Growing Up in an Incestuous Mormon Cult

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

Shelise you’re awesome! Thank you for getting this information out. Other order survivors may see this, and I’ll definitely support them as a witness for the abuse allowed in their cult.

[@CultstoConsciousness]

YOU are awesome!! Thank you for coming on and sharing so openly ❤️🙏🦄 did you see your shirts? cults-to-consciousness-shop.fourthwall.com/en-usd/products/youre-a-goddamn-unicorn-boho cults-to-consciousness-shop.fourthwall.com/products/youre-a-goddamn-unicorn

[@WillieWeed]

Congratulations to you both for a great talk about life after leaving everything you ever knew for the big scary world full of us scary people. 🎉🥂

[@megansslore]

Val & Shelise, you are such beautiful souls. Thank you for your bravery. Sending love to you & all the cult survivors out there. And a big a F YOU to Daniel and all the men like him!

[@raya.p.l5919]

❤ Jesus power. 😮 FREE. Warning it is intense. Last 30 minutes. Best to relax and shut yr eyes😮

[@lorrainefranchi9105]

Val you are truly amazing You are so strong to come away from such horrible abuse and still have love in your heart! I wish I could hug you! You are beautiful!!

[@monaalice9500]

No need for him to explain why he smiles. I work with people who have experienced significant traumas, and when I see that smile, I instantly want to comfort them. It helps hold the trauma in and is yet another display of strength. Huge respect to all who've shared their stories on this channel.

[@lindseyhendrix2405]

💯🤍

[@slconley]

The smile and laugh is a trauma response so you don’t cry.

[@rainbowmom7582]

@@slconley💯

[@Lock484]

@@jessigirlrae1688 😖😢

[@joan-lisa-smith]

because sometimes when you finally do you can't stop.@@slconley

[@scottietrademark]

Imaging having over 100 children and you don't have a relationship with any of them. Imagine they all hate you... what a failure of a parent.

[@teesh871]

Next level failure. It would be impressive if it wasn't so awful.

[@eastcoastbabe97]

He didn't care about being a parent. All he wanted to do is breed & keep these women in poverty. It's all about control.

[@debprobst330]

They don't do it to be parents not in the normal sense of the word ..... it's control by a demented person... Daniel is a narcissistic sociopath

[@Themodestcritic]

He's not a parent he's a sperm donor

[@AndrizzleFoShizzle]

What a failure of a human.

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

I forgot to mention, one important conversation I had with the leader Paul. He acknowledged the abuse was wrong, but insisted members don’t take other members to authorities, and promised me he would take care of it.

[@IKilledEarl]

Did you ever hear if Paul "took care" of Daniel? What a great interview! The part where you were telling your date's granny about the cult had me lol. 🦄🩵

[@nicolee1205]

great interview! ❤❤

[@mtaylor7307]

This comment should be pinned. Thank you for sharing your story. It helps healing and understanding.

[@slconley]

What did taking care of it mean?

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

@@slconley I don't think it meant anything...

[@Belladonnaisatomato]

I absolutely love this kid. Like smiling through the darkness lets the devil see your teeth. Thats a strong person and absolutely a force to be reckoned with. I wish him a long life full of health and happiness

[@emilyrln]

"Smiling through the darkness lets the devil see your teeth." I love this!! Stealing it for my collection of inspiring quotes.

[@usedscar]

​@emilyrln Yep stolen! Great saying.

[@2degucitas]

Can you believe he's 35? He looks younger.

[@shadelings]

@@2degucitas I was shocked by that too. He's so adorable.

[@greendragon4058]

He is absolutely amazing I agree

[@cl5470]

Val is right. Daniel is not a father, just a DNA donor. Real parents grow and learn WITH their kids. Our children should help us to be more compassionate, kind and loving. Val was more of a parent to his siblings than Daniel could ever hope to be.

