In today's Courage Conversation episode, Ashley Easter dives into a thought-provoking discussion about healing and worthiness. We will explore the powerful topic of how healing is not determined by whether someone deserves it or not, but rather by their active participation in the journey.

She also shares about the upcoming 30 Days of Courage event happening for FREE inside the Courage 365 facebook group!

Relevant Links: 

- Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1️⃣ Active participation is key to healing. Waiting for others to provide healing won't lead to the desired results. We must actively engage with the healing resources available to us and apply the tools and advice shared.

2️⃣ It's time to reclaim control and believe in our worthiness. We no longer have to be controlled by our past or others' opinions. We deserve to go out and get what we want, even if we don't feel deserving right now. It's time to embark on our healing journey with courage!

3️⃣ Join us for the 30 Days of Courage, a FREE program during the month of October with valuable panel discussions, self-care challenges, support groups, prizes and so much more! It’s all happening inside the Courage 365 Facebook group. Join today! www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

[00:01:32] Empowering survivors through local partnerships and healing.

[00:04:45] No choice, no power. Abuse not fault. Transition from victim to survivor. Freedom brings choice and autonomy.

[00:08:05] Healing requires active participation, not waiting for others.

[00:12:22] Active choice, work, and tools for healing.

[00:14:34] Find tools that work for you.

[00:19:38] "Connect and build relationships in survivor community"

[00:22:01] Some deserve what they get, others don't.

[00:25:06] Invest in yourself, transform with challenges, rewards, and discussion.

[00:33:58] Engage with us for free self-care challenges.

[00:35:00] Join Courage 365 group, a life-changing 30-day journey.

In today's Courage Conversation episode, Branon opens up about his journey of childhood abuse and trauma, discussing the discrimination boys face surrounding emotions and vulnerability, the importance of therapy in addressing buried pain, and the challenges of communicating about abuse with loved ones, especially children.

Join us as we dive deep into the conversation about breaking cycles, rebuilding neural pathways, and finding the courage to face the shadows. It's a profound and vulnerable discussion that will leave you inspired to start your own healing journey. 

Relevant Links: 

-  Branon’s Twitter: @ConfessionsOfWL

- Branon’s Facebook: @branondempsey

- Branon’s Instagram: @facingtheshadows

- YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCYOAedpego6FVdDMh-P_2hg 

- Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/confessions-of-a-worship-leader/id1609639138 

- Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1️⃣ Breaking the Silence: Branon highlights the pervasive societal norms that prevent boys and men from expressing their emotions and seeking help. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability by talking about pain and trauma, as it is crucial for healing and breaking the cycle of abuse.

2️⃣ The Healing Power of Therapy: Branon shares how therapy played a pivotal role in his healing journey. Therapy helped him confront and address the buried trauma, rebuild neural pathways, and regain his power. He strongly advocates for therapy as an essential tool for survivors to heal and transform their lives.

3️⃣ Choosing Courage: Branon inspires us all to step out of our comfort zones and embrace vulnerability. He reminds us that healing is a long-term journey, but with courage, we can overcome and transform our pain into something beautiful. Branon's story is a testament to the power of choosing courage and refusing to let trauma define us.

[00:02:48] Traumatic childhood abuse led to personal transformation.

[00:10:48] Importance of therapy in processing trauma. Safeguarding children.

[00:17:53] Book "Returning Home" explores breaking cycles, trauma, and healing.

[00:23:26] Men taught not to show emotion, causing trauma.

[00:27:50] Surviving abuse, finding purpose, choosing to heal.

[00:32:45] Thank you, appreciate your courage, follow us.

In today's Courage Conversation episode, we speak to Tawni Browning, an “escape artist” from the A&E TV Show Escaping Polygamy and advocate who has dedicated her life to helping individuals recover and heal from cults.

Tawni helps women flee polygamous cults and even investigated and helped to shut down one of the world's largest and most violent sk!nhead organizations.

We explore the dynamics within polygamous groups, and r@cist organizations learning what it takes to help someone exit a cult-like environment.

