IndoctriNation
Welcome to IndoctriNation: A weekly podcast covering cults, manipulators, and protecting yourself from systems of control.
Episodes
Recovering from Religious Trauma with Andrew Jasko
In this episode of IndoctriNation, Rachel Bernstein, LMFT, MSEd, welcomes back Andrew Jasko, psychotherapist and comparative religion scholar, for a deep and honest conversation about growing up inside evangelical and Pentecostal Christianity — and the long road to recovery from religious trauma.Andrew grew up as a minister's son, immersed in a world of intense devotion, purity culture, missio
BONUS PREVIEW: A Model Cult Exposed
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein reflects on cult survivor and former supermodel Hoyt Richards and provides background on the high-control group at the center of HBO's 'Bring Me The Beauties: A Model Cult.'The g
Justice After Coercive Control with Carol Merchasin
Carol Merchasin returns, and this time, Rachel and Carol go deep on what it actually looks like when survivors of coercive control, spiritual abuse, and high-control groups consider taking legal action.Carol shares how her career shifted from corporate employment investigations to building a litigation practice focused on religious misconduct and cultic settings, and what landmark cases reveal abo
Reality in Ruins: How Conspiracy Theory Became an Evangelical Crisis with Jared Stacy, PhD
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein, LMFT, MSEd, sits down with Jared Stacy, PhD, who is a theologian and ethicist. He is the author of "Reality in Ruins: How Conspiracy Theory Became an Evangelical Crisis." They sit down for a deeply personal and clinically resonant conversation about radicalization, religious trauma, coercive belonging, and the courage it takes to say "I don't know
BONUS PREVIEW: Victim Blaming: Challenging the Myths
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, host Rachel Bernstein, LMFT, examines how victim blaming functions across abusive relationships, sexual violence, cults, and high-control religious environments — and why it remains one of the most pervasive
The Culting of America with Daniella Mestyanek Young
In this episode, Daniella Mestyanek Young returns to IndoctriNation to discuss how cults exploit group dynamics. Born three generations into the Children of God, then a U.S. Army intelligence officer, Daniella has spent her career studying coercive control from the inside out. In her new book The Culting of America, she lays out a 10-part model of cult tactics — the same playbook used in religious
Reclaiming Myself After Mormonism with Lindsey Sanders
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein sits down with Lindsey Sanders to talk about her memoir, The Sacred Song of a Heretic, and what it means to reclaim "sacredness" outside of a high-control religion.Lindsey was raised in a multigenerational Mormon family, where she was taught to value obedience, certainty, traditional gender roles, a limited range of acceptable emotions, and avoidance of ou
BONUS PREVIEW: Inside the Cult of Two
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, host Rachel Bernstein unpacks the idea of "cults of two" — one-on-one relationships that can carry the same coercive control, manipulation, and reality-distortion found in larger high-control groups.
I Belong to Me with Tia Levings
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein welcomes back author Tia Levings to discuss her new book, 'I Belong to Me: A Survivor’s Guide to Recovery and Hope After Religious Trauma.'Tia opens up about surviving church-sanctioned domestic abuse and the long, deliberately paced process of rebuilding selfhood after leaving Christian patriarchy. She and Rachel explore how reclaiming body awareness
American Trickster: The Hidden Lives of Carlos Castaneda with Ru Marshall
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Ru Marshall about the hidden world surrounding the guru Carlos Castaneda. Marshall shares insights from their research into Castaneda’s history, manipulation tactics, spiritual abuse, and the disturbing aftermath surrounding his inner circle after his death.The conversation explores charismatic narcissism, cult control, and how high-control spiritual le
BONUS PREVIEW: Identity After Indoctrination: Rebuilding Yourself After Control
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein explores how survivors of narcissistic families, manipulative relationships, and cultic systems can rebuild their identity after years of control, conformity, and emotional conditioning. Man
Mind Games: Investigating NLP with Alice Hines
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein welcomes investigative journalist Alice Hines to discuss neurolinguistic programming (NLP), its origins, and the fine line between empowerment and manipulation. Known for her reporting on Twin Flames Universe and co-hosting Mind Games, Alice explores how NLP techniques have influenced therapy, sales culture, pickup artists, and groups like NXIVM.Rachel and Alice e
Living Authentically: Escaping Aesthetic Realism pt. 2 with Donna Lamb
