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The ShannyPants Show

Katherine Spearing

Season 4, Ep. 14

Katherine Spearing MA, CTRC is the founder of Tears of Eden, a nonprofit supporting survivors of spiritual abuse, and the host of Tears' affiliate podcast Uncertain. She also hosts the podcast Trauma & Pop Culture and is a Certified Trauma Recovery Coach working primarily with clients who have survived cults, high-control environments, spiritual abuse, and sexual abuse. She also provides specialized trauma informed career coaching, as folks with trauma often need extra support for interviewing and networking. 

Katherine is the author of a historical romantic comedy, Hartfords, a novel that challenges gender roles in a patriarchal society that will appeal to fans of Jane Austen. She has been a guest on a number of podcasts, including IndoctriNation and That’s So Fcked Up, is the author of several nonfiction articles, and writes regularly at katherinespearing.com and tearsofeden.org

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  • 11. Jess Payton

    01:05:39||Season 5, Ep. 11
    SummaryIn this conversation, Jess Payton shares her journey of growing up in a large family, navigating childhood and adolescence, and exploring her spirituality. She reflects on the complexities of her relationships, the impact of loss, and the pressure to conform to community expectations. Jess's experiences highlight the struggle for identity and belonging, as well as the influence of faith and community on her life choices. Through her story, she emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and the challenges of balancing personal values with societal norms.TakeawaysJess felt a sense of belonging yet also loneliness in her large family.Her childhood was marked by frequent school changes and family dynamics.She explored her spirituality through a Christian camp experience.The loss of a close friend sparked a deeper interest in religion.High school brought social challenges and the search for identity.Jess navigated the complexities of relationships during her teenage years.The church community played a significant role in her life decisions.She faced pressure to conform to modesty standards within her church.Jess struggled with the expectations placed on her by her community.Her experiences led to a conflict between her personal values and community norms.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey01:54 Introduction and Family Dynamics02:17 High School Experiences and Friendships04:44 The Impact of Loss and Spiritual Exploration07:48 Navigating Identity and Social Circles10:30 High School Sports and Social Life13:13 Relationships and Personal Growth15:44 Cultural and Religious Influences18:31 Self-Discovery and Acceptance21:36 Reflections on Adolescence and Growth28:07 Navigating High School Relationships29:58 Memorable Weddings and Social Dynamics33:21 Crushes and Teenage Drama35:19 Exploring Church and Community35:48 The Search for Belonging41:02 Finding Acceptance in New Environments46:48 The Influence of Community on Identity53:18 Manipulation and Sexualization in Sports55:00 Struggles with Identity and Clothing Choices56:56 Confrontation and Control in Relationships58:52 Isolation from Peers and Activities01:00:49 Indoctrination and Camp Experiences01:02:47 Dating, Courtship, and Expectations01:04:24 Welcome to the Shanny Pants Show01:04:49 Supporting the PodcastConnect with Us:〰️〰️Shanny 👖〰️〰️YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokwww.ShannyPantsShow.com-Subscribe to our podcast for more stories of hope and healingIf you or someone you know is struggling with similar experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you are not alone. Visit Living Cult Free to find some amazing resources. I am so happy to be a board director of this wonderful non-profit.Thank you for listening! Your support helps us share these important stories with the world.
  • 10. Lisa Kohn

