Architecture of Abuse

Architecture of Abuse
  • 5.0 (105)
  • DOCUMENTARY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Thank you for listening to Season 1. Subscribe & stay tuned for future episodes. Architecture of Abuse explores the widespread issue of child sexual abuse in Utah, with a particular focus on how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has historically responded to reports of abuse within its community. Hosted by Alyssa Grenfell, through the lens of veteran attorney and co-host Tim Kosnoff’s decades-long career representing survivors, and in conversation with clinical therapists, sociologists, historians, journalists, and researchers, some of whom are active LDS members, we examine the cultural, institutional, and historical forces that enable silence and protect abusers. We aim to equip listeners with a deeper understanding of the scope of this issue, and how abuse can be properly prevented and addressed, while offering support and resources for survivors—including information about legal representation. Rooted in compassion and a call for accountability, this podcast invites listeners—especially members of the LDS Church—to be part of the movement for meaningful change. ⚠️ This podcast contains discussions about child sexual abuse. Please listen with care. 💡 All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

  1. 09/25/2025 · BONUS

    Season One Update

    In this update, co-host and attorney Tim Kosnoff reflects on the impact of Architecture of Abuse’s first season. With tens of thousands of downloads and an outpouring of listener responses, the series has become a powerful resource for survivors of child sexual abuse—helping many find the language, courage, and support to take their first steps in speaking out. Tim shares insights from the feedback he and the team have received, including how the series is resonating both inside and outside the LDS community. He recounts his experience presenting at the Sunstone Conference, where conversations highlighted the urgent need for broader awareness and education. This update also addresses one of the most pressing listener questions: the existence of a proprietary database of abusers within the LDS Church. Tim explains why it has been kept private, how survivors can inquire about their abuser, and what’s next for the podcast. ——— Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aq8dt93dxnHEfiXX9OGE3wN1auSqxe50/view Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com Contribute to the conversation: ➡️ Follow & subscribe to the podcast ➡️ Leave a review & rating ➡️ Follow https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse ➡️ Share the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com

    17 min

  2. 07/22/2025

    Episode 7: Justice

    When abuse was enabled or hidden by religious institutions, the idea of justice can take on many forms. In this powerful final episode of Season 1, attorney and co-host Tim Kosnoff and legal scholar Marci Hamilton join host Alyssa Grenfell to unpack the legal, cultural, and institutional obstacles survivors face when seeking accountability from the organizations society deems to be the most moral. Together, they explore the heartbreaking realities of delayed disclosure, the role of statute of limitations laws, and the entrenched systems that protect abusers, and Marci shares her experience challenging unconstitutional religious exemptions and leading the national fight to reform child sex abuse laws. ⚠️ This podcast contains discussions about child sexual abuse. Please listen with care. Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bv-uomyIdCeC9l-IHqLKXWwTGq0epZiD/view Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com Visit CHILD USA’s website: https://childusa.org God vs. the Gavel: Religion and the Rule of Law by Marci A. Hamilton. Cambridge University Press, June 2005.  Justice Denied: What America Must Do to Protect Its Children by Marci A. Hamilton. Cambridge University Press, April 2012. Contribute to the conversation by: ➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast ➡️ Leaving a review/rating ➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse ➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff| Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

    53 min

  3. 07/18/2025 · BONUS

    Deep Dive 6: A Survivor's Legal Guide

    Attorney Tim Kosnoff breaks down what it means to file a legal claim as a survivor of abuse. With over four decades of experience representing victims within institutions like the LDS Church, Tim offers a concrete and reassuring look at what to expect, from overcoming the fear of making the first phone call to the possibility of a settlement. He addresses common myths and fears, explains key legal terms, and clarifies questions around confidentiality, privacy, and control. Most importantly, he emphasizes that you remain in charge—of the pace, the details you share, and the path forward. If you’ve ever considered taking legal action but felt overwhelmed, this episode is a powerful starting point to reclaim your voice, understand your options, and know you’re not alone. Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1h9c5zyqxSeb8DbJ9Rn-D8tMF5Z-DU9vo/view Additional resources, and a contact form are available at https://architectureofabuse.com To discuss a potential claim with Tim, visit https://kosnoff.com Contribute to the conversation by: ➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast ➡️ Leaving a review/rating ➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse ➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit https://kosnoff.com Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