In part 2, Rachel Bernstein continues her conversation with Donna Lamb, a survivor of the Aesthetic Realism group. Recruited at 20 in New York City, Donna spent 32 years in the group before leaving in her fifties.She explains how founder Eli Siegel and his successor maintained control through “contempt,” enforced self-criticism, surveillance, and manipulation, including “Respect meetings.” Donna a
BONUS PREVIEW: How Cults Recruit and Control
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein explores “missionary tactics”—recruitment strategies used by high-control groups, including religious, political, wellness, MLM, and online communities. Through the story of “Alex,” the epis
PREVIEW: Your Questions Answered: Exclusive Patreon Q&A
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Q&A video. You can access the full content by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrinationYou asked. I answered, and these questions were remarkable.Every time I read through what this community sends in, I'm genuinely moved by how thoughtfully you're engaging with these topics. This month's Q&A covers some im
Living Authentically: Escaping Aesthetic Realism pt. 1 with Donna Lamb
In Part 1, IndoctriNation host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Donna Lamb, a cult survivor and writer, about her 32 years inside Aesthetic Realism—a controversial group founded by Eli Siegel and still operating in New York City.Recruited at age 21 through an acting class, Donna shares how love bombing, intellectualized teachings, and strict control shaped her life inside the group. She reveals the pr
My Husband, The Rabbit Hole, and Me with Louise Williamson
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein speaks with Louise Williamson about the impact of conspiracy thinking on partners and families. Louise describes noticing her ex-husband’s shift in 2011, with conspiratorial topics becoming obvious by 2014 and escalating into extreme beliefs, worsening further during COVID, as he published anti-vax material and made accusations against her. She recounts social fal
BONUS PREVIEW: Spotting Subtle Manipulation
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein explains how survivors of past coercion can miss quieter, covert manipulation that looks like kindness, concern, or normal persuasion. Rachel contrasts extreme manipulation (overt coercion,
UNLOCKED BONUS: Synanon’s Dark History
You can hear more episodes by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this unlocked Patreon episode, Rachel Bernstein gives an updated intro focusing on Synanon and includes recent news on renewed scrutiny of César Chávez and the United Farm Workers for allegedly adopting Synanon-style practices at the La Paz compound. She covers the UFW’s founding aims and describes r
The Seven Mountains Mandate with Matthew Boedy
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein speaks with Matthew Boedy, who is a professor of rhetoric at the University of North Georgia. He researches and writes about religious rhetoric, particularly in the last few years about the rise of Christian Nationalism. In the interview, Boedy explains rhetoric as framing reality through living language, and describes religious rhetoric as examining powerful “div
BONUS PREVIEW: Messages of Manipulation: Unpacking Internalized Beliefs
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein explains how people who leave controlling, groups, or manipulative relationships often carry repeated phrases in their minds that become internalized beliefs. Drawing on survivor reports, ex
Gaslighting for God with Becky Garrison
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Becky Garrison, author of "Gaslighting for God," about spiritual narcissism, charismatic leaders, and how abuse is hidden behind a persona with little accountability. Garrison describes her background in religious satire, family alcoholism, and how research into trauma and somatic therapies helped her recognize narcissistic patterns without beco
The Rise and Fall of an American Cult with Harrison Hill
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews journalist Harrison Hill about his debut book, “The Oracle’s Daughter: The Rise and Fall of an American Cult.” Hill shares how he connected to survivor Sarah Green through his brother in Brooklyn and how the book centers on Sarah’s escape from the Aggressive Christianity Missions Training Corps, a religious cult founded in California. He situates the cu
BONUS PREVIEW: Breaking Free from Trauma Responses pt. 2
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In the continuation of this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein explains that staying busy can suppress, but not heal, painful emotions and stresses the importance of learning to honor feelings without fear. The focus is reclaiming ag
My Cult Your Cult: Church Universal and Triumphant with Sean Prophet
