Drawing on my master’s research, which led to a forthcoming academic book chapter this year, this episode explores the journeys of queer individuals leaving evangelical communities. It looks at how religious trauma shapes their experiences. Leaving a religion which is often labeled as ‘apostasy,’ is far more than a simple decision. It’s a deeply personal process, full of identity struggles, emotional challenges, and social disruption. At the same time, I will share bits of my own story, reflecting on what it was like to leave religion and find my voice.

This episode grew out of a guest lecture I gave at VU Amsterdam and is for anyone who is interested in the personal, psychological, and empowering journey of a religious exit.

I hope this episode will help anyone going through a deconversion journey feel seen, understood, and less alone.

Special thanks to Srdjan Sremac and Lenneke Post for the invitation to give this lecture.

References:

Jafeth Jacobs - Brokenhearted

In this episode, I dive into the concept of queer-friendly Buddhism, exploring how it’s often portrayed in the West versus the reality of queer identities in Buddhist countries. Join me as I reflect on my own meditation journey, while simultaneously unpacking the so-called 'Thai The contrast between Thailand’s reputation as a queer-friendly destination and the complexities queer people face in their everyday lives.

Links I've mentioned within this episode:

Listen to my new single 'P.S. I Love You.'

Episode 'Religious Trauma In a Nutshell.'

Often people ask me why I am still single, or sometimes I ask myself the same question. In this episode, I'll delve into the complexities of modern dating, aiming to uncover shared experiences and hopefully find some common ground. I will also briefly address the current political situation in the Netherlands and discuss the concept of homonationalism, as I believe it is important for our community to be aware of this.

References in this episode:

Todd Baratz: YourDiagnonsense

Alan Downs: The Velvet Rage

Ask me anything: QueerlyHavingIssues

In this episode of Queerly Having Issues, we will dives deep into the intersection of religious trauma and queer theology. After growing up in a non-affirming evangelical environment, I will share how reframing the Christian narrative through a queer lens has been a powerful part of my healing journey. I will introduce the basics of queer theology and queer Christology, discuss key thinkers like Marcella Althaus-Reed and Robert Goss, and reflects on how reimagining Jesus as a radical, justice-seeking outsider can offer hope and healing for queer individuals. Whether you're deconstructing your faith, recovering from religious trauma, or simply curious about how spirituality and queerness can coexist, this episode offers a thoughtful and empowering perspective.

References within this episode:

Marcella Althaus-Reid

Robert Goss

Book on consolation

Ask me anything: Queerly Having Issues

In this second episode I will elaborate on my personal journey, in which the theory of Religious Trauma as an individual experience will become clearer. I would also recommend to listen to the previous episode 'Religious Trauma In a Nutshell', if you haven't already, in order to make sense this one.

References within this episode:

Movie: Prayers for Bobby

James Cohen: Second Adolescence

Todd Baratz: Your Diagnonsense

Ask me anything: Queerly Having Issues

In this first episode of Queerly Having Issues, host Jafeth Jacobs explores the deeply personal and widely relevant topic of religious trauma, especially as it affects LGBTQ+ individuals raised in non-affirming, high-control religious environments.

We unpack the concept of Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS)—a form of psychological harm that can mirror complex PTSD—and dive into the unique challenges faced by queer people who grow up hearing that their identity is sinful, unsafe, or unwelcome.

Drawing from personal experience and academic research, this episode discusses:

• What religious trauma is and how it develops
• Common symptoms including anxiety, depression, and dissociation
• The specific impact of anti-LGBTQ+ theology
• Healing tools like affirming therapy, chosen family, and creative expression

Whether you're deconstructing your faith, questioning your beliefs, or seeking healing after spiritual harm, this episode offers validation, solidarity, and hope.

The 'Brokenhearted' song which I wrote for the queer community, because of the high rates of depression and suicidal tendencies within our community, you can find HERE.

Don't hesitate to ask me anything on the GRAM