Sons of Patriarchy
Peter Bell & Sarah Bader
What happens when biblical patriarchy, christian nationalism, and a theology of authority and submission become the pillars of a movement? Scores of abuse stories in marriages, schools, churches, families, and more. Though these ideas have filtered throughout the United States for decades, they found a home in Moscow, Idaho, through the ministry and work of Doug Wilson. From there, they have influenced churches across the United States, and across the world.
In this series, you'll hear from experts on all aspects of these movements, and the stories of abuse from those who survived. Some are Christian, some are not, but one thing they've got in common?
They're finally speaking out.
This is their story.
In this series, you'll hear from experts on all aspects of these movements, and the stories of abuse from those who survived. Some are Christian, some are not, but one thing they've got in common?
They're finally speaking out.
This is their story.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 24, 2025 • 2h 23min
Wes Bredenhof & Camille de Vos
Wes Bredenhof, a Reformed pastor with deep insights into Doug Wilson's influence, and Camille de Vos, a biblical counselor and artist, share pivotal conversations about the patriarchal church culture. They discuss Wilson's controversial theological impact in Canadian and Australian churches, examining his charming style juxtaposed with serious concerns. Camille highlights patterns of abuse within the Free Reformed Churches of Australia, advocating for grace-based counseling and the need for accountability in protecting vulnerable members. Their insights aim to spark meaningful change.
Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 15min
Disarming Leviathan: Loving Your Christian Nationalist Neighbor
In this engaging discussion, Caleb Campbell, Pastor of Desert Springs Bible Church and author, shares insights on navigating friendships with Christian nationalists. He reflects on his teenage involvement with extremist groups and how personal experiences shaped his views. Caleb delves into the complexities of American Christian nationalism, explaining its nostalgic allure and the fear of ethnic erasure. He also offers practical advice for meaningful conversations, encouraging humility and spiritual preparation as tools for healing divisive beliefs.
Feb 17, 2025 • 1h 14min
Understanding Spiritual Abuse
Dr. Karen Roudkovski, a licensed professional counselor specializing in trauma and spiritual abuse, shares her insights on recognizing and addressing spiritual abuse within religious institutions. She discusses how to identify key markers of abusers and the institutional factors that enable such behavior. Karen emphasizes the impact of spiritual abuse on faith and identity, offering empathy-driven guidance for supporting survivors. She also advocates for proper training for ministers and better protocols when addressing abuse claims in churches.
Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 43min
Too Opinionated: Abuse in the PCA, Part 2
Colleen McConnell, a former member of St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, and Megan Owen, founder of Mountain City Christian Counseling, share their harrowing experiences with domestic abuse in the PCA. They discuss the complexities of navigating church structures that often prioritize reputation over victim support. Colleen highlights her successful fight for justice within the PCA, while Megan reveals the harmful counsel she received from church leaders. Together, they advocate for reform and genuine care in faith communities, emphasizing the importance of empowering women to escape abusive relationships.
Feb 10, 2025 • 53min
A Conversation with Tia Levings on "A Well-Trained Wife"
Tia Levings, an author and survivor, shares her harrowing journey from Christian patriarchy in her memoir, A Well-Trained Wife. She discusses the manipulation and control she faced from influential movements like IBLP and homeschooling cultures. Tia reveals how personal tragedy sparked her resistance and led her to question the oppressive structures. With a focus on healing, she offers advice to others in similar situations, highlighting the importance of survivor stories in breaking free from these harmful systems.
Feb 6, 2025 • 2h 25min
Millstones: Abuse in the OPC, Part 7
In this compelling conversation, Caroline Garcia Osborne shares her harrowing story of grooming and spiritual abuse by Boyd Miller, shedding light on the alarming realities within the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. An anonymous woman corroborates Caroline's account, illuminating the systemic failures of church leadership in addressing abuse allegations. The guests reflect on their emotional turmoil and the urgent need for reform, advocating for accountability, healing, and a supportive framework for survivors to reclaim their voices.
Feb 3, 2025 • 1h 32min
How to Rule Your Wife (and Kids)
Sheila Wray Gregoire, founder of Bare Marriage and author of multiple books on relationships, and Marissa Burt, author of "The Myth of Good Christian Parenting," dive into the flaws of traditional evangelical teachings. They challenge the notion of women as mere vessels for men, advocating for genuine intimacy that respects both partners' desires. The duo critiques punitive parenting methods and emphasizes nurturing over discipline, promoting equality in marriage and a reevaluation of influential doctrines that shape family dynamics.
Jan 30, 2025 • 2h 24min
Excommunicated: Abuse in the PCA, Part 1
Joyce Rohe, a former member of Rio Vista Community Church, shares her harrowing experience of marital abuse and unjust church discipline. Lynna Sutherland, founder of Advocacy from the Presbyterian Pew, discusses the complexities of PCA polity and the challenges victims face. Donna Westcott, a licensed counselor, critiques biblical counseling's shortcomings and emphasizes the need for trauma-informed approaches. Together, they explore systemic issues in handling abuse and advocate for compassion, education, and justice in church settings.
Jan 27, 2025 • 1h 37min
Second in Rank
Beth Allison Barr, a history professor and author, delves into the patriarchal roots of 'biblical womanhood.' Kate West, a former insider, shares her journey out of tradwife circles, highlighting the confining expectations placed on women. Hannah Oliver recounts her experience in Doug Wilson-adjacent communities and the pressure to conform to outdated ideals. The discussion covers the unrealistic standards of domesticity, the effects of gendered literature, and offers hope for those seeking to escape oppressive structures in the name of faith.
Jan 23, 2025 • 1h 37min
Covered Up: Abuse in the OPC, Part 6
Theresa Garcia Robertson, a former Covenant OPC member, shares her chilling story of grooming and abuse by Pastor Boyd Miller. Zach LeReaux discusses Doug Wilson's teachings, emphasizing the crucial role men play in addressing abuse. Caroline McKuen, founder of the Presbyterian Advocacy Coalition, highlights the systemic failures within church leadership when responding to allegations. Together, they tackle the longstanding cover-ups and call for accountability and reform, igniting a conversation on how faith communities can better support survivors.
