Discover
Preacher Boys Podcast

Preacher Boys Podcast
Author: Eric Skwarczynski
Subscribed: 445Played: 32,805Subscribe
Share
© Eric Skwarczynski
Description
An ex-fundamentalist sheds light on the dark side of the church… from the pulpit to the pews.
Hosted by advocate Eric Skwarczynski, Preacher Boys investigates abuse, cover-ups, and manipulation within high-control religious environments. Through interviews with survivors, experts, and advocates, the show exposes the hidden systems that enable harm—and amplifies the voices of those breaking free.
Past guests include Chris Hansen (To Catch a Predator), Bethany Joy Lenz (One Tree Hill), cult expert Dr. Steven Hassan, Sarah Edmondson and Anthony Ames from HBO’s The Vow, and more..
With millions of downloads and a deeply engaged survivor community, Preacher Boys dives into the stories others are too afraid to tell—and invites listeners on a journey of truth, justice, and healing.
Hosted by advocate Eric Skwarczynski, Preacher Boys investigates abuse, cover-ups, and manipulation within high-control religious environments. Through interviews with survivors, experts, and advocates, the show exposes the hidden systems that enable harm—and amplifies the voices of those breaking free.
Past guests include Chris Hansen (To Catch a Predator), Bethany Joy Lenz (One Tree Hill), cult expert Dr. Steven Hassan, Sarah Edmondson and Anthony Ames from HBO’s The Vow, and more..
With millions of downloads and a deeply engaged survivor community, Preacher Boys dives into the stories others are too afraid to tell—and invites listeners on a journey of truth, justice, and healing.
392 Episodes
Reverse
Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️🔥 What if the fear of hell has been holding you back from experiencing true spirituality rooted in love?In this thought-provoking interview, Brian Recker (former evangelical pastor and author of Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love) shares his journey from Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) upbringing to progressive Christianity. Along the way, he unpacks how doctrines of eternal punishment warp faith, relationships, and even our definition of love.We explore:– Growing up under the constant fear of hell: altar calls, camp gimmicks, and conversion pressure.– How doctrines of punishment fuel church growth, finances, and community control.– Why questioning hell can cost pastors their jobs and reputations.– Alternate views like annihilationism & universalism—and how they reshape faith.– How fear-centered theology distorts family bonds, community, and self-worth.– Brian’s personal stories of divorce, deconstruction, and healing.– A vision of spirituality focused on love, justice, and liberation—not fear and control.📖 Grab Brian’s book Hell Bent here: https://amzn.to/3VBCWdl(As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through this link helps support the show.)👉 What do YOU think about hell’s role in Christian spirituality? Drop your perspective in the comments—we’d love to hear your story.✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Check out the Jordan Harbinger Show, a podcast I've been diving into for the last several years. Jordan has interviewed some fascinating guests from spies to whistle blowers, including some previous guests from the Preacher Boys. I've been hooked and I'm sure you will be too!
Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️Charlie Kirk’s shocking assassination on September 10, 2025 has sparked outrage, grief, and controversy across social media. As someone who critiques religious fundamentalism, Christian nationalism, and the toxic politics of the religious right, I feel compelled to speak clearly: Charlie Kirk’s death was wrong, but it does not make his beliefs right. In this video, I unpack the dangerous binary thinking surrounding his legacy, the way fundamentalist leaders are weaponizing his death, and why dehumanization—whether from the left or right—only fuels division. Join me as I address the tension between condemning violence while still challenging harmful ideologies.Full article: https://open.substack.com/pub/preacherboys/p/reflecting-on-charlie-kirks-death?r=15p355&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Link to full article: https://open.substack.com/pub/preacherboys/p/pastor-scott-gray-resigns-amid-financial✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Link to full original article: https://preacherboys.substack.com/p/sure-sexual-abuse-is-bad-but-his✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Pre-Order a copy of The Myth of Good Christian Parenting: How False Promises Betrayed a Generation of Evangelical Families: https://amzn.to/45wKDHn✖️✖️✖️Christian parents want to raise godly children, but what happens when popular biblical parenting methods cause more harm than good? The Myth of Good Christian Parenting exposes how the Christian parenting industry has sold families false promises for five decades, leaving a trail of religious trauma, damaged relationships, and lost faith in its wake. This groundbreaking analysis offers● historical analysis - traces the development of the Christian parenting industry and its influential figures who built parenting empires;● research-based insights - features survey data from adult children and parents affected by authoritarian parenting methods;● theological examination - analyzes how popular teachings on authority, compliance, corporal punishment, and control diverge from Jesus's teachings; and● encouragement for a better future - equips readers to pursue a new path of freedom and mutual respect within their families.Marissa Franks Burt and Kelsey Kramer McGinnis combine rigorous research with compelling storytelling to reveal how evangelical parenting culture has shaped--and often strained--families from the 1970s to today. Drawing on history, sociology, theology, and extensive survey responses from adult children and parents, they trace the rise of Christian parenting empires that idealize obedient children and perfect households while leaving real families feeling inadequate. They also examine the lasting damage caused by popular Christian parenting teachings--including loss of faith, estrangement, religious trauma, and deep regret for older parents--and provide hope for healing.Whether you're a Christian parent questioning traditional methods, an adult recovering from a strict religious upbringing, or a church leader seeking healthier family ministry approaches, this book equips you to pursue mutual respect, emotional safety, and authentic faith within your family relationships.✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
