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 light on the darker aspects of cult life and the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma. In this conversation, Vanessa Wilde shares her tumultuous journey growing up in the Hare Krishna movement, detailing her experiences of rebellion, control, and eventual escape from the cult. She reflects on her childhood, the challenges of navigating the real world after leaving, and the healing process that followed. Vanessa discusses her relationship with her parents, the impact of their decisions, and her current spiritual beliefs, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and personal sovereignty.

takeaways

• Vanessa was separated from her parents at a young age.
• The Hare Krishna movement promoted family separation as a virtue.
• Gurukul schools were intended to focus children on devotion to God.
• Many children experienced severe abuse in these schools.
• The indoctrination included harmful gender roles and subservience.
• Vanessa became defiant and protective of her younger brother.
• She organized a group of girls to plan their escape.
• Public images of the Hare Krishna movement often masked the abuse.

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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 Pascal, 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 role of women in the cult, and the neglect and abuse that occurred. The conversation highlights the complexities of cult life and the long-lasting effects on survivors. In this conversation, Jeremy shares his harrowing experiences growing up in a cult, detailing the kindness he encountered amidst chaos, the false promises of a better life, and the severe punishments inflicted on children. He recounts the traumatic events leading to a police raid that rescued him and other children, his subsequent life in foster care, and the challenges of navigating life after such trauma. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of kindness and resilience, offering advice to those still trapped in similar situations.

takeaways

• Jeremy was born into the cult and has early memories from age three.
• The cult leader, Ariel Ben Sherman, preached that only their group would ascend to heaven.
• Living conditions included extreme punishments and neglect.
• The cult leader lived a lavish lifestyle funded by the followers' hard work.
• Jeremy's mother was expelled from the cult, leading to significant trauma.
• The cult employed tactics to isolate members from their families.
• There were instances of child abuse and neglect within the cult.

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#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 navigating life after leaving the faith. He reflects on the role of the Governing Body in the Jehovah's Witnesses and the lasting effects of his upbringing on his relationships and self-worth. In this conversation, Tim shares his journey from a troubled youth involved in petty crimes and substance abuse to a path of recovery and self-discovery. He discusses the impact of his upbringing in a Jehovah's Witness community, his struggles with relationships and parenting, and the challenges of navigating mental health issues, including autism and agoraphobia. Tim reflects on his entrepreneurial spirit, career evolution, and the importance of therapy in understanding his past and building a better future. He emphasizes the need for critical thinking and personal growth, particularly for those who have experienced cult-like environments.

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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 recounts his experiences with relationships, the final straw that led him to leave the cult, and his subsequent journey towards healing and personal growth. In this conversation, Brandon shares his profound journey through grief and loss following the deaths of his father and mother, both of whom died by suicide. He reflects on the impact of these tragedies on his life and the complexities of family dynamics, particularly in relation to mental health issues. Brandon discusses his experiences with the House of Yahweh, the challenges of critical thinking within such environments, and the importance of honesty in personal growth. He also emphasizes the value of community and support for those who have left high-control groups, and he offers insights into defining faith beyond organized religion.

takeaways

• Brandon was born in Michigan in 1985 and faced early family turmoil.
• His father introduced him to the House of Yahweh after a divorce.
• Brandon experienced indoctrination and strict rules within the cult.
• He had a longing to live with his father despite custody struggles.
• The cult's rules became increasingly strict, especially regarding women.
• Brandon's relationships were heavily controlled by the cult's elders.
• He left the cult at 18 after a significant confrontation.
• Brandon struggled with depression and anxiety after leaving the cult.
• He aimed to tell his story fairly, without placing blame.

A Link to Brandon's Book

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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 the impact of COVID-19 on her faith and how it ultimately led to her awakening and questioning the beliefs she had held for so long. Her story highlights the struggles of breaking free from a controlling environment and the challenges faced by those who leave such groups. In this conversation, Elisa Flores shares her journey of awakening from the La Luz del Mundo cult, detailing her experiences of manipulation, control, and the eventual realization of the truth about her upbringing. She discusses the impact of her family's dynamics, the critical thinking that led her to question her beliefs, and her path to finding her identity outside of the cult. Elisa emphasizes the importance of freedom, self-love, and the need for support for those leaving high-control groups. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and advocacy for others who may be struggling with similar experiences.

takeaways

• Elisa spent 46 years in La Luz del Mundo, a high-control religious group.
• The cult systematically silenced women and stripped them of their voices.
• Obedience was seen as a blessing, leading to unquestioning loyalty.
• During COVID-19, the cult's control extended into members' homes.
• Elisa's awakening began when she started questioning the cult's teachings.
• The ministers had no formal training but held significant power over members.

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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 also explores the power of language in shaping identity, a humorous yet poignant story about an exorcism and a name change, and the ongoing journey of healing and spirituality. Each participant shares insights on overcoming adversity, finding stability, and offering advice to those still trapped in similar situations.

Takeaways

• Reintegration into society can take years and requires support.
• Family dynamics can shift dramatically after leaving a cult.
• Experiences of exorcism and name changes highlight the absurdity of cult practices.
• Sharing stories can be therapeutic and help others feel less alone.
• The journey to self-acceptance and understanding can be long and challenging. The cult viewed normal childhood behavior as demonic.
• Different treatment was given to children based on parental dynamics.
• Leaving the cult was more challenging than life within it.
• Exorcisms were not as traumatic as depicted in media.
• Language played a crucial role in their upbringing and identity.
• Post-cult life involved significant adaptation and challenges.
• Family dynamics continued to be influenced by cult beliefs after leaving.
• Questioning beliefs is essential for personal growth.
• Spirituality can exist outside of organized religion.
• Healing is a continuous journey after leaving a cult.

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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 share their protective roles within the cult, the shocking revelations they encountered after leaving, and the complexities of growing up in such an environment. This discussion sheds light on the internal justice system of the cult and how childhood experiences shaped their identities.

takeaways

• The Children of God cult was founded in the 1960s by David Berg.
• Survivors experienced extreme control and exploitation within the cult.
• Isolation from mainstream society was a key tactic used by the cult.
• The cult employed flirty fishing to recruit new members and gain donations.
• Children were often unaware of the extent of their isolation until they left the cult.
• The siblings felt a strong responsibility to protect each other from harm.
• The cult used fear and manipulation to maintain control over its members.
• Many survivors faced emotional trauma and challenges after leaving the cult.
• The cult's teachings often contradicted their actions, leading to confusion among members.
• Survivors are now sharing their stories to raise awareness and promote healing. Cults often handle internal issues without involving law enforcement.
• Leaving a cult can lead to significant family upheaval and trauma.
• Therapy plays a crucial role in healing from cult experiences.

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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 conversation delves into Eskel's childhood experiences, the normalization of polygamy, and the dynamics of power and control within the group, ultimately highlighting the importance of awareness and support for survivors. In this conversation, Eskel shares his experiences growing up in a polygamous cult, detailing his teenage years, family dynamics, and the challenges of leaving the group. He discusses the complexities of polygamy and incest within the cult, the role of law enforcement, and the emotional journey of leaving behind family and friends. Eskel also reflects on his life after leaving, including his current beliefs and advice for those still within the cult.

takeaways

• Eskel emphasizes the importance of making the most of one's current situation.
• The Kingston Clan operates with a high level of secrecy and control.
• Polygamy is deeply ingrained in the culture of the Kingston Clan.
• Law enforcement faces challenges in prosecuting polygamous groups due to victim manipulation.
• Eskel's mother joined the Order through marriage, not by birth.
• The Order views women as a form of currency within their community.

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