Cults to Consciousness

Featured in the Shiny Happy People 2 doc-series, Cindy was deep in evangelical nationalism when she was hired as head of PR to silence whistleblowers from the Honor Academy at Teen Mania. She was told they were simply disgruntled chiIdren who were lying to defame the massive enterprise. Years later, she would realize, not only were the alumni telling the truth, but the upper management knew about the tort*re the chiIdren went through and did nothing to stop it, or change their practices for the following group. In fact, it was all part of the system to break the will of the interns and mold them into warriors for Jesus so they could penetrate all facets of society and create a Christian nation. Once Cindy’s eyes were opened, she took all their insider financial information to a news station to blast the story to the world. Click here to watch on YouTubeEmail Cindy:  [email protected] the interview with Mica RingoSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mica Ringo was heavily invested in Teen Mania and went through the whole program completely ignoring xyr inner voice of authenticity. Being yourself was never an option in a group that specifically molds teens to be extremist warriors for Jesus. The program was grueling and even abusive in an attempt to break down the character of teens coming in.  Mica would go on to create the Recovering Alumni blog which would lead to the fall of Teen  Mania Ministries!Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Mica on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/mx.micaringo/Website: https://www.micaringo.comWatch the interview with Cindy Mallette, the person hired to silence MicaSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 intro00:05:46 Mica's upbringing00:09:38 Things that lead Mica on the path towards Team Mania00:15:27 Navigating Mica's s*xuality within purity culture00:17:53 Mica's involvement in Team Mania00:27:36 The Honor Academy00:45:09 Mica's blog00:56:55 Mica's Marriage & deconstruction01:09:44 Mica goes to the press01:15:04 Linda, listen01:16:12 What brings Mica joy nowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TIMESTAMPS UNAVAILABLE FOR THIS EPISODECelebrating 250 episodes with these 5 incredible women!  We explore ways in which different Amish and sometimes Mennonite settlements had the same methods of control and even ab*se. We cover their rules, restrictions, medical allowances (or lack thereof), why CSA is rampant and how the perpetr*tors are often protected rather than truly held accountable. The stories and wisdom are beautifully shared amongst survivors supporting each other. They also share ways in which they believe women can take back their power in or outside a cult and gain clarity and freedom.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and support our guests!Lizzie HershbergerSwartzentruber AMISH: The Unknown SINISTER Side of the Strictist Settlement Swartzentruber AMISH: Seeking JUSTICE Against the Strictest SettlementResources: https://www.theplainpeoplespodcast.com/resourceHer book: “Behind Blue Curtains: A True Crime Memoir of an Amish Woman’s Survival, Escape, and Pursuit of Justice” Website: https://www.lizziehershberger.com/IG @lizzie.hershberger Naomi SwartzentruberAMISH: How Growing Up in the Strictest Settlement Led to Dr*gs and S*x Work Naomi’s book:  The Amazing Adventures of an Amish Stripper IG & TT:  @AmishInspiration https://www.instagram.com/AmishInspirationhttps://www.tiktok.com/@amishinspirationFB: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aq4Tw6q9h/?mibextid=wwXIfrElizabeth HiltyAMISH: Her Unlicensed Midwives Used Veterinary Tools Connect with Elizabeth on FacebookMeg Delagrange-Belfon“Sins of the Amish” Doc: Darker Details than They Were Willing to Release on TV Her artwork: https://www.coloringspirit.com/Her Blog: https://blendedmix.life/IG: @coloringspirit Plain Anna Mary BylerAMISH Woman "Sinned" by Taking Her Brothers to Court for SA Mary's Website: https://www.themisfitamish.com/amishresourcesIG @plainrainbows_mary Mary's Book: Reflections and Memories of An Amish Misfit: "My therapist says that’s not true, but I digress" Fb: https://www.facebook.com/Mary.A.Byler/TikTok: the.misfit.amishSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Following up our initial interview with the incredible April Ajoy, we go LIVE with her to further discuss her upbringing as a Christian Nation*list, in which they drilled into teens a persecution complex that would put their life on the line as a declared “believer”. Fresh off the heels of “Shiny Happy People: Teenage Holy War”, April is a successful content creator and podcast host, sharing stories from her past and how she flipped a 180 in her thinking and way of life.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch April’s initial interviewFind April:Book: Star-Spangled Jesus IG: https://www.instagram.com/aprilajoy/Podcast: The Tim and April ShowSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last month the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints lost an appeal to remain blameless in the case of two bishops not reporting egregious acts of CSA in the state of Arizona.  Today we go in depth with former guest and current lawyer Kolby Reddish to further discuss the case and potential legal outcome.Click here to watch on YouTubeCheck out our interviews with Kolby:  Mormon Church SUED for Not Reporting Unspeakable Confessions (the Verdict) ft. Kolby ReddishMormonism On Trial: Ex-Mormon Lawyer Challenges Truth ClaimsHow a Mormon Lawyer Lost His Faith Ft. Kolby ReddishSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After escaping the COG cult in Australia with her husband, Maria Esguerra spent years in higher education so she could become a psychologist and better understand her past. Her mission now is to help other survivors of high control groups and people, move through their trauma and find healing in understanding. She is even doing her best to help legally forge a path for those who are victims of coercive control and help the courts understand that crimes are not always so black and white. Our discussion covers the ways in which children's wiring is not only affected, but hijacked, when growing up in dangerous and or high control cults. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and Support Maria!The Olive Leaf Network: Linktr.ee https://linktr.ee/MariaesguerraIG @cultpsyc TikTok: @mariaesguerra13 FB: https://www.facebook.com/maria.esguerra.75436DeCult: www.decult.netSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fresh off the heels of “Shiny Happy People: Teenage Holy War” we sit with April Ajoy.  She wouldn’t have called herself a Christian Nation*list when she performed her original song “America Say Jesus” on the Jim Bakker show, or when she participated in Jesus Marches across America. April just considered herself a good Christian: faithful, and determined to make America a Christian nation once again. But as her view of the world widened, and she was faced with loss, grief and confronting beliefs, she began to take a closer look at the ideology she fiercely defended and preached herself. A successful content creator and podcast host, April shares stories from her past and how she flipped a 180 in her thinking and way of life. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind April:Book: Star-Spangled Jesus https://www.amazon.com/dp/1546006680IG: @aprilajoyPodcast: The Tim and April ShowSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Featured in the new and second season of Shiny Happy People, Dani was determined to live a life dedicated to Jesus as a young teen. She attended Acquire the Fire events in her early years which eventually led her to officially joining the Teen Mania Honor Academy program. She spent years paying thousands to work for free to travel on a bus and put on these huge events weekends at a time. She would even hang lights as crew, before putting on hour long productions as an actress and singer. At the height of her seniority, someone in the town snitched on her for kissing a boy and her whole world came to a screeching halt. Her friends were no longer allowed to see or speak with her and her unpaid, yet highly coveted position at the Honor Academy was stripped away. Learn more about her journey of working her way back in, with a heavy heart, before finally unraveling it all years later. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Dani on social media:IG: @daniroccamusicIG: @theworldinlights TT: @danirocamusic Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Isolated within a world of a strict Independent Fundamental Baptist, Drew McCoy was more than invested in his beliefs. He would proselytize to anyone who needed God, even if it meant sacrificing his social status amongst non-believers. The closest he came to breaking the rules as a teen was hanging out with non-church friends who would smoke we*d in front of him.  A health scare drew him even closer to his faith and he attended a very strict Christian college that required even more time and devotion than his childhood. Everything came into question, however, when his family bought hard into Young Living Essential oils.  It became religion to them.  Drew did his research and found glaring issues with the founder, but when he confronted his family about it, they gave cultish responses that left him uneasy.  He had no idea that his entire reality was about to come into question. