Cultimatum: The Cult & Human Trafficking Podcast

Ep,#94 ORGSM: The Memoir OneTaste Doesn’t Want You to Read

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In this episode, Ruwan Meepagala shares his personal journey as a former member of the One Taste cult, discussing the psychological impact of cult indoctrination, the nuances of the Netflix documentary about the group, and his memoir 'ORGSM : a Memoir'. He explores the manipulation tactics used by cult leaders, the challenges of leaving a high-control group, and the importance of understanding the co...

Ep.#92 The Courage to Leave: The Briggs’ Story of Faith, Freedom, and Healing

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In this episode, Shannon and John D. Briggs share their profound journey of leaving the Jehovah's Witnesses and the challenges they faced along the way. They discuss their personal struggles with addiction, domestic violence, and the impact of their upbringing in a high-control group. Through their experiences, they emphasize the importance of self-advocacy, doing personal research, and the healing process th...

Ep. #92 Level 6 and the Breaking Point: Inside the Training in Power Cult

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In this episode of Cultimatum, Sharon Stopforth recounts her experience in the Training in Power cult, detailing how she was recruited, drawn deeper through various training levels, and eventually recognized the group’s manipulative nature. She shares the intimidation tactics used to maintain control, the red flags she overlooked, and the pivotal moment that led her to leave. Sharon also reflects on...

Ep.#91 The Hidden World of Sri Chinmoy: Celibacy, Celebrity, and Cult Control

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In this episode, Harry Rob Brunner shares his profound journey as a former member of the Sri Chinmoy cult, detailing his experiences, the cult's teachings, and the impact of celebrity influence. He discusses the unique rules of the cult, including celibacy and the guru's control over disciples, as well as his struggles with personal identity and relationships. Harry reflects on the...

Ep.#90 Polo The EX JW

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In this episode of Cultimatum, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody engage in a deep conversation with Polo, a former Jehovah's Witness who shares his journey from being born into the cult to his eventual departure. The discussion covers the tactics used by cults to recruit vulnerable individuals, the impact of doomsday beliefs, and the challenges faced when leaving such organizations. Polo reflects on his experiences with education...

Ep. #89 Jennifer Redcay-Pushing Back The Darkness

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Jennifer Redcay shares her harrowing journey of growing up in a Christian-based cult, detailing the emotional and physical abuse she endured. Jennifer discusses her early life, the manipulative tactics used by the cult leaders, and the isolation she experienced. She recounts the turning point that led her to leave the cult and her subsequent healing journey, emphasizing the importance of...

Ep.#88 Nicole-Mafi-The Leader's Daughter (Part 2)

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In this episode, Nicole Mafi shares her harrowing journey growing up in the Kingston clan, a polygamist cult led by her father. She discusses the strict control over education, the trauma she experienced, and the challenges of leaving the cult. Nicole reflects on her desire for personal growth and education, the impact of cult ideology on her life, and her ongoing recovery from trauma. Her story highlights the...

Ep. #87 Nicole Mafi-The Leader's Daughter (part 1)

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In this episode, Nicole Mafi shares her harrowing journey growing up in the Kingston clan, a polygamist cult led by her father. She discusses the strict control over education, the trauma she experienced, and the challenges of leaving the cult. Nicole reflects on her desire for personal growth and education, the impact of cult ideology on her life, and her ongoing recovery from trauma. Her story highlights...

Ep. #86 From Apostolic Preacher to Professional Fighter With Seth Pelfrey

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In this episode of Cultimatum, Seth Pelfrey shares his harrowing journey from being a member of a high-control religious group to finding freedom and self-identity. He discusses the struggles of labeling his past as a cult, the intense indoctrination he experienced, and the challenges he faced in his marriage due to the cult's influence. Seth emphasizes the importance of questioning beliefs and the...

Ep, #85 SInside The Rama Cult: Shifrah's Story

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In this episode, Shifrah Morgan shares her harrowing experience growing up in the Rama cult, detailing the manipulation, gaslighting, and control tactics employed by its leader. She discusses her early life, the psychological and physical abuse within the cult, and her eventual escape at the age of 14. Shifrah reflects on the challenges of reintegrating into society, her journey towards healing, and her current spiritual beliefs. She...

