Alissa's Awake

Cult Expert Dr. Steven Hassan Reveals How Jehovah’s Witnesses Use Mind Control

Alissa — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

How do cults control your mind without you even realizing it? And how can you recognize the signs of psychological manipulation within high control religions like Jehovah’s Witnesses?

In this powerful episode of Alissa’s Awake, I sit down with world renowned cult expert Dr. Steven Hassan, creator of the BITE Model of Authoritarian Control, bestselling author of Combating Cult Mind Control, and former member of the Unification Church (Moonies).

With nearly 50 years of experience studying cults, coercive control, undue influence, and psychological manipulation, Dr. Hassan shares his personal experience of being recruited into a cult and explains how intelligent, well meaning people can become trapped in high control organizations without recognizing the manipulation happening around them.

As a fourth generation former Jehovah’s Witness who spent 35 years inside the organization, this conversation was especially meaningful to me.

Dr. Hassan also shares why examining other high control groups can be one of the most effective ways to recognize manipulation within your own religion.

Whether you're a current Jehovah’s Witness beginning to question the organization, a former JW navigating religious trauma, someone with loved ones involved in a high control group, or simply interested in the psychology of cult mind control, this conversation offers valuable insight into the power of undue influence and the importance of freedom of mind.

"I Was Raised to Be a Jehovah’s Witness Wife, Married at 19 to Escape" | Amber’s Story

Alissa — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 14:31:13 GMT

In this powerful episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, Amber shares her deeply personal story of growing up in the Jehovah’s Witness organization, enduring religious trauma, navigating marriage and motherhood at a young age, and ultimately being disfellowshipped at just 23 years old.

From childhood isolation and punishment justified through scripture to the intense expectations placed on young Jehovah’s Witness women, Amber opens up about the emotional toll of growing up in a high-control religion.

She also reveals the invasive questions Jehovah’s Witness elders asked about her marriage, the circumstances surrounding her disfellowshipping, and the devastating reality of losing nearly everyone she had ever known.

After leaving the organization, Amber found herself navigating a world she had never been prepared for. Her journey included homelessness, unhealthy relationships, separation from her children, and years of rebuilding her life.

Now, more than two decades after leaving the Jehovah’s Witnesses, Amber is reclaiming her voice and sharing her experiences in hopes of helping others who may feel trapped, isolated, or alone.

❤️ If you are a current or former Jehovah’s Witness, questioning your beliefs, or healing from religious trauma, you are not alone.

"I Was a Devoted Jehovah's Witness Pioneer, While Secretly Enduring Abuse" | Rose's Story

Alissa — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

In this powerful episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, I sit down with Rose, a former Jehovah’s Witness who dedicated her life to serving the organization. From regular pioneering and volunteering on Bethel construction projects to supporting Kingdom Hall builds and congregation activities, Rose was fully committed to what she believed was “the truth.”

But behind her devotion and smiling face, Rose was silently enduring years of domestic abuse, manipulation, and control within her marriage.

When she finally turned to Jehovah’s Witness elders for help, the response left her feeling even more isolated. Despite everything she was experiencing, Rose continued to believe that remaining faithful, being a submissive wife, and trusting Jehovah would eventually make things better.

Rose’s story raises important questions about how the Jehovah’s Witness organization handles domestic violence, the expectations placed on women, and what happens when victims speak out.

Most importantly, her story is one of survival, courage, healing, and finding freedom after leaving a high-control religion.

If you are a current or former Jehovah’s Witness, an abuse survivor, or someone questioning the teachings of the Watchtower organization, I hope this conversation reminds you that you are not alone.

❤️ Thank you to Rose for trusting me with her story and for speaking out so others may feel less alone.

⚠️ CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes discussions of domestic violence, abuse, coercive control, and suicide. Please take care while watching.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence in the United States, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Jehovah’s Witness Pioneer Starts Asking Questions, Then Gets Shunned | Deanna's Story

Alissa — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, I sit down with Deanna, a former Jehovah’s Witness who was baptized at just 10 years old, graduated high school early to begin regular pioneering at 16, and spent six years dedicating her life to the organization.

Deanna wasn't someone who struggled to follow the rules. She genuinely believed she was serving Jehovah and doing everything expected of her. From pioneering and attending a foreign language congregation to participating in international conventions, she was fully committed to the Jehovah’s Witness faith.

But when the COVID-19 pandemic brought her busy spiritual routine to a halt, she finally had time to think, research, and ask questions about Watchtower teachings.

What started as personal Bible study quickly became a journey of questioning everything she had been taught.

When Deanna approached the elders with her concerns, hoping for honest, Bible based answers, she was instead accused of entertaining apostate arguments. One elder even warned her that Satan would chew her up and spit her out.

Ultimately, Deanna made the difficult decision to disassociate from Jehovah’s Witnesses. Almost overnight, the people she had known and loved for years began shunning her, including members of her own family.

Deanna’s story highlights an important reality: Leaving Jehovah’s Witnesses isn't always about wanting to live differently. Sometimes, it's simply about wanting honest answers.

"I Was Raised in an Abusive Jehovah’s Witness Home" | Sarah's Story

Alissa — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Alissa’s Awake, Sarah shares her story of growing up in a Jehovah’s Witness household marked by abuse, fear, instability, and silence.

