Every few months I feel like I learn another of Warren’s wives or children has left the FLDS and I cannot say enough how proud I am of them! It takes a lot of courage and determination to deconstruct from a faith you have possibly been living your whole life. All the best to Amy and I hope she is able to find healing and live her best life!
@@puppypersonLOTR I don't believe individuals are self brainwashed. They are brainwashed and manipulated by the cult leaders to follow. One has to overcome this to break free from it.
omg the facial expression Sam makes when Amy says "Warren told me if I want to have a baby I need to lose weight" Sam was PISSED damn. And I can tell you're trying so hard to hold it back, And you'r doing a good job, but I've been watching long enough now that I can still tell. -- And that's a good thing tbh, to be pissed about it, and visibly show it. I know Sam, you're nervous to show too much 'negativity' but tbh it's super warranted here. It's like righteous indignation. You're allowed to be pissed when morally horrible things are happening. Remember you're out now, you don't have to keep sweet anymore. Keep letting the emotions out, I love it!
When Amy said "I ended up not having any children with him" I was so releaved for her and those kids she could have had. It surely was making her suffer back then but I'm sure looking back that she's relieved she didn't. I admire Amy because she doesn't seem to have any hatred for Warren to this day even if he emotionally abused her. She seems like a beautiful person inside and out.
❤Thank you! This comment means a lot! And yes! I am grateful now I don't have children from Warren especially as I watch his children come out and see the trauma they work hard to recover from. At that time it was hard though to want to have a child and be treated as I was.
@@adadraper1905I imagine it would have caused a lot of suffering at the time. Undeserved suffering is used for blessing, after the suffering has ceased. ❤ Your story is very interesting and the way you tell it is engaging. Thank you for sharing your life story. With love from Aotearoa New Zealand. 🇳🇿
Ya couple years ago me and my horrible ex husband were trying I was super upset but thank god we didn’t have kids I would have never been able to leave
These testimonies like that of Amy's of their experiences in the FLDS are so valuable and important. One thing that I have come to realize after hearing quite a few people share their stories is what beautiful people these are in terms of character. In all the interviews that I remember hearing, I have come away feeling great respect for the person, for their sincerity and integrity and thoughtfulness for others. People love to scoff at the salaciousness of what happened to the FLDS under Warren Jeffs, but it's so much more human and understandable to hear balanced recollections like Amy's that don't paint everything as black. I very much appreciate that, especially having ancestors who lived this principle, one even being a wife of Joseph Smith. Hearing these experiences is like reading one of my ancestor's journals and I thank GUIP and Amy for the insights that you bring. Amy is a beautiful human being and has all my respect. Thanks again. I think this is building bridges between people and helping us all not to see those different from us as weird or bad. We see instead that we are all one.
@MarqueMyWords2442 This is Amy and I can't tell you how encouraging your comment made me feel! This touched my heart so! Thank you, thank you for this!!
@@indescribablelove3846Whether she helped or not, the children were being taken from their mothers-she did not make the decision to take them. At least the children were with someone who cared about them. This is all on the head of Warren Jeffs, not Amy who thought she was doing what God wanted.
@@mmoore3743trust me I’m reaching deep inside my heart trying to understand she thought she was doing the correct thing. Judging is definitely my weakness and I’m looking forward to hearing the rest. Thank you!
I’ve seen a lot of women interviewed and listened to many stories from people that knew Warren intimately. She’s the only one that has said nearly anything about Warren being considerate of anyone himself. I also find it hard to believe he wasn’t fully planning to take over as prophet. I have to wonder if she is still giving him too much of the benefit of the doubt because she has a good heart herself.
The self brainwashing can also affect which memories get held onto and which get forgotten. So maybe Amy remembers the ten times Warren was kind to the children and has blocked out the one hundred times he was harsh or cruel. Memories are tricky things, not saying she is remembering wrong by ANY means, but the things we forget, we can't factor in.
While I do think it’s hard not to over-extend benefit of the doubt, when you’re very strong in your personal ethics (and vice versa, how unethical people often assume the same of others), I do also think, based on other stories, including the clock story, it seems like Warren intentionally chose more covert punishments/shamings which were excruciating to the person being targeted, but which would be invisible to any uninvolved bystanders - not exactly conducive to clear understandings of his true character - it takes a lot of courageous sharing of these personal lived experiences, to be able to piece together a more 3-dimensional picture of what he was like.
As a non-Mormon (Catholic Christian) I cannot express enough gratitude for your bravery in sharing this information on your podcast. Christians outside the world of Mormonism need to be made aware of what is happening in the world of American 🇺🇸 polygamy. This culture of polygamy is criminal in nature. It is true that historically Catholics have had large families with one husband and one wife. This is a blessing 😊! However, multiple wives for one man is against the teaching of Christ in the New Testament. Matthew 19: 4-5. Keep up the good work! People NEED to know…😮😮😮😊😊😊😊
What a precious woman. She was put in such a difficult position, and she handled it with more grace than I could ever imagine. I'm sure all of the children she cared for are proud of her for telling her story.
i just found your channel thru Peter Santenello’s video. back in early 2020 i was super obsessed with learning about the FLDS church, recently i’ve been fascinated again and i’m glad to see so many more ex-members have come forward. you and the rest of the survivors who have told their stories are such commendable people. i wish law enforcement could do more to shut this whole cult down, but it gives me hope that more & more former members are publicly speaking out against Warren Jeffs and the FLDS. your strength is seen and admired. i am praying for all of you and i am praying that the more coverage this receives, the closer we will get to eradicating Warren’s influence once and for all. God bless.
This was fascinating to listen to, her perspective is so unique. I can't wait for part 3. Amy, you are beautiful, thoughtful and kind, and I wish the very best for you 💙 thank you for telling your story
I know I've heard Amy's story before. I've heard most of what was said before. For some reason, I have never cried so much listening. I love how easy Amy is to listen to and emphasize with. But hearing her say it to you two lovely humans took it to a whole other level. I paused the vid and my crying to read the blog she reccomended (bless all those children!) and now I'm back listening to the end and crying even more. It's an emotional and painful story, regardless of where it is told. But I truly appreciate the depth of hearing it again, here. Thank you!!!
The more I hear from Ms Amy the more I understand what a blessing it was to others that she did not have her own children and was able to selflessly love the children of the other mothers. The children needed you.
I wonder how many of Warren’s wives have left him at this point and how defeated he feels in his little cell. I hope more and more people stuck in the FLDS will gain the courage to leave, successfully escape, and have the strength to survive in their brave new world. They deserve lots of love and compassion and patience and I’m happy there are channels like GUIP that give ex-FLDS a place to tell the world their story and talk about what they’ve learned ❤
If he actually believes all this then he doesn't care because he'll get his own planet and be a god. He's probably loving it except for the lack of little girls in prison
"Wives" that have left Warren Jeffs and the FLDS: #13 Ada Marie Draper #21 Sharon Steed #27 Naomie Jessop #38 Asenath Jessop #63 Janetta Jessop (Warren took her at age 16) #65 Lynette Warner #76 Nolita Blackmore (Warren took her at age 12- she does not want to be called his “wife” or “former wife”) #77 Alyshia Blackmore (Warren took her at age 12) I know that Warren threw them away, but have they managed to leave mentally as well? #34 Kathleen Blackmore #51 Winnie Kloe Steed #67 Permelia Johnson (was 15 years old) "Wife" #2 Barbara Barlow and "wife" #17 Sheena Roundy both died of breast cancer. (Both were tortured in various ways by Warren before their death- Sheena maybe worse? But both suffered tremendously at his hands.) Who did I forget?
