Episode Summary
In this episode, Brianna shares her journey growing up in a high-control religious environment and the impact of her mother leaving a restrictive sect while pregnant. She reflects on the effects of purity culture, shame around sexuality, and years of believing she had a sex addiction. Brianna discusses reclaiming her identity, separating her beliefs from her upbringing, and finding empowerment. The episode closes with a message of hope, emphasising the importance of self-discovery and the value of personal stories.
Who Is Brianna?
Brianna Bell is a Canadian journalist and essayist whose work has been featured in The New York Times, The Guardian, The Globe & Mail, CBC, and more. Brianna’s memoir, God Lover, will be published by Toronto’s Dundurn Press in 2027.
Connect
- Brianna’s Website – https://www.briannabellwriter.com/
- Connect on socials – Substack, Threads, or Instagram
- You can find out more about Sam on her website – www.anchoredcounsellingservices.com.au
- To connect with Sam on Instagram – @anchoredcounsellingservices
- Want to contact with Sam about the podcast or therapy? Use this contact form.
- Also check out The Religious Trauma Collective