Relevant Links: 

- Tawni’s Husband’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/MatsonBrowning

- Tawni’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008069775342

- Tawni’s Website: https://www.mattandtawni.com/

- Matt and Tawni’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Hate-Next-Door-Undercover-Supremacy/dp/1728276624/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20TYN6IHX4CU7&keywords=tawni+browning+book&qid=1693258385&sprefix=tawni+browning+book%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1 

- Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1. The power dynamics and extreme @buse within polygamous groups is not dissimilar to the v!olent sk!nhead groups. This episode highlights the similarities between extremist environments.

2. Continuously Loving and Supporting. Tawni shared a powerful story of a despised individual in the FLDS community, Rachel, who is still sought out for help because she shows love. This anecdote serves as a reminder that love and support are essential, and even when we don’t think we are getting through others will be drawn to our loving response.

3. Throughout our conversation, Tawni discusses the importance of taking action when we have access to information. By sharing our unique perspectives and combining our expertise, we can contribute to making a positive difference in the world. Let's not be bystanders in toxic situations, but active participants in creating a better future for all.

   
   

[00:00:00] Courage Conversation Show welcomes escape artist Tawni Browning.

[00:06:41] Parallels between cult rescue and combating extremism.

[00:10:28] People with talent can help others escape toxic groups, investigating and finding good in the world.

[00:14:20] Polygamous groups, F L D S and Kingston Group, have top male leaders who control everything, leading to extreme abuse, including sexual abuse.

[00:18:48] Escaping Polygamy starts with questioning, empowering individuals.

[00:20:22] Overcoming adversity and supporting others' success.

[00:22:48] Support their journey, no real normal.

[00:25:53] Different advocates help at different stages.

[00:31:51] Book available, dropping July 4th, importance of work, helping loved ones, PTSD, not wanting anyone to feel alone.

[00:33:32] Follow Courage 365: social media, resources, text messages.

In today's Courage Conversation episode, Pastor Brian Metzger talks about the desperate need for reparations in the church on behalf of abuse survivors. He talks about why it must go beyond mere thoughts and prayers and become a tangible form of repentance by taking responsibility for abuse and coverups in the church. From financial support for counseling to creating saf-ER spaces, letting broken religious structures collapse instead of upholding dangerous people and systems, and of course, the vital importance of survivors defining what reparations should look like for them.

Relevant Links: 

- Brian’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/aPastorsStory 

- Brian’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brianmpei

- Brian’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmrnc63/ 

- https://apastorsstory.wordpress.com/ 

- Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1. Reparations in the church go beyond thoughts and prayers and are seen as tangible ways to acknowledge wrongdoing and take responsibility for abuse. This can include financial support for counseling and therapy expenses, as well as providing safER spaces for reflection and healing.
2. The church needs to actively listen to survivors of abuse and let them define what reparations should look like, rather than assuming what they might want or need. It is important to take meaningful action and not simply offer empty words or prayers.
3. There is a need for pastors and church leaders to acknowledge and address issues within the church, even if it means things falling apart. This involves dismantling abusive systems, creating safer spaces, and being honest about the harm done to people. It is important to prioritize the well-being and support of survivors over protecting perpetrators or the reputation of the institution.

[00:02:22] The Church should support and listen to survivors.

[00:06:36] We avoid uncomfortable conversations due to fear.

[00:15:02] Reparations: Tangible response beyond thoughts and prayers.

[00:18:46] "Survivor voices in reparations. Practical and refreshing."

[00:24:11] Apologies for wrongs, acknowledging pain and seeking change.

[00:29:02] "Empowering daily text messages for survivors"

In today's Courage Conversation episode, prepare yourself for an eye-opening discussion as Dominique Benninger explores the spectrum of cult-like behavior, the use of manipulative techniques, and the long-lasting impact on survivors. Get ready to challenge your understanding of the term "cult" and gain valuable insights into the world of high-control groups. Learn what brain hacking is, how cults do it, and how to protect yourself.

