The Liberated Porch Podcast

Kit Morgan
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Mental Health

Welcome to The Liberated Porch Podcast with your host, Kit Morgan, a queer and trans religious trauma educator, licensed clinical social worker, and therapist. Sexuality and gender can be complicated when you came from a religious background that restricted the relationship you had to your body and desire. Kit explores in solo and guest episodes about how to become unrestricted and find sexual and gender liberation after experiencing religious trauma. Each episode will explore liberation-oriented methods of religious trauma recovery. Through storytelling, research, and skills-building, Kit and their guests are here to help you discover the person who was stifled by religious teachings to give up your identity.

  1. 3d ago

    Connecting to the World Outside of Religious Fundamentalism's Isolation with Dr. Sara Glass

    This episode explores the nuanced experiences of leaving high-control religious environments, healing from religious trauma, and reclaiming personal identity and faith. Hosted by Kit Morgan, a queer and trans religious trauma educator and therapist, the discussion features Dr. Sarah Glass, author of Kissing Girls on Shabbat, sharing insights on faith deconstruction, cultural trauma, and fostering connection beyond religious confines found in Orthodox Judaism and Christian Fundamentalism.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to religious trauma and its effects on gender and sexuality01:19 - Dr. Sarah Glass’ background and work with Jewish queer youth02:50 - Commonalities in trauma across high-control religious groups04:09 - Experiences leaving Orthodox Judaism05:03 - Breaking silence about sanctified oppression06:26 - The role of information control and storytelling in religious systems07:41 - Cultural shifts: from religious insularity to pop culture exploration09:06 - Overcoming shame around unfamiliarity with cultural and social activities10:09 - The relationship to rest in high control religious groups11:56 - Recognizing the residual effects of religious trauma in daily fatigue13:05 - The extremity of authoritarian religious upbringings and their societal influence15:37 - The evolving definition of cults and high-control groups16:44 - Recognizing how mainstream these religious systems have become18:12 - The influence of religious leaders and community structures19:22 - The importance of trauma-informed care and avoiding cultural biases21:21 - Expanding the language around religious trauma and cults in therapy22:48 - Addressing violence and safety within religious and cultural communities24:33 - Supporting clients in dreaming beyond religious limitations26:18 - Providing education on reproductive health and medical choices29:19 - Navigating social media boundaries and online harassment33:23 - Encounters with public perceptions and antisemitism in everyday life36:56 - Self-awareness around societal stereotypes and anti-Semitic tropes40:01 - Lifelong healing, patience, and self-compassion in recovery42:43 - Final thoughts on healing at your own pace and embracing community supportResources: Kissing Girls on ShabbatDr. Sarah Glass on InstagramEx-Mormon Stories by Martha Beck

    44 min

  2. Jun 5

    Understanding the Connection Between OCD and Religious Trauma with Juliet Gustafson

    In this episode, Kit Morgan sits down with Juliet Gustafson, a queer social worker, licensed therapist, and OCD expert, to explore the nuanced intersections of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), religious trauma, and queer identity. They delve into how OCD manifests, common misconceptions, and effective treatment strategies, especially when combined with religious trauma and moral scrupulosity. Key topics: Clear definitions and misconceptions of OCD, including its core components of obsessions and compulsionsThe relationship between OCD and religious trauma, including moral scrupulosityHow OCD can be mistaken for generalized anxiety disorder and the importance of proper diagnosisTreatment approaches like exposure and response prevention (ERP) and the importance of tolerating uncertaintyThe impact of religious and cultural messaging on OCD symptoms, especially around morality and certaintyNavigating OCD-related obsessive thoughts about sexuality, gender identity, and deathPractical exposure techniques for addressing fears about death, sexuality, and bodily fluidsThe significance of aftercare, validation, and the role of community in recovery Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and Juliet Gustafson’s background 01:52 - Defining OCD: obsessions, compulsions, and common misconceptions 03:44 - The serious nature of OCD and how it's misunderstood even in mental health spaces 05:17 - The overlap of OCD with generalized anxiety disorder and diagnostic challenges 07:23 - The ineffectiveness of traditional talk therapy for OCD symptoms 08:49 - Personal stories that deepened Juliet’s understanding of OCD and religious trauma 10:18 - Crossovers between OCD and religious trauma, including moral scrupulosity 11:19 - How trauma and OCD intersect, especially around identity and trust 12:39 - The genetic and environmental factors contributing to OCD 13:41 - Religious influences on OCD symptoms, especially around morality and certainty 15:11 - Addressing moral scrupulosity and the costs of perfectionism 16:17 - Navigating high standards and the impact on daily life and relationships 17:08 - The importance of acceptance and gray areas in OCD treatment 18:06 - Validation versus empathy in therapeutic You can find Juliet's work on Instagram @ocd_therapist_juliet, the Intrusive Plots Podcast, or julietgustafson.com

