Dear reporters everywhere, Asking a child sexual abuse victim, "Why didn't you say something sooner??" Is hurtful, insensitive and insulting. It implies some culpability on the part of the victims that they SHOULD have said something sooner. Please stop doing it. Signed, A childhood sexual abuse victim.
Agreed. I think it is often asked without thinking of the implications, and might even be a well meaning attempt to educate the public about why victims don’t always come forward, but there are other questions or statements that could accomplish the same purpose.
And also, these are sheltered CHILDREN! At some point, they probably didn't know that this was unusual? Like children in general, not just cult kids, are constantly being taught to obey their parents, head of household, ect, and don't have many frames of reference for behavior besides their immediate family. It adds an extra step of having to REALIZE what is happening to them is wrong. All that on a child? Children shouldn't ever have to deal with that! I hate when people talk like the first victims could have spared later victims FUCK YOU THEIR ABUSER COULD HAVE SPARED THEM. All the fault lies with the abuser. I'm sorry about what you had to go through and I'm sorry journos like this are so insensitive
I was 15 when entered into a culty DV situation. It lasted 5 years and resulted in two babies and cops asked me why I hadn't left! Not even sooner, but "why didn't you leave?" Like I'm sitting here after being at the hospital all day doing rape kits etc and you're saying I didn't escape?! They found all sorts of restraints etc and different methods to "control" but somehow I hadn't left... It's been 16 years and I am still on meds for PTSD, the dumbest stuff triggers me and despite years of therapy they have said at this point it's unlikely to improve so I get disability. But ya know, I didn't nearly get murdered with two babies in my arms on a minus 40 night escaping that hell. Not one officer or even therapist ever said that I was right to leave how I did or when. Instead I was looked at like I was stupid for staying. I was called a liar despite images and all the physical evidence by the female prosecutor BC they were a godly family and his father was a prominent Minister... I was just a truckers daughter causing trouble. The only (professional) ones who believed me were cps and family court, and of course my drs... I was told later that the prosecution never even asked for the rape kit. I was tortured for 5 years and have spent an extra 16 being tormented, but he got 90 days time served so I guess we're even? SMH! It's no wonder the worse of the worse his behind their faith, it's like a get out of jail free card!
Makes me wonder how those girls feel. Growing up hearing their self-worth is in 1) taking care of your siblings every time your parents decide to have a new baby, 2) getting married 3) having their OWN babies and that’s it. The only time I’ve seen the girl’s encouraged to do anything *outside* the house is when they were training to be *MIDWIVES.*
I think something like this would be an absolutely horrible, unimaginable situation for pretty much any parent to be in. No one wants to believe their kid could do such a thing, especially to their own siblings, But, ultimately, adult up and do what your legal and moral duties demand.
The Duggars are part of the worst cult imaginable. they followed Bill Gothard that is in prison for child sexual abuse. It is really bad and TLC is sick to be allowing the family to get air time. If you go to websleuths you will find out what their beliefs are and it is horrifying. They blame the wife if a husband turns to porn and they equal child porn to adult porn. He probably will not get much time and he will likely re offend. The family is supporting him.
And who did it to Josh first when he was young? It is usually learned through trauma, and that it was forced on them gives them psychological justification to do it to others. Messy.
It was a fair point, for one incident. Curious teenagers trying to understand new emotions, it's understandable. But while Josh's actions may fairly have been dismissed as childhood curiosity at first, they escalated far beyond that. Enough that his parents sent him to a Christian camp for spiritual healing. What he really needed was to speak with someone trained in psychiatry, not prayer.
Just to add, Pumpkin, Alana’s older sister in Honey Boo Boo, and her husband are now the legal guardians of Alana. They have stepped up and have both had to work to heal Alana and their own daughter. She has been stability and love for Alana that she had needed after the trauma of her mothers drug usage. On top of this, Pumpkin also was working on her own trauma from losing June. But she kept strong for Alana and her daughter. Josh, her husband, has been the stern but loving father figure Alana has never had. He did everything to help them both heal. Pumpkin and Josh deserve so much love and respect for stepping up the way that they did! ❤️
Hate to burst your bubble but Josh ain't perfect either. Pumpkin was 16 and he was in his 20's when they first started dating. He basically groomed her. They divorced recently and Pumpkin has talked about it.
JD is not a typical paedo/offender. He is into hurt core and is more akin to a serial killer than a typical paedo-offender. He has not violently offended (murder) YET! May the Justice System do it's duty and protect the safety of society!
I was molested by my cousin in a closet when we were both 5, just because we were both 5 doesn’t make him any less of a molester of children. He also called me out of the blue when we were 16 and asked if I was a virgin. It has to do with psychopathy, narcissism and entitlement. Him and his brothers also killed animals for fun. And yes they all had DEEPLY STRICT fundamentalist parents and grandparents. I no longer speak to any of them for obvious reasons.
I wish the Duggars had let Josh get ACTUAL help when he was younger-this could have been avoided. As far as I'm concerned, this is also Jim Bob and Michelle's fault. They did this.
A frank conversation about the corrupt prison system + “I’m not going to put on foundation, because I’m beautiful just the way I am.” Is the exact energy I come here for
As a Christian, I'll never understand those that actively protect pedophiles. Forgiveness is not the same as actively putting your children in harm's way and enabling the offender to keep sinning. Forgiveness is NOT an excuse for what they are doing with Josh. At least the Willis family had some sense.
I agree 100%! If they truly believe in the Bible they know that God says that harming innocent children not tolerated and will be punished severely on Earth and on Judgment Day!
SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE MISOGYNISTS HIDING UNDER RELIGION IN THE BACK! it’s the weakest and most disgusting excuse to use God, or anything of the sort to justify endangering his CHILDREN? doesn’t make any sense and is actively a sign within itself. sum about the only thing worse than an evil person is the person who sees evil and doesn’t do shit abt it????
I needed a break after Michelle's comment about transgender people and how they're the REAL threat to little girls. I could literally feel my blood boiling as she spoke. Goddammit.
Given that her cisgender son was caught with a stash of child sexual assault images that the investigators described as "in the top five of the worst of the worst" of cases. Not a case exists that I am aware of where a trans woman preyed upon a person in a bathroom. Yeah, I'm with you on the boiling blood.
Anyone can be a predator there is no certain race gender age or sexual preference that's why parents need to always always always be paying attention .......mom of 2 here
I'm 68years old, only now do I realize how abusive my Father was, but he believed what the church told him. Can we say, Bill Gothards' doctrine was preached and things I've seen in the Pearls book To train up a child were just treatments in my life. He was constantly saying what will the neighbors think.
Fun fact: My parents were approached by TLC to be what became “John & Kate Plus Eight.” We’re a large blended Christian family & the was appealing to them (obvious given their track record). Fortunately my mom turned them down. I’m dealing with the abuse & trauma from my childhood & I can only imagine what even more of a hellscape it would have been if we were on tv.
Jacob Roloff's writing was beautifully eloquent and another warning for us all. How often do we have to be warned about the danger of childhood sexual abuse? Until we all become aware and there is a major social shift in how we deal with it.
Jacob is the only sensible person in his family and I feel for him. I fear for how many similar stories to his that we might hear in the next 10+ years
It kinda explains why the Duggar girls started being active on UA-cam after the raid, they must have known what was coming and that TLC might cancel them.
Josh was released and granted “unlimited contact” with his 6 kids. Jinger continues to be the only one I’ve ever liked. She was as open and raw as she could be when talking about what Josh did to her. Reports say she’s “disgusted” and has no intention of supporting him, she had no choice before.
when the narrator was saying the willis girls wished they had spoken up before their father got to their little sisters is heartbreaking. those poor kids i can’t believe all the protection predators get from supposedly legit people
I know right, I feel horrible for all of those children, for what the girls said and that the boys said they feel guilty and wish they knew. I hope these children are well and understand that what happened to them was none of their faults, but the fault of their horrible father.
In a few years, I hope the Reality TV trade ends up just as synonymous with child sexual abuse as the Roman Catholic aristocracy has been since January of '002.
If you’re talking abt Josh Duggar, it’s extremely likely he will be put away bc this is a federal investigation. The feds don’t get involved unless they have a very good case against someone. Hopefully he’ll get the full twenty years.
I wouldn't be too concerned. The federal government does not bring charges until they are VERY sure they can win. They have a 90%+ conviction rate and they've already shown a lot of very solid evidence. I'm sure they have more.
the fact the FBI said what he had was the worst of the worst makes this even sicker. I feel so bad for the investigators who had to see all of those images
It's a horrible job to do, but a few people are able to do it, with a lot of gallows humour and a good therapist. We don't give them nearly enough credit.
My brother-in-law had to do that job. They provided therapy to all of their employees. Unfortunately he took his own life last month. I have no idea what was going on in his head but I’m sure his career had a lot to do with it.
