The Legacy of Abuse Podcast

Former students of Christian Centre Academy in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan outline their experience at an Evangelical Christian School at the centre of a 25 million dollar class action lawsuit. Hear their stories of abuse and escaping what they describe as a cult, with updates on the ongoing lawsuit.

Episode 68: A Pause, Not Goodbye 06/01/2025

Episode 68: A Pause, Not Goodbye Join Quentin and Mark for some brief updates. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/36801920

Episode 67: John Olubobokun Trial Closing Arguments 06/01/2025

Episode 67: John Olubobokun Trial Closing Arguments Join us as we break down the closing arguments in the first criminal trial of John Olubobokun, a former staff member at Legacy Christian Academy and Mile Two Church. We recount the bizarre and contradictory tactics used by defense lawyer Ron Piché, including shifting blame to deceased staff, and wild claims about khaki pants and iPhones. We also preview the upcoming trial of Duff Friesen, share what it’s like sitting just feet from the accused, and reflect on the strength it takes to face court again and again. A raw and revealing look at how justice might finally begin to be served. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/36600265

Episode 66: Expert Witness Affidavits 05/18/2025

Episode 66: Expert Witness Affidavits In this episode of latest developments, we unpack newly released affidavits and expert witness reports from the class-action lawsuit against Legacy Christian Academy and Mile Two Church. They highlight findings from experts in education, psychology, and child abuse that expose how the Saskatchewan government failed in its duty to oversee independent schools. The episode also shares triggering testimony from alumni, revealing the deep and lasting effects of abuse. Please listen with care. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/36421735

Episode 65: John Olubobokun Trial Update 05/04/2025

Episode 65: John Olubobokun Trial Update In this episode, Cate and Quentin are joined by Robynne and Coy for a heartfelt conversation about the recent John Olubobokun trial. Together, they reflect on the emotional weight of the proceedings and share their personal reactions to its unexpected new delay, exploring the broader impact the trial has had on their lives and community. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/36228515

Episode 64: Randal Rauser 04/20/2025

Episode 64: Randal Rauser Join us this week as we welcome Randal Rauser, Director of Faith-Based Organization Investigations at Veritas Solutions and co-author of Disabuse: How to Prevent, Detect, Investigate, and Eliminate Abuse in Churches and Faith-Based Organizations. We gain insights into how investigations are handled by churches, and why some might prefer to sweep it all under the rug. Book: Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/36018115

Episode 63: Beth Granger and Grenville Christian College 04/06/2025

Episode 63: Beth Granger and Grenville Christian College Join us this week as we welcome Beth Granger, one of the lead plaintiffs in a high-profile lawsuit in Canada, who is also a former student of the now-defunct Grenville Christian College in Ontario. Beth will share her personal experiences and discuss her newly released book, Born and Razed: Surviving the Cult Was Only Half the Battle. Book: Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/35823305

Episode 62: Christi's Story 03/23/2025

Episode 62: Christi's Story In today's episode, we sit down with an inspiring alumna of Christian Centre Academy, all the way from New Zealand! Christi shares her experiences at Christian Centre Academy, reflecting on her formative years at the church and school, and how those experiences have profoundly influenced her career as a trauma counsellor. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/35589675

Episode 61: Arrests at the Altar of Mark Barclay's Living Word Church 03/09/2025

Episode 61: Arrests at the Altar of Mark Barclay's Living Word Church In the second installment of our series, we connect with Dana and Dan, longtime volunteers from Evangelist Mark Barclay's church, which shares a history with our former home church. Recently, three former leaders from Barclay's church have faced criminal charges—one has been convicted, while the other two are still navigating the legal system. When the allegations surfaced, Dana and Dan courageously spoke out in defense of the truth, despite Mark Barclay's dishonest statements about the events. Mark Barclay also knowingly had a violent convicted felon around children in his church and in a position of leadership without disclosing to his congregation. These discussions are particularly timely given the current political climate. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: 1 /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/35205470