My comment disappeared: Wives that have left Warren Jeffs: #8 Vicki Nielsen #13 Ada Marie Draper #21 Sharon Steed #27 Naomie Jessop #38 Asenath Jessop #63 Janetta Jessop (Warren took her at age 16) #65 Lynette Warner #76 Nolita Blackmore (Warren took her at age 12- she does not want to be called his “wife” or “former wife”) #77 Alyshia Blackmore (Warren took her at age 12) I know that Warren threw them away, but have the following managed to leave mentally as well? No idea. #34 Kathleen Blackmore #51 WinnieKloe Steed #67 Permelia Johnson (was 15 years old) Wife #2 Barbara Barlow and wife #17 Sheena Roundy both died of breast cancer. (Both were tortured in various ways by Warren before their death- Sheena maybe worse? But both suffered tremendously at his hands.)
I love the care you take with every guest, especially all these women leaving and needing care and understanding! You can tell they are all so comfortable with you both❤️
I was privileged to know one of Amy's plural mothers. My friend left the FLDS in the mid-eighties because she no longer believed in the religion. Amy was a toddler at the time so she may not remember that mother. My friend remembered Amy and was very fond of her. After the 2008 raid on YFZ, my friend extended a great effort to find out where Amy was and how she was doing. We were part of a group that had some access to FLDS records that were among the discovery in the civil trials. Information about Amy other than when she married Warren. My friend was the first child of Rulon born into polygamy. Rulon was particularly fond of my friend; therefore she had some limited privileges to visit Short Creek after she left. Warren is a half-brother to my friend. Needless to say, she had nothing good to say about him. The more we learned about his conduct with underage children, her disgust for him increased in its intensity. More >
We attended Warren's trial in Texas. It was a surreal experience. The horror of listening to the audiotape of Warren's sexual assault of a 12-year old girl is something I will never forget. It was expected by us that he would be convicted. The jury did not disappoint. The evidence against him was indisputable. Before his trial in Texas, I took on the task of reading his Dictations and Revelations. My friend and I had many late night communication about the content of those documents. The days and nights when I understood further his somewhat coded descriptions of his criminal were horrible. My friendship with Amy's plural wife was indescribably a balm to my soul as I plowed through his thoughts. Sadly, my friend passed away several years ago from cancer. Our friendship is something I treasure beyond measure. She was a kind and wise soul. I learned so much from her. More >
I can feel my friend's joy in knowing Amy has left Warren's orbit and is such a delightful woman. She wouldn't be surprised by Amy's grace. My friend had nothing negative to say about Amy's father. She loved him, but could no longer believe in and live in polygamy. She went on to live an impressive life and met the love of her life. They spent the rest of his life together and she loved him into eternity. Warren's trial and our experiences leading up to it were incredible. One humorous event involved Warren's full brother Lyle. At the time Lyle was considered to be a formidable force in Warren's world. My friend and I were returning to the courtroom one day when we encountered Lyle in the hallway. I recognized who he was and initially felt intimidated by his size and reputation. I was amazed at what happened next. My friend greeted him in a friendly way. It was clear that she had no fear. Not so much on Lyle's part. He was cordial, but it was clear that he wanted to escape the situation. He couldn't do so without rudely pushing his way through us. I watched him diminish to a smaller man who was intimidated by my friend. (It's been a odd sadness to see the physical reduction in Lyle after his time in prison.) There's so much more I could say about my friend and what we learned about Warren. But I'll stop with a couple of thoughts. More >
Warren's writings reveal that he spent an exorbitant time in his room dictating his plans and beliefs of how the world should bend to his will. Naturally, he doesn't have that power, thus many of his actions and thoughts were no more than reactions to how the world was beyond his delusional inflated ego. Instead of the world bending to his will, he had to bend his will to the world. Case in fact - he will spend the rest of his life incarcerated in Texas. Final thought - I hear my friend's heart sing to hear Amy.
Amy, sweetheart, I’m that terrible situation, you were the hands and feet of Jesus- helping by your love for those women and children. I’m sure all the mothers, devastated as they were, praised God that YOU were there for their babies in their absence. I am so sorry for the trauma y’all have endured.
Thank you for sharing so bravely, Amy. It sounds like you survived through a combination of mindfulness tools and your nervous system, body & mind protecting you by entering a state of functional freeze with a fawning response. It seems like that was an effective way to minimize the harm done by your abuser and keep some peace. I’m so sorry you had to go through any of this and while my experiences have been very different, I recognize many things in you from what I grew up in and how I got through it. Somatically informed holistic care has been an incredible game changer. It lives in our bodies until it’s released and can stay trapped a long time. Sending so much love and hope your way. ❤
She is such a kind and sweet person, it shows. I'm not to the end of the interview yet, and I'm hoping she is happy and getting to live rhenkife she chooses now, how she chooses!
I came back here after listening to the first part of the podcast. What honest and open interview. I was crying with you when the time came to seperate the children from their mothers. I cannot imagine how awful that must have been for you. You gave me more insight in how your sisterwifes found solice in the fact that you took good care of their children. Have you not been there it probably would have been much harder for them to let their children go.
Amy, I really admire your accuracy and faithfulness to conveying the truth of your loved experiences, as you experienced them. I hope you take a lot of these few more judgemental comments w/ a big ol grain of salt bc unless you’ve learned a lot about deconstruction and the profound emotional labor that goes into leaving a cult/high-demand religion, there’s going to be a lot that many people won’t yet know how to relate to. I just think you’re extremely admirable, in ways I probably can’t even fully understand. Thank you so much, for sharing your story with us. 💜⚡️
@sarahissersohn5495 Thank you so much for this comment! Those who are understanding to how I chose to not be so negative are so encouraging! I just wanted to show how I truly lived it! Grateful I know better and live a much better, happier life now!!
Amy is truly loving and courageous. How many people who will speak out on their own experiences because of her willingness to share her story here will be numerous. Thank you 💜
I really appreciate the platform you have and the voice you give these women and children who had no voice at one time. May she have peace and joy abundantly always.
