Best Andrew Pledger Podcasts (2025)

1
EXTRA: Five Facts BJU Does Not Want You To Know w/ Dr. Camille Lewis - from Beyond BJU Podcast 1:11:38

2M ago1:11:38

1:11:38

Listen to Beyond BJU HERE Dr. Camille Lewis attended BJU in the 90s, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She joined the faculty at BJU and completed her Ph.D. from Indiana University. In 2007, she left BJU after being given an ultimatum: either resign or permit the BJU daycare to spank her 2-year-old son. She chose her son. I…

1
EXTRA: Teachings, Theology, and Heresies of BJU w/ Dr. Camille Lewis - from Beyond BJU Podcast 1:42:08

2M ago1:42:08

1:42:08

Listen to Beyond BJU HERE Dr. Camille Lewis attended BJU in the 90s, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She joined the faculty at BJU and completed her Ph.D. from Indiana University. In 2007, she left BJU after being given an ultimatum: either resign or permit the BJU daycare to spank her 2-year-old son. She chose her son. I…

1
EXTRA: History of BJU w/ Dr. Camille Lewis - from Beyond BJU Podcast 59:02

3M ago59:02

59:02

Listen to Beyond BJU HERE Dr. Camille Lewis attended BJU in the 90s, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She joined the faculty at BJU and completed her Ph.D. from Indiana University. In 2007, she left BJU after being given an ultimatum: either resign or permit the BJU daycare to spank her 2-year-old son. She chose her son. I…

1
NEW PODCASTS 2:20

12M ago2:20

2:20

Speaking Up has ended, but I have two new podcasts out now. My new podcasts are 'Surviving BJU: A Christian Cult' and 'Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism'. “Surviving Bob Jones University: A Christian Cult” is a limited podcast by Andrew Pledger. The show is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the fundamentalist Christian college BJU, which …

1
Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism - OUT NOW - New Separate Podcast 1:55

1y ago1:55

1:55

Listen to 'Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Other Platforms Join Andrew Pledger as he exposes Bob Jones University's dark history and teachings while amplifying other survivors’ stories. BJU is a fundamentalist college with its roots in white supremacy and is known for its culture of indoctrination, conformity, a…

1
Beyond BJU - NEW PODCAST 1:32

1+ y ago1:32

1:32

Listen to more survivor's stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms. Join Andrew Pledger as he speaks with survivors who have endured harm at Bob Jones University, a fundamentalist college known for its strict regulations and emphasis on indoctrination, conformity, and control. The influence of BJU extends far beyond i…

1
15 - Finale 24:09

1+ y ago24:09

24:09

More stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms. - Contact me on social media here: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the impact of fundamentalism on society as a whole, shining a light on the negative consequences that arise from rigid and uncompromising belief s…

1
14 - 'Christian's' Reactions to Survivors 52:20

1+ y ago52:20

52:20

In this episode, I speak with Eric Skwarczynski about Christian's reactions when survivors speak up. Eric hosts the Preacher Boys Podcast, a platform for brave survivors to share their stories of physical, mental, and sexual abuse within the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement. He comes on the show to share his opinions on common responses he'…

1
13 - Leaving and Recovering 59:07

1+ y ago59:07

59:07

More stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms. - In this episode, we will hear from survivors who have found healing and hope after leaving Bob Jones University. BJU is a fundamentalist Christian college with a controversial history, and our guests will share their personal journeys of overcoming the trauma and abuse …

1
12 - Cult Experts Insights 1:40:09

1+ y ago1:40:09

1:40:09

I created a summary of my analysis of BJU from the previous episode and I sent it to two cult experts. The cult experts are Rachel Bernstein LMFT and Daniella Mestyanek Young. Rachel Bernstein, therapist, and renowned cult expert shares her insights on Bob Jones University. She is the host of the “IndoctriNation” podcast which covers cults, manipul…

1
Fashion Show Controversy: The Untold Story - PATREON BONUS 4:57

1+ y ago4:57

4:57

Listen to the full episode on my Patreon Here: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this Patreon bonus episode, I dig into the untold story of the infamous BJU fashion show controversy. "The Bob Jones University fashion controversy, also known as “Wrap-Coat-Gate,” arose when trustees and administrators at Bob Jones University grew alarmed over …

1
My BJU Story - PATREON BONUS 5:59

1+ y ago5:59

5:59

Listen to the full episode on my Patreon Here: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this Patreon episode, I share my story of attending Bob Jones University. Connect with Andrew Pledger Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger More stories on 'Beyond BJU' on Apple Podcasts, …

1
11 - Is BJU Really a Cult? 44:59

1+ y ago44:59

44:59

In this captivating episode, we explore Bob Jones University in-depth, examining its characteristics and practices through the lens of cult analysis. Drawing from the renowned works of cult expert Steven Hassan's BITE model and psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton's Criteria for Thought Reform, we unravel the complex dynamics at play within this institut…