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Sean Prophet, whose parents founded the Church Universal and Triumphant. Sean describes feeling like an outsider in public school, the group’s rigid us‑vs‑them hierarchy, and being pulled into a tightly controlled cult school. They discuss how cults use hypnotic repetition, aphorisms, thought‑stopping clichés, and emotional loyalty to override critical
Cult Life with Luke Allen
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein speaks with Luke Allen, a survivor of the River Road Fellowship group in Minnesota. Luke recounts his experiences growing up in this high-control group from 1996 to about 2015, emphasizing the psychological impact and the manipulation tactics used by the leader, Victor, who is now imprisoned for his crimes. Luke discusses the emotional challenges and the journey o
BONUS PREVIEW: Breaking Free from Trauma Responses pt. 1
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein explains why people who leave cults or other high-control groups often stay stuck in fight-or-flight, along with freeze and fawn responses, even after they are physically out. Rachel describ
Unveiled: A Story of Surviving Gloriavale with Theophila Pratt
In this episode, Rachel interviews Theophila Pratt, a Gloriavale survivor now based in Auckland, New Zealand, nearly 10 years out and working as an occupational therapist with youth. Born into Gloriavale as “Honey Faithful,” Theo describes a highly controlled life of constant surveillance, strict dress rules, relentless labor from age five, long sermons, and routine public shaming, alongside famil
Saved So Hard I Needed Therapy with Elise Heerde
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Elise Heerde, a certified coach and mental health practitioner specializing in religious trauma, cult recovery, and coercive control. Elise recounts being raised in fundamentalist Pentecostalism with fear-based teachings about hell and the rapture, leading to anxiety, depression, and insomnia. While on staff at a high-control Pentecostal megachurch, she
BONUS PREVIEW: Beyond Black-and-White Thinking
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein covers black-and-white (all-or-nothing) thinking and how cults and controlling partners reinforce it through us-vs-them fear, loyalty demands, and discouraging questions. The episode covers
Weaponizing Religion with John Collins
In this episode, John Collins, founder of the William Branham Historical Research and the 'Leaving the Message' YouTube channel, shares his personal journey of escaping the cult of William Branham. Raised within the cult, where his grandfather was a leading figure, John dives into his awakening from deep-seated indoctrination that began due to a series of personal traumas. He details his e
Neuroscience and Nurture with Susan Bookheimer
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein speaks with Susan Bookheimer, a distinguished UCLA professor and neuropsychologist with over 40 years of expertise in brain imaging and human brain development. The discussion delves into the profound impact of trauma on the brain, particularly focusing on the reward system and the amygdala. They explore how neglect and various forms of abuse alter brain structure
BONUS PREVIEW: Navigating Negative Self-Talk pt. 2
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In the continuation of this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein discusses the importance of self-talk and its impact on mental well-being. The episode covers techniques to regulate the nervous system, externalize the internalized crit
Klandamentalism with Camille Lewis
In this episode, Camille Lewis, an assistant professor of Communication Studies at Furman University, discusses her latest book, 'Klandamentalism.’ Camille, who spent 15 years researching the book, uncovers the deep connections between Bob Jones University and white supremacist ideology, including ties to the Ku Klux Klan. The conversation spans Lewis's personal journey through fundamental
Shame-Sex Attraction with Dr. Lucas Wilson
In this episode, Dr. Lucas Wilson shares his personal journey and academic exploration of Holocaust studies and conversion therapy. He discusses his experiences growing up, his struggle with faith and sexuality, and his in-depth research on the intergenerational transmission of trauma. Dr. Wilson also provides a detailed account of his time at Liberty University, his attempts to change his sexual
BONUS PREVIEW: Navigating Negative Self-Talk pt. 1
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein addresses the pervasive issue of negative self-talk among cult survivors. She explains how cults and controlling relationships instill an internal critic in members, leading to persistent se
Misinformed Minds with Matthew Facciani
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein sits down with Matthew Facciani, a researcher at the University of Notre Dame whose work focuses on misinformation, media literacy, social networks, and political polarization. Matthew discusses the reasons why people fall for misinformation, how identities and networks influence our belief systems, and the importance of critical media literacy. He also shares ins
The Truth About Trump with Steven Hassan, Ph.D.