Ep. #84 Summer Speaks Out: Healing from the Jehovah’s Witnesses Cult

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In this conversation, Summer shares her journey of healing and gratitude after leaving the Jehovah's Witnesses cult. She expresses appreciation for her supportive husband and the new community she has found, emphasizing the importance of unconditional love and acceptance. Summer also discusses her creative pursuits, including her upcoming horror novel, and the shift in her relationship with God. The conversation highlights the ch...

Ep.#83 From Mormon Roots to Cult Recovery: Rob Tobler Speaks Out

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In this episode, Rob Tobler shares his profound journey from being a fifth-generation member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to becoming a vocal critic of the church. He discusses the pivotal moments that led to his faith crisis, including access to historical documents that contradicted his beliefs. Rob highlights the role of social media in his recovery, the...

Ep#82 Segregation, Faith & Freedom: Inside the Worldwide Church of God

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, we interview Pamela Redd, a survivor of the Worldwide Church of God. Pamela shares her journey from being raised in a cult with rigid doctrines and authoritarian leadership to her path of healing and self-discovery after being disfellowshipped. She discusses the isolation and segregation she experienced, the cultural dynamics of the 1960s, and her eventual transition...

Ep, #81 The Contraption with Barton Allen Stewart

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In this episode of Cultimatum, hosts Anonymous Andrew and Melody engage with cult researcher Barton Stewart, who shares his insights on cult dynamics, societal attitudes towards cults, and the psychological manipulation involved in cult recruitment. They discuss the impact of high-profile cult incidents like the Jonestown Massacre, the public's perception of cult victims, and the challenges of writing about cult experiences. Bart emphasizes the need for...

Ep. #80 Beyond the JW Walls: Healing After Abuse & Control

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In this episode, Cat, a former Jehovah's Witness, shares her harrowing journey from questioning her faith to experiencing abuse within her marriage and the community. She discusses the struggles of leaving a toxic relationship, the hypocrisy of the elders, and the challenges of navigating life after leaving the cult. Cat emphasizes the importance of self-love and finding support outside of the organization, ultimately encouraging...

Ep. #79 Where Do I Belong? — with Sarah Carrington

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In this episode, we explore the powerful story of Sarah Carrington, a nurse and author who shares her journey of resilience after growing up in high-control religious communes in Canada. Sarah discusses her experiences of trauma, her quest for freedom, and the challenges she faced in navigating life after leaving the cult. She emphasizes the importance of listening to one's instincts, the impact of community su...

#78 From Victim to Survivor: Ali's Story

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In this powerful episode, Ali Allred shares her harrowing journey from being a victim of human trafficking, kidnapping, and domestic violence to becoming a survivor and advocate. She discusses the complexities of her experiences, including the manipulation and grooming tactics used by her traffickers, the challenges of escaping her situation, and the importance of community support for survivors. Ali emphasizes the need for awareness around human trafficking...

Ep.#77 Escaping the JW's: Pearl's Journey

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In this episode, Perla shares her profound journey from being raised in the Jehovah's Witnesses to recognizing the cult-like nature of the organization. She discusses her experiences of deconstruction, the impact of cult dynamics on personal identity, and the struggles of leaving a tightly-knit community. Pearl also explores the BITE model of cult control, her childhood experiences, and the emotional toll of navigating relationships outside the cult...

Ep. #76 Deconstructing Hasidic Judaism: Dave Lennon’s Story of Survival

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In this episode, hosts Melody and Andrew reflect on the emotional journey of their guest, David, who is navigating his deconstruction from an Orthodox community. They discuss the complexities of his experiences, particularly during adolescence, and the challenges faced by those in similar situations. The conversation also touches on recent developments regarding the Twin Flames cult, including arrest warrants, and emphasizes the importance of...

