I was a Teenage Fundamentalist. An Exvangelical podcast.

This is it, the final episode of IWATF! Join us as we reflect on five transformative years of storytelling, growth, and community. In this farewell episode, we share our personal journeys, the impact of the podcast, and our plans for the future. With gratitude and a touch of nostalgia, we say goodbye, leaving behind a legacy of connection and understanding. Thank you for being part of our story. TakeawaysThe podcast served as a platform for personal growth and reflection for the hosts, allowing them to share their stories and connect with listeners.The decision to end the podcast was mutual and came from a place of readiness to move on to new chapters in life.The hosts expressed gratitude for the community and the impact the podcast had on listeners, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences.The podcast will remain accessible, allowing new listeners to discover and benefit from the stories shared over the years.The hosts reflected on the challenges and rewards of podcasting, acknowledging the hard work and dedication it required.Personal beliefs and spiritual journeys were explored, highlighting the diverse paths each host has taken since leaving fundamentalism.The episode included a dedication to individuals who influenced the hosts' journeys, wishing them well and hoping for positive change.The hosts discussed their future plans, focusing on meaningful work, personal well-being, and continued growth.The importance of community and connection was a recurring theme, with the hosts valuing the relationships formed through the podcast.The episode concluded with heartfelt thanks to listeners, volunteers, and each other, celebrating the journey and the impact made together. ---We're on YouTube here.Want more? Check out our exclusive Patreon episodes here.Our blog is here.Join the conversation and connect with others here.The transcript of this episode is here.All our other links are here. Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Explore the intriguing history of speaking in tongues, from personal journeys to its evolution in Christian practices. Discover how cultural pressures shaped individual experiences, and uncover the differences between biblical interpretations. Delve into historical roots within the Catholic Church and the shifts in early Pentecostal beliefs. Learn about connections to ecstatic vocalization in various religions and the neuroscience behind the phenomenon. This discussion challenges perspectives while highlighting the emotional significance of tongues.

In this episode, Troy and Brian welcome new co-host Sharon Madere, discussing her background and experiences with Last Days Ministries. The conversation explores the evolution of the Jesus People Movement, the financial dynamics of Keith Green's ministry, and the shift from idealism to conservatism within evangelicalism. They delve into the impact of Trump on American politics, the role of nationalism, and the importance of leadership transitions. The episode also touches on the global reaction to American politics, the need for economic change, and the historical context of current events, concluding with a discussion about the future of the podcast.TakeawaysThe podcast welcomes Sharon Madere as a new co-host.Reflections on the Jesus People Movement's origins and evolution.Keith Green's ministry had significant financial dynamics.The shift from idealism to conservatism in evangelicalism is notable.Trump's impact on American politics is profound and concerning.Nationalism has crept into modern evangelicalism.Leadership transitions are crucial for the future of movements.Economic disparities may lead to significant social change.Empathy and decency are being challenged in current politics.The podcast aims to highlight positive stories amidst challenges. ---We're on YouTube here.Want more? Check out our exclusive Patreon episodes here.Our blog is here.Join the conversation and connect with others here.The transcript of this episode is here.All our other links are here. Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Troy and Brian welcome Sarah Steel, the brilliant host and creator of the award-winning podcast Let's Talk About Sects. Sarah delves into the complex world of high control groups and cults, sharing insights from her extensive research and personal interviews. Together, they explore the psychological impact of cults, the challenges of leaving such groups, and the importance of storytelling in understanding these experiences. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that sheds light on the hidden dynamics of coercive control and the resilience of those who break free.Links:Let's Talk About SectsDo As I Say: How cults control, why we join them, and what they teach us about bullying, abuse and coercionKey takeaways:Sarah Steel, host of "Let's Talk About Sects," explores the dynamics of high control groups and cults, emphasizing the importance of understanding coercive control.The episode highlights the psychological impact of cults on individuals, including challenges with identity, autonomy, and critical thinking.Sarah shares insights into the process of leaving cultic groups, noting the complexity and difficulty of breaking free from such environments.The discussion underscores the power of storytelling in destigmatizing the experiences of former cult members and raising awareness about coercive control.Listeners are encouraged to explore resources like Cult Information and Family Support and the International Cultic Studies Association for further understanding and support. ---We're on YouTube here.Want more? Check out our exclusive Patreon episodes here.Our blog is here.Join the conversation and connect with others here.The transcript of this episode is here.All our other links are here. Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we delve into the unique upbringing of comedian Jeremy Alder, who was raised in a fundamentalist Christian household. Jeremy shares his experiences of being homeschooled in Texas by missionary parents who distrusted mainstream culture, leading to a childhood without TV or the internet. He reflects on the challenges and unexpected benefits of such a sheltered upbringing, and how it shaped his worldview and comedic voice. Join us as Jeremy candidly discusses his journey from a deeply religious environment to finding his own path in comedy and life.Jeremy's links:Jeremy Alder's websiteInstagramFacebook Key takeaways from the episode:Unique Upbringing: Jeremy Alder was raised in a fundamentalist Christian household, which significantly shaped his early life and worldview.Homeschooling Experience: His education was conducted at home by missionary parents, leading to a childhood without exposure to mainstream media like TV and the internet.Cultural Isolation: This sheltered upbringing resulted in a lack of cultural touchpoints, which Jeremy had to navigate and catch up on later in life.Faith and Skepticism: Jeremy's journey included phases of deep faith, skepticism, and eventual deconstruction of his religious beliefs.Comedy as an Outlet: Stand-up comedy became a creative outlet for Jeremy, allowing him to process his past and connect with others who had similar experiences.Family Dynamics: His relationship with his family, particularly his parents, was complex and influenced by differing views on faith and lifestyle.Personal Growth: Jeremy's story is one of personal growth, as he learned to balance his upbringing with his own beliefs and career aspirations.Community and Connection: Finding community, whether through comedy or other means, was crucial for Jeremy in navigating his journey.Honesty and Vulnerability: Jeremy values honesty and vulnerability, both in his comedy and in his personal life, as tools for connection and healing.Creative Expression: His story highlights the importance of creative expression in processing personal experiences and finding one's voice. ---We're on YouTube here.Want more? Check out our exclusive Patreon episodes here.Our blog is here.Join the conversation and connect with others here.The transcript of this episode is here.All our other links are here. Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Explore the transformative journey of a former pastor turned psychologist, grappling with the challenges of faith deconstruction. Tracy likens her belief system to a Jenga tower, discussing the cognitive dissonance and emotional toll experienced in ministry. She shares personal stories about her mission trips and the importance of community support on her path to authenticity. Reflecting on her career change, Tracy emphasizes the power of resilience and self-discovery, ultimately encouraging listeners to live true to themselves.