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein sits down with cult expert Steven Hassan for a personal and eye‑opening conversation about how cults work, why people get drawn into them, and how those same dynamics show up in today’s political and social landscape. Steven opens up about his own recruitment into the Moonies, the difficult process of leaving, and how that experience shaped his decades of work hel
BONUS PREVIEW: The Digital Guru: Exploring the Danger of AI
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein discusses the potential dangers of relying too heavily on artificial intelligence (AI) as a digital guru. She talks about how AI can manipulate psychological vulnerabilities, leading to iden
Bias, Belief, and Behavior with Davis Carbo
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein talks with Davis Carbo, the creator of the Unbiased Series and an expert in cognitive biases. Carbo shares his journey toward understanding the human mind and discusses various cognitive biases that influence decision-making and perception. They touch on concepts such as the framing effect, halo and horn effect, the illusion of control, and the bandwagon effe
Re-Mothering with Pamela Jackson LCSW (Re-Release)
In this re-release episode, Rachel introduces Pamela Jackson, a licensed clinical social worker, creative nonfiction writer, and mother. Pamela delves into her past involvement with the International Church of Christ (ICOC), the impact of her mother's narcissism, and the death of her father. She shares her journey of trying to mend her relationship with her mother through structured conversati
Shining Light On A Dark World with Sochil Martin (Re-Release)
In this re-release episode, Rachel interviews Sochil Martin, a Mexican-American survivor of the high-control religious group, La Luz del Mundo (LDM). Sochil shares her harrowing experiences of being groomed and abused by the cult's leaders, including being taken as a concubine at a young age. She recounts the deep psychological and physical manipulations she endured and the journey to escape t
Unlocked Bonus: Bridging Divides During the Holidays
In this unlocked bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein explores strategies for engaging in meaningful and respectful conversations during the holidays. Key concepts discussed include cognitive dissonance, setting boundaries, active listening, and the impact of echo chambers and misinformation. Practical advice is provided on how to maintain healthy discussions and manage emotional well-being during pote
BONUS PREVIEW: The Dark Side of Kundalini Yoga
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this exclusive Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein discusses the documentary 'Breath of Fire,' which explores the controversial Kundalini Yoga empire founded by Yogi Bhajan and later led by Guru Jagat. Directed by Hayley P
Manipulation and the Manosphere with Francisco González Espejito
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein is joined by Francisco González Espejito, a psychologist, lecturer, and researcher at the Autonomous University of Madrid. Francisco discusses his background in studying abuse and violence across various contexts, the influence of coercive control, and the rise of digital environments like the manosphere. They explore how pseudo-therapeutic groups manipulate
The Girl with the Duck Tattoo with Sarma Melngailis
In this episode, Sarma Melngailis discusses her journey from running a successful New York-based restaurant to being in a highly publicized scandal. Sarma shares her personal experiences of manipulation and betrayal by a coercive partner, reflecting on how her story was misrepresented in the Netflix docuseries 'Bad Vegan.' She opens up about the challenges of reclaiming her narrative throu
BONUS PREVIEW: Attachment Styles and Cult Dynamics pt. 2
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon exclusive bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein continues the discussion on attachment and attachment issues, focusing on common challenges faced by survivors of mistreatment, abandonment, and betrayal. The episode highlights be
I Felt the End Before It Came with Daniel Allen Cox
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Daniel Allen Cox, author of 'I Felt The End Before It Came: Memoirs of a Queer Ex-Jehovah's Witness.' Daniel shares his experiences growing up as a JW, the strict moral code, and the challenges he faced as a queer individual. He discusses the process of leaving the faith, the lack of support, and the journey towards self-acceptance and rebui
Recognizing Reality: Surviving a Buddhist Cult with Rachel Montgomery
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Rachel Montgomery, who recounts her harrowing journey as a survivor of a cult and sexual abuse within a Buddhist community. She describes how she was drawn into the group, the manipulative practices of the leader, and the emotional and psychological challenges she faced. She details the abuse she suffered under the guise of spiritual teachings, the deva
BONUS PREVIEW: Attachment Styles and Cult Dynamics pt. 1
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination This Patreon exclusive episode informs on the topic of attachment styles, particularly focusing on how cults and controlling relationships undermine healthy attachment. Rachel Bernstein examines different attachment styles: secure, anxiou
Seeking Justice: Consent and Coercion with Carol Merchasin
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Carol Merchasin, a lawyer specializing in cases involving sexual misconduct in religious and spiritual communities. Carol discusses various aspects of legal battles against high-control groups, including the complexities of consent, the limitations of the legal system, and the role of psychological coercion. She highlights the differences between
The Complexity of Cult Recovery with Dr. Natalie Fabert
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein talks with Dr. Natalie Fabert, an Associate Teaching Professor at Arizona State University and a licensed psychologist specializing in trauma and abuse, particularly cultic abuse. Natalie announces her collaboration with Dr. Janja Lalich and the Lalich Center on an online continuing education course designed for mental health clinicians to effectively support