[@fabigrossi2976]

I wouldn't call him DNA donor either, that sounds kind of positive. I think he was just a sp..rm spreader.

[@sharonthompson672]

​@@fabigrossi2976 I'd say he's a dipstick looking for a car...🧐

[@thomasnguyen6144]

He is a biological father, but a bad father. I would call him a male whore.

[@darthszarych5588]

"The guy who inseminated ur mom"

[@roselee4445]

May God grant Val an awesome future. Blessed with love and financial prosperity

[@Suspiciousminds828]

Absolutely love Val’s personality. So glad he is healing and living HIS life.

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

Thanks ❤ my😢 personality 💕

[@lahawk7410]

Totally agree. Great personality. Glad he didn't end up as an adult living that lie/life in the order.

[@Mel-pz2jh]

His story just made me cry. Am I wrong or does every cult leader have some sort of sexual perversion. So awful! 😢😠

[@CultstoConsciousness]

Haven’t found one without one so far…

[@jacquelineleitch7050]

Val hit the nail on the head, it’s about sadism more than the sexual perversion.

[@opheliaelesse]

That's what the cult is for.

[@AdvancedCommonSense]

Yes, child labor and child abuse. Cults are terrible.

[@Bruintjebeer6]

Every sekt I read or heard about always have a leader who sexual abuse children and woman.

[@thefelicits]

What a lovely guy! I can't imagine being so positive after all he's been through. Great to see a survivor thriving ♥️

[@bluewingedchaoscat]

I think it's very brave just to call things by their name. To tell people how it was. Not because of sensationalism but because so many people just don't get the picture of what abuse like that entails. There are so many levels to this and in order to drive home the severity sometimes you have to get graphic. I hope you're able to find a healthy balance in life after these horrific experiences.

[@audreymcginnis8370]

I just love Val, I'm so glad he's so happy and well adjusted. What a wonderful human being.

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

💜🤍💜

[@y.m.or.4053]

Val is just SO ENDEARING! Especially hearing his moments of discovery where he's very much confused but very much has the right spirit! Go Val! ❤

[@CultstoConsciousness]

Couldn't agree more!

[@jcg03002]

Val, Amanda, Eskel, Shanelle, Kollene, and all the other Order survivors impress me so much - they have been so much in their lives, but have so much strength and humor. I love seeing how Val is thriving!

[@marycarmody9025]

There should be NO statute of limitations on child abuse. I am soooo sorry you had to deal with that evil person!!! I pray you will find healing and hope. God bless you and keep you.

[@kazayana7351]

Forgive me if this was mentioned somewhere but she would make an awesome trauma counselor the way she explains things is so reassuring this podcast is truly therapy for so many people ❤

[@justkiddin84]

Well, she is performing that function in a way here. For free, so folks know they aren’t alone, which is a huge step in recovery!♥️✌️

[@lindseyhendrix2405]

Heck, I think she’s already essentially doing that for herself, her guests, and all of us! But I know what you mean, I do wonder though if there’s a sect of counselors or psychologists that specialize in religious trauma. There’s obviously quite a demographic who could use that-a.k.a. _allllllll of us._

[@CultstoConsciousness]

That is so kind of you. Thank you so much. I do my best to make this space as safe and comfortable as possible for my guests. As another cult/abuse survivor, I know what it’s like to tell my story. Thank you for watching and supporting!

[@Dusty_Den]

​@CultstoConsciousness you do an amazing job. You're simultaneously creating awareness and holding space for people to share their stories and relate to other survivors. It's so important 💜🫶

[@ayla4686]

​@@lindseyhendrix2405yes, specialist in that area and also hypnotherapists who specialize in deprogramming.

[@iflan09]

I love Val's resilience and enthusiasm and happy spirit. I'm so glad he is out in more ways than one!

[@lahawk7410]

Imagine living in that stifling environment when all he wants to do is sparkle and radiate joy!

