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Church Disrupted
Jeff Cochran
110 episodes
4 days ago
Taking on church hurt and spiritual abuse one conversation at a time. If you’ve been hurt by the church, you’re not alone. Together, we can heal. Together, we can bring about change. It’s time to take a stand! *Church Disrupted is a production of the Spiritual Abuse Institute. Learn more about our work at: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/
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Christianity
Religion & Spirituality
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All content for Church Disrupted is the property of Jeff Cochran and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Taking on church hurt and spiritual abuse one conversation at a time. If you’ve been hurt by the church, you’re not alone. Together, we can heal. Together, we can bring about change. It’s time to take a stand! *Church Disrupted is a production of the Spiritual Abuse Institute. Learn more about our work at: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/
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Christianity
Religion & Spirituality
Episodes (20/110)
Church Disrupted
106: The Jesus Way: How Churches Stop Making Excuses And Start Protecting People

Too many churches talk about following Jesus while ignoring the way He actually lived. In this episode, Jeff explores what “The Jesus Way” really means — and how reclaiming it could stop the cycle of spiritual abuse, restore integrity, and protect the people Jesus died for. It’s time to move beyond excuses and rediscover the way of truth, humility, and accountability in the church.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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1 week ago
53 minutes

Church Disrupted
105: America’s Largest Church Reported To Use NDAs & Important Questions For The Church to Ask

The first church to hit the NDA Disclosure Database is a big one... the BIGGEST church in the United States. In this video, Jeff Cochran shares the first addition to the database and why it's important, and he shares their response, the potential impact of this report, and some important questions for Christians to chew on about its influence on the Church at large.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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2 weeks ago
38 minutes 16 seconds

Church Disrupted
104: Red Flags That Pave The Way For Church Scandals

Every church scandal leaves behind a trail of warning signs — but too often, we ignore them. In this episode, of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran does a red flag review of Rev Church after its pastor’s resignation and unpack the structural red flags that should have served as warning signs before the the scandal..

*This podcast episode originally appeared on our livestream from 9/30/25.

Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at ⁠https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/⁠.


Want to support SAI financially?https://d⁠onorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaign⁠


Join the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: ⁠https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6Z⁠


Learn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: ⁠https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledge⁠


Check out our Awareness Apparel HERE: ⁠https://church-disrupted.sellfy.store⁠


Please Subscribe and Share!


Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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3 weeks ago
1 hour 2 minutes 5 seconds

Church Disrupted
103: Mike Bickle Permanently Disqualified From Ministry — Why it Matters

Disgrace pastor Mike Bickle has been permanently disqualified from ministry. In this episode, Jeff Cochran breaks down the report’s findings, the boundaries laid down by the pastoral team, and why real accountability matters more than protecting a platform. This isn’t just about one leader — it’s about how the church handles sin, power, and the protection of God’s people.*This podcast episode originally appeared on our livestream from 9/30/25.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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1 month ago
57 minutes 29 seconds

Church Disrupted
102: How Celebrity Pastors Shut Down Questions — A Cautionary Tale from James River Church

When a member at James River Church raised questions and concerns about some troubling behaviors by the church’s pastor (John Lindell), the response wasn’t dialogue — it was a threat of arrest.

In this episode, Jeff Cochran unpacks how celebrity pastors can misuse power to silence dissent, what this reveals about toxic church culture, and why accountability matters more than protecting reputations. If you’ve ever wondered how spiritual abuse gets covered up in megachurches, this cautionary tale will open your eyes.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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1 month ago
1 hour 38 minutes 9 seconds

Church Disrupted
101: I Pressed this Pastor on NDAs in Church… His Response SHOCKED ME‼️

Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!

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1 month ago
1 hour 2 minutes 49 seconds

Church Disrupted
100: This Will SHAKE The Church And EXPOSE A Secret Tool Behind So Much Spiritual Abuse!

