Ep. #54 Beyond the Church Walls: A Former Reformed Baptist’s LGBTQ+ Awakening

Please consider buying us a cup of coffee or two by clicking here. Your support helps fund our out of pocket expenses

In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody engage with Brooke Baker, a former member of the Reformed Baptist Church. Brooke shares her experiences growing up in a community she believes exhibits cult-like characteristics, including strict control, isolation, and a lack of engagement with broader society. The conversation explores the theological underpinnings of the Reformed Baptist denomination, the impact of homeschooling, and the challenges of leaving such a tightly-knit community. Brooke reflects on her journey towards critical thinking and the stigma surrounding mental health within her former church. The discussion also touches on the absence of reported abuse, providing a nuanced view of her experiences. In this conversation, Brooke shares her journey of questioning her religious upbringing, particularly within the context of the Southern Baptist Church. She discusses the cognitive dissonance she experienced regarding core beliefs, such as creationism and Calvinism, and how these led her to reevaluate her faith. The discussion also touches on her personal identity, including coming out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and the challenges she faced with her family regarding acceptance. Brooke offers advice for those in similar situations, emphasizing the importance of exploring different communities and fostering open discussions about beliefs.

takeaways

• Brooke defines Reformed Baptist as a smaller, fringe denomination.
• The church was started by Brooke's parents, limiting her choice in involvement.
• The environment was strict, with a vague dress code and limited outside influence.
• Homeschooling was common, leading to a sheltered upbringing.
• Mental health issues were stigmatized, with a preference for spiritual solutions.
• Brooke began to question her beliefs during high school and college.
• The church did not practice shunning, but discomfort led many to leave.

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

Cultimatum Instagram page

Cultimatum TikTok account

Cultimatum Pinterest account

Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

A Production of the Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios

anonymousandrewpodcast@gmail.com

or visit

www.anonymousandrewpodcast.com

Ep. #53 Faith Deconstruction: A Mother's Choice

Please consider buying us a cup of coffee or two by clicking here. Your support helps fund our out of pocket expenses

In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, hosts Anonymous Andrew and Melody welcome Kate Kendrick, a former member of the Mormon Church, who shares her profound journey of leaving the faith. Kate discusses her upbringing in a devout Mormon family, her experiences as a missionary, and the challenges she faced when her child came out as transgender. The conversation delves into the complexities of faith deconstruction, the impact of church doctrine on family relationships, and the emotional turmoil of navigating life after leaving a high-demand religion. Kate emphasizes the importance of community and support in the healing process and reflects on the liberating experience of embracing her true self and her child's identity. In this conversation, Kate Kendrick shares her journey of leaving the Mormon church, the challenges of acceptance, and the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. She discusses her personal experiences with faith crises, the struggles of navigating life after divorce, and her transition to online content creation. The conversation delves into unique practices within Mormonism, the role of women, and the hidden truths of abuse within the church. Kate emphasizes the significance of critical thinking and empathy for those still in high-demand religions, while also addressing the healing process after leaving such organizations.

Kates Social Media & podcast links:

Midlife Exmo YouTube

Midlife Exmo TikTok

An ExMo and a NeverMo Walk Into a Bar... Podcast

An ExMo and a NeverMo Walk Into a Bar... Facebook

Good Morning America segment

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

Cultimatum Instagram

Cultimatum TikTok account

Cultimatum Pinterest

A Production of the Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios

Ep. #52 The Hidden Truths of Human Trafficking with Caroline Pugh-Roberts

Please consider buying us a cup of coffee or two by clicking here. Your support helps fund our out of pocket expenses

In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, hosts Andrew and Melody engage in a profound conversation with Caroline Pugh Roberts, a survivor of human trafficking. Caroline shares her harrowing journey of being trafficked for eight years, detailing the psychological manipulation, exploitation, and the complex dynamics of her experiences. The discussion highlights the importance of awareness, the challenges faced by survivors, and the systemic issues surrounding human trafficking, including the role of law enforcement and societal perceptions. Caroline's advocacy work aims to shed light on these issues and support others in similar situations. This conversation delves into the complexities of human trafficking, focusing on the experiences of survivors, the societal structures that perpetuate trafficking, and the importance of understanding the demand side of the sex trade. Caroline shares her insights from years of advocacy work, highlighting the need for a shift in how society views and addresses trafficking. The discussion also touches on the cultural implications and racial dynamics involved in trafficking, as well as the hope and recovery pathways available for victims.

takeaways

• Human trafficking is a local issue, not just international.
• Traffickers often use psychological manipulation techniques like love bombing.
• Stripping can be a front for exploitation and trafficking.
• Survivors often face significant challenges reintegrating into society.
• The term 'family' is often misused by traffickers to manipulate victims.
• Leaving trafficking situations can take years and is fraught with challenges.

