Growing Up In Polygamy

In this exclusive interview, Kathryn shares her firsthand experience with Bateman’s family, including her relationship with his ex-wife and the role she played in helping care for their children. She opens up about unsettling interactions she witnessed between Sam Bateman and his first wife, long before he declared himself a prophet.One of the most shocking revelations? The moment that pushed his wife to finally leave—and the disturbing request that changed everything.We also discuss Kathryn’s thoughts on the documentary Trust Me: The False Prophet, and the current state of the FLDS community today—especially as members of her own family are still inside.This is an insider perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.If you’ve been following this story or want a deeper understanding of what really happens behind closed doors in these communities, this conversation is one you don’t want to miss.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments.If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamywww.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.comCreate Shorts Easily like us with Opus Clips: https://www.opus.pro/?via=SamandMelissa

How does a story like this finally come to an end… and does it ever really end?In the final episode of Trust Me: A False Prophet, we break down the FBI raid that led to the arrest of Samuel Bateman—and everything that happened after.Even from prison, Bateman continued to control his followers. We talk about how the minors were taken into custody, placed in group homes, and yet were still in contact with him. In a shocking turn, adult followers were instructed to retrieve the girls—leading to a kidnapping that shows just how deep the control ran.We also discuss the heartbreaking betrayal felt by the girls when they learned who had spoken out to authorities, and how difficult it is to break free from that kind of belief system.But this is also where things begin to change.Over time, as the girls were separated and given space away from the influence, they began to speak openly about what had happened—ultimately becoming the key witnesses that led to Bateman being sentenced to 50 years in prison.Many of his followers, including several adult wives and male members, were also held accountable.And yet… even now, some still believe he is a prophet.This final episode is about justice, healing, and the complicated reality of leaving a system like this behind.👉 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: Why do you think some people still hold on to belief, even after everything?If you’ve been following this series, thank you for being here. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more in-depth reactions and discussions.#TrustMe #FalseProphet #SamuelBateman #CultAwareness #TrueCrime #ExMormon #Polygamy #CultSurvivor #YouTubeReactionIf you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamywww.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.comCreate Shorts Easily like us with Opus Clips: https://www.opus.pro/?via=SamandMelissa

Why is it so hard to stop abuse in these communities… even when people know it’s happening?In Episode 2 of Trust Me: A False Prophet, we dive deeper into the case of Samuel Bateman and the devastating reality victims face when law enforcement can’t act without testimony.We talk about how young girls were groomed from birth to obey priesthood leaders and “the prophet,” and how they were taught to share “spiritual testimonies” that led them into these marriages. From the outside, it can be confusing—but from the inside, this level of control is all they’ve ever known.We also break down one of the most frustrating parts of this story:Even when authorities are aware of what’s happening, their hands are often tied unless victims are willing—and able—to speak out.And in the middle of all of this, we highlight the incredible courage of Christine and Tolga, who spent months fighting to help these girls, even when the system wasn’t working in their favor.This episode isn’t just about what happened… it’s about why it keeps happening.👉 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: What needs to change for victims to actually be protected?Topics we cover:Why law enforcement struggles to interveneGrooming and obedience in fundamentalist groups“Spiritual testimony” vs coercionWhy victims don’t (or can’t) speak outChristine & Tolga’s fight to help these girlsIf you appreciate honest conversations and real insight into these communities, make sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more.#TrustMe #FalseProphet #SamuelBateman #CultAwareness #ExMormon #Polygamy #TrueCrime #CultSurvivor #YouTubeReactionIf you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

