Beyond Belief: Tales of Religious Exodus

Unlike the show's typical format of interviewing people who have left fundamentalist religions, this episode explores Dr. Mark Banschick's expertise on narcissism, child development, integrative medicine, and the intersection of psychology and spirituality.Dr. Banschick discusses the nature of high-control narcissistic systems found in various organizations, including religious groups, and how they can emotionally and psychologically impact individuals. He emphasizes the importance of personal boundaries and the dangers of enmeshment, sharing his insights on the dynamics between leaders and followers. Towards the end, Dr. Banschick shares a poem reflecting on his own experiences, offering a personal touch to the theoretical discussion.Resources mentioned:It’s Not You by Ramani Durvasula.The Wrong Way Home by Arthur J. DeikmanDr. Banschick's Website 00:19 Meet Dr. Mark Banschick: Expertise in Psychology and Spirituality03:02 Understanding Narcissistic Systems06:06 The Role of Narcissistic Leaders10:01 The Impact of Charisma and Narcissism17:21 Navigating Personal Growth and Cult Dynamics32:50 The Vulnerability of Young Adults40:03 Navigating Adulthood and Religion40:36 Respect in Therapy42:26 Parental Influence and Differentiation43:25 Understanding Family Systems Theory47:30 Cults and Differentiation49:08 Narcissism and Enmeshment54:24 The Narcissist's Suffering58:52 The Story of Echo and Narcissus01:02:25 A Reflective Poem01:11:34 Advice for Healing from Narcissistic Enmeshment

In this episode, we feature the podcast's first Buddhist interviewee. Kacy shares her unique journey from being raised in a culturally Buddhist family in Taiwan, moving to Canada, and ultimately living in a Buddhist monastery. She discusses her experiences with the religion's teachings, the challenges she faced, and the profound impact it had on her life. Kacy also explores her interest in Christianity and how her work with hospice patients influenced her spiritual outlook. She emphasizes the importance of finding personal meaning, feeling supported, and following one's intuition in navigating religious and spiritual paths.00:18 Meet Kacy : Our First Buddhist Interviewee01:11 Kacy's Early Life and Buddhist Upbringing02:15 The Shift to Traditional Buddhism04:16 Parental Influence and Buddhist Practices10:12 Teenage Years and Increased Buddhist Involvement18:33 A Year in a Buddhist Monastery24:44 Leaving the Monastery and Facing Backlash28:53 Reintegration and Questioning Buddhism32:54 Navigating Boundaries with Religion35:07 The Role of Buddhism in My Life38:08 Repentance and Its Impact43:30 Exploring Christian Teachings48:11 Advice for My Younger Self49:23 Healing from the Past53:49 Finding Meaning and Support

In the 21st episode of the Beyond Belief podcast series, Aviva shares her deeply personal journey of leaving an ultra-Orthodox Jewish upbringing. The episode delves into her upbringing in Israel, her intellectual and emotional struggles with religious beliefs, her process of dealing with deeply ingrained notions of morality and individuality, and the gradual and challenging transition out of religion. The conversation touches on her relationship with her parents, especially her father, who was a significant influence on her beliefs, and her path towards finding new meaning and identity post-religion. Aviva offers unique insights and advice for others undergoing similar experiences, emphasizing the importance of trusting one's innate goodness and internal guidance mechanisms.00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief00:54 Aviva's Religious Upbringing02:54 Parental Influence and Religious Practices06:45 Questioning and Early Signs of Doubt11:30 The Turning Point: Leaving Religion14:35 Navigating Life After Religion17:54 Finding Meaning and Healing27:33 Reflections and Advice for Others43:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Beyond Belief, Tales of Religious Exodus, we interview Nourah and Moe, a couple from Saudi Arabia who grew up in deeply religious Muslim families near Mecca. They share their personal journeys out of Islam, the cultural pressures they faced, and the transition to life in Canada, where they found freedom and a chance to rediscover themselves. The couple discusses the emotional toll of leaving their religion, facing family disownment, and the challenges of adjusting to a new life while searching for the truth. Despite the immense risks, they have rebuilt their lives and found happiness in their newfound autonomy, providing invaluable insights and advice for others on a similar path. 00:19 Meet Nourah and Moe: A Unique Couple 00:52 Growing Up in Saudi Arabia 01:42 Religious Upbringing and Family Expectations 06:13 Daily Religious Practices 12:25 Gender Roles and Restrictions 18:04 Personal Relationship with Religion 29:54 Marriage Expectations and Realities 51:48 Planning a Future Beyond Saudi Arabia 55:51 Escaping Toxic Environments 56:33 Exploring Life Beyond Saudi Arabia 58:20 Women's Struggles in Conservative Societies 01:00:44 Adapting to Life in Canada 01:05:11 Questioning Religious Practices 01:10:15 Personal Religious Journeys 01:20:05 Challenges of Leaving Religion 01:30:33 Life After Religion 01:36:42 Family Reactions and Safety Concerns 01:42:14 Final Reflections and Advice