Episode 60: Predator in the Pews of Jeremy Pfeil's Accelerate Church 02/23/2025

Episode 60: Predator in the Pews of Jeremy Pfeil's Accelerate Church In this episode, we dive deeper into the stories surrounding Mark Barclay, Jeremy Pfeil, and their connection to former pastor Keith Johnson. Get ready to hear from Jamie, a courageous congregant from Amarillo, TX, who took a stand for what’s right and continues to fight for justice. We’ll also discuss some shocking new developments regarding an arrest at Jeremy Pfeil’s church. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/35205135

Episode 59: Greg Klein's Story 02/09/2025

Episode 59: Greg Klein's Story This week's episode features alumni Greg, who attended the school and later became involved in the children's ministry at his church. Greg shares his experiences and insights. We also hear how keeping a low profile and being the "good kid" during his school years was a way to cope in that environment. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/34989985

Episode 58: Unraveling Saskatchewan's 1980s Private Education Push 01/26/2025

Episode 58: Unraveling Saskatchewan's 1980s Private Education Push Dive into the murky waters of Saskatchewan in the 1980s, where the seeds for four decades of abuse were sown. This podcast episode explores how a corrupt Premier, a dash of political nepotism, and the strategic positioning of Christian Centre members within the government set the stage for the long-lasting impact we feel today. Join us as we unravel the intricate web woven by key figures like Grant Devine, Chris Gerrard, and Gordon Dirks, who steered Saskatchewan's education system down a tumultuous path of harm. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/34441030

Episode 57: David Swan's Story 01/12/2025

Episode 57: David Swan's Story In this powerful episode, we head to Allan, Saskatchewan, where David Swan courageously recounts his painful past at Christian Centre Academy. Living with the rare genetic condition Lawrence-Moon-Bardet-Biedl Syndrome, David discusses how his disability made him an easy target for mistreatment and abuse. He reflects on the lasting trauma, life after the school and church, and his experiences with systemic failures. A moving discussion of resilience, truth, and the pursuit of accountability. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/34406705

A Holiday Message from LOA 12/29/2024

A Holiday Message from LOA Join the class action lawsuit: Statement of Claim: Join Our Patreon: Donate to our Legal Fund: Instagram: Twitter: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/34641035

Episode 56: Robynne, Quentin, and Cate 12/15/2024

Episode 56: Robynne, Quentin, and Cate This week, take a breather with us as Robynne, Quentin, and Cate bring you a laid-back episode, stepping away from the usual intense student stories. We truly appreciate your support as we navigate these heavy topics together. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a lighter conversation with us. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/34128166

Episode 55: Part Three: Embassy Church Prince Albert 12/01/2024

Episode 55: Part Three: Embassy Church Prince Albert Tune in to this week's episode as we welcome Eric, a remarkable former student whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Eric's educational path began at Christian Center Academy, followed by a move with his family to Leader, Saskatchewan, where he attended a newly established CCA offshoot. He later became a part of P.A. Christian Academy, now Regent Academy. Eric's story is both compelling and heartbreaking, highlighting missed opportunities where the adults in his life could have made a difference but didn't. Don't miss this powerful conversation about resilience and the life long impact of these types of schools. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/33953122

Episode 54: Part Two: Embassy Church Prince Albert 11/17/2024

Episode 54: Part Two: Embassy Church Prince Albert In the second installment of our ongoing series, we welcome Kieran Thibault, the son of the former principal of Legacy Christian Academy and Regent Academy in Prince Albert, Duff Friesen. As a former student of both schools, Kieran shares his unique experiences and insights from his time there and offers his own perspective on the impact these institutions had on his life. Join us for a continuation and look into the schools and churches planted by Keith Johnson. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/33753662

Episode 53: Part One - Embassy Church Prince Albert 11/04/2024

Episode 53: Part One - Embassy Church Prince Albert We invite you to join us for the first installment of a multi-part series exploring the sister church of Christian Centre, P.A. - now known as Embassy Church in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. In this episode, we'll hear from several former minor congregants as they share their experiences at the church and its school. Recently, lead pastor Meghan Stead Mayer has faced controversy following her announcement to run as a candidate for the Sask Party, particularly after allegations emerged regarding her having used blackface on a minor congregant. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/33782927