    01:15:14||Season 5, Ep. 10
    In this conversation, Lisa Kohn shares her profound journey growing up in the Unification Church, detailing the complexities of her childhood, the impact of her family dynamics, and her path to healing and self-discovery after leaving the cult. She reflects on the duality of her life, navigating between the cult's teachings and her father's contrasting lifestyle, and how these experiences shaped her understanding of self-worth and personal growth. In this conversation, Shanny Payton and Lisa Kohn delve into the complexities of growing up in a cult, the impact of codependency, and the long-lasting effects on mental health and relationships. They explore the challenges of navigating identity, acceptance, and the struggle to break free from the ingrained beliefs of their upbringing. The discussion highlights the emotional trauma associated with cult dynamics and the journey towards self-discovery and healing. In this conversation, Lisa Kohn shares her experiences growing up in a cult, the complexities of her family's legacy, and her journey towards healing and self-discovery. She discusses the impact of her upbringing on her life, the challenges she faced after leaving the cult, and the therapeutic processes that helped her navigate her trauma. Lisa emphasizes the importance of self-love and the ongoing nature of recovery, highlighting that it's never too late to change and grow.Lisa Kohn grew up in the Unification Church, known as the Moonies.Her childhood was marked by a stark contrast between her mother's cult and her father's lifestyle.Kohn's mother joined the cult when she was 10, leading to a tumultuous family dynamic.She often felt terrified and clung to her mother for security.Ultimately, she believes in the importance of self-acceptance and understanding that others' opinions are not her responsibility. Codependency is a deeply ingrained issue that can affect relationships.Cult upbringing can lead to significant mental health challenges.Realizing the impact of past experiences is a continuous journey.The struggle for identity often stems from childhood experiences in a cult.Understanding the beliefs of the Moonies provides insight into their cult dynamics.Healing from cult experiences requires addressing feelings of shame and guilt. The Moon family has a complex and troubling legacy.Growing up in a cult can lead to deep psychological scars.Find out more about LISA hereConnect with Us:- Follow 〰️〰️Shanny 👖〰️〰️YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokwww.ShannyPantsShow.com-Subscribe to our podcast for more stories of hope and healingIf you or someone you know is struggling with similar experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you are not alone. Visit Living Cult Free to find some amazing resources. I am so happy to be a board director of this wonderful non-profit.Thank you for listening! Your support helps us share these important stories with the world.
  • 9. Katrina Ford Part 2

    01:02:17||Season 5, Ep. 9
    In this episode of the Shanny Pants Show, host Shanny Payton welcomes Katrina Ford, a religious abuse life coach and author, to share her journey of overcoming religious trauma and facing stage three breast cancer. The conversation explores themes of vulnerability, community support, and the importance of maintaining faith amidst adversity. Katrina's story highlights the challenges of navigating life after leaving a cult, the power of love and kindness from unexpected sources, and the ongoing quest for authenticity in her faith. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of creating space for vulnerability and the healing power of community.The journey of recovery from religious trauma is ongoing.Vulnerability is essential for healing and connection.Community support can come from unexpected places.Faith can coexist with doubt and struggle.Katrina emphasizes the importance of authenticity in faith.Love is a central theme in overcoming trauma.Facing cancer brings new challenges and insights.The importance of creating space for vulnerability in communities.Katrina's story is a testament to resilience and hope.Connect with KatrinaIG @katrinaford_speakerConnect with Us:- Follow 〰️〰️Shanny 👖〰️〰️YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokwww.ShannyPantsShow.com-Subscribe to our podcast for more stories of hope and healingIf you or someone you know is struggling with similar experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you are not alone. Visit Living Cult Free to find some amazing resources. I am so happy to be a board director of this wonderful non-profit.Thank you for listening! Your support helps us share these important stories with the world.
  • 8. Katrina Ford

    01:07:20||Season 5, Ep. 8
    In this conversation, Shanny Payton interviews Katrina Ford, a life coach specializing in religious abuse, academic sabotage, and the 'good girl syndrome.' Katrina shares her journey, including her recent book project titled 'Religious Black Sheep.' The discussion delves into the complexities of religious trauma and the diverse paths individuals take after experiencing high control backgrounds.Katrina Ford is a multifaceted life coach.She specializes in religious abuse and academic sabotage.Katrina has written a book titled 'Religious Black Sheep.'The book is currently in the publishing process.Katrina emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives on trauma.High control backgrounds can lead to various outcomes in faith.Shanny appreciates the different viewpoints of her guests.Katrina's recent book cover photo shoot was a significant milestone.The conversation highlights the challenges of religious trauma recovery.Katrina's coaching focuses on empowering individuals to reclaim their narratives.Connect with KatrinaIG @katrinaford_speakerConnect with Us:- Follow 〰️〰️Shanny 👖〰️〰️YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokwww.ShannyPantsShow.com-Subscribe to our podcast for more stories of hope and healingIf you or someone you know is struggling with similar experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you are not alone. Visit Living Cult Free to find some amazing resources. I am so happy to be a board director of this wonderful non-profit.Thank you for listening! Your support helps us share these important stories with the world.
  • 7. Carrie PART 2