In this episode of 'Beyond Belief, Tales of Religious Exodus,' host Shalom welcomes River, a psychotherapist, to share their deeply personal journey of leaving the evangelical missionary church of Canada. River discusses the strict religious upbringing as a pastor's child in Kitchener, Ontario, dealing with the trauma of family life, and the impact of a personal tragedy catalyzed their questioning of faith. They explore the challenges of deconstructing ingrained beliefs, the importance of new supportive relationships, and the journey towards self-compassion and self-acceptance. Through therapy and a shift towards Eastern philosophies, River illustrates the profound transformation from deeply embedded religiosity to a path of authenticity and healing. 00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief 00:19 Meet River: A Psychotherapist's Perspective 00:53 River's Religious Upbringing 01:38 Core Beliefs of the Evangelical Missionary Church 02:58 Family Dynamics and Religious Expectations 06:10 Struggles with Identity and Belonging 23:47 The Impact of Original Sin 27:53 Marriage and Gradual Deconstruction 30:07 The Reality of Parenting Alone 30:35 Meeting Wife and Religious Journey 31:33 A Life-Altering Tragedy 32:44 Deconstructing Faith and Beliefs 34:40 University Life and Changing Perspectives 37:01 Leaving Religion Completely 42:25 Parenting Challenges and Personal Growth 47:13 Healing and New Relationships 49:31 Advice for Those on a Deconstruction Journey 51:00 Reflecting on Life Choices and Parenting 01:00:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Beyond Belief: Tales of Religious Exodus,' we follow Esther's compelling journey from spending her childhood in China and Canada as a missionary child in Pentecostal and Mennonite communities, to her deconversion during the pandemic. Esther shares the challenges of navigating contrasting religious environments, her experience of missionary work, the conflicting teachings on purity, and how the political climate and her sister's coming out influenced her path to identifying as spiritual but not religious. Along her journey, she finds healing through therapy, a supportive relationship with her husband, and the courage to embrace a life beyond entrenched religious dogma. 00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief 00:19 Esther's Early Life and Religious Background 01:56 Missionary Work and Cultural Contrasts 06:18 Pentecostal and Mennonite Beliefs 09:02 Family Dynamics and Personal Struggles 14:06 Transition to Life in Canada 24:12 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth 27:43 Shared Values and Deconstructing Christianity 28:26 Pandemic Conversations and Personal Revelations 29:22 Questioning Sin and Social Justice 29:43 Political Disillusionment and Church Attendance 32:43 Struggles with Purity Culture 36:50 Leaving Religion and Finding Support 40:03 Therapy and Self-Compassion 41:57 Cultural Contexts and Hypocrisy 48:06 Final Reflections and Advice

In this episode, we explore Nick's transition from a religious upbringing in Orthodox Judaism to a secular life filled with exploration and self-discovery. The episodes cover a range of experiences and themes, from the global moves from Ottawa to Brussels, the struggle with religious education and personal faith, and the challenges faced within a strict community. Personal stories highlight their shift away from orthodoxy, struggles with societal and familial expectations, and the quest for authenticity and self-trust amid a conservative upbringing. Topics of sexual identity, mental health, and personal empowerment are deeply explored, alongside the significance of building an online community and the liberating symbolism of motorcycling. This episode delves into overcoming adversity, questioning longstanding beliefs, and the continuous journey toward personal liberation and mental resilience. Here's a photo of Nick before and after his journey. 00:21 Guest Introduction and Background 00:41 Life in Israel and Religious Education 02:37 Struggles with Religious Beliefs 09:01 Leaving Religion and Finding Community 13:21 Adjusting to a New Life 21:08 Reflections and Final Thoughts 30:09 Choosing the Right Books for Personal Growth 31:18 Blocking Out Distractions: Social Media and YouTube 32:25 The Power of Writing Down Your Thoughts 33:29 Is It Worth It? The Struggle of Leaving Religion 34:26 Questioning Religious Teachings and Practices 35:52 Navigating Life as a Bisexual in a Religious Community 39:43 Family Reactions to Leaving Religion and Being Bisexual 43:44 Advice for Those Questioning Their Faith 47:37 The Dilemma of Returning to a Religious Community 56:54 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Freedom

