Un-holier Than Thou Podcast

Jenny Smith, Surviving Podcast Network
  • 4.6 (9)
  • Society & Culture

Unholier Than Thou is a podcast for people who are done blindly believing. We challenge religion, question cultural norms, and dismantle the belief systems that shape, and often control, how people think.  This isn't surface-level conversation. This is deconstruction, disruption, and uncomfortable truth. From cult dynamics and religious conditioning to taboo societal issues, we go where most people won't.  If you're ready to think for yourself instead of being told what to think -  Welcome to the conversations you weren't supposed to have. #exvangelical #deconstruction #religioustrauma #SpiritualAbuse  #FaithDeconstruction  #MentalHealthMatters  #CrimeAndConsequences

  1. 2d ago

    You left religion. Now who are you? | Audra Phelps

    Leaving a religious system can change far more than what you believe. It can force you to question your identity, your values, your relationships, your role as a parent, and even your understanding of who you are. In this episode of Unholier Than Thou, I’m joined by Audra Phelps, who works with former Mormon mothers navigating life beyond the structures and expectations of the LDS Church. We talk about one of the most overlooked parts of religious deconstruction: rebuilding your identity after you've spent years being told who you're supposed to be. Who are you when your religion no longer defines you? How do you figure out which parts of yourself are genuinely yours? What happens when the roles, rules, and expectations you've built your life around suddenly don't fit anymore? And how do you begin creating a life based on your own values, choices, and sense of self? Audra shares her perspective on identity, motherhood, religious conditioning, self-discovery, and the process of becoming the person you were never given permission to be. If you've ever questioned your faith, walked away from a religious system, or found yourself wondering "Who am I now?" after deconstruction, this conversation is for you. Connect with Audra: Links to Audra's website, social media, and RECLAIMED program can be found in the show notes. If you enjoyed this episode, like, follow, subscribe, and leave a review. And share this episode with someone who is trying to figure out who they are on the other side of religion. Unholier Than Thou Podcast is about questioning the narratives we inherited, challenging our assumptions, and giving ourselves permission to think for ourselves...without fear, shame, or apology. #ReligiousDeconstruction #ExMormon #MormonDeconstruction #LeavingReligion #ReligiousTrauma #Deconstruction #UnholierThanThou https://www.tiktok.com/@mamaaudra?_r=1&_t=ZP-98y2Yjw5HZ9 https://mamaaudra.com/ Support the show

  2. Aug 11

    What Happens When We Die? A Conversation on Death, Deconstruction & the Search for Truth | Melissa Farley

    What happens when we die? It's one of the oldest questions humanity has ever asked, and in this episode of Unholier Than Thou, Melissa Farley and I explore it through the lens of faith, deconstruction, and curiosity. Melissa, co-host of The Morning Show, shares her journey of growing up in a high-control religious environment, untangling inherited beliefs, and rebuilding a life rooted in authenticity. We discuss the grief, identity shifts, and healing that often accompany leaving rigid belief systems, and why asking difficult questions isn't something to fear—it's part of being human. Our conversation naturally turns toward death after discussing a guest Melissa interviewed on The Morning Show who shared a remarkable near-death experience. That discussion opens the door to Melissa's upcoming book, which explores death, consciousness, and one of the greatest mysteries we'll all eventually face. While the title of the book hasn't been released yet, Melissa offers a glimpse into the questions driving her research and why this subject has become such a meaningful part of her work. We also talk about the power of storytelling, what Melissa has learned from interviewing people from all walks of life, and why staying curious may be one of the most important things we can do. If you've ever questioned your beliefs, wondered what lies beyond this life, or found yourself searching for truth outside the boundaries of certainty, this conversation is for you. Melissa is also the founder of Stronger Today, a social media branding and marketing company that helps small businesses and personal brands grow their online presence with confidence and authenticity. You can also catch her as the co-host of The Morning Show. You'll find links to connect with Melissa, The Morning Show, and Stronger Today in the show notes. Hashtags: #UnholierThanThou #WhatHappensWhenWeDie #Death #Afterlife #Deconstruction #ReligiousTrauma #FaithDeconstruction #Spirituality #Consciousness #NearDeathExperience #QuestionEverything #ThinkForYourself #Podcast #YouTubePodcast #Healing #SearchForTruth #HighControlReligion #Curiosity #Truth #Exvangelical Stronger Today - Marketing & Branding Strategies The Morning Show Instagram - The Morning Show Instagram - Connect with Melissa Farley Support the show

  3. Aug 4

    She Told the Church. They Did Nothing. | Alicia Hall's Story25 YEARS LATER...

