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

*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 the community. Natasha shares personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges and complexities of her upbringing, setting the stage for deeper discussions in future episodes. In this conversation, Natasha J Layton shares her experiences growing up in a polygamous community under the control of Warren Jeffs.

The discussion highlights the growing tension within her family as her mother began to assert her independence, the challenges faced when transitioning to public school, and the emotional bonds formed with her brother Ward. The conversation also touches on the financial stress experienced during the holidays and the importance of self-care amidst trauma.

 

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Takeaways

• This conversation is like a teaser episode.
• Natasha's brother has never shared anything publicly.
• The FLDS community had a unique emotional climate.
• Natasha's family was an anomaly in the polygamous world.
• Their household ran like a well-oiled machine.
• Warren Jeffs was a significant authority figure in their lives.
• The family dynamics were complex with multiple mothers.
• Natasha's father chose his children over the church.
• The community prepared for the end of the world.
• School days were heavily influenced by Warren Jeffs' rules. Warren Jeffs had a controlling presence in the community.
• Natasha's mother began to break away from community norms.
• The family faced tension as they navigated their identities.
• Public school was a challenging experience for Natasha.
• Bullying was a significant issue for Natasha in public school.
• Natasha and Ward share a strong bond despite family challenges.
• Financial stress can impact holiday experiences.
• Coping mechanisms are essential for dealing with trauma.
• The importance of self-care during difficult times.
• The family's story is a complex mix of trauma and resilience.

 

Chapters

00:00 Setting the Stage for Powerful Conversations   03:00 Life in the FLDS: A Unique Perspective   05:52 The Dynamics of a Polygamous Household   08:57 Warren Jeffs: The Authority Figure   12:04 The Impact of Excommunication   14:53 School Days Under Warren Jeffs   18:04 Growing Up in a Controlled Environment   18:43 The Growing Tension in the Community   23:01 The Shift in Family Dynamics   28:00 Navigating Public School and Bullying   30:02 Preparing for the Next Chapter with Ward   34:07 Financial Stress During the Holidays

 

Mental Health Resources

• If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
• The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
• The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
• National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223) 

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See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.