In this episode of 'Beyond Belief, Tales of Religious Exodus,' we explore Jayson's personal journey out of Orthodox Judaism. Growing up in a religious household in Brooklyn, Jason describes his upbringing as Yeshivish modern and details the nuances of his family dynamics and religious practices. At the age of 20, he began to question his beliefs after exposure to college science courses and noticing inconsistencies within religious texts. Jason shares the challenges of leaving a religion so deeply ingrained in identity and lifestyle, expressing the difficulty of losing a personal connection with God. Despite not fully leaving the religious community, Jayson continues to balance cultural orthodoxy with exploration and new life experiences, offering insights into navigating life with one foot in and one foot out of organized religion. The episode highlights the importance of community and shared experiences when questioning and potentially leaving one's faith. 00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief 00:42 Jayson's Orthodox Jewish Upbringing 03:12 Cultural Nuances and Family Dynamics 06:04 Questioning Faith and Seeking Answers 08:38 The Journey Through Yeshiva and College 15:44 Struggles with Cognitive Dissonance 26:08 Navigating Graduate School Challenges 27:03 Current Life and Identity 28:10 Marriage and Family Dynamics 29:16 Raising Children with Cultural Values 30:32 Finding Meaning in Rituals 33:22 Balancing Community and Personal Beliefs 36:58 Seeking Belonging and Community 40:13 Exploring Life Beyond Religion 42:24 Reflections on Intellectual and Emotional Journeys 54:25 Final Thoughts and Farewell

This episode of Beyond Belief: Tales of Religious Exodus features Alex, who shares his compelling journey of leaving Orthodox Judaism. Alex discusses his upbringing in a culturally Jewish family, his deep involvement with 12-step recovery programs, and his extensive exploration of various Orthodox sects. He describes a pivotal moment in December 2022 that led him to leave the community and begin a profound deconstruction process. Alex explores the practices and communities that helped him heal, including meditation, trauma-informed therapy, and unconventional 12-step meetings. The episode delves into the complexities of finding authenticity and meaning beyond rigid religious boundaries. 00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief 01:43 Alex's Early Life and Religious Upbringing 03:06 Struggles with Addiction and Recovery 05:58 First Encounter with Orthodox Judaism 10:59 Immersion in Orthodox Study and Community 25:35 Conflicts and Doubts about Orthodox Beliefs 29:04 Struggles with Gender and Faith 29:47 Meditation and Jewish Practices 30:46 Gender Roles and Responsibilities in Judaism 31:48 Questioning Jewish Ancestry and Practices 32:43 Critique of Religious Texts and Leaders 35:25 Journey Through Different Jewish Sects 38:40 The Final Straw and Deconstruction 42:58 Finding New Paths and Healing 53:13 Advice for Others in Deconstruction 54:13 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode of 'Beyond Belief,' the show delves into transformative personal journeys away from traditional religious beliefs. The segment features Rami, who shares his path from a culturally Islamic upbringing in Los Angeles to becoming a vocal ex-Muslim advocate. He discusses the social and familial challenges he faced, his intellectual awakening, and his efforts with his nonprofit, 'Uniting the Cults,' to promote scientific thinking over religious dogma. 00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief: Tales of Religious Exodus 00:17 Rami's Background and Initial Thoughts on Islam 03:30 The Journey to Becoming an Ex-Muslim 05:35 Philosophical and Theological Explorations 07:00 Engaging with the Ex-Muslim Community 10:28 Personal Reflections on Morality and Religion 16:20 Rami's Intellectual and Emotional Evolution 31:19 The Role of Rationality and Love in Rami's Life 36:26 Rami's Nonprofit and Advocacy Work 37:12 Uniting the Cults: A Mission Beyond Apostasy 38:10 Understanding Apostasy Laws in Islam 40:26 Personal Suffering and the Impact of Islam 43:39 Helping Ex-Muslims: A Unique Approach 45:26 Philosophy and Science: A Unified Perspective 53:03 The Role of Education in Critical Thinking 01:01:44 Gender Dynamics and Cultural Influences 01:15:06 The Influence of Jewish Thinkers 01:20:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This episode of Beyond Belief, explores the profound journey of Pesi Weinberg, a former Orthodox Jew turned therapist and comedian. Pesi discusses growing up in a strict religious environment, the internal and external conflicts he faced, and his ultimate decision to leave the faith. Through candid conversation, Pesi shares insights into the struggles, triumphs, and the ongoing process of healing that comes with such a significant life change. The discussion also delves into the importance of community, the role of therapy, and the power of self-exploration and acceptance in finding a new path to meaning and fulfillment. 00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief 00:48 Guest Background and Upbringing 02:23 Parental Influence and Rebellion 07:32 Struggles with Authority and Education 11:48 Journey into Kirov and Marriage 23:53 Disillusionment and Leaving Religion 32:26 Transition to Secular Life in Israel 35:07 Reintegrating into the Religious Community 35:22 Teaching in a Religious School Again 35:52 Struggles with the Orthodox Community 36:27 Involvement in the Ex-Orthodox Community 37:09 Ongoing Identity and Emotional Struggles 38:20 Transition to Therapy and New Career Path 42:07 Understanding and Processing Trauma 56:22 Advice for Those Leaving Orthodoxy 01:01:07 Resources for Support and Healing

