I know some of the comments are dwelling on his appearance and manner of speech. But I see this individual as a hero. He escaped an extremely toxic environment, and has probably had to reconstruct his entire life. Change takes time. But he has taken a massive step forward in sharing his story.❤
@@rachaelvandergaast7354Part of it I’m sure. Their speech, emotions, and thoughts were regulated. But also, it’s not as if he’s an actor or influencer. Not everyone loves being filmed or knows how to “perform” for a camera.
It always throws me when his children refer to him as “father.” It is so emotionally detached but provides so much insight to the father-child relationship.
My late mother and her siblings always referred to their dad as Father. Too me it was formal, but normal. My mother and my aunts were definitely "daddy's girls" and always had a loving relationship with him until he passed away.
In our house and most households we weren’t allowed to use mom, mum, mommy, dad or daddy. You had to address the parents as Mother and Father. Those of us that had more than one mom you called your birth mom Mother and the other moms Mother Amy or whatever their name was. We grew up calling them that so it was just normal to us
He did not really show facial expression until he said, "mentally and physically out." Then he got a big beautiful smile on his face! So nice to see the transformation. I think it also shows that when he's telling the story, he's still mentally and physically going through it, unfortunately. I'm sure it takes a very long time to get completely over it.
I'd say FUBAR for life. Brainwashed and manipulated his whole life. Worse yet,most that leave FLDS join the LDS church another haven for master manipulaters and their flock. If you did not know,only reason LDS church officially stopped polygamy,US calvary was given orders to stop Brigham Youngs madness,and only way Utah for to become a state was polygamy had to be officially obliterated. Remember, marrying young girls was the thing then too.
Ammon's best line? It was when you asked about why W. Jeffs had so many wives. Ammon said "I think it was a moral problem". Perfect summation Ammon! Can't wait to read your book!
thank you for continiously platforming people whose lives were affected by Jeffs. it's important for the survivors to have a voice and be able the share their story on their own terms. as an outsider i am honoured to able to listen to first hand testimonies. everyone is trying their best irregardless of circumstances, i deeply appreciate the work you both do 💜
and thank you Ammon for sharing your story. it takes a lot of courage to talk about what happened to you and your family, and i hope you will find peace and healing as you go.
Boy, the comments are usually a lot friendlier and a LOT more supportive, than many of those I’m seeing today. That’s too bad, bc I think this guest is very courageous to share his story, and I feel very confident that, given how far he’s already come, seems pretty ridiculous to try and impose limiting or discouraging beliefs onto him. I know we haven’t met, but he seems like an extraordinarily powerful person, from where I’m sitting. I would love to read his book; I bet it’s excellent and insightful. Another outstanding episode
I left a different cult but I speak from experience. When this young man said he had been out just under a year the tears flowed from my eyes. The mental side of leaving is excruciating. I'm sure he will be reading these comments. He is brave and courageous. And he is strong. He will go on to do wonderful things.
To answer your question, R23 and R17 were named for their travel time from Short Creek. On page 108 of "Breaking Free" Rachel Jeffs (Ammon's sister) writes "The land was code named R17 (Refuge 17), since it was seventeen hours from Short Creek." I read it recently and found that detail kind of funny, so I remembered it. Had to share!
Ammon's underreacting - when his anger at injustice is so clear in his voice - is so affecting. To think he had been indoctrinated to not react hurts my heart. I applaud his courage, in speaking about the abuses he, and others, suffered to appease his father's ego.
so interesting that during the raid they were worried about children being separated from their mothers, but that was normalized when the leaders of the group did it.
The trauma of the 1953 raid in Short Creek of the FLDS community of the federal government was still with the people. Some families who had their children ripped from their arms in the 1953 raid never had their children returned. They didn't trust the government for good reason. When children were removed from individual families and placed with other families in the FLDS community by their faith leader yes there was trauma there, too. But they trusted their prophet and hoped they'd be reunited. Whereas removal by the government was having a child taken away into the unknown. Both are terrible scenarios but I can understand why they feared the government more than their prophet.
@@eliandstephtvyou are so right. They were brutalized by the government at the time. Today they are ignored. The fact that these kind of community leave so apart from the rest of us isn't only because they want it separation from the world, but they don't trust outsiders because of situations like the raids. A lot of abuse happens inside homes, whether they are in a cult or not. But it is easier to happen inside compounds like Jeff's.
Good point, according to the accounts I have read and heard, Warren Jeffs was the primary leader that would separate families. Before Warren, the people would describe their childhood's as wonderful. The fear of losing your husband and kids were paralyzing and would be a tactic to keep "blind obedience". During the Texas YFZ raid, mother's would swap kids in order to confuse the authorities, and that is one reason why they took all of the kids (to figure out who was who). Some kids would be taken into the UO- United Order, taken from their parents (that were not in the OU) and taken to Texas and given to other mother's to care for ("re-assigned"). Warren is pure evil and a pedophile.
i knew jeffs is an evil evil man but hearing he didn't let his wife see a doctor for a year? she knew something's wrong, she could've gotten help a lot sooner :( late stage breast cancer is brutal, going through chemo TWICE when your cult leader husband is telling you it's all your fault... all while he was praying for you to die??? this is licherally impossible to understand level of heartless. may she rest in peace. i got so upset while hearing Ammon talk about it, i can't imagine going through something like that.