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Drew's Cult Leader confrontationFollow Drew on Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@GeneticallyModifiedSkepticDrew’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/gmskeptic/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:03:46 Drew growing up as an Independent Fundamental Baptist00:06:15 The IFB uses the Bible as historical and scientific evidence00:10:21 Growing up as the "good kid" in Sunday school00:13:10 13 year old Drew defends the bible at skate camp00:17:31 What it was like for Drew being homeschooled and going to church youth group00:22:27 Was Drew ever worried about going to Hell?00:27:42 Drew didn't realize he was being indoctrinated with white supr*mecy propaganda00:34:32 Drew wanted many chiIdren because of the Quiverfull verse00:36:53 How the IBLP made an appearance in Drew's IFB experience00:39:54 What college was like for Drew00:44:32 When Drew started to feel that the environment may have been creating manufactured spiritual experiences00:48:03 Drew explains "Collective Effervescence"00:52:49 Drew's family's involvement in a pyramid scheme created a divide with him01:07:56 Drew's re-interpretations of what he once knew to be "true"01:15:19 Why Drew started his YouTube channel01:22:59 Is Drew's wife still a Christian?01:25:45 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Lebaron group fled the US after being excommunicated from the Mormon church for still practicing polygamy. While in Mexico, the group split and the Ervilite side started implementing blood atonement in an attempt to wipe out the other. Pamela Jones grew up in fear that the Ervilites would come for them any moment. To escape the extreme abuse, she got married at 15, not realizing she was entering into the Ervilite family. Her husband went on to marry 5 other women while keeping her and her family in forced poverty, even restricting water. Today we speak with two of Pamela's daughters who give us their perspective on the cult and fleeing to the US to start a new life.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch part 1 of Pamela’s interviewWatch part 2 of Pamela’s interviewFind Pamela!Pamela’s website: www.Pamelaspeaks.livePamela’s book:  The Dirt Beneath Our Door https://www.pamelaspeaks.live/bookPamela’s Podcast:  Wicked Confessions Uncensoredhttps://www.wickedconfessionsuncensored.com/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the Vampyre community that Father Sebastiaan was the head of, it was sometimes the case that the group rituals and spiritual practices were manipulated into something far more insidious. Khassa and Ashra describe what happened at the group ceremony called Babylon. They were each told something different by Father Sebastiaan about the intention of the ceremony concerning Khassa’s role. In the end, Khassa was severely compromised by him and left questioning everything. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Khassa + Ashra's interviews:https://youtu.be/R3SbSxyFews?si=JgIM7Uw8sLKM7l8Chttps://youtu.be/nivycAxCicE?si=du7_tIyQB03UNQTgFollow Khassa + Ashra on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/liana_elizabeth_omar/IG:  https://www.instagram.com/ashraduvide/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.**Chapter Markers00:00:00 Intro00:03:38 Ashra's upbringing00:06:09 Ashra's introduction to occult practices00:08:30 Factors that may have contributed to her involvement with Vampyrism and Sebastiaan00:11:13 Getting involved with the Vampyre community and Father Sebastiaan00:18:24 Ashra's relationship with Father Sebastiaan00:24:23 Understanding how people can be susceptible to these kinds of groups00:26:08 How the relationship with Father Sebastiaan began devolving into something dark00:32:04 How women were treated by Father Sebastiaan00:37:53 How monogamy was viewed within the group00:42:49 Feeding practices between Ashra and Father Sebastiaan00:47:59 How Ashra was explo*ted by Father Sebastiaan00:51:18 The hold Father Sebastiaan has on people in the cult00:54:20 The final straw for Ashra00:59:47 Why Ashra decided to come forward and tell her story01:06:12 How Ashra is doing now01:08:59 Linda, ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ashra was looking for a sense of community and understanding when she came into contact with Father Sebastiaan, the most public face of the Vampyre community. Eager to learn from him, she entered into a mentor/mentee relationship. Things would eventually devolve into conversations about sex magick and rituals that he wanted her to be a part of. She didn’t realize she was being gro*med to be one of his many girlfriends. He would go on to tell her what to wear and confessed he liked dressing his girls like dolls. Ashra would also end up being exploited for her labor, expected to proofread and edit one of his manuscripts for free. After leaving and being lured back in, she would finally make her escape in 2024. Click here to watch on YouTubeFollow Ashra on social media: IG: @ashraduvide Watch Khassa and Ashra's follow up LIVE interviewSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Growing up, Khassa’ Kaikesi's mother felt plagued by her abilities as a medium. Even though Khassa came from a long line of Magickal practitioners, when she started understanding her own gifts, she was left with no support and felt isolated. She was bullied for her practices and attended 4 different high schools because of it. Once introduced to Vampyrism, the spiritualism resonated and she found herself meeting “the face” and fang master of the Vampyre community, Father Sebastiaan. He quickly showed romantic interest, but Khassa tried to keep her distance as she sensed something was off about him. Serious about her practice and interested in building a community, she set aside her fears about him to help create the inner circle. After a few years, things would take a dark turn and lines between spirituality and self serving ego would be blurred, leaving Khassa as one of many women who would be taken advantage of in more ways than one. For the first time, Khassa steps into the light to expose the inner workings of Father Sebastiaan’s Vampyre community.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Khassa on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/liana_elizabeth_omar/Watch Khassa and Ashra's follow up LIVE interview: https://www.youtube.com/live/t3jPKLfNhKA?si=ZJ66QhPV88vtQFEcSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After 34 years of being abandoned, neglected, and brainwashed, Pamela Jones and her nine children escaped a fundamentalist cult out of Mexico and fled to a new life in the US. She had 2 cars and nothing more than $5 and two credit cards which she didn’t know how to use. Her biggest challenge was acclimating to a life of leadership and tasks she was never allowed to do in the cult. Getting the courage to order food at a drive through was her first huge undertaking. Pamela shares her struggles with helping her children learn in a public school, finding ways to feed and shelter her family, including almost joining an even more insidious polygamous group, and slowly finding her voice and value as a woman. She would go on to found a multimillion-dollar business, Exclusive Services by MyGirls, and has shared her story across the country to show how someone who came from nothing can truly have everything. Her family has grown to include 32 grandchildren, keeping Pamela busier, and more fulfilled, than ever.Watch part one (linked below) to learn more about her life growing up in isolation, hiding from a bl*od thirsty rival church and getting married off at 15 to escape her own familial abuse. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 1Watch part 3 with Pamela and her daughtersFind Pamela!Pamela’s website: www.Pamelaspeaks.livePamela’s book:  The Dirt Beneath Our Door https://www.pamelaspeaks.live/bookPamela’s Podcast:  Wicked Confessions Uncensoredhttps://www.wickedconfessionsuncensored.com/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:05:26 Discovering How To Live in America00:10:14 Practicing Reading & Writing00:15:12 The Order Cult Almost Recruits Pamela!00:22:59 The Struggles of Putting Her ChiIdren in Public Education00:28:17 Starting Her Business & How Her Influence Caused More Women to Leave00:37:25 Deconstructing the Religion00:43:53 Realizations After Leaving the Cult00:51:11 The Steps Pamela Continually Took to Heal 00:55:56 CW: CSA from her brother00:59:08 The Ways Cult Survivors Choose to Heal01:04:53 The Beginning of Pamela’s Business & Where It's at Now01:12:29 Finding Love After Being So Mistreated in Pamela’s First Marriage01:23:40 Pamela's Shares About Her ChiIdren01:29:50 Final Thoughts and Linda ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pamela Jones was born in Los Molinos, Mexico to members of the Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times,  a fundamentalist, misogynistic cult. She was the 11th of her abusIve father’s 57 biological children and 2nd of her mother’s thirteen children and it was from that moment on that Pamela held one single belief:  She existed for one reason and one reason only,  to be her eventual husband’s handmaid and to bear him as many children as possible.  Fast forward to age 10, Pamela was forced out of school to help her mom care for her 12 children,  giving her nothing more than a fifth-grade education.At age 15, Pamela married David Lebaron, the grandson of cult founder Alma Dayer LeBaron Jr.  and was pregnant 17 times in 18 years. After 9 childbirths and 8 miscarriages, Pamela felt she had enough children to make it to heaven, a fundamentalist belief. One day, she awoke her nine children to escape the neglect and ab*se from her husband, and make their way to the United States to start a new life.