Sarah opens up about what life was like behind closed doors, the role Jehovah’s Witness elders played when her family sought help, and the painful realization that the congregation she had been taught was a place of safety wasn't able to protect her family.

She also shares her experience with disfellowshipping, an abusive marriage, becoming a mother, questioning Jehovah’s Witness teachings, and eventually finding the courage to leave and rebuild her life.

But this story is about more than what Sarah survived. It’s about finding your voice after spending years believing you weren't allowed to have one.

Today, Sarah is using that voice to speak openly about her experiences and to remind others that they deserve to be heard.

Jehovah’s Witness Elders Knew About Her Abuser | Gina's Story

Alissa — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 14:19:39 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, Gina shares her story of surviving childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and eventually confronting her alleged abuser in front of Jehovah’s Witness elders. She describes what happened when she spoke up, the response she says she received from the elders, and how the man she accused was later privately reproved and returned to congregation responsibilities.

Gina also opens up about growing up as an elder’s daughter, being baptized at only nine years old, experiencing homelessness while still a Jehovah’s Witness, struggling with her mental health, and eventually beginning the difficult process of questioning and leaving the organization.

This conversation contains discussions of childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, suicidal ideation, and other potentially distressing subjects. Please take care while watching.

"Being a Jehovah’s Witness Was Ruining My Life" | Crystal's Story

Alissa — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 16:42:53 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, Crystal shares her powerful ExJW story of growing up in the Jehovah’s Witness organization, being pressured into baptism at 17, experiencing disfellowshipping and shunning just for questioning, navigating a controlling marriage, and eventually realizing she could no longer live a life that wasn’t authentic to who she was.

Crystal opens up about growing up surrounded by fear and control, feeling like she could never measure up, being discouraged from pursuing the life and education she wanted, and experiencing the devastating isolation that can come with leaving Jehovah’s Witnesses. She also shares the painful impact her exit had on her family and children and what it took to rebuild her life outside the organization.
But Crystal’s story is also one of resilience. After leaving, she pursued an education, built a successful career, created a life on her own terms, and discovered just how much was possible outside the world she had once been taught to fear.

If you are a Jehovah’s Witness questioning your faith, a former Jehovah’s Witness rebuilding after leaving, or someone trying to understand the experiences of ExJWs, I hope Crystal’s story reminds you just how powerful it can be to hear from someone who has walked this road before.

"I Came Out Gay at 19 & Was Forced to Leave Jehovah’s Witnesses" | Diana's Story

Alissa — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 20:42:09 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, Diana shares her powerful story of growing up as a born in Jehovah’s Witness, realizing from a young age that she was attracted to girls, and trying to suppress that part of herself while living under the teachings and expectations of the organization.

Diana talks openly about the pressure she experienced as a young Jehovah’s Witness, the fear surrounding homosexuality in the organization, homeschooling and isolation, baptism at just 11 years old, and the struggle of feeling like she could never be “spiritual enough.”

Eventually, Diana reached a point where she could no longer hide who she was. At 19, she came out to her family and made the decision to leave Jehovah’s Witnesses so she could live authentically and pursue the woman she loved. She was ultimately given a month to leave home and face life outside the organization.

But this isn't just a story about what she lost.
It's a story about what she found.

If you're young, scared, questioning, or wondering whether there is a life for you outside of the organization, I hope Diana's story reminds you that you are not alone, you are not broken, and there can be a life waiting for you outside of the fear.

"I Left the Jehovah’s Witnesses at 17, 25 Years Later I’m Finally Healing" | Jessie’s Story

Alissa — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 15:51:49 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, I sit down with Jessie to hear her story of growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness, leaving the organization at just 17 years old, and discovering that walking away physically was only the beginning of her journey.

Jessie shares what it was like growing up with intense fear surrounding Satan, demons, Armageddon, sin, and feeling inherently unworthy. She also opens up about the pressure placed on girls and women within the Jehovah’s Witness organization, learning to distrust her own intuition, and the impact that religious conditioning had on her identity.

One of the biggest turning points in Jessie’s awakening came through a friendship she formed in high school with someone who was coming out as gay. Seeing the kindness and humanity of someone she had been taught could not fit into her understanding of God forced her to question everything she had been taught about love, God, and salvation.

After leaving, Jessie threw herself into academia and built a completely new life. But years later, she began recognizing how much religious trauma from her childhood was still affecting her. She shares openly about perfectionism, unhealthy coping mechanisms, spirituality, and what it has looked like to finally begin healing decades after leaving.

Raised in Brooklyn During the Bethel Era: My Life as a Jehovah’s Witness | Christina's Story

Alissa — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of ExJW Women Speak Out, Christina shares what it was really like growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness in Brooklyn, surrounded by the influence of Jehovah’s Witnesses Bethel. She opens up about being abused as a child, the congregation and elders being aware of what was happening, and the pressure she experienced to maintain the image of a “perfect” Witness family.

At just 14 years old, Christina was pressured into baptism and expected to make what she describes as an adult, lifelong commitment. As she grew older, she began questioning the organization, its teachings, and the way Jehovah’s Witnesses handled serious issues, including child abuse.

Eventually, Christina was disfellowshipped after refusing to continue living according to the organization’s expectations. What followed was devastating: rejection from her family, being treated differently inside her own home, and ultimately finding herself seeking help at a women’s shelter.

