In today’s episode, Olivia is joined once again by Robyn as they continue our Hyles Series and take a hard look at where First Baptist Church of Hammond stands today. After the arrest of Jack Schaap, John Wilkerson became the new pastor — but has anything truly changed? While some claim Wilkerson has a heart for survivors, this episode uncovers unsettling truths that suggest otherwise.

We discuss how Wilkerson has maintained a culture of silence, cover-ups, and continued proximity of predators to vulnerable individuals on campus. Is he a reformer, or just another wolf in sheep’s clothing?

You don’t want to miss this conversation.

Also — if you haven’t yet, be sure to check out Robyn’s book and listen to her full story growing up in this environment and attending Hyles-Anderson College in Season 1, Episode 4. Her personal experience adds powerful context to everything we discuss today.

In this powerful follow-up episode, Alissa returns to share more deeply about her experience with Jack Schaap, the former pastor of First Baptist Church of Hammond. She opens up about the subtle and calculated grooming she endured, the manipulation that blurred boundaries, and the lasting impact it left on her life. Alissa also reflects on where she is today in her healing journey, offering hope and solidarity to other survivors who may feel alone in their stories.

In this episode, Olivia sits down with Amanda—an advocate and survivor you may recognize from the Let Us Prey documentary. Amanda has continued to bravely speak out, shedding light on the abuse and cover-ups within the IFB, particularly at First Baptist Church of Hammond (FBCH), Hyles-Anderson College (HAC), and Hammond Baptist (HB).

Born and raised in this environment, Amanda opens up about what life was really like behind the scenes. She shares disturbing insights into how FBCH operated, including how massive scandals were routinely swept under the rug. From the manipulation in the bus ministry to shocking scare tactics—like the time she was pressured into swallowing live goldfish—Amanda’s story reveals the deeply rooted control and fear used to maintain power.

In this special introduction to our latest series, Olivia sets the stage for an in-depth look at Jack Hyles, his family, and the empire he built at First Baptist Church of Hammond (FBCOH). This episode explores the foundation of his influence, the deep-rooted scandals that shook FBCOH, and the role of organizations like the Christian Law Association (CLA) in protecting churches instead of survivors.

From the shocking cases of Jack Schaap and Dave Hyles to the culture of silence within the IFB, Olivia breaks down the layers of controversy surrounding this powerful institution. Featuring archival clips and firsthand accounts, this episode lays the groundwork for a gripping series that uncovers the truth behind the pulpit.

To conclude The Bethel Files series, Olivia sits back down for Part 2 with Chad Miller. In this powerful episode, Chad and Olivia discuss the full timeline of Bethel, the struggles 17-year-old Chad faced with his mental health at the time, and how abandonment issues continue to impact him today.

Chad shares deeply about his experience at Reclamation Ranch, founded by Jack Peterson—a significant figure in the IFB and Teen Training International (TTI) world. He doesn’t hold back as he details firsthand what life was like at the ranch and the lasting effects it had on him.

The conversation also explores Chad’s journey filming Troubled Teen Industry on HBO Max, including an emotional reunion with another Bethel survivor. He also goes further into the heartbreaking story of Bradley, one of the individuals featured in the documentary.

Don’t miss this raw and eye-opening conclusion to The Bethel Files series.

In the final episode of The Bethel Files series, Olivia sits down with Bethel Boys Academy survivor Chad Miller. Chad shares his journey of being sent to Bethel in Lucedale, Mississippi, at just 17 years old. He opens up about his experiences under the control of founder Herman Fountain, revealing the abusive and manipulative environment that defined his time at the academy.

Chad also discusses key red flags parents should be aware of when considering such facilities and reflects on where he is today. But his story doesn’t end here—Chad wasn’t only sent to Bethel. Stay tuned for part two, where he exposes life at yet another ranch.

All videos & photos in this episode were sourced from:

🔹 BK Productions

🔹 Teen Torture INC

In this powerful continuation of The Bethel Files, Olivia sits down with Bethel Boys survivor Micah, who bravely shares his harrowing journey. Micah reveals the shocking truth of how he was drugged, woke up believing he was headed to Disney, and instead found himself trapped at Bethel. He opens up about the lasting trauma, the intense PTSD he endured, and the therapy that helped him reclaim his life. Micah’s story is one of resilience, courage, and hope—showing that healing is possible even after the darkest of experiences.

In this episode, Olivia sits down with Justin, a survivor of Bethel Boys Academy, to share his story. Justin opens up about his life before Bethel, what led to him being sent there, and the abuse he endured while inside. He also sheds light on what he personally witnessed William Knott do and explains why his mom and cousin ended up moving to Bethel and working there.

Justin’s story is another powerful example of the corruption and mistreatment that took place under Herman Fountain’s leadership. His voice, like so many others, deserves to be heard.

Tune in to hear Justin’s story and help us continue exposing the truth about Bethel Boys Academy.

In this powerful episode, we kick off our new series with guest Dave Bowsher. Dave opens up about his time at Bethel Academy in Lucedale, Mississippi, shedding light on the abuse and trauma he endured. Together, Dave and Olivia discuss the school’s founder, Herman Fountain, the involvement of William Knott, and other facilities that continue to profit off pain and suffering. They also dive into the broader issue of the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI) and explore how we can take action to create stronger laws that protect children from these harmful institutions.

Dave was also featured in Teen Torture Inc. on HBO Max, so be sure to check that out for more insight into the fight against abusive programs.

Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that exposes the reality behind these so-called “reform” programs and what we can do to make a difference.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with a mother-daughter music duo who found their voices not just in song, but in freedom. Once deeply immersed in the fundamentalist world, they share their journey of breaking away—from singing rigid hymns in church to creating music that reflects their true selves. Together, they open up about the struggles of leaving behind legalism, the challenges of rebuilding their faith and identity, and how music became both their refuge and their rebellion. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about breaking free, finding harmony, and reclaiming the melody of life on their own terms.

All right to the music belong to Christiana Miller Music.