In this episode, my friend Lindsey Williams (Shiny Happy People) joins me to chat about the book that ruined fundamentalist childhoods everywhere – Turmoil in the Toybox by Phil PhillipsYou can purchase a used copy here if you want to check it out for yourself, and purchases made through the link also support this show! https://amzn.to/4oBXgs0✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Jared Smith is the creative force behind Heliocentric, a one-man metal band exploring themes of religion, faith, and doubt. Raised in a devout Pentecostal home, he studied biblical languages and theology before leaving Christianity to become an outspoken atheist. Through his YouTube series Atheist Church Audits and his music, Jared offers respectful yet critical insights into church culture, toxic leadership, and belief systems, fostering dialogue between believers and nonbelievers.✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
A disturbing case exposed how the Mormon Church’s 24/7 legal hotline advised bishops not to report child abuse, citing clergy-penitent privilege under Arizona law. Despite years of abuse, the father wasn’t stopped until law enforcement discovered evidence online. After a judge initially shielded the church from lawsuits, an appeals court reversed the decision in 2025, highlighting loopholes in reporting laws. Most states, including Arizona, still allow clergy to withhold abuse reports, but some—like TX, WA, and NC—have eliminated these exemptions. Many urge closing these legal gaps to better protect children.✖️✖️✖️Watch my coverage of the ongoing fight to end clergy loopholes in Washington: https://youtu.be/ZLz2WOM7ND0?si=yXrNWIJ2Th-NqYsx✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Read the full story with links to sources: https://preacherboys.substack.com/p/trump-doj-moves-to-shield-clergy✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Check out the Jordan Harbinger Show, a podcast I've been diving into for the last several years. Jordan has interviewed some fascinating guests from spies to whistle blowers, including some previous guests from the Preacher Boys. I've been hooked and I'm sure you will be too!
Go subscribe to my friends over at the Leaving Eden Podcast!https://www.youtube.com/ @leaving_eden ✖️✖️✖️Support the mission of the Preacher Boys Podcast and get early access to episodes plus exclusive behind-the-scenes content: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Support the mission of the Preacher Boys Podcast and get early access to episodes plus exclusive behind-the-scenes content: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
UPDATE (July 23, 2025): A Bob Jones University Spokesperson provided the following statement:"We would not send a notification email about alleged conduct especially in a situation when (as here) all of the following things are true: (a) at the time we became aware of the alleged abuse, the employee had already resigned, (b) the police are already investigating, (c) the alleged abuser’s relationship with and access to the victim were not school related, and (d) the conduct is not alleged to have occurred on campus, and (e) the school had policies and practices in place at all times to guard against the potential of abusive or exploitive relationships in the school context.Also in that scenario, we want to (and did) cooperate fully with law enforcement and defer to their lead in the investigation. In the absence of any indication or instruction from law enforcement that we should participate in their investigation by putting out an alert or a request for information, we did not think it appropriate or necessary to “supplement” (and possibly interfere with) their investigation, particularly when, as explained above, there is not an imminent threat of additional wrongdoing in our setting.The linked documents outline our procedures in regard to prevention and reporting."https://www.bju.edu/life-faith/safety/policies.pdfhttps://ministrysafe.com/the-safety-system/awareness-training/✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️A camp director at Bob Jones University was arrested for abusing a 15-year-old girl. In this powerful episode of the Preacher Boys Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Camille Kaminski Lewis, professor at Furman University and founder of WutBJU, to expose how deep the silence and gaslighting around abuse at BJU goes.Dr. Lewis has spent over a decade meticulously tracking arrest records and matching them to Bob Jones University yearbooks—revealing a disturbing trend of grads with histories of abuse.✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️Full article with links to sources: https://preacherboys.substack.com/p/youth-pastor-and-wife-abused-sixIn this video, I break down four major Baptist church scandals from July 8–15, 2025: a Harris Creek Baptist Church pastoral resident arrested for distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM); LGBTQ+ protesters rallying outside Sure Foundation Baptist Church in Indianapolis after sermons calling for violence against LGBTQ+ people; the indictment of John and Kathy Radcliff for sexually abusing six children; and First Baptist Church of Hammond, IN, featuring controversial pastor Tim Ruhl – despite his alleged history of covering up abuse – as a youth conference speaker.Viewer discretion advised due to sensitive topics.✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️The rise of toxic conservative “alpha male” content I have seen online doesn’t surprise me.And it’s also no surprise that many Gen Z men who consume this type of content are currently finding themselves being drawn to religious communities at a higher rate than women.Many fundamentalist Christian churches treat rigid patriarchal beliefs as inseparable from their faith.Unfortunately "boys rule, girls drool" makes up a big chunk of their theology.Chapters00:00 The Link Between Toxic Alpha Males and Fundamentalist Christianity01:28 The Top 10 Lies I Was Taught About Masculinity03:09 Listener Stories04:08 Lust, Shame, and Purity Culture06:20 Sermons That Reinforce Sexist Theology09:13 When Women Get Blamed for Men’s Sin12:16 The Role of Modesty in Victim-Blaming17:19 “What Were You Wearing?” and the Exhibit That Says It All21:31 Pastors Who Preach Women’s Responsibility24:25 How Women Become Both the Temptation and the Cure25:44 Reframing Bathsheba: A Story Misused27:36 Modern Preaching and the Policing of Women29:36 Obedience, Headship, and Control33:11 “She’s Fulfilled by Submission”37:04 “I Own My Wife”: The Language of Possession38:59 Theology That Traps Victims in Abuse40:19 Final Thoughts and An Invitation to Speak Out✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️In this special Q&A episode of the Preacher Boys Podcast, host Eric Skwarczynski addresses listener questions on a range of topics related to abuse, accountability, and recovery within fundamentalist Christian communities. The episode covers updates on the Steven Anderson case, including ongoing CPS investigations and a forthcoming documentary, as well as practical resources for recognizing and preventing abuse in church settings. Eric shares personal updates, advice for finding community after leaving high-control religions, and candid thoughts on the value of Bible colleges. The episode also features survivor-informed guidance on supporting victims of church-based sexual assault, emphasizing the importance of listening, respecting boundaries, and focusing on victim-centered support.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction & Audience Questions01:41 Steven Anderson Cult Update: CPS investigations, family allegations, and a new documentary by Paul Wittenberger12:00 Signs of Abuse in Christian Communities: Books and resources for prevention and awareness16:03 Personal Update: How’s Eric’s wife doing?16:59 Finding Community After Leaving High-Control Religion: Practical steps and personal stories20:09 Turmoil in the Toy Box: Revisiting the book and its impact on fundamentalist childhoods27:39 Are Bible Colleges Worth It? Honest thoughts on cost, accreditation, and real value30:10 Justice System & Abuse: How the system protects powerful men, the role of the Christian Law Association, and the importance of victim-centered support35:20 Supporting Survivors: How to help a loved one after church-based sexual assault, with advice from survivors themselvesResources Mentioned:“Predators” by Anna Salter: https://amzn.to/4kuIsIA“God Made All of Me”: https://amzn.to/3TBpBAC“On Guard” by Deepak Reju: https://amzn.to/46ypBJd“Complicit”: https://amzn.to/40b90aw“Saving Five”: https://amzn.to/4lmwemx✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
In this episode of the Preacher Boys Podcast, Eric Skwarczynski highlights three recent stories within Baptist churches: the violent anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric if Sure Foundation Baptist Church, the arrest warrant for teacher Torrie Lemon at Colonial Christian School, and the sexual assault charges against 22-year-old pastor Devin Carroll in North Carolina.✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
In this episode of the Preacher Boys Podcast, host Eric Schwisinski sits down with Cara Meredith, author of Church Camp: Bad Skits, Cry Night, and How White Evangelicalism Betrayed a Generation. Together, they unpack the formative – and often fraught – world of evangelical church camps. Cara shares insights from her 30 years in camp ministry and her research, including interviews with dozens of former campers and staff across the U.S.The conversation explores the nostalgia and positive aspects of camp, as well as the darker threads: pressured conversions, purity culture, patriarchy, and the marginalization of women, LGBTQ individuals, and people of color. Cara and Eric discuss how church camp acts as a microcosm of white evangelicalism, often pushing conformity and suppressing individuality under the guise of faith formation. They also reflect on leadership, intent, and the importance of elevating marginalized voices within church spaces.Whether you have fond memories of camp or are re-examining its impact, this episode offers a nuanced look at the complexities, harms, and hopes for change in faith-based youth experiences.Timestamps:00:00 Intro and why church camp is worth discussing04:00 Who the book is for and why it was written07:30 Cara’s history and experience in camp ministry10:30 The universal positives: fun, nature, and friendships13:45 The recurring negatives: shame, guilt, and pressured conversions17:30 Purity culture and its impact on campers20:00 The intentions of camp leaders vs. the reality of harm23:15 The business side of camp and conversion26:00 The role of nostalgia and critical reflection29:00 Conformity, identity, and the impact on marginalized groups33:30 “Cry night” and emotional manipulation36:00 Gender roles, patriarchy, and lack of women in leadership41:00 What would change if more women led camps?44:30 Elevating marginalized voices in faith spaces48:00 Reconciling good memories with the reality of harm51:00 Final thoughts and who the book is forSupport the Show:Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at
betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
to me this sounds like it is an emotional affair. This fits everything that was confessed. emotional affairs meet the need of the non-sexual parts of marriage that a person might not be getting. I could see this starting with a counseling type of texting that turned into something completely inappropriate and yet not sexual. and somehow I think the language that he talks about what sexual just maybe not about both of them together.
I zoned out this entire episode.
this was chringy...... I went to a college that was a CULT. when I tried to leave, the dean of woman had me in her office talking me into staying and that it was God's will for me to be there and I shouldn't be leaving...