Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism

Latest Episodes:

Breaking the Silence (GRACE Report Interviewee) w/ Sheri Cotuna Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful episode, Sheri Cotuna shares her harrowing experience of sexual abuse while a student at Bob Jones University and the subsequent mishandling of her case by the university administration. Sheri is featured in GRACE's investigation report of Bob Jones University. In the episode, she recounts her traumatic encounter, the dismissive and shaming responses from university officials, and the lack of support and justice. She highlights the systemic issues within the institution, touching upon the broader pattern of abuse cover-ups and the school's harmful teachings on accountability and counseling. Despite the trauma and abuse, Sheri's story is a beacon of hope and advocacy, urging other survivors to seek real help and challenge the system.

10 years after GRACE abuse report, survivors fear too little has changed at Bob Jones (RNS): https://religionnews.com/2024/12/05/10-years-after-bob-jones-grace-abuse-report-survivors-fear-too-little-has-changed/

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*Some audio is regenerated by AI because of mispronunciations and/or recording issues

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Season Finale/Update Dec 16, 2024

Show notes

In this clip, I announce a break and the outsourcing of editing for recorded episodes of season two. I express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported and listened, especially the courageous survivors who shared their stories. I appreciate your continued support on Patreon to expedite the episode releases and wish everyone a wonderful holiday season. See you next season!

JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

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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

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10th Anniversary of the GRACE Report - Uncovered Berg "Counseling" Materials Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

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, I discuss the ongoing issues and changes at Bob Jones University, as highlighted in an article by the Religion News Service. You'll hear raw, unedited sermons and survivor testimonies, so I urge listeners to be cautious as the content can be very triggering.

The GRACE Report: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/35lse6bgrurtf7vcv34jo/20141211GRACEFinalSearchable.pdf?rlkey=87yfiptn589lt6rd44juh8aen&st=aarw6ads&dl=0

RNS article: https://religionnews.com/2024/12/05/10-years-after-bob-jones-grace-abuse-report-survivors-fear-too-little-has-changed/

Reading the GRACE Report episode

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-bju-exposing-fundamentalism/id1705924428?i=1000652516876

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Trump Presidency: A Cult Survivor's Perspective w/ Andrew Pledger - IndoctriNation Podcast Nov 08, 2024

Show notes

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 significance of community and self-care for those affected. Andrew shares his insights from his experiences within the Independent Fundamentalist Baptist movement, drawing parallels between cult dynamics and the current political climate. They emphasize the importance of maintaining personal well-being, fostering genuine connections, and staying grounded amidst uncertainty.

Listen to the IndoctriNation Podcast: https://linktr.ee/indoctrination

Andrew's Links: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links

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Discovering My Queer Identity - Lane White Oct 28, 2024

Show notes

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 impact of fundamentalism on personal identity, his quest for authenticity, and his resilience in reconciling faith with being LGBTQ.

Jacob’s Ladder (SC LGBTQ+ Resource List) https://www.qrcodechimp.com/page/jacobsladder?v=chk1719766347

Read Lane’s story in BJU and Me: https://www.amazon.com/BJU-Me-Voices-Christian-University/dp/0820361593

JOIN MY PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger

Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/

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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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just A Number - Jay Cozzini Oct 14, 2024

Show notes

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=chk1719766347

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Never Good Enough - Daisy Sep 30, 2024

Show notes

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 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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dorm Counselor’s Confessions: The Reality of BJU Life - Amanda Koth Sep 16, 2024

Show notes

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Well-Trained Wife - Tia Levings - Special Episode Aug 26, 2024

Show notes

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=9781250288288

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 4. Exposing The Wilds: Uncovered Counseling Booklet - Tabitha Frady Aug 08, 2024

Show notes

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/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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.