That's definitely an aspect a cult life: 1. The husband/father is always in control of everything, and often withholds permission for even the most basic things (more of a power-trip than anything of substance); and 2. They believe (or pretend to believe) that Jesus heals & fixes everything, so they may not seek medical advice until it's too late, if at all. There's rarely any actual common sense or logic present within such cult communities.
I’m so thankful to hear that you believed your sister when she confided in you about the abuse she experienced. It’s terrifying not knowing if you’ll be believed, and it really does my heart good when I hear about more victims and survivors being believed. Thank you, thank you, thank you. 🙏💖✨
Exactly, its so important to be believed if you finally have the courage to speak. But please dont label it as „her“ truth. It was THE truth, not her truth. I remember when i had my trial. Andit always bothered me when somebody said „her truth“. It is insulting bc it implies that there is also another truth. Sorry, i dont to be mean, but to survivors this little words have big meanings, especially if you have no self love or if you‘ve never been believed… i wish you a nice day ❤
Not just human trafficking of women but also the men, who were used as slave labour. A hard listen and sad interview which exposed the maniacal delusion the leader was under. I felt for this young man, his mother and his family 💔
What a great interview. It's amazing to see that Warren Jeffs' children are still waking up and leaving to this day. I wish Ammon a very happy life. His book is already on my Kindle wishlist.
Ammon I’m nearly done with your book after seeing this interview! I am so proud of you! What an amazing person and how determined and strong to make it through so many trials. As a mother I was feeling fiercely protective of you and wanting to save you from all your father put you through. I’m glad you are free now!
As a former member of a fundamentalist group, watching him break down his story and his faith crisis is so so heartbreaking. I relate in some ways - although my experience was nothing compared to his. I pray for peace for him moving forward and the ability to move on in strength. I’m excited to read his book. I read Rachel’s book and loved every second of it. These people who are leaving the FLDS are so strong and courageous. I’m inspired by them! ❤
Every word spoken layed on a scale, be careful not to show too much emotion on your face. Constantly being aware that you're either looked up to or people waiting for you to stumble. Can you imagine growing up like that?
I just love you two, and support your guests in their faith journey and recovery! I am ex-Mormon and never thought about deconstructing the faith for over 50 years! Your channel, and others, have been immensely helpful in healing my heart!
It is very apparent that Ammon has not been out very long. You seem to be doing very well, considering the time you have had to adjust. Thank you for sharing your story!
Thank you to him for sharing his story bravely and to Sam & Melissa for providing a platform for this important story to be told. Prayers for those still healing from the pain of this situation.
Bless this man! No one knows the depth of what he’s going through. And the courage it takes to step aside and to listen to the spirit for your life. The heart break of leaving those you love knowing they’ll never think of you the same. Building from the ground up a whole new life and believing God loves you no matter. I pray for everyone in need of faith and courage to follow the spirit and intuitions within
Sending compassion to Ammon for all the suffering and loss. I hope he has wonderful symbiotic support with his siblings and hopefully some aunts or uncles etc. So much respect here for stepping up in so many ways during such a tumultuous life. I hope many decades of peace and truth are awaiting. ❤
I so appreciated hearing this perspective. And I have so much admiration for your guest that endured corruption in his family AND in government entities.
Thank You, Ammon for speaking publicly and writing a book about your experiences. I’m so glad you are free, and that you have family and friends around you.
I saw you on Cults To Consciousness and fell in love with you guys. I grew up very fundamentalist evangelical in Texas. These stories mean so much to all of us. This survivor community is filled with such beautiful, strong, amazing people. Sending so much love to you all.. I hope nothing more that Ammon fines healing.
The FLDS and LDS channels are so fascinating. I’m encouraged by the strength of all of you to speak out. This young man is so impressive. This video was a beautiful way to start my day.
15:38 I know I heard Rachel Jeffs tell what R17, R23, etc. meant. Perhaps it was in her book (she narrated the audiobook herself).... I think she said it was a distance thing, such as the number of hours it took to drive to each one. I could be wrong.
You are correct. The one that doesn't jive with that is the one om Colorado being called R1. But yes, she said Texas and South Dakota compounds were called that bc they were 17 and 23 hours away from Short Creek.
Wow his voice is so similar to Warren's. So sad he didn't let his mom get the care she needed when she first knew something was wrong. His story is so sad.
