Hidden Struggles: Recent Episodes

Lady Cee

Becoming part of this growing community provides the perfect opportunity to learn valuable life lessons without experiencing the drama. This is a motivational podcast exploring real life issues. After escaping from a high control group, I am sharing my experiences about what it is like living in a world without the mental boundaries that kept me from exploring my dreams, goals and realities. This platform will deliver experiences that help others to overcome personal struggles and showing you how you can take those struggles and use them to your advantage. Perhaps through this podcast, I can help others to learn my life lessons without having to experience the pain.

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In this gripping and emotional video, I share my personal journey of being shunned by my Jehovah's Witness family, orchestrated by the strict rules of the Governing Body. When my mother passed away, her devout sister refused to extend even a word of condolence, showcasing the harsh reality of shunning within the organization.

Join me as I expose how the Jehovah's Witness Governing Body exerts control over its members, dictating who they can and cannot communicate with, all in the name of receiving blessings from Jehovah. We'll also delve into the chaos and confusion caused by their inconsistent rules, such as the controversial changes on men wearing beards and women wearing pants, and how these shifts impact the lives of the faithful.

This video is a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the true cost of leaving a high-control religion. It's not just about shunning; it's about family, faith, and the pain inflicted by the Governing Body's authoritarian rule. Click to uncover the real story behind the facade and learn about the emotional toll of breaking free.

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In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode, Lady Cee welcomes Ms. Ivy back to the show for a third heartfelt discussion. This time, Ms. Ivy shares the painful reality of parental alienation fueled by religious disfellowshipping within the Jehovah's Witnesses community. Despite having legal custody of her 16-year-old daughter, Ms. Ivy faces the heartbreak of her daughter choosing to live with her father, driven by the divisive policies of disfellowshipping because Ms. Ivy is no longer a part of the organization.

Through Ms. Ivy's story, we delve into the complex layers of faith, family, and the high cost of standing by one's convictions. This episode sheds light on the emotional and psychological toll of disfellowshipping, not just on those who decide to leave the faith, but also on the innocent family members caught in the crossfire.

Join us as we explore the challenges and consequences of religious practices on personal relationships, the journey of finding one's path after leaving a high-control group, and the resilience needed to rebuild one's life and identity in the aftermath.

🔹 Connect with Us:
We invite you to share your thoughts, experiences, and words of support in the comments. Your voice matters in this conversation. For more discussions on overcoming adversity, finding your voice, and rebuilding your life after leaving high-control groups, subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes.

Join Lady Cee on "Hidden Struggles" as she delves into the compelling story of Ivy, a former Jehovah's Witness who shares her journey of faith, doubt, and eventual departure from the religion. In this revealing episode, Ivy recounts her early introduction to the faith through her family, the challenges of fitting in, and the pivotal moments that led her to question and ultimately leave the religion she was once a part of.

From the struggles of living a life deemed "debauched" by her community to the profound impact of global events like 9/11 on her faith journey, Ivy's story is a testament to the complexity of religious identity and the courage it takes to seek one's own path. Lady Cee and Ivy explore the themes of belonging, the pressures of conformity, and the liberating yet challenging process of breaking free from a high-control religion.

This episode is not just Ivy's story; it's a conversation about the broader experiences of those who find themselves at a crossroads between faith and personal freedom. Whether you're navigating your own doubts, interested in the dynamics of religious communities, or simply in search of a story of resilience and self-discovery, this episode offers insights, empathy, and encouragement.

Tune in to "Hidden Struggles" for an intimate look at the journey beyond the faith of our forebears, and discover the hidden struggles many face in the pursuit of authenticity and freedom.

Listen now to hear Ivy's full story and join the conversation about faith, freedom, and finding oneself beyond the boundaries of belief.

In this powerful and inspiring video, we follow Ivy's courageous journey of breaking free from the Jehovah's Witnesses and stepping into a world of newfound freedom and self-discovery. Witness the challenges and triumphs as Ivy navigates the complexities of building a life outside the confines of the Watchtower, armed with nothing but her resilience and determination to forge a brighter, more authentic future.