Again I highly suggest that you read "The Witness Wore Read" - the memoir of Rebecca Musser, former wife of Rulon Jeffs. From certain things you guys say I get the sense you haven't read it. I think some people are hesistant to read it because she was the star witness in so many of the trials in the mid/late 2000s that people just assume she's a hater who will say anything bad. But I think she is super fair and balanced in her recollection of things. In fact, as Amy was recalling the exact scenario around Rulon's death, I was trying to remember what Rebecca's account of it was. So I opened my book to find it. But it wasn't there. That's why I couldn't recall. She recounts his illness leading up to his death, but out of respect for her late husband, she entire skipped the actual story of his death and how/when everyone was informed. At multiple points in the story she makes clear that she does take her previous marriage seriously and hold it sacred in her heart. She does also share some of the abuse that she endured at both the hands of Rulon and Warren. But she's fair and balanced. I'd love a video where you react to the book because it's so good and so powerful.
Amy, what a beautiful witness you are for doing the best you possibly know to do in the situation you find yourself, and then learning to do better when you have more information and more freedom . There is nothing more that anyone can do. The pain of choices you wish you had made differently is natural, and I sit here "with" you and in honor of you, for that real and earnest pain. At the exact same time, please comfort yourself knowing that nobody could have done any better than what you did. We can't hold ourselves to some impossible standard, no matter how much we may want to. We are only human. We all see better and clearer in hindsight. But...your kind and earnest and strong spirit is so clear, and has surely blessed all those who have known you. Be gracious and gentle with yourself. You're a beautiful example to many, who have come out of or are coming out of brainwashing type circumstances. Including me. Thank you for sharing your story. It's an honor to bear witness to your courage and your true heart. ❤❤❤
What a valuable point of view Amy brings. Seems like the death of Rulon really caught Warren by surprise and his mental health really deteriorated after Rulon’s passing. Sometimes it’s hard to hear he had a nice side, but if he was always a horrible tyrant I don’t think people would have put up with that
Ive trained and supervised small work groups and I can't imagine the human relations, territory, preferences, efficiency etc with switching the jobs. Yet another power play and keeping leverage away from the victims. The children going to bed without knowing which "mom" would wake them in the morning is just mind-blowing to me as a mom. I can't imagine the lack of security the child had.
You speaking beautifully Amy. Thank you so much for sharing your story; it’s fascinating to hear from your perspective. You’re a beautiful soul and I wish you the very best in your life x.
Thank you for sharing your story I saw the interview with cults to consciousness your all opening my eyes to the hell woman in cults deal with I'm sorry to dealt with that type of hell
What a sweet, beautiful lady! So glad that she’s out of this cult! The whole FLDS thing is the most dysfunctional, disgusting thing I’ve ever heard of.
Your intro music gives me full house vibes. Just like coming home from school to watch a sitcom. Sam are there ever references like that one where it still can completely go over your head due to your upbringing. Anyways now I’m old and just got off work to watch my fav yt channels. Thank you for sharing these stories!
This was a really good interview because she would only speak on her experience and not throw out assumptions of what others felt or experienced. This was great information.
She was so strong telling her story without inserting her perspective on it now. I hope Amy gives herself a lot of grace because she was raised into this cult. I get regretting things in hindsight but she did the best she knew at the time ❤
1:02:49 into it - YES it was Uncle Fred doing the Meeting - Warren was calling in - I'll never forget that meeting... I think I still have some hand written church notes from around that time... MIND BLOWING meeting, that one! (Died of Septic Shock from an Impacted Colon/Bowel Burst - he had had SO MUCH Orsa Clay - JAMMED SHUT!) Also... Amy, wasn't it only 7-8mos later that WSJ and I think the first Lady of his Fathers to be married to him had a Child?!!
1:16:27 - as I recall.... the running hiding / was INITIALLY due him being the "ONLY" legal person that could answer for any Lawsuit coming against the UEP TRUST - SOUL control or something?? - He was supposed answer and or reply having been LAWFULLY Subpoenaed - and then I remember a WHOLE LOT of the "Answer them nothing" message POURING out over the people in the meetings... and a LOT of "Bow Your Backs - Give The Lords ALL!" started happening...
Of course it's confusing. Please look into narcissism. The most telling part, for me so far, is an older man taking a young lady who knows absolutely nothing about sex and much less anything about reproduction - then flat out insulting her and blaming her for her lack of knowledge. He was being very cruel to her and I'm not sure she even realizes this to this day. He sounds to me to be one of the most sexually selfish people I've ever heard of. Narcissists flat out manipulate and lie. Period. They can be the "nicest" person ever, down to the most horrid person ever. It just depends on the situation and how they feel that day. They're going to behave "nicer" in front of a group they want to convince that they aren't a monster. There is no cure for these types of people. I think his daughter Rachel probably has the clearest picture of this man of anyone I've ever heard speak about him. I would say his son Ammon is probably catching up with her. Just from what little I've seen.
I agree. Coming from a religious background with some similarities, I concur to the niceness of the narcissist. It’s another way of controlling people, and she falls into the pleasing category.
That part struck me, too. He, a whole grown man, took offense at a remark made by a sixteen year old girl who knew nothing about sex or reproduction and then punished her for six months over it. He only relented when SHE came to HIM, and even then, it sounds like he never really let her live it down. Disgusting behavior on so many levels that really drives home his lack of deep, lasting compassion, empathy, and kindness. I’m sure she is grateful now that she did not have children with him, but given that she was raised believing her purpose in life revolved around having children, I cannot imagine how painful it was to be neglected in that way. Especially as more wives were added and they became pregnant.
Question: Does anyone know approximately how many wives and children have left the FLDS since Warren Jeffs incarnation? Thanks for another great video. For a non-LDS person, I admit it is hard for me to comprehend some of this, but I love learning from Sam, Melissa, and their guests.
Thank you Amy so much for sharing your story. You did a great job on what needed to occur you were brain washed but you did what needed to be done. I can’t wait to hear the rest of your story💕💕💕💕💕
Such an incredible story. I was so disgusted/angry at Warren as she was talking about how they were leaving for Zion- to watch the pain the wives and kids were experiencing and know you caused it and continue to follow through with it…such evil.
I see your tears and pain; I think, as an outsider I can't fully understand, but your use of the word brainwashed is probably accurate. Thank you for sharing. I hope you have found peace, and know the true triune God who loves you.
Maybe, but the need for positive regard and acknowledgement is an extremely human one, which is pretty universal. In the corporate world, among parents and our kids- there’s really just nothing that hits quite the way a true, heartfelt compliment or observation that shows that your loved one or role model really truly sees you, and appreciates you, for something that’s either unique to you, or which shows deeply insightful knowledge of who you are as a person. Compliments my parents have given me (VERY few and far between) even decades ago, I can still hear, in my mind’s ear, exactly how their voice sounded, when they spoke them to me, and exactly how I felt, hearing their words. It’s a power that it’s important to wield mindfully, because this is a susceptibility that is pretty universal, even if you don’t care what most people think of you, that words of affirmation from loved ones or role models you hold dear in your heart, are meaningful to us all (whether we would prefer that they be so, or whether we wouldn’t)
For clarification for those who may wonder: The Prophet Joseph Smith prepared this statement on the principle of sacrifice for the Lectures on Faith: “Let us here observe, that a religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation” ( Lectures on Faith, 6:7). This is from a lecture. The question of what is being sacrificed, when where and how and for what purpose is not answered by this statement. Many people sacrifice truth to support, promote and sustain evil. I don't think it is wisdom to blindly follow anyone nor blindly agree to something simply because of a statement made by anyone. I have seen evil men and women try to use, i.e., twist the meaning of words to manipulate others to do what they want them to do. I have seen and experienced the harm from such. Taking a single sentence out of an entire lecture to hold it over someone's head to manipulate them into doing something is so void of integrity. FLDS, LDS or any other religious belief or non-religious belief, manipulating others is wrong on every level!