[@RaciePSB]

Can’t get over how utterly good looking and charismatic this young man is, not to mention super-smart! I wish him a happy life. ❤

[@lahawk7410]

Well said.

[@starsINSPACE]

So brave to tell his story! I wish the government was better at finding and shutting down these types of abusive cult 😢

[@user-gk-y8t]

It is very difficult when they hide under the banner of God.

[@mariavonromer1079]

That's the problem, they hide under banner and the government is afraid to do anything even though they are breaking the law. The law must apply to all. Women and children are chattel.

[@devy024]

We are the government and have divine rights including law making, prosecution and justice.

[@bettyhutcheson9318]

The government knows where these people are, since Warren Jeff's, and still do nothing. Very said for these young folks when no one cares.

[@bettyhutcheson9318]

Sad

[@debbyfazfphotography]

I can see why you don't want to refer to his as your dad. He was your biological father, but he certainly wasn't a dad. I'm so sorry for all you went through. Please remember it was NOT your fault! It was never your fault. You are not to blame for anything that happened to you! You were a victim of evil circumstances. Please take care of yourself. ❤

[@lolaottinger3038]

Daniel is nothing more than a sperm donor. That’s all.

[@GBfanatic15]

he was not a father he was practically just a sperm donor...and also a monster

[@powderandpaint14]

I'm wondering if any of these siblings have ever or would ever file a police report against Daniel, he obviously abused all his children in various ways, he had already gone to prison for beating one daughtr severely. He needs to be in jail!

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

I agree! If it was up to me, Daniel would be in Prison for life. He should just go turn himself in. He'll have his whole afterlife, to go be a God of his own planet😂 Please Don't Baptize a dead me, I've been looking forward to outer darkness. it sounds so relaxing❤❤❤

[@rainbowmom7582]

@@Valiant.UnicornDaniel should be under the jail! I’m so sorry you had to grow up that way. 🥰🤗 I’m interested in your soap & candle boxes! Please let us know when you start selling them! Sending you love from Virginia! ❤️

[@PresleysMom504]

It could be similar to other (Mormon) cults where the entire PD is made up of Mormons or community leaders or in cahoots with them.

[@emilyrln]

@@Valiant.Unicornfrom what I recall of the doctrine, I think you have to accept the baptism for it to work, so you have the opportunity but aren't forced. But that could just have been what I was taught in my fairly chill and progressive ward in NW Oregon. What an amazing interview! You're so strong and I'm glad you're thriving in the outside 🥰

[@powderandpaint14]

Wow, it's Amanda Rae's cousin! He has some absolutely wild stories, how the members of his family who have committed terrible abuses aren't (permanently) in jail is beyond me.

[@RoseNZieg]

you would be surprised at how much control these religious groups in the Utah justice system.

[@gwengwen4535]

It’s because heretical religious organizations like the LDS, Jehovah’s witnesses, Catholic, even some IFB and southern grace chapel organizations, all “own” entire communities and counties etc. it’s disgusting. Religion is awful. All we need is the Bible, preferably the KJV, since it is accurately translated from the original, historically authenticated manuscripts.

[@h8llo394]

Well there too little places for them and its the usa a verry extreem country as it come too abuse and incest things could be half off the population of the usa

[@someusername4129]

Is it though? The Christians tend to get carte blanche to do anything in the US and hide behind religious persecution to protect themselves. It's very easy for them to perpetrate crimes for a long time before getting caught. Generations of children undergo pretty horrific mental and physical abuse in these theocratic systems. It's a common story in their communities.

[@JohnSmith-vq5wx]

Or brother uncle nephew

[@mtaylor7307]

Statutes of limitations favor the perpetrators but some times victims wait until after the statute runs out due to fear of reprisal. Safety is #1 when trying to survive. You speak on your own timeline. Thank you for sharing today. 💙

[@usedscar]

I was pulled out of school to take care of my 3 siblings at 14. We weren't in a cult or even poor. My parents were going through a divorce, and I was handy. I adored my siblings but said a few things to them that I regret to this day. I was too young to be a stay at home mom.

