Unholier Than Thou

Jenny Smith, Surviving Podcast Network
  • 4.6 (9)
  • Religion & Spirituality

Unholier Than Thou is for anyone who has ever questioned the beliefs they were told they weren't allowed to question. We unpack religion, religious trauma, deconstruction, cult dynamics, purity culture, spiritual abuse, and the cultural beliefs that shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. Through raw conversations, personal stories, and thought provoking interviews, we explore what happens when you stop accepting inherited beliefs as unquestionable truth. We talk to survivors, former believers, therapists, authors, pastors, spiritual seekers, and people who have walked away from the systems that once defined them. This isn't about telling you what to believe. It's about giving you permission to ask better questions. Question the narrative. Challenge the paradigm. Expand your perspective. If you're ready to think for yourself, you're in the right place. Welcome to the conversations you weren't supposed to have. #exvangelical #deconstruction #religioustrauma #SpiritualAbuse  #FaithDeconstruction  #MentalHealthMatters  #CrimeAndConsequences

  1. 5d ago

    Their Pastor Controlled Who They Could Talk To | Paul & Toby's Story

    How much authority should a pastor have over your life? Paul and Toby spent years inside an Independent Fundamental Baptist church where loyalty, obedience, and spiritual authority were deeply intertwined. What they experienced was not one dramatic event. It was a gradual realization that something they had trusted for years was no longer sitting right with them. In their first ever public telling of their story, Paul and Toby open up about growing up IFB, the subtle ways control can enter a church community, the cost of questioning leadership, and the painful impact it can have on family relationships. We also talk about what happened when they began developing relationships outside their church, seeing their former beliefs through a different lens, and realizing that faith and fear do not have to be the same thing. This conversation raises some uncomfortable questions. When does spiritual leadership become control? What happens when questioning your pastor feels like questioning God? And what do you do when following your conscience means disappointing the people you've trusted for years? Paul and Toby's story is ultimately about learning to think for themselves, reclaiming their voices, and discovering what faith can look like when fear is no longer driving the conversation. If you've ever experienced religious control, fundamentalism, spiritual abuse, family estrangement, or the complicated process of deconstructing your faith, this is a conversation you will not want to miss. Follow Unholier Than Thou Podcast and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. https://wegotout.org/ #Deconstruction #Exvangelical #ReligiousTrauma #SpiritualAbuse #Estrangement #IFB #Religion  Support the show

  2. Sep 15

    MENTAL HELL: Are You Living in Plato’s Cave? What Deconstruction Reveals | Caitlin

    What if the reality you’ve been taught isn’t the whole story? In this episode of Unholier Than Thou, I sit down with Caitlin, an influential voice in the deconstruction community, for a fascinating conversation about what happens when you begin questioning the beliefs you inherited...and start searching for truth for yourself. Throughout our conversation, we keep coming back to Plato’s Cave, the ancient metaphor of people who have spent their entire lives watching shadows on a wall and believing those shadows are reality. It raises a powerful question: How much of what we believe is actually true, and how much of it is simply what we were taught to see? We talk about deconstruction, religious conditioning, fear, identity, spirituality, and the uncomfortable process of figuring out what you actually believe once you give yourself permission to ask the questions you were once afraid...or even forbidden...to ask. Does questioning your beliefs mean you’ve rejected God? Does deconstruction destroy faith, or can it actually lead you toward a deeper understanding of truth? And once you’ve stepped outside the “cave” and seen your beliefs from a different perspective...can you ever really go back? Toward the end of our conversation, Caitlin also shares about Mental Hell, the documentary she’s currently working on that explores religious trauma and its psychological impact. If you’ve ever questioned your faith, your upbringing, Christianity, or simply wondered whether the beliefs you inherited are actually your own, this episode is for you. Sometimes finding truth requires having the courage to question everything you thought you knew. Question the narrative. Challenge your paradigm. Expand your perspectives. #UnholierThanThou #Deconstruction #ReligiousDeconstruction #MentalHell #PlatosCave #ReligiousTrauma #FaithDeconstruction #QuestionYourBeliefs #QuestionEverything #ThinkForYourself #Exvangelical #SpiritualDeconstructio Show Notes: Mental Hell - Documentary Connect with Caitlin on YouTube Deconstruction Course Conscious Rebel Podcast Caitlin's Substack The Video They Don't Want You To See Support the show

  3. Sep 8

    Is Meditation Really a Portal for Demons? | Paul Davis Explains

    For years, many Christians have been taught that meditation, certain spiritual practices, and anything outside of traditional Christianity can open the door to demonic influence. But is that actually biblical? Or have fear-based teachings convinced Christians that they're constantly walking through a spiritual minefield? In this episode of Unholier Than Thou, Jennifer welcomes back returning guest Paul Davis from RealGoodNews.org for a fascinating conversation about Christianity, meditation, fear, anxiety, consciousness, spirituality, and what happens when we start questioning the things we were taught to fear. Paul shares his experience attending a Dr. Joe Dispenza retreat, including how the experience impacted his understanding of meditation and consciousness. One of the biggest questions raised in this episode is simple: If Christians believe Jesus and the Holy Spirit must be willingly invited into someone's life, why do they believe a demon can simply enter without permission? Are we living in faith? Or are we living in fear?  Let us know what YOU think in the comments. If you enjoy conversations about deconstruction, Christianity, spirituality, religious trauma, consciousness, and questioning inherited beliefs, make sure to subscribe to Unholier Than Thou.  Connect with Paul at RealGoodNews.org Conscious Rebel Podcast  Like this video Leave a comment Subscribe for more conversations that challenge the narrative #Meditation #Christianity #Deconstruction #ChristConsciousness #Oneness #DrJoeDispenza #ReligiousTrauma #Spirituality #Exvangelical #UnholierThanThou Support the show