@@bootsandcats1501, I'm so sorry for your loss. You are probably right, that his job had a lot to do with it. It's not going to help you in your pain, but your brother-in-law was one of the real heroes in this world. There's no doubt that he's been essential to putting a lot of these people behind bars. It's not fair, that they have to suffer while helping others. I wish you and your family peace.
The Willis Clan broke my heart. I remember being excited about the show, and I actually only watched like two episodes because I felt creepy vibes off the dad. When it came out years later, I remember sobbing. It was so hard to think of those beautiful young girls going through that. I honestly think TLC needs to go off air. It's ridiculous the amount of abuse and sorrow that is being aired, and TLC is just like, dur, we didn't know. No more excuses.
@@shelleyharris4176 I don't know how their extrasensory perception (for lack of a better term) missed the evil in that traitor the audience called a father.
It's sad but not surprising that the parents brought the predator back into their home. Let's not forget for a moment the impact of that descion on the victims. There's also a shocking double standard with regard to behavior of men versus women and girls. The whole thing is just a mess.
@@jeanettemclaughlin4296 wait sorry what do you mean by tht? They let the father back in the home? I thought he was in prison ? :0 also im confused whether the mother is still supporting the dad bc I heard she was but not sure
@@user-ll1iz4wq6k I mean that Josh's parents brought him back to live with his sisters after no real treatment. By a double standard I mean that they fully expect his wife to stick it out, even though he is exhibiting a pattern of behavior that endangers his own kids. They have a daughter who they have practically disowned for behaving like a normal adult.
Our prison system is so disgusting...a large problem is that there should not be any for profit privite jails or prisons...and then its absolutely horrendous that rapiests and child molesters get lighter sentences in alot of cases then drug sentences....its all about the money!!!
everytime I see an interviewer ask any victim (not just children) why they didn't speak up sooner it makes my blood boil. DEAR ALL MEDIA: STOP ASKING THIS QUESTION. the amount of bravery and confidence it takes just to speak out in the first place is something most of us will never know. Starting off asking why it took so long is going to push that person back into silence and immediately discredits the victim. Maybe instead of asking "what took so long" maybe ask "what gave you the strength to speak out now?"
As someone with a cousin who was also a child, who could be excused as being "curious" fuck Jim Bob for that excuse. I still have problems that I've never dealt with because of shame, guilt and literally repressing my feelings. I was still abused, and the depth of that pain and the confusion you feel when it becomes a reality to you, it's so damaging when you make excuses for abusers. When Josh was a child, he should have gotten real help because "curiosity" is asking questions, not molesting people. I hope unseen survivors of his violence are receiving help and it hurts to see the well-known survivors are being told to prioritize the image of their brother/family over their mental health.
i feel the way Jen does. i think maybe we can fight the bad by showing goodness or willingness to help reform. but, some people are just insufferable and won’t respond to anything kind but rather take advantage. i’m still not sure how to deal w those people.
PLEASE cover jeremy and audrey roloff. they were married approximately five minutes and were already dispensing so much marriage advice and that shit just gets me
I’m in a very conservative area and most of my family members are Trumplicans. I’m only able to lower my sky high emotional walls while watching this channel.
Gonna second Jen's warning about not reading the details, I did on reddit which wasn't even the worst of it and I went to bed sobbing that night and haven't slept well since. I volunteer at shelters and see extreme abuse cases all the time so I thought I'd have a strong enough stomach. I didn't, I still feel sick.
Yes, same, didn't listen and have been having nightmares. It's not worth it to look, your mental health is more important. Sending good thoughts and wishing you comfort !
Thank you for the heads up. 💔 if it’s some of the worst that the FBI has ever seen...I think I’ll take yours and Jenn’s warning and not read the details.
@@hope-cat4894 I mean kinda.. eventually... after years of airing highly slanted propaganda making these people look harmless, quirky & wholesome. Seems like a gamble to rely on them getting caught every time.
@@petuniaandpoppy4615 Yeah I think they realized how their positive framing of the Duggars was a mistake because in the plaths they lambast the parents and show how the children can change for the better. Which is a cynical ploy by TLC to cover their ass and profit off how unpopular fundamentalism is.
@@hope-cat4894 nah it seems like they are helping these extremists by portraying them as just quirky families living their lives and oh why not just let people do and believe whatever it’s not hurting anyone? And average joe watching them has no clue the social and political power the Duggers and these cults have. They’re pushing for laws, running for office, donating money to harmful organizations. This is hidden behind wacky tv antics
Firstly, hearing Jim Bob and Michelle trying to justify Josh's actions and use them to justify their transphobia was disgusting on many levels. I'm so glad that Josh was sentenced to nearly 13 years in prison! 😡 Secondly, "Counting On" was finally cancelled over a month after this episode was originally released due to Josh's arrest. Lastly, I had never heard of The Willis Family/The Willis Clan until now. What happened to the girls was terrible. I'm so glad that Toby Willis was sentenced to 40 years in prison! 😡😡
I visited the Roloff's farm ages ago to pick pumpkins. My university was pretty close by so I went with my mom, who was visiting and liked their show. It was nice, we met Matt and saw the older boy driving their tractor around. I'm saddened to hear that bad things were happening to Jacob around that time. Reality TV is such a weird phenomenon.
I'd totally forgotten about the Willis family. How flippin sad for ALL these victims. May justice be served for all who are involved- predators and those who are complicit in the abuse of anyone.
Honestly this needs to be me way more often- I like the look of my foundationless face way more (I don’t wear makeup often), and I’ve never managed to get a foundation I think fits right. Gonna be my life’s motto from now on 💙
Hey I just wanted to say it makes me feel incredibly safe when you don’t go into graphic detail and still are able to get the point across. I really appreciate it when you tell us not to go and read the details about this kind of stuff. I just love that your channel feels so safe and homey and I appreciate you so much ❤️
Yeah, I just looked up what something meant regarding the case and began reading something graphic I had to click off of. I’d rather not feel like dying today.
@@Discrete1998 i agree I cant peraonaly listen to much intense stuff dealing with kids, i just do t want to know, brings shitty memories and isnt necissary to understand the overall case most of the time.
Never heard of the Willis family, but their ending was unexpectedly touching and sweet. It's rare to see that kind of wholesome family support in these circles, and also to get some closure with healing and art. 😥
@@animatedaboutlife Yeah, and let's not forget that the Rebers, the family friends of the Duggars are supposed to report anything Josh does to the authorities and not to Jim Bob or their church elders. They are also supposed to give up their guns when Josh stays with them. And their adult daughter has to give up giving piano lessons because of Josh at least temporarily.
@@LatchKeyKid_78 I don't blame her. I would be very pissed off at my husband if we had to take in someone that did the crap Josh did to his sisters. I can't even imagine what their daughter is feeling. I imagine she's very ticked off with her parents, especially her dad because she has to suspend kid piano lessons due to Josh being moved in. I do wonder if their daughter uses piano lessons as a way to make money, that's worse because they are cutting into her livelihood.
I distinctly remember that TLC was running a "19 Kids & Counting" marathon when the first news about Josh broke and they didn't stop it even though people were outraged😶
@@emc5678 For a few years, I wondered why so many of those reality TV shows were set in the southeastern US, and thought there was something to the poverty down there. Turns out that families in those impoverished states are easier for the networks to exploit, which throws more urgency into solving the systemic economic problems plaguing the 3rd US.
Jen, I freaking love you. I AM HoH, and literally, nobody I watch has talked about the community captions being taken away. Talk about feeling invisible. The video already had emotional, but that bit you said about the end tipped me over. Thank you for caring about captioning your videos. I do well with my hearing aids connecting to my phone, but I know SO many people who can't fully enjoy UA-cam videos without captions. You cover important topics all around, and the fact you care enough about us to make sure we can watch and learn is extremely touching.
$600 in lap dances is between 6 and 14 lap dances. THATS A LOT OF LAP DANCES The poor Willis siblings speaking about how they all hold regret for not coming forward sooner to save their younger siblings made me cry. None of that is their fault, and I hope that they find love and peace
I’ve been binge watching your videos and I’m thoroughly enjoying them. I have cousins that were raised amongst a fundamentalist ‘church’ and one of them was treated in a truly appalling way. More people need to be aware of this sort of shit and how easy it has been, historically, to get away with as long as you label your cult under the Christianity umbrella.
@@SexyTCAPdecoy4Hansen in spite of their many years of brainwashing they are both kind and wonderful kids who refuse to judge others for anything other than the content of their character and I am continually proud of them. They’ve always had me to back them up in the battle to become their own persons, with their own morals and beliefs outside of the church. I’ve told them many times I’d fist fight a bear for either of them if they ever need me to.
I remember when TLC had real medical shows about surgeries and the like. CME (Continuing Medical Education) is what they were called. And the Bravo channel showed ballet, operas, and fine arts programs.