I just purchased your book, Ammon. Thanks for sharing your unique story. It is very sad to hear of the trauma and grief that has been caused by a man like your father going astray. I wish you the greatest blessings in your new life.
Interesting and scary tale. This guy's apparent lack of emotion is telling. Finally, a smile when he said he was "out." Many many years of hiding any personal emotion must take a while to get over. Wow
The way he spat out the word 'father' so many times. 😥 Poor guy - I can't even begin to imagine how awful his life had become. I am so glad he managed to escape and discover freedom.
What a stunning story. Thank you Ammon for sharing what must've been the biggest challenge a young man could ever face. Condolences for the loss of your mother. And that you have reconnected with your sister is a beautiful thing. All the very best for your new adventures, and much love to you all.
Oh my goodness, the story of his mom broke me, 💔 im still less than a year of losing my sister from ovarian cancer, by the time they found it she was beyond stage 3 , my heart aches for him 💔 😢
Leaving a comment for the algorithm. The world needs to know what happened under Warrens thumb. I am so so glad that Ammon was able to harness the emotional and mature strength necessary to be able to leave the church.
I've noticed that too. I've lived in Ohio, New York, and now Missouri and I hear pieces and parts of all 3 in any of the FLDS interviews I've seen (Cults to Consciousness, Mormon Stories, and now Sam and Melissa's channel).
Omg looking for this, he’s sounds Irish then falls into American but I’d swear he was Irish originally. Altho i heard ppl from the bayou speak and they sound like their from a foreign country imo.
My dad who was born in and has lived in southern Utah his whole life has a similar cadence. My mom was from CA so my accent is more like hers which I am glad about. 😅
Hi Amon! Thanks for talking with us. You and Rachel both look SO MUCH like your mother. I can tell from your interview how much she loved you, and how much you love her.
What about the men being used as slaves and their family used as pawns? Perfect example here Noone sees. Women want equal treatment. I don't think they really do.....
My husband and I moved to Phoenix, AZ in 1988. We were partners in a commercial general contracting business and my husband had jobs in the Colorado City area. I/we were oblivious of the FLDS community and what was going on there until our company was hired. I was absolutely knocked over by my husband telling me!!! In the early 2000’s, one of our local news reporters, Mike Watkiss, started reporting on the polygamous community. The more I heard, the more shocked/upset I was! I COULD NOT believe this was happening in America in the 21st century!!! I still can’t believe it! I’m absolutely amazed by those with the courage to leave everything and everyone they’ve ever known to recreate their lives. That takes a tremendous amount of courage! I pray that your courage has yielded you the happiness that you deserve in this life.🙏🏻 Ammon, I will definitely be reading your book! ❤
This has to be the most interesting and in depth podcasts i have listend to on this whole issue. Such a sad situation. Amazes me the police alow the church to continue. History will reapeat almost certinaly. Thank you so very much to the three of you for this podcast. I wish you all the very best, and hope you can rebuild you lives. Much love to all involved. Kind regards from Australia
It was interesting to hear that he and Rachael are true siblings. They are very alike in voice, mannerisms, and looks. I am happy he has been able to get away and will be able to enjoy his life. Congrats on the book - I hope it's a great success!
Wow he just recently left. Congrats to him, and his family that made that choice. I hope he finds his own happiness, and not from what others tell him he has to do. I'm glad they have a support system. Bless them and their freedom.
Great interview guys. It took me way too long to realize Sam looks different because he got a haircut. This is such a great perspective because you don't often get stories of male ex-members and especially people who left so recently. I'm adding the book to my TBR 💜
This is the part so many people don’t understand. If people look into what makes a cult and know what to look for I think people would see more cults than just the ones based on religion that have been exposed.
Yes, when you're a child of course you're raised in this you're born in this but at some point there are signs that show this can't be the God of creation. And so I am happy that these people or so many of them got out of this cult. now they probably won't ever go to unless the Lord draws their heart they will never be part of any other religion especially not the Christian religion but I pray that they heart will be drawn to the true God of the Bible
When I came to visit family near by in 1995 from S.F. I sat down with a group of teens at the diner in Colorado city . I was a teen as well . I was in short short shorts crop top . I just started asking questions . They were such cool kids ! They talked to me about the ways out there . They asked me questions about San Fran . I really enjoyed that moment. I sometimes wonder about them . We are all much older now ❤
When he’s speaking of Racheal and he says, “we have the same mother”. How jolting that is to the monogamous mind to hear. I keep all of these children in my prayers. This was the only lifestyle and culture they knew and to be ripped out of it must’ve been devastating.
