In this episode, host Andrew Pledger interviews Chris Peterman, a Bob Jones University alum and activist who led the Do Right BJU movement. Chris shares his experiences growing up in fundamentalist Christian environments, his realization of his sexual identity, and his awakening to the problems within these institutions, particularly around issues of abuse. The episode delves into Chris's journey from being a conforming student to founding a movement that demanded accountability from Bob Jones University. They discuss the steps leading to the first student-led protest at BJU, the significant impact of the Do Right BJU movement, and the subsequent Grace Report that investigated the university's handling of abuse claims. The conversation highlights the broader influence of fundamentalist institutions on American society and politics.

Do Right BJU Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16oTVkxQ2A/?mibextid=wwXIfr

ABC 20/20 episode on the IFB movement: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL54666D27A074EEC7&si=nlgV8eNVMGlN28K9

Andrew's Links

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In this episode, host Andrew Pledger speaks with Shielagh Clark, a survivor of abuse tied to Bob Jones University and an affiliated church. Shielagh shares her harrowing journey of abuse beginning at age 15, and how she was failed by both the school and her church community. She details her involvement with the Grace Report, the challenges she faced in seeking justice through both criminal and civil courts, and the emotional toll it took on her. Despite numerous setbacks, she found healing and empowerment by speaking out, ultimately launching her own podcast, 'Perverted Justice,' to continue shedding light on abuse and the legal system.

Listen to Perverted Justice

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perverted-justice/id1779806281

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/74QkJScAlSTxncLKCsyxN6?si=c8WSRQvIQcCl9rIn9eQsbA

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:11 Guest Introduction: Sheila Clark

01:37 Sheila's Story: Abuse and Bob Jones University

02:44 The Grace Report and Seeking Validation

08:49 Confronting the Past: Church and Legal Battles

20:25 Legal Proceedings and Challenges

38:52 Reflections and Healing Journey

46:45 Conclusion and Podcast Outro

Andrew's Links

JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

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My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/

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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

Andrew's Links

JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/

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-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

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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.

JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/

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-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

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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

JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

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-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

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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

Andrew's Links: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links

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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

JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

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-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues

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