52: Being Raised in the FLDS Polygamist Cult

Natasha J. Layton grew up inside the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS), a closed polygamist cult where Warren Jeffs dictated every part of family life and enforced a strict hierarchy. As 1 of 20 siblings in a household built around a father with multiple wives at the same time, Natasha shares the pressure, physical abuse, fear, and isolation that shaped childhood in a high control religious community. She describes the emotional and psychological toll of growing up in a system rooted in control, obedience, and spiritual manipulation. Girls were raised to submit and serve, while boys were raised under strict obedience to priesthood leaders.Natasha also opens up about losing 5 brothers to suicide and the grief that followed her long after leaving the FLDS, while navigating her own suicide attempts and the darkness she carried for years. She speaks about the deep generational trauma, the silence surrounding mental health, and the lack of support families received inside a group that punished vulnerability. Her story brings needed attention to cult recovery, suicide prevention, and the hidden pain carried by survivors who grew up in high demand religious environments. Natasha’s voice is a reminder of how important it is to break cycles that were designed to keep people trapped and to tell the truth even when it hurts.Natasha’s Socialswww.instagram.com/natashajlaytonwww.tiktok.com/@natashajlaytonwww.facebook.com/share/178BB9xFnM/?mibextid=wwXIfrThe Survivors Podcastthesurvivors.netwww.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcastwww.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcastwww.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannelResources:RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)24/7 confidential support, online chat & hotline 1-800-656-HOPEhttps://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/NSVRC (National Sexual Violence Resource Center)https://www.nsvrc.orgCrisis Text Line741741Suicide and Crisis Lifeline988SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)1-800-662-HELP (4357)Beyond the Monsters Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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