Can I just congratulate you on a great interview, the love and respect you two showed just filled me up. Melissa you are such an empathetic human being and full of love and the way you Sam related to him and shared your life and made him comfortable was just beautiful. I’m sorry I didn’t catch your name (the gentleman being interviewed) way to go you too , I hope you have a free and happy life ❤
Hey Melissa and Sam! I just finished watching an interview on New World Old Soul youtube channel with Rachel and Ammon. In the interview Ammon spoke briefly about his wife's story (also former flds) and it sounded interesting. Perhaps you could do another video with both Ammon and his wife (if she's up to it of course). Maybe even one with Rachel as well. :)
It makes my heart hurt that his mother was not allowed to get care for her cancer early enough and also that he made her feel responsible for it. I'm thankful God is one of love and peace. Bless her soul❤
This case and a case in Abilene Texas led to many changes in the child protective agency over the next few years. If the changes bring about better services for children remains to be seen.
I just want to mother all three of you kids…you’re all about the same ages as our oldest children…my heart breaks for you all. But I’m also very happy to see such thoughtful, compassionate and caring people you all are and at such young ages, to have such wisdom. You will make the world a better place through your experiences 💙
Yes! Same! My boys are grown, too, but I still need them, and they still need me. I can't imagine a life separated from them. I lost my folks as a young woman. 30 years have passed, and I still wish I had them with me. My heart breaks for those who don't have parents or have shitty parents. I want to mother them all. 😢
Thanks for sharing. This episode is helping me to understand why my mother is still so wrapped up in the cult. I’m sorry to hear that happened to your mother. She and her children deserved better. I hope life is mostly happy and not too heavy for you Ammon! 😢💔💔💔❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹 27:13
Just you telling the story of the time you took to write the book, it is close to your heart & personal. Thank you for sharing your story.❤ I am going to get the book.
One of the most sad parts of the law enforcement showing up was they wanted to help the people and save the children unfortunately Warren had everyone so brainwashed and scared and LE didn’t have a full comprehension of the FLDS culture 😢💔
I know some of the comments are dwelling on his appearance and manner of speech. But I see this individual as a hero. He escaped an extremely toxic environment, and has probably had to reconstruct his entire life. Change takes time. But he has taken a massive step forward in sharing his story.❤
His affect is so flat
@@roykriletich8751 Could also be because of the conditioning he experienced.
Absolutely a hero. None of us can imagine how indoctrinated he was from birth.
@@rachaelvandergaast7354Part of it I’m sure. Their speech, emotions, and thoughts were regulated. But also, it’s not as if he’s an actor or influencer. Not everyone loves being filmed or knows how to “perform” for a camera.
@@roykriletich8751 I'd love to see your magnificent self (💩) after going through what this poor young man endured. Judge much?
It always throws me when his children refer to him as “father.” It is so emotionally detached but provides so much insight to the father-child relationship.
Rachel Jeffs now calls him “That Warren Guy” 😂
My late mother and her siblings always referred to their dad as Father. Too me it was formal, but normal. My mother and my aunts were definitely "daddy's girls" and always had a loving relationship with him until he passed away.
In our house and most households we weren’t allowed to use mom, mum, mommy, dad or daddy. You had to address the parents as Mother and Father. Those of us that had more than one mom you called your birth mom Mother and the other moms Mother Amy or whatever their name was.
We grew up calling them that so it was just normal to us
Oh and in school you addressed all teachers as Aunt or Uncle
@@jewel1247 Same here. And all the men that were highly esteemed in the group were Uncle.. and their name. Grew up in the salt lake part of the flds
He did not really show facial expression until he said, "mentally and physically out." Then he got a big beautiful smile on his face! So nice to see the transformation. I think it also shows that when he's telling the story, he's still mentally and physically going through it, unfortunately. I'm sure it takes a very long time to get completely over it.
I'd say FUBAR for life. Brainwashed and manipulated his whole life. Worse yet,most that leave FLDS join the LDS church another haven for master manipulaters and their flock. If you did not know,only reason LDS church officially stopped polygamy,US calvary was given orders to stop Brigham Youngs madness,and only way Utah for to become a state was polygamy had to be officially obliterated. Remember, marrying young girls was the thing then too.
Ammon's best line? It was when you asked about why W. Jeffs had so many wives. Ammon said "I think it was a moral problem". Perfect summation Ammon! Can't wait to read your book!
Congratulations to Ammon for taking that big step. I wish him ALL the best. I’m glad he has a support network in place.
thank you for continiously platforming people whose lives were affected by Jeffs. it's important for the survivors to have a voice and be able the share their story on their own terms. as an outsider i am honoured to able to listen to first hand testimonies. everyone is trying their best irregardless of circumstances, i deeply appreciate the work you both do 💜
and thank you Ammon for sharing your story. it takes a lot of courage to talk about what happened to you and your family, and i hope you will find peace and healing as you go.
Thank you for your kind words and support! ❤️
Boy, the comments are usually a lot friendlier and a LOT more supportive, than many of those I’m seeing today. That’s too bad, bc I think this guest is very courageous to share his story, and I feel very confident that, given how far he’s already come, seems pretty ridiculous to try and impose limiting or discouraging beliefs onto him. I know we haven’t met, but he seems like an extraordinarily powerful person, from where I’m sitting. I would love to read his book; I bet it’s excellent and insightful.