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch part 2 of Pamela’s interviewWatch part 3 with Pamela and her daughtersFind Pamela!Pamela’s website: www.Pamelaspeaks.livePamela’s book:  The Dirt Beneath Our Door https://www.pamelaspeaks.live/bookPamela’s Podcast:  Wicked Confessions Uncensoredhttps://www.wickedconfessionsuncensored.com/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:10:31 CW: Murd*r, Pamela Explains the Practices of Blood Atonement and How it Impacted Her ChiIdhood00:15:08 Pamela Talks about the Raid on Los Molinos & Her Role of a Mother from an Early Age00:22:15 CW: CA,  The Ways Pamela’s Father Controlled and Ab*sed Her00:28:14 Pamela Shares More About Her Father 00:33:58 Pamela’s Father’s Reaction to Her Meeting Her Husband00:39:30 How Quickly Pamela’s Husband Changed on Her00:43:44 Pamela’s Husband's Actions and Infidelity00:49:09 How Pamela Was Treated as a Polygamous Wife00:54:16 Pamela Makes Plans to Leave Her Husband and the Cult01:02:30 CW: Mentions of R*pe, Pamela’s Father Supports Her Against Her Husband01:09:48 Pamela’s Escape Story01:18:12 Pamela’s Experiences After Leaving Mexico & The Fear that Gripped Her01:26:01 Final Thoughts and Linda ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Demetria is a survivor of an Oregon New Age group called TwinRay. She describes her journey into spirituality after reading Eckhart Tolle's works and being drawn to an online guru who claimed to have achieved spiritual liberation and later claimed he wasn’t even human. He introduced a woman (a former actress) to the leadership and claimed they were 'twin rays' with special spiritual knowledge. Demetria paid these self appointed Gurus $17,000 extra for life coaching and they put her on an all-fruit and charcoal pudding diet for 6 months, on top of charging $9,000 retreats where attendees were given a mysterious 'elixir’, later discovered to be DM.T. Once everyone was in an elevated state and under the influence, they would then make sales pitches for expensive products and future retreats. It was clear that the Twin Rays were living in luxury while their followers were exploited, used for labor, and not given a second thought. Click here to watch on YouTubeFollow Demetria on Substack: Demetriam.substack.comSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Feeling worthless as a young single adult in the Mormon church, Katie was sucked into a relationship with a “worthy priesthood holder” from her ward. Once he discovered her SA, a trauma that others were blaming and shaming her for, he claimed he could cure her using OneTaste’s Orgasmic Meditation. Vulnerable and left in the dark with all things sex related, he groomed her into thinking she needed these sessions with him to release her trauma. Unbeknownst to Katie, OneTaste was another cult who was pushing harmful ideas about SA, exploiting women and much worse. These harmful practices and ideologies combined with his predatory nature, led him to steal her virginity while she was unconscious having a seizure. He later admitted to purposely impregnating her so she would be forced to marry him. Barely 18, with no real support, Katie was left picking up the pieces while continuously being monitored and berated by the Mormon ran Brigham Young University’s honor code office. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 1 of Katie’s interviewSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Born and raised in a Mormon majority town, Katie was doing her best to be the most righteous and worthy Mormon she could be. Everything came crashing down when she was blamed by her mother and shamed by her bishop for being SA’d. They claimed her “purity was tainted” and she needed to repent. Upon graduation, she went to the Young Single Adults ward, where she was primed to be targeted by a “worthy priesthood holder” who tried to lure her into an orgasm cult with promises to “fix” her sexual trauma. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 2 of Katie’s interviewSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.*See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Amanda Rae joins us to talk about the ways in which her former polygamous cult weaponizes ignorance and purposely withholds information about reproduction to keep women submissive to their husband. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Pt 2 on Amanda's channel:  https://www.youtube.com/live/Q_vdflUQ69Y?si=oyE3eTaPp0QMpbimFind Amanda:YouTube:   @TheAmandaRaeGrant         IG: @amandaraegrantSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Daryl Davis has spent decades infiltrating and befriending not only Klan members but Klan leaders, even going as far as to attend their rallies. On a quest to do nothing more than explore racism and gather information for his book, Klan-Destine Relationships, Daryl Davis eventually became the recipient of numerous robes and hoods given to him by Klan members who rescinded their beliefs after coming to know him. He had inadvertently stumbled upon a successful method of forming friendships between sworn enemies. His methods have made him the center of controversy in some circles where he is considered “politically incorrect,” but after proving his methods work, he has made supporters out of his detractors.As a race relations expert, Daryl Davis has received acclaim for his book, Klan-Destine Relationships and his work in race relations from many respected sources including CNN, NBC, Good Morning America, The Learning Channel, National Public Radio, The Washington Post, The Baltimore Sun and many others. He is also the recipient of numerous awards including the highly prestigious Elliott-Black Award and the Bridge Builder Award presented by the American Ethical Union and Washington Ethical Society respectively, to name a few.  Filled with exciting encounters and sometimes amusing anecdotes, Daryl Davis’ impassioned lectures leave an audience feeling empowered to confront their own prejudices and overcome their fears, seeking to build a bridge and forge peace with their most unlikely adversaries.Click here to watch on YouTubeFollow Daryl:IG:  @realdaryldavis Website:  https://www.daryldavis.com/Daryl’s book:  The Klan WhispererSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:06:12 Daryl’s First Time Experiencing Rac*sm00:10:43  The Question Daryl’s Tried to Answer His Entire Life 00:15:42 Daryl’s Thoughts of Why Someone May Join A Group Like the Kl*n00:24:55 Daryl Shares About His First Positive Interaction with a Kl*n Member00:33:39 Daryl Explains the Hierarchy and Organization of the Kl*n00:38:15 Daryl’s Efforts to Interview Members of the Kl*n and Gives Some Definitions of Their Beliefs00:42:57 Daryl Speaks on the State of Civil Rights for POC and Women in the US and Among the Kl*n00:49:36 Daryl Tells of His Methods for Changing Peoples Perspectives & The Justifications Some Kl*n Members Use00:55:55 Daryl’s Perspective On How to Change Someone's Faulty Perspective01:02:43 Daryl’s Interactions with a Major Kl*n Leader and His Family01:09:06 More Interactions with Kl*n Members and Some More Background on the Systematic Rac*sm in America01:18:30  Why Daryl Still Feels Safe While Attending Kl*n Rallies and Events01:23:36 The Significance of Cross Burning in the Kl*n and about Their Supposed Christian Faith01:28:44 How Faulty Information Makes Its Way into Belief Systems01:34:14 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Isolated in the Apostolic United Brethren, Janae’s father went unchecked when exploiting the nature of the religious group. With 4 wives and over a dozen children, he misused his power to control them all. “Life lessons” laced in traumatic experiences would leave the girls feeling helpless, scared and vulnerable without him, even when he was the true source of danger. Essentially acting as a cult leader within an already restrictive cult, Janae’s father took advantage of the system which had lasting negative effects. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and Support Janae!IG: @janaedubose  Facebook: Janae DuBose Book:  “In The Cult Next Door”Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 intro00:04:07 How the AUB split from the mainstream LDS church00:08:43 Hierarchy in the church and how Janae’s father affected their family's place00:10:34 What Janae's father was like and how he got involved with the AUB00:13:18 How Janae's father exploited AUB rules for his benefit00:14:48 CW: CA Janae's father's man*pulation and ab*se tactics00:25:31 Janae's mom's reaction to her chiIdren's ab*se and how the AUB predisposed her to marrying Janae's father00:30:03 CW: CSA Janae's father's openness about his pred*tory behavior00:33:05 How Janae's father's lack of self awareness led to a projection of his own feelings and issues00:35:20 The use of other religious beliefs in the household00:37:07 CW: SA How their father's ab*se affected the boys and their relationships with their sisters00:40:06 The cycle of ab*se (or lack thereof)00:41:43 The constant vulnerability in the house00:43:22 Inability to understand AUB00:46:57 Janae’s feelings on being a plural wife 00:48:54 Janae's mother's search for answers led them to mainstream Mormonism00:56:03 CW: r*pe - Janae’s past left her vulnerable after escaping 01:01:41 Learning to stand in your power as a woman 01:04:13 How people from ab*sive situations can be targets for other ab*sers in the future01:08:47 Finding safety in yourself and life after a cult01:16:16 What makes Janae happy today01:17:50 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the Apostolic United Brethren, a break off from the mainstream Mormon (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints), polygamy is not only expected, but a requirement to get into the highest level of heaven per the original prophet Joseph Smith. Women are also expected to “multiply and replenish the Earth”.  In this 2nd part to Emily’s interview, she delves into what it was like getting married at the age of 17, realizing her father was in fact “evil”, her reaction to him rising up as “Prophet” of the AUB, as well as what her deconstruction process has been like, and what’s it’s been like speaking out in recent years. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 1 of Emily’s interviewWatch Emily’s sister, Melanie’s interviewMelanie’s liveFind Emily on social media!