

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

Nov 18, 2024 • 1h 33min
The Roots of Nationalism
Join philosophy professor Kevin Vallier, who explores the complexities of Catholic integralism, and Jerome Kopolsky, a research fellow focused on the American founding. They delve into how integralism and Protestant nationalism intersect, and why integralism isn't inherently nationalist. Kopolsky unpacks the intentions of America's founders, discussing whether the U.S. was meant to be a Christian nation. The conversation also touches on the persistent public religious establishments and the emergence of religious pluralism, illustrating the intricate relationship between faith and politics.

Nov 14, 2024 • 2h 5min
Immersive Communities: Abuse in the CREC, Part 3
In this discussion, Tony Baker, former COO at New Saint Andrews College, shares troubling insights about mismanagement and abuse cover-ups within the institution. His wife, Kimberly Baker, adds valuable context from her experiences in their community. They explore the emotional toll of social exclusion, the hidden harms in community growth, and the importance of accountability in church leadership. The conversation delves into how strict religious norms led to manipulation and trauma, advocating for spiritual freedom and the need for open dialogue.

4 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 1h 4min
Moscow Nationalism
Join Doug Wilson, a controversial pastor steeped in the Christian Nationalist movement, Keely Emerine-Mix, a vocal critic and local debater, and Stephen Wolfe, author and influential figure in Christian nationalism. They dive into the roots of this movement, exploring how local actions triggered a national phenomenon. The conversation scrutinizes the nuanced relationship between faith and governance, the impact of local leadership, and the quest for cultural identity. Expect a candid critique of misguided leadership and a call for genuine compassion in confronting complex societal issues.

Nov 9, 2024 • 47min
BONUS: Why Does Sons of Patriarchy Exist? A Conversation with Sarah Bader
Join Sarah Bader, a dedicated survivor advocate from Moscow, Idaho, as she dives into her journey exposing spiritual and institutional abuse. She shares her experiences engaging with local churches and the harmful influence of Doug Wilson. Sarah discusses how media coverage has shaped awareness and the overwhelming response from survivors after a key interview. Focusing on the podcast’s mission, she emphasizes the importance of validating survivor experiences and confronting systemic issues, urging community support and activism.

Nov 7, 2024 • 1h 19min
Groomed to Submit: Abuse in the CREC, Part 2
Emilie Paige Dye, a courageous former student from Logos School, shares her harrowing experiences of grooming and abuse by a teacher. She discusses the insidious normalization of affection that masked the violation, her feelings of isolation and confusion in the aftermath, and the systemic silence enforced by the school. Emilie reveals the lack of accountability from leadership, the psychological toll of her experiences, and her journey toward healing. She emphasizes the need for cultural change and urges others facing similar battles to seek support and know they are not alone.

Nov 4, 2024 • 1h 12min
The Apostle to the Patriarchs
Doug Wilson, a controversial pastor, is known for his Christian Reconstructionist views and provocative essays. Joining him are Nick Gier, his former professor with a rich background in philosophical theology, and Russell Moore, a prominent evangelical leader. They dive into Wilson's early influences, the rise of figures like Mark Driscoll, and the effects of ideologies on modern evangelicalism. The conversation also critiques models of masculinity, emphasizing accountability, and contrasts legacies within church leadership, calling for a more inclusive and responsible approach.

Oct 31, 2024 • 1h
When VICE Broke the Dam: Abuse in the CREC, Part 1
Sarah Stankorb, a religion reporter and author, shares her insights on abuse within the CREC, highlighting her groundbreaking Vice article and her book Disobedient Women. She discusses the environmental factors that foster abuse, such as celebrity authority and theological submission. Stankorb explains the challenges survivors face, including delayed disclosure and victim-blaming, and offers advice on how communities can better support those leaving abusive churches. Her reporting has sparked significant conversations, revealing a deeper understanding of these complex issues.

13 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 1h 14min
The War on the Evangellyfish
Kristin Kobes Du Mez, a history professor at Calvin University and author of "Jesus and John Wayne," dives into the rise of Christian Nationalism and figures like Doug Wilson. She unpacks the evolution of evangelical masculinity and its extreme views gaining acceptance over time. The conversation highlights the societal influences on conservative evangelicals and critiques rigid family dynamics promoted within the community. Du Mez also addresses the emotional costs of these ideologies and the complex interplay between faith and modernity.

Oct 21, 2024 • 6min
Sons of Patriarchy Promo
Series begins 10.28.24 Watch our YouTube or X/Twitter for the video and guest list. Cover by Ængel Greenfield. Sound Design by Aaron Feeney.

Oct 14, 2024 • 3min
Introducing: Sons of Patriarchy
Donate to help the survivor network here. Join: Private Survivor Support Group. Sign up for our Patreon here. Visit sonsofpatriarchy.com to find resources, recommended reading, and more. Social Media: Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook Examining Doug Wilson and Moscow: Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Patriarchy, we're coming for you. Sons of Patriarchy is brought to you by Producer, Writer, Editor, and Host: Peter Bell Original Music, Sound Design, and Mixing: https://aaronfeeneymusic.com/ Assistant Producer: Examining Doug Wilson and Moscow Social Media: Sarah Bader Graphic Design: Anonymous Survivors FOR THE SURVIVORS. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sons-of-patriarchy7078/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sons-of-patriarchy--6517628/support.