Another outstanding episode
Yes 👏
People are just curious, there is nothing wrong with that. I'm not seeing any negative comments.
I completely agree with you
What comments are you referring to? I don’t see any negative comments.
I am not seeing many negative comments my friend. But I agree with you about him.
Wow. He left so recently and yet he’s so progressed on his outlook on life on the outside. Thanks for sharing ❤
I left a different cult but I speak from experience. When this young man said he had been out just under a year the tears flowed from my eyes. The mental side of leaving is excruciating. I'm sure he will be reading these comments. He is brave and courageous. And he is strong. He will go on to do wonderful things.
He seems shut down but i understand certain cultures teach you to be robotic and soft spoken don't show emotion etc
To answer your question, R23 and R17 were named for their travel time from Short Creek. On page 108 of "Breaking Free" Rachel Jeffs (Ammon's sister) writes "The land was code named R17 (Refuge 17), since it was seventeen hours from Short Creek." I read it recently and found that detail kind of funny, so I remembered it. Had to share!
That is so simple it sounds like something warren Jeff’s would come up with 😂
Is Rachel his full sister, or just a half sister?
@@powderandpaint14 full.
📌 This should be pinned!
Im currently reading Rachel’s book. It’s really good to read it
Ammon's underreacting - when his anger at injustice is so clear in his voice - is so affecting. To think he had been indoctrinated to not react hurts my heart. I applaud his courage, in speaking about the abuses he, and others, suffered to appease his father's ego.
so interesting that during the raid they were worried about children being separated from their mothers, but that was normalized when the leaders of the group did it.
The trauma of the 1953 raid in Short Creek of the FLDS community of the federal government was still with the people. Some families who had their children ripped from their arms in the 1953 raid never had their children returned. They didn't trust the government for good reason. When children were removed from individual families and placed with other families in the FLDS community by their faith leader yes there was trauma there, too. But they trusted their prophet and hoped they'd be reunited. Whereas removal by the government was having a child taken away into the unknown. Both are terrible scenarios but I can understand why they feared the government more than their prophet.
@@eliandstephtvyou are so right. They were brutalized by the government at the time. Today they are ignored. The fact that these kind of community leave so apart from the rest of us isn't only because they want it separation from the world, but they don't trust outsiders because of situations like the raids. A lot of abuse happens inside homes, whether they are in a cult or not. But it is easier to happen inside compounds like Jeff's.
Correct. They were lying to protect warren jeffs
Good point, according to the accounts I have read and heard, Warren Jeffs was the primary leader that would separate families. Before Warren, the people would describe their childhood's as wonderful. The fear of losing your husband and kids were paralyzing and would be a tactic to keep "blind obedience". During the Texas YFZ raid, mother's would swap kids in order to confuse the authorities, and that is one reason why they took all of the kids (to figure out who was who). Some kids would be taken into the UO- United Order, taken from their parents (that were not in the OU) and taken to Texas and given to other mother's to care for ("re-assigned"). Warren is pure evil and a pedophile.
@eliandstephtvthose children should NEVERhave been given back to those abusers!
This was so awesome. Ammon was our neighbor just recently. My husband really liked talking to him
i knew jeffs is an evil evil man but hearing he didn't let his wife see a doctor for a year? she knew something's wrong, she could've gotten help a lot sooner :( late stage breast cancer is brutal, going through chemo TWICE when your cult leader husband is telling you it's all your fault... all while he was praying for you to die??? this is licherally impossible to understand level of heartless. may she rest in peace. i got so upset while hearing Ammon talk about it, i can't imagine going through something like that.
That's definitely an aspect a cult life: 1. The husband/father is always in control of everything, and often withholds permission for even the most basic things (more of a power-trip than anything of substance); and 2. They believe (or pretend to believe) that Jesus heals & fixes everything, so they may not seek medical advice until it's too late, if at all.
There's rarely any actual common sense or logic present within such cult communities.
And what is inside him is pure 🙄🤢hell 🔥
I’m so thankful to hear that you believed your sister when she confided in you about the abuse she experienced. It’s terrifying not knowing if you’ll be believed, and it really does my heart good when I hear about more victims and survivors being believed.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. 🙏💖✨
Thank you for standing up in support for your sister, When she told you her truth !! ❤❤❤ that’s a real man
Exactly, its so important to be believed if you finally have the courage to speak. But please dont label it as „her“ truth. It was THE truth, not her truth. I remember when i had my trial. Andit always bothered me when somebody said „her truth“. It is insulting bc it implies that there is also another truth. Sorry, i dont to be mean, but to survivors this little words have big meanings, especially if you have no self love or if you‘ve never been believed… i wish you a nice day ❤
He sounds like an excellent young man. I am sorry for the loss of his mother. I apprecate these videos
Not just human trafficking of women but also the men, who were used as slave labour. A hard listen and sad interview which exposed the maniacal delusion the leader was under. I felt for this young man, his mother and his family 💔
True. The men were trafficked for labor. The women were trafficked for both sex, involuntary reproduction and labor.