[@paisleygirl6642]

It's normal to angry about that and it's okay to use your voice to express your anger about it to your parents. What happened wasn't fair.

[@usedscar]

@paisleygirl6642 never really covered with the parents, but the sisters and I have an understanding about it. And we're all still here. I made it to college. Lol

[@marietgagliardi]

That was so wrong. I think anyone would have said a few bad things

[@willowtree6657]

Two fabulous people having a very difficult, painful discussion covering subjects that society doesn’t like to normally hear, but needs to be told.

[@slconley]

Break the silence, break the cycle! I have a lot of respect for those who left the order.

[@3shellyiam]

What a sweet lovely human being Val is! I'm so glad he was able to escape and build a good life for himself. Lots of love and healing to him and all victims of abuse and control.

[@rhondadearborn3265]

Why can’t all of the escapees of the order get together and do a civil suit for child abuse, violation of child, labor, laws, sexual abuse, etc against the order? Something needs to be done!

[@burmessafox3939]

I guess one of the reason is the stature of limitations

[@sidstovell2177]

​@@burmessafox3939And it's Utah.

[@Rocklandmoons]

The order murderes victims slowly and stalks them, ppl barely escape with their lives. You can't sue them because you don't know any legal names or addresses.

[@tbella5186]

I actually found you through Amanda Rea! The Order stories never stop being shocking, and heartbreaking. I can not comprehend how they are still functioning.

[@annihilxte]

This was so eye opening. So, while I haven’t been in a cult, my dad’s side of the family grew up Mormon. They’re not as extreme, but a lot of them are very set in their beliefs. He got out in his 20s but a lot of the family is still in. I didn’t understand much about cults until Leah Remini and Mike Rinder taught me about Scientology. I realized how similar some of the policies and rules are within these religious organizations. It helped me to explain why my dad would randomly cut me off at age 17 (I was struggling but it felt like such an overreaction). We have a somewhat civil relationship now where I can speak to him occasionally but it’s not the same. I was able to realize that even though he left, the reworking of your brain and beliefs is going to be a life long effort. People like you have helped me understand that a little better. Thank you to Val for sharing his incredible story, god I cannot imagine living like that. What a brave soul. Thank you Shelise! You are doing important work and I appreciate the time, energy and care you put into your content. I’m new here but don’t plan on leaving! ❤

[@PresleysMom504]

Yeah I agree, “regular” Mormons reallllllly toe the line with being a cult. A lot of their rituals and requirements are super extreme.

[@traceyidzes8781]

He was only a baby helping to raise more babies, I’m absolutely devastated that this beautiful young man had to live any of what he did. He so deserves so much more. Good luck and may his future be filled with nothing but Luck, Laughter and Love 💕🇦🇺

[@fionafiona1146]

It's deeply disturbing to hear 7 year olds get put in charge of 6 month old Babies when I at 3x that age struggle

[@lahawk7410]

He may not have received the love he deserved in the order, but I hope he feels the outpouring of love from all of us (viewers).

[@seanamrein4989]

Im very proud of him for doing the interview he carries it very well and hes working towards something positive coming out of what they did to him

[@TrueCrimeJunkie7]

What a special man to come out of this dangerous cult and be such a great funny, dynamic man ❤

[@kukka1234]

his energy is so contageous! i loved this episode 💜

[@marlenemeyer9841]

This is horrific and also inspiring. Horrific what Val went through! Inspiring to see him thrive.

[@SuzeeD4358]

Yet another great episode. Just the fact that Val can smile and crack jokes after the childhood he had gives me hope and joy. Thanks Val, and best of everything to you and your husband.