Relevant Links: 

- Dom’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/BAccountabilty

- Dom’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dominique.benninger

- https://churchtrauma.org/

- https://baptistaccountability.org/

- Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1. The spectrum of cult-like behavior: The episode highlights that cult-like behavior can exist on a spectrum, ranging from extreme cults to less damaging but still harmful groups. It is important to recognize the signs of control and manipulation, even in seemingly benign institutions or relationships.
2. The power of manipulation techniques: The episode explores how various techniques rooted in social psychology, such as love bombing and reciprocity, can be used by cults and other entities to manipulate and control individuals. Understanding these techniques can help individuals recognize and navigate potentially harmful situations.
3. The importance of personal autonomy and self-awareness: The episode emphasizes the need for individuals to be aware of their own vulnerabilities and make informed decisions about what is harmful or not. It encourages listeners to prioritize personal autonomy, self-growth, and healthy alternatives to avoid falling into cult-like situations.

[00:02:11] Childhood abuse, spiritual exploration, controlling church, college years, accidental meeting with Megan.

[00:04:26] Couple joins church group, experiences cult-like behavior.

[00:16:56] 25 years since cult; therapy valuable in understanding vulnerability and control.

[00:20:59] Churches may unknowingly use harmful cult tactics.

[00:23:19] Interview on healthy parenting techniques and cults.

[00:28:38] Techniques of manipulation used in various areas.

[00:31:47] NLP: Powerful tool for success or manipulation.

[00:38:32] Follow Courage 365 on social media. Free resources available. Subscribe to text message list.

In today's Courage Conversation episode, Wendi Renay takes us on a powerful journey of self-discovery, overcoming grief, and finding true self-worth. Wendi shares their personal experience of realizing that her life was a lie and the emotional toll it took on her. She delves into the importance of focusing on oneself and questioning beliefs. Wendi also discusses the concept of fear, obligation, and guilt tied to narcissistic abuse, cults, and high-control religion.

Relevant Links: 

- Wendi’s Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WendiRenay/ 

- Wendi’s Instagram: www.Instagram.com/wendirenay 

- Wendi’s TikTok: www.TikTok.com/@wendirenay 

- Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1. Question your beliefs and analyze your thoughts: Wendi shares her journey of questioning her own beliefs and learning to critically analyze her thoughts and decisions. This self-reflection allowed her to break free from the limitations of indoctrination and discover her true self.
2. Letting go of fear, obligation, and guilt: High control religions often thrive on fear, obligation, and guilt to keep their members in line. Wendi delves into the concept of fear, obligation, and guilt and how it relates to narcissistic abuse and manipulation within religious communities. Learning to let go of these destructive emotions is crucial for personal growth.
3. The power of personal growth and connection: Wendi emphasizes the importance of personal growth and understanding others' perspectives. By hearing stories and experiences from a diverse range of individuals, we can broaden our horizons and deepen our empathy. She shares her own journey of seeking wisdom and guidance from different sources to become a better person every day

[00:00:00] Courage Conversation Show welcomes ex-Jehovah's Witness survivor.

[00:04:13] Shunning after leaving Jehovah's Witnesses, CSA survivor.

[00:08:58] Discovery, doubt, and finding peace outside religion.

[00:12:52] Summary: Indoctrination is fear-based mind control, stifling critical thinking and intuition. High control religion thrives on emotional control through fear, obligation, and guilt.

[00:15:48] Fear, obligation, guilt tied to narcissistic abuse

[00:20:37] Restrictions on women in Jehovah's Witnesses organization.

[00:23:50] Restrictions on women preaching, promoting toxic gender roles.

[00:29:13] High control groups restrict relationships and growth.

[00:31:21] Grief, self-worth, and personal growth journey.

[00:37:32] Mom of two learning and growing daily.

[00:42:05] Powerful message. Follow Wendi's social media. Check out Courage 365 and resources. Join the text message list for daily encouragement.

In today's Courage Conversation episode, we delve into an important yet often unexplored topic: safe parenting and creating just environments for our children.

Our guest, Cindy Wang Brandt, is an incredible author and speaker who specializes in helping parents heal from religious trauma and navigate the complexities of raising children in safe and inclusive spaces. Together, we will dive deep into the world of conscious parenting and discuss the urgent need to shift our perspective towards the well-being of our children.

Join us as we uncover the harmful impact of extreme parenting approaches, the dangers of the original sin doctrine, and the power dynamics that affect our relationships with our children. Together, let's learn how to honor our children's needs while empowering ourselves as parents.

Get ready for a transformational conversation that will inspire you to create a more just and loving world for the future generations.

