EP 150 This Was Supposed To Be The Place #1: I was In a Cult

After everything I have heard, after recounting my own life and the lives of others, I can finally say it—yes, this was and is a cult. It’s hard to say, and for some, it’s hard to hear. But naming it gives me power over it. It makes healing possible. This is just the beginning. In Clemenz With a Z, I will continue unpacking my experiences in the ICOC through a new series of episodes titled This Was Supposed to Be the Place. In these, I’ll dive deep into purity culture, fear-based control, and the lasting impact on identity, faith, and trust. If you have a story to share, I’d love to hear from you. You’re not alone. Let’s keep this conversation going.

I reference Steve Hassan's BITE model in this episode.  If you would like to learn more, you can check out a couple of his books here:

https://a.co/d/5RQ3Vbl

or here:

https://a.co/d/7kFVPXs

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Clemenz With a Z. Your support means the world to me and helps keep these important conversations going.

I know that for some, this was hard to hear. It was hard to say. But the truth matters, and naming our experiences matters. Healing doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen alone.

If you are a member, were a member, or know someone who was a member of the ICOC or ICC and would like to share your story about life in and out of the church, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we can continue exploring the question, “We were in a cult?”—and perhaps find some healing along the way. You can reach me via email at clemenzwithaz@gmail.com, or send me a DM on Instagram at the Clemenz With a Z podcast page.

As always, if you enjoy the podcast, please rate and review—it helps more people find these stories. And don’t forget: I’m just a channel, I ain’t the source.

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Until next time, take care of yourself, be kind to your story, and keep growing. Peace!