In this episode of 'Beyond Belief, Tales of Religious Exodus,' host Shalom shares his journey of leaving Orthodox Judaism in an interview with Aviva. Shalom discusses growing up in a fervently religious family and the intense emotional and mental struggles that accompanied his departure from religion. He reflects on his ongoing healing process, the significance of therapy, the importance of intellectual study, and the challenging search for community. Additionally, he opens up about how family dynamics and relationships, including his divorce, have shaped his journey. Shalom now advocates for mental health and critiques fundamentalist practices, offering valuable insights and advice for others considering similar paths of personal growth and religious exodus. 01:34 Shalom's Orthodox Jewish Upbringing 05:14 Parental Influence and Cultural Divide 06:35 Navigating Religious Education 08:00 Intersecting Identities and Communities 11:46 Parental Relationships with Religion 21:51 Struggles with Religious Expectations 25:44 Leaving Religion: The Turning Point 40:46 Post-Religion Challenges and Healing 47:25 Exploring the Modern Workplace 47:56 Personal Journey: Leaving Religion 48:05 Challenges and Interventions 49:00 Resentment and Contradictions 51:58 Seeking Understanding and Acceptance 54:26 Milestones and Identity 59:02 Reflections on Childhood and Education 01:07:37 Healing and Community 01:14:53 Impact of Relationships 01:21:29 Advice for Others Leaving Religion 01:26:51 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of Beyond Belief, Chana shares their unique journey of leaving the Chabad community. Born to Ba'al Teshuva parents who embraced Chabad in their twenties, Hannah's story provides an inside perspective on growing up in a fundamentalist religious setting in Morristown, New Jersey. Chana navigates through the key milestones of losing faith at age 11, rejecting religious doctrine at 14, and leaving home at 19 to pursue higher education. Throughout the episode, themes of questioning, rebellion, and the impacts of an ultra-orthodox upbringing are explored, including the prevalence of childhood sexual trauma in religious communities. Chana 's transition from religious oppression to academia and a creative career as an artist highlights the resilience and support they found outside the confines of Chabad. This episode serves as a beacon of hope and resource for others considering their own journey out of fundamentalist religious settings. 00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief 00:20 Hannah's Unique Perspective on Chabad 01:19 Growing Up in Morristown 03:18 Losing Faith on Gimel Tamuz 06:33 Questioning and Rebellion 09:18 Leaving Chabad and Pursuing Education 10:43 Challenges and Reflections on Religious Upbringing 19:01 Transition to Academia 26:17 Finding Support and Healing 27:38 Settling in Minnesota 28:07 Neurodivergence and Family 28:36 Ba'al Teshuva Perspectives 32:19 Artistic Journey 33:29 Name and Identity 35:37 Family Dynamics and Religion 38:29 Advice for Leaving Religion 42:17 Host's Background 47:53 Concluding Thoughts