    43 min

  3. May 30

    Finding Freedom from Shame in Being a Man Who's Attracted to Other Men with Tom Bruett, LMFT, CST

    Podcast Episode Summary Introduction Speakers: Kit Morgan: Trans and queer licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and educator specializing in religious trauma work with the queer population.Tom Bruett: Licensed marriage and family therapist, certified sex therapist, and founder of the Queer Relationship Institute. You can find his work @queerrelationshipinstitute on Instagram or Youtube, The Gay Relationship Podcast, or queerelationshipinstitute.com Episode Theme: Exploring the intersection of religion, spirituality, and sexuality, focusing on how these elements can oppress individuals based on gender and sexuality. Timestamps and Subtopics: 0:00 - Introduction to the Episode Overview of the podcast's focus on the impact of religion and spirituality on gender and sexuality.0:25 - Guest Introduction Introduction of Tom Bruett and his work with the queer community.1:56 - Main Discussion: Sexuality and Trauma 2:18 - Gay Cisgender Men's Sexuality: Exploration of sexuality among gay cisgender men.2:31 - Therapy for Non-Heterosexual Men: Challenges faced by non-heterosexual men in therapy.3:33 - Microaggressions in Therapy: Common issues and microaggressions experienced by non-heterosexual men.6:00 - Understanding Sexuality Spectrum Discussion on demisexuality, fray sexuality, and misconceptions about sex addiction.9:39 - Principles of Sexual Health Explanation of the six principles of sexual health and their importance in therapy.14:01 - Patriarchal Narratives and Therapy Impact of patriarchal narratives on non-heterosexual men and the role of therapy in addressing these issues.27:04 - DL Behavior and Religious Trauma Exploration of DL behavior, its complexities, and its relation to religious trauma.34:02 - Trauma and Sexuality How trauma influences sexual behavior and identity, and understanding trauma arousal responses.39:38 - Addressing Sexuality in Therapy Guidance for clients on discussing sexuality with therapists and the importance of this dialogue.41:57 - Conclusion Closing remarks and appreciation for the conversation.

    42 min

  4. May 19

    Making Your Own Kind of Music After the Indoctrination of Biblical Womanhood with Christine Parker

    In this episode, queer religious trauma therapists, Kit and Christine Parker, delve into their personal journeys with musical training, religious upbringing, and recognizing their authentic identities. They discuss how religious and cultural norms influence perceptions of gender, sexuality, and self-expression, especially within Christian and evangelical contexts. Their heartfelt dialogue offers insights into healing, self-trust, and embracing one’s true self in the face of societal pressures. Main Topics: The influence of classical music training and the Suzuki Method on discipline and perfectionismContrasts between biblical womanhood and embodied womanhood within patriarchal structuresHow purity culture shapes perceptions of sexuality and gender, particularly for queer womenThe mental and emotional toll of religious trauma and the importance of slow, marathon-like healingPractical ways for LGBTQ+ individuals to find affirming therapeutic supportThe process of discovering and accepting one’s sexuality later in life Timestamps: 00:00 - Personal stories of musical beginnings and family influences 02:44 - Childhood experiences with classical music and discipline 05:49 - Religious upbringing and its impact on views of womanhood 11:10 - Differentiating biblical womanhood from embodied womanhood 15:16 - Navigating emotional closeness and purity culture among women 20:22 - Sexual education in religious contexts versus scientific understanding 27:31 - Recognizing attraction and coming out stories later in life 33:37 - The myth of instant trauma recovery and compassionate healing journey 39:00 - The power of slow, mindful trauma recovery and therapy insights 43:40 - How religious training influences behavior versus identity in women 47:28 - Questions to ask therapists to ensure LGBTQ+ affirming care 51:14 - Closing thoughts and gratitude for authentic conversations