  4. Sep 1

    THE MICA MILLER CASE: The Pastor, the Church & Everything They Didn’t Want You to Know

    In this episode of Unholier Than Thou, I’m joined by my husband Ryan -aka Smitty - as we take a deep dive into the history and timeline behind one of the most talked-about and controversial cases in recent true crime. Mica Miller’s death in April 2024 shocked the country and sparked countless questions, investigations, online theories, and intense public scrutiny. But to understand why this case has captured so much attention, you have to go back and examine the complicated history that came before it. From Mica's relationship and marriage to pastor John-Paul “JP” Miller, to allegations of abuse and stalking, the religious and church dynamics surrounding the case, and the death of Chris Skinner, we’re unpacking the timeline and discussing the disturbing questions that continue to surround this story. We also take a closer look at the role that religious authority, coercive control, church culture, and spiritual abuse can play when power and relationships collide. Throughout this episode, we discuss the difference between documented facts, allegations, official findings, and speculation. This is an ongoing story, and we believe it's important to question the narrative while also being responsible about the information we share. So join us as we go down the rabbit hole into the history of the Mica Miller case. What happens when the person you're taught to trust and obey is the person you're trying to escape?  Listener discretion advised: This episode discusses death, alleged abuse, stalking, coercive control, and sensitive topics. If you enjoy this episode, please help support Unholier Than Thou by liking, sharing, subscribing, and leaving a review. Your support helps us continue having uncomfortable conversations, challenging inherited beliefs, and asking the questions others might be afraid to ask. Until next time, stay curious, keep asking questions, think for yourself, and never stop searching for the truth. The answers may not always be comfortable, but the pursuit of truth is always worth it. Thank you for listening. https://988lifeline.org/ https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wLH5vFra4RElgaJCHRYP3?si=9KF0T2V7QYCTmLmZMXOiGg&nd=1&dlsi=e167b7b727054f8b https://open.spotify.com/episode/5hG2idoKckEci1c43shHdV?si=VNHK8yHXTeG33zJn8fC18A https://open.spotify.com/episode/5s2tXjj0CddHcJevShzjNW?si=-YcXryDqRlii7Xl0AAJXgg https://abc11.com/post/mica-miller-case-attorney-urges-passage-micas-law/14915721/ https://www.thehotline.org/ #micamiller #micamillercase #jpmiller #johnpaulmiller #truecrime #churchabuse Support the show

  5. Aug 25

    From Pastor’s Daughter to Deconstruction| Reba’s Journey Out of the IFB

    What happens when you grow up believing you have the truth, but start asking questions anyway? In this episode of Unholier Than Thou, I’m joined by Reba, who was raised in an Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church as a pastor’s daughter. From a young age, she questioned whether she was truly being taught the truth. As she entered adulthood, she began researching the beliefs she had inherited...and discovered they weren’t the whole story. Eventually, Reba made the difficult decision to walk away from her faith. Leaving meant more than changing what she believed; it also meant losing her community and relationships with some family members. But on the other side of that loss, she found freedom from the fear, guilt, and shame that had shaped her life. Today, Reba embraces curiosity, asks the questions she was once afraid to ask, and gives herself permission to experience all that life has to offer. In this conversation, we talk about growing up IFB, questioning inherited beliefs, researching your way out of certainty, religious deconstruction, losing community, navigating family relationships, and discovering who you are when you stop living according to someone else’s rules. If you’ve ever questioned the beliefs you were raised with, felt afraid to ask certain questions, or wondered what life could look like outside the faith you inherited, this conversation is for you. If this episode resonates with you, subscribe or follow the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps Unholier Than Thou continue creating space for honest conversations about faith, doubt, deconstruction, and the freedom to think for yourself. #UnholierThanThou #ReligiousDeconstruction #IFB #Exvangelical #LeavingChristianity #ReligiousTrauma #Deconstruction #QuestionEverything #ThinkForYourself Support the show

  6. Aug 18

    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

  7. 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

  8. 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

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4.6
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Unholier Than Thou is for anyone who has ever questioned the beliefs they were told they weren't allowed to question. We unpack religion, religious trauma, deconstruction, cult dynamics, purity culture, spiritual abuse, and the cultural beliefs that shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. Through raw conversations, personal stories, and thought provoking interviews, we explore what happens when you stop accepting inherited beliefs as unquestionable truth. We talk to survivors, former believers, therapists, authors, pastors, spiritual seekers, and people who have walked away from the systems that once defined them. This isn't about telling you what to believe. It's about giving you permission to ask better questions. Question the narrative. Challenge the paradigm. Expand your perspective. If you're ready to think for yourself, you're in the right place. 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
    81
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Unholier Than Thou
  • Show Website
    Unholier Than Thou