"I Grew Up in a Strict and Controlled Jehovah’s Witness Household" | Leslie's Story

Alissa — Sun, 13 Sep 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, I sit down with Leslie as she shares her story of growing up Jehovah’s Witness and living under strict religious rules that shaped nearly every part of her childhood and adult life.

Leslie was raised in a Jehovah’s Witness family where friendships, dating, education, entertainment, clothing, and even the people she was allowed to associate with were heavily restricted. She wasn’t allowed to attend traditional middle or high school, was discouraged from pursuing the things she loved, and became a regular pioneer at just 13 years old..

One of the most powerful parts of Leslie’s story is what happened when she was struggling with her mental health. After receiving treatment, she was called to meet with the elders, who focused on her association with a non-Jehovah’s Witness rather than her mental health and wellbeing.

Leslie’s story is a powerful reminder that leaving a high control religion isn't simply about changing your beliefs. For many former Jehovah’s Witnesses, it means learning how to make your own decisions, build relationships, pursue an education or career, and finally experience the freedom you were denied growing up.

Christian Purity Culture: The Pressure to Be a “Good Woman” | Grace Sims Story

Alissa — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, I sit down with Grace to talk about growing up deeply religious, navigating Christian purity culture, questioning the beliefs she was raised with, and ultimately learning to trust herself again.

Grace grew up in Christian communities and later spent years involved in missions work and ministry environments. As she got older, she began questioning the expectations, leadership structures, and beliefs she had once accepted without question.

Her journey eventually led her to deconstruct her faith and step away from organized religion while still maintaining a sense of spirituality.

We also talk about Grace's short film The Country They Call Life, which explores a woman's struggle between her religious upbringing and a pregnancy decision. The film was inspired in part by Grace's own lived experiences and was created to encourage empathy and conversation rather than further divide people.

If you've ever questioned your faith, struggled with religious expectations, experienced purity culture, or wondered whether the voice in your head is your intuition or years of religious programming, I think you'll really connect with this conversation.

Thank you for giving these women and guests a space to tell their stories. ❤️
If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment letting Grace know what part of her story resonated with you.

👇 CONNECT WITH GRACE / THE COUNTRY THEY CALL LIFEWebsites:
www.Thecountrytheycalllife.com
www.Gracesims.com

"I Left Jehovah’s Witnesses… But It Took 10 Years to Truly Wake Up" | Jimi's Story

Alissa — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 15:17:41 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, Jimi shares her powerful and deeply honest story of growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness, living with intense fear and guilt, leaving the organization, and spending years in survival mode before finally confronting the trauma she had carried for most of her life.

For Jimi, leaving the organization was only the beginning. After spending 25 years as a Jehovah’s Witness, including pioneering and raising her children in the religion, it took another 10 years before she truly began to wake up, deconstruct, and heal.

One of the most important messages from this conversation is that physically leaving isn't necessarily the same as being free.

"I Got Reinstated as a Jehovah’s Witness While Still an Apostate" | Melanie's Story

Alissa — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 19:10:19 GMT

In this episode of ExJW Women Speak Out, Melanie shares the unbelievable story of growing up as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, surviving an abusive marriage, waking up to the organization, disassociating, and eventually making the unexpected decision to pursue reinstatement.

But there was a catch… She was still an "apostate."

She explains why she decided to return to the Jehovah’s Witnesses after leaving, what happened during the reinstatement process, and how she managed to navigate the organization while no longer believing its teachings.

Her story takes us through religious trauma, family rejection, shunning, an abusive JW marriage, waking up during the pandemic, discovering “apostate” information, and ultimately realizing just how different life could be outside of the organization.

She also shares what it was like to maintain relationships with Jehovah’s Witnesses while keeping the reality of her beliefs private, why she eventually faded, and how she is now living a life that feels more authentic and free.

"I Did Everything 'Right' as a Jehovah’s Witness…Why Did It End This Way?" | Ashley’s Story

Alissa — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 22:42:40 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah’s Witness Women Speak Out, Ashley shares her powerful story of growing up in a Jehovah’s Witness family and the experiences that eventually led her to question the organization she had known her entire life.

She also opens up about abuse she endured, feeling forced in to a marriage at a young age, becoming a young mother, the intense scrutiny she experienced inside the Kingdom Hall, her experiences surrounding the Jehovah’s Witness blood doctrine, and the moment she was willing to risk the consequences of the organization to protect her daughter.
We also talk about something many former Jehovah’s Witnesses experience after leaving: the feeling that the organization is rewriting history. Ashley shares what it was like hearing teachings she distinctly remembers being told are now minimized, changed, or presented as though they never happened.

This is Ashley’s first time publicly sharing her full story, and I’m incredibly grateful she trusted me with it.

If you are questioning Jehovah’s Witnesses, recently left, or are trying to make sense of your own experiences in a high-control religion, I hope Ashley’s story reminds you that you are not alone, and you are not crazy for remembering what happened.

"I Looked Like a Happy Jehovah’s Witness… But I Wasn’t" | Lindsey's Story

Alissa — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 22:26:13 GMT

In this episode of ExJW Women Speak Out, Lindsey shares her powerful story of growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness, navigating a difficult family environment, experiencing control and mistreatment, and eventually reaching the point where she could no longer ignore the things that didn't feel right.