BONUS PREVIEW: When the Cult Leader Is Attacked
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon exclusive episode, Rachel Bernstein explores the psychological and social dynamics that unfold when a cult leader is attacked or faced with accusations. The episode covers the common defensive responses from followers, suc
Confronting Coercive Control with Dr. Christine Cocchiola
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Dr. Christine Cocchiola, an expert on coercive control, a social work professor, and developer of the Protective Parenting Program. Dr. Cocchiola shares her personal and professional experiences dealing with coercive control in familial and intimate relationships. Discussion topics include manipulation dynamics, cultural conditioning, the challeng
Redefining Recovery: Addiction Myths with Mark Scheeren
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein sits down with Mark Scheeren, co-founder of the Baldwin Research Institute and co-author of 'The Freedom Model for Addictions.' Mark shares his personal journey through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and his subsequent realization of the program's flaws. He discusses the creation of the Freedom Model, a non-12-step recovery approach, which focuses on a
BONUS PREVIEW: Relationships After Cultic Involvement
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon exclusive episode, Rachel Bernstein discusses the challenges faced by former cult members and individuals who have been in manipulative relationships. Key topics include recognizing healthy relationships, understanding the
If Scientology Ruled the World pt. 2 with Jon Atack
In this episode, we continue exploring Jon Atack’s latest work, "If Scientology Ruled the World: Nazi Occultists, Sex Magick, Space Aliens, and the Second Coming."In our previous episode with Jon, we began unpacking the intricate web of beliefs that form the foundation of Scientology. Today, we'll go even deeper, examining the historical connections between Scientology and other esoter
If Scientology Ruled the World pt. 1 with Jon Atack
In this episode, we're diving into Jon Atack’s new book "If Scientology Ruled the World: Nazi Occultists, Sex Magick, Space Aliens, and the Second Coming" - an exploration that connects the dots between various authoritarian movements, their shared origins, and the psychological dynamics at play.Jon spent nine years as a member of Scientology before becoming one of its most informed cr
BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Exploring Identity After a Cult
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this Patreon-exclusive bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein discusses the challenges of rediscovering one's identity after leaving a cult or a controlling relationship. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, defining p
Discipline and Duty: Teen Mania Ministries with Timothy Heffelbower
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein welcomes Timothy Heffelbower to discuss his experiences with Teen Mania Ministries and the Honor Academy. Timothy shares his journey from being heavily involved in the organization to the challenges and realizations he faced after leaving. They touch on the pressures of maintaining strict schedules, the emphasis on sacrifice and delayed gratification, and the impa
Unveiling the Truth: Surviving Scientology with Pamela Nickel Williams
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein welcomes back Pamela Nickel Williams, an educator and author who was born into Scientology. Pamela revisits her life story, from her parents' involvement with L. Ron Hubbard in the late 1950s to her own harrowing experiences within the church. She discusses her memoir, 'Clearly Lies Are True,' which chronicles her journey as a cult and sexual abus
BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: The Watchful Eye: Living Under Surveillance pt. 2
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrinationIn the continuation of this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein delves into the devastating impact of surveillance on mental health, self-esteem, and personal relationships. The discussion highlights the psychological stress, paranoia,
The Dirt Beneath Our Door with Pamela Jones
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Pamela Jones, who shares her remarkable journey from a polygamist cult to a life of freedom and self-discovery. Pamela 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 father’s 57 biological children and 2nd of her mother’s thirteen children,
Marketing and Manipulation with Dr. Mara Einstein
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein welcomes Dr. Mara Einstein to explore the pervasive influence of marketing strategies and their parallels with cult tactics. They share personal anecdotes and experiences, discuss the recruitment and indoctrination processes of cults and MLMs, and delve into the psychology behind marketing and brand communities. The conversation also touches upon how digital techn
BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: The Watchful Eye: Living Under Surveillance pt. 1
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrinationIn this Patreon exclusive bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein delves into the concept of the 'watchful eye' and the chilling effects of surveillance on personal autonomy. Discussing how awareness of being watched can deter individuals
Exposing the 2x2 Church pt. 2 with Kyle and Kari Hanks
Kyle and Kari Hanks left the 2x2 church during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside last week’s guests, Mike and Abbi Prussack, they launched a Facebook support group for former members in early 2022. In March 2023, they publicly released a leaked letter detailing abuse by a former overseer. The letter triggered a wave of disclosures, as thousands of survivors came forward to share their stories. The
