Growing Up In and Leaving Polygamy, and Building a New Life Together with SAM & MELISSA

Sam and Melissa have been married nine years, have two young children, and are the creators and hosts of the popular YouTube Channel Growing Up In Polygamy (GUIP). Today Sam shares his experiences growing up FLDS in Southern Utah including being raised in a loving family with four mothers and 36 children. We hear what it was like being in the sect with Warren Jeffs as the prophet including his imprisonment, what led Sam to leaving, and how he and Melissa (who grew up outside polygamy) met and were married. Their story includes a transition out of the mainstream LDS church to where they are today, sharing their story and helping others. We explore topics such as spiritual experiences in and outside of religion, the complexities of belief, and following your moral compass.    Sam and Melissa are well-spoken, thoughtful, and such a great couple. We feel so lucky they took the time to share their fascinating, inspiring story with us.    Find them in the following places: YouTube: @growingupinpolygamy Instagram: @growing_up_in_polygamy Website: growingupinpolygamy.com Email: [email protected]   If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to Holding Out HELP at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org.    ............   We hope you enjoyed this conversation! We'd love if you'd subscribe and follow along. You can also find us on Instagram @beautifulshifts_podcast and on Facebook here where you can find more details on the show, guests, book club details, and more.  Thank you for listening!