133. When the Church Looks Away: Chronic Illness, Faith, and the Call to Love with Claire Staples and Sarah Perry

What happens when the body of Christ forgets its own?

In this powerful episode of The Bad Roman Podcast, Claire Staples (The Clarity Podcast) and Sarah Perry (Voluntarism in Action) join host Craig Harguess for a conversation that exposes the gap between what churches preach—and how they treat the chronically ill. Drawing from their lived experiences within the LDS Church and broader Christian communities, they explore what it means to suffer in faith while being ignored by the very institutions meant to offer support.

Both women share how chronic illness is often not only misunderstood but actively stigmatized within religious settings. Instead of being met with compassion, those with long-term illnesses are often sidelined, silenced, or blamed for their own suffering. Their stories are a sobering look at how churches—particularly those entangled with state-aligned ideologies and cultural expectations—can lose sight of Christ’s command to care for "the least of these."

The Hidden Burden: When Suffering Meets Silence

Claire and Sarah’s experiences reveal a troubling pattern: while churches may rally around someone facing a temporary injury or illness, chronic conditions are another story.

• Church leaders suggested their illnesses were spiritual failures—evidence of insufficient faith or unrepented sin.

• Expectations to “perform” remained unchanged, even when health was failing.

• Requests for help were met with cold bureaucracy or outright neglect.

As Sarah put it: “People hear the word ‘disease’ and they lose it.” The fear of illness—and the discomfort it brings—often leads communities to withdraw rather than draw near.

These moments beg a difficult but necessary question: Are we building churches that reflect Christ, or churches that maintain appearances?

A Return to the Gospel’s Core

Rather than offering cynicism, this episode calls for renewal. Claire and Sarah ground their critiques not in bitterness, but in Scripture. They point to the life of Jesus and the stories that define what it truly means to follow Him:

• The Good Samaritan reminds us that love is inconvenient—and that holiness is shown in how we treat those others ignore.

• Jesus’ healing of lepers challenges the impulse to keep our hands clean when our neighbors are in pain.

• The story of Job warns against the human tendency to explain away suffering with judgment.

These biblical examples offer more than comfort—they offer a roadmap back to the kind of faith that moves toward people, not systems. As Claire noted, “We need to bring it back to basics, back to home and family. Then we would all know Jesus better.”

What the Church Can Do Better

The conversation also offers tangible steps for churches and individuals who want to support chronically ill members with more integrity and compassion:

• Educate congregations on the realities of chronic illness.

• Offer support that doesn’t hinge on a person’s ability to serve or attend.

• Resist the temptation to “fix” suffering with theology—start by listening.

• Build inclusive spaces that reflect the full diversity of the body of Christ.

Claire and Sarah challenge the tendency to outsource care—whether to medical institutions or church programs—and remind us that the call of Christ is personal. The Gospel is not a system; it is a way of being with one another.

Faith in the Midst of Pain

Perhaps the most transformative thread in this episode is the reimagining of suffering itself—not as a sign of divine punishment, but as a crucible that can deepen intimacy with Christ. Both guests reject the prosperity gospel’s promise of health as a sign of favor, and instead point to the promise of God’s presence through the valley.

Suffering doesn’t disqualify us from God's love—it draws us deeper into it.

As Claire shared, “I don’t think I would have fully understood what Jesus did for me on the cross if I hadn’t suffered horrendously at no fault of my own.”

This conversation is a challenge—and an invitation. A call to rethink what it means to be the Church. A reminder that faith is not proven by perfection, but by how we love one another through imperfection, weakness, and pain.

Connect With Our Guests:

Claire Staples – The Clarity Podcast

Claire shares faith-centered conversations on recovering from high-demand religion, chronic illness, and returning to Christ-centered living.

• Podcast: The Clarity Podcast on Spotify

• Instagram: @theclarity.podcast

• YouTube Channel: The Clarity Podcast on YouTube

• Website + Nonprofit: ChronicallyBeautifulLife.com

  • Learn more about the Chronically Care Project and donate or contribute to care packages for the chronically ill.