[@Abigail-li3mk]

I learned about the Kingston Clan from Escaping Polygamy!!! I loved that show. This group makes me sick and Daniel sounds like a degraded psychopath and needs to be in jail forever. All the head guys actually. Gross. Val seems like a sweet guy, bless him for speaking out! 💜

[@rainbowmom7582]

I love that show too! They need to bring it back!

[@mtaylor7307]

Daniel sounds like he played a shell game with his sexuality. No normal sexual intimacy with his women, all about breeding and control. His sexual activity towards males was with boys whom he could control completely. So he kept his bisexuality or homosexuality closeted.

[@secretpal6039]

I agree! Great show.

[@Killer_Rhapsody]

Val is such a bright beautiful soul. I loved hearing him speak and I would love for him to come back again. ❤

[@Fuchsbau101]

My ex husband was not a mormon but he had mormon beliefs. He believed any money I had or earned belonged to him and the same went for our daughter. I didn't give it to him or go along with this idea. A lot of fights, day in and day out. So glad to get us away from him.

[@abigailchristensen3793]

Not all Mormons are like that but many are and abusive men in general, very disgusting and you deserve so much better

[@juanitamurray9083]

Val you have a great personality, making others smile I wish you the best and would love to see you hosting a special show on TV Loved the grandma story and how brave you were to share and educate her along with us

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

❤

[@dreamzofhorses]

Val has the right attitude! Best revenge is a happy life! Don’t look back, just keep moving forward. Use your experience to give hope and encouragement to others in the same situation. I think it not only helps them but helps you to heal. I subbed to his channel and look forward to seeing more of him.

[@SatansRoerhat]

I relate to Vals story ❤ People don't understand that sexual violence is about power and not sexuality. I felt seen by 🌟Val's very important point🌟 that his dad didn't have sexual attraction to him and rather wanted to exert control and sadistically take his anger out on Val. - Why emotionally regulate, when you can just pour out all your negative feelings onto people and children trapped under your bloodied umbrella?

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

❤

[@katwitanruna]

When my father abused me as a child it felt like it wasn’t him. Like he’d get in this mood and not want to do things but has to do things. He did apologize when I was an adult and we didn’t talk about it but I know his mother was EA and probably PA and neglect. But over 90% of offenders report having experienced SA as children.

[@devy024]

And the abusers and rulers keep saying they do these things to women and children in the name of God. Think they're going to earn their own kingdom. I can't think of a higher abomination than what they do to children. God bless the children, let's free them with love and laws. Their kingdom has failed. Thank God for those who can speak out. We all have a lot of praying and healing to do. If someone reads these comments and thinks they have been forgotten, that will never happen. Americans care and love you all and I'm so sorry. Life is not what this is about. You are your own child of God, same as everyone else. Intelligent, beautiful, loving and free.

[@lizkrafft4343]

Jesus loved little children. JESUS showed the way to treat them with love. Wonder what New Testament these men read. 🤔

[@mirmizkool]

Wishing you the best, Val. You are incredibly brave for leaving the cult and getting the help to walk the road to recovery. Thank you, Shelise, for your important work.

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

❤

[@suepeachey1730]

Massive respect to val, for coming on and telling his story, I'm so sorry for what you went through, these cults need calling out, they need to be investigated!

[@SLPYHD-rd7jc]

You're such a supportive host. I'm having a bad mental health day while listening, and although the content is rather heavy, your reassurances made me feel calm. I'm glad I found this channel.

[@justanormalcat5565]

So much power in a smile. Thanks for leading by example. All the best wishes to you.

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

❤

[@angharadcrossley6253]

Imagine going through all of that and still being such a sweet, strong, and genuine person.

