Reclaiming Identity

Kristen Zuray, Abbi DeWitt, Lydia Zuray

Have you wondered why God allowed bad things to happen to you? Do you find yourself second guessing your decisions? Do you feel that no matter how hard you try, your efforts are never good enough? Are you tired of having bad relationships in your family, friends, and significant others? We're so glad you're here! This podcast will give you the tools to help you heal your relationship with God, others, and yourself so that you will have stronger faith, feel confident, and find balance in your life. We are Kristen Zuray, Abbi DeWitt, and Lydia Zuray, a mother/daughter team of Christian Life Coaches and Mentors from the Adi Project. From previously struggling with relational heartbreak, spiritual and emotional abuse, and long term chronic illness- we have struggled to understand God's goodness and His ultimate design for us. We tried to ignore our pain, placed our self-worth in our work, and chased after people's approval only to feel even more lost and rejected. We began to put up walls with the very God who's known for breaking them down. God showed the truth that our identities don't come from our hands. Identity is not about what we do, it's about who God is. We were designed to be a reflection of His image. When we seek to understand and believe in the truth of God's identity and in how He sees us, we begin to heal from our past traumas, grow in confidence, and begin living out in our purposes. If you are ready to reclaim your God-given identity, heal from your relationships, and discover the truth of who God is, then this podcast is for you! So, grab your spiritual armor, a cup of strong coffee, and join us in reclaiming your identity in Christ. Disclaimer: "The views and opinions expressed on Reclaiming Identity are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization, employer, or company. The information provided in this podcast is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Listeners should always seek the advice of a qualified professional regarding any specific concerns." Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

  1. 5d ago

    What Is Church? Body of Christ or a Branded Kingdom?

    What is the church supposed to be? In this solo episode of Reclaiming Identity, Kristen wrestles with a question that has been growing in her heart for over a year: Has the modern church lost its identity? Drawing from personal experience in church culture, ministry, and painful encounters with unhealthy leadership, Kristen explores how church hurt, spiritual abuse, branding, territorialism, and personality-driven ministry can distort God's design for His people. This episode contrasts man-made church kingdoms with the biblical vision of one Church, one Body, one Head, and one mission. You'll hear reflection on: the difference between the Church as Christ's Body and the church as a brand how pride, abuse of authority, and platform-building damage the witness of the Church what Scripture says about unity in the Body of Christ why local congregations matter, but are never meant to become isolated kingdoms practical questions to help you discern whether a church is furthering a mission or operating like a franchise If you've ever felt discouraged by church culture but still love the Bride of Christ, this episode will give language to that tension and point you back to God's original vision. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching:  Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches:  https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching?  Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook.  https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #ChurchHurt #SpiritualAbuse #BodyOfChrist #BiblicalChurch #ChurchUnity #IdentityInChrist #ChristianPodcast #ReclaimingIdentity #HealthyChurch #ChurchLeadership #FaithDeconstruction #SpiritualHealing #TraumaHealing #WesternChurch #KingdomOfGod

    What Is Church? Body of Christ or a Branded Kingdom?
  2. Sep 28

    Spiritual Abuse in Church Leadership: Is it "Spiritual Authority" or a control issue?

    What happens when a spiritual leader crosses the boundary of the authority God gave them? In this episode of Reclaiming Identity, Abigail DeWitt explores spiritual abuse in church leadership and how control, pride, and unhealthy authority can damage both people and the growth of God's church. Drawing from 1 Peter 2, Romans 12, 1 Peter 5, and Acts 6, Abigail unpacks God's design for healthy church leadership. True spiritual leaders are called to shepherd, serve, protect, and care for God's people—not build brands, demand control, or create mini kingdoms. This episode covers: how spiritual abuse can show up in leadership why control and pride distort church growth the difference between biblical care and abusive authority what the early church teaches about shared gifts and Spirit-led leadership why healing from church hurt begins with understanding God's true design If you've struggled with trusting spiritual authority or are sorting through pain from unhealthy church leadership, this episode offers biblical clarity, hope, and direction. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching:  Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches:  https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching?  Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook.  https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #HealthyChurchLeadership #SpiritualAuthority #BiblicalLeadership #ServantLeadership #ChurchGrowth #BodyOfChrist #IdentityInChrist #SpiritualHealing #ChristianPodcast #TraumaHealing #ReclaimingIdentity #ChurchLeadership #TheAdiProject

    Spiritual Abuse in Church Leadership: Is it "Spiritual Authority" or a control issue?
  3. Sep 21

    Church Shunning: Why it's not Biblical

    What is shunning, and is it ever biblical? In this episode of Reclaiming Identity, Kristen Zuray shares why church shunning is not the same as biblical discipline. While Scripture does address correction and separation in certain cases, true discipline is meant for restoration, healing, and protection. Shunning is something very different. Kristen explores how shunning in church often functions as spiritual abuse—cutting people off, isolating them from community, punishing them for asking questions, and pressuring others to choose loyalty to a leader over healthy relationships. In this episode, she discusses: the definition of shunning why shunning is unbiblical how shunning differs from biblical discipline the emotional and spiritual effects of being shunned how shunning distorts a person's identity and view of God warning signs of toxic church culture when it may be time to leave an unhealthy church If you've experienced church hurt, religious trauma, or spiritual abuse recovery, this conversation offers language, clarity, and validation for what you may have lived through. Shunning is not rooted in love, forgiveness, or restoration. It is rooted in rejection, control, and punishment. And it has no place among the people of God. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching:  Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches:  https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching?  Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook.  https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #ChurchShunning #ChurchHurt #SpiritualAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #ToxicChurchCulture #HealingFromChurchHurt #SpiritualAbuseRecovery #ChristianPodcast #TraumaHealing #IdentityInChrist #BiblicalTruth #ChurchLeadership #EmotionalHealing #FaithHealing #ReclaimingIdentity

    Church Shunning: Why it's not Biblical
  4. Sep 14

    Spiritual Abuse Recovery: 4 Marks of Healthy Leaders

    How do you tell the difference between a healthy spiritual leader and a harmful one? In this episode of Reclaiming Identity, Kristen Zuray shares 4 biblical markers of authentic, Christ-like leadership for those recovering from spiritual abuse, church hurt, and religious trauma. If you've been wounded by abusive leadership, it can be hard to know who is safe to trust. Kristen points listeners back to Jesus as the model of true spiritual leadership and explores four essential characteristics: humility wisdom and discernment protection of God's people love Through Scripture and practical insight, this episode contrasts true shepherds with false shepherds and reminds listeners that abusive leaders do not reflect the heart of Christ. If you are healing from spiritual abuse and trying to reclaim a truthful view of God, this episode offers clarity, hope, and biblical grounding. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching:  Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches:  https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching?  Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook.  https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #ReligiousTrauma #SpiritualAbuseRecovery #ChristianPodcast #IdentityInChrist #TraumaHealing #BiblicalLeadership #HealthyLeadership #ChristLikeLeadership #FalseShepherds #FaithHealing #ChurchHealing #ReclaimingIdentity #ChristianHealing

    Spiritual Abuse Recovery: 4 Marks of Healthy Leaders
  5. Sep 7

    Spiritual Abuse: Something We Are Not Meant to Hold Onto

    What happens when spiritual abuse and church hurt distort your view of God, discipleship, and your own identity? In this episode of the Reclaiming Identity Podcast, Abbi DeWitt welcomes first-time guest Rosie Tanner for a compassionate conversation about spiritual abuse recovery, religious trauma, healthy church community, and healing in Christ. Rosie shares her personal story of experiencing abuse and learning to distinguish between biblical conviction and spiritual control. Together, Abbi and Rosie discuss the ways manipulation, shame, unhealthy expectations, and misuse of spiritual authority can leave deep wounds—and how safe community, healthy discipleship, truth, and the love of Jesus can become part of healing. If you have experienced church hurt, toxic leadership, religious manipulation, or spiritual trauma, this episode offers hope: what happened to you was not God's design, and your identity is not defined by the harm you endured. Healing is possible, faith can be rebuilt, and you do not have to take the next step alone. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching:  Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches:  https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching?  Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook.  https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #ReligiousTrauma #TraumaHealing #HealingFromTrauma #SpiritualAbuseRecovery #HealingFromChurchHurt #IdentityInChrist #ChristianHealing #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndHealing #HealthyChurch #BiblicalHealing #ChurchTrauma #ReclaimingIdentity

    Spiritual Abuse: Something We Are Not Meant to Hold Onto
  6. Aug 31

    Spiritual Abuse in Families & Friendships: 7 Warning Signs

    What does spiritual abuse look like when it happens outside the church and inside families or friendships? In this episode of Reclaiming Identity, Kristen Zuray and Abbi DeWitt explore 7 warning signs of spiritual abuse in family relationships and friendships. They discuss how abusive dynamics can hide behind Christian language, distorted Scripture, fear, guilt, and unhealthy control. If you've ever been made to feel that questioning a person meant questioning God, or if setting boundaries brought shame, pressure, or fear, this conversation will help you put language to what may have been happening. In this episode: spiritually silencing twisting or weaponizing Scripture conditional love isolation manipulation and control fear hiding sin and deflecting blame This episode speaks to those processing church hurt, religious trauma, toxic Christian family dynamics, and the long-term impact of spiritual abuse. Kristen and Abbi also remind listeners that abuse never reflects the true heart of God. Healing is possible, and truth can replace the lies spiritual abuse leaves behind. If this episode resonates with you, Called By Name was created as a resource to help reveal God's true character and support healing from spiritual abuse. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching:  Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches:  https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching?  Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook.  https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #ReligiousTrauma #TraumaHealing #IdentityInChrist #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualHealing #WeaponizedScripture #ChristianBoundaries #FamilyAbuse #EmotionalHealing #ToxicFamilyDynamics #FaithHealing #HealingFromChurchHurt #ReclaimingIdentity