    33 min

  5. May 8

    On Becoming a Pro-Choice, Affirming Mom After 21 Siblings with Heather McG

    Host Introduction: 0:00 - Kit Morgan welcomes listeners to the Liberated Porch podcast, introducing themselves as a trans and queer licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and educator. Kit specializes in working with the queer population from families and faith backgrounds where love was conditional. Guest Introduction: 0:26 - Kit introduces Heather McG, discussing her work on unlearning Christian fundamentalism about parenthood and breaking generational religious trauma through affirming parenting. Heather is recognized as a strong ally for the queer community, advocating from a place of passion for human rights. Guest Background: 1:49 - Heather is described as a highly accomplished writer, producer, and storyteller, with accolades including Emmy and Cannes Lion Awards. Raised in a quiverful family in rural Texas, Heather is working on a memoir about her experiences in fundamentalist Christianity. Main Discussion: 2:18 - The conversation begins with Heather sharing her excitement to be on the podcast.3:19 - Heather and Kit discuss the cultural and religious environment of the Bible Belt, including the impact of non-affirming religious teachings.4:21 - Heather shares her upbringing in a fundamentalist Christian church and the quiverful movement, highlighting the challenges and beliefs associated with it.6:40 - The discussion touches on the lack of support for families within these religious systems and the misconceptions about birth control and abortion.9:38 - Heather talks about the appropriation of Judaic practices within fundamentalist Christianity and her family's unique experiences.11:12 - The conversation explores the dynamics of large families and the challenges of parenting within such environments.14:21 - Heather reflects on the impact of religious teachings on identity and the journey of self-discovery outside of those frameworks.18:28 - Kit and Heather discuss the complexities of unlearning maladaptive parenting skills and the importance of emotional support.21:28 - Heather shares her healing journey post-divorce and the importance of shedding shame from fundamentalist teachings.25:52 - The conversation emphasizes the significance of emotional presence and self-exploration in parenting.29:18 - Kit and Heather discuss the importance of re-education and community in healing from religious trauma.34:11 - Heather offers advice to religious trauma survivors on building confidence and breaking generational cycles. Closing Remarks: 39:27 - Kit concludes the podcast, expressing gratitude for Heather's insights and experiences shared during the conversation.

    40 min

  6. May 2

    From Church Basement Trauma to Collective Recovery with Timothy Schraeder Rodriguez

    Episode Summary:  0:00 - Introduction Host Kit Morgan introduces the podcast which focuses on the intersections of religion, spirituality, and LGBTQ+ issues.0:26 - Guest Introduction Introduction of Timothy Schraeder Rodriguez, a conversion therapy survivor and former architect of evangelical Christianity's digital empire.0:44 - Conversion Therapy Experience Tim shares his personal journey through conversion therapy and its impact on his faith and identity.1:22 - New Path and Book Discussion Discussion on Tim's new book, "Conversion Therapy Dropout," and his journey to finding a community that embraces his true self.2:08 - Sobriety and Empowerment Kit and Tim discuss sobriety as conversion therapy survivors and reclaiming spaces once avoided.3:04 - Shared Experiences Tim talks about the shared experiences among conversion therapy survivors and the importance of storytelling.5:36 - Sobriety Journey Tim shares his journey to sobriety and how it helped him redefine his faith and identity.14:43 - Celebrate Recovery Discussion A conversation about Celebrate Recovery and its covert conversion therapy aspects.20:41 - Connection and Recovery The importance of connection in recovery and how it contrasts with addiction.26:46 - Community and Recovery Meetings Tim reflects on the community found in recovery meetings and the reclamation of church spaces.35:07 - Book Release and Hopes Tim shares his hopes for his book's impact on conversion therapy awareness and church leaders.36:40 - Closing Remarks Kit and Tim conclude the episode with reflections on the power of storytelling and knowledge sharing. Meet Your Host (Kit Morgan) and Guest (Timothy Schaeder Rodriguez): Kit Morgan is a trans and queer licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and educator. Specializing in working with the queer population, Kit focuses on individuals from families and faith backgrounds where love was conditional on being cisgender and heterosexual. Timothy Schraeder Rodriguez is a former architect of evangelical Christianity's digital empire, having worked with influential mega churches like Hillsong, Willow Creek, and Elevation Church. After spending years in conversion therapy, Tim now shares his journey of finding a vibrant faith through liberation-oriented theology. He is the author of "Conversion Therapy Dropout," which explores the hidden harm of non-affirming Christian spaces and religious trauma recovery. Get the book, Conversion Therapy Dropout here: https://www.conversiontherapydropoutbook.com/

