Our Stories: Escaping IHOPKC - An Interview With Alyssa Hammond - Episode 207 Research Podcast

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:
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The podcast features John Collins interviewing Alyssa Hammond, a former member of the International House of Prayer (IHOP). Alyssa recounts her childhood experiences growing up in IHOP and her struggles with the organization’s intense focus on eschatology and prophetic messages. Her father was deeply connected to the movement, leading the family to relocate to Kansas City when she was 13. As a teenager, Alyssa was drawn into the culture of IHOP, participating in activities such as dance and prophecy teams. However, despite her outward participation, Alyssa internally wrestled with fear, anxiety, and a sense of doom brought on by IHOP’s teachings about the end times. The conversation reveals the deep emotional toll the movement had on her, and she reflects on how her belief system was shaped by leaders like Mike Bickle and Bob Jones.

As the discussion progresses, Alyssa shares her adult life after leaving IHOP. She describes how the remnants of IHOP's teachings affected her mental and physical health. The constant pressure to perform spiritually and the community's emphasis on the end of the world left her feeling exhausted and unsure of her future. Alyssa also touches on her gradual shift away from IHOP's rigid belief system, allowing herself the freedom to question long-held teachings. She highlights the difficulty of processing her past, dealing with feelings of isolation, and balancing her current faith with her past indoctrination. The interview ends on a note of encouragement for others who have left or are considering leaving similar movements.

00:00 Introduction
01:08 Alyssa’s Childhood in IHOP
03:32 Daily Life in IHOP: Prophecy and Dance Teams
06:04 Coping with Fear and End-Time Theology
09:16 Cult Doctrines and Childhood Trauma
12:24 Leaving IHOP and Initial Reflections
15:01 Family Influences and Struggles with Belief
18:49 Bob Jones and the Mythology of IHOP Leaders
20:50 IHOP’s Influence on Personal Faith and Theology
25:03 Physical and Mental Health Challenges After IHOP
30:45 Changes in Family and Faith Practices Post-Cult
36:03 Learning the Gospel and Re-Evaluating Theology
40:56 Life After IHOP: Parenting and Personal Growth
45:00 Advice for Others Leaving Cult-like Movements
50:45 The Challenges of Finding New Faith Communities
55:08 Closing Remarks
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