Now that we’ve been doing this podcast for a year and a half (!), we figured it was time for a re-introduction. Anna and April talk about what we do on this podcast–we break down the bad theology we learned in our evangelical adolescences, and share our journeys of learning new ways to look at biblical texts, sexual ethics, systems of power, and more. We also interview all kinds of wonderful people–mostly LGBTQ+ folks and/or people who have left toxic religious environments, but we’re always excited about featuring any voice who has something to say about religious or spiritual identity. We also give some recommendations of where you should start listening–if you want to hear personal stories, check out “Let’s Talk About Purity Culture.” If you want to dig deep into theology, try out one of our Bible Dyke Deep Dives. And honestly, all our guests are phenomenal, but our first two interviews (Amy Kósa and Alicia Crosby, respectively) will always be close to our hearts. Here are some updated bios as well: April Little (she/her) is a queer Christian and ex-evangelical who is studying for her Master’s degree in Theology and Culture: Community Development at The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology. She is passionate about LGBTQ+ inclusion and liberation in the church and any other religious/spiritual spaces. She is in the process of writing a memoir about healing from the religious trauma of growing up in an evangelical church that led her to repress her sexuality. She believes that vulnerable storytelling is the foundation for creating change in the world, and she loves facilitating spaces for people to share their stories. She wants to help create a world where all LGBTQ+ folks, particularly youth, know that they are beloved by God, and can experience love among thriving communities (whether they are communities of faith or not). April is also a big nerd when it comes to musicals, the French language, and the Bible. Anna Dawahare (she/they) is a student, creative, and nerd living in beautiful Southern California. She is currently attending Fordham University (online, because that’d be a long commute) and is part-way through getting her Masters in Social Work. Upon graduating, Anna wants to practice with LGBTQ+ youth and those harmed by religious trauma, as well as obtain her license to private practice. They love being able to share the stories of their friends on Reclaiming the Garden as well as researching the variety of topics brought up (Anna is a sucker for a good research product because, as mentioned above, she is a nerd). Their life purpose is to be the snarky, genderqueer older sibling they needed when they were younger. When she isn’t studying, working at her internship, or podcasting, Anna sings with Angel City Chorale, volunteers with Q Christian Fellowship, and drinks copious amounts of tea. The way to her heart is a nice jasmine green tea. Anna aspires to be Uncle Iroh- as we all should. We have merch! Get your Bible Dyke Energy Tee or mug here: https://reclaiming-the-garden.creator-spring.com/ Our social media: @reclaimingthegarden on Insta, @RtGardenPodcast on Twitter, and Reclaiming the Garden on Facebook. Our personal accounts: @thatpunchabletheaternerd, @April_TheWriter (April is on Twitter and Insta). Also, our podcast account follows a bunch of awesome folks + podcasts in the exvangelical/deconstruction world and progressive Christian world, so if you’re looking for more resources, that’s a great place to start!
