This woman was interrogated by cult leaders. Female Hollywood writer, actor, director, Bonnie Root, explores the system of manipulation, abuse, and control in the Jehovah Witnesses and the film industry. We dive into her experience with a cult Judicial Committee, sexual interrogations, her award-winning film, "Sissy" about grooming of teens, The Movie, a physchological thriller, and her new ExJW film coming out, Diary of Heather Keating, a narrative exposing the Judicial Committee for the abuse common in the Jehovah's Witness system of punishment. Share your experience with the community in the comments!We met because my Witness Underground documentary and her film, THE MOVIE, both played at GenreBlast Film Festival. The director, Michael Mandell, approached me after seeing Witness Underground to let me know that Bonnie Root, the star actor in his film, THE MOVIE, was also a former Jehovah's Witness. I invited her to our California film premiere in Los Angeles at the Filmocracy Film Festival. A bunch of ExJW's showed up and we've been in touch ever since. I'm so excited to be able to share her amazing work with you!In this gripping narrative directed by Bonnie Root, a prominent female director in Hollywood, the harrowing realities of religious oppression and manipulation come to light. Her experience being interrogated and abused by cult leaders has shaped much of her life and empowered her to expose this religion for what it really is, a dangerous manipulative control cult. Her films delve into the depths of cruelty within religious processes, highlighting the systemic violations of women's rights.This woman's journey unfolds as she faces offensive religious interrogations and manipulative control tactics by the Jehovah Witnesses' judicial committee. Through Root's lens, we witness the profound impact of the system of manipulation, abuse, and control within this organization."Diary of Heather Keating," scripted by Root, promises a raw exploration of narcissistic abuse within the context of religious communities. Root's previous work on "Sissy" has established her as a formidable force in shedding light on sensitive topics, particularly the destructive form of grooming common in this cult.She confronts the reality of women's rights violations and the insidious nature of religious oppression processes. Experience the power of storytelling to expose the truth to ignite global awareness and change.🎬 👁️‍🗨 In her gripping psychological thriller, The Movie, Bonnie Root, who once endured the negative experiences of an abusive cult, the Jehovah's Witnesses, takes us on a journey through the real inspiration behind horror. Join us as she shares profound insights into the parallel themes of abuse, drawing from her own life experiences.🔍 Bonnie Root's portrayal as a Hollywood actress mirrors the haunting realities of her past. Discover the chilling narrative of a repairman tormenting a washed-up actress in her own home, echoing the psychological trauma she endured within the confines of the abusive Jehovah'Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Ryan DuVal, software engineer and old friend from Colorado, was the only person I asked to help produce Witness Underground. He flew up from Asheville North Carolina as our producer in Minneapolis and was the guiding light for multiple editing revisions.He brought a fresh perspective to the project that became essential in telling this deep nuanced story. This episode was recorded at the Auxbus podcast studio in Asheville, a start-up where he pioneered the audio software we recorded this on. He interviews me and my personal back story for the first time.  (Auxbus was later bought by Libsyn and his software is their trademark audio editing software for their podcast  distribution company). This was recorded on the heals of our production together, and after story-lock in our documentary post-production phase. He had a huge hand in the production influencing the story, and pulling out many valuable moments across our interviews. He also ran sound, wrote interview questions, and asked the interview questions, co-directing the storytelling.  He also ran second camera for interviews, live performance music videos, and also some of the side stories that made it into the film, among many additional roles that we shared. He was essential in the creation of this film.  Enjoy this episode as he digs into my back story and the creation of this film, the XJW Coming Out series, and this podcast.Thanks Ryan!Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MXHELuzxVbYSiân Walmsley Krubeck did the heavy lifting of story editing and color for our feature documentary Witness Underground. In this episode we dive into the process, challenges, clashes, pressures, frustrations, and successes of working together in our first discussion after creating the film. She has since worked on several other films and also written her first novel. All of Siân's links:https://linktr.ee/sjkrubeckRead The Devil Drinks Mocha:https://a.co/d/19S3x2zSupport the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/i8zV6W-lKiE Subscribe if you like this content.Former Elder in Jehovah's Witnesses, Gary Alt, was even a long-time "Bethelite," a worker at their world headquarters called Watchtower (a book publishing company masquerading as a religion). One of his contributions while there was cultural. He was asked to host a monthly music entertainment night at Bethel.Check out his songs:"Here are a handful of songs you might be interested in. The "still IN" songs variously have something to do with my exiting the JWs.[still IN]Falling Down vocal by Jaywayhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tl__9Y2BJq8Bleed For You vocal by Jaywayhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USzsewK8WZsSpinhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8poJf5pTzxEWhatever (I knew this wasn't a good song when I did it, but I needed one more for my album Not For Sale To Minors and wanted it to be raw-sounding - deliberately done with the angst and minimalist values of John Lennon's early solo recordings)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjOZPqdskaA[OUT]Never Ending Always vocal by Lori Klein (written for my novel, Force of Will which used the pseudonym Tan Swiftwater - there's an interesting story to the song)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbRK0HbqMiMThis Holy Day vocal by post-JW Gayann from NYhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OMPcoB9vL0Wake Up vocal by post-JW Emma-Jade Mechen, daughter of Shane, from New Zealandhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LAjNwRe6GwAnything else you might be interested in may be found on Spotify by searching for "Gary Alt" and the following album names, all done when I was JW:-Tribute-(Not) For Sale To Minors-Beef Wellington and the Mad Cows - Masticated Bovine (joint project with JW friend Jayway when I was in)-Gift of Projection (EP that predicted Art of Survival but has only 2 songs in common with it)-Art of Survival (my best IMO)And a couple of relatively recent extra songs that are not on any album:-Shine a Light-The Moon is Broken Tonight-Western Lady - vocal by Rick Barth (YouTube only, not actually released)-Color Wind (demo only)Back in the Free World - vocal by Larry Hayden https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3g0Ch6YYMeg " - Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kyhAPbxw9Rs Subscribe there if you like this content.Our Co-Producer, Anthony Mathenia, meets up with Scott Homan and Ryan Sutter in an engaging conversation highlighting his film work with Outlaw films, and the four books he wrote.From Outlaw FilmsFree to watch with ads on Tubi:Dope Men: America's First Drug Cartelhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100008549/dope-men-america-s-first-drug-cartelNight Lifehttps://tubitv.com/movies/100009015/night-lifeNew release for download or rent on Amazon:Psychedelic Revolutionhttps://www.amazon.com/Psychedelic-Revolution-Secret-History-Trade/dp/B0CKLYM2YXFrom Gorilla ConvictLucky Graphic Novel — Read for free with Kindle Unlimitedhttps://www.amazon.com/Lucky-Gangster-Graphic-Novel-Luciano-ebook/dp/B0CFBV714NGorilla Convictwww.gorillaconvict.comSupport the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch this special episode on YouTube:https://youtube.com/live/cYA8AmHud-4Rewrite your subconscious with Jonam's self-authorship hypnotherapy program! We jump into how it works and the process you'll experience when you start.Courteously made available to backers, Jonam Ross's course can help with recovery from trauma and much more.You will learn how to become your own hypnotherapist and build a high degree of competence in working with your unconscious mind and leveraging unconscious resources towards conscious intentions.You will master tried and tested methods that enable you to live your life feeling that your mind is truly your best asset, working with you and for you.You will lay deep foundations that will augment and support you in any other personal development or therapeutic work you choose to take part in.You will re-train your brain so that your desired results come as a natural byproduct of who you are, rather than having to feel like you’re “faking it to make it.”If you supported at any level during our film release on Kickstarter in November, the introductory course was made available to you. Here's the link to try it out. https://www.religionrehab.co.uk/hypnotherapy Witness Underground is the only film to humanize cult life & survival via self-expression.Within the confines of an elusive cult, a vibrant alternative music community thrived, deprogramming themselves through art. Poignant live performances punctuate tragic losses to beautifully illuminate shunning by Jehovah's Witnesses.  