Lindsey talks openly about her experiences inside the Jehovah’s Witness organization, including the pressure to conform, asking elders for help, relationships and family control, working for a Jehovah’s Witness organization, and the moments that ultimately pushed her to start questioning what she had been taught.

If you're questioning Jehovah's Witnesses, recently left, or are somewhere in the middle of your waking-up journey, I hope Lindsey's story reminds you that you are not alone and there can be real happiness after leaving.

"After My Dad Died, They Said I'd Never See Him Again" | Sinead's Story

Alissa — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 01:08:58 GMT

In this episode of Ex-Jehovah's Witness Women Speak Out, Sinead shares how decades of guilt, fear of Armageddon, and the belief that she would never see her father again nearly pulled her back into the organization.

Growing up as a born-in Jehovah's Witness, Sinead was taught that leaving Jehovah meant disappointing her deceased father and risking her chance of seeing him in Paradise. Even years after walking away, those teachings continued to shape her thoughts and emotions.

If you've ever struggled with fear, guilt, or questioning your beliefs after leaving Jehovah's Witnesses or another high-control religion, know that you're not alone.

🤍 If you would like to share your own story on the channel, support the community, or get in touch, you'll find all of the links above.

If this episode resonated with you, please consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Every interaction helps these stories reach someone who may need to hear them.

Secret PIMO Wife Afraid to Leave Jehovah's Witnesses for Fear of Losing Her Children

Alissa — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 03:27:18 GMT

What do you do when waking up from Jehovah's Witnesses could cost you your marriage... and your children?

In this episode of Ask Alissa: Anonymous JW Voicemails, I respond to a secret PIMO (Physically In, Mentally Out) Jehovah's Witness wife and mother who has spent years quietly deconstructing her beliefs. Her husband is still a devoted Jehovah's Witness, her entire family is deeply involved in the organization, and nearly every part of her life depends on remaining inside.

Now she's facing an impossible question:
Should she stay silent to protect her children... or leave and risk losing everything?.

"My Dad Was a Jehovah's Witness Elder. My Mom Never Converted" | Stacy's Story

Alissa — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 19:33:07 GMT

In this episode of Ex Jehovah's Witness Women Speak Out, Stacy shares what it was like growing up with a Jehovah's Witness father while her mother remained Catholic. From childhood confusion and family conflict to holidays, birthdays, marriage, raising children, and navigating the Jehovah's Witness blood doctrine, Stacy offers a perspective that is rarely heard.

Unlike many former Jehovah's Witness stories, Stacy was never baptized into the religion. Instead, she watched firsthand how one parent's conversion affected an entire family while trying to maintain a loving relationship with her father decades later. She also discusses discovering Jehovah's Witness teachings as an adult, including the two-witness rule, higher education, and the impact those beliefs have had on her family.

If you've ever lived in a mixed-faith family, had a Jehovah's Witness parent, or wondered what life is like in a household divided by religion, this conversation offers an honest and compassionate look at the lasting effects.

"I Secretly Escaped the Jehovah's Witnesses in the Middle of the Night" | Darlenne's Story

Alissa — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 16:45:06 GMT

In this episode of Ex Jehovah's Witness Women Speak Out, Darlenne shares her journey of becoming a Jehovah's Witnesses at a young age, bringing her own family into the religion, and eventually realizing she could no longer ignore the contradictions she saw.

From being baptized at just 14 years old to secretly leaving home in the middle of the night with nothing but a packed car and a note, Darlene opens up about the toll of growing up in a high-control religion.

In this conversation we discuss:
• Growing up as one of Jehovah's Witnesses
• Why critical thinking is discouraged in high-control groups
• Misogyny and the treatment of women in the organization
• Spiritual abuse and narcissism
• The pressure to pioneer and appear "spiritual"
• The UN controversy and other doctrinal questions
• Why she secretly planned her escape for weeks
• Religious trauma, healing, and rebuilding life after leaving

Whether you're an ex-Jehovah's Witness, questioning your beliefs, or simply interested in understanding how high-control religions operate, Darlenne's story is honest, insightful, and deeply relatable.

I Secretly Recorded Jehovah's Witness Elders...What They Said Made Me Sick | Anonymous Ex-JW Stories

Alissa — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 22:23:14 GMT

In this anonymous letter, a former Jehovah's Witness shares the heartbreaking story of growing up in an abusive household, surviving childhood trauma, navigating medical pressure over the blood doctrine, battling addiction, discovering the truth about how child sexual abuse is handled within the organization, and ultimately making the decision to secretly record one of her judicial committee.
What she heard after the elders asked her to leave the room confirmed her worst fears.

This powerful story explores:
▫️Growing up as one of Jehovah's Witnesses
▫️Domestic violence and religious trauma
▫️The blood transfusion doctrine
▫️Judicial committees
▫️Elder confidentiality
▫️Child sexual abuse policies
▫️Shunning and disfellowshipping
▫️Mental health and healing after leaving a high-control religion

If you've ever questioned the Jehovah's Witness organization or are recovering from religious trauma, I hope this story reminds you that you are not alone.

❤️ If this video resonates with you, please consider liking, commenting, and subscribing. Your engagement helps these stories reach others who need to hear them.

