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Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism
Exposing The Wilds - Four Part Series - EARLY RELEASE on Patreon
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Get early access to the FULL Exposing The Wilds series here: https://patreon.com/4ndrewpledger
or listeners can wait until the end of August to get the final episode.
This four-part series features a former staff member of The Wilds Christian camp in Brevard, NC. The camp is affiliated with Bob Jones University. The former staff sheds light on its inner workings. We'll delve into the camp's origins, organizational structure, daily routines, counseling methods, teachings, practices, and more. The series starts with the survivor's childhood experiences at Bethany Baptist in Brevard; an Independent Fundamental Baptist church/cult affiliated with The Wilds camp. She recalls the abuse endured at the church’s Christian school and the church's controlling nature, describing the pervasive influence of The Wilds staff over the church and the cult-ure they fostered.
In the second installment, the survivor unveils her experiences working at The Wilds. She outlines the staff hierarchy, roles, and training, revealing the organization's intricate inner workings and demanding schedules. She discloses the counseling techniques employed on campers, sharing haunting stories and instances of heavy indoctrination through sleep deprivation, substandard meals, fear tactics, information control, time management, intense physical activity, and more. In the third section, she shares more specific accounts and concerns about the camp and discusses her healing journey.
In the final episode, she reviews a counseling booklet produced by The Wilds, detailing their counseling methods and their impacts. A big part of the counseling is The Tree Model which the survivor exposes and unpacks.
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*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
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Ep. 24 - Just A Number - Jay Cozzini
01:04:45|Jay Cozzini shares his journey from an isolated upbringing in Alaska to attending Bob Jones University. Jay offers an insider perspective on the culture at BJU and recounts experiences of exploiting loopholes in their strict rulebook. He reveals the challenges faced as a Calvinist student, details his active role in a silent protest against mishandled abuse cases linked to BJU and highlights the subsequent pushback from the institution. The episode exposes underlying issues of control, racism, and homophobia, advocating for the dismantling of repressive systems.LGBTQ+ Resources - Jacob's Ladder: https://www.qrcodechimp.com/page/jacobsladder?v=chk1719766347JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerFacebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
Recognizing Spiritual Abuse - PATREON BONUS PREVIEW
10:02|Access the FULL EPISODE HERE: https://patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerIn this Patreon bonus episode, I discuss the concept of spiritual abuse, delving into my personal journey of discovering and defining it. I share insights on how spiritual abuse manifests, often in high-control religious groups, through controlling language and suppressing individual identity. Drawing from various sources, I offer definitions and examples of spiritual abuse, highlighting its impact on mental health and self-perception. I emphasize the subtlety of spiritual abuse, its coercive nature, and its widespread existence across different religious contexts.JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerFacebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
Ep. 23 - Never Good Enough - Daisy
44:58|In this episode, I welcome Daisy back and she delves into her harrowing experiences at BJU and the Wilds Christian Camp. Daisy recounts instances of religious indoctrination, physical and emotional abuse, and the manipulative control tactics employed by the institutions. She bravely shares the painful memories that were recently unlocked, shedding light on these toxic environments that left lasting scars. The episode highlights the brutal reality faced by many in these fundamentalist systems, emphasizing the importance of survivor stories in exposing this widespread abuse.Andrew’s LinksJOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerFacebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
Ep. 22 - Dorm Counselor’s Confessions: The Reality of BJU Life - Amanda Koth
01:10:49|In this episode, I have an insightful conversation with Amanda Koth a former dorm counselor at Bob Jones University (BJU). Amanda shares her journey from growing up in a conservative Baptist community to her experiences at BJU as a resident assistant (RA), eventually transitioning into her role as a dorm counselor. She provides a rare glimpse into the stringent and invasive regulations enforced by the university, including the handling of self-harm, suicide, abuse, and LGBTQ+ students. Amanda discusses the limited training and tools available for counseling students and the pervasive culture of enforcement rather than empathy. She also reflects on her personal journey of accepting her sexuality after leaving BJU and offers support and advice for current students grappling with similar issues. This episode sheds light on the restrictive and often harmful environment within BJU and emphasizes the importance of finding freedom and authenticity beyond such institutions.Andrew's Links JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/ Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links -Music: https://www.purple-planet.com *Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
