Surviving Bob Jones University: A Christian Cult

Listen to more episodes on Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism

In this episode, host Andrew Pledger speaks with Dr. Camille Lewis about her new book 'Klandamentalism.' The conversation delves into the historical and contemporary ties between Christian fundamentalism, white supremacy, and authoritarianism connected to Bob Jones University. They discuss survivor stories, the influence of Bob Jones University on American society, and recent updates about the university, including changes in rules and significant incidents. Dr. Lewis also sheds light on the psychology behind the loyalty to these systems and the societal implications. The episode finishes with reflections on the current socio-political climate and recommendations for further action.

Order Klandamentalism: https://www.amazon.com/Klandamentalism-Intersection-Revivalism-Supremacy-University/dp/1638041563

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

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Dr. Camille Lewis attended BJU in the 90s, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She joined the faculty at BJU and completed her Ph.D. from Indiana University. In 2007, she left BJU after being given an ultimatum: either resign or permit the BJU daycare to spank her 2-year-old son. She chose her son. In this episode, she shares five facts BJU does not want you to know.

She is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. She holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University in Rhetorical Studies with a minor in American Studies. Her book, 'Romancing the Difference: Kenneth Burke, Bob Jones University, and the Rhetoric of Religious Fundamentalism', was a scholarly attempt to stretch the boundaries of both Kenneth Burke’s rhetorical theory on tragedy and comedy as well as stretch conservative evangelical’s separatist frames. Her second book, 'White Nationalism and Faith: Statements and Counter-Statements', tracks the religious arguments for and against white nationalism in America since the Civil War. She is currently working on a book entitled Klandamentalism. After nearly twenty years in the classroom, Camille is thrilled to be teaching Rhetoric & Strategy, Argumentation, Rhetorical Criticism, Great Speeches, and Public Speaking at Furman. (from Furman’s website)

Follow Camille's blog WutBJU

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Dr. Camille Lewis attended BJU in the 90s, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She joined the faculty at BJU and completed her Ph.D. from Indiana University. In 2007, she left BJU after being given an ultimatum: either resign or permit the BJU daycare to spank her 2-year-old son. She chose her son. In this episode, she provides her expertise and experience on the teachings, theology, and heresies of BJU.

She is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. She holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University in Rhetorical Studies with a minor in American Studies. Her book, 'Romancing the Difference: Kenneth Burke, Bob Jones University, and the Rhetoric of Religious Fundamentalism', was a scholarly attempt to stretch the boundaries of both Kenneth Burke’s rhetorical theory on tragedy and comedy as well as stretch conservative evangelical’s separatist frames. Her second book, 'White Nationalism and Faith: Statements and Counter-Statements', tracks the religious arguments for and against white nationalism in America since the Civil War. She is currently working on a book entitled Klandamentalism. After nearly twenty years in the classroom, Camille is thrilled to be teaching Rhetoric & Strategy, Argumentation, Rhetorical Criticism, Great Speeches, and Public Speaking at Furman. (from Furman’s website)

Follow Camille's blog WutBJU

Listen to the Surviving BJU Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Other Platforms

Andrew's Links

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

Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links

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

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Listen to Beyond BJU HERE

Dr. Camille Lewis attended BJU in the 90s, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She joined the faculty at BJU and completed her Ph.D. from Indiana University. In 2007, she left BJU after being given an ultimatum: either resign or permit the BJU daycare to spank her 2-year-old son. She chose her son. In this episode, she provides an overview of the history of Bob Jones University.

She is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. She holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University in Rhetorical Studies with a minor in American Studies. Her book, 'Romancing the Difference: Kenneth Burke, Bob Jones University, and the Rhetoric of Religious Fundamentalism', was a scholarly attempt to stretch the boundaries of both Kenneth Burke’s rhetorical theory on tragedy and comedy as well as stretch conservative evangelical’s separatist frames. Her second book, 'White Nationalism and Faith: Statements and Counter-Statements', tracks the religious arguments for and against white nationalism in America since the Civil War. She is currently working on a book entitled Klandamentalism. After nearly twenty years in the classroom, Camille is thrilled to be teaching Rhetoric & Strategy, Argumentation, Rhetorical Criticism, Great Speeches, and Public Speaking at Furman. (from Furman’s website)

Follow Camille's blog WutBJU

Listen to the Surviving BJU Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Other Platforms

Andrew's Links

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

Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links

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

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Listen to 'Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Other Platforms

Join Andrew Pledger as he exposes Bob Jones University's dark history and teachings while amplifying other survivors’ stories. BJU is a fundamentalist college with its roots in white supremacy and is known for its culture of indoctrination, conformity, and control. The university's influence extends beyond its campus, impacting Christian schooling, politics, Biblical counseling, and evangelical Christianity. The school also serves as a hub for churches, schools, and camps that spread its abusive teachings and practices. Listen to the experiences of survivors from BJU and its affiliated ministries. 

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Listen to more survivor's stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

Join Andrew Pledger as he speaks with survivors who have endured harm at Bob Jones University, a fundamentalist college known for its strict regulations and emphasis on indoctrination, conformity, and control. The influence of BJU extends far beyond its gates, serving as the hub for numerous churches, schools, and camps operated by BJU graduates that continue to propagate harmful teachings and controlling dynamics. This podcast provides a platform for survivors to share their experiences at BJU and its affiliated organizations. - Subscribe to stay updated - Premiering early 2024

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In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the impact of fundamentalism on society as a whole, shining a light on the negative consequences that arise from rigid and uncompromising belief systems. I also share some final thoughts in the finale.

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In this episode, I speak with Eric Skwarczynski about Christian's reactions when survivors speak up. Eric hosts the Preacher Boys Podcast, a platform for brave survivors to share their stories of physical, mental, and sexual abuse within the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement. He comes on the show to share his opinions on common responses he's heard toward survivors speaking up. One example we use is a post from BJU grad Shelly Hamilton which is linked here.

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In this episode, we will hear from survivors who have found healing and hope after leaving Bob Jones University. BJU is a fundamentalist Christian college with a controversial history, and our guests will share their personal journeys of overcoming the trauma and abuse they experienced while attending the university. Through their stories, we will learn about the challenges they faced, the ways in which they have found healing, and the support systems that have helped them along the way. This is a powerful and inspiring conversation about resilience, growth, and the power of community in the face of adversity.

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I created a summary of my analysis of BJU from the previous episode and I sent it to two cult experts. The cult experts are Rachel Bernstein LMFT and Daniella Mestyanek Young. Rachel Bernstein, therapist, and renowned cult expert shares her insights on Bob Jones University. She is the host of the “IndoctriNation” podcast which covers cults, manipulators, and systems of control. For 30 years, she has helped former cult members and those who have loved ones in cults and highly manipulative relationships. Rachel has helped people from over 300 cults throughout her career. She provides individual counseling, family counseling, and, when possible, group therapy for former cult members. She also helps families trying to reach out to their loved ones in the cult. Listen to the IndoctriNation Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

Daniella Mestyanek Young is an American author and speaker who was raised in the religious sex cult, Children of God. She later served as an intelligence officer for the US Army for over six years, making the rank of Captain, and became one of the first women in US Army history to conduct deliberate ground combat operations when she volunteered to serve on a Female Engagement Team and received the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. Daniella lives with her husband and daughter in Maryland and holds a Master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the Harvard Extension School.

Buy her memoir Uncultured: https://www.amazon.com/Uncultured-Memoir-Daniella-Mestyanek-Young/dp/1250280117

Follow her on TikTok to learn her 10 part definition of a cult: https://www.tiktok.com/@daniellamestyanekyoung

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