In this moving in-person episode of the Unholier Podcast, guest host David Keck continues the conversation with Jenny Smith. In Part 2, Jenny explores the complex intersection of family life and the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church, reflecting on how the rigid expectations of the ministry influenced her father’s approach to parenting.

Jenny shares deeply personal memories, including the painful moments where church doctrine took precedence over protection. From being held accountable for things beyond her control to discovering how her father managed her early relationships behind the scenes, she illustrates the intense pressure fundamentalism places on the family unit.

In this episode, we cover:

• Faith & Fatherhood: How church culture and IFB doctrine influenced her upbringing.
• Control and Misogyny: The impact of labels like "Jezebel" and the weight of purity culture.
• The Cycle of Abuse: Connecting a fear-based upbringing to the realities of her first marriage.
• Choosing Freedom: The harrowing journey of leaving with her baby and navigating the aftermath of domestic violence.
• Healing & Parenting: How deconstruction has allowed Jenny to break generational cycles and find a new perspective on God.

Jenny’s story is a powerful look at the struggle to reclaim one's identity while navigating the shadows of a high-control religious environment.

Subscribe to the Unholier Podcast for more stories of resilience, deconstruction, and finding hope after trauma.

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