Sarah Perry – Voluntarism in Action

Sarah volunteers with VIA, a liberty-rooted nonprofit providing direct aid and resources to communities in need—without state involvement.

• Organization Website: viaction.org

• Instagram: @voluntarism_in_action

  • Support ongoing humanitarian campaigns (e.g. Gaza relief, Congo gardens, US seed kits)

  • Sign up to receive free spring gardening kits (US-only) to promote food sovereignty

• Blog: VIA’s website also features resources on mutual aid, self-sufficiency, and disaster relief.

Episode Timestamps:

(0:02) Introduction to the Bad Roman Podcast

• Guests Claire Staples and Sarah Perry join to discuss chronic illness and the church

• Previous Episode with Claire: From Mormon LDS to Freedom in Christ: Unveiling Lies in Medicine, Government, and Religion

• Previous Episode with Sarah: Christian Ethics and Stateless Societies: The Anarchist Approach of the Perry Family

(0:22) Exploring Christian Responsibility in Healthcare

• Discussion on whether Christians are doing enough for the sick

• Questioning the comfort with government management of healthcare for Christians

(0:45) Claire and Sarah's Background with Chronic Illness

• Both guests share experiences with chronic illness in the LDS (Mormon) Church

• Instances of being shunned or misunderstood due to their health conditions

(2:11) Claire's Nonprofit Work

• Introduction to the Chronically Care Project, supporting those with chronic illnesses

• Insights gained from working with chronically ill individuals globally

(4:30) Sarah's Experience with Chronic Illness and Church

• Growing up with vague symptoms in an abusive family

• Expectations and disappointments within the Mormon Church community

(7:41) Church Leadership Response to Illness

• Sarah's experience of being shunned by church leaders for being sick

• Discussion on the importance of temple recommends in Mormon culture

(12:07) Comparing Church Experiences to Cult Documentaries

• Craig draws parallels between the guests' experiences and cult-like behaviors

• Reflection on the control and hierarchy within religious organizations

(17:21) Cultural Influences on Church Attitudes Towards Illness

• How state and government attitudes infiltrate church culture regarding chronic illness

• Examples of church leaders' responses to requests for help and understanding

(25:48) The Role of Medical System in Church Attitudes

• Discussion on the church's reliance on mainstream medical systems

• Critique of outsourcing care to doctors instead of providing community support

(30:28) LDS Church's Relationship with Government and Healthcare

• Exploration of the church's investments in medical and pharmaceutical industries

• Comparison of church tithing to government taxation

(36:06) Scriptural Solutions for Caring for the Sick

• Analysis of the Good Samaritan parable and its relevance to chronic illness care

• Discussion on Jesus' treatment of lepers and its modern application

(49:33) The Book of Job and Suffering

• Interpretation of Job's story in relation to chronic illness and faith

• Exploration of spiritual warfare and demonic influences on attitudes towards suffering

(1:03:38) Why Bad Things Happen to Good People

• Discussion on God's role in suffering and the nature of a fallen world

• Personal story from Craig about his niece's cancer diagnosis

(1:12:26) God's Love and Community Support

• Reflection on God's nature as love and the importance of community in times of suffering

• Craig shares positive experiences of support for his niece

(1:15:11) Closing Thoughts and Resource Sharing

• Claire and Sarah share information about their projects and podcasts

• Encouragement for listeners to engage with resources for supporting the chronically ill

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129. Patriot or Saint with Brandon Kroll

About this Episode

Unveiling the Hidden: How Occult Practices Shape Our World and Faith

Ever wondered why the world seems increasingly chaotic? Why traditional Christian values appear to be eroding? Brandon Kroll, host of the Manna Daily Podcast, joins us to peel back the layers of our reality and expose the hidden forces at play. This eye-opening conversation challenges everything you thought you knew about faith, government, and the occult.

A Journey Beyond the Surface

Brandon's path to uncovering hidden truths began early. As a contrarian by nature, he always questioned the status quo: "I've always been very much the contrarian. I've always been somebody that's like, okay, that's cute, but what else is missing in this history book?"