Caroline's Facebook Support Group Link

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info & Links:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

Cultimatum Instagram Link

Cultimatum TikTok Link

Cultimatum Pinterest Link

Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

Email: anonymousandrewpodcast@gmail.com

or visit

The Anonymous Andrew Podcast Website

Ep. #51 Polygamy & Loss: Leanne's Escape from The House of Yahweh

Please consider buying us a cup of coffee or two by clicking here. Your support helps fund our out of pocket expenses

In this episode of the Cultumatum podcast, hosts Anonymous Andrew and Melody engage with Leanne Walker, a former member of the House of Yahweh. Leanne shares her personal journey of joining the cult at a young age, the challenges she faced in adapting to a new life, and the complexities of relationships within the cult, including her experience with polygamy. The conversation delves into the dynamics of power, the impact of cult teachings on personal beliefs, and the struggles of leaving such an environment. In this conversation, Leanne Walker shares her profound journey of leaving the House of Yahweh, a cult-like religious group. She discusses her breaking point, the escape with her family, and the tragic loss of her daughter, Sam, which was compounded by the group's beliefs about grief and mourning. Leanne reflects on her relationship with her father, the impact of her upbringing on her life, and her path to healing and self-discovery. She offers valuable advice for those questioning their involvement in similar groups and emphasizes the importance of seeking support from those who have left.

takeaways

• Leanne joined the House of Yahweh at age 11.
• Her mother was introduced to the cult through a conversation at work.
• Leanne experienced a significant adjustment when moving to the cult's community.
• She initially did not believe in the cult's teachings.
• Leanne was married at 17 without a legal marriage license.
• Polygamy was practiced within the cult, affecting Leanne's marriage.
• Her ex-husband was sent to bring home a second wife.
• Leanne felt pushed aside after her husband took a second wife.
• She questioned the cult's teachings, leading to her eventual departure.
• Leanne wanted her children to have a voice and not be raised in the cult. The breaking point often leads to significant life changes.
• Leaving a controlling environment can be a complex process.

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info & Links:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

Cultimatum Instagram Link

Cultimatum TikTok Link

Cultimatum Pinterest Link

Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

Email: anonymousandrewpodcast@gmail.com

or visit

The Anonymous Andrew Podcast Website

Ep. #50 All Who Believed: A Memoir of Life in the Twelve Tribes with Tamara Mathieu

Please consider buying us a cup of coffee or two by clicking here. Your support helps fund our out of pocket expenses

In this episode of the Cultimatum Podcast, hosts Andrew and Melody interview Tamara Mathieu, an author and former member of the 12 Tribes cult. Tamara shares her personal journey of joining the cult, the strict lifestyle and beliefs of the group, and her eventual realization that she needed to leave. The conversation delves into the origins of the 12 Tribes, the indoctrination process, the roles of women, and the impact on family dynamics. Tamara's story highlights the challenges of leaving a high-control group and the emotional struggles faced by those who seek to break free. In this conversation, Tamara Mathieu shares her experiences growing up in the 12 Tribes community, discussing the complexities of communication among children, the strict protocols surrounding intimacy and sexuality, and the journey of leaving the community. She reflects on the challenges of adjusting to life outside the cult, her evolving beliefs about faith, and the significance of celebrating life events like birthdays and holidays after leaving. Tamara also discusses her memoir, which aims to provide insight into her life within the community and the diverse experiences of others.

takeaways

• The 12 Tribes is a high-control group that demands total submission.
• Members give up their personal freedoms and finances upon joining.
• The group believes they are God's chosen people for the end times.
• Tamara joined the cult seeking a safe and wholesome environment for her family.
• Isolation from family is a common experience for members.