🚀We successfully hit our goal on Kickstarter to release Witness Underground, thanks to your support and shares and the hard work of Jonam Ross and our global collaborative team.Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Youtube Version of this episode:https://youtube.com/live/4zuAoAVoX2EScott Ariza, Hyouhen in the gaming world, joined Witness Underground for our film release launch on Kickstarter. Scott and I are both connected to great people in the film world in Los Angeles through Filmocracy Film Festival. That group has become a really important community and film festival for Witness Underground. Scott and I met through the Filmocracy Discord. https://filmocracy.comPaul and Philip Jun are brothers and co-founders of the company. Paul Jun worked for years distributing and selling films at Cannes Film Festival and now they have created a platform with indie filmmakers in mind. Filmocracy has become a serious player in the distribution and festival area, disrupting giants.Check out Scott Ariza's Photography Portfolio:https://sharkostudios.com/landscapeBookings - Sharko Studioshttps://sharko.pixieset.com/bookingWitness Underground is the only film to humanize cult life & survival via self-expression.Within the confines of an elusive cult, a vibrant alternative music community thrived, deprogramming themselves through art. Poignant live performances punctuate tragic losses to beautifully illuminate shunning by Jehovah's Witnesses.  🚀We successfully hit our goal on Kickstarter to release Witness Underground thanks to your support and shares and the hard work and consistency of Scott Ariza and the rest of our Core Team.-ScottSupport the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Youtube Version of this episode:https://youtube.com/live/9_cib9UF8C8Klaas De Loose with Monster Match Studios joined Witness Underground to bring it to the professional level that you see today. Let’s dive into his music and illustrations!Check out his work at https://mnstrmtch.comFrom Klaas:"As a Jehovah's Witness, I used to be a people pleaser and that also reflected my work as a graphic designer. I arrived at a certain place in my life and I want to be completely myself when it comes to my art and music, that means becoming more confident. In my professional life that means that I try to accept only assignments that I personally like so that I can develop my personal style - which I do. In my spare and free time, I try to focus on becoming more of a performing musician with a high focus on ambience and visual style.This of course was out of the question being a JW."The band featured is Korinthians.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVNPRtJxBqsKlaas's website:https://www.ruzd.worldKlaas's Instagram account:https://www.instagram.com/ruzd81Klaas's YT channel:https://www.youtube.com/@RuZd2046 Music Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrKp_R9hIf8Break Me Down Music Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7y-liGjDuxoPatreonhttps://www.patreon.com/ruzdThanx Amigo - This was great!Btw: this is my linktree:https://linktr.ee/ruzdWitness Underground is the only film to humanize cult life & survival via self-expression.Within the confines of an elusive cult, a vibrant alternative music community thrived, deprogramming themselves through art. Poignant live performances punctuate tragic losses to beautifully illuminate shunning by Jehovah's Witnesses.  🚀We successfully hit our goal on Kickstarter to release Witness Underground thanks to your support and shares and the hard work of the artists behind the scenes like Klaas who elevated the quality of the film. His work helped us to get into 11 film festivals and to win Best Feature Documentary at GenreBlast Film FestivalReach out directly XJWdoc@gmail.com-ScottSupport the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch this episode on YouTube:https://youtube.com/live/ZkyWnvYqe7wDenise Braitsch wrote Rising From the Ashes of the Jehovah's Witnesses. Available now https://a.co/d/0tgc9e7Listen to her music, subscribe to her newsletter for The Past Life Detective, and more here:https://linktr.ee/isisiallthingsWitness Underground is the only film to humanize cult life & survival via self-expression.Within the confines of an elusive cult, a vibrant alternative music community thrived, deprogramming themselves through art. Poignant live performances punctuate tragic losses to beautifully illuminate shunning by Jehovah's Witnesses.  🚀We successfully hit our goal on Kickstarter to release Witness Underground thanks to your support and shares and the hard work of Denise and the rest of our Core Team.