We Are One Podcast

Latest Episodes:

The Bethel Files ; Herman Fountains Corrupt Academy & The Stories That Must Be Told - Micah’s Story Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful continuation of The Bethel Files, Olivia sits down with Bethel Boys survivor Micah, who bravely shares his harrowing journey. Micah reveals the shocking truth of how he was drugged, woke up believing he was headed to Disney, and instead found himself trapped at Bethel. He opens up about the lasting trauma, the intense PTSD he endured, and the therapy that helped him reclaim his life. Micah’s story is one of resilience, courage, and hope—showing that healing is possible even after the darkest of experiences.

The Bethel Files: Herman Fountain’s Corrupt Academy & The Stories That Must be told - Justin’s Story Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Olivia sits down with Justin, a survivor of Bethel Boys Academy, to share his story. Justin opens up about his life before Bethel, what led to him being sent there, and the abuse he endured while inside. He also sheds light on what he personally witnessed William Knott do and explains why his mom and cousin ended up moving to Bethel and working there.

Justin’s story is another powerful example of the corruption and mistreatment that took place under Herman Fountain’s leadership. His voice, like so many others, deserves to be heard.

Tune in to hear Justin’s story and help us continue exposing the truth about Bethel Boys Academy.

The Bethel Files ; Herman Fountain’s Corrupt Academy & The Stories That Must Be Told - Dave’s Story Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful episode, we kick off our new series with guest Dave Bowsher. Dave opens up about his time at Bethel Academy in Lucedale, Mississippi, shedding light on the abuse and trauma he endured. Together, Dave and Olivia discuss the school’s founder, Herman Fountain, the involvement of William Knott, and other facilities that continue to profit off pain and suffering. They also dive into the broader issue of the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI) and explore how we can take action to create stronger laws that protect children from these harmful institutions.

Dave was also featured in Teen Torture Inc. on HBO Max, so be sure to check that out for more insight into the fight against abusive programs.

Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that exposes the reality behind these so-called “reform” programs and what we can do to make a difference.

From Hymns to Freedom- Christiana & Abigail Miller Story Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful episode, we sit down with a mother-daughter music duo who found their voices not just in song, but in freedom. Once deeply immersed in the fundamentalist world, they share their journey of breaking away—from singing rigid hymns in church to creating music that reflects their true selves. Together, they open up about the struggles of leaving behind legalism, the challenges of rebuilding their faith and identity, and how music became both their refuge and their rebellion. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about breaking free, finding harmony, and reclaiming the melody of life on their own terms.

All right to the music belong to Christiana Miller Music.

Seeing the Bigger Picture; Standing on the truth - Paul Millers Story Feb 25, 2025

Show notes

n this episode, we sit down with Paul Miller, a former member of The Millers, a well-known evangelistic singing family that traveled to over 500 IFB churches, colleges, and events across the U.S. Paul opens up about how he became involved with the IFB and IBLP, embracing the movement’s extreme standards and tightly controlled lifestyle.

We explore the growing trend of people walking away from fundamentalism—what is driving them to leave? What eye-opening experiences led Paul and others to question the system they once followed? We also did a Q&A with Paul, where he answers some of your questions!

Stay tuned for Thursday, when we sit down with his wife and daughter to hear their experiences—what it was like to be a woman in the IFB, the pressures of evangelical ministry, and their firsthand encounters with some of the most extreme aspects of the IFB world.

Seeing the Bigger Picture; Maybe you should stop shaking that bush - Tony Cuellar’s Story Feb 18, 2025

Show notes

Tony Cuellar joins us to share his unique experience growing up in the IFB as a missionary kid with well-known parents who ran an evangelical children’s program—his father dressed as Barney the Clown and his mother as Happy the Lion. If your church ever hosted them, you’ll want to tune in.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the IFB bus ministry, exposing the division it creates between bus kids and church members. Tony also sheds light on the deeper issue: the IFB’s patriarchal system and why true change is impossible when power remains in the hands of controlling pastors.

Join us as Tony speaks candidly about his journey and the dangers of a system designed to protect itself above all else.

Seeing The Bigger Picture; The Movement Failed Me But Jesus Didn’t - Trevor’s Story Feb 11, 2025

Show notes

In this eye-opening episode of Seeing the Bigger Picture, we sit down with Pastor Trevor WayBright as he shares his powerful journey of faith. Trevor reflects on his experiences within the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) world, the challenges of breaking free from toxic systems, and how he rediscovered a more authentic faith outside of the legalistic framework. His story is a moving reminder that while religious systems may fail, hope and healing are still possible. Join us as we explore what it truly means to separate faith from harmful practices and find freedom on the other side.

Seeing the Bigger Picture; Jesus doesn’t need the IFB to love you - John York’s Story Feb 04, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with John York, a pastor who was once deeply entrenched in the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) world. Growing up as a pastor’s kid (PK), John was raised with the weight of expectations—striving to become the “perfect Christian” under the strict rules and standards of the IFB system.

John opens up about his journey of deconstruction, the pivotal moments that led him to question everything, and the difficult decisions that ultimately cost him everything. But through the grace of God, he found redemption, restored his family, and now leads with a renewed perspective—one rooted in authenticity and the true love of Christ.

Thank you, John, for sharing your powerful story and helping bring awareness to the realities of life within the IFB. Your voice is an important part of this series, and we are so grateful for your honesty and heart.

Raising the Volume: Breaking the Silence on Teen Pregnancy and Abuse in the Church Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Barbara, who shares her powerful story of resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges. At just 17 years old, Barbara found herself navigating teen pregnancy, enduring heartbreaking loss, and grappling with the judgment of her church community. After experiencing a devastating miscarriage at 5-6 months pregnant while at summer camp, she returned home only to face the scrutiny of the church deacons. Just one week after her father’s absence, they demanded she stand before the congregation to ask for forgiveness—but her mother refused to let that happen.

Join us as Barbara recounts these life-altering moments and shares how they shaped her journey, leading her to the person she is today. This is a story of heartbreak, courage, and defying expectations.

The Story They Tried To Silence ; Pregnant at Nine, Mother at Ten - Jules Story Jan 14, 2025

Show notes

Today, we’re joined by Jules, a survivor with a story that is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring. Growing up in foster care, Jules faced unimaginable abuse at home and in church. Her entire childhood was shaped by pain, and at just nine years old, that abuse resulted in her becoming pregnant. At ten, she became a mother.

Instead of receiving the support and protection she desperately needed, Jules was failed by the very people who should have helped her. Her baby, just 10 months old, was taken from her—an unthinkable loss that still weighs heavily on her heart.

Through the darkest of times, Jules has shown incredible strength, courage, and faith. In this episode, she shares her journey of survival, the enduring pain of her child’s disappearance, and how she has fought to reclaim her life despite all odds.

Jules, thank you

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

We Are One Podcast

Related Podcasts

1

2

3

4

5

6