[@speeeee35]

I’m so sorry you went through all this, and your siblings and mom too. I know you know this, but it’s important to hear it: What he did to you isn’t your fault and he’d have done it to anyone whether they were the best person, worst person, smartest, dumbest, happiest, saddest… as long as you were innocent and defenseless, he’d have done it. I’m so sorry he did, and he’ll pay for it in this life (and the next if you ask me). Thanks for sharing your story to help and educate the rest of us and help people feel less alone. You’re a great person for that and so brave. I hope you have a happy life and lots of things that bring you joy, and I hope you still have god in some way that brings you peace.. and that that evil you experienced didn’t take something meant to be good from you. Thanks again and I wish you well. Great interview ❤

[@_kimiadventures]

If you don’t laugh you could probably cry forever. What an incredibly strong man

[@rubinleigh2756]

Oh my gods, the way Val switched to speaking in the present tense when talking about that one incident just broke my heart. It almost seemed like he's still stuck in that moment. Good luck on your continued healing journey, Val, and congrats to you and your husband on your marriage. The cake looks amazing! PS I will totally buy some unicorn soap and sparkly candles holy shit cant wait for those boxes to drop!

[@sonja.5035]

I liked this guy. His story was heartbreaking and so sad but then from nowhere he would say something so funny and I found myself laughing as crazy. He's very strong and his strength and humour have saved his life. I wish him all the best ❤

[@lorrainefranchi9105]

I really want to hug this young man! And I'm trying to stop the tears from coming. SO glad he got out!!

[@raaaaaaarr]

Val is so loveable and adorable and authentic! He has the purest emotions, body language and behaviour. Hes a huge catch to the whole world and everbody in it. I love him

[@babycakes8434]

Such a difficult topic, but it was so much fun to listen to you Val. So happy for you that you are thriving🎉

[@jaynem7879]

Great interview as always. Looking forward to watching Val's channel. Amazing to see how strong and resilient your guests are. Val, I am so happy you are living your true life. Your positivity is infectious.

[@rainbowmom7582]

I’m so glad Val was able to get out and is living his truth. He’s an awesome young man! Whatever happened to the Escaping Polygamy show? They really need to bring it back! I just saw the part where she asked his age - 😳 he’s 35? He looks 22 - wow

[@brontetaylor8243]

Thank you, Shelise! The work you do is so important. Val’s story is so powerful. What a beautiful mind, so much strength and intelligence. So so empowering to see how every story told is helping heal the collective. Val, the way you express yourself and the perspective you have, shows profound strength and mind-blowing goodness!! Blessings on your journey. Blessings on your family. May your journey through life be full of joy and healing.

[@Gaasulin4]

You have touched my heart Val, so inspiring. I’m so glad you’re living your life, healing and sharing your story with the world ❤

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

❤

[@waternineeightlotus2869]

What an amazing, wonderful,strong, funny guy! My heart felt like a ray of love, just listening to him, and couldn't stop smiling (I've been through some hardships in my life and have been fighting depression/anxiety for the last 30 years, so it was such a blessing for me). I wish him all the love and joy possible. ❤

[@pizzabinge]

What a beautiful soul. Thank you for sharing ❤

[@NessaBear90]

Look at my love Val!! He is the best ❤. I could listen to his stories forever.

[@elizabethrace5406]

Val is the cutest! What a beautiful spirit! I love that he's enjoying marriage and entrepreneurship. 🦄

[@katwitanruna]

There was a reason I called my father father and my stepfather dad. At least my father apologized. Thanks for speaking up anyway.

[@maeae6521]

I am so incredibly proud of all of you! Val, Amanda and Shelise have done so, so much to help and care for others amidst these incredibly abusive conditions. Saving yourself in these circumstances is admirable, but bringing as many along with you and protecting everyone as much as possible is next level. Y'all are such truly good humans! Wishing each of you much love!

[@stephd479]

Amazing story, thanks. It's so interesting (horrible) how he was forced to become an adult/parent/manager at such a young age, but simultaneously infantilized by restriction to information and outside ideas and norms. What a mindfuck. Along with the financial abuse it creates perfect victims who are alienated and trapped. But he escaped! Just amazing.