I have a question, and I hope to not offend anyone. Was it true that some young teenager boys of the FLDS were kicked out and be homeless so the young girls get married to old men? Since young girls would prefer to be married to younger guys
That's what it looked like to me, to be the case. I was born and raised in the group and had 6 brothers who were sent away. 2 were teenagers. It was very hard on me to witness that. I, like Amy, suppressed my emotions.
@@Evay Yes and no. I didn't really know where the boys went till years later. Mom told me she sent the youngest on a bus to Salt Lake with $20. I should tell my story some time. I might be healed enough now to tell it.
So interesting to see these two souls who experienced polygamy in different settings talk with each other. And be so supportive to each other. Very cool.
I am really surprised at how much indoctrination she still has...she keeps mentioning how she was so happy that she could keep sweet and Warren could count on her doing so as if that is a good thing...I. value having and expressing my voice and to me keeping sweet is the opposite of that...I hope she is able to express herself now...
Hi! This is Amy. I can understand why you say this but please take note of what I said, I'm telling it in the mindset I was back then. I'm much more independent now! Each person is different and comes along in their own way, at their own pace.
Heartbreaking how she berates herself for being brainwashed when she was clearly under some kind of coercive control, and so, so sad when the mothers were parted from their kids to go to 'Zion'. 😭 0:590:59
Oh wow! Riveting. Those children were so lucky to have such a caring and lovely lady to be with them during such a horrendous time. She also has managed to humanise and de romanticise the outsiders view of this period in the FLDS. Also interesting to see Warren Jeffs pre his power trip from someone who knew and could read him well. So very well told. CC Ps if its not too private what happened to Sam's sister who married Ruland
@@powderandpaint14 Not all of them--all the older wives (the ones who would've been the mothers of most of his children who were by then, in their 50s and 60s if not older) were of no interest to Warren. Some, like Vicki Nielsen, went to his brothers--Vicki said in Preaching Evil that she married Leroy Jeffs, Warren's brother, so I'm sure his full brothers maybe got to pick the ladies that he didn't want. I think Sam's sister maybe also married Leroy because I remember reading Warren's dictations from when he kicked Leroy out that mentioned a lady with Sam's original last name--but of course there are so many siblings and people sharing names it may be a cousin or a sister who married Leroy from the getgo.
It's very interesting to hear insight directly from one of Warren's wife. I say if he shunned you for 6 months I think that was a blessing for you!! Because he gives the ick, slimy vibe.. thinking of him touching someone just is gross. Hard to comprehend these ladies really wanted "time" with him?
What a beautiful lady Amy is. Looking out for the other wives and children and putting her own needs aside!! All I can see the whole time is how Warren used her and put her into situations such as looking after the pregnant ladies and watching them give birth. Then putting her with all the children as a reminder of what she will never have! I know she has such a special gift with the children and she took her responsibilities so seriously! But what an evil man to do this constant to families! Splitting them up and controlling them all over the years! May God bless these ladies and children and bring them all out from under this curse!
Her describing her relationship with Warren sheds alotta light on how Kody is/was with his wives and his expectations for people getting his time/love/affection.
I am wondering how much influence the Jeffs have on current Arizona politics, private prisons, private security companies and infiltration of political parties, mental health facilities, police forces, and other control mechanisms of society.
It’s really nice hearing Amy’s point of view. I wish I could tell her that she didn’t get sent away because she did something bad. She got sent away because Warren screwed up, corrected too many people so that he didn’t have enough funds to keep his wives. It wasn’t you Amy, it was his mistake
Every few months I feel like I learn another of Warren’s wives or children has left the FLDS and I cannot say enough how proud I am of them! It takes a lot of courage and determination to deconstruct from a faith you have possibly been living your whole life. All the best to Amy and I hope she is able to find healing and live her best life!
When you’re raised to believe in a cult, you don’t question it, so this takes more courage than anyone who’s not done it, can imagine.
@@babsmalone5486 the self-brainwashing is SO difficult to break free of and unlearn. It's such an accomplishment when people manage it ❤😊
@@puppypersonLOTR I don't believe individuals are self brainwashed. They are brainwashed and manipulated by the cult leaders to follow. One has to overcome this to break free from it.
She was my second grade Teacher when I was there. Loved her!!
omg the facial expression Sam makes when Amy says "Warren told me if I want to have a baby I need to lose weight" Sam was PISSED damn. And I can tell you're trying so hard to hold it back, And you'r doing a good job, but I've been watching long enough now that I can still tell. -- And that's a good thing tbh, to be pissed about it, and visibly show it. I know Sam, you're nervous to show too much 'negativity' but tbh it's super warranted here. It's like righteous indignation. You're allowed to be pissed when morally horrible things are happening. Remember you're out now, you don't have to keep sweet anymore. Keep letting the emotions out, I love it!
When Amy said "I ended up not having any children with him" I was so releaved for her and those kids she could have had. It surely was making her suffer back then but I'm sure looking back that she's relieved she didn't. I admire Amy because she doesn't seem to have any hatred for Warren to this day even if he emotionally abused her. She seems like a beautiful person inside and out.
❤Thank you! This comment means a lot! And yes! I am grateful now I don't have children from Warren especially as I watch his children come out and see the trauma they work hard to recover from. At that time it was hard though to want to have a child and be treated as I was.
@@adadraper1905 oh wow glad you were able to read it ❤️
@@adadraper1905I imagine it would have caused a lot of suffering at the time. Undeserved suffering is used for blessing, after the suffering has ceased. ❤ Your story is very interesting and the way you tell it is engaging. Thank you for sharing your life story. With love from Aotearoa New Zealand. 🇳🇿
Ya couple years ago me and my horrible ex husband were trying I was super upset but thank god we didn’t have kids I would have never been able to leave
@@AotearoaAnge Thank you so much!
These testimonies like that of Amy's of their experiences in the FLDS are so valuable and important. One thing that I have come to realize after hearing quite a few people share their stories is what beautiful people these are in terms of character. In all the interviews that I remember hearing, I have come away feeling great respect for the person, for their sincerity and integrity and thoughtfulness for others. People love to scoff at the salaciousness of what happened to the FLDS under Warren Jeffs, but it's so much more human and understandable to hear balanced recollections like Amy's that don't paint everything as black. I very much appreciate that, especially having ancestors who lived this principle, one even being a wife of Joseph Smith. Hearing these experiences is like reading one of my ancestor's journals and I thank GUIP and Amy for the insights that you bring. Amy is a beautiful human being and has all my respect. Thanks again. I think this is building bridges between people and helping us all not to see those different from us as weird or bad. We see instead that we are all one.