Are Jehovah's Witnesses a Cult? The BITE Model Explained

Alissa — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 21:39:45 GMT

Are Jehovah's Witnesses a cult? It's one of the most common questions asked about the organization and in this video, we're taking an honest, evidence based look at the answer.

Instead of relying on stereotypes or opinions, I compare Jehovah's Witnesses to the BITE Model, a framework developed by ‪@drstevenhassan‬ to identify characteristics of high-control groups and undue influence.

We'll examine Behavior Control, Information Control, Thought Control, and Emotional Control while looking at official Jehovah's Witness beliefs, policies, and practices.

Topics include shunning, the blood doctrine, higher education, preaching requirements, the Governing Body, information control, fear of Armageddon, and why many former Jehovah's Witnesses believe the organization functions as a high-control religion.

Whether you're an active Jehovah's Witness, an ex-Jehovah's Witness, questioning your faith, researching cults, or simply curious about the BITE Model, I encourage you to examine the evidence and draw your own conclusions.

My goal is not to attack individual Jehovah's Witnesses, but to encourage honest investigation, critical thinking, and support for those navigating religious deconstruction and healing from religious trauma.

"I Was Love Bombed at 14... After Baptism, Everything Changed" | Eva's Story

Alissa — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:11:49 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Eva who shares her incredible journey from being recruited into Jehovah's Witnesses in post-Soviet Latvia to eventually escaping after more than 20 years inside the organization.

She was only 15 years old when she was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. What followed was years of judgment, conditional love, and being permanently labeled for choices she made as a teenager.

Ieva's story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible. Whether you're questioning your beliefs, navigating life after leaving a high-control religion, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers hope, validation, and encouragement.

If this video resonates with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may need to hear this story. Every voice matters, and every story helps someone else feel less alone.

"My Children Were Taken From Me After I Was Disfellowshipped" | Gina's Story

Alissa — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 01:15:55 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Gina as she shares one of the most heartbreaking stories.

Gina devoted her life to her faith and raising her twin daughters. But after being disfellowshipped, everything changed. What followed was years of fear, manipulation, false accusations, CPS investigations, family betrayal, and a custody battle that ultimately separated her from her children.

Despite losing her children, her community, and her family, Gina never gave up hope. This conversation is ultimately a story of survival, resilience, and a mother's unwavering love.

"Inside the Pressure Cooker of JW Adolescence" | Chelsey's Story

Alissa — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Chelsey as she courageously shares her personal journey. Born and raised in the Jehovah's Witnesses she questioned her faith at a young age, and ultimately walked away before adulthood.

From being treated as "bad association" by her own family, to being scrutinized by elders, pressured into harmful relationships, and blamed for speaking up about abuse, Chelsey's story sheds light on the pressure many young people face inside high control religious environments.

At just 13 years old, she told her father she was an atheist. By 17, she made the difficult decision to leave the organization behind. In this conversation, Chelsey opens up about the emotional toll of growing up under constant judgment, the culture of silence surrounding abuse, and how she found the strength to build a life on her own terms.

"Two Best Friends on Abuse, Trauma, and Starting Over" | Alexis & Hannah's Story

Alissa — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 19:45:57 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Hannah and Alexis, two best friends whose lives were deeply impacted by their time in the organization. They experienced significant trauma, including abuse and assault, and witnessed firsthand how harmful behavior can be hidden within the religion.

Everything changed when Hannah was disfellowshipped, leaving Alexis with the painful expectation of shunning her closest friend. Instead of ignoring her instincts, Alexis chose to trust her conscience. She made the difficult decision to step away from the organization and reconnect with Hannah, who had already been out for more than a year.

Today, they are rebuilding their lives, healing from their experiences, and strengthening the friendship that once seemed lost. In this interview, they share their journey and encourage others to trust their instincts, question what doesn't feel right, and discover the beauty, freedom, and genuine connections that exist beyond the organization.

"When the Jehovah’s Witness Blood Doctrine Hits Home" | Denise's Story

Alissa — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:07:05 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Denise as she courageously shares her personal journey. I interviewed her daughter Audrey and now she's ready to share her side of the story.

Denise shares how she found Jehovah’s Witnesses later in life while searching for the truth. She, her husband, and their young daughters fully embraced the religion and built their lives around it.
Everything changed when her husband became seriously ill and the Jehovah’s Witness blood doctrine suddenly became deeply personal. Denise opens up about the fear, heartbreak, and confusion of desperately searching for answers while receiving mixed messages within the organization during one of the most devastating times of her life.

After losing her husband, Denise began to recognize major flaws within the organization that she could no longer ignore. Today, she continues her spiritual journey outside of organized religion and gives some truly great advice to others.

"I Was Disfellowshipped for Years Before Seeing It Was a Cult" | Zaiga's Story

Alissa — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:05:45 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Zaiga as she courageously shares her personal journey.

She opens up about how she found the Jehovah's Witnesses in Latvia as a teenager and while her life as one wasn't long, she had years of dealing with the impact those teachings had on her. Despite being disfellowshipped for over 10 years, it took an ex-elder meeting up with her to help her see this was a cult! Now she is sharing her story to hopefully help others who may be in the place she was, before she saw the organization for what it really is.

"Being a Jehovah’s Witness Left Me Hollow & Depressed" | Ashley's Story

Alissa — Fri, 15 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Ashley as she courageously shares her personal journey.

