
I was a Teenage Fundamentalist. An Exvangelical podcast.
Brian and Troy used to be loyal Christian megachurch leaders. They’re not anymore. This podcast explores life in and after fundamentalism.
Latest episodes

Oct 18, 2024 • 54min
Neurodivergence In and Out of Church with D.L. & Krispin Mayfield Part 1
D.L. Mayfield, known for their work on Strongwilled, joins the conversation alongside Krispin Mayfield to explore the complexities of neurodivergence within religious contexts. They candidly discuss D.L.'s autism diagnosis and Troy's recent ADHD experience, highlighting how these identities intersect with personal journeys of faith. The duo critiques traditional evangelical parenting styles, reflecting on their impact on neurodivergent individuals. They share insightful anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of acceptance in church communities.

Oct 4, 2024 • 1h 16min
110 - You can take the girl outta fundamentalism...with Dr Laura Anderson
Dr. Laura Anderson is a licensed psychotherapist, trauma resolution coach, religious trauma consultant, speaker, author, and educator. We talk with her about how when we leave fundamentalism, fundamentalism doesn't necessarily leave us, and its toxicity seems to manifest in other ways. Laura's links:Laura Anderson | Religious Trauma ExpertWhen Religion Hurts You (book)Dr. Laura Anderson on Instagram
---We're now on video 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.

Sep 20, 2024 • 58min
109 - F*ck the Patriarchy! with Cait West
Cait West is a survivor of the Christian patriarchy movement and advocate for survivors of spiritual abuse. In this episode, we talk about her experiences and her book, Rift: A memoir of breaking away from the Christian Patriarchy. She shares her story of hope for those who want to break free from high control environments.LinksCait West's websiteTears of Eden: Supporting survivors of Spiritual Abuse and Religious TraumaRift: A Memoir of Breaking Away from Christian Patriarchy : Amazon.comSurvivors Discuss Podcast – Monthly Panel Discussions About Surviving Toxic & High Control Religion
---We're now on video 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.

Sep 6, 2024 • 1h 16min
108 - Let's Go Back to Great Big AOG Part 2
Following on from Part 1, we continue our recount of a recent Sunday service at Great Big AOG. We dive into the sermon and challenge the f*ck out of his claims and assertions and ask just how reliable are the supposed miracle stories that the pastor told. Judging by the amount of laughter, this two-parter is easily up there with our most fun episodes so far.Links:Let's go back to Great Big AOG Part 1 Listen to the actual recording of the sermon we sat through and recount for you - Ps Dave Harvey |Originally recorded on Sunday, 21st July 2024 | 11:30AMHeaven Bent Podcast Season 2 is about Bethel Church
---We're now on video 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.

Aug 29, 2024 • 56min
107 - Let's Go Back to Great Big AOG Part 1
It's been nearly 30 years since our last visit to Great Big AOG, and in this episode, we go back for a Sunday service. Join us as we recount the weird and bizarre antics and carry-on of these modern Pentecostals. We also introduce you to Brian's significant other, Michelle, as she joined us on our expedition back into the world of church. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll sing in tongues and raise your hands.
---We're now on video 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.

Aug 16, 2024 • 1h 30min
106 - Navigating 'the Gray' with Sharon and Tracey from the Feet of Clay Podcast
In this episode, we are joined by Tracey and Sharon from the podcast, Feet of Clay—Confessions of the Cult Sisters. We talk about the black and white thinking of fundamentalism and how to leave it behind and embrace 'the grays' and nuances that pervade most of what life throws our way.Links:Feet of Clay—Confessions of the Cult SistersTracey & Sharon on Instagram
---We're now on video 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.

Aug 2, 2024 • 1h 16min
105 - Leaving Christian Friends and Family Behind (Our Stories Part 34)
When you leave church and/or the faith, what do you do about those who choose to stay? How do you navigate, maintain or even grieve those you leave behind? Troy and Brian share their own stories and give some advice on this very tricky part of deconstructing.
---We're now on video 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.

Jul 19, 2024 • 1h 10min
104 - Troy Loses His Faith (Our Stories Part 33)
Troy chronicles the events immediately leading up to and after he lost his faith in Jesus. He describes the factors that influenced his decision and how it felt to be finally free of the mental gymnastics he needed to apply to remain a Christian.Links:So long, and thanks for all the guilt! (Troy's deconversion blog)Internet Infidels » a drop of reason in a pool of confusion
---We're now on video 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.

Jul 5, 2024 • 1h 12min
103 - Death with Zenith Virago
Zenith Virago, a Deathwalker, discusses embracing diversity in end-of-life beliefs and the transformative power of love and courage when facing death. She reflects on childhood moments of gender discrimination and the importance of personalized end-of-life rituals. The episode touches on challenging societal norms and supporting individuals through the dying process with compassion.

8 snips
Jun 21, 2024 • 1h 5min
102 - Community After Leaving Church with Bart Campolo & John Wright
Bart Campolo and John Wright discuss leaving fundamentalist communities, transitioning beliefs, and building meaningful secular communities. They explore the challenges of establishing new ethical standards, the significance of love as a survival strategy, and the importance of kindness and relationships post-Christianity.
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