    46:32||Season 5, Ep. 7
    In this episode of the Shanny Pants Show, Shanny and her guest Carrie Bowin delve into their experiences growing up in a cult, discussing the challenges of leaving, the humor found in their past, and the impact of their upbringing on their current lives. They share personal stories, reflect on childhood memories, and explore the complexities of relationships formed in a cult environment. The conversation is filled with laughter, nostalgia, and a deep understanding of resilience and recovery.The importance of community and shared experiences in recovery.Humor plays a significant role in processing past trauma.Childhood memories are often tied to the cult experience.The concept of 'Christian poof' highlights the absurdity of their past.Skating rinks were a place of both fun and strict rules.Singing in church was a serious affair, devoid of joy.The pressure to conform created a culture of pretending.Women in the cult had specific roles and expectations.Reflecting on the past helps in understanding present relationships.- Follow 〰️〰️Shanny 👖〰️〰️YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokwww.ShannyPantsShow.com-Subscribe to our podcast for more stories of hope and healingIf you or someone you know is struggling with similar experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you are not alone. Visit Living Cult Free to find some amazing resources. I am so happy to be a board director of this wonderful non-profit.Thank you for listening! Your support helps us share these important stories with the world.
  • 6. Carrie PART 1

    39:53||Season 5, Ep. 6
    In this conversation, Shanny Payton and Carrie Bowin delve into their experiences growing up in a cult, discussing the challenges of recovery, the impact of strict dress codes, and the journey towards self-discovery and authenticity. They reflect on the shame associated with their upbringing, the importance of family dynamics, and the power of forgiveness and change. The conversation highlights the struggles of navigating childhood and adolescence within a high-control environment and emphasizes the potential for personal growth and transformation.The importance of sharing stories from the cult experience.Shame should not be a part of anyone's childhood experience.The impact of strict dress codes on self-image and confidence.Navigating family relationships post-cult can be challenging.Forgiveness is possible, even after years of hurt.People can change, regardless of age or past actions.Authenticity is crucial for personal growth and self-acceptance.The conversation emphasizes the need for open discussions about cult experiences.It's important to acknowledge the trauma caused by cults. - Follow 〰️〰️Shanny 👖〰️〰️YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokwww.ShannyPantsShow.com-Subscribe to our podcast for more stories of hope and healingIf you or someone you know is struggling with similar experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you are not alone. Visit Living Cult Free to find some amazing resources. I am so happy to be a board director of this wonderful non-profit.Thank you for listening! Your support helps us share these important stories with the world.
  • 5. Lyn Smith Gregory

