Surviving Bob Jones University: A Christian Cult

Listen to more episodes on Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism In this episode, host Andrew Pledger speaks with Dr. Camille Lewis about her new book 'Klandamentalism.' The conversation delves into the historical and contemporary ties between Christian fundamentalism, white supremacy, and authoritarianism connected to Bob Jones University. They discuss survivor stories, the influence of Bob Jones University on American society, and recent updates about the university, including changes in rules and significant incidents. Dr. Lewis also sheds light on the psychology behind the loyalty to these systems and the societal implications. The episode finishes with reflections on the current socio-political climate and recommendations for further action. Order Klandamentalism: https://www.amazon.com/Klandamentalism-Intersection-Revivalism-Supremacy-University/dp/1638041563 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.

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. In this episode, she shares five facts BJU does not want you to know. She is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. She holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University in Rhetorical Studies with a minor in American Studies. Her book, 'Romancing the Difference: Kenneth Burke, Bob Jones University, and the Rhetoric of Religious Fundamentalism', was a scholarly attempt to stretch the boundaries of both Kenneth Burke’s rhetorical theory on tragedy and comedy as well as stretch conservative evangelical’s separatist frames. Her second book, 'White Nationalism and Faith: Statements and Counter-Statements', tracks the religious arguments for and against white nationalism in America since the Civil War. She is currently working on a book entitled Klandamentalism. After nearly twenty years in the classroom, Camille is thrilled to be teaching Rhetoric & Strategy, Argumentation, Rhetorical Criticism, Great Speeches, and Public Speaking at Furman. (from Furman’s website) Follow Camille's blog WutBJU Listen to the Surviving BJU Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Other Platforms Andrew's Links FB Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. In this episode, she provides her expertise and experience on the teachings, theology, and heresies of BJU. She is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. She holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University in Rhetorical Studies with a minor in American Studies. Her book, 'Romancing the Difference: Kenneth Burke, Bob Jones University, and the Rhetoric of Religious Fundamentalism', was a scholarly attempt to stretch the boundaries of both Kenneth Burke’s rhetorical theory on tragedy and comedy as well as stretch conservative evangelical’s separatist frames. Her second book, 'White Nationalism and Faith: Statements and Counter-Statements', tracks the religious arguments for and against white nationalism in America since the Civil War. She is currently working on a book entitled Klandamentalism. After nearly twenty years in the classroom, Camille is thrilled to be teaching Rhetoric & Strategy, Argumentation, Rhetorical Criticism, Great Speeches, and Public Speaking at Furman. (from Furman’s website) Follow Camille's blog WutBJU Listen to the Surviving BJU Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Other Platforms Andrew's Links FB Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. In this episode, she provides an overview of the history of Bob Jones University. She is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. She holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University in Rhetorical Studies with a minor in American Studies. Her book, 'Romancing the Difference: Kenneth Burke, Bob Jones University, and the Rhetoric of Religious Fundamentalism', was a scholarly attempt to stretch the boundaries of both Kenneth Burke’s rhetorical theory on tragedy and comedy as well as stretch conservative evangelical’s separatist frames. Her second book, 'White Nationalism and Faith: Statements and Counter-Statements', tracks the religious arguments for and against white nationalism in America since the Civil War. She is currently working on a book entitled Klandamentalism. After nearly twenty years in the classroom, Camille is thrilled to be teaching Rhetoric & Strategy, Argumentation, Rhetorical Criticism, Great Speeches, and Public Speaking at Furman. (from Furman’s website) Follow Camille's blog WutBJU Listen to the Surviving BJU Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Other Platforms Andrew's Links FB Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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, and control. The university's influence extends beyond its campus, impacting Christian schooling, politics, Biblical counseling, and evangelical Christianity. The school also serves as a hub for churches, schools, and camps that spread its abusive teachings and practices. Listen to the experiences of survivors from BJU and its affiliated ministries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 its gates, serving as the hub for numerous churches, schools, and camps operated by BJU graduates that continue to propagate harmful teachings and controlling dynamics. This podcast provides a platform for survivors to share their experiences at BJU and its affiliated organizations. - Subscribe to stay updated - Premiering early 2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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's heard toward survivors speaking up. One example we use is a post from BJU grad Shelly Hamilton which is linked here. Follow Eric on Facebook, and Instagram 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 they experienced while attending the university. Through their stories, we will learn about the challenges they faced, the ways in which they have found