Tamara's Facebook Link

Tamara's Book on Amazon

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info & Links:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

Cultimatum Instagram Link

Cultimatum TikTok Link

Cultimatum Pinterest Link

Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

Email: anonymousandrewpodcast@gmail.com

or visit

The Anonymous Andrew Podcast Website

Ep. #49 Beyond the Kingdom Hall: Nathan & Amber’s Path to Freedom and Faith

Please consider buying us a cup of coffee or two by clicking here. Your support helps fund our out of pocket expenses

In this episode of the Cultimatum Podcast, hosts Anonymous Andrew and Melody engage with Nathan and Amber, a married couple who share their experiences as former Jehovah's Witnesses. They discuss their journey from being deeply involved in the faith to recognizing its flaws, including the organization's handling of abuse cases and the impact of family dynamics on their beliefs. The conversation delves into the acronyms Pimo and Pomo, representing different levels of belief and involvement, and highlights the troubling practices within the Jehovah's Witness community, such as prison witnessing and the prioritization of the organization's reputation over the safety of its members. In this conversation, Amber and Nathan share their experiences growing up in the Jehovah's Witnesses, discussing the dark realities of organized religion, including abuse and the culture of silence. They explore the mentality of 'us vs. them' within the community, the decline of the Jehovah's Witnesses, and the future of organized religion. They emphasize the importance of finding faith outside of traditional structures and the need for support systems for those leaving such organizations.

Amber's TikTok Link

Nathan's TikTok Link

Amber's Instagram Link

Amber's Email CultLifeEscaped@gmail.com

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info & Links:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

Cultimatum Instagram Link

Cultimatum TikTok Link

Cultimatum Pinterest Link

Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

Email: anonymousandrewpodcast@gmail.com

or visit

The Anonymous Andrew Podcast Website

Ep.#48 Leaving The William Branham Cult: Breanna Brown's Transformation

Please consider buying us a cup of coffee or two by clicking here. Your support helps fund our out of pocket expenses

In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Breanna Brown shares her harrowing journey growing up in the extremist sect of the William Branham cult. She discusses the strict rules and regulations imposed on members, the cult's beliefs, and the impact of excommunication on her life. Breanna also highlights the racism and cultural suppression within the sect, her journey of healing, and the rebuilding of her family relationships after leaving the cult. Through her blog, she aims to share her story and connect with others who have had similar experiences. In this conversation, Breanna Brown shares her experiences growing up in a cult, discussing the strict protocols surrounding body image, sexuality, and modesty. She reflects on her journey of healing from domestic violence and the importance of recognizing and escaping cults. Breanna emphasizes the need for community and empowerment after leaving such environments, encouraging others to educate themselves and seek support.

Link to Breanna's Blog

Breanna's Instagram Link

Breanna's Threads Link

Breanna's Facebook Link

Breanna's BlueSky Link

Breanna's X Link

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info & Links:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

Cultimatum Instagram Link

Cultimatum TikTok Link

Cultimatum Pinterest Link

Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

Email: anonymousandrewpodcast@gmail.com

or visit

The Anonymous Andrew Podcast Website

Ep. # 47 "Jehovah's Fucking Witnesses": With Josh B. Morton

Please consider buying us a cup of coffee or two by clicking here. Your support helps fund our out of pocket expenses

In this episode of Cultumatum, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody welcome Josh B Morton, a former Jehovah's Witness, who shares his personal journey of leaving the faith. Josh discusses the complexities of growing up in a high-control environment, the impact of COVID-19 on his beliefs, and the importance of individual journeys in leaving cult-like religions. He emphasizes the significance of questioning beliefs and the challenges faced by those who choose to leave, including the fear of losing family connections. The conversation also touches on the concept of Pimo, where individuals are physically present in a group but mentally disengaged, and the emotional turmoil that comes with such a transition. In this conversation, Josh B Morton shares his journey of deconstructing his beliefs as a former Jehovah's Witness. He discusses the complexities of faith, the nature of God, and the importance of personal development. The dialogue explores how personal experiences shape beliefs, the challenges of parenting without dogma, and the significance of supporting others in their journeys of self-discovery. Josh emphasizes the need for authenticity and the value of understanding different perspectives on spirituality and higher powers.

takeaways

• Everyone's journey out of a cult is unique.
• Anonymity can be crucial for those leaving high-control groups.
• The impact of family relationships is profound in cult dynamics.

Link to Josh's Book on Amazon

Cultimatum Podcast Contact Info & Links:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

Cultimatum Instagram Link

Cultimatum TikTok Link

Cultimatum Pinterest Link

Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

Email: anonymousandrewpodcast@gmail.com

or visit

The Anonymous Andrew Podcast Website