What a great interview. It's amazing to see that Warren Jeffs' children are still waking up and leaving to this day. I wish Ammon a very happy life. His book is already on my Kindle wishlist.
Ammon I’m nearly done with your book after seeing this interview! I am so proud of you! What an amazing person and how determined and strong to make it through so many trials. As a mother I was feeling fiercely protective of you and wanting to save you from all your father put you through. I’m glad you are free now!
As a former member of a fundamentalist group, watching him break down his story and his faith crisis is so so heartbreaking. I relate in some ways - although my experience was nothing compared to his. I pray for peace for him moving forward and the ability to move on in strength. I’m excited to read his book. I read Rachel’s book and loved every second of it. These people who are leaving the FLDS are so strong and courageous. I’m inspired by them! ❤
I cried when he said how his mom was treated 😢
Me too. Lost my sister to breast cancer. I died inside when I heard how his mom was treated.
That was horrific
My heart goes out to everyone who was damaged by the whole situation surrounding this subject. The damage that was done is extremely sad. ❤🙏
his momma gave her kids so much strength. sending lots of love and thank you for sharing this story!
One way or another, she sure did, despite the circumstances 💓💓💓
The part where he discussed his mother being sick and not being taken care of properly was heartbreaking to me. I'm so sorry for your loss, Ammon.
Every word spoken layed on a scale, be careful not to show too much emotion on your face. Constantly being aware that you're either looked up to or people waiting for you to stumble. Can you imagine growing up like that?
Yes, I definitely can, but I was undiagnosed w/ ADD and autism, until I was almost 17. (Just minus the part about people looking up to me)
I couldn’t even imagine or want to know what that feels like 😫
I can see its effect on his face, he shows few emotions. Very flat affect.
I just love you two, and support your guests in their faith journey and recovery! I am ex-Mormon and never thought about deconstructing the faith for over 50 years! Your channel, and others, have been immensely helpful in healing my heart!
Cheers!
Thank you so much❤️ We're so happy to hear that you've found support through the stories of our guests.
I’m glad you’re out of the Mormon faith. It destroys lives!
It is very apparent that Ammon has not been out very long. You seem to be doing very well, considering the time you have had to adjust. Thank you for sharing your story!
Thank you to him for sharing his story bravely and to Sam & Melissa for providing a platform for this important story to be told. Prayers for those still healing from the pain of this situation.
This is sad and wrong on so many levels. I am so glad he has broken free and has a support group. Thanks for being brave and for sharing your story.
Bless this man! No one knows the depth of what he’s going through. And the courage it takes to step aside and to listen to the spirit for your life. The heart break of leaving those you love knowing they’ll never think of you the same. Building from the ground up a whole new life and believing God loves you no matter. I pray for everyone in need of faith and courage to follow the spirit and intuitions within
Sending compassion to Ammon for all the suffering and loss. I hope he has wonderful symbiotic support with his siblings and hopefully some aunts or uncles etc. So much respect here for stepping up in so many ways during such a tumultuous life. I hope many decades of peace and truth are awaiting. ❤
This interview with Ammon was very eye opening. Such a recent about face in his life. I wish him all the best
I so appreciated hearing this perspective. And I have so much admiration for your guest that endured corruption in his family AND in government entities.
Such a fascinating interview. Thank you all
Thank You, Ammon for speaking publicly and writing a book about your experiences. I’m so glad you are free, and that you have family and friends around you.
Had to pause the video and buy his book… what an incredible young man he is. I’m so happy he’s decided to share his story.
I saw you on Cults To Consciousness and fell in love with you guys. I grew up very fundamentalist evangelical in Texas. These stories mean so much to all of us. This survivor community is filled with such beautiful, strong, amazing people. Sending so much love to you all.. I hope nothing more that Ammon fines healing.
Thank you!
The FLDS and LDS channels are so fascinating. I’m encouraged by the strength of all of you to speak out. This young man is so impressive. This video was a beautiful way to start my day.
15:38 I know I heard Rachel Jeffs tell what R17, R23, etc. meant. Perhaps it was in her book (she narrated the audiobook herself).... I think she said it was a distance thing, such as the number of hours it took to drive to each one. I could be wrong.
You are correct. The one that doesn't jive with that is the one om Colorado being called R1. But yes, she said Texas and South Dakota compounds were called that bc they were 17 and 23 hours away from Short Creek.
Ammon, you are so on point with your explanations. Wonderful interview.
Powerful interview. A wonderful young man on the right path in life. Thank you, Ammon, Sam and Melissa.
Wow his voice is so similar to Warren's. So sad he didn't let his mom get the care she needed when she first knew something was wrong. His story is so sad.
