Cult Survivor | Podcaster | Writer

Andrew Pledger is a cult survivor, podcaster, writer, and freelance social media manager. Raised in the Independent Fundamental Baptist cult, he discovered his queer identity and was determined to leave the group. He eventually escaped the cult after being expelled from Bob Jones University, an insular fundamentalist college. He graduated from Southern New Hampshire University with a BA in General Studies/Psychology, intending to help other survivors.

To understand and recover from his cult upbringing, Andrew immersed himself in cult education. He now uses his experiences and knowledge to raise awareness. His podcasts, Surviving Bob Jones University and Beyond BJU: Exposing Fundamentalism, shed light on the harms of Christian fundamentalism. Andrew believes in the power of survivors’ stories to bring awareness and spark change. His work has been featured in MSN, Yahoo News, and the Religion News Service. Andrew currently resides in Greenville, SC, where he is finishing his memoir.

Andrew works in social media for cult experts. He works for the NYT-featured podcast, IndoctriNation, with Rachel Bernstein LMFT, Cult Specialist. He also works for the non-profit organization, the Lalich Center, which was started by renowned cult expert, Dr. Janja Lalich. This organization helps survivors of cults and coercive situations. Andrew perseveres in raising his voice to inspire and empower fellow survivors. Learn More