Olivia Harding
This podcast is interview styles of survivors, members and ex members of the IFB community discussing the good the bad and the ugly of the IFB. IFB stands for Independent Fundamental Baptist.
May 13
In this powerful conclusion to Season 2, we focus on a pivotal chapter in Sabrina’s journey—her time at Reclamation Ranch, a troubled teen facility founded by Jack Patterson, a man with deep and ongoing ties to the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) movement. This episode uncovers how Patterson’s influence connects back to the roots of our Season 2 Lester Roloff series, continuing the legacy of abuse masked as reform. While Sabrina has shared her full story on platforms like Preacher Boys and many others, this episode is specifically dedicated to the era of her life at Reclamation Ranch and the trauma she endured under Patterson’s leadership. Now an unwavering advocate for change, Sabrina uses her voice to fight for those still silenced by the troubled teen industry. Join us as we close out Season 2 with truth, strength, and a call for justice.
May 6
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Shawn, a former student of Hyles-Anderson College who has since become a licensed therapist. Shawn opens up about his time within the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) movement, the impact of legalism and spiritual manipulation, and the long road to healing and freedom. Now using his voice and expertise to help others, Shawn shares unique insights into the trauma many survivors face—and how true recovery is possible. Whether you’re deconstructing your own past or simply seeking to understand, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and hope.
Apr 29
To wrap up the Hyles series, Olivia sits down with her next guest, Grace — the most recent graduate to share her experience at Hyles-Anderson College. Grace attended from 2022 to 2024 and offers a rare, up-to-date look at what life inside the institution is like today. Trust us — you do not want to miss this. As we listen, it’s clear that decades of abuse and toxic systems are still deeply rooted. Grace opens up about the moment the blinders fell off for her, the dangerous realities of the Bus Ministry while witnessing in Chicago neighborhoods, and the intense pressure placed on women to conform to narrow definitions of what it means to be a “good Christian woman.” Her story is a powerful reminder that while time moves on, the deep issues within the IFB world remain
Apr 22
In today’s episode, Olivia is joined once again by Robyn as they continue our Hyles Series and take a hard look at where First Baptist Church of Hammond stands today. After the arrest of Jack Schaap, John Wilkerson became the new pastor — but has anything truly changed? While some claim Wilkerson has a heart for survivors, this episode uncovers unsettling truths that suggest otherwise. We discuss how Wilkerson has maintained a culture of silence, cover-ups, and continued proximity of predators to vulnerable individuals on campus. Is he a reformer, or just another wolf in sheep’s clothing? You don’t want to miss this conversation. Also — if you haven’t yet, be sure to check out Robyn’s book and listen to her full story growing up in this environment and attending Hyles-Anderson College in Season 1, Episode 4. Her personal experience adds powerful context to everything we discuss today.
Apr 15
In this powerful follow-up episode, Alissa returns to share more deeply about her experience with Jack Schaap, the former pastor of First Baptist Church of Hammond. She opens up about the subtle and calculated grooming she endured, the manipulation that blurred boundaries, and the lasting impact it left on her life. Alissa also reflects on where she is today in her healing journey, offering hope and solidarity to other survivors who may feel alone in their stories.
Apr 8
In this episode, Olivia sits down with Amanda—an advocate and survivor you may recognize from the Let Us Prey documentary. Amanda has continued to bravely speak out, shedding light on the abuse and cover-ups within the IFB, particularly at First Baptist Church of Hammond (FBCH), Hyles-Anderson College (HAC), and Hammond Baptist (HB). Born and raised in this environment, Amanda opens up about what life was really like behind the scenes. She shares disturbing insights into how FBCH operated, including how massive scandals were routinely swept under the rug. From the manipulation in the bus ministry to shocking scare tactics—like the time she was pressured into swallowing live goldfish—Amanda’s story reveals the deeply rooted control and fear used to maintain power.
Apr 1
In this special introduction to our latest series, Olivia sets the stage for an in-depth look at Jack Hyles, his family, and the empire he built at First Baptist Church of Hammond (FBCOH). This episode explores the foundation of his influence, the deep-rooted scandals that shook FBCOH, and the role of organizations like the Christian Law Association (CLA) in protecting churches instead of survivors. From the shocking cases of Jack Schaap and Dave Hyles to the culture of silence within the IFB, Olivia breaks down the layers of controversy surrounding this powerful institution. Featuring archival clips and firsthand accounts, this episode lays the groundwork for a gripping series that uncovers the truth behind the pulpit.
Mar 28
To conclude The Bethel Files series, Olivia sits back down for Part 2 with Chad Miller. In this powerful episode, Chad and Olivia discuss the full timeline of Bethel, the struggles 17-year-old Chad faced with his mental health at the time, and how abandonment issues continue to impact him today. Chad shares deeply about his experience at Reclamation Ranch, founded by Jack Peterson—a significant figure in the IFB and Teen Training International (TTI) world. He doesn’t hold back as he details firsthand what life was like at the ranch and the lasting effects it had on him. The conversation also explores Chad’s journey filming Troubled Teen Industry on HBO Max, including an emotional reunion with another Bethel survivor. He also goes further into the heartbreaking story of Bradley, one of the individuals featured in the documentary. Don’t miss this raw and eye-opening conclusion to The Bethel Files series.