Since "TLC" has lost its original meaning, what do those letters stand for now? _The Lost Children?_ _The Lechers Channel?_ _The Leering Channel?_ And there's no safe place on that network when even "Cake Boss" has a convicted sex offender in the production! *YIKES!*
I feel so deeply for Jacob. What a powerful statement. I hope he finds justice and is able to forgive himself and heal. (I say forgive himself because when something like this has happened, victims need to forgive themselves because a lot of self blame happens. He is the victim. He did nothing wrong.) It is so sad knowing how common it is to sexually abuse children. It is so sad and heartbreaking knowing that people around them have little idea of what is happening. All of my love to him.
Reality tv is disgusting. I hate to admit that I enjoy shows like My 600 lb Life, Hoarders, Unexpected, etc. I try not to watch them because so many of these people (especially 600 lb Life and Hoarders) are suffering from long-term affects of abuse and trauma and they trade the rights to their lives for free “help”... even though their stories are twisted, rewritten, misconstrued and aired for years to come. After I found myself watching these shows to build my own confidence and ego, I came to the conclusion that I really needed to stop encouraging the blatant exploitation of others.
Same! When I started to watch Hoarders for cleaning motivation I turned instead to UA-cam. Now I just watch cooking competitions and silly sitcoms on tv lol
Kudos for questioning yourself and making this realisation! We all need to consider why we're enjoying certain media and whether we're passively contributing to exploitation. A lot of people say "why do you have to be so serious it's just trash tv" but those are still real people, many of whom are vulnerable and genuinely suffering. Too many people dissociate themselves from the 'reality' of reality tv and toxic youtube channels but in the end this exploitation continues because so many people keep watching, and I feel like it must also have an affect on the audience at some level, to be getting their entertainment & stoking their ego from the pain of others.
Exactly! Of all the questions that lady could have asked, she had to ask that one?!? So infuriating. I hope the children do not feel that they are at fault for what happened to them.
The great part about this channel is that it calls out the issues of fundamentalism culture and toxic actions of individuals, not dissing the beliefs. Jen is actually helping me be comfortable believing in a diety again, as ironic as that might be, it reminded me the point of being a Christian is to being transparent, helpful and not being judgemental.
Jacob’s statement hurt my heart. He eloquently eviscerated the wholesome family image TLC loves to portray on their shows. It enables a culture of abuse and silence in favor of ratings and profits. I hope he is able to move on with his life and find some happiness. All of these stories are horrific. The Willis family in particular. Thankfully the father was locked up. I hope that they’re doing better too.
Now Mama June is addicted to meth and it’s so sad seeing her family go through that and TLC exploit that. I’m in recovery from addiction and seeing that is just so sad, watching her daughters go wanting to trust her, seeing her downfall. All displayed for the world to see. So upsetting.
As a non denominational Christian I enjoy your videos. Especially because you are able to report on this stuff without bashing Christianity in general. And I appreciate that.
My young cousin was on Are You The One for MTV. She passed away last year and I think it all started going downhill for her during the show. MTV would get her any liquor she asked just to make shit spicy.
Remember when TLC was The Learning Channel? It’s so sad that they took it from learning to a connotation of tender loving care that is exploitative content, voyeurism, and generally trash. Edit: UA-cam is the only social media to which I pay attention. After my daughter was born, I never felt comfortable sharing her on the internet. How could she ever give informed consent as an infant, or a child even, who has no idea the potential consequences? I get that most parents think their offspring is the greatest ever, and the desire to show off how great they are, but come on people.
Girl your comedic timing continues to amaze me. “It’s not like they’re going to end up destitute” and the following clip had me howling, a much needed moment of comic relief.
I’m studying criminal justice in college and I totally appreciate how careful you’re being with jokes and language and how you talk about this. I just finished my class on the corrections system here in the US and no matter what crime a person committed, you shouldn’t wish on them some of the things that happen in our system
Law student and abolitionist here. I recommend We Do This Till We Free Us by Mariame Kaba. Does a great job of discussing alternatives to our criminal justice system.
true, prison is torture. we shouldn't torture anyone, no matter how terrible the crime. bc ultimately torture doesn't help the victims. however in cases of CSA & SA, I realize a major objective is to keep the victims (& potential future victims) safe and protected. so the perpetrator needs major restrictions in some way. I think we need more restorative justice... and in the case of violent crime, I truly feel the perpetrator should spend the rest of their lives atoning to their victims, indirectly or directly, if & when the victim is ready. prison, as it is, doesn't allow that. but I'm hoping we can rebuild a system that does.
So she’s worried about a transgender individual using a bathroom and potentially abusing children (which has never happened from my research) but not concerned of their own son who is actively sexually abusing his own sisters? What goes through their heads?
"oh my gosh, i'm not the only one?" that broke my damn heart when she said that. when coming forward about sexual abuse, it's good to know that you are not alone in your struggle and you have people who understand, but the fact that she said that in response to learning that she was not the only one sexually abused by her father is absolutely disgusting. those poor kids.
So glad that I found you Jen! I used to talk fundie snark (which we didn't even call that) with my mother who raised in a large family that was devoutly catholic. She passed a few years ago and I have been looking for another outlet to fill the snarking void that my mom is gone. I am not super involved in your community (as I am the most social awkward human) but just know I look forward to your videos for my weekly fundie discourse. I have nothing to add about JD situation, because I feel everything has been said. My only hope is the children involved in the family and community get the help they need.
what I find most concerning is that the Duggars watch the information their kids are exposed to like hawks so the little sisters probably have no idea what is going on they might even think he is going to a retreat
Did Jim Bob just justify what Josh did by saying "he was a child, preying on a child"? Is he going to justify these new charges with "he was just an internet user"
i can’t stand how people always ask why keep quiet and ask so shocked about the abuse like it usually someone you know or in your family it makes abuse victims feel so unheard and unseen
You're awesome. Nailed the prison system, nailed the exploitation of children, who I seriously doubt wanted to engage in looking foolish, or embarrassed. Ahem...Go-Go juice. Your perspective is well thought out, I truly enjoy your commentary and content. Thank you!
I hate that I used to watch so many of these shows when I was younger. I used to watch 19 kids.., Little People, Big World, and John and Kate plus 8. Now that I'm a whole adult I just realize how exploitative it all was to all these kids. Lord only knows what happened on these sets that we don't even know about yet.
Yes I mean how much money can you pay someone to agree to being on the network Except for my feet are killing me etc all other shows are slimy disgusting garbage
my takeaway from most of this is that we should NOT allow children on reality shows. that's my step 1. there's a lot of other steps we need to protect kids, though.
@@ambriaashley3383 It's really crazy to me that children having cameras in their home and having their real lives broadcast on tv ever became the norm in the first place. 'Family channels' on youtube and 'mommy bloggers' who post photos and excessive details of their kids for profit also need to go. There are so many stories of abuse to come out of those situations, and even just the trauma of having your life exposed when you're too young to consent and having no real boundaries must be immense.
Jen, I appreciate your thoroughness in these videos! :) Having grown up in a fundamentalist community, (Church 3 times a week + school at the same place from 4k-12th grade) I was presented with topics like these, and learned about so many people you have covered on your channel. The conversations we had, however, were very different and we learned about them through a fundamentalist lens. We were taught to praise and respect so many of these toxic people "despite their wrongdoings" because they were "fighting for us". I always knew deep down how toxic this was, which filled me with so much anger. Once I was able to get away from that community, approaching topics/people like these was difficult for me because it always triggered those memories and feelings of resentment. For so many people, these topics are so shocking and sad, but for me and my friends, we lived it like it was a normal life until we were 18. Your channel has become a comfort zone to me. I can revisit these topics and receive such a thorough understanding, and finally have a safe space where these horrible actions are condemned and not brushed under the rug. As a progressive Christian now, I feel so respected through your understanding and kindness towards those of us who had to grow up in spaces like this. So, thank you for this channel, and all the hard work you put into each of your videos. I know for a fact that if I knew you in person, I would want you to be my friend!
The craziest thing is that his life behind bars will change drastically, while Anna’s life may just remain the same…as child rearing and daily household responsibilities fall on the wife in these groups anyway.
from "i want you to know that i AM trustworthy" to "sorry for saying the wrong thing last video to be fair i am very dumb" in less than a minute this is definitely a mood
As a Christian I genuinely feel like your content is very educational and helpful for how to treat others that have a different viewpoint and I love learning from you and how to love others more Thankyou
Shrek would never cover up a crime for his son. Shrek prolly beats up predators, and would bury them in his swamp. Now im getting out of control. Sorry
I am so sad for the Duggar kids. Jill deserves a bit more credit for the courage she had in speaking out when it first happened in 2002. I hope that justice is done because my abuser was never caught and the only evidence is my memory.
I grew up about a thirty minute drive from the Duggars. They used to come into the store where I worked and would stand on busy street corners holding signs when Jim Bob was trying to get back into politics. This is the first video I’ve ever watched of yours and I learned so much, despite being so close to them all this time. The general feeling surrounding them where I am from, is negative. I hope to god the show is cancelled.
Honestly the fact that the one Willis daughter sounded excited that her sister also went through the same thing and she wasn’t alone in her trauma broke my heart.
