Soul Bruises (Christie Hodson)

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The "Soul Bruises" podcast, hosted by Christie Hodson, delves into the often ugly and concealed realities of spiritual abuse. It addresses the weariness and sadness that arise from hearing stories of abuse at the hands of spiritual leaders and the troubling absence of accountability for these abusers. The podcast seeks to shed light on the damage hidden behind the veils of religion, faith, and dogma.

Through candid conversations, powerful stories, and the wisdom of those who have experienced spiritual abuse, "Soul Bruises" aims to educate its listeners about what spiritual abuse looks like and how it manifests in various aspects of our lives. It's a sanctuary of trust, a place of learning, and a platform for elevating the voices of survivors who have been silenced for too long.

The podcast is dedicated to building safe havens within religious spaces, homes, communities, and personal lives. It is committed to reclaiming the peace and solace that spirituality can provide and promoting decency and kindness toward fellow humans. 

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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Spiritual abuse can be a very sensitive topic!  I felt it necessary to give a disclaimer, for anyone that might find the information shared on this podcast, to be triggering .  I do not want to cause any further trauma to anyone.  I understand if you are a victim of spiritual abuse that this may be the last thing you want to listen to.  If you can't, please encourage your friends and family to  listen to it instead.  You need all the support you can get from your fellow humankind.  If you DO listen, please do so at your comfort level, keeping in mind your mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health.  Also please let me know if there is ANYTHING you would add to this podcast to be more compassionate to the spiritual abuse survivor's reality.   

Safety in our spiritual and religious spaces is EVERYONE'S responsibility. Together, we can work to get rid of the darkness of abuse by shedding light on this difficult topic through empathy, love and kindness.  It begins with acknowledging the harsh realities of spiritual abuse by bringing it out from under the rug and into the open, to process, learn and ultimately heal.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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This introductory episode of Soul Bruises sets the stage for the podcast's mission—to uncover the reality of spiritual abuse, understand its impact on individuals, and discuss ways to combat it. Your host, Christie emphasizes the importance of listener participation and involvement to this issue.

Christie's personal motivation stems from witnessing far too many loved ones who have experienced  spiritual abuse and feeling compelled to speak out against this harm. Inspired by a podcast detailing abusive behavior within a religious community, she was motivated to move from a neutral stance to actively confronting the issue of spiritual abuse head on. This podcast aims to delve into the complexities of this subject, promising an honest examination without minimizing cases of abuse.

In the upcoming episodes, Christie plans to address questions surrounding spiritual abuse by examining its definitions and characteristics and promises to navigate the delicate balance of discussing abuse without blaming the entirety of the church or religion.

 The host pledges to vehemently call out cases of abuse without minimizing them and emphasizes support for victims and their healing journeys. Ultimately, the goal is to create awareness, foster empathy, and challenge the audience to actively stand against spiritual abuse, making churches and communities devoid of this harm. 

This podcast episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to join the journey of discovery and healing, urging them to be part of the battle against spiritual abuse.  

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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As we start on this journey, I'd like to echo the words of Elie Weisel: "Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented." With this episode, we're raising our voices against an oppressor that often goes unnoticed - spiritual abuse. Through personal experiences, insights from experts, and stories of those who've survived, we'll navigate this often misunderstood, but deeply consequential issue. Specifically, we'll examine how the Christian community, the very sanctuary that should foster love and acceptance, can inadvertently become a breeding ground for such abuse. 

In the second half, we bring a ray of hope to those who've been victimized, shedding light on the healing process. The existence of spiritual abuse, much like a bone bruise, might be discernible to only the one who experiences the pain. However, acknowledging the pain is the first step towards healing. Drawing parallels to medical wound debriefment, we'll understand the importance of exposing the injury. We'll disentangle the fear of harming reputations or the church's image, emphasizing that the highest service we can offer to God's kingdom is to ensure it's a safe space for all. Let's journey together in this episode as we work towards glorifying God, strengthening the church, and promoting healing for victims of spiritual abuse.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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Have you ever felt the heavy burden of spiritual abuse within a faith community?   Our journey into the shadows of spiritual manipulation begins here, where I hope to guide you through the often-misunderstood realm of spiritual abuse. 