In Episode 3 of From the Journal of Charles F. Zitting, we continue reading from his self-written autobiography and dive deeper into his early life growing up in rural Utah.In this chapter, Charles shares what day-to-day life looked like working on farms—raising animals, learning responsibility at a young age, and developing a strong work ethic that would shape the rest of his life. He also opens up about more personal moments, including early crushes and what it was like navigating youth within a strict religious environment.As we read his words, we reflect on how these experiences compare to what we lived growing up in Mormon and fundamentalist Mormon communities—where hard work, family roles, and expectations were deeply ingrained from a young age.This episode highlights a more human side of his story—showing not just the faith, but the everyday life, emotions, and experiences that helped shape who he became.If you’re interested in:Mormon upbringing and rural Utah lifeFarm life, responsibility, and work ethicLDS culture and youth experiencesReal-life stories from inside Mormon and FLDS communitiesPersonal journals and firsthand accountsThis series gives you a rare, inside look—told entirely in his own words.Follow along as we continue through the life of Charles F. Zitting, one chapter at a time.#Mormonism #LDS #FLDS #Polygamy #ExMormon #UtahHistory #FarmLife #FaithJourney #RealStories #FamilyLegacyIf you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

In this series, we read and react to the self-written autobiography of Charles F. Zitting—Sam’s grandfather—sharing a rare, firsthand account of life inside Mormonism, including both mainstream LDS beliefs and fundamentalist Mormonism.Through his own words, Charles F. Zitting documents his life, faith, family, and experiences with polygamy, priesthood authority, and religious devotion. As we read his journal, we provide real-life context from our own experiences growing up in Mormon and FLDS communities, offering insight into how these beliefs are taught, lived, and sometimes challenged.In Episode 1, we begin at the start of his story, exploring his early life, spiritual foundation, and the beliefs that shaped his path.This series is for anyone interested in:-Mormon history-LDS vs FLDS beliefs-Polygamy and fundamentalist Mormonism-Real-life stories from inside religious communities-Personal journals and firsthand accountsIf you’re curious about what life is really like inside these worlds, this is a perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.Subscribe and follow along as we continue reading through the life of Charles F. Zitting—one chapter at a time.#Mormonism #FLDS #Polygamy #LDS #MormonStories #FundamentalistMormon #LifeStory #ExMormonIf you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

In this interview, Rose shares her powerful story of growing up in the FLDS church and what life was like in this fundamentalist, patriarchal system.At just 10 years old, Rose’s father was sent away, and she was reassigned to a new family and home, something common in the FLDS. While helping care for her mother’s mental health struggles, Rose was forced into a parental role at a young age, raising siblings before she ever got to be a child herself.As a teenager, Rose began quietly rebelling by pursuing education in secret. She earned her GED and attended college without church approval, a risky decision inside the FLDS where education, especially for girls, is discouraged.In her early 20s, Rose left the FLDS church and began rebuilding her life outside of religious control. Today, she is finding freedom, identity, and healing after growing up in a system rooted in patriarchy and obedience.This interview offers firsthand insight into life inside the FLDS, family reassignment, escaping religious extremism, and the long journey to freedom after leaving a high control group.Rose's Insta: https://www.instagram.com/theerozee/FB: https://www.facebook.com/Theerozee.1993If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

Holding Out HELP Gala: https://holdingouthelp.networkforgood.com/events/95798-2026-igniting-hope-galaCheck out Gardens of Evil: Inside the Zion Society Cult, premiering February 3. Based on Mike King's book, Deceived, a story of coercive control, abuse, and cult influence. Proceeds support children’s advocacy and criminal justice scholarships.Find it here or on your preferred platform: https://go.gamutpodcasts.com/americannightmareseriesIn the Season 20 Tell-All Finale of Sister Wives, we take a step back and reflect on the past, the beliefs that shaped the family, and how everything has led to this moment. This episode revisits the foundations of plural marriage, the idea of “enduring to the end,” and the paths that brought the Browns together in the first place.With apologies seemingly off the table and everyone saying they’re ready to move on, this finale feels like a closing chapter. We break down what was revealed, what was left unsaid, and why Season 20 feels less like a pause—and more like an ending.What do you think… is there really more story left to tell, or did this finale quietly wrap it all up?If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

In this video, we react to Sister Wives Season 20 Tell-All Part 1 and break down two of the biggest moments from the episode.We talk about the sale of Coyote Pass and how each person involved seems to remember the contracts and agreements very differently. The conflicting stories raise real questions about communication, accountability, and what actually happened behind the scenes.We also discuss the uncomfortable moment when Kody says he “did love” Christine, and why that statement didn’t sit well with Christine or David. Is that about lingering feelings, or is it simply a statement of past fact? We share our perspective on why wording matters — especially after everything that’s happened.Let us know what you think:Do you believe the Coyote Pass stories add up, and was Kody’s comment about loving Christine harmless or inappropriate?If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

In this episode of Sister Wives Season 20, Episode 14, we react to Kody and Meri’s intense one-on-one conversation and break down why his apology feels so complicated, loaded, and hard to watch. From years of emotional distance to unresolved power dynamics, this meeting says a lot about where their relationship truly stands.We also dive into the idea of “basement wives” and how that label reflects deeper patterns of hierarchy, neglect, and worth inside polygamous marriages. On top of that, we talk about Janelle’s desire for a spiritual release—and why, in fundamentalist Mormonism, religious permission can feel just as important as emotional closure.As former members of Mormon and Mormon fundamentalist communities, we share personal insight into how faith, control, and loyalty shape these conversations—and why walking away isn’t always as simple as it looks from the outside.Let us know your thoughts in the comments. Did Kody’s apology feel sincere to you? And should Janelle still need a spiritual release to move on?If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

In Sister Wives Season 20, Episode 12, Kody finally begins his long-overdue apology to Christine — but just as things start to get interesting, the episode cuts it in half. We’re left on a major cliffhanger, with the second half of Kody’s apology pushed to the next episode, raising even more questions about whether this is real accountability or just another carefully controlled moment.Let us know your thoughts in the comments: Is Kody’s apology genuine, and what do you think will happen in part two?If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

In our reaction to Sister Wives Season 20 Episode 10, we take a close look at Kody’s sudden desire to “apologize” to his ex-wives — and why it doesn’t feel like the sincere accountability he thinks it is. Instead of owning the hurt he caused, Kody seems more interested in apologizing on his terms, in his timing, and in a way that centers his comfort rather than the women he hurt. We also touch on Janelle’s background and how she came to join Mormon fundamentalism, but only as context for how deeply these relationships were rooted for her .👉 Like, subscribe, and let us know what YOU think of Kody’s apology tour.#SisterWives #SisterWivesReaction #SisterWivesSeason20 #KodyBrown #JanelleBrown #PluralMarriage #RealityTVIf you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org

In this episode, we’re reacting to Sister Wives Season 20 Episode 8, and wow… Coyote Pass finally sells, but not without a super awkward Brown family moment. Janelle, Meri, Kody, and Robyn all show up to sign the paperwork—only to sit in their cars in a full-on standoff where nobody wants to get out first. 😅We also touch on the Browns’ odd plural-family finances and how their setup created tension long before this moment.And of course, we had to poke a little fun at ourselves when the episode sparked a totally random conversation about whether women really like kissing scruffy facial hair or not. 😂Join us as we unpack the awkwardness, the tension, and the humor in this week’s episode — all from the perspectives of an ex-FLDS member and a former mainstream Mormon.👇 Let us know in the comments: Would YOU have gotten out of the car first at Coyote Pass?If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org

In this episode we react to Sister Wives Season 20 Episode 6, and WOW… things got interesting.Kody actually admits that it was his fault the family fell apart, that he didn’t have the skillset for plural marriage, and that he would never be able to pull it off. After years of blaming his wives, this is a moment we didn’t expect.We also talk about the possibility of future reconciliation and family reunions, and whether that’s actually realistic based on everything we’ve seen. Plus, the long-awaited sale of Coyote Pass is finally done—though it sure didn’t seem like a priority for Kody until it became something he wanted.And to top it all off, Kody and Robyn get an email from someone wanting to court the family. Robyn continues to say she is still open to plural marriage… but their actions tell a very different story.✅ Is the Brown family truly done?✅ Could there ever be a real reunion?✅ Is Robyn actually open to plural marriage—or just saying the words?We break it all down from our perspective as former Mormon and former FLDS.Make sure to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments—we love hearing from you!If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.orgAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamyInsta: @growingupinpolygamyNew website is now up! www.growingupinpolygamy.comTheme Song created by @artcowles Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com