This episode is different. We’re pulling back the curtain on a hidden tool that’s been weaponized in the church for far too long — fueling cover-ups, silencing truth, and enabling abuse. In Episode 100, we’re launching a project that could change everything by restoring transparency and accountability where it’s been missing.If the church is ever going to heal, the silence has to end.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!00:00 Introduction01:05 Meet the Guests03:19 Personal Experiences with NDAs10:43 The NDA Public Disclosure Database16:25 The Ethical and Biblical Perspective35:00 Understanding Silencing NDAs37:07 Good vs. Bad NDAs45:45 Non-Competes in the Church53:30 Theological Implications of NDAs01:07:36 Reversing the Power Pyramid01:10:43 Accountability Conversations01:12:06 The Role of Pastors in Addressing NDAs01:18:06 The Importance of Transparency and Humility01:24:55 Sunlight as the Best Disinfectant01:36:45 Final Thoughts and EncouragementFair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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1 month ago
1 hour 44 minutes 47 seconds

Church Disrupted
099: The Unholy Ambition Destroying Churches From the Inside...

The Church is in trouble when these things start running the show: selfishness, unholy ambition, and the desire to WIN at all costs for the sake of the Kingdom. And too often today, we see these things show up in spades in the evangelical industrial complex, which leads to spiritual abuse, deep pain, and rampant moral failures.

In today’s episode of the podcast, I sit down again with Ruslan KD to talk about all things ambition, the good, bad, and the real ugly, as he releases a brand new book on this very topic.

Get the Godly Ambition Book Here: https://www.amazon.com/Godly-Ambition-Unlocking-Potential-Treasure/dp/0593602463

Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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1 month ago
1 hour 39 minutes 32 seconds

Church Disrupted
098: How To Read The Bible Without Hurting People (a conversation with Marty Solomon)

The Bible is meant to bring life, but too often it’s been twisted into a weapon that causes harm. In this conversation with Marty Solomon of the BEMA Podcast, we wrestle with how Scripture is used and misused, what real discipleship looks like, and how we can read the Bible in a way that protects people instead of abusing them.


See more of Marty's work here: ⁨https://www.martysolomon.com/

Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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2 months ago
50 minutes 41 seconds

Church Disrupted
097: An Uncomfortably Honest Conversation with a Pastor about Church Scandals & Spiritual Abuse

What happens when a pastor actually gets honest about church scandals and spiritual abuse? In this raw conversation with Pastor Derek Dunn, we talk openly about the failures of church leadership, the silence around abuse, and why pastors need to break the cycle of cover-ups.


This isn’t a safe, polished PR interview — it’s real, unfiltered, and MUCH needed.

🔗 Watch The Religion Business now (with 10% off): https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/purchase/JEFFC83

Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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2 months ago
1 hour 27 minutes 50 seconds

Church Disrupted
096: This Sermon Made My Blood Pressure Skyrocket...

Lisa Bickle Stribling stood at Hope City KC and declared a “pardon from God” for her brother, disgraced pastor Mike Bickle. In this reaction, Jeff Cochran walks through her words line by line — exposing the manipulation, gaslighting, and false teaching hidden behind “Thus saith the Lord.” Let’s walk through the sermon, expose the manipulation, and center the conversation on truth, repentance, and real accountability.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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2 months ago
1 hour 12 minutes 47 seconds

Church Disrupted
095: The Bible Was Never Meant to Be Used Like This

The Bible is meant to bring life, not be used as a weapon. In this episode of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran breaks down how some pastors twist Scripture to protect themselves, silence questions, and control people — and why that’s the opposite of Jesus’ heart. This isn’t about attacking the church. It’s about exposing harmful teaching so we can return to the truth, freedom, and grace the Gospel offers.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!00:00 Intro - The Problem of Twisting Scripture06:45 Jeremy Johnson - Misusing Matthew 24:1049:07 Shane Pruitt - False Ecclesiology59:31 Craig Groeschel - Peddling an Empty Promise of Man1:13:36 The Importance of Checking Scripture for yourselfFair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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2 months ago
1 hour 20 minutes 14 seconds

Church Disrupted
094: Debunking Common MYTHS About Tithing That Pastors Teach

WE’VE MADE TITHING AN IDOL — AND IT’S HURTING PEOPLE.For years, I taught what most churches preach about tithing: “10% minimum or you’re robbing God.” Then I actually studied the Bible. What I found changed how I viewed tithing and generosity!In this video, we discuss some toxic teachings crushing believers:⚡️ The LIE that Malachi 3 applies to modern day christians⚡️ The DANGER of “sacrifice = worship” theology⚡️ The SHOCKING truth about the widow’s mite (it’s NOT what you think)⚡️ How pastors misuse “storehouse” giving (sometimes for control)⚡️ Why the early church NEVER tithedThis isn’t about not giving, it’s about GENEROSITY WITHOUT GUILT. If you’ve ever felt manipulated by tithing demands, spiritually abused by money sermons, or wondered, “Does God really curse me over not giving 10%," this should bring you clarity and freedom.We cover:• The 3 OLD TESTAMENT TITHES churches ignore• Why "TEST ME IN THIS” (Malachi 3:10) WASN’T FOR YOU• How ROBBING GOD became weaponized• What NEW TESTAMENT GENEROSITY really looks likeSPOILER: Not one verse commands Christians to tithe. Let’s reclaim giving from manipulation and burden and restore it to joyful generosity instead.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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3 months ago
1 hour 7 minutes 17 seconds

Church Disrupted
093: Secrets Of ARC Exposed PART 2: Big Business, Troubling Patterns, & Silencing Detractors

Big money. Troubling patterns. Silenced voices.In Part 2 of our ARC investigation, we examine the current leadership, financial model, and potential legal threats behind one of America’s most influential church planting networks. What we found raises serious questions: Who’s really being protected — the people or the platform?🔍 This episode exposes:• Public scandals and systemic silence• How ARC’s financial model mirrors an MLM• Legal terms used to chill transparency• Why so many leaders keep their bylaws secretWatch PART 1 here: https://youtu.be/PoUu1k5LRo4🔗 Watch The Religion Business now (with 10% off): [https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/purchase/JEFFC83 Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!00:00 Intro02:31 Is ARC Producing Integrity or Protecting Power?03:53 Who’s Leading ARC... a05:07 Stovall Weems Speaks Out: From Insider to Whistleblower06:54 From Relationships to Revenue: How ARC Became a Machine09:53 What Happens When Growth Becomes the God?15:42 Power Without Protection: The Crisis of Accountability19:03 Meet the Inner Circle: A Network of Reproach42:21 Casey Treat, Caleb Treat, and the Cost of Silence44:16 The Scorecard So Far: Integrity, Reproach, or Just Plain Silence?45:58 When Whistleblowers Tell the Truth51:54 The Celebrity Preacher Circuit: Money, Power, and Platforms01:07:33 Tavner Smith and the Governance Loophole01:15:29 Misconduct Isn't Rare — It's Repeated01:20:49 Copy-Paste Church: The ARC Growth Formula01:21:41 Where Are the Bylaws? Demanding Governance Transparency01:26:59 ARC’s Money Funnel: Church Planting or Empire Building?01:37:59 $29 Million in Revenue, $7 Million Surplus: Where Does It Go?01:45:52 Legal Threats and Information Control: Read the Fine Print01:59:36 Call to Action: If You Love the Church, Ask the Hard QuestionsFair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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3 months ago
2 hours 4 minutes 35 seconds

Church Disrupted
092: Secrets Of ARC Exposed PART 1: Sham Governance & Slippery Accountability?

In this first episode of our two-part look into ARC (Association of Related Churches,) we expose the reality of the governance structure behind many ARC churches and the systems that allow pastors to lead without true accountability.From shell boards to insider networks, we’re breaking down the documents, the silence, and the spiritual cost of ignoring transparency and accountability.If you’ve ever been part of an ARC church or wondered how so many of them operate the same way, this episode pulls back the curtain.📌 This is Part 1. Watch Part 2 for the rest of the story and to hear from a former ARC insider.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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3 months ago
2 hours 20 minutes 8 seconds

Church Disrupted
091: Mega Church Pastor LOSES IT in a Social Media Tirade... Here's What Went Wrong

A mega church pastor just blew up online... and it backfired. Pastor Russell B. Johnson went off on The Religion Business documentary days before it dropped. But instead of silencing critics, his tirade raised even more questions about church transparency and looked completely un-Christlike. Here’s what really happened, and why it matters.Be one of the first people to watch the Religion Business docu-series and get 10% HERE: https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/purchase/JEFFC83 WATCH Nathan and Chris's response to Russell here: https://youtu.be/HkvlEVoD8VYWATCH our original interview about the docu-series here: https://youtu.be/gNlwIC7xwOAFind out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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4 months ago
1 hour 32 minutes 21 seconds

Church Disrupted
090: The Religion Business Creators Respond to Mega Church Pastor's Online Tirade

What happens when a mega church pastor publicly lashes out at a video series exposing how the church has been co-opted by power and profit? In this episode, the creators of The Religion Business, Nathan Apffel and Chris Ayoub, sit down to respond to Russell B. Johnson's social media allegations against them. Not with outrage, but to bring clarity. Nothing is off the table in this honest and direct conversation.* Russell Johnson was invited to join this conversation but declined. Here is is official statement: “I think Nathan is wrong regarding the conclusions he’s reached about tithing. but he’s been an entertaining person to go back and forth with on social media. Ruslan offered to moderate a debate, happy to do it.”Be one of the first people to watch the Religion Business docu-series and get 10% HERE: https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/purchase/JEFFC83 WATCH our original interview about the docu-series here: https://youtu.be/gNlwIC7xwOAFind out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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4 months ago
1 hour 41 minutes 55 seconds

Church Disrupted
089: I PRESSED Ruslan On NDAs, Plagiarism, & Deconstruction—Here’s What Happened

When I sat down with Ruslan KD, things got tense. We tackled NDAs, sermon plagiarism, spiritual abuse, and the messy truth behind deconstruction. We didn’t always agree, but we didn’t hold back either.This is a conversation every christian should here, especially church leaders!Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!


CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to a Controversial Church Convo01:53 Why This Conversation Happened03:19 Ruslan's weighs in09:17 Ruslan's Reaction to Dr. Michael Brown16:46 Too Charitable OR Too Critical?24:54 Sin is Sin?31:34 NDAs in Churches44:46 Power Dynamics47:27 Legal and Ethical Questions50:47 Real Church NDAs57:23 Non-Disparagement vs. Defamation01:06:17 A Better Approach to NDAs01:11:13 Legal Loopholes and NDAs in Churches01:16:19 SAI's Perspective01:20:58 Deconstruction - Good or Bad?01:27:13 Reconstruction and Faith Journeys01:37:58 Responding to Deconstruction01:43:48 Church Trends01:50:47 Celebrity Conversions and Faith Journeys01:53:33 Reasons for Deconstruction?01:56:17 Extreme Swings02:02:19 To the hurting02:15:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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4 months ago
2 hours 28 minutes 41 seconds

Church Disrupted
088: John Bevere’s Bait Of Satan: Biblical Teaching Or Harmful Doctrine!?

John Bevere’s Bait of Satan teaching has influenced churches for decades, but is it really biblical? In this episode of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran responds to Bevere’s comments about offense on Lecrae’s podcast and unpack why this approach can be harmful, especially when used to dismiss spiritual abuse. If you've ever been told you're “just offended,” this one's worth your time.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignJoin the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.store

Please Subscribe and Share!00:00 John Bevere's Controversial Teachings05:14 Analyzing Matthew 24: A false foundation?12:37 Examining Context & Original Language20:42 Understanding Offense in Scripture31:43 Translation Notes34:14 Checking the Greek39:37 Misinterpretation and Spiritual Abuse48:32 John Bevere's Teachings and Their Impact01:01:29 Concluding Thoughts on Offense and SinFair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

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4 months ago
1 hour 6 minutes 36 seconds

Church Disrupted
087: Did This Texas Mega Church Sermon Silence Victims of Spiritual Abuse?

In this episode of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran critically review a Mother’s Day sermon from Lake Pointe Church that many say silenced victims of spiritual abuse. We unpack the harmful messages that minimize real pain and why this matters for church accountability and healing. If you care about protecting survivors and calling out spiritual abuse, this conversation is a must-watch.Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/.Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignLearn more about the Safe Church Pledge Here: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/safechurchpledgeCheck out our Awareness Apparel HERE: https://church-disrupted.sellfy.storePlease Subscribe and Share!Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. All clips used are protected by the Fair Use Doctrine within Title 17 of the United States Code. This doctrine safeguards the use of copyrighted material for transformative purposes, such as commentary, criticism, review and news reporting. Under Title 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any person who makes a false, bad faith, or misleading copyright claim or uses a copyright takedown to infringe on free speech, criticism, or commentary can be held liable for damages to the content creator.Hosseinzadeh v. Klein, 276 F.Supp.3d 34 (S.D.N.Y. 2017); Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc., 139 F. Supp. 3d 1094 (C.D. Cal. 2015).

Show more...
5 months ago
2 hours 21 seconds

Church Disrupted
Taking on church hurt and spiritual abuse one conversation at a time. If you’ve been hurt by the church, you’re not alone. Together, we can heal. Together, we can bring about change. It’s time to take a stand! *Church Disrupted is a production of the Spiritual Abuse Institute. Learn more about our work at: https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/