Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism

Andrew Pledger
  • 4.8 (104)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Join Andrew Pledger in exposing Bob Jones University, a school known for its culture of indoctrination and control. BJU is a fundamentalist Christian college with roots in white supremacy and authoritarianism. The monthly podcast features survivors' stories from the university, and its affiliated churches, camps, and day schools. The show also explores BJU's influence beyond the university and its impact on American society. This show is a continuation of the limited series "Surviving BJU: A Christian Cult.” Join my Patreon for bonus episodes and other exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger My Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 11/08/2025

    Episodes Coming 2026

    Host Andrew Pledger thanks listeners for their support and announces changes for the next season. The podcast will shift its focus to exploring how controlling systems disconnect us from ourselves, their impact on our minds and bodies, and the path to recovery and reconnection. Andrew encourages listeners to stay subscribed for updates on the new episodes and details coming next year. 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    2 min

  2. 09/28/2025

    Klandamentalism w/ Dr. Camille Lewis

    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.

    54 min

  3. 09/27/2025

    The Old and The New Promise w/ Erin Burchwell

    In this episode, host Andrew Pledger interviews Erin Burchwell, who delves into the broken promises of Bob Jones University, particularly focusing on the 'Old Promise', an endowment fund meant to support long-time faculty in their retirement. The discussion highlights the ongoing struggles of retired faculty, the university's failure to uphold its commitments, and the troubling culture within the associated church communities. The episode also touches on the 'New Promise' initiative and its implications, while offering a retrospective on the 10-year anniversary of the Grace Report, emphasizing the need for continued awareness and justice. Erin shares her personal journey of resilience and success after leaving fundamentalism, and encourages listeners to pursue freedom. 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.

    54 min

  4. 09/26/2025

    Finding Freedom w/ Kate

    In today's episode, Kate shares her journey from being raised in the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) movement to becoming an accidental advocate and activist. She discusses her experiences with emotional and spiritual abuse, her formation of the Blue Shirt Coalition in support of sexual abuse survivors from her Christian High School, and the impact of her advocacy efforts. Kate also touches upon the influence of the church's teachings and its association with Bob Jones University. The conversation highlights her passion for protecting children and supporting victims within her community. Blue Shirt Coalition: https://www.blueshirtcoalition.org/ 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.

    42 min

  5. 09/24/2025

    Mental Health and BJU w/ Elizabeth

    In this episode, host Andrew Pledger talks with Elizabeth, a survivor of Bob Jones Academy and University. They discuss Elizabeth's struggles with mental health, the stigma surrounding it in fundamentalist Christian environments, and specific incidents that highlighted the emotional and psychological challenges she faced. Elizabeth shares personal stories about her family's mental health history, her experiences at Bob Jones Academy and BJU, including dealing with a traumatic family move and a toxic relationship, and the lack of support she encountered from staff and leaders at the school. Despite the hardships, Elizabeth finds healing through friendships, a supportive partner, and therapy. 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.

    45 min

  6. 09/16/2025

    Speaking Out: Protesting Jim Berg w/ Eleanor Skelton

    In this episode, host Andrew Pledger welcomes Eleanor Skelton, an advocate for awareness about abuse in homeschooling and restrictive religious circles. Eleanor shares their experiences growing up in the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) movement, their family's attempts to shelter them by steering them towards institutions like Bob Jones University (BJU), and their eventual escape. They discuss the control tactics used within these communities and their personal journey of deconstruction and activism. Eleanor also recounts leading a protest against Jim Berg, a controversial figure associated with BJU, and provides practical advice for individuals seeking to leave similar controlling environments. This episode sheds light on the challenges of escaping fundamentalism and the importance of finding supportive communities. Eleanor's website: https://eleanorskelton.com/ 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.

    1 hr

  7. 08/18/2025

    From Silence to Protest: Do Right BJU w/ Chris Peterman

    In this episode, host Andrew Pledger interviews Chris Peterman, a Bob Jones University alum and activist who led the Do Right BJU movement. Chris shares his experiences growing up in fundamentalist Christian environments, his realization of his sexual identity, and his awakening to the problems within these institutions, particularly around issues of abuse. The episode delves into Chris's journey from being a conforming student to founding a movement that demanded accountability from Bob Jones University. They discuss the steps leading to the first student-led protest at BJU, the significant impact of the Do Right BJU movement, and the subsequent Grace Report that investigated the university's handling of abuse claims. The conversation highlights the broader influence of fundamentalist institutions on American society and politics. Do Right BJU Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16oTVkxQ2A/?mibextid=wwXIfr ABC 20/20 episode on the IFB movement: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL54666D27A074EEC7&si=nlgV8eNVMGlN28K9 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.

    35 min

  8. 07/21/2025

    Perverted Justice w/ Shielagh Clark

    In this episode, host Andrew Pledger speaks with Shielagh Clark, a survivor of abuse tied to Bob Jones University and an affiliated church. Shielagh shares her harrowing journey of abuse beginning at age 15, and how she was failed by both the school and her church community. She details her involvement with the Grace Report, the challenges she faced in seeking justice through both criminal and civil courts, and the emotional toll it took on her. Despite numerous setbacks, she found healing and empowerment by speaking out, ultimately launching her own podcast, 'Perverted Justice,' to continue shedding light on abuse and the legal system. Listen to Perverted Justice Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perverted-justice/id1779806281 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/74QkJScAlSTxncLKCsyxN6?si=c8WSRQvIQcCl9rIn9eQsbA 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 01:11 Guest Introduction: Sheila Clark 01:37 Sheila's Story: Abuse and Bob Jones University 02:44 The Grace Report and Seeking Validation 08:49 Confronting the Past: Church and Legal Battles 20:25 Legal Proceedings and Challenges 38:52 Reflections and Healing Journey 46:45 Conclusion and Podcast Outro 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.

    46 min
See All (43)

4.8
out of 5
104 Ratings

About

Join Andrew Pledger in exposing Bob Jones University, a school known for its culture of indoctrination and control. BJU is a fundamentalist Christian college with roots in white supremacy and authoritarianism. The monthly podcast features survivors' stories from the university, and its affiliated churches, camps, and day schools. The show also explores BJU's influence beyond the university and its impact on American society. This show is a continuation of the limited series "Surviving BJU: A Christian Cult.” Join my Patreon for bonus episodes and other exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger My Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information