Relevant Links: 

- Cindy Wang Brandt's Website: https://cindywangbrandt.com/ 

- Cindy Wang Brandt’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cindywangbrandt

- Cindy on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cindywangbrandt

- Cindy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingforward/ 

- Cindy’s Book: https://cindywangbrandt.com/parenting-forward/ 

- Courage 265 FREE Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Repair: Good parenting is about learning from our mistakes and taking responsibility for our actions. It's essential for parents to feel remorse and apologize when necessary. However, we must not get stuck in a constant cycle of apologizing and making it all about ourselves. Instead, we should acknowledge our mistakes, learn from them, and strive to do better.
2. Delighting in Our Children: It's transformative and healthy to develop the capacity to delight in our kids. By truly listening and seeing them for who they are, we can create a strong bond and deeper connection. Even during challenging moments, it's important to find the whimsy and hilarity in parenting and infuse it with delight.
3. Advocating for Children: Throughout history, children have often been treated with disrespect and denied dignity. We need to stand up against harmful practices and strive for a more compassionate society that values and respects our children. Let's work together to create public spaces where children are included and their needs are considered.

[00:00:02] Courage Conversations welcomes Cindy Wang Brandt.

[00:03:16] Parenting and faith deconstruction intersect, raising awareness.

[00:07:29] Children historically lacked respect and dignity. Infanticide and child labor were common. Harsh disciplinary measures continue today, indicating a need for change. The language used implies dominance over children. Domestic violence often correlates with harsh treatment of children. Authoritarian family structures perpetuate violence and harm.

[00:12:02] Changing philosophy and viewing children collaboratively.

[00:18:22] Balanced approach to parenting; gratitude vs. responsibility.

[00:20:15] Original sin doctrine damages children's development. Parenting should prioritize meeting their needs.

[00:23:53] Parenting: Listening, learning, participating, meeting needs.

[00:28:09] Good parenting is about repair, learning, and growth.

[00:31:12] Delighting in kids transforms and brings joy.

[00:37:06] Cindy Wang Brandt's website

Shirley Fessel is an advocate for women who have experienced religious-domestic v!olence. As a former minister's wife, she understands the challenges faced by women in these situations and the lack of support from institutional churches.

As a former minister's wife, she found herself trapped in a situation where the institutional church and the people in it failed to provide the support she needed. Determined to reclaim herself and protect her children from the horrors of @buse, Shirley decided to create a workbook that would help women in similar situations navigate the confusing tactics used against them, such as manipulation, gaslighting, and exploitation of faith concepts.

Through her own experiences, she learned the importance of leaving @buse without guilt, listening to her intuition, and not allowing others to minimize her connection to God. Shirley's work continues to support and empower women to overcome the attacks they face and honor their intuition. 

This episode will be useful to anyone, but especially those who still identify as Christian and wish to understand where God is in their journey.

Relevant Links: 

- Shirley Fessel’s Book, Redemption from Biblical Battering, for Christian women: https://redemptionbb.com/book/ 

- Shirley Fessel’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fessup44/

- Grant, (must Read the book to be considered): https://redemptionbb.com/grant/ 

- Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

3 key takeaways for this episode

1. Religious Abuse can be a complex and damaging form of domestic v!olence, often justifying @busive behaviors through religious beliefs and scripture. It is crucial for survivors to recognize the manipulation and seek support to break free from these toxic environments.
2. Women in abusive religious settings may face unique challenges in seeking help, as church authorities and religious beliefs may discourage them from seeking professional assistance. It is important for survivors to know that they have the right to seek professional help and should not be limited to only biblical counseling.
3. The guest, Shirley Fessel, offers a practical resource in the form of her self-help workbook, "Redemption from Biblical B@ttering," which explores the seven levels of confusion and provides tools for women in religious domestic v!olence situations. This workbook can help survivors navigate the complexity of religious abuse and empower them to create a new life after leaving an abusive relationship.

[00:02:58] Workbook empowers women escaping religious abuse.

[00:09:38] Domestic abuse tied to religious beliefs and manipulation.

[00:12:45] Religious beliefs compound fear and control, manipulating trust.

[00:16:24] Levels of confusion, abused women, finding strength, leaving abusive relationships.

[00:23:49] Churches funding non-affiliated organizations for control?