@MarqueMyWords2442 This is Amy and I can't tell you how encouraging your comment made me feel! This touched my heart so! Thank you, thank you for this!!
So much unnecessary heartache because of Warren Jeffs.
This is 100% the best interview from the FLDS that I've listened to. Amy, you are a breath of fresh air!
What a beautiful woman Amy is ❤wishing her an abundance of happiness ❤
I have eternal anger towards her. She took kids away from their mother! She only cried one time during the children being taken away.
@@indescribablelove3846Whether she helped or not, the children were being taken from their mothers-she did not make the decision to take them. At least the children were with someone who cared about them. This is all on the head of Warren Jeffs, not Amy who thought she was doing what God wanted.
@@indescribablelove3846it’s not your place to hold that anger against her.
@@mmoore3743trust me I’m reaching deep inside my heart trying to understand she thought she was doing the correct thing. Judging is definitely my weakness and I’m looking forward to hearing the rest. Thank you!
You really dont understand what its like to be groomed and indoctrinated from birth do you?@indescribablelove3846
Wow! Amy’s telling of her story is so powerful! What a courageous woman
I’ve seen a lot of women interviewed and listened to many stories from people that knew Warren intimately. She’s the only one that has said nearly anything about Warren being considerate of anyone himself. I also find it hard to believe he wasn’t fully planning to take over as prophet. I have to wonder if she is still giving him too much of the benefit of the doubt because she has a good heart herself.
The self brainwashing can also affect which memories get held onto and which get forgotten. So maybe Amy remembers the ten times Warren was kind to the children and has blocked out the one hundred times he was harsh or cruel. Memories are tricky things, not saying she is remembering wrong by ANY means, but the things we forget, we can't factor in.
While I do think it’s hard not to over-extend benefit of the doubt, when you’re very strong in your personal ethics (and vice versa, how unethical people often assume the same of others), I do also think, based on other stories, including the clock story, it seems like Warren intentionally chose more covert punishments/shamings which were excruciating to the person being targeted, but which would be invisible to any uninvolved bystanders - not exactly conducive to clear understandings of his true character - it takes a lot of courageous sharing of these personal lived experiences, to be able to piece together a more 3-dimensional picture of what he was like.
Agreed!
During these times when she thought he was being considerate of children, he was preying on his own children and his students at Alta academy.
What a beautiful soul Amy is. I wish her all the best of everything!
As a non-Mormon (Catholic Christian) I cannot express enough gratitude for your bravery in sharing this information on your podcast. Christians outside the world of Mormonism need to be made aware of what is happening in the world of American 🇺🇸 polygamy. This culture of polygamy is criminal in nature. It is true that historically Catholics have had large families with one husband and one wife. This is a blessing 😊! However, multiple wives for one man is against the teaching of Christ in the New Testament. Matthew 19: 4-5. Keep up the good work! People NEED to know…😮😮😮😊😊😊😊
What a precious woman. She was put in such a difficult position, and she handled it with more grace than I could ever imagine. I'm sure all of the children she cared for are proud of her for telling her story.
She has a voice that’s so easy to listen to. However my heart breaks for all those involved. You exude true strength Amy.
i just found your channel thru Peter Santenello’s video. back in early 2020 i was super obsessed with learning about the FLDS church, recently i’ve been fascinated again and i’m glad to see so many more ex-members have come forward. you and the rest of the survivors who have told their stories are such commendable people. i wish law enforcement could do more to shut this whole cult down, but it gives me hope that more & more former members are publicly speaking out against Warren Jeffs and the FLDS. your strength is seen and admired. i am praying for all of you and i am praying that the more coverage this receives, the closer we will get to eradicating Warren’s influence once and for all. God bless.
Break the silence. Break the cycle.
This was fascinating to listen to, her perspective is so unique. I can't wait for part 3. Amy, you are beautiful, thoughtful and kind, and I wish the very best for you 💙 thank you for telling your story
Amy’s bravery telling this story was so touching .. God Bless all that have been effected by this💔 Thank you both for giving everyone a voice 💕
I know I've heard Amy's story before. I've heard most of what was said before. For some reason, I have never cried so much listening. I love how easy Amy is to listen to and emphasize with. But hearing her say it to you two lovely humans took it to a whole other level. I paused the vid and my crying to read the blog she reccomended (bless all those children!) and now I'm back listening to the end and crying even more.
It's an emotional and painful story, regardless of where it is told. But I truly appreciate the depth of hearing it again, here.
Thank you!!!
The more I hear from Ms Amy the more I understand what a blessing it was to others that she did not have her own children and was able to selflessly love the children of the other mothers. The children needed you.
I wonder how many of Warren’s wives have left him at this point and how defeated he feels in his little cell.
I hope more and more people stuck in the FLDS will gain the courage to leave, successfully escape, and have the strength to survive in their brave new world. They deserve lots of love and compassion and patience and I’m happy there are channels like GUIP that give ex-FLDS a place to tell the world their story and talk about what they’ve learned ❤
If he actually believes all this then he doesn't care because he'll get his own planet and be a god. He's probably loving it except for the lack of little girls in prison
"Wives" that have left Warren Jeffs and the FLDS:
#13 Ada Marie Draper
#21 Sharon Steed
#27 Naomie Jessop
#38 Asenath Jessop
#63 Janetta Jessop (Warren took her at age 16)
#65 Lynette Warner
#76 Nolita Blackmore (Warren took her at age 12- she does not want to be called his “wife” or “former wife”)
#77 Alyshia Blackmore (Warren took her at age 12)
I know that Warren threw them away, but have they managed to leave mentally as well?
#34 Kathleen Blackmore
#51 Winnie Kloe Steed
#67 Permelia Johnson (was 15 years old)
"Wife" #2 Barbara Barlow and "wife" #17 Sheena Roundy both died of breast cancer. (Both were tortured in various ways by Warren before their death- Sheena maybe worse? But both suffered tremendously at his hands.)
Who did I forget?
My comment disappeared: Wives that have left Warren Jeffs:
#8 Vicki Nielsen
#13 Ada Marie Draper
#21 Sharon Steed
#27 Naomie Jessop
#38 Asenath Jessop
#63 Janetta Jessop (Warren took her at age 16)
#65 Lynette Warner
#76 Nolita Blackmore (Warren took her at age 12- she does not want to be called his “wife” or “former wife”)
#77 Alyshia Blackmore (Warren took her at age 12)
I know that Warren threw them away, but have the following managed to leave mentally as well? No idea.
#34 Kathleen Blackmore
#51 WinnieKloe Steed
#67 Permelia Johnson (was 15 years old)
Wife #2 Barbara Barlow and wife #17 Sheena Roundy both died of breast cancer. (Both were tortured in various ways by Warren before their death- Sheena maybe worse? But both suffered tremendously at his hands.)
