Best Growing Up In Polygamy Podcasts (2026)

1
Kody and Meri’s Intense Conversation | Basement Wives & Spiritual Releases SW S20 E14 Reaction 30:17

Play Pause

2h ago30:17

30:17

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 i…

1
Life Inside the FLDS: Growing Up in the Polygamy Cult When Your Uncle is Warren Jeffs 36:46

8d ago36:46

36:46

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In this conversation, Lisa Sugarman and Natasha J Layton delve into Natasha's experiences growing up in the FLDS, a polygamous cult. They discuss the unique dynamics of her family life, the influence of Warren Jeffs, and the emotional climate of th…

1
Grief During the Holidays: Carrying Loss, Guilt, and Hope Into the New Year 32:49

13h ago32:49

32:49

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In this heartfelt conversation, Lisa and Natasha explore the complexities of navigating grief during the holiday season, particularly as the New Year approaches. They discuss the emotional challenges of celebrating while mourning loved ones, the gu…

1
Kody’s Apology Tour: David Speaks Up, Meri’s Next, and Janelle’s Spiritual Release | SW S20 E13 23:45

17h ago23:45

23:45

In this episode, we react to Kody’s apology to Christine — a conversation that quickly shifts when David steps in to advocate for his wife. David pushes Kody to focus less on his own feelings and more on repairing relationships with his children, something Kody clearly isn’t comfortable hearing. We also talk about what’s next in Kody’s ongoing “apo…

1
Surviving the Financial Stress of the Holidays 31:55

1d ago31:55

31:55

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In this conversation, Lisa Sugarman and Natasha J Layton discuss the various pressures surrounding the holiday season, particularly focusing on the financial burdens that many families face. They explore the emotional toll of trying to keep up with…

1
Kody Starts Apologizing to Christine… | S20 Ep 12 Reaction 23:04

14d ago23:04

23:04

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 ju…

1
Kody Finally Apologizes to Janelle | SW S20 Ep11 Reaction 19:44

15d ago19:44

19:44

In this week’s Sister Wives Season 20 Episode 11 reaction, we break down Kody’s long-awaited apology to Janelle — and why she was the one he chose to talk to first. We talk about the grace, patience, and kindness Janelle shows him in this moment, and what it says about their history and the dynamics in the Brown family. We also dive into Meri’s pai…

1
When Holidays Hurt: Saying No, Setting Boundaries, and Surviving 33:18

15d ago33:18

33:18

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In this heartfelt conversation, Lisa and Natasha explore the complexities of navigating the holiday season, particularly for those dealing with grief and mental health challenges. They discuss the societal pressures to appear joyful, the impact of …

1
Self-Serving Apologies & Spiritual Callings | Sister Wives S20 Ep10 Reaction 23:23

19d ago23:23

23:23

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 comfor…

1
Coyote Pass Cold Shoulder & Kody’s ‘I Want a Relationship With My Kids’ Claim | Sister Wives S20 E9 20:55

22d ago20:55

20:55

In this week’s Sister Wives Season 20 Episode 9, we react to the Coyote Pass standoff where Kody and Robyn can’t even be bothered to say hi or goodbye to Janelle and Meri. We also talk about Christine and David’s spa day, and how Christine is continuing to grow and learn communication in a monogamous relationship — something completely new after de…

1
Surviving Family Abuse: Challenges and Healing 31:16

22d ago31:16

31:16

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In this episode, Lisa and Natasha discuss the complexities of family abuse, particularly within polygamous communities. Natasha shares her personal experiences growing up in the FLDS polygamy cult as the niece of Warren Jeffs, highlighting the hidd…

1
Grieving During the Holidays: How to Navigate Thanksgiving After Loss 30:12

29d ago30:12

30:12

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide & grief and may be triggering. Episode Summary In anticipation of Thanksgiving, Lisa and Natasha dive into the complicated intersection of grief and gratitude during the holiday season—especially around the holidays, when the world feels hyper-focused on joy, family, and celebration. They talk openly about ho…

1
Coyote Pass Awkward Car Standoff & Scruffy-Beard Debates 😂 | S20 Ep 8 Reaction 30:06

1M ago30:06

30:06

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-…

1
Surviving Sexual Abuse: The Hidden Reality Behind Closed Doors 33:46

1M ago33:46

33:46

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In this episode, Lisa and Natasha sit down for one of the most honest and emotionally layered conversations of the season as they explore what it really means to survive childhood sexual abuse. Natasha opens up about her experience as a survivor of…

1
Mormon Dances, Weddings & ‘Enduring to the End’ | Sister Wives S20 Ep 7 Reaction 40:20

1M ago40:20

40:20

In this week’s episode of Sister Wives, we couldn’t help but notice how uncomfortable things felt between Kody and Robyn — especially during those dancing moments. It brought back memories of Mormon church dances and wedding receptions, including our own, and how deeply those experiences reflect the culture we grew up in. We also dive into how poly…

1
Choosing Life: Natasha’s Story Part 2 — What Survival Really Looks Like After Trauma 38:46

1M ago38:46

38:46

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In this deeply moving episode, the hosts discuss the raw realities of survival after trauma, focusing on Natasha's experiences with suicide attempts and the profound impact of losing five brothers to suicide. The conversation explores the complexit…

1
Reunions, Courtship & Kody Owning His Failure? Our Sister Wives S20E6 Breakdown 33:19

2M ago33:19

33:19

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 t…

1
Surviving the Unthinkable: Natasha’s Story of Suicide Loss, Abuse, and Life After the FLDS 30:51

2M ago30:51

30:51

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In this episode of The Survivors, Lisa Sugarman introduces her new co-host Natasha J. Layton, who shares her harrowing story of sexual abuse, religious trauma, domestic abuse, and survival after growing up in the FLDS cult as the niece of Warren Je…

1
Kody Makes Aurora’s Relationship About HIM?! | Sister Wives S20E5 25:38

2M ago25:38

25:38

In this episode of Sister Wives, we react to the Browns’ family traditions that have completely fallen apart — just like the family itself. What used to bring everyone together is now divided between the parents, leaving the kids caught in the middle of what’s left of those memories. We also talk about the painfully awkward moment when Kody makes A…

1
The Survivors Season 3 Premiere with Lisa Sugarman & Natasha J. Layton: A New Chapter of Survival 27:57

2M ago27:57

27:57

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering. Episode Summary In Episode 1 of Season 3, Lisa is joined by Natasha J. Layton, the new cohost of The Survivors. And together, they explore their shared experiences with suicide, grief, and childhood trauma and the profound impact of loss. The niece of Warren Jeffs…

1
Meri’s Dating, Paedon’s Moving, and Kody’s Still Blaming Everyone Else | Sister Wives S20E4 28:33

2M ago28:33

28:33

In this episode of Sister Wives, so much unfolds — Paedon makes the big decision to move to North Carolina, Meri keeps dipping her toes into the online dating world, and Kody continues to shift the blame for his failed plural marriage onto his wives. Meanwhile, he admits that he was focused on keeping Robyn “safely kept,” revealing once again where…

1
Christine Brown Woolley on Growing Up in Polygamy & Her New Book Sister Wife 43:49

3M ago43:49

43:49

In this interview, we sit down with Christine Brown Woolley from Sister Wives to talk about her roots in the AUB (Apostolic United Brethren) polygamist church and what life was really like growing up in that environment. We also dive into what it was like for Christine to write such a personal and vulnerable book, Sister Wife, and how revisiting th…

1
Another Brown Family Move?! Meri’s Paint Night & Tornado Chaos! 🌪️ | Sister Wives S20E3 30:07

3M ago30:07

30:07

In this episode of Sister Wives Season 20, we react to Meri hosting a paint night as she continues to build a new life and community for herself. Meanwhile, Tony and Mykelti find themselves caught in a hail storm and tornado — because nothing with the Browns ever goes smoothly! And of course… Kody and Robyn are moving again. Join us as we dive into…

1
Meri’s Painful Speed Date & Kody’s Escape Plan | Sister Wives Season 20 Episode 2 Review 21:47

3M ago21:47

21:47

In this episode of Sister Wives Season 20, things get painfully awkward as Meri dives into the world of speed dating — and we can’t help but feel every cringey moment. Meanwhile, the Brown kids are one by one heading to North Carolina, making it feel like the family is rebuilding far away from the chaos. And just when we think Kody and Robyn might …

1
Sister Wives Is BACK! Season 20 Premiere & Kody’s Shocking Wife Admission 40:27

3M ago40:27

40:27

Sister Wives is finally back for Season 20, and the premiere does not disappoint! In Episode 1, tensions are higher than ever as Kody makes a shocking admission — he would only consider taking on another wife for sex. We break down the explosive premiere, the state of the family, and what this means for the future of the Browns.Join us as we review…

1
The Survivors Podcast Season 2 Recap: Powerful Stories of Suicide Loss, Healing & Resilience 33:30

3M ago33:30

33:30

This week, Lisa and Gretchen reflect on the journey through Season 2—15 powerful episodes filled with grief, advocacy, healing, and raw conversations around suicide, mental health, and support. From language shifts and identity to rituals and support systems, this finale is a heartfelt recap of the stories and lessons that have shaped this season. …

1
Scientology’s War on Mental Health & Journalists | Aftermath S1E8 Reaction 21:19

3M ago21:19

21:19

In this episode, we react to Scientology and the Aftermath Season 1, Episode 8, which dives into the Church of Scientology’s troubling stance on mental health and its aggressive tactics against journalists. We discuss how Scientology views psychiatry as an enemy, the harmful impact this has on members who need real help, and the shocking stories of…

1
Caregiver Burnout: How To Support Others Without Losing Ourselves 28:46

3M ago28:46

28:46

In this episode of The Survivors Podcast, Lisa and Gretchen get candid about caregiver burnout—the exhaustion, guilt, and compassion fatigue that often accompany supporting others. Together, they explore personal stories, lessons learned, and practical ways to take care of yourself while caring for someone else. 🎥 Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube…

1
How Miscavige Changes the Rules: Auditing Training & Disconnection in Scientology 25:15

3M ago25:15

25:15

In this video, we react to Scientology and the Aftermath Season 1 Episode 7, where Leah Remini and Mike Rinder expose the devastating effects of Scientology’s disconnection policy and the pressure of training for auditing. We share our perspective on how David Miscavige constantly changes the rules to tighten control, keeping members in a cycle of …

1
Social Media, Suicide Prevention & Mental Health 30:59

3M ago30:59

30:59

In this powerful episode, Lisa and Gretchen unpack the complex relationship between social media and suicide prevention. From uplifting connections to harmful comparisons, they explore how our digital spaces can either support or sabotage mental health. 🎥 Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube: A video version of this episode is available here: YouTube…

1
Ex-Polygamist Reacts: Scientology’s Fake Stats & Golden Era Productions 20:39

4M ago20:39

20:39

In this video, we react to Scientology and the Aftermath Episode 6, which dives deep into Golden Era Productions — Scientology’s high-budget media hub responsible for creating massive events, flashy productions, and inflated statistics. From staged celebrations to fabricated growth numbers, we break down how the church uses Golden Era to keep membe…

1
World Suicide Prevention Day: Global Solutions & Local Actions to Save Lives 25:11

4M ago25:11

25:11

In this moving episode released on World Suicide Prevention Day, Gretchen and Lisa open up about the global crisis of suicide and its far-reaching ripple effects on families, communities, and cultures. Together, they share survivor stories, lessons from around the world, and practical ways we can each be part of prevention and healing. 🎥 Watch the …

1
The FLDS Prophet and Scientology’s Pope | Parallels in Power 25:36

4M ago25:36

25:36

In this episode, we dive into Scientology and the Aftermath Season 1, Episode 5, and explore the striking similarities between two powerful and controversial leaders: Warren Jeffs of the FLDS Church and David Miscavige of Scientology. Sam, who grew up in the FLDS under Warren Jeffs’ leadership, shares his firsthand perspective on the control, manip…

1
National Suicide Prevention Month: Awareness, Action & the Power of Connection 30:02

4M ago30:02

30:02

In this candid episode, Lisa and Gretchen reunite to mark National Suicide Prevention Month with an unfiltered conversation about the realities of mental health struggles. Together, they explore the power of connection, the critical importance of vulnerability, and how small acts, like a text, a call, or asking “How are you really?”—can literally s…

1
Breaking Free from Scientology | @JennaMiscavige Interview Part 2 56:05

4M ago56:05

56:05

In Part 2 of our exclusive interview, Jenna Miscavige, the niece of Scientology leader David Miscavige, shares how she found the strength to break free from Scientology’s control. After a childhood separated from her parents, years in the Cadet Org, and joining the Sea Org at only 12 years old, Jenna began to question the system she had been raised…

1
Growing Up Under Scientology’s Control w/ @JennaMiscavige 1:32:37

4M ago1:32:37

1:32:37

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Jenna Miscavige, the niece of Scientology leader David Miscavige, to hear her powerful story of growing up inside one of the world’s most secretive organizations. Jenna shares how, at just two years old, she was separated from her parents, who were both Sea Org members, and grew up with almost no time w…

1
Creating Rituals After Suicide Loss: How Daily Habits Can Ground Us in Grief 25:38

4M ago25:38

25:38

In this heartfelt episode of The Survivors Podcast, Lisa and Gretchen explore how rituals help us stay connected after suicide loss. Together, they share personal practices, lessons learned, and ways to honor loved ones while continuing to heal. 🎥 Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube: A video version of this episode is available here: YouTube: https:…

1
Escaping Scientology | Claire Headley’s Story of Survival & Freedom 1:42:31

4M ago1:42:31

1:42:31

In this video, we sit down with Claire Headley from the YouTube channel @Blownforgood to hear her powerful story of growing up inside Scientology. Claire shares what it was like to be raised in the church, experience the cadet program, and even sign FIVE different billion year contracts with the Sea Org.Her journey takes us through the reality of l…

1
Reaction to Scientology and the Aftermath S1 E4 - Answering Questions 26:40

5M ago26:40

26:40

In this video, we react to Scientology: The Aftermath Season 1 Episode 4, “Answering Questions.” Leah Remini and Mike Rinder take on tough questions about Scientology—and as ex-members of high-demand religions ourselves, we couldn’t help but notice the striking similarities to other groups.From polygamous sects like the FLDS and AUB, to mainstream …

1
How Therapy & Support Groups Help Heal After Suicide Loss 30:06

4M ago30:06

30:06

This episode dives into the transformative power of therapy and support groups when navigating the grief of suicide loss or surviving a suicide attempt. Hosts Lisa Sugarman and Gretchen Schoser open up about their personal experiences and highlight the safe, accessible mental health resources that help us keep moving forward—even on our hardest day…

1
When Faith Becomes Political | Our Reaction to Shiny Happy People S2E3 22:07

5M ago22:07

22:07

In this video, we react to Shiny Happy People Season 2, Episode 3, where the focus shifts to how many youth in strict religious groups were taught that progressive values were a threat to Christianity and a sign of the “end times.” We share our own experiences of being raised in environments where faith framed our political views.We also talk about…

1
Scientology’s Pricey ‘Bridge to Total Freedom’ | Aftermath Ep3 Reaction 18:52

5M ago18:52

18:52

* We apologize for the audio! Our mics didn't connect properly, and this was the best we could do in editing😓*In this episode, we react to Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath Season 1, Episode 3, diving into the shocking costs of Scientology’s programs and the mandatory books members are pressured to buy. We break down their “Bridge to Freed…

1
National Wellness Month & Grief: Tiny Habits for Lasting Strength 25:53

5M ago25:53

25:53

In this heartfelt episode of The Survivors Podcast, Lisa and Gretchen delve into the simple yet powerful wellness habits that keep us grounded, especially when life feels overwhelming. From gratitude practices and breathing techniques to setting boundaries and rediscovering joy, they share practical, achievable ways to nurture your mental, emotiona…

1
Part 2 of Growing Up in Scientology vs Growing Up In Polygamy | Our Crossover Conversation 1:13:37

5M ago1:13:37

1:13:37

In this video, we dive into the similarities and differences between Scientology with @GrowingUpInScientology and Mormonism, exploring key Scientology concepts like Dianetics and auditing, and comparing them to Mormon beliefs and practices. We also discuss the controversial issue of family separation and disconnection within both groups, drawing fr…

1
Growing Up in Scientology vs Growing Up In Polygamy | Our Crossover Conversation (Part 1) 1:18:50

5M ago1:18:50

1:18:50

In this special crossover episode, we sit down with Aaron from @growingupinscientology to explore the fascinating (and sometimes shocking) parallels between Scientology and Mormonism. As former insiders from two very different high-demand religions, we compare our upbringings, teachings, authority structures, and how each religion handles questioni…

1
Survivor Guilt After Suicide Loss: How to Reframe, Heal, and Let Go 29:03

5M ago29:03

29:03

In this raw and emotional episode, Lisa and Gretchen unpack the deep and often misunderstood feeling of guilt that follows suicide loss and suicide attempts. Through vulnerable storytelling and insight, they show how guilt can be reframed into grace, healing, and renewed strength. 🎥 Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube: A video version of this episod…

1
LDS Mission vs Teen Mania Honor Academy: Shiny Happy People Reaction S2 Ep2 32:49

5M ago32:49

32:49

In this video, we react to Shiny Happy People Season 2, Episode 2 and explore the Teen Mania Honor Academy—comparing it to Sam’s experience serving a full-time LDS mission in Chile.We share what both programs had in common, from the structure and intense focus on obedience and self-discipline, to the unique ways young adults were shaped by their ti…

1
The Cost of Leaving Scientology | Our Reaction to Mike Rinder’s Story in Aftermath S1 Ep2 23:48

5M ago23:48

23:48

In this video, we react to Season 1, Episode 2 of Scientology and the Aftermath, which dives deep into the emotional and psychological toll that comes with leaving the Church of Scientology—specifically through the powerful story of Mike Rinder. Once a top executive within Scientology, Mike left the church and has since been labeled a “suppressive …

1
The Hidden Trauma of Suicide Secrecy: Grieving in Reverse and Finding Truth 30:54

5M ago30:54

30:54

What happens when the truth about a loved one’s suicide is revealed decades later? In this profoundly moving episode, Lisa opens up about her own story of “grieving in reverse” after learning that her father's death wasn’t what she had believed for 35 years. 🎥 Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube: A video version of this episode is available here: 👉 …

1
Reacting to Shiny Happy People Season 2 Ep1 | Teen Mania vs LDS EFY 34:44

5M ago34:44

34:44

In this video, we react to Shiny Happy People: Season 2 and its deep dive into the Teen Mania youth camps. As we watched, we couldn’t help but notice how much it reminded us of our own experiences at LDS EFY (Especially For Youth) camps.While the intentions behind these programs may differ, there are some surprising similarities in the way they ins…