[00:28:41] Detachment, charting, and redefining for abuse recovery.

[00:33:44] "Courage to be yourself, despite adversity."

[00:36:47] Thank you for tuning in. Check out Shirley Fessel's book and social media. Follow Courage 365 on social media. Need help? Visit courage365.org. Sign up for inspirational text messages.

Andrew Pledger is a survivor of a high control religious environment. Raised in the IFB (Independent Fundamental Baptist) church, he experienced trauma and internalized homophobia due to the system's teachings that being queer was demonic and needed to be prayed away. Andrew recognizes the harm caused by such religious environments, where individuals are blamed and shamed for any issues they face, while the system itself remains untouchable. He highlights the psychological and emotional abuse faced by queer individuals who may undergo conversion therapy or be subjected to self-hatred. Understanding the process of indoctrination, Andrew acknowledges the courage it takes to question and leave these systems. He calls for the dismantling of abusive systems, encouraging others to leave and reclaim their sense of self. Andrew emphasizes the importance of seeking support when leaving such environments in order to protect one's mental health and successfully embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery.

Relevant Links: 

• Andrew Pledger’s Resources: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links/
• Andrew Pledger’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4ndrewpledger/
• Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311
• Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

3 key takeaways for this episode

1. The importance of self-discovery and defining one's own identity: The guest, Andrew Pledger, shares his journey of questioning and ultimately rejecting the harmful teachings of his religious community. He emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and becoming independent, as well as the role of meeting and interacting with diverse individuals in breaking down stereotypes.
2. The devastating effects of leaving an abusive religious environment: Leaving a high control religious environment can result in a sense of confusion, loss of identity, and a lack of community and support. It takes courage and resources to recognize and question the indoctrination within these systems, but leaving is seen as the most powerful action to take in order to protect one's mental health.
3. The ongoing struggle and discrimination faced by queer individuals: Andrew discusses the internalized homophobia and religious trauma he experienced and the ongoing micro-aggressions and discrimination faced by queer individuals, including social rejection, aggressiveness, and hatefulness. The episode highlights the need for love and acceptance within families and the negative effects of conversion therapy on one's sense of self and spirituality.

00:00:00 "Courage conversation show with host Ashley Easter"

00:03:49 Leaving an oppressive religious environment requires planning and healing.

00:11:33 Undoing internalized homophobia is a slow, self-discovery process.

00:21:52 Struggling with trust, trauma responses, and homophobia.

00:26:56 Queer people face family rejection, trauma, isolation.

00:30:14 Find love, acceptance, and healing, be courageous.

00:34:23 Powerful podcast and resources for all journeys.

00:35:44 Connect with us on social media, website, and text messages for support.

On this episode of Courage Conversations, we hear from Larry Weathers, CEO of Weather's Agency, who shares his experience growing up in a cult and how it led to navigating similar attitudes in corporate America. Larry talks about leaving the church and starting his own agency to create a safe space for women. He also discusses his struggles with Impostor Syndrome and how surrounding himself with a supportive community allowed him to find freedom and success. The conversation dives into the importance of self-care and how patriarchal ideology can make it difficult for men to prioritize self-care. Additionally, we hear from Ashley Easter, founder and executive director of Courage 365, who provides free resources for survivors of abuse and little-known stories of people leaving cults. Larry shares how he deconstructed everything he was taught about Christianity and how this led him to realize who God truly is. The episode concludes with a discussion on family relationships and the importance of breaking away from harmful behaviors.

Relevant Links: 

• Weather's Agency Website: www.weathers.agency
• Larry Weather’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/larryweatherslive
• Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311
• Courage 365 Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/courage365
• Free Survivor Resources: www.Courage365.org/free

3 key takeaways for this episode

1. Overcoming religious or cultic trauma involves a process of deconstructing and questioning everything one has been taught, and finding freedom by connecting with one's own understanding of who God truly is.
2. Men need to recognize and speak up against the oppression of women, and value the unique creative abilities that women bring to the table.
3. Reunification with family members may not always be possible or safe, and it's important to prioritize personal growth and self-care while surrounded by a supportive community that affirms one's identity.