We're not just scratching the surface; we're exposing the deep-rooted patterns of control that have caused generational hurt across all faith traditions. With the expertise of thought leaders like Jeff VanVonderen and James Rochford, we dissect the misuse of religious authority and differentiate between the healable missteps and the intentional harm that demands strong preventive action.

Peering into the aftermath of spiritual abuse, we navigate the psychological maze with guidance from experts like Ron Enroth, Dr. Lisa Oakley, Justin Humphreys, and many more as we come to understand the profound impact of abuse on the soul. This episode isn't meant to merely inform; it's a call to arms for those within the Christian community and beyond to create a culture of prevention and healing. Soul Bruises confronts the controversies head-on, debating the adequacy of the term 'spiritual abuse' and the necessity of using precise language to give appropriate weight to these agonizing experiences.

Our resolve is to empower and equip our listeners with the knowledge needed to shield our communities from spiritual predators. Organizations like GRACE are at the forefront, and Soul Bruises shares their mission to initiate a vital cultural shift within the church. Under the leadership of Pete Singer, GRACE's dedication to protecting the vulnerable highlights that change isn't just possible; it's imperative.

By tuning in, you're taking the first step toward standing with the wounded and becoming an advocate for change.

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Step behind the curtain of spiritual trust with me as we  unearth the dark intricacies of deception that plague the paths of the faithful. This Soul Bruises episode peels back the layers of deceit woven into the fabric of spiritual communities, using the enigmatic life of John Harvey Kellogg as a case study.   As you listen, discover the subtle yet devastating ways that seemingly trustworthy figures mask their true intentions, and how these tactics shape the perilous dynamics of spiritual abuse. 

This episode brings attention to how crucial it is to differentiate between the outward appearances and the hidden truths, empowering you to stand against manipulation and preserve the sanctity of your spiritual haven.

We must be ever vigilant against the "wolves in sheep's clothing" that seek to lead us astray. This conversation is a rallying cry to uphold the integrity of our faith communities, drawing wisdom from scripture and historical insight. By educating ourselves we can start to identify the signs of deception and lies in the context of spiritual abuse, the significance of self-awareness, and the strategies for fortifying our defenses against false prophets. 

This podcast episode will share insights that will embolden you to protect your spiritual flock and emphasize the imperative need to  confront those who wear the cloak of religious authority to deceive others.

Concluding this episode journey into deception and lies, Soul Bruises shines a light on the essential quest for truth, examining how education, personal boundaries, and community support can safeguard against the shadows that seek to disorient our beliefs. The tale of lawyer F.E. Smith is recounted, whose cunningness in court, exemplifies the triumph of truth over falsehood. 

This episode is not just an exposé; it's a call to arms to join forces in the collective pursuit of enlightenment and integrity. 

Tune in and arm yourself with the knowledge to discern and dismantle the deceptive tactics that may lurk within your spiritual circles.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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Have you ever navigated a staircase, wary of that one perilous step you know to skip? That's the essence of the 'missing stair', an analogy we explore in a special bonus episode of Soul Bruises, which casts light on the often unseen perils within our spiritual communities. We delve into the metaphor's origin and its startling relevance to spiritual abuse, illuminating the dangers of ignoring harmful behaviors that, like a literal missing stair, threaten our collective wellbeing. And for those who have encountered such unsettling realities, know that this discussion is a sanctuary where understanding and healing are at the forefront.

Joining the conversation are the Silo Sisters, Phoebe Hunt, Bonnie Sims, and Melody Walker, whose moving lyrics in "The Missing Stair" echo the whispers and warnings of communities that, instead of repairing what's broken, teach newcomers to simply tread carefully. As we unpack the song and its haunting depiction of overlooked hazards, we issue a resounding call to action. It's time to fix these stairs—to confront and correct the predators in disguise. This episode is more than a conversation; it's an invitation to become an active participant in the transformation of our spiritual spaces. 

YouTube link for the song "The Missing Stair" by the Silo Sisters
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPNh-ZIdaYk

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Have you ever considered the profound impact of power within your spiritual community? This episode pulls back the curtain on the often-invisible abuse of power, where control and authority can distort faith's nurturing environment. With the wisdom of Diane Langberg guiding us, we dissect the spiritual abuse triad – power, control, and authority – and investigate how these forces can either build or destroy. We draw parallels with historical figures like Lincoln, Pittacus and Fred Rogers, exploring the measure of character necessary to handle power justly and the crucial responsibility that comes with wielding it.

The allure of charismatic leadership is a double-edged sword, one that can both inspire and devastate. We scrutinize the delicate balance of power in religious settings, particularly within patriarchal structures and traditional barriers against female ordination. The examination goes deeper as we uncover the intricate dance between vulnerability and power and the implications of this dynamic on the character of spiritual leaders. Through the tragic cautionary tale of Jim Jones, we illustrate our collective susceptibility to charming authority and underscore the necessity of discernment in spiritual guidance.

As we wrap up this introspective journey, we turn the mirror on ourselves, asking how we individually engage with the power we possess. We reflect on the behaviors and tactics that emerge from wielding influence, stressing the importance of coupling power with compassion and humanity. This episode is not just a listening experience; it's an invitation to engage with us, to share your thoughts and continue the conversation. Together, let's navigate the delicate balance of power in our lives with intentionality and care, ensuring it becomes a force for good in our hands.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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Ever felt the discomfort of a conversation that doesn't seem right in a spiritual setting?  I, Christie, pull back the curtain on the darker side of faith communities, spotlighting the fine line between spiritual guidance and coercive control. With an eye on those who twist faith for their own benefit, Soul Bruises attempts to peel back the layers to reveal behaviors and tactics that harm and control, rather than heal and guide.

With insights from author Amanda Montell, we delve into the power of language in high-control groups, showing how words can build walls around minds. Charismatic leaders, such as Jim Jones, used their oratory prowess to bind their followers in an alternate reality.  I want this episode to equip you to recognize these patterns and resist their pull. This episode challenges the notion that only certain types of people are susceptible to cultish influence; it's not about intellect, but situation. Hear how thought-terminating clichés serve as red flags, and learn to navigate speech that's designed to end questioning.

Ending on a note of empowerment, we navigate the treacherous waters of spiritual communities led by narcissistic individuals. The misuse of scripture and faith through intimidation and fear is laid bare, urging us to foster environments that welcome questions and personal growth. The touchstone for a healthy faith community, as we will explore, is the ability to engage openly with religious teachings and to prioritize individual discernment. Discover how to recognize spiritual abuse and the importance of reclaiming personal spiritual agency in a space that should champion exploration and diversity of thought.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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What if the pain you thought was just "church hurt" was actually something much more severe? Today on the Soul Bruises podcast, we return from our hiatus to confront the unsettling reality of spiritual abuse head-on. We explore why it's critical to listen to the voices of those who've endured this trauma, how the term "abuse" carries a weight that "church hurt" does not, and why skipping to the positives without addressing the harm is not an option. Victims deserve our attention, our belief, and our action. We delve into the importance of acknowledging these issues to mend broken institutions and facilitate collective healing.

In our discussion on healing, we emphasize the need for proper church governance and law enforcement's role when criminal activities are involved. We explore the development of safety policies and the crucial contributions of organizations like GRACE and Ministry Safe in providing resources and training. We stress the importance of validating victims' experiences, recognizing religious trauma, and ensuring thorough investigations. Tune in to find out how you can stay connected with us on Instagram, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube and be part of this essential conversation.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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Spiritual abuse can shatter faith and trust in devastating ways. Imagine an environment where authority becomes a tool for manipulation rather than guidance. In this episode of Soul Bruises, we tackle the harrowing reality of spiritual abuse within religious settings, dissecting how authority and distorted loyalty can morph into instruments of harm. Learn how to differentiate between genuine spiritual authority and the misuse of power that leads to exploitation and suffering, and understand why speaking up is crucial for mental and spiritual well-being.

Journey with us as we examine historical and modern figures like William Wilberforce, Pope Gregory the Great, Thomas Merton, Henry J. M. Nouwen &  Jill & Jinger from the Duggar family, whose lives highlight the dual-edged nature of spiritual authority. By delving into their insights, we uncover the qualities of healthy leadership—humility, accountability, respect for autonomy, and community-building. Through personal stories and testimonies, we shed light on the dark corners of spiritual abuse, offering a pathway to reclaiming faith and trust.

