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🎙️ Episode Overview
A survivor's powerful journey from victimization to advocacy, featuring Sandy Phillips Kirkham, author of "Let Me Prey Upon You".

🚨 Content Warning
This episode contains discussions of clergy sexual abuse and its impact on young people. While handled sensitively, listener discretion is advised.

The Story
At 16, Sandy Phillips Kirkham thought she had found a spiritual mentor in her youth pastor. Instead, she found herself trapped in a five-year nightmare of manipulation and abuse, masked behind the facade of religious guidance. Now, decades later, Sandy breaks her silence in this powerful episode, taking us through her journey from a trusting teenager to a fierce advocate for change.

But this isn't just a story about trauma – it's a testament to resilience. After years of carrying this burden alone, Sandy didn't just confront her abuser; she transformed her pain into purpose. Her book "Let Me Prey Upon You" rips away the veil of secrecy that often protects religious institutions, exposing how predators exploit faith to access their victims.

Whether you're a parent, religious leader, or someone grappling with their own trauma, Sandy's insights could help protect the next vulnerable teen or guide another survivor toward healing.

Chapters
(0:000) - Sandy's Story of Clergy Sexual Abuse
(12:47) - Manipulative Clergy Abuser's Control Tactics
(19:19) - Grooming, Betrayal and Consequences of Clergy Abuse
(25:27) - Church Responses to Clergy Abuse
(38:19) - Rebuilding Faith After Betrayal
(42:27) - Healing and Advocacy After Abuse
(52:18) - Gratitude for Enlightening Candid Conversation

Highlights
(06:48) Uncomfortable Progression of Physical Intimacy (23 Seconds)
(09:42) Inappropriate Relationship With Pastor (43 Seconds)
(16:15) Elders' Instructions in Church Scandal (44 Seconds)
(18:40) Sexual Misconduct Scandal Unfolds (82 Seconds)
(25:27) Exposing a Pastor's Dark Past (46 Seconds)
(32:23) Victims Seeking Validation From Churches (78 Seconds)
(39:31) Writing the Book (67 Seconds)
(47:16) Avoid Texting Between Adults and Children (55 Seconds)

Resources & Action Steps

Immediate Help:
- Support Resources:
  - National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800.656.HOPE (4673)
  - Online Chat: online.rainn.org
  - Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  - SNAP Network: snapnetwork
  - In an Emergency call or text 911
Prevention Guidelines:
- Two-adult rule for youth activities
- Transparent communication policies
- Background check requirements
- Social media and messaging protocols
Further Reading:
- "Let Me Prey Upon You" by Sandy Phillips Kirkham
- Hope of Survivors: https://www.thehopeofsurvivors.org/
- COCA - Council on Child Abuse: https://www.cocachild.org/

If you're struggling, please reach out for support. You are not alone.

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Connect with our Hosts:
Stacey: https://www.instagram.com/staceymgrant/
Mark: https://www.instagram.com/mark_lubragge_onair/

➡️ More about the guest: Sandy Phillips Kirkham
Website: www.Sandyphillipskirkham.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandy.phillipskirkham/
Book: "Let Me Prey Upon You" by Sandy Phillips Kirkham: https://www.amazon.com/Let-Prey-Upon-You-Ministers/dp/1734195207

American Sunrise - January 15th, 2026