Five Cults, One Life: Why Unhealed Wounds Keep Pulling Us Back
Welcome to The Place You Can Say It, a podcast from the Religious Trauma Network. If you've ever carried questions you weren't allowed to ask, wounds dismissed in the name of faith, or a story you've struggled to tell, you're in the right place. This is a space for honest conversations about religious trauma, spiritual abuse, deconstruction, recovery, and healing. Whether you're holding onto your faith, rebuilding it, or walking away from it, you're welcome here. Because healing often begins when someone finally listens.
Episode Two Overview
What does it take to rebuild your sense of self after leaving high-control religious environments? In this episode, Nikki shares her journey from a fear-based religious background through multiple cult experiences, and the long process of recovery that followed.
The conversation explores why people may move from one harmful group to another, how the need for belonging and purpose can be exploited, and why leaving a group is only one part of healing. Nikki also shares the particular challenges Black survivors can face when resources and recognition for religious trauma are limited.
Together, Nikki, Scot, Janyne and Rebekah examine how religious trauma can affect identity, relationships, and children across generations - and how community and culturally responsive support can help survivors find language for what they have experienced and begin to heal.
Visit the Religious Trauma Network Resource Page or our personal bios for additional support or resources.
This podcast is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition. This podcast is not therapy.
The guests are not licensed therapists or clinicians. Any advice or opinions given on this site are strictly individual observation and insights based on personal experiences and study. It should in no way take the place of professional assistance.