Are Political Parties Just Cults? - Meredith for Real - FEED DROP
In this special feed drop episode, Rachel Bernstein shares her insightful interview from 'Meredith for Real.' The discussion delves into the dynamics of politics and cults, examining the psychological vulnerabilities that make people susceptible to political cults, the role of media manipulation and thought-stopping cliches, and the fusion of politics and religion. Rachel provides practica
Exposing the 2x2 Church pt. 1 with Mike and Abbi Prussack
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Mike and Abbi Prussack, who left the 2x2 church after a faith crisis. They discuss the challenges of leaving and uncovering widespread sexual abuse within the church, catalyzed by a leaked letter in 2023. The couple, along with their friends Kyle and Kari, started a support group for survivors and have been documenting abuse claims. They shed ligh
BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Long-Term Recovery from a Cult pt. 2
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In the continuation of this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein delves into the topic of long-term recovery and cognitive distortions experienced by former cult members. The episode covers various forms of cognitive distortions such a
Hell Bent with Brian Recker
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Brian Recker, a former evangelical pastor who has transitioned away from fundamentalist beliefs. Brian discusses his journey of self-discovery and deconstruction from the religion that defined his upbringing. The conversation covers his early life, the impact of fundamentalist teachings, and the transition to more inclusive spirituality. Brian sha
AUM: The Cult at the End of the World with Chiaki Yanagimoto
In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein introduces Chiaki Yanagimoto, a prominent Japanese-born filmmaker based in LA, known for her work in documentaries and independent cinema. In their conversation, Chiaki discusses her documentary 'AUM: The Cult at the End of the World,' exploring the catastrophic impact of the Aum Shinrikyo cult and its leader Shoko Asahara on Japanese society. She del
BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Long-Term Recovery from a Cult pt. 1
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination This Patreon exclusive bonus episode focuses on the intricate and multifaceted journey of recovering from cultic experiences. Rachel Bernstein addresses questions about the timeline for recovery and emphasizes that it varies greatly among
Forager: Field Notes for Surviving a Family Cult with Michelle Dowd
In this episode of IndoctriNation, host Rachel Bernstein talks with Michelle Dowd, author of 'Forager: Field Notes for Surviving a Family Cult.’ Michelle recounts her upbringing in an apocalyptic cult led by her grandfather, her struggles with an autoimmune disease, and her eventual escape and journey to independence. Through these experiences, Michelle examines the intense psychological chall
From Wellness to Warnings with Hayley Krischer
In this episode, Rachel Bernstein discusses the intricacies and potential dangers of the wellness industry with Hayley Krischer, an award-winning journalist and author. They dive deep into topics such as evaluating safe therapy, recognizing red flags in mental health care, and Hayley’s latest YA book, 'You Belong to Me,' which explores the influence of cult-like wellness companies. She sha
BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Navigating the Digital Abyss: Online Cults pt. 2
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrinationIn this continuation of our Patreon exclusive bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein delves into the disturbing world of online cults and their sophisticated mechanisms of coercion and exploitation. The discussion highlights the psychological man
Religious Reality: Inside the World of Jehovah’s Witnesses with Lara Kaput
In this insightful episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Lara Kaput, a whistleblower and former Jehovah's Witness. Lara shares her journey from being born into the Jehovah's Witnesses to leaving at 19 and becoming an advocate for survivors of abuse within the organization. She discusses the emotional, psychological, and financial toll of being a whistleblower, including the lack of governme
Unmasking Narcissism: The Hidden Truths of Manipulation with Dr. Peter Salerno
In this enlightening episode, Rachel welcomes back Dr. Peter Salerno, a trauma specialist and award-winning author, for a deep dive into the complexities of narcissism and its manifestations in both children and adults. Building on their previous conversation, they explore the intricacies of identifying narcissistic traits at a young age and the implications of these behaviors on personal developm
BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Navigating the Digital Abyss: Online Cults pt.1
This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrinationIn this eye-opening bonus episode, we dive into the alarming world of online cults and their insidious methods of targeting vulnerable children. As the digital age evolves, so do the tactics of manipulation and control, making it crucial f
Twin Flames: From Love Bombing to Liberation with Jessi Hersey
In this powerful episode, Rachel welcomes Jessi Hersey, a courageous author and cult survivor, to share her transformative journey from the Twin Flames Universe cult. Jessi opens up about her experiences within the group, detailing the emotional manipulation and love bombing that initially drew her in, only to later reveal the toxic underbelly of the organization. Her candid reflections on the mir
Reclaiming Agency: Insights on Religious Trauma and Control with Nikki G
In this thought-provoking episode, Rachel welcomes back Nikki G, a certified trauma recovery coach and advocate for survivors of religious trauma and cult involvement. Together, they delve into the alarming rise of Project 2025 and its implications for personal agency, societal control, and the fabric of democracy in America. Nikki shares her insights as a survivor of multiple cults, emphasizing t
