Reviews
I love the in-depth stories. This is exactly what I need to not feel like the only one loving life post JW. I regret wasting a decade of my life feeling small & unworthy as a JW. Life is beautiful, people are beautiful, life is GREAT away from this destructive cult.
Jilly in Indy via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/11/24
I can’t even begin to say how much this podcast has helped me. I’m an ex JW and the relatability I have found here has been amazing! I hope to tell my story on the podcast one day!
Nursennylehc via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 12/04/23
Often tragic, and heart breaking- but more often encouraging. The host does an excellent job bringing out the damage that Jehovah’s Witness shunning policy has on innocent members. The host is compassionate while he allows the guests to freely share their truths some times for the first time....Read full review »
br hunt via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 08/23/23
What a wonderful way to give voices to the voiceless and resources for those still in. I’ve been binging since I found you!
xtal reviews via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 08/08/23
Michael, thank you so much for such an incredible body of work. It’s an invaluable resource for those who have left. So amazing to share in the stories of others. They are no brave. Perhaps one day I’ll be brave enough… Thank you
Philip4790 via Apple Podcasts · Great Britain · 04/25/23
I am 19 living in Missouri. (currently pimo but moving in with my “worldly” girlfriend September 1st) I just wanted to say thank you so much for everything. It helps so much hearing stories of other people going through such relatable things! I really appreciated the comment you made in one of...Read full review »
Po3ticInjustic3 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 08/23/22
I’ve recently “woken up” here in the past couple months. Needless to say I’ve had a lot of feelings to process, and your podcast has been one of the things that has helped me keep sane.
LocoYoung17 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 08/20/22
Mike tells his story of escape from the Jehovah’s Witness cult with humility and grace. This series of podcasts gives an outsider a true insight into the closed world of, and twisted beliefs held by JWs. For a practicing JW, Mike’s personal story and un-controversial retelling of his escape, will...Read full review »
The King's Own via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 07/22/22
Excellent content! I’m the author of the new release graphic novel CULT GIRLS (on Amazon & Barnes) by Natalie Grand. It’s a light hearted comedy, based on a true story of 4 women born, raised in the Jehovah’s Witness cult. If you are looking for an anti-cult activist special guest my Twitter...Read full review »
nattyg1978lovespodcasts via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 06/16/22
Wonderful podcast! Amazing stories of how joy can triumph over trauma.
Larkstar88 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 06/16/22
As an ex JW, the stories on Shunned are so relatable, validating abs therapeutic to listen to. It has helped me to better articulate my own upbringing to others, including my husband. I’m so grateful I found this podcast!
AmbsDi via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 05/09/22
Thank you for this podcast. It has been invaluable in helping in me understand what my sister and family believe and how they are manipulate by this cult. My niece has been shunned by my sister and her family and hearing the stories of other helps me support her as she navigates in the real...Read full review »
Gogetcarter via Apple Podcasts · Great Britain · 01/29/22
Separation is new for me but worth it. I needed this episodes. They are helping tremendously. Thanks!
xpcu via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 12/22/21
Listening to these stories is so healing. Thank you so much for helping people grieve and heal!
Kellybelly0801 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 11/05/21
The host is a wonderful and empathic interviewer. Brave and important stories to hear and to peer behind the veil of religious delusion.
sbemmett via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/26/21
Amazing podcast! Inspirational stories of those who survived traumatic events in their life. As a cult survivor it resonates with me and I enjoy knowing I’m not alone in dealing with the residual effects from cult indoctrination and trauma. Thanks for bringing these stories to the wider public...Read full review »
KLR123010 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/07/21
Wow Mike, this is by far my favorite podcast. My wife was raised as a JW. You and your wonderful guests have made me understand what she has gone through. We have been married for almost 15 years and I feel like I’m closer to her than I ever have been. She has an amazing story and I would love to...Read full review »
Narn-E via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 09/26/21
You’ve come a long way in 4 years, This JW Life and 100 interviews. Congratulations on desiring and designing the life you deserve. It’s time to make our stories everyone’s. Thank you.
coraleighmartin via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 09/25/21
Great interviews! They are helping all of us to keep moving forward!
MommySugar5 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 08/03/21
Thank you for your courage to tell your stories!
theOtherKatie via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 07/04/21
In his ability to draw out insight and meaning while really connecting with the brave storytellers on this podcast.
Shame eater via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 06/26/21
all the episodes are rolling into each other, the same basic plot, the same basic outcomes. The hosts and guests need to take these interviews more seriously. Host, dig deeper. If you take the interview seriously so was your guest. The giggling and laughter during interviews by both host &...Read full review »
BAlisonMarie via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 06/22/21
Damnit man... the TRUTH of these peoples stories hit so close to home!!! With trying to be obedient and acceptable to knowing this is not the TRUTH... these people are telling my story and I love that they are!!! I wish that every JW (including my family) would listen to this so that they can...Read full review »
Tember33 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 05/18/21
Not a witness but enjoy learning about people and their experiences in life, the struggles and the joy they experience in their new life . Also never new how the JW’s were expected to do ? Keep up the good work .
schears via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 03/20/21
I notice if the guest doesn’t believe in GOD then he goes in and starts disrespecting God more. I just think that as a believer it makes it hard to listen; that’s my only problem. Otherwise, I appreciate the stories.
alexandra1994e via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 03/10/21
This is a fascinating listen. I’m not a Jehovah’s Witness and am fortunate enough never to have been involved in the cult. I’m interested in why people follow a particular religion and, even more so, by why they choose to leave it. Every person Interviewed on this podcast has a moving story to...Read full review »
Ffigwit via Apple Podcasts · Great Britain · 02/19/21
Such a great podcast. As I exited the Jehovah’s Witness religion, this podcast has helped me feel not so alone. There is a lot of comfort in that. Keep making more! Love hearing everyone’s stories.
raesvision via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 12/31/20
Love this podcast !!!! ❤️❤️❤️The stories are so relatable and the length is perfect for on the go listening:)
breebreeis2cute via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 12/31/20
This will help you think clearly and help comfort you that you’re not crazy and you’re not the only one if you’ve been seeing issues in the organization.
Senorborritoslover via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 12/04/20
I used to listen to this podcast ALL the time. I know in the beginning there were some episodes featuring people shunned from various religious backgrounds and that’s what I loved about it. I noticed that stopped and now there are only ex JW members, but I wish there was some more variety still!
hullohilly via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 11/27/20
Amazing podcast and great host, there is so much healing in hearing other people’s stories of life in Cults , and I’m eternally grateful for this podcast existing; has helped my fully Wake Up 🙏
Nate34642 via Apple Podcasts · Great Britain · 09/17/20
My heart goes out to these courageous human beings. I am tearing up listening. Host is very compassionate and his responses are so validating to listen to. Keep up the great work.
Tiffanymadhatter via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 09/08/20
Just listened to the one you had my little broski Ramo, and told him that actually help me understand him so much more! I laughed, cried, got mad, just smiled amongst other feelings during it..... Keep up the good work brother! I had to walk away from him at the age of 14 and never understood...Read full review »
Sir G.K. via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 08/27/20
I walked away from this religion 20 years ago after being raised in it. Some things are difficult for me to explain to others without the same background, but these podcasts help a lot. Thank you to everyone for sharing.
FrankT13 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 07/20/20
Love this podcast, I’ve listened to almost all of them. Please ditch the awful song you open with. I understand I can skip it but it’s so cringeworthy, can’t stand it.
wellmef via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 07/17/20
Everyone has a story and those of us with a history in high control groups have unique ones. The host of this show has a great way of bringing out the story of each guest he interviews. Each episode makes you realize how connected we are in this human experience. It is cathartic and healing to...Read full review »
wine.chick via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 03/15/20
I’m not a Witness and before this podcast I admit to knowing nothing about them. Except for the odd kid out in elementary school who sat in the hall for birthday parties, I never have this religion (cult) much thought. The host is fantastic. He has an incredible ability to connect with his...Read full review »
KatyBloch via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/28/20
Thank you for this podcast. I was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses for over 30 years. I was baptized at 15. When I finally broke free from society, I finally knew what it meant to be free. My children finally knew what the “truth” was. That truth was the ability to think for yourself. The truth was...Read full review »
deanamoriarty via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/04/20
Mike, this podcast has been the relieving weight that I did not even realise that I needed. Some of your guests stories have truly rocked me to my core. I have an epic of a story of my own but I’m not sure if I’m ready to speak on a podcast- but I am in complete admiration & I will continue...Read full review »
DP79SS via Apple Podcasts · Australia · 02/02/20
I stumbled on this podcast. It’s just so good-the host, the guests, the narrative. So real and so moving. I’m a psychotherapist I love hearing these stories about people surviving spiritual abuse and discovering themselves. The host handles these difficult subjects with such love and tenderness,...Read full review »
Beware beware via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 01/31/20
Although I’m not from a JW background I find this topic so fascinating. The host is so gentle and profoundly allows his guests to tell their stories in their own way. It’s truly a beautiful podcast and I’m so glad I found it.
Chitownchris via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 01/29/20
Thank you Mike! Thank you for the time, effort, sacrifice you make to the community. You are extraordinary and your effort does not go unnoticed. Your podcast is relatable and has helped me become stronger! Many thanks.
Suzie Tee via Apple Podcasts · Australia · 01/29/20
Jerry’s story is heartbreaking and so real. I must listen for sure! Thank you jerry for sharing your story.
Mom of 3 girly girls via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 01/28/20
it’s a blessing 👍
shun me via Apple Podcasts · Great Britain · 01/28/20
I was never in the JW world or in any high control religious group. I did grow up with a parent who had borderline personality disorder, and I find I have many experiences in common with the brave folks who tell their stories in Shunned. I love that this podcast lays a loving foundation to gently...Read full review »
CoyoteTanguera via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 01/22/20
This podcast is a MUST listen to for Ex Jehovahs Witnesses and other former members of organizations that are now shunned. Michael is a superb interviewer and shows his heart through this amazing Podcast. It's a wonderful spot for hurt people to come and heal through hearing others stories....Read full review »
Anilam18 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 01/14/20
These personal stories of love hope and life after being involved in the horrific life of a cult are inspiring. Thank you for bringing these stories out into the open and helping people share their stories.
Ginawired iPad user via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/29/19
When one goes through traumatic religious experiences the emotional damage inflicted can be severe. Humans who are shunned have a higher rate of suicide. This podcast allows those silenced to tell their stories and share hope to others in the same situations. You concretely show us we are not...Read full review »
jenwright224 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 09/19/19
I find these stories very interesting. I too was raised as a JW and can relate on so many levels
DinoTud via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 07/12/19
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