    Spiritual Abuse in Families & Friendships: 7 Warning Signs
  7. Aug 24

    Spiritual Abuse vs Church Hurt: 6 Red Flags You Shouldn't Ignore

    Was it church hurt… or something deeper? In this episode, Kristen and Abbi discuss what spiritual abuse can look like and why many Christians recognize pain in church but don't always have language for abuse, manipulation, control, and misuse of spiritual authority. Drawing from their lived experiences and observations over decades, they explain how spiritual abuse in church often hides behind religious language, ministry culture, and outward appearances of health. They break down 6 major red flags of spiritual abuse: deflection of responsibility instilling fear exaggerated spiritual authority or overbearing power self-serving motivations undefined or moving expectations twisting Scripture This episode is for anyone who has ever wondered: Was that really God? Why didn't something in church feel right? Was this just church hurt, or was it spiritual abuse? They also emphasize that spiritual abuse is not limited to churches or Christianity and can show up in families, leadership systems, and other religious settings as well. If this episode resonates with your story, know that Jesus is not the source of abuse, and healing is possible. You don't need to walk away from your faith to walk away from abusive dynamics. For support in your healing journey, connect with The Adi Project. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching:  Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches:  https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching?  Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook.  https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #ChurchHurt #SpiritualAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #TraumaHealing #IdentityInChrist #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualHealing #ChurchLeadership #ToxicChurchCulture #HealingFromTrauma #FaithHealing #BiblicalTruth #EmotionalHealing #ChristianCoaching #ReclaimingIdentity

    Spiritual Abuse vs Church Hurt: 6 Red Flags You Shouldn't Ignore
  8. Aug 17

    I am who you say I am: How to accept your identity in Christ

    How do you stop believing the lies and start living in your identity in Christ? Many believers know what the Bible says about them, yet still wrestle with shame, insecurity, fear, and constant accusations. In this episode of the Reclaiming Identity Podcast, Kristen Zuray explores practical, biblical steps to help you recognize spiritual attacks, distinguish God's conviction from condemnation, and confidently walk in the identity Jesus has already given you. Together we'll discuss: Identity in Christ Spiritual warfare Conviction vs. condemnation The Armor of God Isaiah 54:17 King David's restoration Renewing your mind Rejecting lies and embracing truth If you're tired of second-guessing yourself or carrying shame that God never intended you to bear, this conversation offers practical encouragement rooted in Scripture. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching:  Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches:  https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching?  Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook.  https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #IdentityInChrist#SpiritualWarfare#ArmorOfGod#BiblicalTruth#ConvictionNotCondemnation#RenewYourMind#ChristianGrowth#FaithJourney#ChurchHurt#TraumaHealing#HealingInChrist#GodsTruth#ChristianPodcast#BibleTeaching#ReclaimingIdentity

    I am who you say I am: How to accept your identity in Christ
5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Have you wondered why God allowed bad things to happen to you? Do you find yourself second guessing your decisions? Do you feel that no matter how hard you try, your efforts are never good enough? Are you tired of having bad relationships in your family, friends, and significant others? We're so glad you're here! This podcast will give you the tools to help you heal your relationship with God, others, and yourself so that you will have stronger faith, feel confident, and find balance in your life. We are Kristen Zuray, Abbi DeWitt, and Lydia Zuray, a mother/daughter team of Christian Life Coaches and Mentors from the Adi Project. From previously struggling with relational heartbreak, spiritual and emotional abuse, and long term chronic illness- we have struggled to understand God's goodness and His ultimate design for us. We tried to ignore our pain, placed our self-worth in our work, and chased after people's approval only to feel even more lost and rejected. We began to put up walls with the very God who's known for breaking them down. God showed the truth that our identities don't come from our hands. Identity is not about what we do, it's about who God is. We were designed to be a reflection of His image. When we seek to understand and believe in the truth of God's identity and in how He sees us, we begin to heal from our past traumas, grow in confidence, and begin living out in our purposes. If you are ready to reclaim your God-given identity, heal from your relationships, and discover the truth of who God is, then this podcast is for you! So, grab your spiritual armor, a cup of strong coffee, and join us in reclaiming your identity in Christ. Disclaimer: "The views and opinions expressed on Reclaiming Identity are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization, employer, or company. The information provided in this podcast is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Listeners should always seek the advice of a qualified professional regarding any specific concerns." Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014