abuse, delving into my personal journey of discovering and defining it. I share insights on how spiritual abuse manifests, often in high-control religious groups, through controlling language and suppressing individual identity. Drawing from various sources, I offer definitions and examples of spiritual abuse, highlighting its impact on mental health and self-perception. I emphasize the subtlety of spiritual abuse, its coercive nature, and its widespread existence across different religious contexts.

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