    She was only 9 years old when she says her pastor's son and piano teacher, Travis Huse, sexually abused her. When she finally told the pastor's wife years later, she says the church failed to act. In this powerful episode, Alicia Hall shares how she survived childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, religious betrayal, depression, and addiction - and how she ultimately helped bring her abuser to justice. Travis Huse was later convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison. His father, former pastor Scott Huse, was also convicted and sentenced in a separate child sexual assault case. This conversation is about far more than trauma. It's about courage, resilience, accountability, and rebuilding a life after unimaginable betrayal. Topics discussed: Childhood sexual abuse Religious trauma Church abuse Domestic violence Justice for survivors Trauma recovery Healing Setting boundaries Addiction recovery Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, and addiction. Follow Alicia on TikTok: @AliciaHall #ChurchAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #SurvivorStory #ChildhoodAbuse #Justice #TraumaRecovery #Healing #DomesticViolence #TrueStory #Podcast https://kmph.com/news/nation-world/father-and-son-ex-pastor-duo-accused-of-sexually-assaulting-children-church-christian-antigo-wisconsin?video=adaf85ef2c40490f9b1cd25a65a7260f&jwsource=cl Support the show

  4. Jul 28

    How Cults Control Your Mind | Isabella Young on Brainwashing, Trauma & Freedom

    How do cults gain control over people's minds...and what does it take to break free? In this powerful episode of Unholier Than Thou, I sit down with Isabella Young, author of Putting on the Armour of God and New Human of New Earth, to discuss her extraordinary journey out of a Messianic cult led by her former husband. Bella shares her firsthand experience with coercive control, religious manipulation, fear-based programming, narcissistic abuse, and the devastating tragedy that forever changed her life. We explore how high-control groups use fear, gaslighting, and cognitive dissonance to keep people trapped, why leaving is so difficult, and what healing can look like after escaping. We also discuss the inspiration behind her books, the importance of nervous system regulation, trauma recovery, reclaiming personal sovereignty, and learning to trust yourself again after years of manipulation. Whether you've experienced religious trauma, are deconstructing your faith, have left a controlling relationship, or simply want to better understand how cults operate, this conversation offers insight, compassion, and hope. In this episode, we discuss: How cults use fear and mind controlReligious trauma and coercive controlBrainwashing, gaslighting, and cognitive dissonanceNarcissistic abuse and manipulationHealing after traumaNervous system regulationRebuilding self-trustThe inspiration behind Putting on the Armour of God and New Human of New EarthBooks: Putting on the Armour of God New Human of New Earth New Human of New Earth - Book Putting On The Armor of God - Book https://feelingbetternaturally.love/ Feeling Better Naturally - YouTube If this episode challenged your thinking or encouraged your own journey of healing, please subscribe to Unholier Than Thou, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with someone who might benefit from it. Your support helps these conversations reach more people who are questioning, healing, and learning to think for themselves. #deconstruction #cultprogramming #cults #exvangelical #religioustrauma #traumarecovery #grounding #newage #consciousness Support the show

  5. Jul 21

    Former Worship Leader Reveals Why She Left Christianity | Church Hurt, Abuse & Deconstruction

    What happens when the church that taught you about God also becomes the source of your deepest wounds? In this episode of Unholier Than Thou, I sit down with Nikki, a former worship leader whose journey began in a Pentecostal church at 17 years old. After entering an abusive relationship with the pastor’s son, she found herself in a church culture that protected leadership instead of victims, leaving her to wrestle with questions that would follow her for years. After escaping that relationship, Nikki rebuilt her life, found a healthy marriage, and returned to church, eventually serving in worship ministry alongside her husband. But new experiences inside church leadership forced her to confront difficult questions about faith, authority, abuse, and authenticity...ultimately leading her to deconstruct Christianity. In this conversation, we discuss: • Domestic abuse and spiritual abuse • Church culture and purity teachings • Victim blaming in religious communities • Worship ministry behind the scenes • Deconstruction and leaving Christianity • Healing after religious trauma • Finding freedom after faith Whether you’re deconstructing, questioning your beliefs, healing from church hurt, or simply interested in hearing another perspective, Nikki’s story is one of resilience, courage, and reclaiming your voice.  Connect with Nikki: https://www.instagram.com/nikkileaks_exposingabuse?igsh=b2xiY2lrejdmMXd0 https://www.tiktok.com/@nikkileaks_exposingabuse?_r=1&_t=ZP-98CVrlFBII2 If this conversation resonates with you, please like, subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. #Deconstruction #ReligiousTrauma #ChurchHurt #FormerChristian #Exvangelical #SpiritualAbuse #Healing #FaithJourney #UnholierThanThouPodcast Support the show

  6. Jul 14

    Why are so many Christians deconstructing their faith? With Dr. Amanda Udis-Kessler-