-ScottSupport the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch on YouTube now: https://youtube.com/live/Zpl13FTgfWoWe're joined in this special episode by Augustus Watkins, drummer in the band Ghost Army, featured in Witness Underground the documentary and Motion Picture Soundtrack. Augustus is prolific in his creation of music and next level in promotion. Dive into his work here:Get Ghost Army's Album Sleepywood Dojo. https://ghostarmympls.bandcamp.com/album/sleepywood-dojoIf you're a musician, consider signing with GIVE/TAKE - a boutique record label based in Los Angeles and Minneapolis, specializing in auteur-driven, experimental projects with an electronic approach. https://givetake.lifeAugustus Watkins - augustuswatkins.comBijou Noir - altpop/singer-songwriter - https://bijounoir.coNew Bijou Noir single “Cuckoo Bird" drops 12/1 via GIVE/TAKE Single release show in Los Angeles at Love Song Bar 12/2 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/only-in-dreams-linuss-bijou-noir-bryce-lamar-tickets-750106297127Tulip Tiger - insouciant big beat - http://tuliptiger.com/DEATHDANCE - future goth - http://officialdeathdance.com/Cocaine Opera - LA Media C*nts - http://cocaineopera.com/Tied to the Tracks - a podcast about great albums from side 1 track 1 to the final chord, cohosted with The Current’s Barb Abney: https://ttttpod.com/Witness Underground is the only film to humanize cult life & survival via self-expression.Within the confines of an elusive cult, a vibrant alternative music community thrived, deprogramming themselves through art. Poignant live performances punctuate tragic losses to beautifully illuminate shunning by Jehovah's Witnesses.  🚀We successfully hit our goal on Kickstarter to release Witness Underground thanks to your support and shares plus the efforts of our extended team such as Augustus Watkins via his media PR firm promotions via Cocaine Opera. He was a huge support right from the beginning.-ScottSupport the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch this episode on YouTube now:https://youtube.com/live/76y2DjgtKbQGet Micah Allen Losh's Apostasy Trilogy as physical copies. Info: https://www.micahallenlosh.com/theapostasytrilogyStore - Special Discount on the Apostate Trilogy: https://witness-underground-cult-documentary-release.pledgebox.com/preorderThe Apostasy Trilogy is the most interesting and exciting book series in the ExJW world to date. Be sure to get copies now. Witness Underground is the only film to humanize cult life & survival via self-expression.Within the confines of an elusive cult, a vibrant alternative music community thrived, deprogramming themselves through art. Poignant live performances punctuate tragic losses to beautifully illuminate shunning by Jehovah's Witnesses.  🚀We successfully hit our goal on Kickstarter to release Witness Underground thanks to your support and shares and the hard work of Micah A. Losh and the rest of our Core Team.-Scott Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch on YouTube now:https://youtu.be/c9Q5U4afGxE Danielle Martain is connected to every person featured in the Witness Underground documentary. Check out her podcast, Failure to Thriving! instagram.com/failuretothrivingListen to their albums:https://puffpuff.bandcamp.com/album/echoWitness Underground is the only film to humanize cult life & survival via self-expression.Within the confines of an elusive cult, a vibrant alternative music community thrived, deprogramming themselves through art. Poignant live performances punctuate tragic losses to beautifully illuminate shunning by Jehovah's Witnesses.  🚀We successfully hit our goal on Kickstarter to release Witness Underground, thanks to your support and shares, the hard work of Danielle Martain for having me on as a guest just before our launch, and our global collaborative team. Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

http://www.WitnessUnderground.comWe've launched the Kickstarter campaign of our dreams! Support the film and the community. 32 donated albums, 9 E-Books, HD Documentary with Extras, Soundtrack, and more. Everything we could think of!Matthew Smiley, a long-time supporter on Patreon, pledged to become an Associate Producer, to support Witness Underground to help us get onto streaming platforms in our general release in November/December Become an Associate Producer. and join film history as well as get the NUCLEAR GOPHER SUPER PACKAGE and THE MERCH TABLE - Everything we could think that you would actually fall in love with.Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