    01:07:05||Season 5, Ep. 5
    Lyn Smith GregoryIn this conversation, Lynn Smith Gregory shares her profound journey of leaving the Mormon Church, exploring the impact of her upbringing, the challenges of navigating life outside a high-control group, and the complexities of maintaining family relationships. She discusses her spiritual awakening, the role of women in the church, and the ongoing struggles faced by those who leave. The conversation highlights the importance of communication, the crisis of faith among younger generations, and the need for healing and understanding in the aftermath of religious trauma.TakeawaysLynn's family has a long history with the Mormon Church.Leaving the church can lead to feelings of shame and isolation.Spiritual awakening can occur after leaving a high-control group.Maintaining family connections can be challenging after leaving.Women in the Mormon Church often face restrictive roles.Toxic positivity is prevalent in high-control religions.Younger generations are leaving the church in record numbers.Communication barriers exist between those who leave and their families.The church's teachings can lead to internalized sexism.Healing from religious trauma is a complex process.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Lynn's Journey03:10 The Impact of Leaving the Mormon Church05:46 Navigating Life After Leaving09:03 Spiritual Awakening and Exploration11:59 Family Dynamics and Relationships15:00 The Role of Women in Mormon Culture17:58 The Struggles of Leaving a High-Control Group21:00 The Challenge of Maintaining Family Connections24:07 The Hypocrisy of Mormon Culture26:45 The Impact of Toxic Positivity30:08 The Crisis of Faith in the Younger Generation32:50 The Role of Communication in Family Dynamics36:02 The Future of the Mormon Church39:04 Conclusion and Reflections on HealingFind LynWebsiteInstagram-Follow 〰️〰️Shanny 👖〰️〰️YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokwww.ShannyPantsShow.com-Subscribe to our podcast for more stories of hope and healingIf you or someone you know is struggling with similar experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you are not alone. Visit Living Cult Free to find some amazing resources. I am so happy to be a board director of this wonderful non-profit.Thank you for listening! Your support helps us share these important stories with the world.
  • 4. Kacey

    01:03:40||Season 5, Ep. 4
    The Shanny Pants Show Podcast: Kacey Episode Title: Cults, Survivors, and Storytelling with KaceyGuest: Kacey- Background: Creator and host of *The Cult Vault* podcast- Podcast Origin: Launched during the COVID-19 lockdown- Initial Focus: Researching and presenting historical cult cases- Evolution: Transitioned to a platform for survivors to share their personal stories Podcast Overview: - Theme: Focuses on cults and the experiences of cult survivors - Interviews with survivors and experts in the field - Coverage of current events related to cults- Production: Kacey handles all aspects—planning, research, scripting, editing, and uploading- Mission: Raise awareness about cults and provide support to survivorsKacey's Vision- Financial Viability: Aims to make *The Cult Vault* sustainable to support survivor charities- Support for Cult Victims: Interested in developing more resources and initiatives for those affected by cults Key Discussion Points- The importance of storytelling in healing for survivors- How *The Cult Vault* has evolved since its inception- Challenges and triumphs in creating a survivor-centered platform- Current events that highlight the ongoing issues surrounding cults- Future plans for *The Cult Vault* and collaborations with survivor organizationsTakeaways- The significance of raising awareness about cults and their impact on individuals- Encouragement for survivors to share their stories and seek support- The potential of podcasts as a medium for education and advocacy Where to Find Kacey- Listen to *The Cult Vault* wherever you get your podcasts- Follow Kacey on social media for updates and insights I thank Kacey for her invaluable insights and contributions to the conversation on cults and survivor support.I encourage listeners to share the episode and support Kacey's mission.Find out more about Kacey and The Cult Vault
  • 3. Jerald Kimble

    01:05:47||Season 5, Ep. 3
    In this episode of The Shanny Pants Show, Shanny Payton engages in a heartfelt conversation with Jerald, who shares his journey from growing up in a strict Baptist church to navigating life after leaving the ministry. They discuss the challenges of childhood experiences in a cult, the impact of religious trauma, and the importance of breaking the cycle for their children. The conversation also touches on evolving beliefs, the complexities of family relationships, and the journey towards personal growth and healing.TakeawaysJerald's upbringing in a strict Baptist church influenced his life choices.Leaving the church led to a significant personal transformation for Jerald.The importance of addressing childhood trauma in adulthood.Parenting styles have evolved to break the cycle of trauma.The significance of open communication in family relationships.Navigating the complexities of in-law relationships post-cult.The struggle of reconciling past beliefs with current values.The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and necessary.Spirituality can evolve and change over time.Connect with Us:〰️〰️Shanny 👖〰️〰️YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokwww.ShannyPantsShow.com-Subscribe to our podcast for more stories of hope and healingIf you or someone you know is struggling with similar experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you are not alone. Visit Living Cult Free to find some amazing resources. I am so happy to be a board director of this wonderful non-profit.Thank you for listening! Your support helps us share these important stories with the world.The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the host. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The Shanny Pants Show name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.