Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast

Episode 199 – Leave a Legacy  “Legacy isn’t about what you leave behind. It’s about what you build into others while you’re still here.” As we approach the final chapter of the RFP journey, Episode 199 hits deep. JC Groves sits down with long-time friend and Word of Life missionary Caleb Cody for a powerful conversation on what it truly means to leave a legacy. This episode isn’t about platform, praise, or performance. It’s about presence. It’s about impact. It’s about choosing every day to live with intention, honesty, and grace — and trusting that God is writing something bigger than we can see. Together, JC and Caleb explore:What real legacy looks like — beyond titles and applauseHow deconstruction shaped the legacy they want to leavePractical ways to start building a legacy todayWhy it’s never too late to begin writing a better story This isn’t just another episode. It’s a moment. A pause to reflect. A space to breathe. And a reminder that your story, your influence, and your faithfulness still matter. Episode 200 drops next week, and it’s the final one. — www.recoveringfundamentalist.org Available wherever you listen to podcasts. YOUTUBE Video at the start of the episode

Episode #198: "Narcissism in the name of the Lord - The real church scandal"  Not everyone who says “God told me” is hearing from God. Not every “pastor” is a shepherd. Some are narcissists in church clothes—manipulating, gaslighting, and controlling people in the name of Jesus. In this raw, unfiltered episode, JC breaks down: How to spot narcissists—especially in spiritual leadership What it really means to “mark and avoid” (Romans 16:17) The difference between confidence and control How to start healing if you’ve been spiritually abused If you've ever walked away from a toxic church or been called a narcissist just for standing in confidence… This one's for you. You’re not crazy. You’re not alone. And you don’t have to stay silent. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Lynn Gibson, author of 'ENOUGH: One Man’s Search for Adequacy' and founder of Wild Heart Adventures, dives deep into the concept of sonship and identity. He recounts his journey of understanding grace versus performance-based validation, shedding light on why many men feel inadequate. The conversation also touches on personal transformation through unconditional love, the impact of fatherhood, and the healing power of storytelling during fishing trips. Lynn's insights remind us that we are enough simply by being God's children.

On this weeks episode, Host JC Groves welcome Daniel Winn to the show and we hear the powerful journey of hope, healing and beloning.  This episode explores Daniel's transition from a rigid religious upbringing to finding true belonging in grace and freedom. Discover how Daniel's story resonates with themes of leaving legalism behind to embrace a deeper understanding of faith and community. This episode promises to inspire and challenge as we explore the transformative power of grace in Daniel's life and in our own journeys. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation that reminds us all of the beauty found in leaving and the belonging that follows.

Episode 195: “Just Be Normal, Bro” with Christiana Miller In this episode of the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast, JC is joined by the hilarious and deeply insightful Christiana Miller — singer, songwriter, comedian, and social media influencer — who’s using her platforms to help people break free from the chains of legalism… one reel at a time. Christiana’s message is simple: “Just be normal, bro.” You don’t have to go to extremes to follow Jesus. You don’t have to live in fear to be faithful. And no, you don’t have to give up your personality to be holy. We talk about: Life after legalism and what “normal” faith looks like How humor and music help in the healing process The mental toll of performance-based religion Why it’s 100% possible to have a thriving life and a healthy relationship with Jesus — without all the rules Whether you're fresh out of fundamentalism or just realizing how deep it went, this episode will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even breathe a little easier. Because freedom isn’t just theological — it’s personal. https://www.youtube.com/@christianamillermusic https://recoveringfundamentalist.org/ https://hopechurchcatoosa.com/

In this episode of the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast, Host, JC Groves sits down with Dr. Marcus Merritt, Director of the Doctor of Ministry program at Luther Rice Theological Seminary, for an honest and eye-opening conversation about accreditation in Christian education. Whether you’re considering Bible college, seminary, or guiding the next generation of church leaders, this episode dives into the practical, theological, and ministry-related implications of choosing an accredited vs. unaccredited institution. We talk about: What accreditation actually is—and why it matters The real-world consequences of unaccredited degrees How credibility in education supports the credibility of ministry The balance between spiritual formation and academic rigor With humor, honesty, and insight, this conversation challenges some deeply held assumptions and offers clarity for anyone navigating the world of Christian higher ed. Grab your coffee, light up that cigar, and join us for a conversation every pastor, student, and parent needs to hear. Website: https://www.lutherrice.edu   Request Info Page: https://www.lutherrice.edu/requestinfo/     Doctor of Ministry Page: https://www.lutherrice.edu/degree-programs/doctor_of_ministrys   Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lutherrice_official https://recoveringfundamentalist.org/ https://www.patreon.com/c/RecoveringFundamentalistPodcastJC?redirect=true https://hopechurchcatoosa.com/

EPISODE 193: The Power of Prayer (with Danny Hesterly of Pray Chattanooga) What if prayer isn’t about performance—but about presence? In this episode of the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast, host JC Groves sits down with Danny Hesterly, founder of Pray Chattanooga, to talk about reclaiming the beauty, honesty, and power of prayer. For many recovering from religious trauma or legalism, prayer can feel like a painful memory or a forgotten practice. But what if prayer is actually the path back to healing, peace, and connection with God? Danny shares stories from the grassroots prayer movement sweeping through Chattanooga, along with practical encouragement for anyone who feels distant from God—or just doesn’t know where to start again. If prayer has ever felt confusing, heavy, or fake, this conversation will remind you of one powerful truth: God isn’t impressed with your performance—He just wants your presence.Billy Graham Video from episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wrvqVnFrkM&t=141s https://recoveringfundamentalist.org/ HopeChurchCatoosa.com

Episode #192 we dive deep into the topic of "Healthy Churches - What to Look For." Our special guest, Chris Goeppner, pastor of Riverbank Church in Vermont.  Chris brings invaluable insights on identifying signs of health and vitality in church communities. From leadership transparency to genuine community engagement, we explore practical markers that define a thriving church. Whether you're a church leader, member, or simply curious about church health, this episode offers wisdom and inspiration for cultivating vibrant spiritual communities. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on what truly makes a church thrive! https://riverbankchurch.com/ https://hopechurchcatoosa.com/ https://recoveringfundamentalist.org/ https://www.patreon.com/c/RecoveringFundamentalistPodcastJC?redirect=true

Episode 191: The Weight of Perfectionism in the IFB and Legalistic Churches In this powerful episode, Host JC Groves is joined by Sarah Vick, founder of A-mom-logetics—a ministry dedicated to equipping moms to defend a rock-solid faith in a shifting-sand culture and communicate deep truths to their kids in age-appropriate ways. Together, we unpack the silent burden of perfectionism that so many of us carried in the IFB and other legalistic church environments. From personal stories to practical insights, we explore how performance-based faith distorts the gospel, impacts parenting, and damages our view of God. Sarah shares her journey of healing, and how moms (and all believers) can begin breaking the cycle of fear, shame, and spiritual burnout—and instead embrace grace, honesty, and freedom in Christ. If you've ever felt like you had to be perfect to be loved by God, this episode is for you.  

On this episode we dive into all things Word Of Life with our special guest Jonathan Bubar. Whether you're familiar with their ministry or new to their impact, this episode is packed with insights and stories that will inspire and challenge. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! wol.org recoveringfundamentalist.org hopechurchcatoosa.com