[00:03:29] "Escaping Cult-Like Religion Led to Personal Transformation"

[00:08:10] "Lessons Learned: Tipping Point in Toxic Masculinity"

[00:10:41] "The Creative Power and Influence of Women"

[00:13:57] "Breaking Free from Impostor Syndrome"

[00:19:10] Suppressing Creativity and Freedom in Cults

[00:22:19] "Choose Your Future: The Truth About Family"

[00:25:42] "Free Yourself: Building a Personal Relationship with God"

[00:30:52] "Men's Safe Spaces: Inspiring Change in Society"

[00:32:29] "Courage Ages: The Power of Growing Bravery"

[00:34:41] "Connect with Larry Weathers Agency for Diversity Training"

*This episode is adapted from the 30 Days of Courage LIVE event in October 2022.*

Picture this: Your partner just disclosed one of the most tragic things you could imagine. They finally worked up the courage to tell you that in their past, they have experienced A B U S E.

You love them and want to support them 100%, but you have no idea how to respond.

Maybe it's even been a couple of years since the disclosure, and they have triggers, and fears, and sometimes behave in ways you don't quite understand.

During this live panel discussion, learn from partners who have been where you are. Hear the tips and tools they have picked up along the way to strengthen their relationship and support the one they love the most.

Panelists: Will Easter, Linda Pittman, Matt Forsythe, Jeff Garcia

FREE Resources Available at: www.Courage365.org

For daily empowerment text messages, text the word: Courage
To: (917) 809-7311

*This episode is adapted from the 30 Days of Courage LIVE event in October 2022.*

From the Discovery+ Documentary, "Hillsong: A Megachurch Exposed," comes survivor and activist Noemi Uribe.

Scandals, deception, celebrity, and lives damaged on a global scale. In this interview with Noemi, we will talk about the dark underbelly of one of the world's more popular churches, Hillsong.

This isn't just a news story; for Noemi, it's personal. Hear her story and learn what saved her life.

FREE Resources Available at: www.Courage365.org

For daily empowerment text messages, text the word: Courage
To: (917) 809-7311

This episode is adapted from the 30 Days of Courage LIVE event in October 2022.

Forensic psychologists are experts in psychology who work in the legal field. They offer psychotherapy services and investigate reports of child mistreatment and conduct visitation risk assessments. Think Dr. Tara Lewis from the Criminal Minds TV show.

Usually, forensic psychologists are asking the questions, but in this interview, YOU get to do the asking with Dr. Debra Warner.

Dr. Warner specializes in male survivors and is renowned in her field and widely known for her TEDx Talk.

FREE Resources Available at: www.Courage365.org

For daily empowerment text messages, text the word: Courage
To: (917) 809-7311

This episode is adapted from the 30 Days of Courage LIVE event in October 2022.

Chrissy Stroop is the co-editor (with Lauren O'Neal) of "Empty the Pews: Stories of Leaving the Church," which highlights the stories of survivors leaving toxic religious environments.

Chrissy has leveraged the power of story by being published in national magazines, news outlets, and peer-reviewed journals, but she is perhaps most known in the survivor community for her viral social media hashtags that highlight survivor stories and gain the attention of the press and media.

As a transgender woman, Chrissy's talk will discuss the power of story. How stories can help us heal, inspire us to change, and move our communities towards action.

FREE Resources Available at: www.Courage365.org

For daily empowerment text messages, text the word: Courage
To: (917) 809-7311

This episode is adapted from the 30 Days of Courage LIVE event in October 2022.

Ashley Easter shares her story of leaving the religious "Quiverful" cult she grew up in.

There are an estimated 5,000+ cults in the US alone, and experts suggest that anyone can be vulnerable to a cult if subjected to the right conditions.

In this talk, Ashley will share the characteristics of a cult and how they can show up in any sector of society.

She will also give practical steps on how to spot cults and what to do if you think you or a loved one are in one.

Ashley Easter is a survivor advocate, Intuition Coach, and founder of Courage 365.

FREE Resources Available at: www.Courage365.org

For daily empowerment text messages, text the word: Courage

To: (917) 809-7311

This episode is adapted from the 30 Days of Courage LIVE event in October 2022.

Sarah Scott is an actress and intimacy coordinator who has worked on some of Hollywood's biggest movies, ensuring actors are safe and comfortable during spicy scenes.