WitnessUnderground.comWe've launched the Kickstarter campaign of our dreams! Support the film and the community. 32 donated albums, 9 E-Books, HD Documentary with Extras, Soundtrack and more. Everything we could think of!Elle Reno Pledged to become an Associate Producer to support Witness Underground getting onto streaming platforms in our general release. Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Watch this episode on YouTube:https://youtu.be/7TILtTd4lIYThe Bloody Tuesdays, David Quesada, has been an excellent collaborative partner since the day we met. After we met and recorded our episodes together, I had another opportunity to edit our feature documentary, Witness Underground, which we discussed in this episode, and I cut into the intro, a moment from one of his songs, Jehovah Never Knows, from his sophomore album, Hymns of a Millenials Dawn. I'm excited for you to hear it and I'm so proud to be able to feature this track in our official Motion Picture Soundtrack. Listen and Buy his Exit Trilogy here:https://thebloodytuesdays.bandcamp.comOur Season One episode with him for the Witness Underground Podcast is still my favorite episode (Pt 1 & Pt 2). I have since emulated this format in the second season as much as possible. I feel like I found my creative voice with The Bloody Tuesdays in showing off great music and story telling. Check out those episodes here:Part 1: https://youtu.be/o7eIsAEnhZ4Part 2: https://youtu.be/7n90UH6qksMWitness Underground is the only film to humanize cult life & survival via self-expression.Within the confines of an elusive cult, a vibrant alternative music community thrived, deprogramming themselves through art. Poignant live performances punctuate tragic losses to beautifully illuminate shunning by Jehovah's Witnesses.  🚀We successfully hit our goal on Kickstarter to release Witness Underground thanks to your support and shares, and the hard work of David Quesada and artists like him, who are on the official soundtrack, and continue to put out incredible music. Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

🎵 Join us in this impactful interview highlighting Valentine's three-album set: Go Die, Your Old Bones, and I Am Tyrant. These albums intricately weave together his escape from a repressive faith group and his triumphant emergence into newfound liberation. Our conversation is soundtracked by all three albums and all of his b-sides and singles! 🎵🔔 Stay Engaged 🔔Follow Blueskys:Spotify - Blue Skys  Three albums B-Sides: SoundClickInstagram - @ValejioWatch XJW Coming Out series episodes and video podcast  YouTube.com/@WitnessUnderground SUPPORT AND WATCH: https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundFeature and Podcast: https://WitnessUnderground.comNewsletter: https://sendfox.com/BananaIsland🎶 Blue Skys Three Album Trilogy Unveiled 🎶Go Die: Kicking off the trilogy, this album captures the essence of Valentine's awakening within the confines of his faith. It's a testament to the power of music as a means of expression, allowing him to navigate the restrictive environment he found himself in.Your Old Bones: The second chapter of the trilogy, this album delves into Valentine's journey of self-discovery following his departure from the Jehovah's Witness cult. It's an exploration of rebirth and healing, beautifully reflected through his music.I Am Tyrant: Concluding the trilogy with triumphant notes, this album celebrates Valentine's newfound freedom and empowerment. It showcases his artistic evolution and his embrace of individuality and identity.💥 Defining Moment: 'Jealousy' and Witness Underground 💥Valentine's narrative gained broader recognition when his early composition 'Jealousy' was featured in the documentary Witness Underground, which sheds light on Nuclear Gopher, a music community born within the confines of a cult.🌟 A Journey Beyond Borders 🌟The religion's fervent drive in the 80s and 90s to spread its doomsday message took him to Ecuador as a teenager where he attended high school and participated in missionary activities, where the impending apocalyptic genocide by Jesus was preached with a sense of urgency.Follow Failure To Thriving Podcast:Instagram: @FailureToThriving @kidelle Twitter: @FailureToThriving @kidelleYOUTUBE GROWTH: Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Join Jonam Ross, a renowned hypnotherapist and host of the Religion Rehab podcast, as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Scott Homan, the documentary director behind Witness Underground. Both Scott and Jonam share their personal experiences as ex-Jehovah's Witnesses, shedding light on the dystopian reality of the cult and their journey toward freedom and recovery and now serving the ex-cult community with assistance in recovery.Witness Underground, an eye-opening cult documentary, unravels the hidden world of the DIY artist community that blossomed within the confines of the high-control Jehovah's Witness religion in Minneapolis. This film defies the oppressive restrictions placed on music, fame, and success, which are deemed forbidden by the religion's dogma of "beware of independent thinking." Scott's