    In this episode of Unholier Than Thou, I sit down with Dr. Amanda Udis-Kessler- a progressive Christian pastor, sociologist, ethicist, author, and sacred music composer-for a thoughtful conversation about one of the most debated movements in Christianity today. Together, we explore: What progressive Christianity actually isWhy so many people are leaving evangelicalismThe role politics has played in modern ChristianityWhether Jesus and Paul emphasized the same messageHow progressive Christians approach the BibleWhy faith and science don't have to be enemiesWhat deconstruction really means - and where it can leadWhether you're a conservative Christian, a progressive Christian, deconstructing your faith, reconstructing it, or simply curious about the conversations reshaping the Church, this episode invites you to think critically and engage with a perspective you may not have considered. This isn't a debate. It's an honest conversation about faith, doubt, politics, Scripture, and what it means to follow Jesus in today's world. If you enjoy conversations that challenge assumptions and encourage deeper thinking, subscribe to Unholier Than Thou, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who's asking big questions about faith. #Deconstructionn #ProgressiveChristianity #Christianity #Exvangelical #FaithJourney #ReligiousTrauma #ChurchHurt #Bible #Jesus #Evangelical #ChristianPodcast #Religion #FaithDeconstruction #SpiritualGrowth #UnholierThanThou  Connect with Dr. Alyssa: Website: https://edgeeap.com/ Email Dr. Alyssa International Association for Suicide Prevention  988 Suicide Hotline Support the show

  7. Jul 7

    The Grief We Never Prepare For | Grief, Suicide & Healing with Dr. Alyssa

    When the Helpers Hurt: Grief, Suicide & Finding Hope | With Dr. Alyssa The deconstruction and survivor communities are grieving the heartbreaking loss of Ryan Stollar—a respected advocate, writer, and tireless voice for abuse survivors, child protection, and those harmed within evangelical and homeschooling communities. Rather than speculate about Ryan's personal struggles, this episode is an opportunity to have an honest and compassionate conversation about grief, suicide, trauma, and hope. Joining me is Dr. Alyssa, who not only shares her professional expertise but also bravely opens up about her own experience with suicidal thoughts. Together, we explore how grief affects us, why suicide leaves behind such complex emotions, how religious trauma and deconstruction can impact mental health, and how we can better support one another through life's darkest moments. Whether you're grieving the loss of someone you love, processing your own pain, supporting a friend, or simply trying to understand mental health more deeply, this conversation is for you. In this episode we discuss: • The unique grief that follows suicide • Religious trauma and its impact on mental health • Why people who help others can still struggle silently • Warning signs that someone may be in crisis • How to support someone who is grieving • Finding hope when life feels overwhelming This episode contains discussions of suicide, depression, and grief. Please listen with care and take breaks if needed. Crisis Resources If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available.  United States & Canada Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Outside the U.S. Please contact your local emergency services or your country's suicide prevention crisis service. You are not alone. Help is available, and your life matters. If this episode encouraged you, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who may need to hear this conversation. #MentalHealth #SuicidePrevention #Grief #ReligiousTrauma #Deconstruction #FaithDeconstruction #TraumaRecovery #Healing #Podcast #UnholierThanThou Support the show

  8. Jun 30

    Part 2: Who Really Runs the World? | Tim Kelly

    In Part 2 of my conversation with Tim Kelly, we go even deeper into the theories, philosophies, and historical narratives surrounding power, consciousness, centralized control, and humanity's future. This episode explores topics ranging from ancient civilizations and secret societies to central banking, free energy, spirituality, independent living, consciousness, media narratives, and the importance of thinking for yourself. Whether you agree, disagree, or fall somewhere in between, the goal of this conversation isn't to tell you what to believe—it's to encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and meaningful dialogue. In this episode we discuss: Who may really be influencing world governments Central banking and global power structures Ancient civilizations, Atlantis, and historical theories Consciousness, vibration, and personal sovereignty Why dependency creates control Free energy and suppressed technologies The role of media and political division Healing, self-sufficiency, and reclaiming personal freedom Why questioning everything matters What are your thoughts? Do you think humanity is waking up, or are we becoming more divided than ever? 👇 Join the conversation in the comments. Subscribe for more conversations exploring cults, taboo subjects, consciousness, religious trauma recovery, and challenging the narratives we've inherited. The views expressed by guests are their own and are shared for the purpose of open discussion. This podcast encourages listeners to think critically, do their own research, and draw their own conclusions. #religion #religioustrauma #recovery #ufo Website homepage: http://polytope.www1.50megs.com Hidden History of Humanity: http://polytope.www1.50megs.com/histo... The Math Wizard: http://polytope.www1.50megs.com/scien... Natural Healing Self Empowerment: http://polytope.www1.50megs.com/healt... Nature of Energy booklet: http://polytope.www1.50megs.com/tech.... Support the show

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4.6
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Unholier Than Thou is a podcast for people who are done blindly believing. We challenge religion, question cultural norms, and dismantle the belief systems that shape, and often control, how people think.  This isn't surface-level conversation. This is deconstruction, disruption, and uncomfortable truth. From cult dynamics and religious conditioning to taboo societal issues, we go where most people won't.  If you're ready to think for yourself instead of being told what to think -  Welcome to the conversations you weren't supposed to have. #exvangelical #deconstruction #religioustrauma #SpiritualAbuse  #FaithDeconstruction  #MentalHealthMatters  #CrimeAndConsequences

Information

  • Creator
    Jenny Smith, Surviving Podcast Network
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    76
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Un-holier Than Thou Podcast
  • Show Website
    Un-holier Than Thou Podcast

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