Sarah’s work is to create spaces where all people can feel safe, heard, and respected. As abuse survivors, sometimes it can be difficult to know how to create comfortable boundaries for our intimate relationships.

Sarah's talk will discuss what an intimacy coordinator does and give you tools to create your own healthy boundaries for yourself.

FREE Resources Available at: www.Courage365.org

For daily empowerment text messages, text the word: Courage
To: (917) 809-7311

Exercise is one of the most common triggers for abuse survivors.  

The reason this happens is that exercise has some of the same effects as traumatic experiences on your body: it increases your heart rate and blood pressure, which can make you feel like you're in danger even when you are not. 

 But physical movement and exercise are important for abuse survivors because it can help us heal from trauma.  

In this last episode of Courage Conversations for season 3, Survivor, Fitness and Nutrition Coach Liria Forsythe shares how to alleviate these triggers and take control of your fitness journey.  

This Thursday, Sept 22nd at 7pm ET streaming on Facebook, Youtube, and Twitter.  

RSVP HERE: https://fb.me/e/3wIOYr623 

Follow Liria: 

 https://www.instagram.com/fuelfitness_coach/ https://www.facebook.com/fuelfitnesscoach  

https://calendly.com/fuelfitnesscoach 

Use coupon code: COURAGE30 for $30 off your CalmiGo order! https://calmigo.com/pages/meet-the-exhaler... Sign up for our FREE morning empowerment text messages. By survivors, for survivors. Just text the word: courage To: (917) 809-7311 Join Courage Clubs: https://www.courage365.org/clubsCourage365 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Courage365.org

This week on Courage Conversations, we talk to Brian Cardoza about discrimination against male survivors.   

 Tune into this episode to learn the unique challenges male survivors have and what we can do to support them!   

 Follow Brian: https://www.facebook.com/brian.cardoza.9 https://www.instagram.com/cardozabrian/ https://www.3in1cookiesandcoffee.com/

 Use coupon code: COURAGE30 for $30 off your CalmiGo order! https://calmigo.com/pages/meet-the-exhaler...   

 Sign up for our FREE morning empowerment text messages. By survivors, for survivors. Just text the word: courage To: (917) 809-7311   

 Join Courage Clubs: https://www.courage365.org/clubsCourage    

 365 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Courage365.org

This week on Courage Conversations, we talk to Andrew Pledger about religious trauma, specifically for those within the LGBTQ+ community. 

 Tune into this episode to learn about the definition of religious trauma and how to move forward toward healing and empowerment.  

Use coupon code: COURAGE30 for $30 off your CalmiGo order! https://calmigo.com/pages/meet-the-exhaler...  

Sign up for our FREE morning empowerment text messages. By survivors, for survivors. Just text the word: courage To: (917) 809-7311  

Join Courage Clubs:https://www.courage365.org/clubs 

Courage 365 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Courage365.org

 Follow Andrew:https://www.liinks.co/4ndrewpledger 

Check out his podcast: https://4ndrewpledger.mypixieset.com/podcast/

This week on Courage Conversations, our Founder and Executive Director, Ashley Easter, and Courage 365 Safety Advisor Maureen Garcia talk about what the heck is going on with the most recent Matt Chandler scandal.   

Tune into this episode to learn about Chandler and his Church's strange history and delve into patterns of concern before this "inappropriate" texting controversy that led to his leave of absence. 

 Eric Skwarczynski's talk on the Matt Chandler "apology": https://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/videos/761756618435180  

Transcript of Lauren Chandler talking about meeting Matt:  https://www.familylife.com/.../fami.../gods-loving-kindness/   

Chandler's Sheep with Rabies Rant: https://soundcloud.com/watchkeep/matt-chandler-narcissisticWashington Post Article: https://www.washingtonpost.com/.../pastor-matt-chandler.../ 

Thank you, Watchkeep Maureen Farrell-Garcia Preacher Boys  

Use coupon code: COURAGE30 for $30 off your CalmiGo order! https://calmigo.com/pages/meet-the-exhaler...  

Sign up for our FREE morning empowerment text messages. By survivors, for survivors. Just text the word: courage To: (917) 809-7311  

Join Courage Clubs:https://www.courage365.org/clubs 

Courage 365 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Courage365.org