I'm crying with Amy. God knows your heart. ❤
I love the care you take with every guest, especially all these women leaving and needing care and understanding! You can tell they are all so comfortable with you both❤️
I was privileged to know one of Amy's plural mothers. My friend left the FLDS in the mid-eighties because she no longer believed in the religion. Amy was a toddler at the time so she may not remember that mother. My friend remembered Amy and was very fond of her.
After the 2008 raid on YFZ, my friend extended a great effort to find out where Amy was and how she was doing. We were part of a group that had some access to FLDS records that were among the discovery in the civil trials. Information about Amy other than when she married Warren.
My friend was the first child of Rulon born into polygamy. Rulon was particularly fond of my friend; therefore she had some limited privileges to visit Short Creek after she left.
Warren is a half-brother to my friend. Needless to say, she had nothing good to say about him. The more we learned about his conduct with underage children, her disgust for him increased in its intensity.
More >
We attended Warren's trial in Texas. It was a surreal experience. The horror of listening to the audiotape of Warren's sexual assault of a 12-year old girl is something I will never forget. It was expected by us that he would be convicted. The jury did not disappoint. The evidence against him was indisputable.
Before his trial in Texas, I took on the task of reading his Dictations and Revelations. My friend and I had many late night communication about the content of those documents. The days and nights when I understood further his somewhat coded descriptions of his criminal were horrible. My friendship with Amy's plural wife was indescribably a balm to my soul as I plowed through his thoughts.
Sadly, my friend passed away several years ago from cancer. Our friendship is something I treasure beyond measure. She was a kind and wise soul. I learned so much from her.
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I can feel my friend's joy in knowing Amy has left Warren's orbit and is such a delightful woman. She wouldn't be surprised by Amy's grace.
My friend had nothing negative to say about Amy's father. She loved him, but could no longer believe in and live in polygamy. She went on to live an impressive life and met the love of her life. They spent the rest of his life together and she loved him into eternity.
Warren's trial and our experiences leading up to it were incredible. One humorous event involved Warren's full brother Lyle. At the time Lyle was considered to be a formidable force in Warren's world. My friend and I were returning to the courtroom one day when we encountered Lyle in the hallway. I recognized who he was and initially felt intimidated by his size and reputation.
I was amazed at what happened next. My friend greeted him in a friendly way. It was clear that she had no fear. Not so much on Lyle's part. He was cordial, but it was clear that he wanted to escape the situation. He couldn't do so without rudely pushing his way through us. I watched him diminish to a smaller man who was intimidated by my friend. (It's been a odd sadness to see the physical reduction in Lyle after his time in prison.)
There's so much more I could say about my friend and what we learned about Warren. But I'll stop with a couple of thoughts.
More >
Warren's writings reveal that he spent an exorbitant time in his room dictating his plans and beliefs of how the world should bend to his will. Naturally, he doesn't have that power, thus many of his actions and thoughts were no more than reactions to how the world was beyond his delusional inflated ego. Instead of the world bending to his will, he had to bend his will to the world. Case in fact - he will spend the rest of his life incarcerated in Texas.
Final thought - I hear my friend's heart sing to hear Amy.
@terryarmstrong8598 thanks for sharing.
What a lovely tribute to your friend and to Amy as well. I surely agree with you that she is smiling down to see this 💜
Amy, sweetheart, I’m that terrible situation, you were the hands and feet of Jesus- helping by your love for those women and children. I’m sure all the mothers, devastated as they were, praised God that YOU were there for their babies in their absence. I am so sorry for the trauma y’all have endured.
Thank you for sharing so bravely, Amy. It sounds like you survived through a combination of mindfulness tools and your nervous system, body & mind protecting you by entering a state of functional freeze with a fawning response. It seems like that was an effective way to minimize the harm done by your abuser and keep some peace. I’m so sorry you had to go through any of this and while my experiences have been very different, I recognize many things in you from what I grew up in and how I got through it. Somatically informed holistic care has been an incredible game changer. It lives in our bodies until it’s released and can stay trapped a long time. Sending so much love and hope your way. ❤
She is such a kind and sweet person, it shows. I'm not to the end of the interview yet, and I'm hoping she is happy and getting to live rhenkife she chooses now, how she chooses!
I came back here after listening to the first part of the podcast. What honest and open interview. I was crying with you when the time came to seperate the children from their mothers. I cannot imagine how awful that must have been for you. You gave me more insight in how your sisterwifes found solice in the fact that you took good care of their children. Have you not been there it probably would have been much harder for them to let their children go.
❤ Thank you so much!
It's sad to see what she thought was a good father daughter relationship he was actually using his daughter to hunt and groom their friends to marry.
Amy, I really admire your accuracy and faithfulness to conveying the truth of your loved experiences, as you experienced them. I hope you take a lot of these few more judgemental comments w/ a big ol grain of salt bc unless you’ve learned a lot about deconstruction and the profound emotional labor that goes into leaving a cult/high-demand religion, there’s going to be a lot that many people won’t yet know how to relate to.
I just think you’re extremely admirable, in ways I probably can’t even fully understand. Thank you so much, for sharing your story with us. 💜⚡️
@sarahissersohn5495 Thank you so much for this comment! Those who are understanding to how I chose to not be so negative are so encouraging! I just wanted to show how I truly lived it! Grateful I know better and live a much better, happier life now!!
Amy is truly loving and courageous. How many people who will speak out on their own experiences because of her willingness to share her story here will be numerous. Thank you 💜
I really appreciate the platform you have and the voice you give these women and children who had no voice at one time. May she have peace and joy abundantly always.
Again I highly suggest that you read "The Witness Wore Read" - the memoir of Rebecca Musser, former wife of Rulon Jeffs. From certain things you guys say I get the sense you haven't read it. I think some people are hesistant to read it because she was the star witness in so many of the trials in the mid/late 2000s that people just assume she's a hater who will say anything bad. But I think she is super fair and balanced in her recollection of things. In fact, as Amy was recalling the exact scenario around Rulon's death, I was trying to remember what Rebecca's account of it was. So I opened my book to find it. But it wasn't there. That's why I couldn't recall. She recounts his illness leading up to his death, but out of respect for her late husband, she entire skipped the actual story of his death and how/when everyone was informed. At multiple points in the story she makes clear that she does take her previous marriage seriously and hold it sacred in her heart. She does also share some of the abuse that she endured at both the hands of Rulon and Warren. But she's fair and balanced. I'd love a video where you react to the book because it's so good and so powerful.
Check out Carolyn Jessops books also
And Rachel Jeffs‘ book 👍
Also clears up a lot of the misunderstandings and how the time line went with all those rules
I am SO glad that I found these interviews with Amy that I hadn't seen. Such a brave, strong and caring woman!