Episode 52: Announcing…Valour Academy - Part 2 10/20/2024

Episode 52: Announcing…Valour Academy - Part 2 Get ready for an action-packed week with all the latest updates! Back to school is a whirlwind for everyone, but it's especially hectic over at Legacy Academy! In breaking news, a fifth staff member affiliated with Legacy Christian Academy has been charged, while another previously charged former employee is facing even more charges. And if you thought the drama ended there, think again! In a move that had everyone predicting the outcome, Legacy Christian Academy—formerly known as Christian Center Academy—has undergone yet another pathetic rebranding! Don’t miss out on the latest updates—stay tuned as we dive into all the details. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/33337287

Episode 51: Announcing…Valour Academy - Part 1 10/06/2024

Episode 51: Announcing…Valour Academy - Part 1 Get ready for an action-packed week with all the latest updates! Back to school is a whirlwind for everyone, but it's especially hectic over at Legacy Academy! In breaking news, a fifth staff member affiliated with Legacy Christian Academy has been charged, while another previously charged former employee is facing even more charges. And if you thought the drama ended there, think again! In a move that had everyone predicting the outcome, Legacy Christian Academy—formerly known as Christian Center Academy—has undergone yet another pathetic rebranding! Don’t miss out on the latest updates—stay tuned as we dive into all the details. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/33337272

Episode 50: Laurissa's Story Part 2 10/06/2024

Episode 50: Laurissa's Story Part 2 This week, tune in for the second part of a two-part exclusive interview with the parent of a child who was allegedly assaulted by a staff member at Legacy Christian Academy in June 2024. The team at Legacy of Abuse Podcast is heartbroken to learn of yet another alleged incident this year. Given the heightened scrutiny on Legacy following the courageous stories shared by alumni about past abuses, it’s shocking that this institution remains operational with taxpayer funding. We encourage you to listen with empathy and understanding as we delve into this sensitive topic. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/33004717

Episode 49: Laurissa's Story Part 1 09/22/2024

Episode 49: Laurissa's Story Part 1 This week, tune in for the first part of a two-part exclusive interview with the parent of a child who was allegedly assaulted by a staff member at Legacy Christian Academy in June 2024. The team at Legacy of Abuse Podcast is heartbroken to learn of yet another alleged incident this year. Given the heightened scrutiny on Legacy following the courageous stories shared by alumni about past abuses, it’s shocking that this institution remains operational with taxpayer funding. We encourage you to listen with empathy and understanding as we delve into this sensitive topic. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/33004707

Episode 48: Chris' Story Part 2 09/08/2024

Episode 48: Chris' Story Part 2 In this week's captivating episode, we sit down with alumnus Chris Randall, who takes us on a journey through his experiences at Christian Centre and City Centre Church. Chris opens up about the complexities of his father now being the head pastor of Mile Two Church. Despite several deconstructions in his spiritual journey, Chris remains a believer. Expect a mix of heavy moments and some surprisingly (not) silly antics from the City Centre leadership. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/32455357

Episode 47: Chris' Story Part 1 08/25/2024

Episode 47: Chris' Story Part 1 In this week's captivating episode, we sit down with alumnus Chris Randall, who takes us on a journey through his experiences at Christian Centre and City Centre Church. Chris opens up about the complexities of his father now being the head pastor of Mile Two Church. Despite several deconstructions in his spiritual journey, Chris remains a believer. Expect a mix of heavy moments and some surprisingly (not) silly antics from the City Centre leadership. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/32343777

Episode 46: Judge Marilyn Grey's Sentencing of Aaron Benneweis Part 2 08/11/2024

Episode 46: Judge Marilyn Grey's Sentencing of Aaron Benneweis Part 2 On January 18, 2024, a pivotal moment unfolded in the Legacy of Abuse saga. Former athletic director Aaron Benneweis was convicted of sexual assault and exploitation of a minor. Judge Marilyn Grey delivered a powerful verdict, addressing not only Aaron but also the church and school involved. We read through her decision. In this gripping two-part episode, we delve into previously untold aspects of Jen’s story. Join us as we uncover the truth, reveal undisclosed details, and explore the impact of this landmark decision. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/32108997