From the initial doubts to the final decision to leave, and through the ups and downs that follow, this video offers an intimate look into the emotional and transformative path that many ex-Jehovah's Witnesses embark upon. Ivy's story is a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Join us as we explore the realities of starting over, the importance of community and support, and the endless possibilities that come with choosing to live on one's own terms. Whether you're someone who has gone through a similar journey or you're simply drawn to stories of personal evolution and bravery, Ivy's story will move and inspire you.

In this video, Lady Cee shares her personal experience with long-term care insurance following an accident. She discusses the realities of activating her policy, providing insights into the often-overlooked aspects of insurance coverage.

Key points covered include:

The 90-day waiting period in long-term care policies and its implications.
The specific criteria required for care coverage.
The importance of understanding your policy's details and preparing for unexpected situations.
The role of an advocate in managing your care and insurance, especially in cases of incapacitation.
Real-life examples of how others have navigated their long-term care situations.

This video is essential for anyone who has or is considering long-term care insurance. Lady Cee's experience offers valuable lessons on the nuances of these policies and the importance of being well-informed about your coverage.

🔗 Follow Lady Cee for more insights and join her in upcoming episodes for further discussions.

exjwsthink #exjwcomedy #exjwcriticalthinker #hiddenstruggles #homeless

In this episode, I share a memorable moment from my hospital stay. The focus is on a conversation with my doctor, who was discussing post-discharge care plans with me. Amidst our discussion, he raised a crucial question, "Do you have a place to stay after leaving the hospital?" This led to an unexpected and amusing turn in our conversation, which I embraced with humor and laughter. Join me in recounting this light-hearted episode during a serious moment in my life. LOL.

On December 2, 2023, I was in a car accident. I am recovering from a fractured sternum. This has been a difficult process, but you have to remain calm and keep your chin up because although it is a long road to recovery, eventually we will find our way through the bumps and bruises.

In this episode of Hidden Struggles, I dive into a crucial topic that concerns your privacy in a hospital setting. Join me as I discuss why it might be in your best interest to keep your former Jehovah's Witness status confidential during medical visits. I'll share my personal insights and experiences, shedding light on the potential consequences of revealing your past affiliation. This is essential information that every former JW should consider when seeking medical care. Be sure to safeguard your privacy during your hospital stay.

Irving Janis (1918-1990) coined the term GROUPTHINK
Irving Janis was a 20th century social psychologist who identified the phenomenon of groupthink.

https://www.goodtherapy.org/famous-psychologists/irving-janis.html

DISC Personality Test
https://www.discprofile.com/what-is-disc/disc-styles

Dominance - A person primarily in this DiSC quadrant places emphasis on accomplishing results and “seeing the big picture.” They are confident, sometimes blunt, outspoken, and demanding.

Influencer - A person in this DiSC quadrant places emphasis on influencing or persuading others. They tend to be enthusiastic, optimistic, open, trusting, and energetic.

Steadiness - A person in this DiSC quadrant places emphasis on cooperation, sincerity, loyalty, and dependability. They tend to have calm, deliberate dispositions, and don’t like to be rushed.

Conscientious - A person in this DiSC quadrant places emphasis on quality and accuracy, expertise and competency. They enjoy their independence, demand the details, and often fear being wrong.

Beyond Briggs Myers' 16 Types, Find Your True Strengths
https://www.truity.com/test/type-finder-personality-test-new

Join us in this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of the Hidden Struggles Podcast, as we sit down with Phylice, who courageously shares her journey 'From Faith to Freedom.' Phylice takes us through her awakening from the Jehovah's Witnesses, a journey fraught with personal challenges, probing questions, and intimate revelations.

She recounts the painful experience of being disfellowshipped, privately reproved, and subjected to judicial meetings, where elders demanded personal details about the sins she confessed. But Phylice's story is not just one of struggle; it's one of triumph and love as well.

During a life-changing visit to her cousin in Colorado, Phylice met her future husband, a dedicated Military man who became the catalyst for her ultimate liberation from the faith. Together, they navigated the complex and painful process of cutting ties with the Jehovah's Witness community.

But Phylice's journey didn't end there. She opens up about the struggles of being shunned by her family, the painful decision to write a letter of disassociation, and the emotional toll it took on her. Yet, through it all, she found strength, resilience, and a new life of authenticity and joy.