1
10 - Survivors Stories 1:16:10

1+ y ago1:16:10

1:16:10

Learn more about BJU on Dr. Camille Lewis's blog WutBJU: https://wutbju.tumblr.com/ - In this episode, we will hear powerful stories of resilience, healing, and growth from survivors who have overcome the trauma and abuse they experienced at Bob Jones University. BJU is a controversial fundamentalist Christian college, and this podcast sheds light …

1
09 - BIPOC at BJU 32:42

1+ y ago32:42

32:42

In this episode, we delve into the experiences of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students at Bob Jones University, an institution with a deeply rooted racist past. Join us as we navigate the complexities of being a minority in an environment that has historically perpetuated discrimination and exclusion. Listen to the personal stori…

1
Finale 3:16

1+ y ago3:16

3:16

Get updates on my new project on Substack: https://speakingupandrewpledger.substack.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
Mindshift - Dr. Clint Heacock 44:21

1+ y ago44:21

44:21

Dr. Clint Heacock is the host of the MindShift Podcast, which is dedicated to raising awareness of the dangers posed by cults and other high-control religious groups, the agenda of the Christian Right and Dominion theology, and providing resources to those suffering from religious trauma syndrome He is an ex-evangelical former pastor and Bible coll…

1
SAFER - Laura Padgett & Jenni Espinosa 52:24

1+ y ago52:24

52:24

Laura Padgett & Jenni Espinosa - Abuse Recovery Coaches, Policy Consultants, Domestic Violence Advocates Laura holds nearly two decades of public policy advocacy and cross-cultural ministry leadership experience. She has turned her passion for helping others heal into abuse recovery coaching through body-mind wellness, mindfulness, and therapeutic …

1
When Religion Hurts You - Dr. Laura Anderson 1:21:51

1+ y ago1:21:51

1:21:51

Dr. Laura Anderson is a therapist, trauma resolution and recovery coach, writer, educator, and creator who specializes in complex trauma with a focus on domestic violence, sexualized violence and religious trauma. She holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a PhD in Mind Body Medicine from Saybrook University with her research fo…

1
After GRACE 37:49

2y ago37:49

37:49

In this episode, an anonymous survivor came forward about their sexual abuse and how it was mishandled at BJU. This person experienced this at BJU many years after the GRACE Report was released to the public. Join the Facebook discussion group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Con…

1
Reading the GRACE Report 1:32:40

2y ago1:32:40

1:32:40

Read the full GRACE Report: http://bjugrace.com/the-grace-investigation-at-bju/the-grace-report-on-bob-jones-university/ In this episode, I read some highlights of the GRACE Report of BJU. The GRACE report is a 301-page report on the mishandling of sex abuse allegations at Bob Jones University. The report shows Bob Jones University responding to ra…

1
08 - Being a Woman, GRACE Report 47:39

2y ago47:39

47:39

Join the discussion group HERE https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ In this episode, we look at how women at Bob Jones University, a conservative Christian school, face challenges and limitations due to strict dress codes and patriarchal teachings. We talk about the ways women are pressured, objectified, and criticized for their appear…

1
07 - BJU and Me: Queer Voices 47:41

2y ago47:41

47:41

Buy the book BJU and Me: Queer Voices from the World's Most Christian University Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify In this group interview, we hear from two of the queer survivors who share their stories in the book BJU and Me: Queer Voices from the World’s Most Christian University. This book, edited by Lance Weldy, a former quee…

1
06 - Being Queer at BJU 1:12:56

2y ago1:12:56

1:12:56

In this powerful episode, we delve into the lived experiences of queer individuals at Bob Jones University, where being queer is viewed as a sin that requires fixing through counseling. Join us as we shed light on the harmful environment created by the spread of homophobia through hateful sermons and the weaponization of scripture. Through candid i…

1
05 - Approach to Mental Health 57:33

2y ago57:33

57:33

Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify - In this eye-opening episode, we shine a spotlight on the concerning approach to mental health at Bob Jones University, where psychological evidence takes a backseat to spiritual beliefs. Join us as we explore the detrimental impact of this perspective, which often blames and shames students for …

1
Stumbling - Brandon Flanery 53:09

2y ago53:09

53:09

Brandon Flanery is an ex-pastor, ex-missionary, ex-evangelical who has been writing and researching the intersection of faith and sexuality, most recently why people are leaving Christianity. He’s been featured in Baptist News Global, the Colorado Springs Indy, and with the University of Colorado. His new book Stumbling: a sassy memoir about coming…