    14 min

  4. 07/15/2025

    Episode 6: Healing

    What does healing look like after childhood sexual abuse, especially within systems that have long minimized, moralized, or silenced it? In this episode, we hear from LCSW Malia Burgess, alongside Dr. Julie Hanks and LMFT Natasha Helfer, as well as constitutional law professor, Marci Hamilton, as they unpack the messy, nonlinear, and deeply personal process of healing. From therapy access and cultural shame to Church-imposed repentance and systemic betrayal, this episode names the barriers survivors face, and the hope and power found in reclaiming your story. Hosted by Alyssa Grenfell and Tim Kosnoff. ⚠️ This podcast contains discussions about child sexual abuse. Please listen with care. Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D8KnbLOe2GaofaaFQJrR6bRg76_6U1TM/view Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com Learn more about Encircle at https://encircletogether.org Learn more about Malia Burgess at https://encircletogether.org/therapy/therapists Learn more about Natasha Helfer at https://www.natashahelfer.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://instagram.com/natashahelfermft Contribute to the conversation by: ➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast ➡️ Leaving a review/rating ➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse ➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

    58 min

  5. 07/11/2025 · BONUS

    Deep Dive 5: A Guide for Parents

    This candid Deep Dive with therapist and Encircle’s Director of Clinical Operations, Malia Burgess, takes us on a three-part journey: into the past that shaped us, the present we must reckon with, and the future we’re responsible for building. She begins by unpacking the generational trauma rooted in LDS pioneer mythology and how it impacts the behavior of children and youth in a culture that rewards long-suffering silence. For the present, she offers trauma-informed guidance for parents navigating conversations about bodies, boundaries, and what to do if a child discloses abuse or discomfort. Looking to the future, Malia shares advice on raising resilient children who trust their instincts and know how to say no when it matters. And for both survivors and their caregivers, she discusses what healing can look like across different therapeutic modalities.   Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T7KO9o_N3masu9PQF9cMfIPmGUrWTuUj/view   Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com   Learn more about Encircle at https://encircletogether.org Learn more about Malia at https://encircletogether.org/therapy/therapists   Contribute to the conversation by: ➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast ➡️ Leaving a review/rating ➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse ➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions   All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com   Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

    25 min

  6. 07/09/2025

    Episode 5: Repression

    Episode 5 of Architecture of Abuse discusses how the LDS Church’s teachings around sexuality create a perfect storm for silence and abuse. Hosts Alyssa Grenfell and Tim Kosnoff are joined by sex therapist Natasha Helfer, and expert on undue influence, Dr. Steven Hassan, to examine how members are conditioned from childhood to ignore internal discomfort, how spiritual  hierarchy undermines personal revelation, and how the church often reframes criminal acts as “sins,” blurring the lines between repentance and justice.   Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lkh9pKHao7S0N_zjj7ryfxGDMKYYi49j/view   Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com   Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan at https://freedomofmind.com/ and follow him on Instagram https://.instagram.com/cultexpert Learn more about Natasha Helfer at https://www.natashahelfer.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://instagram.com/natashahelfermft   Contribute to the conversation by: ➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast ➡️ Leaving a review/rating ➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse ➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions   All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com   Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