This curiosity led him to explore topics often overlooked or dismissed by mainstream Christianity. From the Book of Enoch to the alien question, Brandon delved into areas many consider taboo.

But why venture into such controversial territory? Brandon explains: "What I'm trying to do is put myself out there, go behind enemy lines, acquire intel so that we better understand our Bibles, and we better understand the world that's at large."

The Kabbalah Connection

One of the most startling revelations Brandon shares is the pervasive influence of Kabbalah in our world. Far from being an obscure Jewish mystical tradition, Kabbalah's tenets have seeped into many aspects of modern life – including Christianity.

Brandon breaks it down:"Kabbalah is already saying, love the things of this world, earth and eternity. That's fine. God and government, okay, Christ and country, perfect. Scripture and science, you got it. But if you try to say, no government, that's a problem."

This blending of spiritual and worldly power is at the heart of many issues we face today. It's a subtle deception that's led many Christians astray without them even realizing it.

The Government-Occult Nexus

If you've ever wondered about the connection between government and occult practices, you're not alone. Brandon provides compelling evidence of this link: "Ephesians 6:12 with the Geneva Bible... It says, 'for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, and against worldly governors... against spiritual wickedness, which are in high places.'"

Interestingly, the phrase "worldly governors" was removed in the King James Version. This omission speaks volumes about the potential manipulation of scripture to serve political ends.

Rethinking Our Approach to Faith

Brandon's insights challenge us to reconsider how we approach our faith and engage with the world. He emphasizes the importance of personal study and discernment: "Don't just listen to the holy man that tells you what it says... Make it personal."

This call to individual responsibility echoes throughout our conversation. It's a reminder that true faith isn't about blindly following traditions or earthly authorities, but about seeking a genuine connection with the divine.

Practical Steps for Awakening

So how can we apply these revelations to our lives? Brandon offers several actionable strategies:

1. Question everything, especially long-held beliefs and traditions.

2. Study scripture in its original context, looking beyond modern translations.

3. Be aware of the subtle ways worldly philosophies can infiltrate our faith.

4. Focus on living out the basic tenets of Christianity rather than getting caught up in denominational disputes.

5. Recognize the difference between being a "patriot" and a "saint" – you can't serve two masters.

What We Learned About Hidden Influences

This conversation with Brandon Kroll opens our eyes to the unseen forces shaping our world and faith. It challenges us to:

• Look beyond surface-level interpretations of scripture and world events.

• Question the motives behind governmental and religious institutions.

• Seek personal understanding rather than relying solely on authority figures.

• Recognize the subtle ways occult practices have influenced modern Christianity.

Most importantly, it reminds us that true faith isn't about conforming to worldly systems but aligning ourselves with divine truth.

Ready to dive deeper into these hidden realities? Listen to the full episode for more mind-bending insights. And remember, in a world of deception, seeking truth is more important than ever. Stay vigilant, stay curious, and most of all, stay true to your faith and don’t forget “no king but Christ.”

Connect with Brandon Kroll:

• Manna Daily Podcast Youtube

• Manna Daily Podcast Spotify

Books Refrenced:

1. Bloody Zion by Edward Hendry

2. Rulers of Evil by Tupper Saussy

3. Pagan Christianity by Frank Viola

4. New Age Versions by G.A. Riplinger

Bible Verses Referenced:

1. Matthew 15:1-11 - Discusses man-made traditions in contrast to the commandments of God.

2. Mark 7:1-13 - Refers to man-made traditions versus God's commandments.

3. 1 Corinthians 11:2 - Mentions the traditions delivered by Paul.

4. Ephesians 6:12 - "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

5. Philippians 3:20 - "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ."

6. John 18:36 - "My kingdom is not of this world."

7. 1 Samuel 8:18 - "When the day comes, you will cry out for relief from the king you have chosen, but the Lord will not answer you in that day."

8. Hosea 8:4 - "They set up kings without my consent; they choose princes without my approval."

9. Isaiah 5:20 - "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil."

10. Hosea 4:6 - "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."

11. Genesis 6:4 - Refers to the sons of God and the Nephilim.

12. 1 John 3:1 - "Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God."

