Paul was raised as a Jehovah's Witness in a loving family in Hobart.

He grew up thinking he'd never die. He believed he wouldn't even have time to complete school before Armageddon.

But he did finish school, and attend university.

After graduating, Paul went straight to Bethel, to join the Watchtower Society. He started asking questions and came to the realisation the Watchtower may not contain the truth.

When he decided to leave the Jehovah's Witnesses, Paul was completely ostracised by his family and everyone he knew.

He found living outside the faith exceptionally hard. He suffered post-traumatic shock as a result, lost his job, and needed therapy.

Now he's come out the other side, Paul feels he can speak about his experiences.

Further information and listening

Paul's website

Richard's conversation with Nadine Brown, who grew up in a small religious community near Perth

Richard's conversation with Jane Storke, a former devotee or 'sannyasin' of cult-leader, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh