We Are One

In this episode, Olivia sits down with Amanda—an advocate and survivor you may recognize from the Let Us Prey documentary. Amanda has continued to bravely speak out, shedding light on the abuse and cover-ups within the IFB, particularly at First Baptist Church of Hammond (FBCH), Hyles-Anderson College (HAC), and Hammond Baptist (HB).

Born and raised in this environment, Amanda opens up about what life was really like behind the scenes. She shares disturbing insights into how FBCH operated, including how massive scandals were routinely swept under the rug. From the manipulation in the bus ministry to shocking scare tactics—like the time she was pressured into swallowing live goldfish—Amanda’s story reveals the deeply rooted control and fear used to maintain power.

In this special introduction to our latest series, Olivia sets the stage for an in-depth look at Jack Hyles, his family, and the empire he built at First Baptist Church of Hammond (FBCOH). This episode explores the foundation of his influence, the deep-rooted scandals that shook FBCOH, and the role of organizations like the Christian Law Association (CLA) in protecting churches instead of survivors.

From the shocking cases of Jack Schaap and Dave Hyles to the culture of silence within the IFB, Olivia breaks down the layers of controversy surrounding this powerful institution. Featuring archival clips and firsthand accounts, this episode lays the groundwork for a gripping series that uncovers the truth behind the pulpit.

To conclude The Bethel Files series, Olivia sits back down for Part 2 with Chad Miller. In this powerful episode, Chad and Olivia discuss the full timeline of Bethel, the struggles 17-year-old Chad faced with his mental health at the time, and how abandonment issues continue to impact him today.

Chad shares deeply about his experience at Reclamation Ranch, founded by Jack Peterson—a significant figure in the IFB and Teen Training International (TTI) world. He doesn’t hold back as he details firsthand what life was like at the ranch and the lasting effects it had on him.

The conversation also explores Chad’s journey filming Troubled Teen Industry on HBO Max, including an emotional reunion with another Bethel survivor. He also goes further into the heartbreaking story of Bradley, one of the individuals featured in the documentary.

Don’t miss this raw and eye-opening conclusion to The Bethel Files series.

In the final episode of The Bethel Files series, Olivia sits down with Bethel Boys Academy survivor Chad Miller. Chad shares his journey of being sent to Bethel in Lucedale, Mississippi, at just 17 years old. He opens up about his experiences under the control of founder Herman Fountain, revealing the abusive and manipulative environment that defined his time at the academy.

Chad also discusses key red flags parents should be aware of when considering such facilities and reflects on where he is today. But his story doesn’t end here—Chad wasn’t only sent to Bethel. Stay tuned for part two, where he exposes life at yet another ranch.

All videos & photos in this episode were sourced from:

🔹 BK Productions

🔹 Teen Torture INC

In this powerful continuation of The Bethel Files, Olivia sits down with Bethel Boys survivor Micah, who bravely shares his harrowing journey. Micah reveals the shocking truth of how he was drugged, woke up believing he was headed to Disney, and instead found himself trapped at Bethel. He opens up about the lasting trauma, the intense PTSD he endured, and the therapy that helped him reclaim his life. Micah’s story is one of resilience, courage, and hope—showing that healing is possible even after the darkest of experiences.

In this episode, Olivia sits down with Justin, a survivor of Bethel Boys Academy, to share his story. Justin opens up about his life before Bethel, what led to him being sent there, and the abuse he endured while inside. He also sheds light on what he personally witnessed William Knott do and explains why his mom and cousin ended up moving to Bethel and working there.

Justin’s story is another powerful example of the corruption and mistreatment that took place under Herman Fountain’s leadership. His voice, like so many others, deserves to be heard.

Tune in to hear Justin’s story and help us continue exposing the truth about Bethel Boys Academy.

In this powerful episode, we kick off our new series with guest Dave Bowsher. Dave opens up about his time at Bethel Academy in Lucedale, Mississippi, shedding light on the abuse and trauma he endured. Together, Dave and Olivia discuss the school’s founder, Herman Fountain, the involvement of William Knott, and other facilities that continue to profit off pain and suffering. They also dive into the broader issue of the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI) and explore how we can take action to create stronger laws that protect children from these harmful institutions.

Dave was also featured in Teen Torture Inc. on HBO Max, so be sure to check that out for more insight into the fight against abusive programs.

Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that exposes the reality behind these so-called “reform” programs and what we can do to make a difference.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with a mother-daughter music duo who found their voices not just in song, but in freedom. Once deeply immersed in the fundamentalist world, they share their journey of breaking away—from singing rigid hymns in church to creating music that reflects their true selves. Together, they open up about the struggles of leaving behind legalism, the challenges of rebuilding their faith and identity, and how music became both their refuge and their rebellion. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about breaking free, finding harmony, and reclaiming the melody of life on their own terms.

All right to the music belong to Christiana Miller Music.

n this episode, we sit down with Paul Miller, a former member of The Millers, a well-known evangelistic singing family that traveled to over 500 IFB churches, colleges, and events across the U.S. Paul opens up about how he became involved with the IFB and IBLP, embracing the movement’s extreme standards and tightly controlled lifestyle.

We explore the growing trend of people walking away from fundamentalism—what is driving them to leave? What eye-opening experiences led Paul and others to question the system they once followed? We also did a Q&A with Paul, where he answers some of your questions!

Stay tuned for Thursday, when we sit down with his wife and daughter to hear their experiences—what it was like to be a woman in the IFB, the pressures of evangelical ministry, and their firsthand encounters with some of the most extreme aspects of the IFB world.

Tony Cuellar joins us to share his unique experience growing up in the IFB as a missionary kid with well-known parents who ran an evangelical children’s program—his father dressed as Barney the Clown and his mother as Happy the Lion. If your church ever hosted them, you’ll want to tune in.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the IFB bus ministry, exposing the division it creates between bus kids and church members. Tony also sheds light on the deeper issue: the IFB’s patriarchal system and why true change is impossible when power remains in the hands of controlling pastors.

Join us as Tony speaks candidly about his journey and the dangers of a system designed to protect itself above all else.

In this eye-opening episode of Seeing the Bigger Picture, we sit down with Pastor Trevor WayBright as he shares his powerful journey of faith. Trevor reflects on his experiences within the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) world, the challenges of breaking free from toxic systems, and how he rediscovered a more authentic faith outside of the legalistic framework. His story is a moving reminder that while religious systems may fail, hope and healing are still possible. Join us as we explore what it truly means to separate faith from harmful practices and find freedom on the other side.

In this episode, we sit down with John York, a pastor who was once deeply entrenched in the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) world. Growing up as a pastor’s kid (PK), John was raised with the weight of expectations—striving to become the “perfect Christian” under the strict rules and standards of the IFB system.

John opens up about his journey of deconstruction, the pivotal moments that led him to question everything, and the difficult decisions that ultimately cost him everything. But through the grace of God, he found redemption, restored his family, and now leads with a renewed perspective—one rooted in authenticity and the true love of Christ.

Thank you, John, for sharing your powerful story and helping bring awareness to the realities of life within the IFB. Your voice is an important part of this series, and we are so grateful for your honesty and heart.

In this episode, we sit down with Barbara, who shares her powerful story of resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges. At just 17 years old, Barbara found herself navigating teen pregnancy, enduring heartbreaking loss, and grappling with the judgment of her church community. After experiencing a devastating miscarriage at 5-6 months pregnant while at summer camp, she returned home only to face the scrutiny of the church deacons. Just one week after her father’s absence, they demanded she stand before the congregation to ask for forgiveness—but her mother refused to let that happen.

Join us as Barbara recounts these life-altering moments and shares how they shaped her journey, leading her to the person she is today. This is a story of heartbreak, courage, and defying expectations.

Today, we’re joined by Jules, a survivor with a story that is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring. Growing up in foster care, Jules faced unimaginable abuse at home and in church. Her entire childhood was shaped by pain, and at just nine years old, that abuse resulted in her becoming pregnant. At ten, she became a mother.

Instead of receiving the support and protection she desperately needed, Jules was failed by the very people who should have helped her. Her baby, just 10 months old, was taken from her—an unthinkable loss that still weighs heavily on her heart.

Through the darkest of times, Jules has shown incredible strength, courage, and faith. In this episode, she shares her journey of survival, the enduring pain of her child’s disappearance, and how she has fought to reclaim her life despite all odds.

Jules, thank you

This special episode marks the one-year anniversary of We Are One Podcast. Join Olivia and Jen as they celebrate a year of raising awareness, sharing stories of courage, and standing in solidarity with survivors. Reflecting on the powerful voices and impactful moments that have shaped the podcast, they discuss lessons learned, milestones achieved, and the community that has grown around the mission. With heartfelt gratitude, they honor the strength of every survivor and look forward to continuing the fight for truth and justice.

In today’s episode, Olivia and Jen sit down with their guest, Ashley, who shares her powerful journey of transformation and resilience. Ashley opens up about her childhood in a non-Christian household and her decision to turn her life around by accepting Christ at the age of 17.

She bravely reflects on the challenges she faced after becoming pregnant as a teenager and the treatment she received within the church community. Ashley discusses the deeply personal reasons behind her decision to share her story publicly—doing it for her kids and to inspire others.

Join us for this heartfelt and raw conversation as Ashley speaks forward with courage and love.

In this episode, we sit down with Tamra to dive into her experiences growing up in the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church and the challenges she has faced since leaving. Together, we tackle difficult topics, with a focus on the impact of spiritual abuse, the expectations placed on women, and the fear that comes with breaking free. Tamra’s openness sheds light on the emotional journey of healing and reclaiming one’s identity. Thank you, Tamra, for your courage and willingness to share your story with us.

In today’s episode, Olivia and Jen sit down with their guest, Abby, to discuss her powerful story. Abby opens up about difficult topics, including her struggles with eating disorders, sexual abuse, and other forms of trauma. Trigger warning is strongly advised.

She also sheds light on the challenges she faced while attending an IFB school, including enduring physical abuse. As the conversation unfolds, Abby reveals a shocking scandal involving a local IFB pastor.

Join us as we uncover these deeply personal and impactful stories in today’s episode. Don’t miss it!

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🍂 Olivia and Jen are diving into some wild Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) sermons and sharing their unfiltered reactions. We hope you’ll join us in the fun—and maybe even play this episode at your Thanksgiving table! It’s a great way to spark conversations with your family, share in the absurdity, and keep exposing the outrageous things they say. Let’s keep the dialogue going!

In today’s episode, Olivia and Jen sit down with Wendy to discuss her experiences growing up in the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church. Wendy shares her story of enduring and witnessing abuse within the church, shedding light on the harsh realities she faced. She speaks about the lack of understanding and support for individuals with special needs, reflecting on the challenges her two brothers—who have the mental capacity of children as adults—encountered in the IFB community. Wendy also reveals the disturbing physical abuse teachings her IFB pastor promoted regarding special needs children.

Beyond her personal story, Wendy provides valuable insights into grooming behaviors and shares warning signs parents can watch for to protect their children.

And for a shocking twist: murder?! Tune in to learn about JT and the mystery surrounding his untimely death in this eye-opening and unexpected episode.