1
04 - Leadership, Control, and Daily Life 1:23:51

2y ago1:23:51

1:23:51

This episode reveals the authoritarian leadership at Bob Jones University. We expose the hidden dynamics of this institution and the struggles of students who face a rigid system of control. We also explore control and daily life as a student at Bob Jones University. We share the stories of former students who reveal the challenges and harms of thi…

1
03 - Teachings, Rules, and Toxic Culture 58:47

2y ago58:47

58:47

This episode exposes the troubling legacy of Bob Jones University, a Christian college that has faced intense scrutiny for its toxic teachings and harmful rules. In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the controversial practices of this institution, shedding light on the experiences of those affected by its ideologies, and its toxic culture…

1
02 - Understanding Fundamentalism 46:22

2y ago46:22

46:22

Fundamentalism refers to a belief system that upholds a strict interpretation of religious or political ideologies, which are considered fundamental to the faith or cause. Fundamentalism is a mindset or an approach to an ideology and can happen in any social group. This episode will specifically examine the needs that fundamentalist Christianity pr…

1
01 - History, Politics 1:15:44

2y ago1:15:44

1:15:44

Bob Jones University is a private Christian university located in Greenville, South Carolina. The university has a long and complex history, marked by controversies and legal battles over issues such as racial segregation, academic freedom, sexual abuse claims, discrimination against LGBTQIA+ students, and the toxicity of religious fundamentalism. …

1
My Deconversion - Dee Murphy - ARCHIVE 1:18:55

2y ago1:18:55

1:18:55

Listen to The Stacie's Mom Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thestaciesmompodcast/streams Dee Murphy from "The Stacie's Mom Podcast" shares her upbringing and religious deconversion. Andrew's Links Become a Patreon member HERE and access all bonus episodes + other benefits. https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Connect with Andrew Pledger through s…

1
Leaving the PCG - Hannah Strickland - ARCHIVE 1:41:11

2y ago1:41:11

1:41:11

Hannah Strickland grew up in the PCG from birth until the age of 15. The organization seemed truly malevolent to them, as it appeared to exploit the less fortunate to provide a lavish lifestyle for the leadership and their headquarters family. Over time, many from their generation decided to leave, but their family, with the exception of their moth…

1
Surviving BJU: A Christian Cult - Trailer #2 1:42

2y ago1:42

1:42

Subscribe here to Surviving BJU: https://lnk.bio/survivingbjupod "Surviving Bob Jones University: A Christian Cult” is a limited podcast by Andrew Pledger (COMING AUGUST 23, 2023). The show is a thought-provoking podcast series that explores the history of Bob Jones University, the psychology of fundamentalism, the criteria for cults, and survivors…

1
Silenced in Eden - Jo Lloyd Johnson 1:11:44

2y ago1:11:44

1:11:44

Jo Lloyd Johnson is a childhood sexual abuse survivor and deconverted Christian who just published her first book “Silenced in Eden.” Her book walks readers through her childhood, the realization of her repressed abuse, and the journey to begin healing. Her path to self-love and acceptance was her journey out of religion. Order her book here: https…

1
From Skepticism to Acceptance - Kristina Mand-Lakhiani 33:45

2y ago33:45

33:45

Kristina Mand-Lakhiani is an international speaker, entrepreneur, artist, philanthropist, and mother of 2 kids. As a co-founder of Mindvalley, a leading publisher in the personal growth industry, Kristina dedicated the last 20 years of her career from teachers like Michael Beckwith, Bob Proctor, Lisa Nichols, and many more. She started her career i…

1
What is Truth? - PATREON BONUS PREVIEW 3:59

2y ago3:59

3:59

Listen to the full episode on my Patreon HERE: https://patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the significance, enigmatic nature, and profound impact that truth has on our understanding of the world. I dig into the psychology of mankind's search for truth, and how cults prey on this drive. Join me as I draw from the…

1
Christian Entertainment w/ Ashleigh Doxtater - Patreon Bonus Preview 6:54

2y ago6:54

6:54

Listen to the full episode on my Patreon HERE: https://patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this Patreon bonus episode, I talk with Ashleigh Doxtater about the Christian entertainment that we both grew up with. We discuss Veggie Tales, Bible Man, Adventures in Odyssey, and much more. Follow Ashleigh on TikTok HERE: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashedendox?_t=8dd…

1
Science and Faith - Haley the Scientist 1:18:16

2y ago1:18:16

1:18:16

Haley Cole is the podcast host of Divinely Modern, a blogger, and scientist with a mission to dismantle patriarchal theology, fight for justice, and discover a healthy spirituality after leaving toxic Christianity. She believes in approaching faith with critical thinking and open-mindedness. To read her blog or learn more about her and her platform…