Ep.#75 Unmasking the Cult of MLMs

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In this episode, the hosts delve into the world of multi-level marketing (MLM) and its parallels with cult dynamics. They discuss the BITE model, which outlines how MLMs manipulate behavior, information, thought, and emotions to control their members. The conversation highlights the psychological tactics used to recruit individuals, the emotional toll on personal relationships, and the harsh reality of financial success within these organizations. The guest shares...

Ep.# 74 Surviving the Praise Power Prayer Temple with Heather Ford

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In this episode, Heather Ford shares her harrowing experience as a survivor of the Praise Power Prayer Temple, detailing the abuse she endured, her escape from the cult, and her ongoing fight for justice. Heather discusses the psychological and emotional toll of her experiences, the impact on her mental health, and her mission to help others in similar situations. She emphasizes the importance...

Ep.#73 Breaking Free from the Amish: Nora's Story

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In this episode, Nora Bontrager, a former member of the Amish community, shares her transformative journey from a life of strict rules and patriarchal control to one of independence and self-discovery. She discusses her upbringing, the challenges of marriage, and the struggles of motherhood, ultimately leading to her decision to leave the...

Ep.#72 Cults, Trafficking, & the Fight for Justice with Kim Kelley

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In this episode, Kim Kelley, a survivor of the Children of God cult, shares her harrowing experiences and insights into the world of cults and human trafficking. She emphasizes the unique vulnerabilities of children born into cults, the pervasive nature of brainwashing, and the urgent need for societal awareness and advocacy to protect these children. Kim discusses the manipulative tactics used by cults...

Ep.#71 The Dark Side of the Potter's House with Joel Crosby

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Summary

In this episode, Joel Crosby shares his harrowing journey growing up in the Potter's House, a church with cult-like characteristics. He discusses the manipulative tactics used by the church, including military-style boot camps and pastoral manipulation that led to his estrangement from his father. Crosby highlights the struggles he faced with bullying and identity, and how these experiences shaped...

Ep. #70 From Cult to Creativity: Micah's Journey Out of JW's

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Micah Losh shares his harrowing journey as a former Jehovah's Witness. He discusses the impact of growing up in a high-control environment, the trauma of losing his father, and the struggles with mental health and identity that followed. Micah reflects on the challenges of grieving within a cult, the consequences of teenage rebellion, and the painful...

Ep. #69 Confessions of a Former Adventist: Alisa’s Truth

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody engage with Elisa, a former member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Elisa shares her personal journey growing up in a strict religious environment, the influence of Ellen White, the church's teachings on sin and forgiveness, and the challenges of gender roles within the church. The conversation delves into the psychological impact of...

Ep. #68 Recruitment & Indoctrination In The World Mission Society Church of God

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In this episode of the Cultimatum Podcast, hosts Anonymous Andrew and Melody welcome Edgar Loera, a former member of the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG). Edgar shares his personal journey of joining the cult at a young age, the manipulative recruitment tactics used by the organization, and the indoctrination process that isolates members from their families. He discusses the teachings...

Ep.#67 Unveiling the Hare Krishna With Vanessa

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Vanessa Wilde shares her harrowing experiences growing up in the Hare Krishna movement. Separated from her parents at a young age, she recounts the indoctrination, abuse, and neglect she faced in Gurukul schools. Vanessa discusses the impact of these experiences on her life, her defiance against the oppressive teachings, and the struggle to reclaim her narrative. The conversation sheds...

Ep. #66 Escaping Ariel Ben Sherman: Jeremy’s Life Inside and Beyond the Cult

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody interview Jeremy Paskell , a survivor of the Good Shepherd Tabernacle cult. Jeremy shares his harrowing experiences growing up in the cult, detailing the extreme punishments, the cult leader's lavish lifestyle, and the psychological manipulation that kept members in line. He discusses the impact of family separation, the ro...

#65 Shunned at 10: Tim's Aftermath from Jehovah's Witnesses

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Tim shares his harrowing journey as a former Jehovah's Witness who was shunned at the age of 10. He discusses the impact of growing up in a strict religious environment, the trauma of being ostracized, and the struggles he faced with identity, acceptance, and mental health. Tim opens up about his experiences with bullying, childhood abuse, and the challenges of...

