EP 156 This Was Supposed To Be The Place #3: The Devil’s Doorstep, How Purity Culture Controlled Our Thoughts, Bodies, and Relationships

Purity culture wasn’t just a set of rules—it was a full-blown system of fear, shame, and control that dictated everything from dating to what we wore to whether or not we could even think about smashing without disappointing God. In this episode, I take a deep dive into how purity culture shaped my childhood, warped my understanding of relationships, and made me legitimately believe I was going to hell for shucking the corn at 13. From forced confession sessions to the bizarre ways we were taught to see each other as “brothers and sisters in Christ,” this episode unpacks the weird, uncomfortable, and straight-up damaging ways the church tried to keep us "pure."

But this isn't just about the past—purity culture’s grip doesn’t just disappear overnight. Even today, I catch myself fighting against the messages drilled into me as a kid, and I know I’m not the only one. Whether you grew up in this world or you’re just here for the wild ride, this episode breaks down how purity culture ultimately benefits men, how it oversexualizes women, and how we can start to unlearn the shame we were never meant to carry. Buckle up—this one’s a doozy.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Clemenz With a Z. Your support means everything to me and helps keep these conversations going.

Purity culture left so many of us with shame, guilt, and confusion—but talking about it? That’s how we take our power back.

If you were a part of the ICOC, ICC, or any high-control religious group and purity culture shaped your experience in ways you’re still unpacking, I’d love to hear from you. You’re not alone in this, and together, we can continue exploring the question, ‘We were in a cult?’—and maybe even start to heal from it.

You can reach me via email at clemenzwithaz@gmail.com, or send me a DM on Instagram at the Clemenz With a Z podcast page.

And if this episode resonated with you, please rate and review—it helps more people find these stories.

And remember: I’m just a channel, I ain’t the source.

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Until next time, take care of yourself, trust your gut, and unlearn the shame you were never meant to carry.  Peace!"