Church Disrupted

A mega church pastor just blew up online... and it backfired. Pastor Russell B. Johnson went off on The Religion Business documentary days before it dropped. But instead of silencing critics, his tirade raised even more questions about church transparency and looked completely un-Christlike. Here’s what really happened, and why it matters.Be one of the first people to watch the Religion Business docu-series and get 10% HERE: https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/purchase/JEFFC83 WATCH Nathan and Chris's response to Russell here: https://youtu.be/HkvlEVoD8VYWATCH our original interview about the docu-series here: https://youtu.be/gNlwIC7xwOAFind out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

What happens when a mega church pastor publicly lashes out at a video series exposing how the church has been co-opted by power and profit? In this episode, the creators of The Religion Business, Nathan Apffel and Chris Ayoub, sit down to respond to Russell B. Johnson's social media allegations against them. Not with outrage, but to bring clarity. Nothing is off the table in this honest and direct conversation.* Russell Johnson was invited to join this conversation but declined. Here is is official statement: “I think Nathan is wrong regarding the conclusions he’s reached about tithing. but he’s been an entertaining person to go back and forth with on social media. Ruslan offered to moderate a debate, happy to do it.”Be one of the first people to watch the Religion Business docu-series and get 10% HERE: https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/purchase/JEFFC83 WATCH our original interview about the docu-series here: https://youtu.be/gNlwIC7xwOAFind out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

When I sat down with Ruslan KD, things got tense. We tackled NDAs, sermon plagiarism, spiritual abuse, and the messy truth behind deconstruction. We didn’t always agree, but we didn’t hold back either.This is a conversation every christian should here, especially church leaders!Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to a Controversial Church Convo01:53 Why This Conversation Happened03:19 Ruslan's weighs in09:17 Ruslan's Reaction to Dr. Michael Brown16:46 Too Charitable OR Too Critical?24:54 Sin is Sin?31:34 NDAs in Churches44:46 Power Dynamics47:27 Legal and Ethical Questions50:47 Real Church NDAs57:23 Non-Disparagement vs. Defamation01:06:17 A Better Approach to NDAs01:11:13 Legal Loopholes and NDAs in Churches01:16:19 SAI's Perspective01:20:58 Deconstruction - Good or Bad?01:27:13 Reconstruction and Faith Journeys01:37:58 Responding to Deconstruction01:43:48 Church Trends01:50:47 Celebrity Conversions and Faith Journeys01:53:33 Reasons for Deconstruction?01:56:17 Extreme Swings02:02:19 To the hurting02:15:30 Final Thoughts and EncouragementFair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

The discussion dives into the controversial teachings of John Bevere, specifically his 'Bait of Satan' doctrine. It critiques the interpretation of biblical passages, emphasizing the importance of context and original language. Key topics include the nuances of offense in scripture and the dangers of spiritual abuse often lurking behind misinterpretations. Listeners are urged to reconsider the impact of false teachings and the need for genuine accountability in faith communities, especially regarding personal grievances.

In this episode of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran critically review a Mother’s Day sermon from Lake Pointe Church that many say silenced victims of spiritual abuse. We unpack the harmful messages that minimize real pain and why this matters for church accountability and healing. If you care about protecting survivors and calling out spiritual abuse, this conversation is a must-watch.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

Anger is often villified in the church, but what if anger isn’t the enemy, especially when it’s holy and fueled by love. In this video, Jeff Cochran explores why embracing righteous anger is crucial in confronting church abuse and protecting the vulnerable. If you’ve ever been told your anger isn’t “Jesus-like,” this video is for you!Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

Can religious trauma really be contagious in our churches? In this conversation, we dig into how spiritual wounds spread and affect people, often without anyone even realizing it. Whether you’ve been hurt, lead a church, or just want to understand what’s going on, this video breaks down why awareness matters and how we can start healing together. If you care about making churches safer and healthier, this one’s for you.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignLearn about the Disrupt Campaign here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/about/disruptgivingcampaignLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).Chapters: 00:00 - Intro01:09 - Meet the Experts: Dr. Lisa Compton and Taylor Patterson04:51 - Understanding Compassion Fatigue and Safeguarding07:58 - Challenges of Recognizing and Addressing Religious Trauma10:02 - The Importance of Healing for Helpers30:53 - Boundaries in Ministry40:17 - The Challenge of Problem-Solving Mode51:37 - The Importance of Trauma-Informed Training01:05:28 - Collective and Communal Trauma01:11:55 - Final Thoughts

What can the Church learn from the Dr. Michael Brown investigation? In this honest conversation, Ron Cantor joins the Church Disrupted Podcast to unpack real lessons, challenges, and next steps for church leaders, survivors, and anyone who cares about truth and accountability in the Church. From intent vs. impact to healthy board practices and restoring trust, this episode is all about building safer, more honest communities. Join the conversation below!Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

What happens when those closest to a ministry speak up?In this video, former students and staff from Dr. Michael Brown’s leadership circles share their experiences inside Fire School and BRSM. These aren’t outsiders throwing stones. These are people who believed in the mission, gave years of their lives, and are now telling the truth.Their stories expose what can go wrong when loyalty is demanded, questions are silenced, and image matters more than integrity.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignLearn about the Disrupt campaign here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/about/disruptgivingcampaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

In this insightful talk, former worship pastor Josh Barbour, known for his advocacy against the exploitation of kids online, reveals his experiences navigating the complexities of church systems. He and Jeff Cochran discuss spiritual abuse, the emotional toll of leadership pressures, and the problematic use of NDAs. They explore the toxic performance culture within churches and the stark financial disparities that undermine community care. Their candid dialogue emphasizes the urgent need for accountability, transparency, and meaningful reform in faith communities.