compelling storytelling captures the struggles faced by these artists as their faith is tested in deeply personal ways.Venturing beyond the surface, Jonam and Scott delve into the harsh realities ex-Jehovah's Witnesses encounter when leaving the cult. The repercussions are severe, with individuals facing the heart-wrenching choice of being shunned by their entire family and social circle for life. Despite these challenges, these resilient artists rally together and establish the independent record label Nuclear Gopher, producing over 30 albums of heartfelt music that speaks to their experiences and aspirations. Both Jonam and Scott are avid guitars drawn to metal and punk respectively which continues to influence their work in assisting those with religious trauma syndrome (RTS) and related PTSD. This gripping episode covers a wide range of topics, including the psychological impact of leaving a high-control relationship, the process of recovering from religious indoctrination, and the unique challenges faced by cult survivors. As atheism takes center stage, Scott shares his journey toward becoming an atheist and the role it played in his healing process. The discussion also touches on the vital work of Religion Rehab, providing resources and support for individuals grappling with the problems associated with organized religions and dangerous cults.If you're searching for an illuminating documentary that explores the chilling reality of cults, Witness Underground is a must-watch. Follow Scott Homan's Witness Underground Podcast and Jonam Ross's Religion Rehab channel for further insights into this gripping ex-Jehovah's Witness story. This collaboration will captivate ex-JWs, atheists, and those intrigued by cult survivor stories, as well as individuals seeking inspiration to move on from religious oppression and reclaim their lives.Prepare to be moved and empowered by this enthralling conversation, as Jonam Ross, a respected hypnotherapist, and Scott Homan, a talented documentary director, delve into the depths of the Orwellian cult that is the Jehovah's Witnesses, offering hope and support to those on a journey of faith recovery and personal liberation.The conversation is both enlightening and empowering, offSupport the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Links discussed and posted in the discussion:The Witness Underground Documentary Project:https://WitnessUnderground.comWatch & Support these ExJW artists:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundListen to the music: http://WitnessUnderground.com/Arthttp://Vaureenband.comWe're back again with another excellent Q&A featuring the artists highlighted in the feature documentary Witness Underground. One of our guests highlights the power of music and self expression to transform and even save lives. From March through May we hosted live, private Virtual Cinema events, with a Film Festival style Q&A after each screening. The panel this time includes musicians: Annie of the band Vaureen (never-JW), Chad Rhiger of Daytrip, Ghost Army, HighTV, Ryan Sutter of The Lavone, Trumpet Marine and others. He's also the co-founder the Nuclear Gopher music production studio that the film discusses, and of course the film's director and this podcast's host, Scott Homan.We had excellent guests in the audience as well that contributed a lot.Join us for this engaging Q&A as we reflect on our past, present, and future as former Jehovah's Witnesses and musicians.00:00 Introduction05:44  Annie of Vaureen - Power of music to heal and save lives08:26 Ryan's Sutter's JW music origin13:38  Audience question - How did we decide to frame our documentary around the Jehovah's Witness indie music scene in Minneapolis?15:26 Godfather & Speculatio - Chad's nicknames for Ryan & Scott16:51 Audience question Has the cult become more lenient over time? 17:25 Ryan Relates last personal interaction with cult family members.21:30 Song Errands by Ryan Sutter - inspired by interactions with cult member father.22:30 Guest Trinity discussion what "Just Announced" means in cult terms.28:37 "Control and fear is the enemy of love" discussion29:26 The Apostle Paul McCartney & Pop Riveter on love33:40 The Akai Pretty Songs About Ugly Things - Eric Elvendahl's production Opus excellent art!35:14 Hira Hira - Ryan's blog that changed many lives and inspired this film - search instructions to download present version36:44 Trinity guest - Their unraveling moment after leaving40:05 Advice - Check the references and quotes40:46 Advice - http://RecoveringFromReligion.org42:28 Fuck I'm an atheist moment - also a great fresh start - label becomes powerless over time47:10 OutroSupport the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

