Startin' Some Ripples

"Shit My Pastor Said": Unpacking Religious Trauma with Kris Sauter

Episode Summary

In this episode, Kris Sauter joins me in talking about religion, specifically trauma from organized religion! Kris shares his journey from being a pastor in a toxic church environment to healing and resilience. Together, we explore spirituality, recovery, and Kris’ innovative project, "Shit My Pastor Said," which creates a safe space for survivors of spiritual abuse to share their stories.

Episode Notes

In this episode, I’m joined by Kris Sauter to talk about religion, specifically trauma from organized religion! Kris shares his journey from being a pastor in a toxic church environment to healing and resilience. Together, we explore spirituality, recovery, and Kris’ innovative project, "Shit My Pastor Said," which creates a safe space for survivors of spiritual abuse to share their stories.

• Power Dynamics:  The inherent power dynamics in churches that can lead to manipulation and exploitation.
• Responsibility and Healing: Kris admits complicity within the toxic system and stresses the importance of accountability and healing.
• Abuse and Trauma: Kris speaks candidly about his experience with spiritual abuse and the journey to acknowledge it as trauma. This realization came through therapy and understanding toxic church environments.
• Healing Spaces: Kris emphasizes the importance of creating safe, authentic, and inclusive spiritual communities where individuals can explore their spirituality without fear or pressure.

Connect with Kris!

Shit My Pastor Said: https://www.shitmypastorsaid.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kris.sauter/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kris_sauter45/