Troy and Brian engage in a deep conversation with Cara Flame, an Australian experiential and creative arts therapist, about her journey from being a teenage fundamentalist to becoming an advocate for those recovering from religious trauma. Cara tells of her experiences in the Esther Foundation, a Christian Fundamentalist organisation, and how it shaped her views on sexuality, shame, and identity. Cara shares her ongoing struggles with the remnants of purity culture and emphasises the importance of listening to one's body and desires. The conversation also touches on the significance of activism in the deconstruction space and Cara's aspirations for the future, including her writing and performance endeavours.Links:Cara Flame's websiteTakeaways:Cara Flame shares her journey from fundamentalism to therapy.The Esther Foundation was a cult-like experience for Cara.Cara emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and desires.Shame from purity culture continues to affect many individuals.Deconstructing beliefs is a lifelong process.Cara's book aims to help others navigate their own journeys.The impact of fundamentalism on identity is profound and lasting.Cara's experiences highlight the need for open discussions about sexuality.Activism in the deconstruction space is crucial for change.Cara encourages others to embrace their true selves and passions. ---We're on YouTube here.Want more? Check out our exclusive Patreon episodes here.Our blog is here.Join the conversation and connect with others here.The transcript of this episode is here.All our other links are here. Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The hosts dive into their visit to Hillsong, uncovering its mega-church vibe and vibrant community atmosphere. They humorously critique the reliance on volunteers and the commercialization of faith, discussing familiar yet evolving church practices. Reflections on miracles spark debates on faith's interpretations amidst nostalgia and skepticism. The blend of cultural diversity shines through, even as the worship style receives mixed reviews. Ultimately, they challenge listeners to rethink spiritual engagement beyond traditional church confines.

Claire Hoffman, an American journalist and author, dives into the fascinating life of Aimee Semple McPherson, a trailblazer of American evangelicalism. They discuss McPherson's scandalous disappearance and how fame intertwined with her faith shaped her legacy. Claire shares her upbringing in a transcendental meditation community, contrasting it with traditional beliefs. The conversation also explores the complexities of religious celebrity culture, the impact of history on faith narratives, and the role of community in defining spiritual leaders.

Brian & Troy used to be loyal megachurch leaders. They’re not anymore. This podcast explores life in and after Christian Fundamentalism. ---We're on YouTube here.Want more? Check out our exclusive Patreon episodes here.Our blog is here.Join the conversation and connect with others here.The transcript of this episode is here.All our other links are here. Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.