Growing Up In Polygamy

Growing Up In Polygamy
  • 4.8 (123)
  • RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Sam sharing what it was like growing up in the polygamous FLDS group, his experiences leaving the group when he was 18 and his journey to where he is now. His wife Melissa is his co-host, asking the questions that everyone from the outside is thinking.

  1. FBI Raid, Kidnapping & 50-Year Sentence for Samuel Bateman | Reaction to Ep. 4 (Finale)

    18H AGO

    FBI Raid, Kidnapping & 50-Year Sentence for Samuel Bateman | Reaction to Ep. 4 (Finale)

    How does a story like this finally come to an end… and does it ever really end? In the final episode of Trust Me: A False Prophet, we break down the FBI raid that led to the arrest of Samuel Bateman—and everything that happened after. Even from prison, Bateman continued to control his followers. We talk about how the minors were taken into custody, placed in group homes, and yet were still in contact with him. In a shocking turn, adult followers were instructed to retrieve the girls—leading to a kidnapping that shows just how deep the control ran. We also discuss the heartbreaking betrayal felt by the girls when they learned who had spoken out to authorities, and how difficult it is to break free from that kind of belief system. But this is also where things begin to change. Over time, as the girls were separated and given space away from the influence, they began to speak openly about what had happened—ultimately becoming the key witnesses that led to Bateman being sentenced to 50 years in prison. Many of his followers, including several adult wives and male members, were also held accountable. And yet… even now, some still believe he is a prophet. This final episode is about justice, healing, and the complicated reality of leaving a system like this behind. 👉 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: Why do you think some people still hold on to belief, even after everything? If you’ve been following this series, thank you for being here. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more in-depth reactions and discussions. #TrustMe #FalseProphet #SamuelBateman #CultAwareness #TrueCrime #ExMormon #Polygamy #CultSurvivor #YouTubeReaction If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy www.growingupinpolygamy.com Theme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us! growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com Create Shorts Easily like us with Opus Clips: https://www.opus.pro/?via=SamandMelissa

    56 min
  2. She Told the FBI Everything… | Trust Me: The False Prophet Ep. 3 Reaction

    4D AGO

    She Told the FBI Everything… | Trust Me: The False Prophet Ep. 3 Reaction

    What does it take to finally bring something like this to light? In Episode 3 of Trust Me: A False Prophet, we cover one of the most pivotal moments in the case of Samuel Bateman — when Julia found the courage to speak out and tell the FBI what was really happening behind closed doors. We talk about the punishment and abuse she endured for simply having questions or doubts, and how fear is used to keep people silent in these environments. We also react to the disturbing music video featuring Bateman’s wives—including underage girls—and discuss how music can be used as a powerful tool for conditioning and control. For Melissa, the song (originally from mainstream LDS culture) hits especially hard, showing just how deeply music can tie into belief, identity, and obedience. Then we break down the moment everything began to unravel: When someone noticed something wasn’t right—young girls being transported in a box trailer—and chose to say something. That one decision helped open the door for law enforcement to step in and ultimately led to Bateman’s arrest. Even though it wasn’t initially for his most serious crimes, it was the beginning of the end. This episode is about courage, awareness, and the power of speaking up—even when it’s hard. 👉 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: Do you think situations like this could be stopped sooner? What would it take? Topics we cover: Julia going to the FBI Abuse and punishment for questioning authority Music as a tool for conditioning in religious groups The disturbing “wives” music video The trailer incident that led to Samuel Bateman’s arrest Why speaking up matters If you appreciate real insight and honest reactions to stories like this, make sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more. #TrustMe #FalseProphet #SamuelBateman #CultAwareness #TrueCrime #ExMormon #Polygamy #CultSurvivor #YouTubeReaction If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy New website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.com Theme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us! growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

    43 min
  3. Groomed From Birth - The Samuel Bateman Case Explained | Trust Me: A False Prophet Ep. 2 Reaction

    APR 15

    Groomed From Birth - The Samuel Bateman Case Explained | Trust Me: A False Prophet Ep. 2 Reaction