I just purchased your book, Ammon. Thanks for sharing your unique story. It is very sad to hear of the trauma and grief that has been caused by a man like your father going astray. I wish you the greatest blessings in your new life.
Interesting and scary tale. This guy's apparent lack of emotion is telling. Finally, a smile when he said he was "out." Many many years of hiding any personal emotion must take a while to get over. Wow
Whoa. His voice ( tone and cadence ) sounds so similar to his father’s. 😳
It bone chilling
I've seen quite a few videos of interviews with flds survivors and they have the same tone and cadence. Including Rachel Jeffs.
Conditioning.
The way he spat out the word 'father' so many times. 😥 Poor guy - I can't even begin to imagine how awful his life had become. I am so glad he managed to escape and discover freedom.
Thank you for sharing your story and for exposing this horrible Cult. Glad you are free.
What a stunning story. Thank you Ammon for sharing what must've been the biggest challenge a young man could ever face. Condolences for the loss of your mother. And that you have reconnected with your sister is a beautiful thing. All the very best for your new adventures, and much love to you all.
I feel somuch compassion fot this young man. I pray God blesses him and strengthens him.
This young man has gone through so much. I can’t imagine. Praying for healing
Oh my goodness, the story of his mom broke me, 💔 im still less than a year of losing my sister from ovarian cancer, by the time they found it she was beyond stage 3 , my heart aches for him 💔 😢
I have so much compassion for everyone hurt by this, my heart breaks for them.
Leaving a comment for the algorithm. The world needs to know what happened under Warrens thumb. I am so so glad that Ammon was able to harness the emotional and mature strength necessary to be able to leave the church.
Great interview. It was kind of unnerving how much his voice is like his father’s.
Wonderful interview. Very courageous young man. God bless him and protect him in his new freedom.
The accent of those who grew up similarly to Ammon is so interesting. It's unlike any other American accent I've heard.
I've noticed that too. I've lived in Ohio, New York, and now Missouri and I hear pieces and parts of all 3 in any of the FLDS interviews I've seen (Cults to Consciousness, Mormon Stories, and now Sam and Melissa's channel).
Its the Intermountain West accent, especially Idaho and Southern Utah
Omg looking for this, he’s sounds Irish then falls into American but I’d swear he was Irish originally. Altho i heard ppl from the bayou speak and they sound like their from a foreign country imo.
My dad who was born in and has lived in southern Utah his whole life has a similar cadence. My mom was from CA so my accent is more like hers which I am glad about. 😅
It almost reminds me of an Amish accent (Pennsylvania Dutch mixed with regional twangs)
Two amazing men and one very supportive wife. Wishing all 3 of you every happiness x
Hi Amon! Thanks for talking with us. You and Rachel both look SO MUCH like your mother. I can tell from your interview how much she loved you, and how much you love her.
Can’t wait to read his book. I know it will be sad. I’m so sorry for what all of these children and mothers went through
What about the men being used as slaves and their family used as pawns? Perfect example here Noone sees. Women want equal treatment. I don't think they really do.....
Thank you 🙏❤ I don't know yall, but im so so proud of you all! ❤❤thank you for speaking up!
What an interesting interview! It's great to hear from someone who left the group so recently!
Just bought the book. Looking forward to reading it. What a heartbreaking story. So glad Ammon is doing well. I wish him every happiness.
My husband and I moved to Phoenix, AZ in 1988. We were partners in a commercial general contracting business and my husband had jobs in the Colorado City area. I/we were oblivious of the FLDS community and what was going on there until our company was hired. I was absolutely knocked over by my husband telling me!!! In the early 2000’s, one of our local news reporters, Mike Watkiss, started reporting on the polygamous community. The more I heard, the more shocked/upset I was! I COULD NOT believe this was happening in America in the 21st century!!! I still can’t believe it!
I’m absolutely amazed by those with the courage to leave everything and everyone they’ve ever known to recreate their lives. That takes a tremendous amount of courage! I pray that your courage has yielded you the happiness that you deserve in this life.🙏🏻 Ammon, I will definitely be reading your book! ❤
Wow what a courageous guy! Definitely cried when he talked about his mom passing. Hope he gets more and more out of that with him speaking up. ❤
This has to be the most interesting and in depth podcasts i have listend to on this whole issue. Such a sad situation. Amazes me the police alow the church to continue. History will reapeat almost certinaly. Thank you so very much to the three of you for this podcast. I wish you all the very best, and hope you can rebuild you lives. Much love to all involved. Kind regards from Australia
Always appreciate your interviews & videos!! ❤❤❤
Thank you! 😊
I’m so glad he got out , he’s very brave to tell his story. Jeffs, Kingston’s and other FLDS clans can be incredibly difficult to leave
It was interesting to hear that he and Rachael are true siblings. They are very alike in voice, mannerisms, and looks. I am happy he has been able to get away and will be able to enjoy his life. Congrats on the book - I hope it's a great success!