After watching the thought-provoking documentary "Witness Underground," Three artists: an actor, a writer, and a musician, engage in a profound conversation about their personal experiences with shunning and how they navigate through it. Join us as we explore the transformative power of art, music, therapy, movement, and meditation in coping while inside and healing after leaving a cult. Together, we'll embark on a remarkable exploration of consciousness and creativity.https://witnessunderground.comDescription:In this compelling episode, we sit down with Gina Brown, Christopher of the band Scifidelic and a writer, in discussion with Scott Homan, Director of the award winning and eye-opening documentary "Witness Underground," which sheds light on artists who escaped a cult.Together, we delve deep into their unique perspectives on shunning, drawing from their diverse experiences. We explore the profound impact of music, art, therapy, movement, and meditation as coping mechanisms during their time in the cult and as tools for healing after leaving.Prepare to be inspired as we explore their creative endeavors, from dance and acting to crafting a new Streaming Series pitch and building on a successful TikTok channel. We'll also uncover the intriguing story behind their decades-long music project called Scifidelic, featuring a band member known as Caustic, who was once a high-ranking member at the world headquarters of the Jehovah's Witnesses. Discover how their music directly addresses the themes of faith and exiting from it.Our guest, Gina, shares details about her exciting project—a series about the complexities of love, where an unlikely couple comes together amidst their vastly different worlds. Having experienced trauma within the Jehovah's Witness community, Gina incorporates her personal journey into the script, exploring the challenges of same-sex relationships and the harmful influence of the faith. We'll also touch upon the harrowing experiences of her sister-in-law, who faced life-threatening complications during childbirth due to the cult's ban on blood transfusions.Additionally, we discuss the writer's upcoming book, which inspired her escape from the cult and provided solace and courage during her challenging journey. Together, we explore strategies for overcoming triggers, dealing with attachment, and addressing past baggage. Moreover, we delve into the diverse interpretations of the cult's teachings regarding the end of the world and the impact it had on our guests' lives.Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that unveils the power of art, resilience, and self-discovery. Get ready to expand your consciousness and embark on a journey of inspiration and empowerment.Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

WitnessUnderground.comVer el documental aca:Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundBienvenidos a Witness Underground, el podcast donde hablamos con personas que han dejado la secta peligrosa de los Testigos de Jehová. En este episodio, entrevistamos a una mujer, Leidy, de Panamá que comparte su historia de cómo dejó el secta y cómo ha mejorado su vida desde entonces.Nuestra invitada nos habla sobre su relación en evolución con su madre y sus hermanos que aún están dentro de la secta, y el abuso emocional que experimentó al ser shuneada. También nos cuenta su vida dentro de la secta, cómo funciona el proceso de "reheyendo" y la cruel manera en que se expulsan a los miembros y los cortan de sus familias.Hablamos sobre cómo nuestras familias pueden ser atrapadas en este secta y las razones reales detrás del control que ejercen sobre sus miembros. También discutimos cómo usan el miedo para controlar la vida de las personas y separar a los miembros de sus familias.Nuestra invitada comparte cómo puede tener una relación respetuosa con su familia a pesar de que todavía están atrapados en la secta, y cómo ella misma fue convencida de que las enseñanzas eran verdaderas.También hablamos sobre cómo se usan falacias lógicas de autoridad para convencer a los miembros de la validez de las enseñanzas de la secta, y las soluciones que existen para quienes desean dejar la secta.Abordamos cómo funciona el negocio de este secta y las complicaciones que pueden surgir si alguien decide bautizarse en esta religión. Nuestra invitada comparte que es muy difícil salir con dignidad y cómo es mucho más fácil dedicar tiempo a buscar respuestas y soluciones por sí mismo.Finalmente, discutimos las soluciones que existen, incluyendo la búsqueda de ayuda profesional y salir a otro lugar para conocerte mejor.Este ha sido nuestro episodio sobre cómo mejorar tu vida después de dejar la secta de los Testigos de Jehová. Esperamos que les haya gustado y les invitamos a compartir este episodio con amigos y familiares que puedan estar interesados. ¡Gracias por escuchar a Witness Underground!Support the Show.Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott