In this episode, Laura is joined by Dan Miller for his fifth visit to the show to dissect the complex intersections of modern masculinity and religious extremism. Using Senator Josh Hawley's book as a primary case study, the discussion explores why certain conservative movements choose the biblical figure of Adam over Jesus as their primary archetype for manhood. This shift reflects a broader desire for a dominant alpha male figure that aligns more closely with imperial power than the humble and sacrificial themes found in the Gospels. The conversation examines how this ideological framework feeds into a larger pipeline connecting the secular manosphere with high control religious environments, offering men a sense of certainty and hierarchy in an increasingly unstable world.

The dialogue also addresses the genuine social crises contributing to male loneliness and identity loss, such as economic shifts and a lack of community purpose. Rather than providing constructive solutions, these movements often redirect valid frustrations toward marginalized groups or a nostalgic, mythic vision of the Roman Empire. Miller and Laura explore the psychological defense mechanisms of aggression and the difficulty many men face when sitting with insecurity or trauma. The episode concludes by highlighting healthier alternatives to traditional patriarchy, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, collaborative parenting, and the quiet strength found in caring professions and civic engagement.

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This podcast is brought to you by the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery: an online trauma coaching company whose practitioners are trauma informed and trauma trained to work with individuals, couples and families who have experienced high control religion, cults, and religious trauma. For more information on the support that CTRR provides, for resources–including courses, workshops, and more–head to traumaresolutionandrecovery.com or follow us on Instagram: @traumaresolutionandrecovery

The views and opinions expressed by Sunday School Dropouts are those of the hosts and not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery. Any of the content provided by our guests, sponsors, authors, or bloggers are their own ideas and opinions.

The Sunday School Dropouts podcast is not anti-religion but it is anti -harm, -power and control, -oppression and, -abuse and will speak to the harmful practices and messaging of fundamentalist groups.

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Hosts:

Laura Anderson and Andrew Kerbs

Music by Benjamin Faye Music @heytherebenji