What does sexism look like in churches? Misogyny? More importantly, what does allyship against sexism and misogyny in Christian faith spaces look like? What does true allyship look like for people assigned female at birth (AFAB) navigating religious spaces? In this episode, we tackle the heavy and vital topic of sexism, misogyny, and purity culture within the church. We break down the systemic biases that hold women and girls to impossible standards while absolving men, examine how patriarchal theology affects self-worth, and discuss why dismantling these systems is essential for a healthy faith community. Tune in as we share personal stories, critique toxic traditions, and outline practical steps for faith leaders and allies to foster true equality and safety. Episode Timestamps

00:00 Introduction: Sexism and Misogyny in Christian Faith Spaces01:27 Host Introductions: Dr. Casey Anne Brimmer and Pastor Bob03:10 Defining Terms: Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB), Marginalized, and Minoritized05:00 Overview of Part One: Gender Minoritization for Cisgender Women06:08 Personal Observations: Restrictions on Teaching and Leadership Roles07:34 Purity Culture, Rape Culture, and Victim Blaming08:08 The Problem with "Side Hugs" and Purity Rules09:18 Acknowledging Church Complicity and Healing from Religious Trauma17:49 Defining Purity Culture: Double Standards and Dress Codes20:25 Holding Women Responsible for Male Temptation21:40 The "Chewed Gum" Metaphor and Sexual Double Standards26:40 Theologically and Psychologically Toxic Assumptions in Purity Culture29:08 The Danger of Infallible Faith Leaders and Unquestioned Authority30:58 Exclusive Male God-Language and Second-Class Status32:20 Women in Clergy: Historical and Denominational Perspectives35:20 Translating Awareness into Allyship: Stopping Purity Culture37:15 Church Safety: Enforcing Child Protection Policies and Background Checks38:58 Recognizing and Nurturing the Gifts of Women and Girls in Faith40:15 Biblical Examples of Women as Leaders and First Witnesses43:10 Assessing Institutional Gender Bias in Faith Communities45:58 Put It Into Practice: Identifying Bias and Enlisting Allies47:50 Closing Thoughts: Why Faith Communities Must Address Misogyny49:44 Action Steps for Faith Leaders: Conversations, Tone-Setting, and Inclusion