    Why is it so hard to stop abuse in these communities… even when people know it’s happening? In Episode 2 of Trust Me: A False Prophet, we dive deeper into the case of Samuel Bateman and the devastating reality victims face when law enforcement can’t act without testimony. We talk about how young girls were groomed from birth to obey priesthood leaders and “the prophet,” and how they were taught to share “spiritual testimonies” that led them into these marriages. From the outside, it can be confusing—but from the inside, this level of control is all they’ve ever known. We also break down one of the most frustrating parts of this story: Even when authorities are aware of what’s happening, their hands are often tied unless victims are willing—and able—to speak out. And in the middle of all of this, we highlight the incredible courage of Christine and Tolga, who spent months fighting to help these girls, even when the system wasn’t working in their favor. This episode isn’t just about what happened… it’s about why it keeps happening. 👉 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: What needs to change for victims to actually be protected? Topics we cover: Why law enforcement struggles to intervene Grooming and obedience in fundamentalist groups “Spiritual testimony” vs coercion Why victims don’t (or can’t) speak out Christine & Tolga’s fight to help these girls If you appreciate honest conversations and real insight into these communities, make sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more. #TrustMe #FalseProphet #SamuelBateman #CultAwareness #ExMormon #Polygamy #TrueCrime #CultSurvivor #YouTubeReaction If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy New website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.com Theme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us! growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

    44 min
  4. Self-Proclaimed Prophet or Predator? | Trust Me: A False Prophet Ep. 1 Reaction"

    APR 11

    Self-Proclaimed Prophet or Predator? | Trust Me: A False Prophet Ep. 1 Reaction"

    In this episode, we react to Episode 1 of Trust Me: A False Prophet and break down the disturbing rise of Samuel Bateman — a self-proclaimed prophet who used religion to gain control, take followers’ wives and daughters, and justify abuse under the guise of “atonement.” As former members of fundamentalist and mainstream Mormon communities, we’ve seen firsthand how power, fear, and belief can be twisted. In this reaction, we share our personal insights into how leaders like this gain influence, why people follow, and how these systems enable abuse to happen in plain sight. This story isn’t just shocking—it’s a real look into how modern-day cult leaders operate. 👉 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: At what point does belief turn into control? Topics we cover: The rise of Samuel Bateman Religious manipulation and control “Atonement” used as a tool for abuse How followers become trapped Parallels to other fundamentalist groups If you enjoy real, honest reactions with insider perspective, make sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more. #TrustMe #FalseProphet #CultDocumentary #SamuelBateman #TrueCrime #EXFLDS #ExMormon #Polygamy #CultSurvivor If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy New website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.com Theme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us! growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

    44 min
  5. Farm Life, First Crushes & Hard Work | Charles F. Zitting Ep. 3

    APR 4

    Farm Life, First Crushes & Hard Work | Charles F. Zitting Ep. 3

    In Episode 3 of From the Journal of Charles F. Zitting, we continue reading from his self-written autobiography and dive deeper into his early life growing up in rural Utah. In this chapter, Charles shares what day-to-day life looked like working on farms—raising animals, learning responsibility at a young age, and developing a strong work ethic that would shape the rest of his life. He also opens up about more personal moments, including early crushes and what it was like navigating youth within a strict religious environment. As we read his words, we reflect on how these experiences compare to what we lived growing up in Mormon and fundamentalist Mormon communities—where hard work, family roles, and expectations were deeply ingrained from a young age. This episode highlights a more human side of his story—showing not just the faith, but the everyday life, emotions, and experiences that helped shape who he became. If you’re interested in: Mormon upbringing and rural Utah life Farm life, responsibility, and work ethic LDS culture and youth experiences Real-life stories from inside Mormon and FLDS communities Personal journals and firsthand accounts This series gives you a rare, inside look—told entirely in his own words. Follow along as we continue through the life of Charles F. Zitting, one chapter at a time. #Mormonism #LDS #FLDS #Polygamy #ExMormon #UtahHistory #FarmLife #FaithJourney #RealStories #FamilyLegacy If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy New website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.com Theme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us! growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