Episode Timestamps:

(1:04) Brandon's Background and Journey

• Adoption story and educational experiences

• Encounters with contrarian thinking and questioning authority

• Exploration of hidden history and occult practices

(5:57) Brandon's Political and Spiritual Evolution

• First voting experience in 2016

• Shift in perspective during 2020 elections

• Conviction about church practices during the pandemic

(13:49) Pushback and Growth in Ministry

• Experiences with criticism and audience growth

• Concept of being "over the target" in truth-telling

(17:44) The Concept of Sin and Missing the Mark

• Discussion on the meaning of sin and its relation to being on target

• From Pulpit to Podcast: Exodus from traditional church teachings in podcasts

(19:17) Traditions of Men in Scripture

• Analysis of the phrase "traditions of men" in the New Testament

• Connection to Kabbalah and occult practices

(25:19) Occult Influences in Government and Religion

• Discussion on the reality of occult practices in politics

• Recommended books for further research (see below for list)

(47:55) Bible Translations and Interpretation

• Critique of King James Version and other translations

• Importance of understanding historical context and original languages

(54:43) Living Out Biblical Basics

• Emphasis on practicing core Christian principles

• Critique of denominational divisions and political entanglements

(1:03:29) Early Church Practices and Modern Applications

• Discussion on vetting processes in early Christianity

• Implications for modern church participation

(1:05:30) Closing Thoughts and Resources

• Information on Brandon's podcast Mana Daily Podcast and where to find his work

• Invitation for future collaborations

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113. From Mormon LDS to Freedom in Christ: Unveiling Lies in Medicine, Government, and Religion

About this Episode

In this episode of the Bad Roman podcast, host Craig Harguess speaks with Claire Dalton, the host of the Clarity podcast. Claire shares her journey of leaving the LDS Church, her battle with chronic Lyme disease, and her views on the influence of government and institutional corruption. This episode explores faith, freedom, and the pursuit of truth, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of these issues.

Claire begins by discussing her background, including her upbringing in Utah within the mainstream LDS Church. She delves into the cultural and religious environment she grew up in and the factors that led her to question and eventually leave the LDS Church. Claire also shares her professional experiences as a farmer, nonprofit president, and sales representative, explaining how these roles have shaped her perspectives and contributed to her current projects.

A significant portion of the conversation addresses common misconceptions about Mormonism, particularly the belief that polygamy is a central tenet of the faith. Claire provides historical context and evidence to challenge these mainstream LDS teachings, arguing that the original teachings of Joseph Smith did not endorse polygamy. She also highlights the experiences of those who leave the LDS Church to follow Christ, differentiating them from those who leave religion entirely, and discusses the importance of creating platforms to share their stories.

Claire's personal and family struggles with chronic Lyme disease are another focal point of the episode. She details the symptoms, misdiagnoses, and the long journey to finding the correct diagnosis for both herself and her mother. The conversation delves into the controversial origins of Lyme disease, including theories about government involvement and bioweapon experiments. Claire discusses the historical context, such as Operation Paperclip and the release of weaponized ticks, and criticizes the medical system for its inability to properly diagnose and treat chronic illnesses like Lyme disease. She shares her journey of seeking alternative treatments and emphasizes the importance of partnering with God for healing.

The episode also explores the influence of government and institutional corruption. Claire argues that government control has infiltrated numerous sectors, including the food industry, education, the medical system, and even religious institutions. She provides examples of how this corruption manifests and its effects on society. Claire argues that statism is inherently satanic, highlighting how government control contradicts Christian teachings and discussing the importance of recognizing and resisting this influence to live a life aligned with Christ's teachings.

Faith and freedom are central themes throughout the episode. Claire and Craig emphasize the significance of the message "No King but Christ" in contemporary Christianity, discussing how this principle guides their lives and the importance of prioritizing Christ over state and institutional allegiances. Claire shares her vision for creating authentic Christian communities that are not bound by traditional church structures, advocating for home churches and genuine fellowship centered around Christ's teachings.

