Megan Phelps-Roper

Host Megan Phelps-Roper asks J.K. Rowling to respond to pushback from some of her critics. The two also discuss the difficulty of discernment—why it can be so hard to know what’s right.Produced by Andy Mills, Matthew Boll, Megan Phelps-Roper, with special thanks to Candace Mittel Kahn and Emily Yoffe.This show is proudly sponsored by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression. FIRE believes free speech makes free people. Learn more at thefire.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Megan Phelps-Roper, a podcast host and former member of the Westboro Baptist Church, delves into the controversies surrounding J.K. Rowling's views on gender rights. They explore the delicate balance between trans rights and women's rights, the cultural backlash Rowling faced, and how social media amplifies polarized opinions. Phelps-Roper also shares her unique background and how it shapes her perspective on extremism, belief, and the importance of rational discourse in a heated public debate.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Sarah Haider, co-founder of Ex-Muslims of North America, critiques the constraints of religious texts on morality. Megan Phelps-Roper, a former member of the Westboro Baptist Church, opens up about her journey from fervent belief to a secular worldview. Yasmine Mohammed shares her harrowing escape from fundamentalist Islamism and emphasizes women's rights. The conversation unpacks belief, societal norms, and the power of dialogue in navigating personal transformations and challenging oppressive systems.

Megan Phelps-Roper, a social activist and former member of the Westboro Baptist Church, shares her unique insights on the controversies surrounding J.K. Rowling and her impact on gender discourse. The discussion covers how Harry Potter became a focal point in debates around witchcraft and trans rights. They delve into the evolution of online communities, the decline of generosity in public discourse, and the importance of civil conversation. Megan's background provides a fascinating lens through which to explore these complex social dynamics.

Join Roxane Gay, a renowned author and social commentator, Megan Phelps Roper, a former Westboro Baptist Church member turned advocate for kindness, Andy Mills, a captivating journalist, and David Baddiel, a witty comedian and documentarian. They explore the complexities of cancel culture and its implications on accountability and dialogue. The group delves into the potential for forgiveness and personal transformation in the digital age, examining how social media both amplifies voices and fosters outrage, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate discourse.

Megan Phelps-Roper, a thoughtful contributor and friend of the hosts, joins the discussion on the contentious debates surrounding gender and women's rights. They dive into the backlash faced by J.K. Rowling for her views, sparking conversations about the need for civil dialogue. The podcast also explores the evolving landscape of women's sports and medical transition for youth, highlighting the U.S.'s unique stance. With insights from author Helen Lewis, it examines societal pressures, freedom of speech, and the tensions within ongoing gender discourses.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Megan Phelps-Roper, a former member of the Westboro Baptist Church and now a political activist, shares her transformative journey from radical beliefs to embracing empathy and understanding. She delves into the complexities of generational pain and the struggle of reconciling inherited ideologies with personal truths. Megan highlights the emotional turmoil post-belief, the allure of charismatic ideas, and the role of creativity in breaking free from toxicity. Her insights emphasize the importance of kindness and accountability in fostering real dialogue and healing.

Megan Phelps-Roper, a former member of the Westboro Baptist Church and author of "Unfollow," shares her transformative journey from radical beliefs to advocacy for understanding and dialogue. She discusses the emotional challenges of leaving a controversial faith, the psychological impacts of charismatic figures, and the struggle for identity. The conversation touches on the importance of empathy in navigating ideological divides and the role of social media in fostering connection amidst polarization. Megan emphasizes personal responsibility and the power of kindness in bridging gaps between conflicting views.

Megan Phelps-Roper, a former member of the Westboro Baptist Church and author of "Unfollow," shares her compelling journey of leaving a hate-filled environment. She discusses the catalyst for her departure alongside her sister and the emotional fallout with family members. Megan explores themes of empathy, personal growth, and the human capacity for forgiveness, recounting experiences that challenged her former beliefs. She offers insights into overcoming cognitive biases and strategies for engaging in meaningful conversations across deeply rooted disagreements.

Megan Phelps-Roper, a former member of the Westboro Baptist Church and author of "Unfollow," shares her gripping tale of transformation. She recounts her childhood in one of America's most controversial families, highlighting the church's extreme beliefs and practices. Megan discusses the contradiction of her grandfather, Fred Phelps, who advocated civil rights while promoting hate. Her journey from hate to healing reveals the challenges of leaving a restrictive community and embracing empathy, sparking thoughtful conversations about faith and identity.