    39 min
  6. Mischief, Mistakes & Becoming a Deacon | Charles F. Zitting Ep. 2

    MAR 29

    Mischief, Mistakes & Becoming a Deacon | Charles F. Zitting Ep. 2

    In Episode 2 of From the Journal of Charles F. Zitting, we continue reading from his self-written autobiography and get a deeper look into his early years growing up in the LDS Church. In this chapter, Charles shares stories from his childhood—including the pranks he played, the mistakes he made, and the lessons that shaped him. He also talks about becoming a deacon in the Mormon church and the importance of his faith. As we read his words, we pause to share our own experiences and perspective—what it’s like growing up in Mormon and fundamentalist Mormon environments, how similar patterns show up, and how these early teachings can impact a person’s life. This episode offers a more personal and relatable side of his story, showing that even within a strict religious structure, there were moments of humor, growth, and reflection. If you’re interested in: Mormon upbringing and early priesthood roles LDS teachings and youth expectations Real-life stories from inside Mormon and FLDS communities Personal journals and firsthand accounts This series gives you a rare, inside perspective—told entirely in his own words. Follow along as we continue through the life of Charles F. Zitting, one chapter at a time. #Mormonism #LDS #FLDS #Polygamy #ExMormon #MormonStories #FaithJourney #UtahHistory #ReligiousUpbringing If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy New website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.com Theme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us! growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

    45 min
  7. Growing Up Mormon in 1890s Utah: The Life of Charles F. Zitting | Ep. 1

    MAR 20

    Growing Up Mormon in 1890s Utah: The Life of Charles F. Zitting | Ep. 1

    In this series, we read and react to the self-written autobiography of Charles F. Zitting—Sam’s grandfather—sharing a rare, firsthand account of life inside Mormonism, including both mainstream LDS beliefs and fundamentalist Mormonism. Through his own words, Charles F. Zitting documents his life, faith, family, and experiences with polygamy, priesthood authority, and religious devotion. As we read his journal, we provide real-life context from our own experiences growing up in Mormon and FLDS communities, offering insight into how these beliefs are taught, lived, and sometimes challenged. In Episode 1, we begin at the start of his story, exploring his early life, spiritual foundation, and the beliefs that shaped his path. This series is for anyone interested in: -Mormon history -LDS vs FLDS beliefs -Polygamy and fundamentalist Mormonism -Real-life stories from inside religious communities -Personal journals and firsthand accounts If you’re curious about what life is really like inside these worlds, this is a perspective you won’t hear anywhere else. Subscribe and follow along as we continue reading through the life of Charles F. Zitting—one chapter at a time. #Mormonism #FLDS #Polygamy #LDS #MormonStories #FundamentalistMormon #LifeStory #ExMormon If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy New website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.com Theme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us! growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

    30 min
  8. The Apostolic United Brethren (AUB) Today: New Rules, Division & Warnings to Members

    MAR 7

    The Apostolic United Brethren (AUB) Today: New Rules, Division & Warnings to Members

    Subscribe to Melanie and Corey https://www.youtube.com/@NotestoSelf444 In this episode, we sit down with Melanie and Corey from Notes to Self 444 for an update on what is currently happening inside the Apostolic United Brethren (AUB)—the fundamentalist Mormon group known for practicing polygamy and featured on shows like Sister Wives. Melanie has a unique perspective as the daughter of the current AUB prophet, giving insight into how the church is functioning today. We discuss changes to church rules, growing division within the community, and how members are responding to questions about leadership and authority. We also talk about the fracturing happening within the AUB, including disagreements over allegiance to the current prophet and what that means for families still inside the religion. Finally, Melanie and Corey share important warnings and advice for those who are still involved in the group and what they hope people understand about life inside and leaving a fundamentalist religious community. As former members of Mormon and fundamentalist Mormon cultures ourselves, we offer context and perspective on how these changes affect individuals, families, and faith. If you’re interested in understanding modern polygamist groups, fundamentalist Mormonism, and the realities of leaving high-control religions, this conversation offers a rare inside look. If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy New website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.com Theme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us! growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

    48 min
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4.8
out of 5
123 Ratings

About

Sam sharing what it was like growing up in the polygamous FLDS group, his experiences leaving the group when he was 18 and his journey to where he is now. His wife Melissa is his co-host, asking the questions that everyone from the outside is thinking.

Information

  • Creator
    Growing Up In Polygamy
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    305
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Growing Up In Polygamy
  • Show Website
    Growing Up In Polygamy

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