Episode 45: Judge Marilyn Grey's Sentencing of Aaron Benneweis Part 1 07/28/2024

Episode 45: Judge Marilyn Grey's Sentencing of Aaron Benneweis Part 1 On January 18, 2024, a pivotal moment unfolded in the Legacy of Abuse saga. Former athletic director Aaron Benneweis was convicted of sexual assault and exploitation of a minor. Judge Marilyn Grey delivered a powerful verdict, addressing not only Aaron but also the church and school involved. We read through her decision. In this gripping two-part episode, we delve into previously untold aspects of Jen’s story. Join us as we uncover the truth, reveal undisclosed details, and explore the impact of this landmark decision. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/32108957

Episode 44: The 2nd Protest Episode 07/14/2024

Episode 44: The 2nd Protest Episode Join us for a live, on-the-ground experience at our second protest on June 9, 2024. Alumni and community members came together to challenge the continued government funding of Legacy Christian Academy. In this episode, we delve into the heart of the protest with interviews from passionate participants who share their reasons for taking a stand. We also capture raw audio of a counter-protester emerging from the church, offering a different perspective that adds depth to the conversation. The tension from inside the church escalated to the point where police were called on us eight times, underscoring the intensity of the impact. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/31859992

Episode 43: Sue & Grace 06/30/2024

Episode 43: Sue & Grace This week's episode couldn't be more timely. It has all of us at LOA POD wishing we had a "Sue." All it takes is one adult to stand up and say no, and do the right thing. Join us as we dive into the GRACE former alumni of Christian Centre Academy extended to another church in Saskatoon and the woman who had the power to do something, and did. Join the Class Action: Links and Socials: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/31859077

Episode 42: Jaina and Jaylon’s Stories 06/16/2024

Episode 42: Jaina and Jaylon’s Stories In this episode, we chat with two sisters who attended Christian Centre Academy, now Legacy Christian Academy. Jaylon, a 2014 graduate, and Jaina, a 2015 graduate, use humor to deflect as they share their experiences of life in a total institution environment. The sisters share their stories in both the church and school. The added layer here, their sibling is currently attending the school Join the class action lawsuit: Statement of Claim: Join Our Patreon: Donate to our Legal Fund: Instagram: Twitter: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/31672342

Episode 41: Grenville Christian College Part 2 06/02/2024

Episode 41: Grenville Christian College Part 2 This week on the podcast, we're chatting with Lisa, an alumna of Grenville Christian College, a boarding school in Brockville, Ontario. Founded in 1969 by Charles Farnsworth, the school aimed for high academics and Christian values. But in the late '90s and early 2000s, former students came forward with claims of abuse, sparking investigations and lawsuits. By 2007, Grenville closed amid controversy. The closure raised concerns about private school oversight and student protection. In 2013, former students won a lawsuit against the school, marking a pivotal moment for justice. Join the class action lawsuit: Statement of Claim: Join Our Patreon: Donate to our Legal Fund: Instagram: Twitter: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/31563377

Episode 40: Grenville Christian College Part 1 05/19/2024

Episode 40: Grenville Christian College Part 1 This week on the podcast, we're chatting with Lisa, an alumna of Grenville Christian College, a boarding school in Brockville, Ontario. Founded in 1969 by Charles Farnsworth, the school aimed for high academics and Christian values. But in the late '90s and early 2000s, former students came forward with claims of abuse, sparking investigations and lawsuits. By 2007, Grenville closed amid controversy. The closure raised concerns about private school oversight and student protection. In 2013, former students won a lawsuit against the school, marking a pivotal moment for justice. Join the class action lawsuit: Statement of Claim: Join Our Patreon: Donate to our Legal Fund: Instagram: Twitter: Contact Us: /episode/index/show/c74ebbb3-0bcf-4d05-a02c-97710d383e6d/id/31369097

The Legacy of Abuse Podcast

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