She opens up about how life as one of Jehovah's Witnesses left her feeling deeply depressed, emotionally hollow, and struggling to find herself. She also witnessed firsthand the devastating way the organization handled CSA allegations and tragically lost a childhood friend as a result.

Now, Ashley has chosen to speak out in hopes of helping others who still feel silenced, unheard, or unable to share their own experiences.

"I Was Raised With One Path Ahead Of Me and It Never Felt Like My Own" | Desiree's Story

Alissa — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Desiree as she shares her personal journey.

She shares what it was like feeling like she didn’t belong from a very young age, yet continuing to play a role to keep family and friends happy. After one Google search, everything changed. The beliefs she had always questioned came crashing down when she discovered information about Raymond Franz and his books.

She continued going through the motions until the birth of her second child, when she realized she didn’t want her children to grow up living a lie. She and her husband quietly faded.

Now, 11 years later, she is finally telling her story to help others see that those who leave are not bad people. They are simply people who allowed themselves to question what never felt right.

"Ignoring My Intuition Kept Me Trapped" | Bobbie's Story

Alissa — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 23:30:26 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Bobbie as she shares her deeply personal journey.

She discusses what it was like being a child during 1975, including the fear that was deeply engrained in her. To her experience with injustices within the congregation, from being reproved for her own SA to the mishandling of CSA. She discusses how ignoring her intuition kept her trapped in the organization for far too long.

This story highlights systemic issues and the importance of questioning and seeking truth.

"From Pioneer Need Greater to Disassociation" | Jasmin's Story

Alissa — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:29:14 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Jasmin as she shares her deeply personal journey.

Born and raised as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Jasmin experienced the pain of losing her father to shunning after he left the organization and tried to gently challenge her beliefs. She devoted her life to the religion, pioneering and eventually serving as a need greater, which led her to Cambodia, leaving behind everything familiar, including her family in Australia.

While there, she began to notice shifts within the organization during COVID, sparking deeper questions and a more critical look at what she had always believed.

Jasmin opens up about her awakening, navigating a faith crisis, and ultimately finding freedom beyond Jehovah’s Witnesses.

"From Cult to Cam Girl: I Didn’t Realize I Needed Healing" | Roxanne's Story

Alissa — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 16:37:39 GMT

In this powerful episode, Roxanne ‪shares her raw and deeply personal story of growing up in a high-control religious environment and the lasting impact it had on her life.

Born into the Jehovah’s Witnesses, Roxanne opens up about childhood trauma, abuse she endured, and the pressure to suppress her identity from a young age. After leaving the organization, she found herself navigating a world she was never prepared for, turning to the adult entertainment industry, alcohol, tattoos and food as a way to cope and numb the pain.

She vulnerably shares how being raised to seek external validation shaped her choices, how shunning from her family affected her sense of self, and the difficult journey of recognizing and healing from deep-rooted trauma.
This is not just a story about leaving Jehovah’s Witnesses, it's about survival, self-discovery, and the long road to healing

"I Have Suffered Lifelong Consequences After a Short Time as a Jehovah’s Witness" | Beata's Story

Alissa — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 23:00:00 GMT

In this powerful episode, Beata shares her journey as a Jehovah’s Witness, from her upbringing in Poland to her eventual move to Australia. She opens up about her early spiritual experiences, deep commitment to the organization, and the doubts that slowly began to surface.

Beata reflects on both the positive and difficult aspects of life inside the Jehovah’s Witness community, including the challenges of relocating to a new country and integrating into a different congregation. Despite her resilience and strong spirit from childhood, she faced significant hardships, including lack of support, cultural isolation, and painful experiences within the organization.

Her story also explores her pursuit of independence, education, and survival through complex personal struggles, including a marriage of convenience, alcoholism, and declining mental health.

As she began to question the lack of love and compassion within the Jehovah’s Witness community, her disillusionment grew.

This episode highlights Beata’s strength in adversity, her journey to reclaim her voice, reconnect with family, and find healing outside of a high-control religion. Her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience it takes to walk away and rebuild.

"I Was Indoctrinated Behind My Parents Back" | Carolina's Story

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:25:19 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Carolina as she shares her story of how she was indoctrinated from a baby without her own parents ever being Jehovah's Witnesses. Though she was never baptized she discusses the manipulation, control, and indoctrination she experienced from a young age, the long-term effects on her mental health, and the importance of setting boundaries. She wanted to share her story to warn parents about the dangers of allowing your children around Jehovah's Witnesses, even when you believe you have clear boundaries in place.

"I Was Falsely Accused of Apostasy and Lost Everything" | Deanna's Story

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:24:31 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Deanna for ‪@CultToFreedom‬ she shares of how she lost everything but has since completely rebuilt her life.

Raised as a fifth-generation Jehovah’s Witness, Deanna was deeply involved in the organization from a young age. From helping build the Mexico Bethel facility, to being a need greater in Dominican Republic, she was heavily involved and fully believed. Everything changed when she was falsely labeled an apostate. She opens up about the devastating consequences that followed, including losing her reputation, her support system, and even custody of her children during a custody battle where religion became a major issue.

Despite remaining faithful at the time, she was treated as an enemy and pushed out of the very community she had dedicated her life to.