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Good-Enough-444IG: @good_enough_444  Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks:00:00:00 Intro00:03:51 Emotional damage from purity culture after CSA00:06:01 Was Emily pushed into getting married at a young age?00:12:12 Emily's parents told her and her siblings they all lived polygamy in their own ways00:16:08 How much Emily knew about s*x Ed and getting pregnant at 1800:19:28 When Emily started to deconstruct00:24:54 Has Emily discussed what happened to her with her chiIdren?00:31:07 What made Emily decide to tell her story00:37:13 The "Without a Crystal Ball" interview00:39:34 What brings Emily joy now00:46:53 Emily's kind words about C2C00:50:41 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the Apostolic United Brethren, a break off from the mainstream Mormon (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints), polygamy is not only expected, but a requirement to get into the highest level of heaven per the original prophet Joseph Smith. Women are also expected to “multiply and replenish the Earth”. Emily’s mother (the second wife) had 11 chiIdren and had to work 3 jobs to put what little food on the table she could. Even with the best of intentions and all the love she gave her chiIdren, it often left them hungry, delirious and malnour*shed. Emily was babysitting infants and toddlers at just 7 years old with no milk to properly care for them. On top of this, the man who would later become the prophet of the AUB, her father, would come home and rage on all his chiIdren. An emotional and physical tort*re that left them scared and scarred for years to come.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Emily on social media!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Good-Enough-444IG: @good_enough_444  Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:04:00 Emily explains the AUB00:06:42 Rac*sm when it's convenient00:12:19 Emily's family unit- How many moms/sister wives?00:16:37 CW: Depictions of CA- How Emily's father treated his chiIdren00:21:10 How their father's ab*se affected them long term00:27:13 Did Emily's mother try to step in to help?00:30:23 Core memory babysitting infants at 7 yrs old00:35:39 Limited access to food00:38:49 Effects of malnour*shment00:40:21 CW: CSA- why there is a high rate of CSA in the AUB00:51:13 Emotional dam*ge from purity culture after CSASee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Born in 1968, Sarito spent her formative years constantly on the move with her mother, a young hippie in search of spiritual meaning. At just nine years old, what was intended to be a brief summer trip to India took an unexpected turn. Sarito and her mother joined the ashram of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, transforming that fleeting visit into a seven-year journey within the commune—first in Pune, India, and later in the notorious city of Rajneeshpuram in Central Oregon. While in the commune, Sarito was submerged in a world where devotion and freedom clashed with man*pulation, s*xual misconduct, and neglect. After the fall of Rajneeshpuram in 1985, sixteen-year-old Sarito was abruptly thrust into the “real world.” In her book “In the Shadow of Enlightenment” is the gripping story of Sarito’s chiIdhood inside the Osho Rajneesh cult—one of the most controversial spiritual movements of the 20th century.Click here to watch on YouTubeFollow Sarito on social media:Sarito’s memoir “In the Shadows of Enlightenment” Website: https://www.saritocarroll.comFB: https://www.facebook.com/saritocIG: @saritocarroll TikTok: @saritocarroll_authorSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:04:59 How Life Has Been Since the Release Of Sarito’s Book00:07:09 Sarito’s Family's Introduction to the Cult00:10:52 The Beginning of Sarito’s Time in India as a ChiId & Some of the Cults Practices00:17:50 CW: CSA, the Highly S*xual Nature of the Cult and the Attention Sarito Received00:21:15 Specifics About the Cult Leader00:25:59 The Cult Leaders Teachings on Materialism and Wealth00:32:30 The Us vs Them Mentality of the Cult00:36:58 CW: CSA, the Cult Settling into Oregon & the Beginning of Sarito Being Gr**med00:41:54 CW: CSA, More Details About the Gr**ming Sarito Received00:49:48 The Tumult of Growing Up without any Structure or Role Models00:53:23 The Excellent Organization of the Commune & Its Settling in Oregon01:00:50 The Stark Contrast in Wealth and The Cult Leader's Interactions with its Members01:10:40 The Conflict Between Different Members of the Cult & The Demise of the Cult01:15:58 Sarito’s First Steps Outside of the Cult at 1601:21:54 Sarito’s Interactions with The Cult After Leaving and Publishing Her Book01:28:43 Final Thoughts01:31:06 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kevin James Thornton grew up in a small Christian town in Indiana. His early life started at a Baptist church, but once he discovered a Mega Church focused on rock bands and the youth, he became enamored and doubled down on his faith. A Jesus loving, self motivated chiId then teen, he loved his fully immersive church and heavily partook in extremely questionable youth events, but something inside himself felt wrong. Driven by his desire to fit in and “fix himself” he wouldn’t even allow himself to have the thought that he was gay. He attended youth group bible study religiously and went to inner city parks in NYC dressed as “sin” clowns to perform “morality plays”. They even put on extreme HeII based haunted houses with graphic scenes played out by the youth.  Things started to feel grim for Kevin once the group graduated high school and the boys he had crushes on coupled up and got married, leaving Kevin feeling more alone than ever.  Always having buried who he really was, it wasn’t until he escaped to college and found himself in a new group within theater that the inner turmoil would subside.  Kevin dives into what it was like selling everything to move to LA to become a comedian, and how he blew up on TikTok during the pandemic by sharing his old bible study memories (with a splash of autotune).Click here to watch on YouTubeTour dates and tickets:  Websites: https://www.kevinjamesthornton.com/https://www.shamalahamala.com/Follow Kevin on social media:YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNQbKNgL8bcuH8z4pzh9flwIG: @kevinjamesthornton  TT: @kevinjamesthornton Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:04:24 Kevin's early church experiences as a southern baptist00:06:58 How Kevin changed churches and why it appealed to him as a teenager00:09:40 How this mega church appeared to be less conservative but doctrinally the opposite00:10:50 What Kevin's parents thought about his dedication to church00:12:14 What the messages were like at the new church00:14:28 Youth group mission trips to inner cities00:19:10 Messages from the church and the pressure to proselytize and bring more people to the church through events00:22:35 Kevin's dissonance with his s*xuality00:26:56 The story about home bible study during youth group00:30:13 How people in the same situations can have different experiences00:33:25 The mega church's haunted houses for Halloween00:37:27 Kevin's feelings at the time on the haunted houses00:39:06 When Kevin started to realize there were issues with his church00:43:28 How seeing other gay people be acceptable helped Kevin accept himself00:47:14 How his old youth group felt about Kevin's new life in college00:49:56 How reaching out can make someone second guess the best path for themselves00:52:17 Kevin's shift from his old life into the comedy scene00:59:11 How an app and the pandemic changed Kevin's comedy01:06:08 How Kevin is doing today01:11:47 Linda, ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many of you have gotten knocks on your door lately (us included) by the Jehovah’s Witnesses inviting you to attend their upcoming weekend long convention in July. Our friend Jake at @altworldly found a LEAKED copy of their propaganda and promised it would deliver in absurdity and disgusting takes on the “apostates” who have left the religion. Join us as Shelise blind reacts to these videos.Click here to watch on YouTubePart 1 of the streamFollow  @altworldly  Other video collaborations:Ex-Mormon and Ex-Jehovah's Witness Compare CULTure (ft.  @altworldly  )Ex- Mormon and Ex-Jehovah's Witness Compare Doctrine (ft @altworldly)Fear of End Times: Ex-Jehovah's Witness Confessions ft. @altworldlyAn ex-Mormon and ex-Jehovah's Witness Compare Notes (w/ @CultstoConsciousness )Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a 4th generation Jehovah’s Witness, Alissa Watson followed the path laid out before her and married young at a month past 19. Against the recommendation of the doomsday cult, she had chiIdren. During the birth of her first chiId, a pool of lost blood scared her husband into looking into the doctrine of blood transfusions being a punishable sin. Unwilling to lose the life of his wife or baby during the next delivery, he confessed to his wife that he would not be following the blood doctrine if it came down to it. Alissa agreed, but had no idea it had sent her husband down a slow and secret path of deconstruction, until she confronted him about his absence in the church. Research of rampant CSA coverups, a wishy-washy governing body leader under oath and more left her shocked. Their exit out of the religion was messy and hurtful, leaving behind their entire family who refused to even look at them due to the strict practice of shunning.Click here to watch on YouTubeWhy I Left the Jehovah's Witnesses: The Truth Behind My ExitFind Alissa on Social:YouTube: @athomewithalissaIG: @athome_withalissa  TikTok: @athomewithalissa Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code SHELISE at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/sheliseSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:04:27 What it was like growing up as a Jehovah's Witness (pressures & disfellowshipping)00:11:07 Why Alissa wanted to be homeschooled00:13:16 Alissa meets her husband at 17 and doubles down on the religion00:16:14 Dating as a Jehovah's Witness00:18:33 The pressures of being a teenage girl having to get married00:23:52 Alissa gets engaged, sins and thinks Satan is attacking her relationship00:26:51 Jehovah's Witnesses discourage having chiIdren00:30:43 The "no blood" rule causing a scare during birth00:37:23 Alissa's husband starts secretly deconstructing00:40:47 Was Alissa's husband filled with Satan??00:42:47 Why Alissa's testimony crumbled overnight00:47:59 What it was like when Alissa and her family were shunned00:57:31 Setting boundaries and making mental health a priority01:06:09 Why Alissa decided to start speaking out on social media01:14:53 How Alissa's life has changed for the better01:18:34 Linda, Listen01:20:40 Find and support Alissa!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