Listeners will gain insights into the personal and spiritual challenges faced by those who leave the LDS Church and seek to follow Christ. They will learn about the controversial origins of Lyme disease, the failures of the medical system, and the importance of seeking alternative treatments. The episode also provides an understanding of the influence of government in various aspects of life and its implications for personal freedom and societal well-being. Finally, listeners will discover the importance of prioritizing Christ over state and institutional allegiances and the value of building authentic Christian communities.

This episode explores the intersections of faith, health, and societal structures, providing listeners with insights and encouraging them to question and explore their own beliefs and experiences. Claire's storytelling, combined with Craig's questions, makes this a valuable listen for anyone interested in the complexities of faith, freedom, and truth.

Connect with Claire Dalton:

• The Clarity Podcast on YouTube

• Claire Dalton's website

• Follow Claire on social media: Facebook @forgedinhisfire and Instagram @forgedinhisfire

Episode Timestamps:

Timestamps:

1:04 Guest Introduction

• Claire Dalton shares her background: raised in Utah, former LDS member, farmer, nonprofit president, and sales representative.

• Claire's journey from mainstream LDS to her current faith and projects.

2:22 Entanglement of Churches with the State

• Discussion on how the events of 2020 revealed the deep entanglement of many churches with the state.

• Claire's observations on the disillusionment of many Christians with their churches during this period.

1:41 Claire's Personal Journey

• Claire's story of leaving the LDS church and starting her podcast.

• The importance of sharing stories of those who leave the LDS church to follow Christ.

5:28 Misconceptions about Mormonism 

• Claire addresses common misconceptions about Mormonism, including the belief that Joseph Smith practiced polygamy.

• Historical evidence and personal beliefs that challenge mainstream LDS teachings on polygamy.

26:35 The Impact of Chronic Illness

• Claire's personal and family experiences with chronic Lyme disease.

• The political and controversial history of Lyme disease, including its origins and the government's role.

30:18 Critique of the Medical System

• Discussion on the failures of the medical system to address chronic illnesses effectively.

• The role of vaccines and other medical interventions in exacerbating health issues.

53:04 Statism and Its Influence

• Claire and Craig discuss the pervasive influence of statism in various aspects of life, including food, education, and healthcare.

• The idea that statism is inherently satanic and contrary to Christian teachings.

59:20 Closing Remarks

• Seek the truth and question the systems they are part of

• The importance of community and supporting those who are chronically ill or marginalized.

• Craig and Claire reflect on the importance of living out Christian values authentically

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81. Unmasking the Truth Behind COVID-19 with Jeffrey Hann

About this Episode

In this eye-opening episode of The Bad Roman, we dive deep into the complex world of the COVID-19 pandemic with our guest, Jeffrey Hann, author of the book titled Covid-19 – Short Path to you’ll Own Nothing and You’ll be Happy. Our conversation covers a wide range of subjects that challenge the mainstream narrative, offering valuable insights and thought-provoking discussion points.

We begin by exploring Jeffrey's background, which includes experiences in the military, political analysis, libertarianism, and the rave scene. He shares his unique method of critical thinking, which involves grammar, logic, and rhetoric, and how it has helped him to examine various topics, including climate change and anarchism.

As we discuss the absurd behaviors during the pandemic, such as mask exceptions and social pressure, we question the validity of mask usage and whether they may be doing more harm than good. We also delve into the role of police (aka policy enforcers) in enforcing bad policies and ponder whether we truly live in a free country.

The conversation turns to the controversial mRNA vaccines and the reasons to be suspicious of their rapid development and rollout. We discuss the potential link between vaccines and various health issues, as well as the lack of accountability by those in power.

In exploring the fine line between conspiracy and questioning, we discuss the digital dollar push, potential new viruses, and the possible use of the vaccine as a biological weapon. We then examine who has profited from the pandemic and question whether the government cares more about profits than the long-term health of its citizens.