1:48:48 Broke my heart when she broke down. She is a good person and did what she thought was right. ❤
Amy, what a beautiful witness you are for doing the best you possibly know to do in the situation you find yourself, and then learning to do better when you have more information and more freedom . There is nothing more that anyone can do. The pain of choices you wish you had made differently is natural, and I sit here "with" you and in honor of you, for that real and earnest pain. At the exact same time, please comfort yourself knowing that nobody could have done any better than what you did. We can't hold ourselves to some impossible standard, no matter how much we may want to. We are only human. We all see better and clearer in hindsight. But...your kind and earnest and strong spirit is so clear, and has surely blessed all those who have known you. Be gracious and gentle with yourself. You're a beautiful example to many, who have come out of or are coming out of brainwashing type circumstances. Including me. Thank you for sharing your story. It's an honor to bear witness to your courage and your true heart. ❤❤❤
What a valuable point of view Amy brings. Seems like the death of Rulon really caught Warren by surprise and his mental health really deteriorated after Rulon’s passing. Sometimes it’s hard to hear he had a nice side, but if he was always a horrible tyrant I don’t think people would have put up with that
Amy, thank you for sharing your story. May love and light fill your life ❤❤
❤️Thank you!
Ive trained and supervised small work groups and I can't imagine the human relations, territory, preferences, efficiency etc with switching the jobs. Yet another power play and keeping leverage away from the victims. The children going to bed without knowing which "mom" would wake them in the morning is just mind-blowing to me as a mom. I can't imagine the lack of security the child had.
You speaking beautifully Amy. Thank you so much for sharing your story; it’s fascinating to hear from your perspective. You’re a beautiful soul and I wish you the very best in your life x.
Amy's story shines an interesting light on Warren that we've never seen before
I always wondered about Amy. As one of the “wives”, she always stood out because of her beautiful blonde hair! Happy to see her !!
This was riveting but heartbreaking, I couldn’t stop crying thinking about the children being taken away like that.
Dear Amy, you are precious in Gods sight, and honoured and He loves you. Praying for you
I am learning so much from these videos
Amy is so brave for telling her story! I hope she’s living a wonderful happy life now.
@KaraKamler Thank you! I am living a wonderful happy life filled with love and most importantly, family!
So happy for her
Thank you for sharing your story I saw the interview with cults to consciousness your all opening my eyes to the hell woman in cults deal with I'm sorry to dealt with that type of hell
What a sweet, beautiful lady! So glad that she’s out of this cult! The whole FLDS thing is the most dysfunctional, disgusting thing I’ve ever heard of.
Your intro music gives me full house vibes. Just like coming home from school to watch a sitcom. Sam are there ever references like that one where it still can completely go over your head due to your upbringing. Anyways now I’m old and just got off work to watch my fav yt channels. Thank you for sharing these stories!
This was a really good interview because she would only speak on her experience and not throw out assumptions of what others felt or experienced. This was great information.
This has been one of the most compelling videos I have seen - how horrendous for the poor mums and children 😢 looking forward to part 2 😢
She was so strong telling her story without inserting her perspective on it now. I hope Amy gives herself a lot of grace because she was raised into this cult. I get regretting things in hindsight but she did the best she knew at the time ❤
Amy has such a beautiful soul. Thank You for sharing your story.
It's so interesting to hear a different take on Warren. It really helps you to understand how people stick with him this long.
The pain these mothers had to go through, it just takes my breath away,
1:02:49 into it - YES it was Uncle Fred doing the Meeting - Warren was calling in - I'll never forget that meeting... I think I still have some hand written church notes from around that time... MIND BLOWING meeting, that one! (Died of Septic Shock from an Impacted Colon/Bowel Burst - he had had SO MUCH Orsa Clay - JAMMED SHUT!) Also... Amy, wasn't it only 7-8mos later that WSJ and I think the first Lady of his Fathers to be married to him had a Child?!!
1:16:27 - as I recall.... the running hiding / was INITIALLY due him being the "ONLY" legal person that could answer for any Lawsuit coming against the UEP TRUST - SOUL control or something?? - He was supposed answer and or reply having been LAWFULLY Subpoenaed - and then I remember a WHOLE LOT of the "Answer them nothing" message POURING out over the people in the meetings... and a LOT of "Bow Your Backs - Give The Lords ALL!" started happening...
The first group of ladies were married 10-7-02. First child born from one of Rulon's ladies, 7-28-03 and next ones, set of twins, born 9-3-03.
@@adadraper1905 Thanks for clarifying... I will stop mentioning that going forward! I appreciate your candor and speaking truth!
Of course it's confusing. Please look into narcissism. The most telling part, for me so far, is an older man taking a young lady who knows absolutely nothing about sex and much less anything about reproduction - then flat out insulting her and blaming her for her lack of knowledge. He was being very cruel to her and I'm not sure she even realizes this to this day. He sounds to me to be one of the most sexually selfish people I've ever heard of.
Narcissists flat out manipulate and lie. Period. They can be the "nicest" person ever, down to the most horrid person ever. It just depends on the situation and how they feel that day. They're going to behave "nicer" in front of a group they want to convince that they aren't a monster.
There is no cure for these types of people.
I think his daughter Rachel probably has the clearest picture of this man of anyone I've ever heard speak about him. I would say his son Ammon is probably catching up with her. Just from what little I've seen.
I agree. Coming from a religious background with some similarities, I concur to the niceness of the narcissist. It’s another way of controlling people, and she falls into the pleasing category.
That part struck me, too. He, a whole grown man, took offense at a remark made by a sixteen year old girl who knew nothing about sex or reproduction and then punished her for six months over it. He only relented when SHE came to HIM, and even then, it sounds like he never really let her live it down. Disgusting behavior on so many levels that really drives home his lack of deep, lasting compassion, empathy, and kindness.
I’m sure she is grateful now that she did not have children with him, but given that she was raised believing her purpose in life revolved around having children, I cannot imagine how painful it was to be neglected in that way. Especially as more wives were added and they became pregnant.
I’m so excited for part three! It’s fascinating to hear from someone who was married to Warren and spent time with him
I have watched this video so many times - I find Amy so soothing and lovely to listen too !! What a beautiful woman
Question: Does anyone know approximately how many wives and children have left the FLDS since Warren Jeffs incarnation?
Thanks for another great video. For a non-LDS person, I admit it is hard for me to comprehend some of this, but I love learning from Sam, Melissa, and their guests.
I love long interviews like this. There is so many pieces and stories you could talk for hours and I am here for it
Thank you Amy so much for sharing your story. You did a great job on what needed to occur you were brain washed but you did what needed to be done. I can’t wait to hear the rest of your story💕💕💕💕💕
❤❤ Thank you!
These women are hero’s! I appreciate you telling your story. You are quite an inspiration!
I have so much compassion for Amy ❤
Such an incredible story. I was so disgusted/angry at Warren as she was talking about how they were leaving for Zion- to watch the pain the wives and kids were experiencing and know you caused it and continue to follow through with it…such evil.
What a fantastic interview❤❤❤. Would love to hear more about Amy...Thankypu
I see your tears and pain; I think, as an outsider I can't fully understand, but your use of the word brainwashed is probably accurate. Thank you for sharing. I hope you have found peace, and know the true triune God who loves you.
There is a real danger in being manipulated by praise. Sounds like this very nice lady was easily duped
Well, that's what happens when you're born into a cult and brainwashed from birth. Be proud of the fact that she's broken free since those days.
