

Sons of Patriarchy
Peter Bell
What happens when biblical patriarchy, christian nationalism, and a theology of authority and submission become the pillars of a movement? Scores of abuse stories in marriages, schools, churches, families, and more. Though these ideas have filtered throughout the United States for decades, they found a home in Moscow, Idaho, through the ministry and work of Doug Wilson. From there, they have influenced churches across the United States, and across the world. In this series, you'll hear from experts on all aspects of these movements, and the stories of abuse from those who survived. Some are Christian, some are not, but one thing they've got in common? They're finally speaking out. This is their story.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sons-of-patriarchy--6517628/support.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 6, 2025 • 2h 8min
Inside the "Biblical Counseling" Center That is a CULT
Media inquiries: https://www.sonsofpatriarchy.com/contact Patreon: patreon.com/sonsofpatriarchy Website: sonsofpatriarchy.com Donate: https://donorbox.org/sons-of-patriarchy A special episode profiling the allegations brought by survivors against Vision of Hope at Faith Lafayette. Resources: Website: https://hoperestoredcommunity.wordpress.com Contact: https://hoperestoredcommunity.wordpress.com/connect/ Recovery Facebook Group: https://tinyurl.com/csk5xhzp Community Facebook Group: https://tinyurl.com/msbs74fy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoperestored.community/ Public Facebook Page: https://tinyurl.com/m282nc7b Sons of Patriarchy is brought to you by: Producer, Writer, Editor, and Host: Peter Bell Original Music, Sound Design, and Mixing: https://aaronfeeneymusic.com/ Social Media: Sarah Bader Graphic Design: Anonymous Survivors SURVIVORS - THANK YOU, AND MAY YOU BE HEARD.

17 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 2h 15min
The HARM Spiritual Abuse Does to a Jesus Follower
Aimee Byrd, an author and critic of patriarchal movements, joins former OPC members Allison LaReau and Heather Nadreau to discuss the pervasive impact of spiritual abuse. Aimee shares her harrowing experiences of online harassment and institutional betrayal for challenging toxic teachings. Allie recounts unsettling church dynamics, including racism and oppressive parenting practices. Heather highlights her own story of marital abuse and the troubling lack of support for women in her community. Together, they advocate for awareness and healing in the face of such harm.

Dec 1, 2025 • 1h 9min
Canon Press Thinks You're Dumb, Here's How to Fight Back
In this engaging discussion, Nathan Wells, a Moscow, Idaho resident and former member of local CREC communities, shares his firsthand experiences with Christ Church and Logos School. He highlights the aggressive marketing tactics of Canon Press, contrasting them with the hesitance of more traditional Christian voices. The Wells discuss their mixed experiences in the community, community strain caused by polarization, and the implications of performative acts like psalm-singing as a form of culture warfare. This conversation unpacks the complex landscape of faith and marketing.

Nov 29, 2025 • 52min
Rachael Denhollander on the LIES Churches Believe About Abuse
Rachael Denhollander, an attorney and abuse survivor, shares her expertise on how churches handle abuse allegations. She discusses the importance of trauma-informed responses and the misuse of biblical standards like the 'two or three witnesses' argument. Rachael emphasizes the need for independent investigations and outlines the limits of pastoral confidentiality. With a focus on empowering survivors, she debunks misconceptions about reporting and highlights the significance of ethical media representation.

Nov 27, 2025 • 1h 39min
A Minister Asks an 8 Year Old About Touching Herself
Chelsea Gondrez shares her harrowing story of sexual and spiritual abuse within conservative Reformed churches, detailing experiences from childhood questioning about her body to molestation at a church gathering. Alongside her parents, Elaine and Fred Hoffland, they reflect on their struggles against institutional silence and blame. An anonymous guest unveils the toxic culture at Christchurch, highlighting the manipulative teachings of Doug Wilson. This heartfelt conversation illuminates the oppressive dynamics faced by women and urges support for survivors.

Nov 24, 2025 • 1h 12min
Here's Why the CREC is a FALSE Denomination
In this engaging discussion, Jeff Moss, a former CREC minister with over a decade of insider experience, reveals intriguing insights into the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches. He unpacks the CREC's complex hybrid structure and discusses the influence of Doug Wilson on its identity and practices. Jeff also explores doctrinal freedoms, the contentious blend of confessionalism, and unique ordination requirements. Plus, the conversation touches on the CREC’s focus on masculinity and its surprising growth post-COVID, painting a vivid picture of this controversial denomination.

Nov 20, 2025 • 1h 9min
She Was Kidnapped, Used as Free Labor, and the OPC Turned a Blind Eye
Stephanie Cherniowski, a former member of the Neon Reformed Presbyterian Church, shares her harrowing story of abuse and institutional failure. From severe punishment and forced repentance to being kidnapped and imprisoned by church leaders, her testimony reveals a chilling account of manipulation, control, and sexual abuse. She discusses the ongoing trauma and how the church neglected to pursue justice for victims. Advocating for those in patriarchal settings, she emphasizes the importance of seeking safety and healing while holding faith through immense suffering.

Nov 17, 2025 • 1h 45min
The Problem with "Christian" Classical Schools
In this enlightening conversation, Susan Wise Bauer, a renowned historian and educator, joins Jill Wright, a certified K-12 educator with firsthand experience at The Oaks Academy. They tackle the complexities of 'Christian' classical education, debating its true meaning and the risks of using 'classical' as a marketing gimmick. Jill shares her insights on classroom pressures and the impact of patriarchy on school culture, while Susan critiques common misconceptions and calls for authentic educational practices that encourage critical thinking rather than indoctrination.

Nov 13, 2025 • 1h 50min
"I Was Groomed by Tom Garfield at Logos School Moscow"
Jade Miller, a former Logos School student and memoirist, shares her harrowing journey of spiritual abuse, detailing how grooming by teachers impacted her life. She highlights emotional manipulation and the toxic culture under Doug Wilson. An anonymous man reveals his troubling experience within CREC churches, facing moral dilemmas at work, church collusion, and the devastating effects of their gossip network on his mental health. Both guests advocate for prioritizing safety and healing, urging those trapped in such environments to seek freedom and support.

Nov 10, 2025 • 50min
"Southern Chattel Slavery Wasn't That Bad"
Thabiti Anyabwile, a pastor and former Gospel Coalition board member, engages in a thought-provoking dialogue about race and historical narratives in Christianity. He recounts his contentious debates with Doug Wilson regarding Wilson’s portrayal of the antebellum South and its implications for modern racism. Thabiti critiques Wilson’s arguments by examining the Bible’s true stance on slavery and challenges the romanticized views of the South. He encourages listeners to pursue a radical love that acknowledges diversity and seeks genuine community.