During WWII the horrific extermination of religious and ethnic groups forced people to denounce their faith and hail Hitler for their own survival. Owen Morgan, former JW and successful YouTuber  @OwenMorganTelltale  dove into the rabbit hole to extensively research the position and stories of the JW people at the time. He explains how Joseph Franklin Rutherford, the second leader of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, made an attempt to align with the Nazi regime to  maintain freedom of worship. However, he took things a step further, actively harming the witnesses and taking the religion in a cultic direction. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch our initial interview with Owen:The Extremely Isolated Life of Growing Up Jehovah's WitnessFind Owen on Social Media:YT: https://www.youtube.com/@OwenMorganTelltaleIG: @owenmorgantelltale Website:  www.owenmorgan.comBook: Was Hitler an Atheist? Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter marks:00:00:00 Intro00:03:09 Owen's motivation for researching the N*zi's treatment of Jehovah's Witnesses during World War II00:04:26 Owen's reasons for leaving the church00:06:36 German Christian national*sm and H*tler's connection to the Jehovah's Witnesses00:10:53 Rutherford's letter to H*tler00:12:10 JW's support of N*zism vs the well known rule of no politics00:15:44 Frank's story as a JW  in N*zi Germany00:21:24 Paul Balzereit's story00:23:40 How JW's were forced into signing the declaration to H*tler00:25:35 How Rutherford came into leadership and the changes he brought00:31:51 Why Rutherford released the statement and the resiliency of JW members00:37:44 Corruption in leadership of Jehovah's Witnesses vs Mormonism00:41:15 Rac*sm in the Jehovah's Witness religion and Mormonism00:44:46 Different schisms of Jehovah's Witnesses and their similarities with the main group00:48:17 Word of wisdom hot drinks vs caffeine debate in Mormonism00:51:44 How and why trivial religious rules and how they can dictate people's entire lives00:57:21 Other recent changes to the religion01:00:05 Financial holdings and corruption in the JW religion01:07:17 Guilt and being a good person as a Jehovah's Witness01:13:03 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bethany was raised in the Jehovah’s Witnesses, only to realize she had been part of a cult for thirty years. The psychological pressure cooker exploded in her 20s with quickly deteriorating mental health. The faux perfectionism drove her into an eating disorder as a means to gain any form of control over her life. When she could no longer pretend anymore, questioning authority and pursuing her personal freedom cost her, her devout family.  She now has a YouTube channel where she discusses the Jehovah’s Witnesses’ harmful policies.Today we are going LIVE with Bethany to further dive into how the Jehovah’s Witnesses completely ruined her relationship with her parents.  Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch the initial interview here  Find Bethany on social media:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/bethanylegerwebsite: www.bethanyleger.comYT: https://www.youtube.com/@stoptheshunningIG: https://www.instagram.com/bethanylegerwriterBethany’s book: Physically In, Mentally Out: Navigating Your Exit From WatchtowerThe best way to reach her is via email: [email protected] to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bethany Leger was raised in the Jehovah’s Witnesses, only to realize she had been part of a cult for thirty years. The psychological pressure cooker exploded in her 20s with quickly deteriorating mental health. The faux perfectionism drove her into an eating d*sorder as a means to gain any form of control over her life. When she could no longer pretend anymore, questioning authority and pursuing her personal freedom cost her, her devout family.  She now has a YouTube channel where she discusses the Jehovah’s Witnesses’ h*rmful policies.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Bethany on social media:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/bethanylegerwebsite: www.bethanyleger.comYT: https://www.youtube.com/@stoptheshunningIG: https://www.instagram.com/bethanylegerwriterBethany’s book: Physically In, Mentally Out: Navigating Your Exit From WatchtowerThe best way to reach her is via email: [email protected] to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks:00:00:00 Intro00:04:25 Defining the Jehovah's Witness religion as a cult-like group00:06:02 What Bethany's family was like growing up00:11:08 Core beliefs of the Jehovah's Witnesses00:15:23 Bethany's gut feelings about the church and the obligation to fulfill duties00:23:20 CW: ED Developing h*rmful behaviors and realizing how being a JW makes Bethany really feel00:25:21 CW: ED Bethany's experience in high school that led her to evaluate the Jehovah's Witnesses00:38:45 What Bethany's mom did to keep her in the religion00:41:16 Bethany's parents' conflicting values and where that confusion ultimately led her00:46:26 How self policing kept Bethany as a Jehovah's Witness after high school00:49:30 The tension in Bethany reaches a breaking point CW: su*cid*l ideation00:51:54 The last time Bethany stepped foot in a Kingdom Hall00:58:29 The moment that changed Bethany's perspective forever01:02:02 CW: SA Jehovah's Witness SA cases in Australia01:03:12 CW: SA The two witness rule and how it allows rampant ab*se to fester for years01:06:10 Barbara Anderson's story01:13:59 New changes to how shunning works01:19:09 How Bethany is doing now01:22:51 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Melanie and Cory grew up in the Apostolic United Brethren (AUB) at the Montana compound. They wouldn’t  meet, however, until long after leaving the cult and all their family behind. Almost a polygamous wife, Melanie had a horrible arranged marriage at a young age and did whatever it took to get out and become free. Now, we look at what happens when a funeral brings them both back to the compound to face estranged family members as apostates. How did their families react to them now that they have a YouTube channel exposing the AUB? Tune in to find out! Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Melanie’s initial interviewFollow Melanie on Social Media:https://www.youtube.com/@NotestoSelf444IG: @Notestoself444 https://www.tiktok.com/@NotestoSelf444Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the polygamous offshoots of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the Apostolic United Brethren (AUB) where the famous Kody Brown and Sister Wives come from. Melanie grew up in this group with 4 mothers and 34 and counting siblings. Her Father was an apostle when she was growing up, but would go on to become the prophet. A position that is said to commune directly with God and Jesus themselves. The highest calling on Earth. Melanie and her siblings were shocked when such an ab*sive man would be given such a sacred calling. Melanie, destined to become a plural wife herself, would have to put up with her spouse courting a 16 year old girl while she was pregnant! She lived a life full of grief and pain and void of real romantic love, until she gained the courage to escape and leave her entire family and community behind. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Melanie and Cory in our LIVE interviewFollow Melanie on Social Media:https://www.youtube.com/@NotestoSelf444IG: @Notestoself444 https://www.tiktok.com/@NotestoSelf444Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:03:36 Why Melanie Started Sharing Her Story; Her ChiIdhood00:08:07 Melanie’s Father Had a Favorite Wife and How it Impacted Her as a ChiId00:16:40 Specifics about the AUB and Melanie’s First Marriage00:22:42 Melanie’s First Husband, and How Her Mother Taught Her Not to See Race00:25:39 CW: CSA, SA, Beginning of Melanie’s First Marriage & How She Avoided Getting Pregnant00:30:55 CW: Mentions of Self-H*rm, Melanie Shares How Marriage was as a Teenager in the AUB and How It Impacted Her00:38:15 What it Was Like Dating Her First Husband and a Potential Plural Wife00:46:28 CW: CA, Melanie’s Faith Crisis After Her Father Became an Apostle & Her First Time Leaving the AUB00:52:35 Returning to the AUB for A Time After Her Son was Born00:56:03 Getting Divorced and Meeting Her 2nd Husband01:05:47 Melanie’s Deconstruction & Her Father Becoming Prophet of the AUB01:11:04 Shocking Information about Her Best Friend01:18:15 Melanie’s Life Now and the Progress She's Made01:27:06 Final Thoughts and What Brings Melanie Joy01:29:40 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shannon Foley Martinez was a vict*m of CSA at age 14.  Never quite able to meet her parent's expectations, Martinez sought out other angry teens. By 16 she was a sk*nhead spouting white supremac*st rhetoric, giving stiff-armed N*zi salutes and tagging public property with swast*kas. Fortified by the love of an adopted family, Martinez left the sk*nheads behind, and today is committed to devoting the rest of her life to helping dismantle the culture of white suprem*cy, as well as helping others find their way to the other side of a life of hate.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Shannon on Social Media:  IG: @shannon_foley_martinezTake back your personal data with Incogni! Use code SHELISE at https://incogni.com/shelise and get 60% off an annual plan.Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:03:27 Shannon's chiIdhood and vulnerabilities that led her to joining a Neo N*zi group00:12:06 How sports helped Shannon00:15:34 How moving during a vulnerable developmental age effected Shannon00:24:39 What high school was like for Shannon00:28:35 A night that changed Shannon's life at 1400:30:42 CW: r*pe How Shannon's traum*tic experience at a party led to h*rmful behaviors00:35:34 Shannon's mom blamed her for be v*ctimized00:43:32 How Shannon's undirected anger led her to the wrong crowd00:49:16 How rac*sm come into play for Shannon00:55:15 What a woman's role in the movement looks like01:00:50 How Shannon found her way outSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shannon Foley Martinez was a victim of CSA at age 14.  Never quite able to meet her parent's expectations, Martinez sought out other angry teens. By 16 she was a skinhead spouting white supremacist rhetoric, giving stiff-armed Nazi salutes and tagging public property with swastikas. Fortified by the love of an adopted family, Martinez left the skinheads behind, and today is committed to devoting the rest of her life to helping dismantle the culture of white supremacy, as well as helping others find their way to the other side of a life of hate.  Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 1:  https://youtu.be/SjlWNeLPKtA?si=4h-zGqOrC_ePCIx-Find Shannon on Social Media:  IG: @shannon_foley_martinezSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:02:54 Resetting living in a safe environment00:10:58 What made Shannon change her perspective00:17:14 How Shannon's college experience opened her eyes to new information00:23:05 Having chiIdren changed Shannon’s outlook & goals00:33:32 Breaking cycles with Shannon’s chiIdren and grandchiIdren00:37:09 Setting healthy boundaries and figuring out appropriate expectations00:42:29 Boundaries with adult chiIdren in the home00:45:37 Shannon's continued healing journey and coming to peace within herself00:56:17 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Christian Picciolini found himself stumbling through high school, struggling to find a community among other fans of punk rock music. There, he was recruited by a notorious white power sk*nhead leader and encouraged to fight with the movement to "protect the white race from extinction." Soon, he had become an expert in rac*st philosophies, a terror who roamed the neighborhood, quick to throw fists. When his mentor was sent to prison, sixteen-year-old Picciolini took over the man's role as the leader of an infamous neo-Naz* sk*nhead group.Seduced by the power, he accrued through intimidation, and swept up in the rhetoric he had adopted, Christian worked to grow an army of extrem*sts. He used music as a recruitment tool, launching his own propag*nda band that performed at white power rallies around the world. But slowly, as he started a family of his own and a job that for the first time brought him face to face with people from all walks of life, he began to recognize the cracks in his hat*ful ideology. Then a shocking loss at the hands of rac*al viol*nce changed his life forever, and Picciolini realized too late the full extent of the h*rm he'd caused.Click here to watch on YouTubeCheck out Christian’s books:christianpicciolini.com“White American Youth": whiteamericanyouth.com"Breaking H*te”: breakinghate.comFind Christian on social media:IG: @cpicciolini Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:05:33 How Christian was vulnerable to recruitment and thus got involved00:12:12 American History X and its parallels to Christian’s experience00:13:41 The moment that Christian realized v*olence equaled power00:17:30 How Christian went from going along with the ideologies to really believing them00:19:39 What the goal of the movement was00:22:50 Christian's double life participating in the movement while also playing football00:26:12 Christian's experience with a black body guard in high school00:33:13 The facade begins to fade after Christian's recruiter goes to prison00:36:32 How their h*te for others was rooted in their h*te for themselves00:38:40 Why and how women join these groups00:41:55 How these groups self contain their ideas and how it warps member's perception of reality00:45:35 Christian's marriage and its fallout gave him the freedom to leave the movement00:51:48 Christian non-linear path to healing and how meeting someone from his past changed his future01:00:11 The importance of accountability in healing01:02:27 Where Christian is today and what brings him joy01:05:15 What Christian's relationship is like with his sons and how they feel about his past01:12:11 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Happy Mother’s Day to everyone tuning in! This is an honest conversation between a mother and daughter about the crippling expectations placed on mothers in high control groups. Lisa explains her experience growing up in Mormonism which shaped her view of her options after high school and directly led her to becoming a young mother leaving her dreams behind. Shelise chimes in about what she remembers the messaging being as a young girl in Mormonism and explains the pros and cons of raising a child outside of a high demand religion.Click here to watch on YouTubeConnect with Lisa!Business IG: @spiritofottertail https://www.instagram.com/spiritofottertail?igsh=MWFtdTdodHZ5aDFiOQ==Take back your personal data with Incogni! Use code SHELISE at https://incogni.com/shelise and get 60% off an annual plan.Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks000:00:00 Intro00:03:47 Shelise's Special Announcement...00:04:25 Lisa's early years attending Young Womens00:05:28 The only option for a woman was to be a wife and mother00:12:14 What the crossroads of career vs marriage was like for Lisa00:16:44 Are Utah Mormons different than Mormons from other states?00:21:25 The pitfalls of the church pressuring young people to get married00:28:37 Parenting is already hard enough-- what the extra layer of guilt & shame was like for Lisa00:31:35 The discusses her own break downs00:34:51 The chaos of Lisa getting the chiIdren ready for church, and to show up presenting perfect00:39:50 The pressures of a Mormon mom when it comes to their children's actions00:44:06 Lisa's thoughts on sending her kids on a Mormon Mission00:47:01 Things that made being a parent difficult while Mormon00:52:17 Lisa's regrets as a Mormon mom00:54:25 Shelise opens up about her beliefs and raising chiIdren in a religious state01:04:14 Lisa's thoughts on the after life01:05:47 What is the cost of Mormon salvation?01:12:12 How Lisa feels about the less strict parenting rules the church has now01:18:20 Final thoughts01:26:35 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From a desperate mother in poverty to an American Romani family, Amanda had no trace of who she was. All of her documents were either destroyed or hidden and any trace of her biological mother was gone. Her life was a paradox of luxury coupled with ab*se and isolation. Kept out of school and othered for being adopted, she felt completely alone. Amanda was pushed into an arranged marriage which turned into another nightmare. Find out how she escaped.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Amanda: IG: @redpandasattack93 YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@RedPandasattack93?si=CtRqmiGBKbbrglnqSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:03:29  How Amanda Came Across Cults to Consciousness & Decided to Share Her Story00:05:42 CW: Traff*cked as an infant; Issues of Not Having Documentation00:10:34  Background on Amanda’s Biological Mother & Some of Her Health Issues00:14:00 CW: CA, CSA, Amanda Shares Her Most Prominent ChiIdhood Memories00:19:57 Amanda Explains Some of the Romani Foundational Beliefs & Practices00:24:07 CW: CA, DV, Amanda’s Observations of Ab*se Amongst the Romani People00:28:34 CW: CA, DV, SA, CSA, Details About Amanda’s Father's Targeted Ab*se & Control00:30:48 Romani Marriages & How Amanda Rebelled Against Her Own00:35:58 How Amanda Was Deprived A Traditional Education & Her Efforts to Learn00:40:44 The Materialism of The Romani & The Control Amanda Was Subject To00:44:28 What the day to day looked like for Amanda and her family00:47:02 Amanda Gives Examples of How the Romani Make Their Living00:51:25 CW: Marital R*pe, SA, Amanda’s First Marriage Within the Romani Community00:59:12 CW: DV, Amanda’s attempts to Leave Her Marriage And Turning to Alcohol to Cope01:05:10 CW: Suic*de Attempts01:08:34 What Makes Amanda Happy Now That She's Out01:12:17 How Amanda Was Finally Able to Leave the Cult & Meeting Her Now Partner01:16:32 How Amanda’s Brother Showed the Same Traits as Her Father01:20:51 Final Thoughts & Amanda’s Hopes for Her Family01:24:28 Linda, ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In our previous interview, Gina exposed many ways in which she was trained from birth to scam as a fortune teller. Some of the schemes her family ran on unsuspecting or vulnerable people garnered over $100k. Gina explained how the American Romani family she was a part of, was not living up to the beautiful culture of her persecuted people, but were greedy, ab*sive and scammers. Forced to become one herself, or be beat*n for her noncompliance, she had no other choice but to succumb to their demands. However, once she got pregnant from an outsider, she knew in order to save the life of her chiId, she had to escape. Today we will talk about her life after running away from her family and how the made it in the world with no education past 12 years old. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Gina's initial full interview here:   https://youtu.be/lFD7FaWWWY4?si=gok4dXhuhM_HB_O9Find Gina:  Book:  Shay BariIG: @_shaybari Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_ShayBariSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gina Merino grew up in California with a very strict family which identifies as “Gypsies”. Her life was strictly controlled and she experienced harsh ab*se at the hands of her step mother. At elementary age, before being pulled out of school, she would begin telling fortune, understanding she was lying to people, but had no other choice. She uncovers ways in which her and her family scammed people out of thousands of dollars. When her father revealed a deep secret to his wife and family, both him and Gina were immediately treated like garbage. Gina was stuck, isolated in the family until years later when she made a daring escape and never looked back. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Gina:  Book:  Shay BariIG: @_shaybari Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_ShayBariTake your personal data back with Incogni! Use code SHELISE at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/sheliseSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:03:56 The specific Romani group that Gina came from00:06:20 How Gina feels about using the G-word to refer to her people00:08:08 Stand out memories for Gina00:10:05 How Gina reacted to getting pulled out of school00:11:09 Why it was important to be pulled out of school00:13:56 How Gina was taught to scam at an early age00:20:30 How Gina felt having to lie at an early age00:23:50 The biggest scam Gina witnessed00:29:52 Growing up with an abus*ve stepmother00:38:21 Gina's father comes out as gay and it changes the course of her life00:41:44 Gina's last words to her father00:46:18 Gina was forced to go back00:51:53 Gina is in a painful place, and is put on a strict diet00:53:31 Gina is forced back to fortunetelling00:59:37 Gina plots her escape01:11:16 "I just needed more hugs"01:14:22 Did Gina ever make contact with her family again?01:15:56 What brings Gina joy now01:19:44 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Born a Romani girl in the US, in a very insulated group, Paulina Stevens had her future laid out for her. She was set in an arranged marriage to her cousin at 14 years old and after her dowry was paid, her new family claimed they “owned her”. Things got dark and possessive very quickly and no one would help her. After having chiIdren and realizing she needed to escape, she would spend years fighting back against threats, legal battles and now the indoctrination of her own chiIdren by their father and his family. She still cherishes parts of the Romani traditions and educates people in the culture. Click here to watch on YouTubeBook:  Secrets of Romani Fortune TellingWebsite:  https://www.romanistanpodcast.com/Instagram: @_paulina_v_Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/romanistanpodcastSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:03:28 Background on the Romani, Early Memories00:07:52 CW: Mentions of R*pe, C Marriages, Cultural History of the Romani People and How it Still Affects Them00:11:04 Paulina’s ChiIdhood and How She Was Denied a Traditional Education00:16:27 Fortune Telling, and Traditional Aspects of her Romani Group00:22:19 External Pressures That Led to Paulina to Get Married as a Teenager00:27:27 Double Standards in Paulina’s Romani Community and the Control They Impose Over Women00:32:54 CW: SA, Stark Differences Paulina Experienced in her In-Law's Family00:37:45 The Pressure To Have ChiIdren and Paulina’s Family's Involvement in Her Parenting00:41:25 Why She Decided To Leave Her Community & Her Experiences Fighting for Custody00:48:00 Paulina’s Struggles Fighting for Custody00:51:14 How Paulina’s ChiIdren Are Being Influenced By the Romani Community & How She Stays Involved in Her Heritage00:54:22 How Paulina was and Still is Negatively Treated by some in the Romani Community01:01:28 Paulina Shares About Her Life Now01:05:16 Final Thoughts and Linda ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we are joined LIVE by former Independent Fundamental Baptist Eric, of the show @preacherboys, to discuss the Bible Baptist Church. It has a decades-long history of hiring, supporting, and protecting individuals credibly accused or convicted of sexual abuse and other serious crimes, especially against children.The church’s leadership, particularly Pastor Doug Duffett, has repeatedly minimized, concealed, or excused offenses, often blaming victims and discouraging transparency or outside intervention.  We will dive into the list of notable abusers and church response, the institutional cover-up Tactics, the sermon excerpts illustrating leadership attitude, as well as the key examples of abuse and the institutional response.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch our original interview with Eric hereFind and support Eric!Website: https://www.preacherboyspodcast.com/YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoysFB: https://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/IG: @preacherboysdocTikTok: @preacherboyspod Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CW:  CA, ED.  What happens when religion and power collide in the wrong hands? At Grenville Christian College, once one of Canada’s most prestigious private religious schools, the result was thousands of broken lives.  Once ranked amongst Canada’s elite boarding schools, the impressive facade hid a far darker truth. Just three years after its opening, the college fell prey to the “Mothers” — leaders of a Cape Cod commune that would turn GCC into an institution of paranoia that brainwashed, abused, and terrorized its residents for decades.Staff and students alike were forced into terrifying “light sessions” where they were publicly attacked for their sins. Cruel punishments that demoralized and demeaned were commonplace, keeping residents captive to their shame — by a cult that was hidden in plain sight.The first “staff kid” to be born at GCC, Beth Granger was removed from her parents’ care at the age of 4, because they were deemed too sinful to raise her. When she was only 5, the leaders declared war on Beth’s “sin” of gluttony.  It would take her three decades to muster the courage to escape. Six years after leaving, she helped spearhead a lawsuit against the school lasting 16 years, and won!Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Beth on Social media:website:  www.bethgranger.caIG:  @happygranger Book/Audible: Born and Razed Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks:00:00:00 Intro00:05:20 Beth filed a lawsuit– the first historical ab*se case to go to trial in Canada– and won00:08:21 Beth's early years with the school, and how the Mothers took over00:14:24 Where the Mothers learned their technique00:19:30 The types of Christianity this school was based on00:21:14 How they intentionally separated chiIdren from their families00:25:37 CW:  Beth was denied pay after she confessed her eating d*sorder00:31:08 Who the chiIdren were actually being raised by and the types of environments they fostered00:33:34 How harsh the pun*shments were for misbehaving00:38:35 Beth's banishment to another country as pun*shment00:43:03 The beautiful facade that hid pun*shing mind control tactics00:45:23 Confessions for normal human emotions that were rooted in self-h*tred00:46:56 Beth escapes the mind control00:47:53 Beth's marriage prospect and how an injury led to her physical escape00:51:06 What it was like for Beth to be in the outside world for the first time00:54:23 How Beth became part of the lawsuit and how it progressed her healing journey00:56:59 How normalized h*rmful behavior can take years to unlearn and unpack01:00:56 How Beth met her partner01:01:49 TW: ED - Beth's journey with heaIing and therapy 01:04:36 TW: ED - Beth's experience with therapy (continued) 01:07:44 How writing her book helped Beth trust people again01:10:49 What it means for Beth to be open about her story and how sharing it has helped others01:11:34 What brings Beth joy and peace today01:13:11 TW: ED01:14:46 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Institute in Basic Life Principles, run by the predatory Bill Gothard, would turn thousands of families into their own isolated cults. Matthew Castle was trapped in his own family until his mid twenties. Shielded from the outside world and musically stifled, his talent on the violin was so impressive, multiple colleges including Juilliard tried recruiting him as a young teen. However, without choice in the matter, those dreams were quickly torn away. His mother was so strict and controlling, she even drove him to and from a local college ensuring he wasn’t led astray by the evil world. When she found his personal journal, revealing his sexuality, she immediately sent him to a cult approved conversion therapy conference. Learn how Matthew finally escaped, acclimated to the real world, and eventually found the love of his life– Paul. Click here to watch on YouTubeStreaming platforms: Matthew CastleYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MatthewandPaulOfficialInstagram:  @matthewandpaul Paul’s books:  https://paulcastlestudio.com/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:04:48 What Matthew's early education was like and how his parent's got involved in the Advanced Training Institute00:06:10 How the "Umbrella of Authority" and other IBLP teachings changed the family's way of thinking00:10:41 Matthew's s*xuality and the dichotomy between his feelings and what he was being taught00:14:34 Music in the IBLP movement and how even some classical composers were taboo00:17:52 How even classical music was a tie to the secular world for Matthew00:20:24 How Bill Gothard's beliefs prevented Matthew from attending the most prestigious music schools in the country00:26:18 Matthew's experiences at the IBLP institutes00:28:11 Matthew's opinion of Bill Gothard and the favoritism in the group00:29:01 Bill's pr*datory nature towards young women00:31:31 Bill's near fat*l encounter with Matthew's father00:33:30 The discovery of Matthew's journal and the beginning of the end00:37:31 Matthew's experience at a conversion conference00:41:42 Matthew's last straw and how he escaped00:43:24 What it felt like to leave and how Matthew started to discover himself00:48:22 Paul enters the chat!00:49:26 What it was like for Matthew to starting dating and