Tune in to hear Phylice's inspiring story, filled with lessons of courage, self-discovery, and the pursuit of true freedom. Whether you're familiar with the Jehovah's Witness faith or just intrigued by tales of personal transformation, Phylice's story will touch your heart and inspire your spirit.

JWFamilyTalks #ChatGPTInsights #RespectfulConversations#JehovahsWitness #ChatGPT #FamilyConversations #ARC #UnitedNations #exjw

🔍 Unlock JW Insights with ChatGPT: ARC, United Nations, and Family Conversations 🗣️

Discover how I used ChatGPT to uncover crucial information about Jehovah's Witnesses and their connection to the Australian Royal Commission (ARC) and the United Nations. Learn how to navigate these sensitive topics and initiate meaningful conversations with your JW family. Let's foster understanding and open dialogue together!

👉 Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:48 - ChatGPT helps you discover the truth about ARC
02:29 - Click Link to learn how to create a FREE ChatGPT account
04:22 - ChatGPT unveils JW's & the United Nations

🔔 Subscribe for more insights and advice on respectful conversations within the JW community.

Have you ever found yourself in a public setting, like a doctor's office, surrounded by a crowd of people, when the person attending to you requests your date of birth? Now, you're standing amidst a roomful of individuals, disclosing personal information for everyone to hear. The conversation lacks discretion as the person asking for your details speaks loudly while the room remains silent. How would you handle this situation?

This episode will showcase numerous instances where I was requested to divulge my personal information and detail my approach in handling those situations.

It's remarkable how our employment journey presents us with numerous decisions, and it's not uncommon to encounter choices that may lead to regret. In this episode, I delve into a personal experience where I had to make a crucial decision between accepting full-time employment as a teller or opting for a more financially challenging path that promised long-term career benefits and personal fulfillment in the future. Join me as I discuss the factors I considered, the sacrifices I had to make, and the valuable lessons I learned along the way.

"Look Beyond the Surface: Avoid Judging a Book by Its Cover" is a thought-provoking concept that reminds us of the importance of withholding judgments based solely on outward appearances. This phrase serves as a powerful reminder to delve deeper into people, situations, or objects before forming opinions. It encourages a mindset of openness, empathy, and understanding, emphasizing the significance of exploring the intricacies and complexities that lie beyond initial impressions. By embracing this perspective, we gain the ability to uncover hidden depths, appreciate diverse perspectives, and truly understand the essence of what lies beneath the surface. This mantra serves as a guiding principle for cultivating tolerance, compassion, and a genuine appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world around us.

Numerous individuals find themselves overwhelmed by the burdens of their past. This video serves as an empowering reminder to embrace the possibility of a vibrant and fulfilling life. It encourages you to gather the fragments of your experiences, embarking on a fresh journey right from your current position, as a catalyst for living and savoring the joys of life.

Life presents us with a myriad of choices, and individuals vary in their approach to taking risks and staying motivated to accomplish their goals. While some rely on faith and hope as they navigate their journey, others embrace a determined mindset, firmly believing that where there's a will, there's always a way. In this episode, I share my personal perspective of being driven by the conviction that I have the power to make things happen. Join me as I explore the interplay between motivation, resilience, and the unwavering determination to overcome obstacles and achieve success in life.

In this episode, I'm talking all about that academic advisor that does not give you that extra shot in the arm. If they are working for the college, you would think they would be trying to sell classes. I was already down in the dumps once I discovered that the credits from business school would not transfer. All I needed was that little extra push to help me be on my way to getting back in school and on the right track.

Of course, I had my own decisions to make as well, so its not just the fault of the advisor, but this episode represents how I felt at the time and especially after looking back at how things could have been different if I had a better advisor.

In this episode, I delve into a candid exploration of the invaluable lessons I gleaned from the experience of losing my job. Join me as I reflect upon the challenges, setbacks, and personal growth that emerged from this pivotal moment in my life. Through sharing my story, I aim to provide valuable insights and inspiration for those navigating similar circumstances, offering a perspective that embraces resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of learning from adversity.

exjw #hiddenstruggles #GoverningBody #exjwcriticalthinker

John Whitworth quote
https://vancouversun.com/news/staff-blogs/are-trevor-linden-and-mats-sundin-bigger-than-jesus

Are Trevor Linden, and Mats Sundin, bigger than Jesus?
Get the latest from Douglas Todd straight to your inbox

Author
Douglas Todd

In this article “Are Trevor Linden, and Mats Sundin, bigger than Jesus?”
written by Douglas Todd, published on December 22, 2008 you are able to get the full context surrounding John Whitworth’s comment about sports. Please refer to the link in the description.

