Out of the Poisoned Pond: Jennie’s Story [343]

What happens when you grow up in hyper-conservative church culture, marry your Bible camp sweetheart at 20, and then spend decades swimming in a poisoned pond of patriarchy, affairs, gaslighting, and spiritual abuse? Jennie’s story is a real look at what it takes to finally climb out of the muck and into fresh water. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it me? Or is this whole thing just completely bonkers?” then pull up a chair. Jennie’s journey from silent suffering to empowered freedom will resonate with every woman who’s ever been told to “submit more, pray harder, and wear longer skirts” while her husband runs wild and gets a pat on the back from church elders. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How a “perfect Christian marriage” turned into decades of betrayal and control. The role toxic church teachings played in keeping Jennie (and her kids) trapped. Why standing up for her daughter was the unexpected turning point that led Jennie toward freedom. The difference between swimming in poisoned pond water and finally breathing fresh air. How Flying Free gave Jennie the tools, words, and community she needed to rewire her brain and rebuild her life. The power of “just the next step” (because I hate to break it to you, but God doesn’t hand out the whole escape plan on a silver platter). Read the full show notes and/or ask Natalie a question here Related Resources: Some other survivor stories to give you hope: “ Military Marriage Abuse: Elizabeth’s Story ,” and “ Escaping the Man Everyone Admired: Lisa’s Story .”