Maybe, but the need for positive regard and acknowledgement is an extremely human one, which is pretty universal. In the corporate world, among parents and our kids- there’s really just nothing that hits quite the way a true, heartfelt compliment or observation that shows that your loved one or role model really truly sees you, and appreciates you, for something that’s either unique to you, or which shows deeply insightful knowledge of who you are as a person.
Compliments my parents have given me (VERY few and far between) even decades ago, I can still hear, in my mind’s ear, exactly how their voice sounded, when they spoke them to me, and exactly how I felt, hearing their words.
It’s a power that it’s important to wield mindfully, because this is a susceptibility that is pretty universal, even if you don’t care what most people think of you, that words of affirmation from loved ones or role models you hold dear in your heart, are meaningful to us all (whether we would prefer that they be so, or whether we wouldn’t)
I am happy to see these women and children are saving themselves. And making a life for themselves and seeing through the lies .
Amy, Barbara knew you would protect her babies. ❤❤❤
Can't but deeply respect people who escaped from the cult! Stay safe and strong, Amy!
Amy, bless your heart. You have the sweetest, most sincere spirit. Jesus loves you. My prayers are with you.❤
For clarification for those who may wonder:
The Prophet Joseph Smith prepared this statement on the principle of sacrifice for the Lectures on Faith: “Let us here observe, that a religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation” ( Lectures on Faith, 6:7).
This is from a lecture. The question of what is being sacrificed, when where and how and for what purpose is not answered by this statement. Many people sacrifice truth to support, promote and sustain evil. I don't think it is wisdom to blindly follow anyone nor blindly agree to something simply because of a statement made by anyone. I have seen evil men and women try to use, i.e., twist the meaning of words to manipulate others to do what they want them to do. I have seen and experienced the harm from such. Taking a single sentence out of an entire lecture to hold it over someone's head to manipulate them into doing something is so void of integrity. FLDS, LDS or any other religious belief or non-religious belief, manipulating others is wrong on every level!
I have a question, and I hope to not offend anyone.
Was it true that some young teenager boys of the FLDS were kicked out and be homeless so the young girls get married to old men? Since young girls would prefer to be married to younger guys
That's what it looked like to me, to be the case. I was born and raised in the group and had 6 brothers who were sent away. 2 were teenagers. It was very hard on me to witness that. I, like Amy, suppressed my emotions.
@@ruthsteed9597 I'm sorry you and your family had to go through that.. Did you guys have any idea where were they sent or something?
@@Evay Yes and no. I didn't really know where the boys went till years later. Mom told me she sent the youngest on a bus to Salt Lake with $20.
I should tell my story some time. I might be healed enough now to tell it.
So interesting to see these two souls who experienced polygamy in different settings talk with each other. And be so supportive to each other. Very cool.
Thank you to all three of you here for your patience, sharing and hopefully inspiring another flds member to leave. ❤❤❤
It’s amazing to me just how different people’s experiences are in the Flds. Amy seems like such a sweet person love her ❤.
Liked. Shared. Commented. Up the algorithm.
I am really surprised at how much indoctrination she still has...she keeps mentioning how she was so happy that she could keep sweet and Warren could count on her doing so as if that is a good thing...I. value having and expressing my voice and to me keeping sweet is the opposite of that...I hope she is able to express herself now...
Hi! This is Amy. I can understand why you say this but please take note of what I said, I'm telling it in the mindset I was back then. I'm much more independent now! Each person is different and comes along in their own way, at their own pace.
Really? I am AMAZED at how much she has de-programmed after living that lifestyle since birth. De-programming takes time.
Heartbreaking how she berates herself for being brainwashed when she was clearly under some kind of coercive control, and so, so sad when the mothers were parted from their kids to go to 'Zion'. 😭 0:59 0:59
She's terrific.
In the year now 2024, can we all agree that women and children do not need to be treated like cows 🐄 and horses on a farm ?
Im glad you got out your worth so much more. Its very brave of you to speak up to save other women in the flds have the power to leave
Oh wow! Riveting. Those children were so lucky to have such a caring and lovely lady to be with them during such a horrendous time. She also has managed to humanise and de romanticise the outsiders view of this period in the FLDS. Also interesting to see Warren Jeffs pre his power trip from someone who knew and could read him well. So very well told. CC
Ps if its not too private what happened to Sam's sister who married Ruland
I believe all of Rulon's wives were remarried to Warren after he died. Not sure if that happened to Sam's sister.
Sam mentioned in the video that she was not married to Rulon, but was remarried to another man.
@@powderandpaint14 Not all of them--all the older wives (the ones who would've been the mothers of most of his children who were by then, in their 50s and 60s if not older) were of no interest to Warren. Some, like Vicki Nielsen, went to his brothers--Vicki said in Preaching Evil that she married Leroy Jeffs, Warren's brother, so I'm sure his full brothers maybe got to pick the ladies that he didn't want. I think Sam's sister maybe also married Leroy because I remember reading Warren's dictations from when he kicked Leroy out that mentioned a lady with Sam's original last name--but of course there are so many siblings and people sharing names it may be a cousin or a sister who married Leroy from the getgo.
It's very interesting to hear insight directly from one of Warren's wife.
I say if he shunned you for 6 months I think that was a blessing for you!! Because he gives the ick, slimy vibe.. thinking of him touching someone just is gross.
Hard to comprehend these ladies really wanted "time" with him?
Thank you
Everytime a woman leaves the FLDS,an angel gains its wings
Amy is a good person and incredibly patient. I think many people whould have lost their mind.
What a beautiful lady Amy is. Looking out for the other wives and children and putting her own needs aside!! All I can see the whole time is how Warren used her and put her into situations such as looking after the pregnant ladies and watching them give birth. Then putting her with all the children as a reminder of what she will never have! I know she has such a special gift with the children and she took her responsibilities so seriously! But what an evil man to do this constant to families! Splitting them up and controlling them all over the years! May God bless these ladies and children and bring them all out from under this curse!
Great interview. Thank you for for sharing, Amy. Predators hide behind beauty.
Listening to Amy’s story is so heartbreaking 💔
Her describing her relationship with Warren sheds alotta light on how Kody is/was with his wives and his expectations for people getting his time/love/affection.
Warren was not at the meeting when Rulon died. Uncle Fred was conducting the meeting and Warren was calling into the meeting.
I am wondering how much influence the Jeffs have on current Arizona politics, private prisons, private security companies and infiltration of political parties, mental health facilities, police forces, and other control mechanisms of society.
SUCH a specific accent. The s is pronounced sh, the heavy pronunciation of the last consonant.
Must depend on where you live, ai don’t hear anything different.
Amy you are so brave💓
Is it possible Warren had a psychotic break when his father died?
Bless your heart
Thank you.
It’s really nice hearing Amy’s point of view. I wish I could tell her that she didn’t get sent away because she did something bad. She got sent away because Warren screwed up, corrected too many people so that he didn’t have enough funds to keep his wives. It wasn’t you Amy, it was his mistake