In our critical analysis of Bill Gothard's controversial teachings and the dynamics within his organization, we expose the dangers of absolute obedience and hierarchical control. Hear firsthand accounts from individuals like Jill Duggar Dillard and Jinger Duggar Vuolo, who bravely share their experiences of entrapment and the struggle for autonomy. We close with a hopeful vision for church communities, advocating for empathy and compassion, and highlighting real-world examples of churches making a positive impact. Join us in this candid and necessary conversation to foster safer, more supportive spiritual environments.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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Wade Mullen's RESTORE 2022 conference talk that mentions DARVO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-I-w6rPMy5M&t=1933s

Rachel Denhollander's trial transcript  & verbal testimony
Transcript:  https://www.cnn.com/2018/01/24/us/rachael-denhollander-full-statement/index.html
Testimony:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CjVOLToRJk


Spiritual abuse is an insidious force that can silence even the most courageous voices. Explore this hidden realm with me, Christie Hodson, as we uncover the manipulation tactic known as DARVO—Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender. Originally identified by psychologist Jennifer Freyd, DARVO is a cunning strategy often used by abusers to twist the truth and avoid accountability. We’ll dissect how spiritual leaders and institutions wield this tactic to paint themselves as victims, thereby complicating the journey to justice for the true sufferers.

Understanding the role of bystanders in abuse scenarios is crucial. Often bound by betrayal blindness, they may inadvertently support abusers through inaction. Through infamous cases like Larry Nassar and Bill Hybels, we'll reveal how abusers manipulate perceptions and how bystanders can break free from these psychological barriers. I challenge every listener to confront their biases and recognize the moral weight of standing up for those who are most vulnerable.

Our journey doesn't stop with identifying the problem; it seeks to transform our spiritual spaces into sanctuaries of support and honesty. We’ll examine the allegations against Bill Hybels and the misuse of DARVO that followed, illustrating the necessity for transparency and accountability. By comparing these situations to how Grace Community Church handled similar accusations, we find a roadmap for creating healthier spiritual environments. Join me on Soul Bruises as we push for a future where awareness, kindness, and humanity reshape our communities.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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This episode explores:

* The troubling dynamics of indoctrination, thought suppression, and mind         control within spiritual communities.
* We emphasize the importance of nurturing critical thinking and personal           autonomy to foster genuine spiritual growth.
*  Analysis of emotional and logical aspects of faith
* The role of indoctrination in suppressing individual thought
* Discussion on moral vs. spiritual education and their impacts   
* Examination of thought suppression tactics in faith settings
* Insights on reactance theory and spiritual bypassing 
* Reflections on maintaining critical thinking in spirituality

This is a link to Marlene Winell's website & the diagram that she created on  childhood indoctrination
https://www.journeyfree.org/author/marlene/

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."

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Show Note Links:
Allender Center: https://theallendercenter.org/
Allender Center Podcast: https://theallendercenter.org/category/podcast/
Restore Conference: https://julieroys.com/restore/
"The Roys Report" Podcast: https://julieroys.com/podcast/
Steven Hassan's Influence Continuum: https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/influence-continuum/
Steven Hassans BITE Model of Authoritarian Control: https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/bite-model-pdf-download/
Dr. Janja Lalich website & resources: https://www.lalichcenter.org/

Description of the Episode:
Mind control represents the most dangerous form of psychological manipulation in religious settings, designed to influence and dominate a person's thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors without their awareness.

• Differences between Mind Control, Brainwashing, Thought Reform, and Bounded Choice
• Steven Hassan's BITE model (Behavior, Information, Thought, Emotional control) explaining psychological control techniques
• Historical examples of mind control including the Nazi regime, Scientology, and the Stanford Prison Experiment
• How high-control groups exploit normal human desires for belonging and connection
• Dr. Janja Lalich's Bounded Choice Theory explaining why people remain in controlling groups
• Warning signs that a religious organization may be using mind control tactics
• The importance of maintaining autonomy and critical thinking in spiritual contexts
• Robert J. Lifton's eight criteria for thought reform environments
• Resources for those affected by spiritual abuse including the Allender Center & The Restore Conference

Faith should not be about living in fear or control. Christ offers freedom, not bondage. Your spiritual journey belongs to you and you have the right to seek truth for yourself.

"Be Human, Be Kind, Be Both."