meeting his partner Paul00:56:23 What secular things Paul has introduced to Matthew01:01:01 How Matthew has learned to identify his feelings and communicate after leaving IBLP01:03:59 What brings Matthew joy today01:06:38 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Louise Roberts grew up in a strict LDS (Mormon) household where the messages of apostles’ quotes would echo throughout. One of them being “if you are ever in a position to be r*ped, ask to be k*lled.” Her mother was not aware that she had already been h*rmed as a chiId. This led to feelings of worthlessness and shame which had her seeking love and acceptance from boys in her school. When she found herself pregnant at 15, we discover how the LDS church handled it despite her and her family’s wishes. A tale of rejection, perseverance and resilience. Click here to watch on YouTubeSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:04:35 Louise’s Family and Her Devout Mormon Upbringing00:12:17 More of Louise’s Mormon Upbringing & Deciding to Cut Ties With Her Mother00:16:00 Louise’s Defining ChiIdhood Memories00:21:50 Louise Becomes Pregnant at 1500:27:19 Louise Experience with LDS Family Services and Why She Didn't Give Her ChiId Up for Adoption00:31:28 Louise Talks About The Religious Repercussions of Getting Pregnant00:40:00 TW: CSA, Quotes from "The Miracle of Forgiveness" that Louise’s Mother Used to Teach Her00:45:42 Toxic Situation with Her Mother and with the Church00:56:44 Navigating Life After Having a ChiId, and Her Mother's Pressuring Her to Get Married01:00:11 The Pressure and Judgement Her Mom Put on Her and Her Husband01:09:25 Deconstructing Her Previous Faith01:14:59 Finally Being Able to Make Friends After Her Faith Deconstruction01:22:54 CW: CSA, Louise Shares A Few More Details About Her Family01:27:44 Louise’s Life Now and Linda ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After 25 years of being a devout Mormon, when Lexi started questioning her faith, she had no support other than the online content made by ex-Mormon creators.  When her father saw that she responded to and agreed with an ex-Mormon social media post, he snapped at her to keep her mouth shut about her opinions.  This was the moment that fueled her to start her own ex-Mormon YouTube channel, and so Exmo Lex was born.Since then, the last 6 years as a content creator have been quite the ride.  Each week she’s furthered uncovered the discrepancies in the Mormon church, all while on her own deconstructing journey.  From dealing with hate comments, to being disowned by her husband’s parents… today Exmo Lex dives into the Darkside of creating ex-Mormon content, and why she’s now choosing to step away.Click here to watch on YouTubeExmo Lex’s goodbye video:  I’m "Quitting" Ex-MormonismFind Exmo Lex on Social media!YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ExmoLexTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exmolexTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nossraviTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelittle.estfarmSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:04:22 Why Exmo Lex decided to start making ex-Mormon content 6 years ago00:07:24 What led Exmo Lex to leave Mormonism00:11:04 The CES Letter, and it's impact on Mormons starting their faith crisis00:18:53 How Exmo Lex decided on her specific brand of ex-Mormon content 00:21:47 The darkside of being a content creator00:26:23 Exmo Lex on being an Ex Mormon content creator while still deconstructing00:32:11 How Exmo Lex's family felt about her creating ex-Mormon content00:43:04 Exmo's favorite response to "the members aren't perfect, but the church is"00:45:31 Exmo Lex's biggest "I can't believe I didn't know that about the church" moment00:50:50 When Exmo Lex decided to give up creating ex-Mormon content00:52:46 What it would take for Exmo Lex to get one video out a week01:01:44 What Exmo Lex will focus on now01:06:47 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a church that requires confessions from ages as early as 8, to an untrained, inexperienced, randomly appointed man, it leaves a lot of room for a potential ab*se situation. In Taylor’s case, she developed scrupulously (religious OCD) and felt compelled to repent of every single thing that would be seen as a sin by the LDS church. Her bishop further took advantage of her, asking for explicit details of her intimate life with her boyfriend, including over text message and in his own home. This type of clergy ab*se is not the standard, but unfortunately not uncommon. Taylor describes living with this condition and the immense guilt and shame that followed her into her mission and beyond. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and Support Taylor! IG: @taylormaydemassage Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks:00:04:53 Taylor’s ChiIdhood & Her Family's Relationship with Mormonism00:12:33 Some Background Information on the Mormon Church00:16:17 Taylor’s Traumat*zing Experiences with One-On-One Interviews & Her Relationships as a Teen00:22:07 CW: CSA, Eating D*sorders, More About Taylor's Experiences with Her Bishop and The Beginnings of Religious OCD00:29:45 Taylor’s Conflicting Feelings Surrounding The Mormon Church00:36:17 CW: SA, Taylor Opens Up About The Details Surrounding Being S*xually As**ulted00:40:36 CW: SA, Taylor Shares Her Experience Being Blamed For Being As**ulted Coupled with Religious Guilt00:46:20 More About Taylor's Guilt and Her Experience Leaving The Church00:49:35 Taylor Shares The Doctrinal Foundation for Her Religious OCD00:52:26 Taylor’s Church Leader's Opinion on Her OCD Diagnosis & More About Leaving the Mormon Church00:59:02 Taylor Describes How Her Mormon Mission Contributed to Her Leaving The Church01:05:14 Taylor Shares About Her Self-Exploration and Decisions Made After Leaving the Church01:08:33 Taylor's Journey and Healing with Religious OCD01:14:04 Final Thoughts & Linda ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join us with the amazing husband and wife team, Sam and Melissa from   @GrowingUpinPolygamy   as they blind react to plot points of the Handmaid’s Tale and tell us all the ways some of these exact things were and ARE still happening in the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Click here to watch on YouTubeYouTube:  @GrowingUpinPolygamy  Website: https://www.growingupinpolygamy.com/Instagram: @growing_up_in_polygamy Email: [email protected] for leaving Polygamy & volunteer opportunitiesIf 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.orgHolding Out Help: https://holdingouthelp.org/Short Creek Dream Center: https://www.shortcreekdreamcenter.org/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn about the shocking similarities between the “Shiny Happy People” documentary cult which is the Institute in Basic Life Principles and the FLDS (Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints)! Joining the conversation is husband and wife team Sam and Melissa from Growing Up in Polygamy. Click here to watch on YouTubeYouTube:  @GrowingUpinPolygamy  Website: https://www.growingupinpolygamy.com/Instagram: @growing_up_in_polygamy Email: [email protected] for leaving Polygamy & volunteer opportunitiesIf 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.orgHolding Out Help: https://holdingouthelp.org/Short Creek Dream Center: https://www.shortcreekdreamcenter.org/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An expert witness for Amish and Mennonite court cases, Lizzie explains the rules of her intense settlement before taking us through her unbelievable story of disaster, lethal betrayal, tragedy, abandonment and perseverance. She even gives us a glimpse of the strange dating practice which takes place in the woman’s bedroom. Decades later she seeks justice against the Bishop who groomed and ab*sed her as a young girl. She updates us on his attempt to escape even the small sentence he was given as well as speaks on other cases she was a part of in which Amish women were targeted and harmed by sinister perpetrators.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Lizzie 1st interviewResources: https://www.theplainpeoplespodcast.com/resourcesHer book: “Behind Blue Curtains: A True Crime Memoir of an Amish Woman’s Survival, Escape, and Pursuit of Justice”Website: https://www.lizziehershberger.com/IG: @lizzie.hershberger  Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:05:47 Recap of Lizzie's story- how her chiIdhood affected her life for better or worse00:08:56 Each Amish community is different00:11:06 How pr*dators can thrive in Amish communities00:14:16 How a p*rpetrator who reports themselves to Amish authorities can get a lighter sentence00:15:59 The consequences of a lack of education on consent in the Amish community00:18:17 The definition of "adult" in the Amish community00:21:19 How ab*sers can seemingly get away with their crimes with little to no punishment00:24:38 What it means to be on probation00:30:03 What going back to court and facing her ab*ser was like for Lizzie00:32:21 How meaningful it can be to have supporters for victims in the courtroom00:34:39 The real life impact of C2C and spreading awareness00:38:58 Receiving supportive messages from those positively impacted from Lizzie sharing her story00:40:39 Amish vs English dolls and why they're different00:42:30 Becoming a victim advocate and helping others as they're going through court processes00:47:17 The language barrier between the Amish and English people and how we can better aid victims by understanding the differences00:47:55 CW: SA00:50:41 How a lack of English medical practices was detrimental to over 400 victims00:54:00 Lizzie's experience going back into the community for a funeral00:57:41 The difficulties of trying to help those in need when it has the potential to put yourself in a triggering situation01:03:47 What did Lizzie wear to an Amish funeral as someone who is no longer in the community?01:07:58 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.