In this compelling episode of "Our People: Holdeman Mennonite Stories," we sit down with Starla, an inspiring individual who opens up about her life growing up in and eventually leaving the Holdeman church, officially known as the Church of God in Christ Mennonite. Starla was born in the close-knit community of Linden, Alberta, where she was the eighth of nine children in her family. The episode begins with Starla sharing her early memories of life in a large family, where she often felt like a forgotten child, a sentiment that has profoundly shaped her perspective. Starla candidly discusses the unique challenges she faced while growing up in a high-control religious environment. She describes the rigid structures and expectations that defined her upbringing, offering listeners a glimpse into the everyday realities of life within the Holdeman church. Her narrative provides valuable insights into the social and emotional dynamics of living in a community where conformity and obedience are paramount. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Starla's transformative journey after leaving the church. She talks about the difficulties and triumphs she encountered as she navigated life outside of the only community she had ever known. Starla’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery, highlighting her determination to build a new life on her own terms. Starla’s work as a sexual abuse victim advocate is another focal point of the conversation. She shares how her personal experiences have fueled her passion for advocacy and her commitment to educating professionals about the intricacies of high-control religious organizations. Her advocacy work is crucial in helping survivors of abuse find their voice and in raising awareness about the often hidden challenges faced by individuals who leave such groups. Throughout the episode, Starla’s strength and dedication shine through. She reflects on the importance of support networks and the role they played in her journey towards healing and empowerment. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit’s capacity for growth and transformation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the complexities of high-control religious groups, the challenges of breaking free, and the inspiring stories of those who have found their voice and purpose beyond such communities. Join us as we listen to Starla’s extraordinary journey, filled with poignant moments, hard-earned wisdom, and a hopeful outlook. If Starla's story resonates with you or you have your own story to share, consider joining us as a guest to further this vital conversation. Reach out to us at ⁠[email protected]⁠ with your thoughts or suggestions for future interviews. Follow us on Facebook: ⁠⁠https://rb.gy/cj55td⁠⁠ Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1KwYkbtbIswUN3z6JSrqz5?si=0913b1c334724490⁠⁠ Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@OurPeoplePodcast⁠⁠ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-people-holdeman-mennonite-stories/id1740613045⁠