In this episode of Beyond Belief, Robert shares his riveting journey from a Reform Jewish upbringing to adopting Orthodox practices through the influence of the Ba'al Teshuva movement, and eventually transitioning to secularism. Raised in a culturally Jewish household, his exposure to Orthodoxy began when his mother remarried into a more traditional family. While an active participant in Orthodox youth groups and later attending Yeshiva in Israel, Robert never fully embraced the lifestyle. His story highlights the complexities of religious identity, influenced by personal struggles, military service, and a search for truth. Through mental health challenges and significant life events, Robert's journey reflects an insightful exploration of faith, community, and self-discovery. 00:00 Introduction to Beyond Belief 00:52 Robert's Early Religious Background 01:41 Transition to Orthodox Judaism 04:08 Navigating Religious Expectations 06:17 High School and Social Dynamics 07:56 Exploring Orthodox Youth Groups 11:45 Deciding to Study in Israel 17:50 Experiences in Yeshiva 20:28 College Years and Religious Struggles 22:06 Post-College Life and Shifting Beliefs 24:52 Marriage and Moving to Israel 26:17 Returning to America and Joining the Army 27:32 Joining the Military: A Personal Journey 29:15 Deployment in Afghanistan: A Turning Point 32:08 Questioning Faith and Beliefs 32:39 Family and Personal Struggles 39:24 Publicly Leaving Religion 46:37 Reflections and Advice 52:54 Host's Personal Story and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Beyond Belief: Tales of Religious Exodus, the host interviews Mike, who reflects on his journey growing up in an ultra-orthodox Jewish environment, leaving the religion at 17, and finding freedom and meaning as an atheist. Mike details the extreme repressive nature of his upbringing, the intellectual and emotional process of questioning and ultimately rejecting his faith, and the challenging aftermath involving family dynamics and personal growth. He shares how community support, meditation, psychedelics, and therapy played crucial roles in his healing process. The conversation also touches on Mike's experience in the Israeli military and how it provided a secular space to rebuild his identity. Mike offers advice on how to meditate and emphasizes the importance of finding community for those leaving their faith.

This episode of 'Beyond Belief, Tales of Religious Exodus' features an in-depth conversation with an Nyxie, recounting their experiences within the Calvinistic Reformed Dutch denomination. They grew up in a rigid religious environment in Ontario, transitioned to a Free Reformed Church due to split opinions on academia, and eventually left fundamentalist religion. The discussion delves into strict gender roles, music preferences, and the intense oversight by church elders. Nyxie elaborates on their familial dynamics, involving significant parental and sibling influences, emotional manipulation, and parentification. Their journey out of religion involved grappling with purity culture, body image issues, and eventual distancing from their family. Post-religion, the individual explored pagan spirituality, engaged in therapy, journaling, songwriting, and other creative outlets to process their emotions and heal from past trauma. The conversation also touches upon their partner's similar transition out of faith, and how they redefined their relationship outside traditional marital roles.

The podcast 'Beyond Belief, Tales of Religious Exodus' explores the journeys of individuals who have left fundamentalist religions. In this episode, the host interviews Simcha, who details his upbringing in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Jerusalem, his struggles within that framework, and his eventual departure from it. Simcha describes his experiences with strict religious schooling, familial pressures, and the challenges he faced in adjusting to secular life. The discussion also touches on the impact of his sexual orientation on his journey out of religion and the healing processes that have helped him, including therapy and psychedelics. The conversation provides deep insights into the complexities of leaving a fundamentalist religious life and the road to finding personal meaning and healing.

In this episode, the host interviews an anonymous guest, referred to as Katrin, who shares her experiences growing up in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in England. Katrin details the harsh realities of her environment, including crime and religious rigidity, and how she always felt like an outsider due to her neurodiversity and queerness. The discussion covers her struggles with fitting in, mental health, and her eventual departure from the community. Katrin talks about her journey through seminary, moving to Israel, and her path to seeking an education and forming new communities. She also delves into the challenges and coping mechanisms for leaving such a tight-knit religious environment, including the importance of finding supportive people and spaces. The conversation ends with reflections on the broader implications of leaving religion and the necessity for personal and community healing.

In this episode of Beyond Belief, we hear from Jennie, who shares her journey of growing up in a conservative Presbyterian environment influenced by the Christian Reformed Church. She discusses the various stages of her religious experience, including her involvement in a 'mega youth group' with multiple denominations. Jenny delves into her questioning of religious doctrines, particularly around the concept of hell, her experience with different Christian denominations, and the impact of religious teachings on her personal relationships, including an abusive marriage. Jennie's narrative also covers her healing journey post-religion, highlighting her transition into a secular form of spirituality, validation through therapy, and her current profession as a psychotherapist. The conversation emphasizes the complexities of leaving a fundamentalist religion and finding new ways to connect with spirituality and self-validation.

In this episode of Beyond Belief, Tales of Religious Exodus, host Shalom Tzvi interviews Daveed, who shares his journey from growing up in a secular Jewish family, transitioning into Orthodox Judaism, and ultimately leaving it. David discusses the social and personal challenges he faced, including criticisms from both his former religious community and his family. He highlights his exploration of other faiths, particularly Christianity, which he finds comforting for its focus on love and inclusivity. The discussion includes nuanced conversations about religious practices, communal expectations, and the internal conflicts that arise during such a transition.