As we cover the erosion of self-sufficiency and market unpredictability, we touch on the voluntary reporting system of adverse vaccine experiences (VAERS) and the concept of "safe and effective." Finally, Jeffrey shares his understanding of Christ as an anarchist who fought against tyranny and offers insight into his book "COVID-19 to You'll Own Nothing and You'll Be Happy."

Don't miss this fascinating and thought-provoking episode that challenges the status quo and encourages critical thinking on the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.

Jeffrey Hann:

BOOK

WEBSITE: Journalistic Revolution

Episode Timestamps:

1:06 Why Jeffrey is on the show

• Paul Perol

2:00 Jeffrey’s Background

• PLUR (peace, love, unity) in the rave scene

• Military, political analyst, author

• Libertarianism, Ron Paul

5:02 Trivia Method of Critical Thinking

• Grammar, logic, rhetoric

• Climate Change and anarchism

7:24 Writing to Refine Rhetoric

• Jefferies articles

•  19,000-word report on covid in 2022

• Chapter layout and intention

11:36 Critical thinking

• Kerry Baldwin

• Absurd behaviors during covid

• Mask exceptions and social pressure

16:51 Is there a valid case for masks the way most people use them?

• Self-responsibility

• The challenge of using a mask properly

• Mask ratings, sealing, fit, and wear time, proper PPE use

• Could the mask be making you sicker?

• Keeping your hands clean

24:36 Is our food safe/helping keep us healthy?

• Public indoctrination

• Mcdonald’s was open and gyms were closed in Covid

• Defending the cops for enforcing bad policy

• Do we live in a free country?

• People forget very fast

• Gold Fish Mentality

30:18 The Thin Blue Line

• Modern-day redcoats

• Policy enforcers are the boots on the ground violating our rights

• 13th Amendment

• Free of slavery unless convicted of a crime

•  Supreme Court – no obligation to protect and serve

• Public Schools foster blind obedience to authority

35:17 Reasons to be suspicions of the mRNA Vaccine Push

• Gene Therapy

• Hard to find information

37:07 Policy Enforcers, Guns, and State Power

• Do you want the government to have guns?

• 2and Amendment is intended to be a check on the government not citizens

• Government is not static

• Global Tyranny is what we are headed toward

• Was covid a test to see how the global population would react?

• If anyone should not trust the government it’s Christians

• Jesus was killed by the state

44:24 The Vaccine Chaos and Future Health Cautions

• Religious exemptions

• Spike proteins and mRNA vaccine

• Buffalo Bills NFL player Hamlin collapse

• Could it be vaccine related?

• Australia Database

• RSV

53:59 Lack of accountability by those in power

• Arresting Trump for money vs mass murder

• Trump brought us the vaccines

• Liability free with the FDA and government funds

• Ohio Derailment

59:52 The fine line between conspiracy and questioning

• “Man in the middle attacks”

• Information scrubbing

• Is the vaccine a biological weapon

• The digital dollar push

• Has the next virus already been developed?

• Vitamin deficiencies 

• D & C & Zinc

1:11:08 Who profited from the pandemic?

• Pfizer and Moderna stock

• Its connection to members of Congress (most owned stock)

• Fauci patented HIV sequence

• Making money off taxpayer money

1:16:10 Does the government care about your long-term health or profits?

• Vaccine Commercial Marketing

• Vanguard and Black Rock own most of everything we buy

• Seed Oils

• Our food system has been poisoned

• Fresh eggs & meat vs. store-bought

• Increase in the price of eggs

1:23:33 Erosion of self-sufficiency and market unpredictability

• Lack of a unified American Culture

• Are we being infiltrated from within or destroying ourselves?

1:29:11 VAERS

• Voluntary reporting system of adverse vaccine experiences

• What is “safe and effective” — how much time is needed to know

1:35:03 Jeffrey’s Understanding of Christ 

• Jesus was an anarchist

• Against tyranny

• Balenciaga Runway Show

• Stantanism

• Sam Smith's Unholy Performance

• God is a pure source of consciousness

1:43:40 How to find Jeffrey’s book and where to learn more about him

• Book: Covid-19 Short Path to you’ll Own Nothing and You’ll be Happy

• More writing and website: Journalistic Revolution

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