Deanna also shares how she eventually rebuilt her life after leaving Jehovah’s Witnesses. From losing everything in her late 30s to creating a completely new life, her story is one of resilience, healing, and rediscovering identity outside of a high-control religion.

Contact Deanna: healingsoulsnlp@gmail.com

"I Refused to Raise My Kids in This Cult" | Audrey's Story

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:19:36 GMT

Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Audrey as she shares her powerful and deeply personal story about growing up as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and the journey that eventually led her to question the organization she was raised to trust.

Audrey’s family was first introduced to the religion after a simple knock on the door from Jehovah’s Witnesses, a moment that would ultimately shape the course of her childhood and family life. In this conversation, she reflects on what it was like growing up inside a high-control religious environment, including the loss of birthdays and holidays, the expectations placed on young members, and the constant pressure to conform.

Audrey also shares the heartbreaking loss of her father as a result of the organization’s blood transfusion policy, a tragedy that profoundly impacted her life and became a pivotal moment in her journey. Facing that loss forced her to begin asking difficult questions about doctrine, authority, and the cost of unquestioned loyalty.

Through honesty and reflection, Audrey discusses the gradual process of questioning, researching, and ultimately finding the courage to think critically about the beliefs she once accepted without question.

Her story sheds light on the emotional and personal realities many experience when leaving Jehovah’s Witnesses, and it serves as an important reminder that questioning and seeking truth are powerful steps toward healing and freedom.

If you’ve ever struggled with faith, religious control, or rebuilding your life after leaving a high-control religion, Audrey’s story is one you won’t want to miss.

"I Found Jesus After Leaving the Jehovah’s Witnesses" | Ardys's Story

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:09:49 GMT

Today, I had the honor of sitting down with Ardys to share her powerful and deeply personal story.

Introduced to the organization at a young age, Ardys always had a sincere love for God. As a teenager, she faced an unplanned pregnancy that led to a marriage she wasn’t ready for, setting the stage for years of emotional and spiritual struggles.

For a long time, she found herself going in and out of the organization, wrestling with the need for family validation and the belief that her life was falling apart because she had stepped away. But everything changed when she discovered a genuine, personal relationship with Jesus, one that didn’t depend on performance, approval, or religious expectations.

Ardys’s journey is a powerful reminder that doubt doesn’t disqualify you. Healing is possible, faith can be rebuilt, and a real relationship with God can make you whole.

Keep an eye out for her upcoming ebook and podcast!
✨Ebook: After the Watchtower & Awakened to the Real Word of God: A Practical Guide for Ex–Jehovah’s Witnesses Rebuilding Faith, Identity, Healing, and Life in Christ
✨Podcast: Awakened and Anchored with ARDYS

"I Had to Shed My Victim Story" | Sherry’s Story

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:05:36 GMT

Today, I had the honor of sitting down with Sherry to hear her powerful story. From a traumatic childhood to joining the Jehovah’s Witnesses at just 14 years old. She endured unimaginable trauma and witnessed firsthand how abuse victims were handled within the organization.

But her story doesn’t end there.

After walking away, Sherry made the brave decision to stop living from a place of victimhood and start reclaiming her life. What followed has been a journey of healing, growth, and incredible accomplishments. Today, she lives with purpose, freedom, and genuine joy.

In this conversation, Sherry shares hope for anyone who has experienced trauma: your story is not over. What happened to you does not define you. Healing is possible and victory is still within reach.

Sherry’s website: http://www.sweetfreedomlife.com/

"The Elders Told Me I Asked Too Many Questions" | Eva’s Story

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:56:44 GMT

Today I spoke with Eva, who has been out for 22 years. She shared how her 16-year-old son’s disfellowshipping became the turning point that pushed her to seriously question everything. When an elder told her she was asking too many questions, she walked out of the Kingdom Hall and never returned.

She explained that her doubts began as early as 8 years old. As a teenager, she watched 1975 come and go, and often found herself on the fringes of the congregation, making choices that left her carrying a heavy sense of guilt.

Eva's story shows the pain that comes when you leave, when your entire family shuns you but she it also shows the beauty that comes with surrounding yourself with those who truly love you, unconditionally.

"I Am Finally Living Life Out Loud" | Summer Catch Up

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:53:06 GMT

Today I sat down with Summer for a long overdue catch up. I first interviewed her last year, and in this conversation she opens up about where she is now on her healing journey, what’s helped her along the way, and how she’s learning to truly live life out loud.

Summer also talks about her recently released book, The Children of Mother Gaia, a cult horror novel inspired by her knowledge of growing up in a high control religion.
https://amzn.to/4r3CnH7

This was a relaxed, honest conversation meant to highlight that healing after leaving the Jehovah’s Witness organization isn’t linear. It takes time, intention, and a lot of self-work.

"I Spent Years Pretending While Planning My Escape" | Paulina’s Story

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:47:41 GMT

This week, I sat down with Paulina who spent years playing the role of the perfect Jehovah's Witness, all while try to plan her escape. Her story sheds light on not only how hard it truly is to leave, but on how outward appearances don't always show what the person is internally going through.

Jehovah’s Witness Blood Doctrine Change LEAKED | Are They Admitting They Were Wrong?