In his book The Joy of Sports, U.S. philosopher Michael Novak makes the case that sports is a positive secular religion.

Although University of B.C. physical education Prof. Bob Sparks thinks Novak pushed his argument too far, he says there’s little doubt that for decades sports has been helping displace organized religion.
The Joy of Sports theorized that sports “connects us to deep metaphysical things in ourselves,” Sparks said. “It said sports tests us and draws on the deepest essence of our being.”

Sports spectators, Novak wrote, “go to the altar of the game to reconfirm their beliefs.” Like religious festivals, Novak said “sports are seasonal and cyclical, not linear like most of our lives.”

In such books as Inner Tennis or Golf and the Kingdom, Sparks said writers developed the idea that sports are a spiritual discipline through which athletes can attain “peak experiences.”

Simon Fraser University sociologist John Whitworth, however, said sports provides a pale imitation of religion. Though sports provide ritual, tradition and “emotional expression in a group setting,” Whitworth said sports “merely ginger up fans’ lives . . . They provide something interesting in an otherwise uninteresting life.”

Sports don’t give the ultimate things which religions claim, such as “ultimate meaning in life or salvation,” Whitworth said. “At the end of the game, all you have is a list of statistics. It all seems rather rootless. However, I suppose that fits with our society.”

In this episode, I'm talking about my experience running into an old friend at the post office. Of course, as all Jehovah's Witnesses look at bad news and events happening around the world, he too, believes it has a significant meaning. His entire demeanor wreaked of the attitude, "we're living in the last days and this is going to be the final straw".

Oh yeah right, things can't get any worse because Jehovah is going to bring destruction to this wicked world.

During our conversation, he's talking about Uncle Joe (aka, the current president of the United States, Joe Biden), and talking about why the banks are failing because Biden is giving all of this money to the Ukraine. He also asked me about what I thought about the debt ceiling too because you know he's connecting all of his dots. And at the same time, looking at me side-eyed because he feels sorry for me for leaving the organization.

Meanwhile I'm starring in his direction feeling bad for him because he's at the end of the yellow brick road but fails to see that there is really no one behind the curtain. He's simply clueless and may as well be searching for Mary Poppins at this point in time because in the past 140 years, the Watchtower has failed to deliver on any of their promises.

Regardless of what happens, I am not looking forward to living in a world full of Jehovah's Witnesses. Yes, the people that only want to arrive at to their supposed destination no matter who they have to step on to get there.

The message I left this brother is all about how at the end of the day, your vote counts because we have to maintain some kind of law and order while we are on this planet. There is no getting around it. You cannot live in a community and refuse to participate especially when you need the same benefits other people are striving to attain.

https://youtu.be/1sWtOe3hkYY

In this presentation, you will learn several ideas about how allowing the governing body of Jehovah's Witnesses can results in severe consequences.

Eva is from upstate New York and one of eight siblings. She was a fifth generation Jehovah's Witness and her parents and grand parents her Holocaust survivors. All her siblings are still active in the organization. Eva has over twenty years’ experience in accounting and has decades of experience in investigating retail financial fraud and management. Eva is an advocate for individuals struggling with leaving high control religions and supporting their efforts to rejoin society. Eva has a commitment in life to be a compassionate Christian and have love for all individuals.