A) the blooper warmed my heart B) that Roloff statement slaps, what a well written gut punch C) I am so, so greatful to you for talking about mass incarceration, thank you for continuing to put all of these issues in perspective.
I can't imagine how legitamately evil this person & possible family members are to have karma be giving so much to Josh. It seems like so many monsters get away free or slaps on the wrists, so karma actually stepping up makes me think the duggars are extra evil. I'm scared to ever know what the kids in that family have gone through.
Believing in Karma or Heaven / Hell just breeds a sense of complacency that allows evil people to get away with being evil. The only possible justice will come from ordinary people banding together and demanding f better.
@@justinwatson1510 I guess I don't see karma the same way. Karma seems more like a mixture of luck & superstition to me. People have to do the things you said & not rely on anything but that. But hopefully by doing good (or bad) karma might come along & help out. And maybe once the balance of shit & not shit tips more toward not shit, it'll be easier to not hope for luck & superstition, and believe in humans instead more often.
Let’s try to take karma into our own hands and join organizations of like-minded people who want to make the world better. We have strength in numbers, and I think there are more people like us than there are people like them.
The idea of karma in the way you describe seems to me like it’s a worldview that leads to people in bad circumstances being blamed for their own misfortunes. Just because someone is in a bad situation in life doesn’t mean they or their family did something in their past to deserve it, that comes off as victim blaming. Of course I’m glad Josh is getting prosecuted for his crimes, but that’s due to his own specific actions being detected and prosecuted by investigators. I’m not trying to disrespect your beliefs but I see a lot of people saying stuff like this and it seems like a lot of times they haven’t thought through the implications of what they’re saying. What caught Josh isn’t karma catching up with him, it was federal agents doing their jobs and finding out what he did, building a case, arresting him, etc. it worries me that conceptions of karma like you described could lead to people being complacent with evildoers eventually getting their karmic retribution, ignoring that it takes actual human efforts to ensure those evil deeds are detected, investigated, and charged in court.
@@minimoomin I whole heartedly agree with what you said about ppl being behind why Josh is getting prosecuted. A lot of time, hard work & I'd have to imagine mental/emotional damage to the ppl who did it went into getting him arrested. And I thought A a lot about what you said about how I explained karma & I have to disagree. Maybe because I know what I'm thinking that I'm not explaining it well, but I don't think how I said it conveys that. If it does though, that's not what I mean.
It's almost a week since I discovered GEM your channel is. Duggars video popped up in my recommendations and since I heard about the arrest, I was curious to get to know more. And I binged almost all your videos since then. Huge respect for basically everything about you & your content. And respect for staying respectful towards ppl you talk about and staying true to yourself at the same time. Really like your personality and the way you treat every topic, being often deemed as difficult or sensitive. And I LOVE your editing and sense of snark/humor :) EDIT - yet another very important video of yours. You use being passionate about the fundamentalism topic at large to actually amplify important issues happening plus always giving out large context with your own commentary, so folks watching can make up their own minds (plus use sources you link in the description). I wish there were more such channels and people approaching subjects with open mind and desire of knowledge. Special shoutout to *ALLEGEDLY* which never fails to crack me up!
Dear reporters everywhere,
Asking a child sexual abuse victim, "Why didn't you say something sooner??" Is hurtful, insensitive and insulting. It implies some culpability on the part of the victims that they SHOULD have said something sooner. Please stop doing it.
Signed,
A childhood sexual abuse victim.
Agreed. I think it is often asked without thinking of the implications, and might even be a well meaning attempt to educate the public about why victims don’t always come forward, but there are other questions or statements that could accomplish the same purpose.
I'm sorry about what happened to you as a child.
Yes! This question is the worst!
And also, these are sheltered CHILDREN! At some point, they probably didn't know that this was unusual? Like children in general, not just cult kids, are constantly being taught to obey their parents, head of household, ect, and don't have many frames of reference for behavior besides their immediate family. It adds an extra step of having to REALIZE what is happening to them is wrong.
All that on a child? Children shouldn't ever have to deal with that! I hate when people talk like the first victims could have spared later victims FUCK YOU THEIR ABUSER COULD HAVE SPARED THEM. All the fault lies with the abuser.
I'm sorry about what you had to go through and I'm sorry journos like this are so insensitive
I was 15 when entered into a culty DV situation. It lasted 5 years and resulted in two babies and cops asked me why I hadn't left! Not even sooner, but "why didn't you leave?" Like I'm sitting here after being at the hospital all day doing rape kits etc and you're saying I didn't escape?! They found all sorts of restraints etc and different methods to "control" but somehow I hadn't left... It's been 16 years and I am still on meds for PTSD, the dumbest stuff triggers me and despite years of therapy they have said at this point it's unlikely to improve so I get disability. But ya know, I didn't nearly get murdered with two babies in my arms on a minus 40 night escaping that hell. Not one officer or even therapist ever said that I was right to leave how I did or when. Instead I was looked at like I was stupid for staying. I was called a liar despite images and all the physical evidence by the female prosecutor BC they were a godly family and his father was a prominent Minister... I was just a truckers daughter causing trouble. The only (professional) ones who believed me were cps and family court, and of course my drs... I was told later that the prosecution never even asked for the rape kit. I was tortured for 5 years and have spent an extra 16 being tormented, but he got 90 days time served so I guess we're even? SMH! It's no wonder the worse of the worse his behind their faith, it's like a get out of jail free card!
"to be fair I am very dumb" is my new excuse for everything
"why did you throw a bottle of p1ss at these cops"
"to be fair i am very dumb"
I say this to my boss all the time so... 😂
Aye it’s a wild Tara, love your content 💓✨
Girl istg we are the same person. We follow all the same people. Love you both!!
💕💕💕
It's always so disgusting how they go to such lengths to defend him meanwhile their young daughters just don't matter somehow.
Makes me wonder how those girls feel. Growing up hearing their self-worth is in 1) taking care of your siblings every time your parents decide to have a new baby, 2) getting married 3) having their OWN babies and that’s it.
The only time I’ve seen the girl’s encouraged to do anything *outside* the house is when they were training to be *MIDWIVES.*
Can't be any other way when it's a cult based on male supremacy.
I think something like this would be an absolutely horrible, unimaginable situation for pretty much any parent to be in. No one wants to believe their kid could do such a thing, especially to their own siblings, But, ultimately, adult up and do what your legal and moral duties demand.
Probably because they’re girls. Unfortunately...
The Duggars are part of the worst cult imaginable. they followed Bill Gothard that is in prison for child sexual abuse. It is really bad and TLC is sick to be allowing the family to get air time. If you go to websleuths you will find out what their beliefs are and it is horrifying. They blame the wife if a husband turns to porn and they equal child porn to adult porn. He probably will not get much time and he will likely re offend. The family is supporting him.
"He was a child preying on a child" like Jim bob you’re not helping yourself with that at all
"it's ok when they're straight cis and josh!"
"you are just the worst"
Yep exactly. It's amazing how his bigotry blinds him to the absolute bullshittery of his own words.
And who did it to Josh first when he was young? It is usually learned through trauma, and that it was forced on them gives them psychological justification to do it to others. Messy.
That statement hasn’t aged well with these new allegations. He’s not a child now!
It was a fair point, for one incident. Curious teenagers trying to understand new emotions, it's understandable. But while Josh's actions may fairly have been dismissed as childhood curiosity at first, they escalated far beyond that. Enough that his parents sent him to a Christian camp for spiritual healing. What he really needed was to speak with someone trained in psychiatry, not prayer.
Just to add, Pumpkin, Alana’s older sister in Honey Boo Boo, and her husband are now the legal guardians of Alana. They have stepped up and have both had to work to heal Alana and their own daughter. She has been stability and love for Alana that she had needed after the trauma of her mothers drug usage. On top of this, Pumpkin also was working on her own trauma from losing June. But she kept strong for Alana and her daughter. Josh, her husband, has been the stern but loving father figure Alana has never had. He did everything to help them both heal. Pumpkin and Josh deserve so much love and respect for stepping up the way that they did! ❤️
Hate to burst your bubble but Josh ain't perfect either. Pumpkin was 16 and he was in his 20's when they first started dating. He basically groomed her. They divorced recently and Pumpkin has talked about it.
"A pedophile is an adult preying on a child."
Well, Josh is now 33, so...
He preys, not prays.
@@alicewolfson4423 yup
Jim Bob needed to be arrested for making that remark.
JD is not a typical paedo/offender. He is into hurt core and is more akin to a serial killer than a typical paedo-offender. He has not violently offended (murder) YET! May the Justice System do it's duty and protect the safety of society!
josh is a freak eeeeuuuuuw
...you know it’s BAD bad when the FBI says the cp josh had is some of the worst they’ve ever seen
If that's the case, why did he just get bail?
@@mariakelly1059 He’s white, rich and a republican duh!
@@mariakelly1059 They convinced the judge because he is famous he is not a flight risk. 🙄
@@carrieeccleston3941 🤦🏻♀️ are we taking bets on if he tries to flee the country or not?
@@carrieeccleston3941 That's probably very right.
It makes me sick every time Jim Bob tries to minimise the abuse of his own daughters
The women have no voice. Seen but not heard type of situation
@@LatchKeyKid_78 but his wife never shuts up. It’s just their daughters that have to stay silent. Jill loves power.
Me, too. It only makes it clearer that their denomination just doesn't care about women.
Sorry there are so many names, which one is Jim Bob?
@@Alex-cm9dd he’s the Duggar dad
"An adult that preys on children.. Joshua was just a child preying on other children."
10 years later...
🎯🎯🎯
I was molested by my cousin in a closet when we were both 5, just because we were both 5 doesn’t make him any less of a molester of children. He also called me out of the blue when we were 16 and asked if I was a virgin. It has to do with psychopathy, narcissism and entitlement. Him and his brothers also killed animals for fun. And yes they all had DEEPLY STRICT fundamentalist parents and grandparents. I no longer speak to any of them for obvious reasons.
yes. THIS.
I suppose the 2 British kids (4th grade?) who murdered a toddler were not murderers, they were just children murdering a child? WTH
That case was so messed up 🥲 learning about haunts me to this day lol
I wish the Duggars had let Josh get ACTUAL help when he was younger-this could have been avoided. As far as I'm concerned, this is also Jim Bob and Michelle's fault. They did this.
I agree but as an adult with 7 kids he needs to take responsibility now
agreed they shouldn't have enabled him that taught him "this is ok you can get away with it"
Duh
@@greyjedi7005 yup
@@ddjsoyenby yup
The tea in the first few mins about the prison system. Girl yes.
The reality is in most states sex offenders get their own yard for their protection.
SERIOUSLY WHY ARE PEDOPHILES GIVEN PROTECTIVE CUSTODY WTF LET THEM BE EATEN BY LIONS
I was literally coming to the comments just to "YESSSS" about the prison industrial complex comments.
Yassss girl preach it! I’ve spent more time in jail for my addiction to drugs that Josh has for his addiction to kidddie s m u t
@@jasmineluyster5085 That's so stupid. I'm sorry the country's failed you so damn hard.
A frank conversation about the corrupt prison system + “I’m not going to put on foundation, because I’m beautiful just the way I am.” Is the exact energy I come here for
Not to derail this very important conversation about abuse and abusers but she better drop her skin care routine
@@milliehayes This is what I’m saying 🙌🏻
I actually thought she had on foundation when the video started!
@@baileymoran8585 Right? Her skin is incredibly and glowy!
@@baileymoran8585 same!
As a Christian, I'll never understand those that actively protect pedophiles. Forgiveness is not the same as actively putting your children in harm's way and enabling the offender to keep sinning. Forgiveness is NOT an excuse for what they are doing with Josh.
At least the Willis family had some sense.
I agree 100%! If they truly believe in the Bible they know that God says that harming innocent children not tolerated and will be punished severely on Earth and on Judgment Day!
Right?! They could also forgive him and still keep him far away from all the kids in the family.
SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE MISOGYNISTS HIDING UNDER RELIGION IN THE BACK! it’s the weakest and most disgusting excuse to use God, or anything of the sort to justify endangering his CHILDREN? doesn’t make any sense and is actively a sign within itself. sum about the only thing worse than an evil person is the person who sees evil and doesn’t do shit abt it????
sinnnn**** ITS A SIN WITHIN ITSELF 😂 rant typos
@@carmen8958 LOL We knew what you meant sweetheart!!!
I needed a break after Michelle's comment about transgender people and how they're the REAL threat to little girls. I could literally feel my blood boiling as she spoke. Goddammit.
yeah that is always really difficult. fuck transphobes to hell.
says the mother of a straight male who is a danger to children she has no room to talk
Given that her cisgender son was caught with a stash of child sexual assault images that the investigators described as "in the top five of the worst of the worst" of cases. Not a case exists that I am aware of where a trans woman preyed upon a person in a bathroom. Yeah, I'm with you on the boiling blood.
Yeah because Michelle's comment makes pissed off, this is why I hate Transphobic people
Anyone can be a predator there is no certain race gender age or sexual preference that's why parents need to always always always be paying attention .......mom of 2 here
I'm 68years old, only now do I realize how abusive my Father was, but he believed what the church told him. Can we say, Bill Gothards' doctrine was preached and things I've seen in the Pearls book To train up a child were just treatments in my life. He was constantly saying what will the neighbors think.
Fun fact: My parents were approached by TLC to be what became “John & Kate Plus Eight.” We’re a large blended Christian family & the was appealing to them (obvious given their track record). Fortunately my mom turned them down. I’m dealing with the abuse & trauma from my childhood & I can only imagine what even more of a hellscape it would have been if we were on tv.
It's fantastic that you are dealing with it. Be proud of yourself. 💎
I hope you get the help you need to move on from your trauma ❤️
I hope you can recover
Her shame for abusing you saved you from these very comments. Her selfishness and denial saved you.
Jacob Roloff's writing was beautifully eloquent and another warning for us all. How often do we have to be warned about the danger of childhood sexual abuse? Until we all become aware and there is a major social shift in how we deal with it.
Apparently until parents care more about their kids than money and fame.
Jacob is the only sensible person in his family and I feel for him. I fear for how many similar stories to his that we might hear in the next 10+ years
sarasdramaticlife apparently he’s reconciled with his mom at the very least.
Agree. I really like Jacobs IG... he seems enlightened and intelligent in comparison to his brickheaded father and lalaland mother.
It explains a lot why he left the show years ago
It kinda explains why the Duggar girls started being active on UA-cam after the raid, they must have known what was coming and that TLC might cancel them.
Josh was released and granted “unlimited contact” with his 6 kids. Jinger continues to be the only one I’ve ever liked. She was as open and raw as she could be when talking about what Josh did to her. Reports say she’s “disgusted” and has no intention of supporting him, she had no choice before.
Ginger is the main one i like. The bates seems to be more real all the way around.
@@karentucker2161 they do, but the parents are still part of that church.
Honestly, the Willis siblings having each other's backs is so damn wholesome.
when the narrator was saying the willis girls wished they had spoken up before their father got to their little sisters is heartbreaking. those poor kids i can’t believe all the protection predators get from supposedly legit people
I know right, I feel horrible for all of those children, for what the girls said and that the boys said they feel guilty and wish they knew. I hope these children are well and understand that what happened to them was none of their faults, but the fault of their horrible father.
In a few years, I hope the Reality TV trade ends up just as synonymous with child sexual abuse as the Roman Catholic aristocracy has been since January of '002.
I’m so concerned that he will just get a slap on the wrist or have no consequences at all.
If you’re talking abt Josh Duggar, it’s extremely likely he will be put away bc this is a federal investigation. The feds don’t get involved unless they have a very good case against someone. Hopefully he’ll get the full twenty years.
I wouldn't be too concerned. The federal government does not bring charges until they are VERY sure they can win. They have a 90%+ conviction rate and they've already shown a lot of very solid evidence. I'm sure they have more.
Minimum 25 years on the 2 counts . If he breaks any of the stipulations judge said she will add 10 years to it
I’m afraid he will do something to himself and escape justice now that he’s free.
This was one of the reasons I wanted to be white collar crime aside from...y'know. He'd definitely be going to prison.
“A child preying on a child” has been stuck in my mind since I first saw that interview... JB certainly can’t make that argument anymore.
like...he does realize that's worse right....
the fact the FBI said what he had was the worst of the worst makes this even sicker. I feel so bad for the investigators who had to see all of those images
What a soul crushing job that must be. I hope those people get lots of free therapy. But I doubt it.
@@tiffanielafleur6597 Most agencies do provide therapy and rooms to help calm down I believe, I want to be a CSI so I’m gonna need some too 😭
It's a horrible job to do, but a few people are able to do it, with a lot of gallows humour and a good therapist. We don't give them nearly enough credit.
My brother-in-law had to do that job. They provided therapy to all of their employees. Unfortunately he took his own life last month. I have no idea what was going on in his head but I’m sure his career had a lot to do with it.
@@bootsandcats1501, I'm so sorry for your loss. You are probably right, that his job had a lot to do with it.
It's not going to help you in your pain, but your brother-in-law was one of the real heroes in this world. There's no doubt that he's been essential to putting a lot of these people behind bars.
It's not fair, that they have to suffer while helping others.
I wish you and your family peace.
The Willis Clan broke my heart. I remember being excited about the show, and I actually only watched like two episodes because I felt creepy vibes off the dad. When it came out years later, I remember sobbing. It was so hard to think of those beautiful young girls going through that. I honestly think TLC needs to go off air. It's ridiculous the amount of abuse and sorrow that is being aired, and TLC is just like, dur, we didn't know. No more excuses.
How can the people filming not get weird vibes of of these people
@@shelleyharris4176 I don't know how their extrasensory perception (for lack of a better term) missed the evil in that traitor the audience called a father.
your content always makes me feel safe and like I'm hanging with a friend !!! Ily !!
Same. Feels like a friend who you can share openly with without being judged but also will hold you accountable.
I second this!! One of my fav channels
agree!
Hahahahaha was about to say just this and it was the first comment.
Same!!! I love your channel and enjoy your incredibly intelligent content and feel safe listening to you speak. ❤️
20:54 that’s so sad that they’re blaming themselves when their father shouldn’t have been abusing them. I really hope they’re doing better
It's sad but not surprising that the parents brought the predator back into their home. Let's not forget for a moment the impact of that descion on the victims. There's also a shocking double standard with regard to behavior of men versus women and girls. The whole thing is just a mess.
@@jeanettemclaughlin4296 wait sorry what do you mean by tht? They let the father back in the home? I thought he was in prison ? :0 also im confused whether the mother is still supporting the dad bc I heard she was but not sure
@@user-ll1iz4wq6k I mean that Josh's parents brought him back to live with his sisters after no real treatment. By a double standard I mean that they fully expect his wife to stick it out, even though he is exhibiting a pattern of behavior that endangers his own kids. They have a daughter who they have practically disowned for behaving like a normal adult.
@@jeanettemclaughlin4296 ohh ok yes I understand and true
Our prison system is so disgusting...a large problem is that there should not be any for profit privite jails or prisons...and then its absolutely horrendous that rapiests and child molesters get lighter sentences in alot of cases then drug sentences....its all about the money!!!
I agree America is in desperate need of prison reform.
Private prisons should definitely be abolished. I’d like to recommend Bailey Sarian’s Dark History about private prisons. It is very well researched.
everytime I see an interviewer ask any victim (not just children) why they didn't speak up sooner it makes my blood boil. DEAR ALL MEDIA: STOP ASKING THIS QUESTION. the amount of bravery and confidence it takes just to speak out in the first place is something most of us will never know. Starting off asking why it took so long is going to push that person back into silence and immediately discredits the victim. Maybe instead of asking "what took so long" maybe ask "what gave you the strength to speak out now?"
As someone with a cousin who was also a child, who could be excused as being "curious" fuck Jim Bob for that excuse. I still have problems that I've never dealt with because of shame, guilt and literally repressing my feelings. I was still abused, and the depth of that pain and the confusion you feel when it becomes a reality to you, it's so damaging when you make excuses for abusers. When Josh was a child, he should have gotten real help because "curiosity" is asking questions, not molesting people. I hope unseen survivors of his violence are receiving help and it hurts to see the well-known survivors are being told to prioritize the image of their brother/family over their mental health.
You said you don't wish violence on anyone. I find that very admirable as that is something I haven't achieved yet.
Violence has its place, doesn't it?
@@sg-cg6lr when we're talking about innocent victims, hell yeah
i feel the way Jen does. i think maybe we can fight the bad by showing goodness or willingness to help reform. but, some people are just insufferable and won’t respond to anything kind but rather take advantage. i’m still not sure how to deal w those people.
PLEASE cover jeremy and audrey roloff. they were married approximately five minutes and were already dispensing so much marriage advice and that shit just gets me
Yes! This!!
Wait yes I 100% agree on this
This!!!
Yes! 🤦
YES!
"it's not worth holding up the prison industrial system to take a few pointed jabs atJosh Duggar" you earned a subscriber this is so true
same reaction. Immediately liked and subscribed.
I’m in a very conservative area and most of my family members are Trumplicans. I’m only able to lower my sky high emotional walls while watching this channel.
Gonna second Jen's warning about not reading the details, I did on reddit which wasn't even the worst of it and I went to bed sobbing that night and haven't slept well since. I volunteer at shelters and see extreme abuse cases all the time so I thought I'd have a strong enough stomach. I didn't, I still feel sick.
:( sending you a virtual hug
Lots of love and positivity your way 💕 may you return to a peaceful slumber soon.
im so so sorry you went through this, sending virtual hugs!! 🤍
Yes, same, didn't listen and have been having nightmares. It's not worth it to look, your mental health is more important. Sending good thoughts and wishing you comfort !
Thank you for the heads up. 💔 if it’s some of the worst that the FBI has ever seen...I think I’ll take yours and Jenn’s warning and not read the details.
It seems like the moment there’s a scandal like this, they just find a new fundie family to film. TLC has such an odd obsession with fundies.
At least they're exposing the depths of crazy running around in this country even if unintentionally.
@@hope-cat4894 I mean kinda.. eventually... after years of airing highly slanted propaganda making these people look harmless, quirky & wholesome. Seems like a gamble to rely on them getting caught every time.
@@petuniaandpoppy4615 Yeah I think they realized how their positive framing of the Duggars was a mistake because in the plaths they lambast the parents and show how the children can change for the better. Which is a cynical ploy by TLC to cover their ass and profit off how unpopular fundamentalism is.
@@hope-cat4894 nah it seems like they are helping these extremists by portraying them as just quirky families living their lives and oh why not just let people do and believe whatever it’s not hurting anyone? And average joe watching them has no clue the social and political power the Duggers and these cults have. They’re pushing for laws, running for office, donating money to harmful organizations. This is hidden behind wacky tv antics
the survivor's guilt coming from the poor Willis kids is breaking my heart
Firstly, hearing Jim Bob and Michelle trying to justify Josh's actions and use them to justify their transphobia was disgusting on many levels. I'm so glad that Josh was sentenced to nearly 13 years in prison! 😡
Secondly, "Counting On" was finally cancelled over a month after this episode was originally released due to Josh's arrest.
Lastly, I had never heard of The Willis Family/The Willis Clan until now. What happened to the girls was terrible. I'm so glad that Toby Willis was sentenced to 40 years in prison! 😡😡
I visited the Roloff's farm ages ago to pick pumpkins. My university was pretty close by so I went with my mom, who was visiting and liked their show. It was nice, we met Matt and saw the older boy driving their tractor around. I'm saddened to hear that bad things were happening to Jacob around that time. Reality TV is such a weird phenomenon.
I know right and it makes sense now why he left the show and farm and same with Molly.
I'd totally forgotten about the Willis family. How flippin sad for ALL these victims. May justice be served for all who are involved- predators and those who are complicit in the abuse of anyone.
The parents are evil, the defense is so omfg infuriating
Absolutely! They both make my skin crawl
I think skipping the foundation was a good choice. Your skin looks fantastic. Even if it didn’t, NO ONE SHOULD FEEL THE NEED TO WEAR FOUNDATION
Honestly this needs to be me way more often- I like the look of my foundationless face way more (I don’t wear makeup often), and I’ve never managed to get a foundation I think fits right. Gonna be my life’s motto from now on 💙
Hey I just wanted to say it makes me feel incredibly safe when you don’t go into graphic detail and still are able to get the point across. I really appreciate it when you tell us not to go and read the details about this kind of stuff. I just love that your channel feels so safe and homey and I appreciate you so much ❤️
Yeah, I just looked up what something meant regarding the case and began reading something graphic I had to click off of. I’d rather not feel like dying today.
@@Discrete1998 i agree I cant peraonaly listen to much intense stuff dealing with kids, i just do t want to know, brings shitty memories and isnt necissary to understand the overall case most of the time.
Never heard of the Willis family, but their ending was unexpectedly touching and sweet. It's rare to see that kind of wholesome family support in these circles, and also to get some closure with healing and art. 😥
“to be fair i am very dumb” i’ve never related to anything you’ve said more
I’m shocked josh is allowed to see his kids under supervision of Anna
Me too! If his kids are in danger around him, then Anna is his accomplice whatever could be going on in the home.
It should at least be in a center that does supervised visitation... or not at all.
@@animatedaboutlife Yeah, and let's not forget that the Rebers, the family friends of the Duggars are supposed to report anything Josh does to the authorities and not to Jim Bob or their church elders. They are also supposed to give up their guns when Josh stays with them. And their adult daughter has to give up giving piano lessons because of Josh at least temporarily.
@@Neku628 I hear the wife was not on board with Trashua moving into her home
@@LatchKeyKid_78 I don't blame her. I would be very pissed off at my husband if we had to take in someone that did the crap Josh did to his sisters. I can't even imagine what their daughter is feeling. I imagine she's very ticked off with her parents, especially her dad because she has to suspend kid piano lessons due to Josh being moved in.
I do wonder if their daughter uses piano lessons as a way to make money, that's worse because they are cutting into her livelihood.
I distinctly remember that TLC was running a "19 Kids & Counting" marathon when the first news about Josh broke and they didn't stop it even though people were outraged😶
@@emc5678 For a few years, I wondered why so many of those reality TV shows were set in the southeastern US, and thought there was something to the poverty down there. Turns out that families in those impoverished states are easier for the networks to exploit, which throws more urgency into solving the systemic economic problems plaguing the 3rd US.
I remember this as well!!
Jen, I freaking love you. I AM HoH, and literally, nobody I watch has talked about the community captions being taken away. Talk about feeling invisible. The video already had emotional, but that bit you said about the end tipped me over. Thank you for caring about captioning your videos. I do well with my hearing aids connecting to my phone, but I know SO many people who can't fully enjoy UA-cam videos without captions. You cover important topics all around, and the fact you care enough about us to make sure we can watch and learn is extremely touching.
thiss!!! i am deaf on one ear and i appreciate jen so much. (sorry i’m so late lol)
$600 in lap dances is between 6 and 14 lap dances. THATS A LOT OF LAP DANCES
The poor Willis siblings speaking about how they all hold regret for not coming forward sooner to save their younger siblings made me cry. None of that is their fault, and I hope that they find love and peace
I’ve been binge watching your videos and I’m thoroughly enjoying them. I have cousins that were raised amongst a fundamentalist ‘church’ and one of them was treated in a truly appalling way. More people need to be aware of this sort of shit and how easy it has been, historically, to get away with as long as you label your cult under the Christianity umbrella.
💔 sending love your way for them babies.
@@SexyTCAPdecoy4Hansen in spite of their many years of brainwashing they are both kind and wonderful kids who refuse to judge others for anything other than the content of their character and I am continually proud of them. They’ve always had me to back them up in the battle to become their own persons, with their own morals and beliefs outside of the church. I’ve told them many times I’d fist fight a bear for either of them if they ever need me to.
Remember when TLC was The Learning Channel and had fashion makeover shows?
Now I am Learning they sold their souls.
I remember when TLC had real medical shows about surgeries and the like. CME (Continuing Medical Education) is what they were called.
And the Bravo channel showed ballet, operas, and fine arts programs.
@@jujubee463
And Travel Channel was about travel, not ghost sightings.
@@deetee8100 yup
Learn how man nasty slimy disgusting people are on this network tlc
Since "TLC" has lost its original meaning, what do those letters stand for now?
_The Lost Children?_
_The Lechers Channel?_
_The Leering Channel?_
And there's no safe place on that network when even "Cake Boss" has a convicted sex offender in the production!
*YIKES!*
Jacob writes/speaks so eloquently.
I feel so deeply for Jacob. What a powerful statement. I hope he finds justice and is able to forgive himself and heal. (I say forgive himself because when something like this has happened, victims need to forgive themselves because a lot of self blame happens. He is the victim. He did nothing wrong.)
It is so sad knowing how common it is to sexually abuse children. It is so sad and heartbreaking knowing that people around them have little idea of what is happening.
All of my love to him.
I feel awful for the brothers who had guilt that they didn't know what their dad was doing. It's not their fault but sometimes it's hard to hear that
They are way better than the Duggar boys. They hate that man.
Reality tv is disgusting. I hate to admit that I enjoy shows like My 600 lb Life, Hoarders, Unexpected, etc. I try not to watch them because so many of these people (especially 600 lb Life and Hoarders) are suffering from long-term affects of abuse and trauma and they trade the rights to their lives for free “help”... even though their stories are twisted, rewritten, misconstrued and aired for years to come. After I found myself watching these shows to build my own confidence and ego, I came to the conclusion that I really needed to stop encouraging the blatant exploitation of others.
Same! When I started to watch Hoarders for cleaning motivation I turned instead to UA-cam. Now I just watch cooking competitions and silly sitcoms on tv lol
Kudos for questioning yourself and making this realisation! We all need to consider why we're enjoying certain media and whether we're passively contributing to exploitation. A lot of people say "why do you have to be so serious it's just trash tv" but those are still real people, many of whom are vulnerable and genuinely suffering. Too many people dissociate themselves from the 'reality' of reality tv and toxic youtube channels but in the end this exploitation continues because so many people keep watching, and I feel like it must also have an affect on the audience at some level, to be getting their entertainment & stoking their ego from the pain of others.
I was not aware of the Roloff’s situation. TLC always creeped me out, but now they fully disgust me.
I wish people would stop asking children why they didn’t speak up sooner. Really? About abuse from their parents?!
Exactly! Of all the questions that lady could have asked, she had to ask that one?!? So infuriating. I hope the children do not feel that they are at fault for what happened to them.
The great part about this channel is that it calls out the issues of fundamentalism culture and toxic actions of individuals, not dissing the beliefs. Jen is actually helping me be comfortable believing in a diety again, as ironic as that might be, it reminded me the point of being a Christian is to being transparent, helpful and not being judgemental.
Jacob’s statement hurt my heart. He eloquently eviscerated the wholesome family image TLC loves to portray on their shows. It enables a culture of abuse and silence in favor of ratings and profits. I hope he is able to move on with his life and find some happiness.
All of these stories are horrific. The Willis family in particular. Thankfully the father was locked up. I hope that they’re doing better too.
Now Mama June is addicted to meth and it’s so sad seeing her family go through that and TLC exploit that. I’m in recovery from addiction and seeing that is just so sad, watching her daughters go wanting to trust her, seeing her downfall. All displayed for the world to see. So upsetting.
The song Vicarious by Tool comes to mind.
TLC isn’t making her show. I believe WE is the network.
She went to rehab...
She also said she was spending 1500 a day on meth... idk how true that is..
Forreal, whenever I come across clips of it I'm disgusted. None of this should be on TV and it's just pure straight up exploitation.
As a non denominational Christian I enjoy your videos. Especially because you are able to report on this stuff without bashing Christianity in general. And I appreciate that.
My young cousin was on Are You The One for MTV. She passed away last year and I think it all started going downhill for her during the show. MTV would get her any liquor she asked just to make shit spicy.
Corporations only care about profits. We need to end capitalism.
My friend was on that show and was miserable
Alexis eddy?
Sorry
@@Twentypluto it actually doesn’t. Lmao Sheila is her fathers niece. I’m on the other side of the family, thank god. 🤣
Remember when TLC was The Learning Channel? It’s so sad that they took it from learning to a connotation of tender loving care that is exploitative content, voyeurism, and generally trash.
Edit: UA-cam is the only social media to which I pay attention. After my daughter was born, I never felt comfortable sharing her on the internet. How could she ever give informed consent as an infant, or a child even, who has no idea the potential consequences? I get that most parents think their offspring is the greatest ever, and the desire to show off how great they are, but come on people.
Girl your comedic timing continues to amaze me. “It’s not like they’re going to end up destitute” and the following clip had me howling, a much needed moment of comic relief.
Thank you for issuing an apology re: Taurus slander. It may take some time, but it was a necessary step to rebuild trust.
“To be fair, I’m very dumb” is my new go-to defense for anything I say incorrectly 😂
I’m studying criminal justice in college and I totally appreciate how careful you’re being with jokes and language and how you talk about this. I just finished my class on the corrections system here in the US and no matter what crime a person committed, you shouldn’t wish on them some of the things that happen in our system
I also went to college for criminal justice. Good for you.
Law student and abolitionist here. I recommend We Do This Till We Free Us by Mariame Kaba. Does a great job of discussing alternatives to our criminal justice system.
true, prison is torture. we shouldn't torture anyone, no matter how terrible the crime. bc ultimately torture doesn't help the victims. however in cases of CSA & SA, I realize a major objective is to keep the victims (& potential future victims) safe and protected. so the perpetrator needs major restrictions in some way.
I think we need more restorative justice... and in the case of violent crime, I truly feel the perpetrator should spend the rest of their lives atoning to their victims, indirectly or directly, if & when the victim is ready. prison, as it is, doesn't allow that. but I'm hoping we can rebuild a system that does.
@@IsabellaFrank2 I'm gonna check that book out, thanks!
Not going to lie I choked when the parents said he was 14 as if that makes it better.
Exactly. So your son isn’t a pedophile (though he is now), he’s still sexually abusive. It’s a major issue
14 years old is plenty old enough to know he was doing something wrong.. the whole thing disgusts me
I was abused by a 14yo when I was 7, he DEFINITELY knew what he was doing.
So she’s worried about a transgender individual using a bathroom and potentially abusing children (which has never happened from my research) but not concerned of their own son who is actively sexually abusing his own sisters? What goes through their heads?
"oh my gosh, i'm not the only one?" that broke my damn heart when she said that. when coming forward about sexual abuse, it's good to know that you are not alone in your struggle and you have people who understand, but the fact that she said that in response to learning that she was not the only one sexually abused by her father is absolutely disgusting. those poor kids.
I can't believe how much I watched TLC growing up. It seemed good but now looking back it was so toxic
So glad that I found you Jen! I used to talk fundie snark (which we didn't even call that) with my mother who raised in a large family that was devoutly catholic. She passed a few years ago and I have been looking for another outlet to fill the snarking void that my mom is gone. I am not super involved in your community (as I am the most social awkward human) but just know I look forward to your videos for my weekly fundie discourse. I have nothing to add about JD situation, because I feel everything has been said. My only hope is the children involved in the family and community get the help they need.
