In this discussion, Tony Baker, former COO at New Saint Andrews College, shares troubling insights about mismanagement and abuse cover-ups within the institution. His wife, Kimberly Baker, adds valuable context from her experiences in their community. They explore the emotional toll of social exclusion, the hidden harms in community growth, and the importance of accountability in church leadership. The conversation delves into how strict religious norms led to manipulation and trauma, advocating for spiritual freedom and the need for open dialogue.
Tony Baker's alarming experiences reveal systemic issues at New Saint Andrews College related to management and allegations of abuse.
Kalina's narrative highlights the oppressive courtship culture within the church that contributes to forced marriages and silencing of women's voices.
Callie Cole's story emphasizes the critical need for accountability and awareness regarding power dynamics and grooming in church environments.
Deep dives
Content Warning for Sensitive Topics
The episode begins with a content warning highlighting the sensitive nature of the discussion, which includes topics related to emotional, spiritual, and sexual abuse. The podcast encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being and offers resources for support if needed. Acknowledging the difficulty of these subjects, the hosts empathize with potential triggers for the audience. They affirm the importance of taking a break or reaching out for help as a necessary measure of self-care.
Tony Baker's Experience at New St. Andrews
Tony Baker shares his journey to New St. Andrews in Moscow, Idaho, after being unaware of its controversial connections to Doug Wilson and Christ Church. Initially excited about the Master of Fine Arts program, he soon faced issues, including a poorly managed curriculum and unprepared faculty. Complaints from students led to leadership changes, indicating ongoing systemic problems within the school's operations. His background in operations gave him an insight into mismanagement, causing concern for both the students and the integrity of the institution.
Concerns About Institutional Abuse
Tony reflects on his growing awareness of potential abuse within the community, including unsettling interactions during baptism events and warnings from church members about ongoing misconduct. He recounts witnessing troubling dynamics and becomes increasingly cautious for the welfare of his family. A colleague's alarming comments about rampant abuse prompt Tony to be vigilant, suggesting that the issues are deeper and more pervasive than he initially thought. His experiences at New St. Andrews highlight a culture that seems to overlook serious allegations against its leadership.
The Stance on Reporting Abuse
Tony describes a specific incident where a girl reported abuse to her counselor, yet faced resistance when suggesting that it should be reported to the authorities. He emphasizes the seriousness of child safety and the obligation to report abuse, contrasting it with the church's reluctance to involve law enforcement. His confrontation with Ben Merkel about this situation reveals a troubling pattern of prioritizing church authority over legal accountability. This incident becomes emblematic of the systemic hesitance to expose or address abuse within the institution.
Kalina's Journey and Marital Struggles
Kalina shares her experiences of being drawn into a church community at a young age, leading to her marriage at 16 to a man significantly older than her. Encouraged by church leaders, the courtship culture left her feeling coerced into a life-altering decision. Once married, she faced emotional and substance abuse from her husband, while church authorities failed to address her pleas for help or accountability. Her struggles underscore how patriarchal practices and pressure to conform can silence legitimate concerns and perpetuate cycles of abuse.
Callie's Story of Grooming and Control
Callie Cole recounts growing up in a heavily involved Christ Church family, where older men held authority and influence over the youth, often inappropriately. Throughout her schooling, she faced manipulation and grooming by a teacher, with little guidance from the church regarding acceptable boundaries. When she finally spoke out about her experiences, she was met with hostility and threats from church leaders aimed at maintaining their power and reputation. Her journey highlights the critical importance of recognizing and addressing abuses of power within seemingly supportive communities.