WITNESSING FREEDOM
https://witnessingfreedom.org/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kindertransport_%E2%80%93_The_Arrival
https://kindertransport-memorial.org/
https://www.hmd.org.uk/learn-about-the-holocaust-and-genocides/the-holocaust/kindertransport-refugees/

RECOVERING FROM SPIRITUAL ABUSE
David Henke
https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Abuse-Recovery-Workbook-educational-ebook/dp/B09CF1FK4R

Nicky & Vera: A Quiet Hero of the Holocaust and the Children He Rescued
https://www.amazon.com/Nicky-Vera-Holocaust-Children-Rescued/dp/1324015748

Join us behind the scenes on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/exjwcriticalthinker

Check out our videos on why we left the Why We Left the Jehovah's Witnesses

https://youtu.be/rqYUCV4FHI4
https://youtu.be/bLaSB9P2MEE

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Nicky & Vera: A Quiet Hero of the Holocaust and the Children He Rescued

In this episode, I am sharing my experience on how I got creative on a limited budget. This is not something that everyone may personally accomplish on their own. However, with the assistance of others, you can accomplish the same thing.

The information in this video represents how you can do anything if you put your mind to it. You are only limited by your imagination. If you have courage and strength, you can find a way to get things done even during the most turbulent moment in your life.

Stuck in a Rut – After Leaving a Bad Relationship or controlling high control group?

00:00 Intro
01:38 Failing Forward, John C. Maxwell
02:12 Set Goals
02:59 No Shortcuts
04:22 Community College
04:51 Careeronestop.org
05:57 Five Minutes to Funny
06:32 Lady Cee Clip on the Improv
07:25 First Paid Speech - Women's History Month
07:42 Toastmaster's
08:24 Amazon Vine Reviewer
09:57 Creative Studio - Computer Training
12:12 Scanning Project (Canon R40)

Not having any goals.(Ours is a world where people don’t know what they want and are willing to go through hell to get it. They don’t have goals because they don’t possess a desire to dream. Try to discover why you are on this planet and once you’ve discovered that, you will know what to shoot for.)

A short cut mind set.(One of the most common obstacles to success is the desire to cut corners and take the short road to success. But shortcuts never pay off in the long run. As Napoleon said, “victory belongs to the most persevering. To be successful, you must be willing to pay your dues. Cutting corners is a sign of impatience and poor self-discipline).

Failing Forward – Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success by John C. Maxwell
Link to RECOMMENDED READING
https://www.amazon.com/shop/exjwcriticalthinker/list/1BGWT4EA71XL0

Creative Studio 101
https://www.youtube.com/@creativestudio1012

Spreadshirt Tee Shirts
https://hidden-struggles1.myspreadshop.com/

Careeronestop.org
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. A proud partner of the American Job Center Network

SCANNER
Canon Image Scanner R40

AMAZON VINE EXPERIENCES

How to Get Free Amazon Vine Products
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6Cmcu-t8Hs&t=134s

How to Become an Amazon Vine Reviewer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Hk6a_u-nm0&t=6s

Why I stopped having packages shipped to the USPS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_9VfR1UiRo&t=4s

Improvisation
https://www.precipiceimprov.com/

In this video, Lady Cee discusses the need to advocate for the elderly. As Jehovah's Witnesses, we never took time to plan for our future. This video helps you to think about getting your mind right to accept certain things we cannot change and learn how to deal with the consequences.

It also delves into keeping up and pace with technology because you never want to be in a situation where you are unable to communicate with our family and friends if you ever find yourself as a shut in.

Be sure to check out my Creative Studio 101 to learn more ab out computers https://www.youtube.com/@creativestudio1012/videos

Guest: Demarquis L. Johnson

In this episode, Lady Cee discusses a range of issues related to seeking therapy with guest Demarquis Johnson as it relates to with individuals experiencing depression. Demarquis talks about why your therapist mostly listens and does not provide much feedback.

How to find a therapist
Do your home work prior to choosing a therapist, ask around and read reviews
Going to Therapy requires work on your part
Therapist is there to listen (must limit their liability when providing feedback)
Therapy is not a magic bullet
Social Media Problem is worse than drugs
Surround yourself with positive people

In this podcast, I'm talking about the format of this platform and some of the topics I will discuss.

We're gonna have some fun on this platform, getting to know each other and how to tackle life's most difficult challenges.

I'm so excited to share my life experiences hoping that it can give you a lesson that you won't have to experience.

Hidden Struggles is all about learning life lessons without going through the experience. While, this opening teaser gives you an glimpse of what the show will discuss, it really does not touch the tip of the iceberg.

This podcast will discuss issues pertaining to relationships, self-esteem, and how to learn from life lessons at every opportunity.