Episode 118 – Bethel Burnout – Matt is shunned by Jehovah’s Witnesses

From the time he was 12, Matt had to work. With his father’s vices taking the family’s money and groceries to put on the table, Matt stepped up. That started young Matt down the path to workaholism which would be put to the test as he went through life, at times taking care of his dad after his parents divorced, and later taking that same dedication to his dad on to the cult of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Serving at one of the highest esteemed places in the organization, within the headquarters facilities, Matt’s ability to continue dedicating his everything to others that gave him little in return would be pushed beyond its limits.

The song that Matt chose to represent his journey is Never Going Back by Skillet.

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This podcast was made possible by my original podcast This JW Life. You can find it on any podcast app or on YouTube. It is a 9 part series about life as Jehovah’s Witnesses designed to help you understand how it worked in one comprehensive story and to help you process your own if you came from that environment.

Music provided by Jane and the Boy, entitled Save Myself.

4 thoughts on “Episode 118 – Bethel Burnout – Matt is shunned by Jehovah’s Witnesses”

  1. Matt, Wow.. this was definitely one of the best interviews that I ever heard. I truly could relate to everything that you were saying. I WAS also a born in. You seriously beat the odds and were able to rebound. This gives so many of us who have left, some great encouragement. We ALL WE BEAT WATCHTOWER AT THEIR VERY SICK GAMES FULL OF DECEPTION. WATCHTOWER IS GOING DOWN. MORE AND MORE EX JWS ARE TELLING THEIR STORY. Congratulations on your escape and to your freedom. You definitely deserve it. What a story. Wow!!!!!

  2. Matt. We served together at Bethel and even went to EMT school together. Its great to hear you are free. I am currently planning my escape from this cult. Your story is inspiring. Take care bro!!!!

  3. Thank you so much for your kind words. It’s always encouraging to know that we aren’t alone in our departure from the organization. I’ve never been happier and I would tell any new departures to keep their head high and enjoy their new freedom to the full. I hope that you also are living your best life and enjoying every ounce of freedom

  4. Hey Matt. I can’t state my name but I am an old friend of yours. You were appointed an elder in my hall and we used to share music ideas with each other. Seeing that you are free from this organization has totally made my day. I’ve been wondering how you are doing and now I know. I wanted to say thank you for sharing your story. When we were in the same hall you were always a good person, and I can see that you’re still a good man . Keep living it up bro! You’re free! We’re free now! And I’ll shoot some music your way. And by the way….thanks for the music studio, I still use it to this very day. Catch ya bro.

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