Alissa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:39:50 GMT

New light was leaked early and as of Friday March 20 it was confirmed via a Governing Body update. This one got me fired up! I sincerely hope more people continue to open their eyes and wake up in the cult that is, Jehovah's Witnesses.

Why You Should Say NO to the Jehovah’s Witness Memorial

Alissa — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:00:16 GMT

Every year around this time, thousands of former Jehovah’s Witnesses receive the same message: “Are you coming to the Memorial this year?”

For many ex-JWs, that invitation isn’t just a simple question, it’s often filled with pressure, guilt, and emotional expectations from family still inside the organization.

On this episode, I talk about why saying “no” to the Jehovah’s Witness Memorial can be one of the most important boundaries you set after leaving.
Many people attend the Memorial just to keep the peace with family. But what message does that actually send? And why does attending often keep the cycle of pressure going year after year?

"I Was Forced to Live a Lie" | Sandra's Story

Alissa — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 21:25:40 GMT

During this conversation, I sat down with Sandra to share her raw and honest journey. She wasn’t born into the religion, she joined in her twenties, after being raised Catholic. Over the next 20 years, she endured deeply painful and challenging experiences. Her story sheds light not only on the misogyny that is rampant within the organization, but also on how easily a woman can become trapped in an unhealthy marriage.

"I Asked to Be Disfellowshipped" | Phey's Story

Alissa — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 21:13:58 GMT

In this conversation Phey discusses life growing up Jehovah's Witness, how she had doubts creep in around 15 and what her life looked like after she asked to be disfellowshipped to finally break free. She talks a lot about deconstructing and rebuilding her life, and how others can do the same.

Were We Basically in the Same Religion? Ex-JW & Ex-Mormon Compare Notes w/ Cults to Consciousness

Alissa — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 21:07:52 GMT

Shelise from Cults to Consciousness and I sat down to talk about the parallels and similarities between Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons(LDS).

"My Life as a Jehovah's Witness Was Full of Pain" | Dominique's Story

Alissa — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 21:01:11 GMT

This conversation talks about how vulnerable people can be taken advantage of, the pressure and isolation that often happens inside the community, and the doubts and expectations that shaped Dominique's life for years.

We also talk about the impact of trauma and depression, how assault was handled inappropriately, and what it’s like to go through loss with very little real support. We talk about how love and acceptance in the organization is conditional, what life looks like after leaving, and some advice for people who are questioning or thinking about getting out.

"I Endured Abuse but Found My Voice!" | Brooke's Story

Alissa — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 20:56:54 GMT

This conversation dives into Brooke's story; from childhood trauma, unhealthy family dynamics, and the impact of living as a Jehovah's Witness. It explores the experience of shame, rejection, and the consequences of teenage rebellion. We also discuss disfellowshipping, elders' abuse, control, and the silent suffering and stigma associated with seeking help or leaving an abusive relationship within the Jehovah's Witness community.

"I Was Baptized at 7! But FREE by 23!" | Sam's Story

Alissa — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:20:26 GMT

The conversation delves into Sam's childhood experiences within the Jehovah's Witnesses and the impact of family dynamics on her mental health. It explores the pressure to conform, the struggle for acceptance, and the emotional toll of abusive relationships within the organization. The conversation delves into her surviving trauma within the Jehovah's Witness organization, reporting the assault, and facing reproach and isolation. It then explores Sam's journey of leaving the organization, healing, and speaking out to empower others who have faced similar challenges.

"I Broke the Cycle: 3 Generations Saved from the Jehovah's Witnesses" | Patty's Story

Alissa — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:08:24 GMT

The conversation delves into the impact of the 1975 Armageddon prediction on Patty's life, as well as the challenges of growing up as a Jehovah's Witness. It explores the struggles of childhood and adolescence, family dynamics, marriage, rebellion, and the process of fading and leaving the organization. Patty's journey reflects the disillusionment and doubts that arose from the organization's teachings and the impact of the 1975 prediction on her faith. The conversation delves into the devastating impact of shunning, the challenges of life after disfellowship, the reality of shunning, finding faith and healing, the impact on children and grandchildren, emotional hooks and healing, and life outside the organization. Patty also shares her journey of healing and recovery, offering advice and hope to those in similar situations.

"I Was Too Independent for the Misogynistic Jehovah's Witness Culture" | Summer's Story

Alissa — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 18:35:18 GMT

The conversation delves into the mental health impact of shunning and the challenges faced by Jehovah's Witness women. It explores the childhood and family dynamics, struggles as a teenage Jehovah's Witness, experiences of marriage, divorce, and disfellowshipping, the treatment by elders, the impact of misogyny, and the journey towards independence and leaving the organization. The conversation covers the experience of life inside the Jehovah's Witnesses organization, the process of awakening and leaving, the emotional impact of shunning, the journey of building a new life, and the importance of finding community and pursuing personal passions post-organization.

Welcome to Alissa's Awake

Alissa — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 22:25:33 GMT

Alissa’s Awake is a podcast centered on the powerful stories of former Jehovah’s Witnesses, especially women who are reclaiming their voices, independence, and personal identity after leaving the organization. Each episode explores the journey of waking up, stepping away from the religion, and navigating the complex path of healing and self discovery. Through honest conversations about topics often considered taboo, including religious trauma and life after a cult, the podcast creates a supportive space rooted in compassion, understanding, and empowerment.