Ep. #64 Brandon Salo: Poison into Medicine – Leaving the House of Yahweh

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In this conversation, Brandon Salo shares his profound journey as a survivor of the House of Yahweh cult. He discusses his early life, the impact of his parents' divorce, and how he was introduced to the cult by his father. Brandon elaborates on the strict rules and gender dynamics within the cult, including the introduction of polygamy and the treatment of women. He...

Bonus 1 year episode Cultimatum at One Year: Our Favorite Episodes, Moments, and Milestones

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In this celebratory episode of Cultimatum, hosts Anonymous Andrew and Melody reflect on their first year of podcasting, highlighting their achievements, notable episodes, and the importance of audience support. They discuss the various cults covered, including Twin Flames and Jehovah's Witnesses, and emphasize the need for more reviews to enhance visibility. The conversation also touches on the challenges of addressing...

Ep. #63 The Cost of Obedience: Elisa Flores on Life in La Luz del Mundo

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Elisa Flores shares her harrowing journey of growing up in the cult La Luz del Mundo, where she spent 46 years of her life. She discusses the oppressive control exerted by the cult, particularly over women, and the indoctrination that led her to believe in the necessity of obedience and sacrifice. Elisa recounts...

Ep. #62 Bound by Blood, Trapped by the Children of God: Siblings Speak Out (Part 1)

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In the second part of this conversation, the survivors reflect on the lasting effects of their upbringing in the Children of God cult and the challenges they faced in reintegrating into society. They discuss the role of therapy in healing from trauma, the impact of leaving the cult on family relationships, and the importance of questioning beliefs. The discussion...

Ep. #61 Bound by Blood, Trapped by the Children of God: Siblings Speak Out (Part 1)

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody speak with survivors of the Children of God cult, exploring their early memories and the manipulative tactics used by the group. The conversation delves into the emotional trauma they endured, the isolation they faced, and the control mechanisms employed to maintain dominance over members. The siblings...

Ep. #60 Polygamy and Power: The Kingston Clan Exposed

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, hosts Andrew and Melody engage with Eskel, a survivor of the Kingston Clan, a polygamous group known for its oppressive practices. Eskel shares his journey of breaking free from the cult, the inner workings of the Kingston Clan, and the challenges faced by its members, particularly regarding child welfare and law enforcement's role in addressing these issues. The...

Ep.#59 Inside the House of Yahweh: Jamie's Story

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Jamie Cormier shares her harrowing experience growing up in the House of Yahweh, a cult characterized by strict rules, polygamy, and a lack of personal freedom. Jamie discusses her early life, the indoctrination she faced, and the critical thinking that eventually led her to question the teachings of the cult. She highlights the trauma of being groomed for...

Ep. #58 Born and Razed: Beth Granger's Memoir

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody interview Beth Granger, a survivor of the Community of Jesus Church. Beth shares her harrowing experiences growing up in a cult-like environment, detailing the psychological and physical abuses she endured. She discusses her childhood, the manipulative tactics used by the cult, the harsh disciplinary measures, and the impact of family separation. Beth also...

Ep. #57 Secrecy to Freedom: Leaving the 2X2 Cult

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, hosts Anonymous Andrew and Melody interview Kalie Adams, a former member of the Two by Two cult. Kalie shares her experiences growing up in this secretive religious group, discussing its strict rules, beliefs, and the dangers associated with its structure. The conversation delves into the cult's rejection of traditional church titles, the role of traveling preachers known as...

Ep. #56 Surviving the Unthinkable: Violet's Story

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In this episode, Violet shares her harrowing journey as a survivor of two cults and human trafficking. She recounts her experiences growing up in a death cult that glorified violence and death, the complex dynamics of her family, and the transition to an evangelical Christian cult. Through her candid storytelling, Violet sheds light on the psychological and emotional impacts of her past, the challenges of navigating life...