Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism

Dec 11 2024 46 ep. 54 mins 18

Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism Podcast artwork

Join Andrew Pledger in exposing Bob Jones University, a school known for its culture of indoctrination and control. BJU is a fundamentalist Christian college with roots in white supremacy and authoritarianism. The podcast features survivors' stories from the university, and its affiliated churches, camps, and day schools. The show also explores BJU's influence beyond the university and its impact on American society. This show is a continuation of the limited series "Surviving BJU: A Christian Cult.”

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10th Anniversary of the GRACE Report - Uncovered Berg "Counseling" Materials

Dec 11 2024 199 mins

Today marks the 10th anniversary of the Grace Report, which investigated Bob Jones University's mishandling of sexual abuse claims. In this episode, I share previously unreleased audio files that reveal the harmful ‘counseling’ by Jim Berg. These files were originally tapes that were given to Sheri Cotuna by Berg for further ‘counseling” for her sexual assault. Additionally

Religious Trauma is Trauma - Dr. Laura Anderson - Special Episode

Nov 25 2024 84 mins

This episode features Dr. Laura Anderson, founder of the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery. Dr. Anderson discusses healing from religious trauma, her book 'When Religion Hurts You,' and the challenges of maintaining relationships post-religion. We address internalized fundamentalism and emphasize setting boundaries and fostering consent, respect, and mutual understanding in

Trump Presidency: A Cult Survivor's Perspective w/ Andrew Pledger - IndoctriNation Podcast

Nov 08 2024 34 mins

In this special episode of the Indoctrination podcast, host Rachel Bernstein discusses the aftermath of the election with Andrew Pledger. They share their initial reactions and delve into the impact of the election results on survivors of high-control groups. The conversation explores the emotional turmoil, fear, and triggers associated with the election, highlighting the significa

Ep. 25 - Discovering My Queer Identity - Lane White

Oct 28 2024 51 mins

In this episode, Lane White, a transgender individual and a former BJU student, shares his journey of self-discovery. Lane recounts his upbringing in a Baptist household, his experiences at BJU, and the challenges of conforming to its strict rules. He discusses navigating gender identity, coming to terms with his sexuality, and facing expulsion. Lane's story sheds light on the impa

Ep. 24 - Just A Number - Jay Cozzini

Oct 14 2024 64 mins

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

Recognizing Spiritual Abuse - PATREON BONUS PREVIEW

Oct 07 2024 10 mins

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 sourc

Ep. 23 - Never Good Enough - Daisy

Sep 30 2024 44 mins

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

Ep. 22 - Dorm Counselor’s Confessions: The Reality of BJU Life - Amanda Koth

Sep 16 2024 70 mins

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 regulat

Five Unmet Needs in Fundamentalism - PATREON BONUS PREVIEW

Sep 02 2024 8 mins

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 connect

A Well-Trained Wife - Tia Levings - Special Episode

Aug 26 2024 42 mins

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 o