Five Unmet Needs in Fundamentalism - PATREON BONUS PREVIEW
08:39|Listen to the full episode on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerIn this bonus episode, I dive into the topic of unmet needs in fundamentalist environments, specifically focusing on developmental trauma. Drawing from Lawrence Heller's book 'Healing Developmental Trauma,' I explore the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM), which emphasizes the core needs of connection, attunement, trust, autonomy, and love/sexuality. I share my personal therapy journey and experiences growing up in a fundamentalist cult, illustrating how unmet needs impact emotional regulation, relationships, and mental health. The episode aims to provide insight into recognizing and addressing these challenges through therapy and personal growth.ResourcesHealing Developmental Trauma by Heller: https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Developmental-Trauma-Self-Regulation-Relationship/dp/1583944893/ref=sr_1_19 Steps to Healing Childhood Trauma as an Adult | Psychology TodayWhat Is Developmental Trauma? | Psychology TodayAndrew's LinksJOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/ Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links -Music: https://www.purple-planet.com *Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
A Well-Trained Wife - Tia Levings - Special Episode
42:13|In this episode I speak with Tia Levings, who bravely shares her journey of escaping Christian patriarchy and introduces her memoir, 'A Well-Trained Wife.' We discuss her traumatic experiences in fundamentalism and her courageous path to freedom. Tia also delves into the broader implications of fundamentalism on women and her healing journey, including her upcoming book 'The Soul of Healing.' This episode is a heartfelt exploration of survival, recovery, and the vital importance of amplifying survivor stories.Buy “A Well-Trained Wife” by Tia Levings: https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/well-trained-wife-9781250288288/Tia’s linktree: https://bookshop.org/p/books/a-well-trained-wife-my-escape-from-christian-patriarchy-tia-levings/20395505?ean=9781250288288Andrew’s linksJOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/ Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links -Music: https://www.purple-planet.com *Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
Pt. 2 - Masks of Authoritarian Power - PATREON BONUS PREVIEW
03:20|Access the full episode here: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerIn this bonus Patreon episode of 'Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism,' I continue my exploration of authoritarian power by delving deeper into different manifestations and societal impacts. Building on insights from 'The Guru Papers: Masks of Authoritarian Power,' I discuss how authoritarianism thrives in times of uncertainty, leading people to surrender their critical thinking for a sense of safety and belonging. I examine the regressive appeal of political conservatism, religious fundamentalism, and other forms of extremism. I also touch on contemporary examples, such as Trumpism and the rise of authoritarian Christian nationalist agendas. Drawing from 'Escape from Freedom' by Eric Fromm, I provide historical context on how societies have grappled with authority and freedom. The episode elaborates on the dangerous dynamics of control and surrender in authoritarian systems and the importance of fostering self-trust to resist such influences.Thank you to my Patreon supporters who allow me to do this work!JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerFacebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
Ep. 21 - Part 4. Exposing The Wilds: Uncovered Counseling Booklet - Tabitha Frady
02:13:58|In part four, Tabitha Frady and I conduct a deep dive into the Wild Counseling Notebook from 2016, uncovering the toxic teachings and ideologies of The Wilds. We meticulously dissect its contents, including the camp's mission statements, core values, and abusive counseling methods. The discussion highlights extreme behavioral expectations, the dismissal of mental health struggles, and the victim-blaming tactics used to control and silence individuals. With verbatim readings and personal insights, the episode exposes the harmful impact of these practices on mental and emotional well-being, revealing the cult-like nature of the camp. We also explore paths toward healing and breaking free from indoctrination.JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerFacebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues
Ep. 20 - Part 3. Exposing The Wilds - Tabitha Frady
02:09:26|Part three continues to bring to light the disturbing realities within The Wilds, a Christian camp associated with Bob Jones University. Through the testimony of Tabitha Frady, the episode divulges the camp's inadequate handling of sexual abuse reports, favoring biblical counseling over professional assistance, and its advocacy for forced forgiveness and victim-shaming. The discussion extends to the unsafe living conditions, exploitation, and unjust treatment of staff, including a missionary family. Furthermore, it highlights the severe injuries and deaths resulting from the camp's negligence and the challenges faced by individuals adjusting to life after leaving such a restrictive environment. The episode also digs into the Wilds' pervasive influence and its global outreach through the Camps Abroad program.JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledgerFacebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/My Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links-Music: https://www.purple-planet.com*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues