"From Purity to Snakes: Melissa Duge Spiers on Shedding Religious Skin"

In this groundbreaking episode, Terah and Kaily sit down with Melissa Duge Spiers, a renowned influencer also known as the "Glory Whole." Renowned for her unapologetic exploration of faith, feminism, and freedom, her articles are frequently featured in the Huffington Post.

Diving deep into the heart of contemporary religious phenomena, Melissa takes us on a journey from the shackles of purity culture to the enigmatic world of snake handling worship, challenging conventional beliefs and confronting the shadows of religious abuse.

The episode kicks off with Melissa's personal encounter with purity culture, a movement that has shaped the lives of countless individuals within evangelical communities. Through her lens, we explore the profound impacts of this ideology on self-image, sexuality, and personal freedom, shedding light on the internal conflicts and liberation that follow the pursuit of purity.

Venturing into more obscure territory, Melissa shares her experience with the tradition of snake handling as a form of worship. This practice, rooted in a literal interpretation of scripture, serves as a stark emblem of faith's extremities. Melissa's reflections provoke a broader contemplation of faith, risk, and devotion, inviting listeners to question the boundaries of their own beliefs.

The conversation takes a bold turn as Melissa recounts her experiences visiting brothels, an endeavor that illuminates the complex interplay between sexuality, morality, and religion. Through her eyes, we witness the human stories behind these establishments, challenging preconceived notions and highlighting the often overlooked humanity within these spaces.

Finally, Melissa addresses the dark spectrum of religious abuse, sharing poignant stories from those who have suffered and survived. Her insights into the mechanisms and impacts of such abuse offer a beacon of hope and a call to action for empathy, understanding, and change within religious communities.

This episode is a compelling tapestry of stories, reflections, and revelations with Melissa Duge Spiers at the helm, guiding us through the murky waters of faith, freedom, and the quest for truth. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of what it means to question, to believe, and to evolve beyond the confines of conventional spirituality.

Music used by permission from The Deadbeat Cousins, "Don't Tell Me No Lies." Visit them at www.deadbeatcousins.com

All audio is owned by Terah and Kaily at the Tell Me Lies Podcast and may not be used without express written permission from the podcast hosts.

Visit Terah at terahnoel.com for more information on recovering from religious trauma and narcissistic abuse.