[@rheajohson4420]

They shopped for armies at st George Costco. Saw this with my own eyes. One middle age man... rather paunchy. One older woman . ( first wife?). Three younger ones. . all pushing carts except him. Youngest girl....had two walking kids...a double stroller with two babies riding. Carrying another baby and she was pregnant.. poor thing!!! So young too.other kids of all ages with group. Maybe a total of 15 in group.. girls all had blonde and red hair in long beautiful braids.. long puritan dresses and combat boots. My eyes were glued

[@wakedawncat9290]

Shelise, You are one of THE BEST INTERVIEWERS ever!🥰 Your compassion is amazing!😇🩷

[@CultstoConsciousness]

Wow, thank you! 🥰❤️

[@kimsule5169]

Val, you are an absolutely BEAUTIFUL young man!!! I can't even begin to wrap my head around all the abuse you have endured . Your spirit is AMAZING!!! Wishing you nothing but the BEST in all your endeavors. Sending you hugs 🤗 🦄🦄

[@december0964]

I thoroughly enjoy this kid ! I’m saying he is so well rounded and articulate and also able to talk about the toughest of topics 😮 His personality rocks! Goes to show you can be raised one way but if you are true to yourself & not replicate your upbringing you can be an to so many people ! Val will inspire countless others in his lifetime and beyond ! Thank you for sharing your journey with the world Val ❤

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

❤🦄🦋

[@7Tajah]

oh honey, what an upbringing. you are brave! and so filled with light! Best blessings to you.

[@adaboBADa]

Shelise and Val. What a breath of fresh air! Thank you.

[@CultstoConsciousness]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

❤🦄🦋

[@Potato-fv9ns]

Thank you for sharing your story. Very brave and gland you are safe and speaking up!

[@megs8125]

I just want to tell Val that he doesn't have to apologize for telling his story. Or like you said in the video, for how he processes things (I'm definitely someone who handles difficult situations with humor). All you can do is offer a trigger warning, which you clearly did on this video. Beyond that, no one gets to tell you how to tell your own story.

[@iflan09]

Catholics...before the 60s...were much like this. I remember thinking, at 37, that my mother had 9 kids by then. 10, by the age of 40. In our neighborhood, all of the Catholics had at least 5 kids and the Methodists, Jewish, and other families had normal sized families. .2.5 kids. I had twins at 27, and that was it for me.

[@Celticmist-qz6ve]

In all religions Christian or non chre women were expected to have lost of children

[@Celticmist-qz6ve]

Many protestant denominations advocatedbrhe same as Jewish, amish and Muslims faiths as well.

[@Celticmist-qz6ve]

So NOT just Catholic

[@PresleysMom504]

Fundies of all types believe in huge families. Catholics certainly have a history of mega reproduction but they’re not doing it because of polygamy which is a huge difference.

[@Celticmist-qz6ve]

@@PresleysMom504 Catholics and Amish and some protestant faiths also have. Thankfully that has pretty much declined. It is only those who cannot afford them who have larger families

[@katwitanruna]

Break the silence. Break the cycle.

[@AlexisPage-vu]

Thank-you Val. You're fabulous! After all you've been through, you're smiling, and it makes me smile! You've surpassed survivor and now you're a thriver! A happy unicorn-- and I love it! You deserve everything good in this world for all you do. ❤🥰🦄🌟

[@mikaylafrancis6036]

Could we get Jazza on the show some time? As an Aussie whos deconstructing, I would love to see some Aussies talking about their journey. Jazza grew up in a Mormon family and now has a channel sharing art and inspiration for creatives ^.^

[@nedsanders]

I wish there was a way for Val and the other former members to sue the order for all of the child support, rent, and other fees that were taken from them for so many years. I know it woildnt ever be anywhere near a reparation but it would hurt daniel and the order where they would feel it the most. Their wallet. Thank you Val for your bravery and infectious positive personality. Never be afraid to be your best self You are changing lives by just being yourself and telling your story. Great interview. ❤

[@tdsollog]

There are so many important points mentioned in this video, but was especially hit me was the statement about grooming. Thank you for getting voices heard and validated. Abuse in the name of religion is still abuse.