healing, and the support systems that have helped them along the way. This is a powerful and inspiring conversation about resilience, growth, and the power of community in the face of adversity. Connect with Andrew Pledger Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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, manipulators, and systems of control. For 30 years, she has helped former cult members and those who have loved ones in cults and highly manipulative relationships. Rachel has helped people from over 300 cults throughout her career. She provides individual counseling, family counseling, and, when possible, group therapy for former cult members. She also helps families trying to reach out to their loved ones in the cult. Listen to the IndoctriNation Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms. Daniella Mestyanek Young is an American author and speaker who was raised in the religious sex 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 serve on a Female Engagement Team and received the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. Daniella lives with her husband and daughter in Maryland and holds a Master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the Harvard Extension School. Buy her memoir Uncultured: https://www.amazon.com/Uncultured-Memoir-Daniella-Mestyanek-Young/dp/1250280117 Follow her on TikTok to learn her 10 part definition of a cult: https://www.tiktok.com/@daniellamestyanekyoung 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/7261048166690re81600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 systems. I also share some final thoughts in the finale. Connect with Andrew Pledger Social Media: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 a wrap coat designed by a student for a class project. They publicly called the student’s work sacrilegious, blasphemous, dishonoring to Jesus, offensive, and egregious. The controversy may appear to have spun out of nowhere, but given the history and perspectives that have been woven into the fabric of BJU for decades, it was only a matter of time before a student in the fashion design department would pull the wrong strings. (Sources: Baptist News, Get Religion) 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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, Spotify, and other platforms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 institution. We meticulously examine the various elements of the BITE model, including behavior control, information control, thought control, and emotional control, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the institution's influence and power dynamics. We delve into the ways in which Bob Jones University exhibits traits identified in Lifton's Criteria for Thought Reform. 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 on the experiences of those who have survived this high-control environment. Our guests will share their personal journeys and the challenges they faced while attending BJU, as well as the ways in which they have found healing and hope after leaving the university. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex and often overlooked ways in which cults can harm vulnerable individuals and communities. 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 stories and reflections of BIPOC individuals who have walked the halls of Bob Jones University. We explore the challenges they faced in a predominantly white institution, the isolation they experienced, and the impact of limited representation within the student body. 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 rape and abuse claims with woeful ignorance of state law, a near-complete lack of training in psychology and trauma counseling best practices, and an overarching campus culture that blames women and girls for any abuse they suffer, and which paints all sexuality-from rape to consensual sex-as equivalent misdeeds.(Source) Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Join the Facebook discussion group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 appearance, and how they are indoctrinated to obey male leadership. We also reveal how representatives of the school mistreated and blamed sexual abuse survivors, and how an outside organization called GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment) investigated and published a report that exposed the school's mishandling of sexual abuse claims. One of the survivors, Erin Burchwell, tells us her story of the trauma she endured, and how the school treated her when she came forward to be interviewed for the GRACE Report. Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify 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, Spotify, and other platforms Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 queer student of BJU himself, provides behind-the-scenes explanations from nineteen former BJU students from the past few decades who now identify as LGBTQ+. They write about their experiences, reflect on their relationships with the religious institution, and describe their vulnerability under a controlling regime. The survivors who sit down with me are Lance Weldy, and Andrew Bolden. Join the discussion group HERE https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 interviews with former students, we explore the challenges faced by queer individuals within the confines of Bob Jones University. We discuss the damaging impact of a religious doctrine that labels queerness as inherently sinful and in need of correction, perpetuating a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ students. Join the Facebook discussion group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1153866318625322/ 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, Spotify, and other platforms. Sources: https://www.tumblr.com/survivingbjupodcast/726104816669081600/sources?source=share Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.