Tammie Willis grew up in a Christian fundamentalist church in Virginia that she now knows was a cult by the ways in which it abused and controlled its members. She explains how her church, school, and family life were all steeped in methods of control based on fear, abuse, dependency, coercion, and obedience at all costs. Tammie describes how although she's been away from fundamentalism for 30 years, she's still coming to terms with how her life has been affected. She goes on to explain how seeing what is happening in the United States political system and the rise of Christian nationalism has been eye-opening and triggering for her. Before you go: Rachel discusses religious trauma and spiritual abuse, which despite being frighteningly commonplace are still relatively unknown to the public. She describes ways in which these abuses can manifest themselves throughout the lives of those who are victimized by them. Thanks so much to our newest Patrons; Ellie, Lindsey Millen, Jason M, Elizabeth Long, Karen Unterreiner, Anne, and Jake Phillips! We appreciate your support!