Andrew Pledger
Andrew Pledger
Hidden Homeschoolers (Gothard's ATI) - Heather Heath - S1E30
Hidden Homeschoolers (Gothard's ATI) - Heather Heath - S1E30
Hidden Homeschoolers (Gothard's ATI) - Heather Heath - S1E30
Monday 21st November 2022
Heather Heath shares her experience in Bill Gothard's ATI homeschooling program and her advocacy for children's rights on 'Speaking Up with Andrew Pledger'.
Explicit
56 minutes
Informative
Thought-provoking
Raw
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Empowering
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Author:
Andrew Pledger
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Categories:
Healing from Sexual Trauma
Religion & Spirituality
Recovery from Trauma
Healing Relationships
Spiritual & Personal Growth Journeys
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Get the buttons here!Heather Heath's Brave Journey: From Homeschooling Darkness to Advocacy
It's much easier to be in a cult than not. And we're like: f*** this, we have to leave.
Imagine growing up in a world where your education is a tool of control rather than empowerment. Heather Heath knows this all too well. In this episode of 'Speaking Up with Andrew Pledger', Heather opens up about her life within Bill Gothard's ATI (Advanced Training Institute) homeschooling program. She was homeschooled her entire life, never receiving a diploma or accreditation, and had to relearn everything about the world when she left.
Her story, captured in her book 'Lovingly Abused', reveals the hidden struggles and legal educational neglect that many homeschoolers face in the U.S. Heather's journey didn't stop at merely escaping; she became a paramedic, a career path not traditionally allowed for women in her community. She now fights to expose the shortcomings and abuses of such homeschooling programs, advocating for children's rights and educational reform.
Her candid discussion with Andrew Pledger sheds light on the often-overlooked dark side of homeschooling, where control extends to every aspect of life, from the information received to the clothes worn. Heather's story is more than just a personal narrative; it's a call to action. She highlights the importance of supporting hidden homeschoolers who suffer in silence and are often neglected by the legal system.
Her goal is to bring awareness to these issues and provide a support network for those affected by religious trauma and educational neglect. If you're interested in understanding the complexities of homeschooling within strict religious frameworks and the fight for children's rights, this episode is a must-listen. Heather Heath's bravery and advocacy work serve as an inspiration for anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.