Ex-jehovah's Witnesses-critical Thinkers » Critical Thought Podcast

Send us a textWhat happens when a religion tells millions of people that higher education is “dangerous”?For decades, Jehovah’s Witnesses were discouraged from going to college. It wasn’t a written ban, but elders, conventions, and Watchtower publications reinforced the message until it became a cultural rule. Careers, scholarships, and futures were lost.In this panel discussion, JT and Lady Cee sit down with fellow former Jehovah’s Witnesses to share how this teaching shaped their lives. Together we’ll cover:• The talks, articles, and letters used to discourage education.• How elders enforced it in local congregations.• Real stories from EXJWs who lost opportunities, scholarships, or careers.• The sudden shift: why the Watchtower now calls it a “matter of conscience.”• The lasting impact on finances, self-worth, and family life.

Send us a textWhen the former Prime Minister of Japan was assassinated in 2022, the investigation uncovered deep ties between the attacker and a high-control religious group known as the Moonies. That tragedy set off a chain reaction in Japan—one that now has the spotlight turning toward Jehovah’s Witnesses.In this video, JT breaks down:Why the Governing Body suddenly shifted on higher educationHow Japan’s new laws are classifying forced religious acts as child abuseThe “second generation” issue and why it hits home for ex-JWsThe role of money, lawsuits, and government scrutiny in Watchtower’s recent changesWe’ll also unpack Watchtower’s so-called “independent study” in Japan—and why it may not be as independent as they claim.

Send us a textEpisode uploaded from April 18, 2025This week, millions of Christians reflect on Jesus — especially during the Easter season. But for Jehovah’s Witnesses, that relationship is framed in a very different way.In this episode of The Critical Thought, we illustrate how that belief system actually works — through a unique skit, a real-life experience from a former elder, and some critical questions every Jehovah’s Witness should be asking.

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Send us a textMay is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in this powerful episode, we revisit the story of Tony — a former elder and third-generation Jehovah’s Witness — as he opens up about the emotional and psychological impact of growing up in the organization.Tony shares how guilt, fear, and pressure to “perform spiritually” affected his mental health over time — and why so many others may be suffering in silence today.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, isolated, or like your struggles were dismissed as “spiritual weakness,” this conversation is for you.

Send us a textLaura X Timber YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lauraxtimberFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Laura-X-Timber/61566000317102/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraxtimberInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lauraxtimber/In this heartfelt conversation, Lady Cee and JT sit down with Laura X Timber, a powerful content creator who offers her platform as a soft place to land for those unpacking life after high-control religion.This isn't just an interview — it's a reminder that healing doesn’t have to be loud to be life-changing. Sometimes, it starts with a safe space and an honest conversation.

Send us a textParanoia isn’t just a passing fear—it’s a powerful tool used to control people. In this episode, we’re diving deep into how paranoia is woven into the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses and the lasting psychological impact it has on members.Jehovah’s Witnesses are taught to fear the outside world, believe that Satan is lurking behind every corner, and view former members as dangerous. This constant state of fear isolates them from society and keeps them loyal to the organization. But here’s the good news—paranoia is learned, and it can be unlearned.Join me, Lady Cee, as we break down:

Send us a textThe Watchtower Society has a long history of using legal loopholes, manipulation, and strategic dishonesty to win court cases — even when they’re in the wrong.In this video, we break down the exact tactics they use inside the courtroom. You’ll learn how they present themselves, twist the facts, and walk away with legal victories.

Send us a textWe just got a Memorial invitation at our door — and right after, the Jehovah's Witnesses Special Talk hit this weekend. But what’s really going on behind these messages?In this video, we break down the tactics used in the Special Talk, including the emotional hook, references to "fake news," and their subtle jabs at apostates — all designed to steer you straight into their pre-planned conclusion.We’ll show you how the Watchtower controls the conversation and builds pressure leading up to the Memorial. If you’ve been feeling the intensity this year, you’re not alone!Stick around as we count down to the Memorial and expose the patterns Jehovah’s Witnesses don’t want you to see.

Send us a textThe Jehovah’s Witness Memorial is the biggest event of their year — but what is it really all about? In this video, we’re breaking down 7 key things you should know to better understand this event. Whether you’ve attended, heard about it, or are just curious, we explain what makes the Memorial so important inside the organization. Join us as we unpack the beliefs, the traditions, and the behind-the-scenes details that shape this global event.

Send us a textIn this video, JT from EXJW Critical Thinker breaks down the absurdity behind the Jehovah's Witness belief of the 144,000 — a symbolic number that they treat like an actual headcount for heaven.For over a century, the Watchtower has kept followers focused on this limited number, creating pressure, confusion, and division. With the memorial season bringing in record numbers and a heavy push to recruit old contacts, it’s time to call it what it is: a number game that’s gone too far.Join us as we expose the satire behind the 144,000 doctrine and why it leaves no seats in heaven for anyone outside their ranks. If you’ve ever questioned this teaching or felt the weight of their man-made restrictions, this one’s for you.✅ Subscribe for more EXJW Critical Thinker videos.✅ Share your experience in the comments below.✅ Check out our related video: The 144,000 Explained (Full Deep Dive) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnL0hqDHc2I&t=249s]Join us behind the scenes on Patreon - https://www.patreon.

Send us a textThe vibe was definitely off at this year’s Jehovah’s Witness Memorial — and people are talking.In this powerful breakdown from EXJW Critical Thinker, JT walks you through the subtle — and not-so-subtle — shifts that made the 2025 Memorial unlike any we’ve seen before. From the sudden flood of phone calls to disfellowshipped members, to awkward in-person moments and emotionally charged invitations, it’s clear something has changed.What we cover:Watchtower's response to legal pressure over shunningNew freedom to contact “removed” members… but at what cost?PIMOs showing up just to avoid family dramaThe strange shift from reverent to performativeAnd yes… people using the emblems like photo booth propsThis isn’t just another Memorial recap — it’s a real look at how control, image, and numbers still run the show.

Send us a textThis week, millions of Christians reflect on Jesus — especially during the Easter season. But for Jehovah’s Witnesses, that relationship is framed in a very different way.In this episode of The Critical Thought, we illustrate how that belief system actually works — through a unique skit, a real-life experience from a former elder, and some critical questions every Jehovah’s Witness should be asking.

Send us a textMany Jehovah’s Witnesses don’t realize that their fear isn’t natural—it’s taught. From childhood, the Watchtower conditions you to believe that leaving means losing God’s protection, your family, and even your life. But what if that fear was never real to begin with?In this explosive episode of EXJW Critical Thinker, JT & Lady Cee break down how the Governing Body manipulates emotions, weaponizes isolation, and uses fear to maintain control.

Send us a textIn this powerful episode of The Critical Thought, JT breaks down the most common mistake ex-Jehovah’s Witnesses make after waking up to the truth about the Watchtower—and how it can devastate their lives.Using real-life scenarios, including a heartbreaking Reddit post from a 17-year-old and stories of marriages and careers on the line, we expose how the organization exploits honesty and weaponizes your words against you.You’ll learn why caution is your greatest ally and how to navigate conversations with elders, family members, and Jehovah’s Witness employers without putting your safety, relationships, or livelihood at risk.Topics Covered:

Send us a textWhat do you do when an organization claims to have the truth—but its predictions keep failing? Do you keep trusting them, or do you start asking questions?  Jehovah’s Witnesses have a long history of failed predictions—Armageddon in 1914, then 1925, then 1975, then “the generation that will not pass.” But instead of admitting they were wrong; they just keep moving the goalposts. And now? Many Jehovah’s Witnesses justify it by saying, "Well, it was the closest thing to the truth. But is close good enough? In Hidden Figures, astronaut John Glenn refused to launch until he had the exact number—because his life depended on it. Yet the Watchtower has convinced millions to quit their jobs, avoid college, and never save for retirement based on wrong calculations. JT & Lady Cee break it all down in this explosive episode—showing why ‘almost true’ is still false when the stakes are high. If the numbers don’t add up, maybe it’s time to rethink who’s running the calculations. 

Send us a textJehovah’s Witnesses proudly claim to have "the truth," but what happens when their teachings are put to the test? We take a clean glass of water and introduce a surprising visual experiment that will leave you questioning everything. What do the doctrines of 1914, Blood Transfusions, and Organ Transplants have in common? Why do these teachings matter so much when evaluating the Watchtower’s claim to truth? Watch as we reveal how just a few drops can change everything. By the end, you’ll have to ask yourself: Would you drink from this glass?

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Send us a textIn this powerful episode, we sit down with a 4th-generation former Jehovah's Witness who shares her deeply personal journey of faith, family, and awakening. From pioneering with her husband across multiple language congregations and dreaming of Gilead, to witnessing the heartbreaking realities of shunning and child abuse within the organization, she opens up about the emotional toll of living a life dedicated to the faith.She recounts the harrowing experience of her grandfather's near-death due to the 'No-blood' policy, the tragic shunning and suicide attempts of her aunt, and the recent abduction of her mother by zealous JW relatives. Her story is a testament to resilience and the painful but liberating process of waking up to the truth.Now, as an active member of the Stop Mandated Shunning team and a participant in significant research and legal efforts, she’s fighting to expose the harmful practices of the Jehovah's Witnesses and support others on their journey out. T

Send us a textWelcome to a powerful session of truth-telling and empowerment. In this video, we dive deep into the experiences of those who have dared to challenge the authority of the Governing Body. Through candid discussions, we uncover the personal and collective journeys of bravery that inspire and ignite change.Why Listen to this Podcast?Discover Untold Stories: Hear firsthand the compelling narratives of individuals who have stepped away from the shadows of control.Experience Group Therapy: Witness the therapeutic power of open dialogue in a supportive community setting.Get Inspired: Learn how breaking the silence can lead to healing and personal growth.Whether you're someone who has experienced similar challenges or you're simply interested in learning about the resilience of the human spirit, this video is for you. Join us as we celebrate the voices that refuse to be silenced, offering insights that challenge the norm and pave the way for a future of freedom and understanding.Support the sh