    37 min

  7. Apr 25

    10 Reasons Why Evangelical Lesbians Are Invisible Within Purity Culture

    Join Kit Morgan, a queer and trans licensed therapist, as they explore the often invisible and overlooked experiences of lesbians shaped by purity culture. This episode highlights ten critical reasons why lesbian voices have been marginalized within religious trauma educational contexts, emphasizing the importance of understanding gender and sexuality through a religious trauma-informed lens. Main topics: The impact of purity culture on female submissiveness and passivityQueer erasures within biblical stories like Ruth and NaomiEmotional intimacy and physical exploration in women’s Bible studiesThe suppression of female sexuality and gender expressionThe dangers of early marriage and issues around marital rapeThe complex realities of lesbian women in abusive marriages with cisgender men and fears around child custodyThe spiritualization of desire and feelings of being ‘different’ after leaving purity cultureThe importance of supporting lesbian resilience and visibility Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to how religion and purity culture oppress queer identities 00:28 - Personal reflection on Lesbian Visibility Day and LGBTQ+ spaces in religious contexts 0:54 - How purity culture instills submissiveness and passivity in women 2:07 - The role of biblical stories and their possible queer interpretations 3:41 - Female companionship in biblical and church settings as potentially lesbian in nature 5:02 - How women are taught to deny their sexuality and desire 6:00 - Gender expression exploration and fears within religious communities 7:14 - Early marriage pressures and misinformation about sex 8:29 - The dangerous normalization of marital rape under religious teachings 10:11 - Fear of losing custody and the impact of religiously connected social services 14:47 - The sacredness of sexuality outside purity culture norms 15:20 - Feelings of being ‘different’ and spiritual bypassing 16:22 - How supporters can better uplift lesbians in their communities

    17 min

  8. Apr 19

    Inside the Rise of the Modern Black, LGBTQ Christian Justice Movement with Zachary Gillis

    Your host, Kit Morgan, is a trans and queer licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and educator, specializing in the work with the queer population who had families and faith backgrounds where love was allowed only as long as you were cisgender heterosexual. Today's guest, Zach Gillis, is a Black, openly gay Christian clergyman who grew up in the Northwestern Indiana cities of Gary, Hammond, and Merrillville. Zach was a pastor’s kid in the Black Missionary Baptist Church, which sparked his love for church ministry. After coming out in his 20s, Zach came out of the closet and the Black Missionary Baptist Church to find his church home. Outside of re-imagining and reconstructing what the American church can be like in both affirming of Black American cultural identities and LGBTQ identities, Zach Gillis is widely involved in his local community of South Bend, Indiana with serving on the city’s LGBTQ Center’s Board of Directors from 2018 - 2022, delivering vocal performances, and caring for youth as the dean of students at a high school in South Bend, Indiana. When Zach isn’t serving his local community, you might find him singing, listening to R&B of the 90s and 00s, eating Chicago Mix Popcorn, and chilling with his Chihuahaus named Nemo and Topher. The conversation between Kit and Zach explores the experiences of growing up in the Black church, the significance of the Black church in the US in the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, and the journey of finding a church home after coming out of the closet as a Black gay Christian. Kit and Zach delve into the impact of regional culture upon Christian practices and expressions of LGBTQ affirmation. The conversation covers the topics of contemporary Christian music (CCM), Black Gospel music, growing up as a pastor's kid in the Black Missionary Baptist Church, LGBTQ inclusion and exclusion in Evangelical churches, and the emergence of Black LGBTQ Christian communities who are liberation-oriented.

    46 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Liberated Porch Podcast with your host, Kit Morgan, a queer and trans religious trauma educator, licensed clinical social worker, and therapist. Sexuality and gender can be complicated when you came from a religious background that restricted the relationship you had to your body and desire. Kit explores in solo and guest episodes about how to become unrestricted and find sexual and gender liberation after experiencing religious trauma. Each episode will explore liberation-oriented methods of religious trauma recovery. Through storytelling, research, and skills-building, Kit and their guests are here to help you discover the person who was stifled by religious teachings to give up your identity.

Information

  • Creator
    Kit Morgan
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kit Morgan

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