[@anafee_07]

the fact that these people were brave enough to escape and find a place in the world for themselves is so inspiring......I am so happy for each and every survivor who found their way in the world ❤‍🩹

[@4evaavfc]

It is amazing how LDS folk deny and/or lie about their history, theology and crimes.

[@pinkbambi13]

What a courageous man. Breaks my heart to hear what he went through 😢

[@livingwisdomcommunity]

I appreciate your sensitivity not only to your audience, but especially to the people you interview.

[@eleesab4883]

Val, you are such an a cool human! Thank you so much for sharing your story!

[@Wodenseyes]

Oh my god. When he started taking about his dad sexually abusing him I literally started crying. I have such a good relationship with my dad, I can’t imagine him ever doing anything like that to anyone. The way this poor kid much have so many issues makes me wanna go find the entire JDK clan.

[@crystalmoonbeam]

I cannot understand how any parent could harm their child in anyway, more or less in such a disgusting way as this. I also do not understand how this “father” kicked him out for being gay while also being this child’s first gay experience. My heart breaks for him and the same time, I am so proud of him for facing his adversity head on! Val is a hero

[@trekpac2]

Shelise, I am so thankful that you are doing such important work of helping individuals who have been exploited. Your story has made me more aware of dangerous cults in our midst. Thanks from my heart.

[@CultstoConsciousness]

Hi! Thank you so much. ❤️

[@Mama_T_448]

Love Val ❤❤❤❤ Thanks again for bringing beautiful humans here to share their stories xox

[@CultstoConsciousness]

Thanks for supporting!❤️

[@mikalin9286]

Can’t believe I missed this when it came out! Val is always so cool- can’t wait to listen to them speak🦋

[@sawace1]

Val, don't feel bad about laughing. My dark humor gets me through a lot, going to my therapy sessions has helped me feel safe with anger and sadness.

[@Tobysmommas]

As a survivor, I smile as well! People heal differently, we’re happy to be out of these situations 😍

[@joybland5072]

Shelise, thank you for bringing these cults into the light. I have been watching you for quite a while now. I also re watched an older show called Today I Found Out...which I watched a couple years ago and was surprised to see you on that show.

[@CultstoConsciousness]

Thank you for watching! Was that the reincarnation show? They have changed the name so many times

[@joybland5072]

@@CultstoConsciousness yes it was the reincarnation show

[@cindyelliott6235]

Thank you for sharing your story. I hope sharing brings you some healing & hope.

[@ChantalMonette]

The light that Val has managed to keep through all this is truly inspiring. I'm so glad that he found his way out of the cult and that he found his freedom and true self

[@susanreilly5015]

Thank you for the link. I’m so happy that Val’s married. You are so strong and such a true inspiration

[@lunkis3233]

Thank you Val for your bravery sharing your story. Hugs from Sweden 🇸🇪

[@godhasgas]

What a sweet human being ❤️ thanks for sharing with us

[@lalaellen]

Quick correction , his Memory Gem oath is almost exactly what we, mainstream LDS covenant to do in the temple. It's a very serious oath and taken literally still in the mainstream church.

[@rosehannah4845]

Jesus said not to make oaths.

[@shellyjohnson8491]

That was so fun to watch! Thank you 😊

[@stephaniefairey8633]

My grandma had 17 kids - and she wasn't even Mormon! She told me it was because they didn't have television.

[@TheNolarm]

Val, you are brave and I'm so grateful you shared your story. The more these evil men are exposed, the more, I hope, they will have to answer for their crimes.

[@Valiant.Unicorn]

❤🦄🦋

[@Miriboheme]

i'm so happy you went and reported it to the police. even if it was past the statute of limitations, it was a positive, healing action on your part. love and peace to you, man.