    1h 7m

  7. 07/04/2025 · BONUS

    Deep Dive 4: Utah's Accident & Design

    The influence of the LDS Church in Utah can be traced through its methodical rise throughout history: from desert-settling pioneers to modern-day corporate powzerhouse. Attorney Tim Kosnoff, and author and content creator Alyssa Grenfell unpack why the Church’s financial, political, and legal power makes accountability for abuse so elusive in the state of Utah. From the “accident” of their establishment in the wilderness of the West, to the “design” of the Church’s parallel systems of establishment, Tim and Alyssa detail the undeniable influence of the “Mormon Corridor” within the USA. Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12NnVxXT_DePCZiWvGseCEa-1cyBBh6tI/view Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com Contribute to the conversation by: ➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast ➡️ Leaving a review/rating ➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse ➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

    19 min

  8. 07/01/2025

    Episode 4: The History

    In this exploration of Utah and Church history, co-hosts Alyssa Grenfell and veteran attorney Tim Kosnoff are joined by historian and executive producer Lindsay Hansen Park to trace the LDS Church’s origins through a stark and unflinching lens that reveals how romanticized origins can obscure systemic harm. Together, they examine how secrecy, outlaw theology, and institutional power became woven into the very foundation of the LDS Church and the state of Utah, establishing a blueprint that still shapes the Church’s response to abuse today. From Joseph Smith’s secret plural marriages to the systemic use of “sacredness” as a shield for silence, Park offers a powerful historical critique, connecting early practices to modern consequences. The episode dissects polygamy, theocratic control, and cultural myths of martyrdom, while exploring how patriarchal reverence and the suppression of discomfort have enabled a long-standing architecture of abuse.   Episode Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NjOXgop_4F3Nl0CLx2EOIhY9NWzx7HMt/view   Additional resources, and a contact form are available at ArchitectureOfAbuse.com   Listen to Lindsay Hansen Park’s podcast, Year of Polygamy: https://www.yearofpolygamy.com/ Listen to Lindsay Hansen Park’s podcast, Sunstone History Podcast: https://sunstone.org/sunstone-history-podcast/   Contribute to the conversation by: ➡️ Following/subscribing to the podcast ➡️ Leaving a review/rating ➡️ Following https://instagram.com/architectureofabuse and https://tiktok.com/@architectureofabuse ➡️ Sharing the podcast with someone who might benefit from these discussions All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be considered and handled on a case-by-case basis. Under current law, and after decades of experience bringing cases against institutions like the LDS Church, it is our professional opinion that there is no mechanism to handle CSA-related claims other than individually. Under current law we do not anticipate that, without substantial changes to the law, there will be a mechanism—class action, consolidated cases, federal multi-district actions, or anything else—that will allow these claims to proceed on anything other than an individual basis. They are all simply too fact dependent. For inquiries about legal representation, visit kosnoff.com   Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

    1h 3m
See All (16)

Trailer

5
out of 5
105 Ratings

About

Thank you for listening to Season 1. Subscribe & stay tuned for future episodes. Architecture of Abuse explores the widespread issue of child sexual abuse in Utah, with a particular focus on how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has historically responded to reports of abuse within its community. Hosted by Alyssa Grenfell, through the lens of veteran attorney and co-host Tim Kosnoff’s decades-long career representing survivors, and in conversation with clinical therapists, sociologists, historians, journalists, and researchers, some of whom are active LDS members, we examine the cultural, institutional, and historical forces that enable silence and protect abusers. We aim to equip listeners with a deeper understanding of the scope of this issue, and how abuse can be properly prevented and addressed, while offering support and resources for survivors—including information about legal representation. Rooted in compassion and a call for accountability, this podcast invites listeners—especially members of the LDS Church—to be part of the movement for meaningful change. ⚠️ This podcast contains discussions about child sexual abuse. Please listen with care. 💡 All views expressed are opinions only and do not constitute legal advice. Hosts | Alyssa Grenfell & Tim Kosnoff Executive Producers | Lindsay Hansen Park & Eric W. Phillips Producer | Lizzy Bean Researcher | Emily Sellers

Information

  • Creator
    Architecture of Abuse
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Architecture of Abuse