1
Crucifying the Bible - Deborah Grace 58:40

2y ago58:40

58:40

Deborah Grace spent the better part of her life writing for the legitimacy of the scriptures, but it was in those writings that the truth began to surface. Having been told numerous times over the years that she would one day write a book, Crucifying the Bible is her first published book and the last point of contention she ever imagined taking on.…

1
Growing up in Islam with Armin Navabi 1:54:12

2y ago1:54:12

1:54:12

Podcaster, activist and host of the atheist republic Armin Navabi finally takes a Left at the Valley. His story is one of courage as he escapes Islam in his native Iran Now living in the West, he has become a strong opponent of islam and a courageous voice against oppression Helen does a top 10 on worst dads of history Dawn talks about Spider-Man b…

1
Exorcisms in a Catholic Cult - Ryan Hernandez 1:13:14

2y ago1:13:14

1:13:14

Ryan is still a practicing Catholic but the experiences of trauma he went through have left him wounded. He has been on a healing journey and has been active on a podcast to spread awareness of cult abuse and how religious people with good intentions can turn into fanatics. The name of his podcast is The Truth That Heals Podcast. Connect with Ryan …

1
Christian Camp Stories - Patreon Bonus Preview 3:28

2y ago3:28

3:28

Listen to the full episode HERE for only $3 monthly + access all bonus episodes. https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger - I need your support to continue creating the podcast. In this Patreon bonus episode, I share stories of attending the Christian camp that my IFB church owned. Follow me on Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links …

1
The bible says What Again with Mike Wiseman 1:54:45

2y ago1:54:45

1:54:45

Returning champion Mike Wiseman, host of The Bible says What?!? podcast, returns with his usual dose of hilarity. What prompts him to keep debating theists. Listen in to find out Follow Mike here thebiblesayswhat.com We celebrate the death of Pat Robertson and Helen does a top 10 on him BrentLee talks about christian cancelling themsekves and Troy …

1
The Cultiness of Chick-Fil-A - Patreon Bonus Preview 3:10

2y ago3:10

3:10

Listen to the full episode HERE for only $3 monthly + access all bonus episodes. https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger - I need your support to continue creating the podcast. In this Patreon bonus episode, I explore the cultiness of Chick-Fil- A and signs of a corporate cult. I worked for CFA for over 4 years, and I have some stories. The cognitive…

1
Morningland Church Cult (The Monastery) - Frankie from The Frankie Files Podcast - ARCHIVE 1:35:52

2y ago1:35:52

1:35:52

Frankie from The Frankie Files Podcast discusses her experiences growing up in Morningland Church, which has been renamed The Monastery. Frankie talks about being groomed, trafficked, and abused alongside her twin sister. Connect with Frankie - Listen to her podcast, and follow her on social media. Support Andrew's work on Patreon HERE and access a…

1
Speaking up About Surving extreme Christianity with Andrew Pledger 1:52:37

2y ago1:52:37

1:52:37

Podcaster Andrew Pledger stops by the valley to talk about his story of surviving the cult-like Bob Jones University. His story is poignant and difficult to hear sometimes but is a great example of the problem with religious indoctrination. folow his podcast here https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speaking-up-with-andrew-pledger/id1620395336 It'…

1
From the Children of God to the Military - Daniella Mestyanek Young 1:06:07

2y ago1:06:07

1:06:07

DANIELLA MESTYANEK YOUNG is an American author and speaker who was raised in the religious cult, Children of God. She later served as an intelligence officer for the US Army for over six years, making the rank of Captain, and became one of the first women in US Army history to conduct deliberate ground combat operations when she volunteered to serv…

1
Shiny Happy People (My Thoughts) - Patreon Bonus Preview 10:47

2y ago10:47

10:47

Access this episode on Patreon HERE for only $3 a month! https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger In this exclusive bonus episode, I share my thoughts on the documentary “Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets.” DEFINITELY SPOILERS - The docu-series explores the truth beneath the surface of reality TV's mega-family, The Duggars. The IBLP by Bill Go…

1
The Good Works of RFR with Gayle Jordan 1:43:28

2y ago1:43:28

1:43:28

RFR director Gayle Jordan joins us during the whole show to help us focus on the incredible needs that people who leave the faith face. Their need is dire and YOU can help the good people of RFR and the secular therapy project bring them the resources they need go to https://www.recoveringfromreligion.org and Troy explores the Salem witch trial…

1
Growing Up with the Duggars - Patreon Bonus Preview - Sydney Davis Jr. Jr. 7:40

2y ago7:40

7:40

Access the full episode on Patreon HERE Also here: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Sydney Davis Jr. Jr. has been performing standup comedy and storytelling for 15 years. She is the host of the podcast "Growing Up Fundie," as well as a faculty member of The Second City Training Center, and Third Coast Comedy Club. Her comedy special "TRASH" is…

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