I really appreciate you coming at these stories with both empathy and humor. from trixie to the industrial prison complex your an absolute queen
I agree do NOT go down the rabbit hole finding out about the video Josh got. It caused me 48 hours of panic attacks.
what I find most concerning is that the Duggars watch the information their kids are exposed to like hawks so the little sisters probably have no idea what is going on they might even think he is going to a retreat
Ugh, I just love you. You love Trixie, you’re smart and thorough, and you’re beautiful and you know it. What a Queen.
I came to comment basically this exact thing. We love you Jen!
Also you are gorgeous Alicia! 🖤
Man, I remember when we all thought it was tax evasion.
Simpler times. 😕
the relief and immediate fear when u mentioned cake boss was a rollercoaster
Josh Duggar, Honey Boo Boo's mom's live in boyfriend, and more and more stories coming out about Big Ed....just so many
Did Jim Bob just justify what Josh did by saying "he was a child, preying on a child"? Is he going to justify these new charges with "he was just an internet user"
i can’t stand how people always ask why keep quiet and ask so shocked about the abuse like it usually someone you know or in your family it makes abuse victims feel so unheard and unseen
"What is the deal with TLC and Predators?"
Josh Dugger has entered the chat...
Mama June is typing
I don’t think they look into these people before casting them
“I’m not going to put on foundation today because I’m beautiful the way I am... you’re just going to have to deal with it” my kinda vibe
You're awesome. Nailed the prison system, nailed the exploitation of children, who I seriously doubt wanted to engage in looking foolish, or embarrassed. Ahem...Go-Go juice. Your perspective is well thought out, I truly enjoy your commentary and content. Thank you!
I hate that I used to watch so many of these shows when I was younger. I used to watch 19 kids.., Little People, Big World, and John and Kate plus 8. Now that I'm a whole adult I just realize how exploitative it all was to all these kids. Lord only knows what happened on these sets that we don't even know about yet.
Yes I mean how much money can you pay someone to agree to being on the network
Except for my feet are killing me etc all other shows are slimy disgusting garbage
my takeaway from most of this is that we should NOT allow children on reality shows. that's my step 1. there's a lot of other steps we need to protect kids, though.
@@ambriaashley3383 It's really crazy to me that children having cameras in their home and having their real lives broadcast on tv ever became the norm in the first place. 'Family channels' on youtube and 'mommy bloggers' who post photos and excessive details of their kids for profit also need to go. There are so many stories of abuse to come out of those situations, and even just the trauma of having your life exposed when you're too young to consent and having no real boundaries must be immense.
I've been waiting for this one! I respect how careful you are with this, to not cause further harm than there already is.
Jen, I appreciate your thoroughness in these videos! :) Having grown up in a fundamentalist community, (Church 3 times a week + school at the same place from 4k-12th grade) I was presented with topics like these, and learned about so many people you have covered on your channel. The conversations we had, however, were very different and we learned about them through a fundamentalist lens. We were taught to praise and respect so many of these toxic people "despite their wrongdoings" because they were "fighting for us". I always knew deep down how toxic this was, which filled me with so much anger. Once I was able to get away from that community, approaching topics/people like these was difficult for me because it always triggered those memories and feelings of resentment. For so many people, these topics are so shocking and sad, but for me and my friends, we lived it like it was a normal life until we were 18.
Your channel has become a comfort zone to me. I can revisit these topics and receive such a thorough understanding, and finally have a safe space where these horrible actions are condemned and not brushed under the rug. As a progressive Christian now, I feel so respected through your understanding and kindness towards those of us who had to grow up in spaces like this. So, thank you for this channel, and all the hard work you put into each of your videos. I know for a fact that if I knew you in person, I would want you to be my friend!
The craziest thing is that his life behind bars will change drastically, while Anna’s life may just remain the same…as child rearing and daily household responsibilities fall on the wife in these groups anyway.
from "i want you to know that i AM trustworthy"
to "sorry for saying the wrong thing last video to be fair i am very dumb" in less than a minute
this is definitely a mood
As a Christian I genuinely feel like your content is very educational and helpful for how to treat others that have a different viewpoint and I love learning from you and how to love others more Thankyou
i watched your jrod and duggar videos before i feel asleep last night and i had some odd nightmares about jim bob and shrek.
Shrek would never cover up a crime for his son. Shrek prolly beats up predators, and would bury them in his swamp. Now im getting out of control. Sorry
@@allissonjacobisaacson6190 it's ok I was thinking same
great question! there is a common denominator here.
I am so sad for the Duggar kids. Jill deserves a bit more credit for the courage she had in speaking out when it first happened in 2002. I hope that justice is done because my abuser was never caught and the only evidence is my memory.
that “damn, double homocide” clip is always gonna be iconic. the girl who said that has gotta be witty as hell.
I grew up about a thirty minute drive from the Duggars. They used to come into the store where I worked and would stand on busy street corners holding signs when Jim Bob was trying to get back into politics. This is the first video I’ve ever watched of yours and I learned so much, despite being so close to them all this time. The general feeling surrounding them where I am from, is negative. I hope to god the show is cancelled.
You know, I remember when TLC was actually “The Learning Channel”. What in the holy fuck happened?
I actually remember when they had quilting and scrapbooks shows. I think there was maybe even learning about nature, it's resources, and even animals.
WHAT I didn’t know they ever posted educational content. I was always so confused by their channel name
@@lorynramage350 Yup. When it first started it was The Learning Channel with actual good programming. 😂
@@lorynramage350 Really depends on how old you are, whether you knew it’s original content or not. I’m a Gen X’er so I remember. 😂😂😂😂
“This was so insane and crazy. Who was gonna believe me?”
Me. Right away, me. Right away, a lot of us. It’s not surprising.
Honestly the fact that the one Willis daughter sounded excited that her sister also went through the same thing and she wasn’t alone in her trauma broke my heart.
A) the blooper warmed my heart
B) that Roloff statement slaps, what a well written gut punch
C) I am so, so greatful to you for talking about mass incarceration, thank you for continuing to put all of these issues in perspective.
I can't imagine how legitamately evil this person & possible family members are to have karma be giving so much to Josh. It seems like so many monsters get away free or slaps on the wrists, so karma actually stepping up makes me think the duggars are extra evil. I'm scared to ever know what the kids in that family have gone through.
Believing in Karma or Heaven / Hell just breeds a sense of complacency that allows evil people to get away with being evil. The only possible justice will come from ordinary people banding together and demanding f better.
@@justinwatson1510 I guess I don't see karma the same way. Karma seems more like a mixture of luck & superstition to me. People have to do the things you said & not rely on anything but that. But hopefully by doing good (or bad) karma might come along & help out. And maybe once the balance of shit & not shit tips more toward not shit, it'll be easier to not hope for luck & superstition, and believe in humans instead more often.
Let’s try to take karma into our own hands and join organizations of like-minded people who want to make the world better. We have strength in numbers, and I think there are more people like us than there are people like them.
The idea of karma in the way you describe seems to me like it’s a worldview that leads to people in bad circumstances being blamed for their own misfortunes. Just because someone is in a bad situation in life doesn’t mean they or their family did something in their past to deserve it, that comes off as victim blaming. Of course I’m glad Josh is getting prosecuted for his crimes, but that’s due to his own specific actions being detected and prosecuted by investigators. I’m not trying to disrespect your beliefs but I see a lot of people saying stuff like this and it seems like a lot of times they haven’t thought through the implications of what they’re saying. What caught Josh isn’t karma catching up with him, it was federal agents doing their jobs and finding out what he did, building a case, arresting him, etc. it worries me that conceptions of karma like you described could lead to people being complacent with evildoers eventually getting their karmic retribution, ignoring that it takes actual human efforts to ensure those evil deeds are detected, investigated, and charged in court.
@@minimoomin I whole heartedly agree with what you said about ppl being behind why Josh is getting prosecuted. A lot of time, hard work & I'd have to imagine mental/emotional damage to the ppl who did it went into getting him arrested. And I thought A
a lot about what you said about how I explained karma & I have to disagree. Maybe because I know what I'm thinking that I'm not explaining it well, but I don't think how I said it conveys that. If it does though, that's not what I mean.
It's almost a week since I discovered GEM your channel is. Duggars video popped up in my recommendations and since I heard about the arrest, I was curious to get to know more. And I binged almost all your videos since then.
Huge respect for basically everything about you & your content. And respect for staying respectful towards ppl you talk about and staying true to yourself at the same time. Really like your personality and the way you treat every topic, being often deemed as difficult or sensitive. And I LOVE your editing and sense of snark/humor :)
EDIT - yet another very important video of yours. You use being passionate about the fundamentalism topic at large to actually amplify important issues happening plus always giving out large context with your own commentary, so folks watching can make up their own minds (plus use sources you link in the description). I wish there were more such channels and people approaching subjects with open mind and desire of knowledge.
Special shoutout to *ALLEGEDLY* which never fails to crack me up!