Wow he just recently left. Congrats to him, and his family that made that choice. I hope he finds his own happiness, and not from what others tell him he has to do. I'm glad they have a support system. Bless them and their freedom.
Bless you all for breaking free from that mind bondage!
You had some amazing guests lately. I wish Ammon all the best and hope he will get all the healing and support he needs.
Love the work and information you provide on this awesome channel ❤🏴
Great interview guys. It took me way too long to realize Sam looks different because he got a haircut. This is such a great perspective because you don't often get stories of male ex-members and especially people who left so recently. I'm adding the book to my TBR 💜
Thank God Ammon saw the truth and was able to escape. Hopefully his story will allow those who remain in bondage to see they can be free as well.
Nobody joins a cult, nobody knows when they're In a cult.
This is the part so many people don’t understand. If people look into what makes a cult and know what to look for I think people would see more cults than just the ones based on religion that have been exposed.
Yes, when you're a child of course you're raised in this you're born in this but at some point there are signs that show this can't be the God of creation. And so I am happy that these people or so many of them got out of this cult. now they probably won't ever go to unless the Lord draws their heart they will never be part of any other religion especially not the Christian religion but I pray that they heart will be drawn to the true God of the Bible
When I came to visit family near by in 1995 from S.F. I sat down with a group of teens at the diner in Colorado city . I was a teen as well . I was in short short shorts crop top . I just started asking questions . They were such cool kids ! They talked to me about the ways out there . They asked me questions about San Fran . I really enjoyed that moment. I sometimes wonder about them . We are all much older now ❤
How brave of Ammon, wish him all the best.
When he’s speaking of Racheal and he says, “we have the same mother”. How jolting that is to the monogamous mind to hear.
I keep all of these children in my prayers. This was the only lifestyle and culture they knew and to be ripped out of it must’ve been devastating.
Loved hearing this interview. Bless you, Ammon!!
This book is on my list. Thank you. I’m so glad he made the choice to change his life. Difficult but he will persevere.
Great interview 😊
Only been out a year June of 2024?
He is doing amazingly
Can I just congratulate you on a great interview, the love and respect you two showed just filled me up. Melissa you are such an empathetic human being and full of love and the way you Sam related to him and shared your life and made him comfortable was just beautiful. I’m sorry I didn’t catch your name (the gentleman being interviewed) way to go you too , I hope you have a free and happy life ❤
Thanks, you are a brave young man. I wish you the best. I am going to buy your books.
I haven’t been on here for a minute- enjoying the quality- excited for the interview. Love to all y’all.
Ammon ❤️ so happy for you. I know you’re going to help so many.
Great interview. So happy you are free. God Bless.
Ammon was mentioned in Rachels book and I always hoped and wondered if he got out too.
I'm adding his book to my list of books to read!
Hey Melissa and Sam!
I just finished watching an interview on New World Old Soul youtube channel with Rachel and Ammon. In the interview Ammon spoke briefly about his wife's story (also former flds) and it sounded interesting. Perhaps you could do another video with both Ammon and his wife (if she's up to it of course). Maybe even one with Rachel as well. :)
It makes my heart hurt that his mother was not allowed to get care for her cancer early enough and also that he made her feel responsible for it. I'm thankful God is one of love and peace. Bless her soul❤
Ammon has a bright future ahead of him - ☀️ he has gone through so much and seems to be doing so well
This case and a case in Abilene Texas led to many changes in the child protective agency over the next few years. If the changes bring about better services for children remains to be seen.
I just want to mother all three of you kids…you’re all about the same ages as our oldest children…my heart breaks for you all. But I’m also very happy to see such thoughtful, compassionate and caring people you all are and at such young ages, to have such wisdom. You will make the world a better place through your experiences 💙
Yes! Same! My boys are grown, too, but I still need them, and they still need me. I can't imagine a life separated from them. I lost my folks as a young woman. 30 years have passed, and I still wish I had them with me. My heart breaks for those who don't have parents or have shitty parents. I want to mother them all. 😢
Thanks for sharing. This episode is helping me to understand why my mother is still so wrapped up in the cult.
I’m sorry to hear that happened to your mother. She and her children deserved better. I hope life is mostly happy and not too heavy for you Ammon! 😢💔💔💔❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹 27:13
Its disgraceful that the police and CPS did not treat the children with kindness and truthfulness.
Just you telling the story of the time you took to write the book, it is close to your heart & personal.
Thank you for sharing your story.❤
I am going to get the book.
One of the most sad parts of the law enforcement showing up was they wanted to help the people and save the children unfortunately Warren had everyone so brainwashed and scared and LE didn’t have a full comprehension of the FLDS culture 😢💔
Excellent presentation. Very informative Thank you 👏
I am so happy this great young man has a close relationship with his sister Rachel she's beautiful inside and out