In this engaging discussion, journalist Fortesa Latifi shares insights from her interview with Shari Franke, the eldest daughter of a notorious former YouTuber. Shari opens up about her new memoir, highlighting her staunch belief that family video influencing should be outlawed. They dive into the dark side of family vlogging, touching on themes of familial abuse and personal freedom. The conversation also explores the ethical implications of sharing children's lives online and the cultural reflections that arise from these controversial narratives.
Shari Franke's memoir sheds light on her traumatic upbringing and the ethical dangers of family vlogging in today's digital age.
The controversial relationship between her mother Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt reveals manipulative dynamics that contributed to the family's abusive environment.
Deep dives
The Fast-Tracks of Sherry Franke's Memoir
Sherry Franke's memoir, 'The House of My Mother, A Daughter's Quest for Freedom,' highlights the rapid publication process, which is unusual in the literary world where books typically take years to develop. Sherry, the eldest daughter of Ruby Franke, addresses her tumultuous upbringing amidst the dark consequences of family vlogging. The memoir not only recounts her personal experiences but also serves as a poignant reflection on the ethical implications surrounding family influencers. Notably, the writing collaborator, Caroline Ryder, played a vital role in bringing Sherry's story to life within a remarkably short timeframe.
Ruby Franke's Family Vlogging Legacy
Ruby Franke's family vlogging channel, 'Eight Passengers,' once boasted millions of subscribers but became infamous due to charges of child abuse against her. The scandal revealed long-standing abusive dynamics within the family, presenting a façade of a perfect family life to viewers while concealing the darker realities behind the scenes. Sherry's quest for evidence of her mother's behavior was underscored by the community's willingness to assist her, as they shared incriminating moments captured in old vlogs. This exploration of vlogging highlights not only the dangers of public scrutiny but also the complete erosion of family privacy in the online age.
The Impact of Jodi Hildebrandt
Jodi Hildebrandt emerged as a controversial figure in Sherry's life, initially stepping in as a therapist for her brother before exerting significant control over the family dynamics. Sherry noted how Jodi's influence turned the family into a cult-like structure, facilitating Ruby's emotional and psychological abuse. The memoir reveals that Jodi and Ruby, despite their public condemnation of queerness, were involved in a secret romantic relationship, raising questions about their hypocritical stances. This shocking revelation emphasizes the manipulative nature of Jodi's control, as she ultimately pushed out other family members, including Sherry and her father, Kevin.
The Ethical Dilemmas of Family Vlogging
Sherry Franke's reflections on family vlogging highlight ethical dilemmas that emerge as children navigate their identities under the scrutiny of social media. She asserts that there should be no exceptions for family vloggers, advocating for the preservation of children's privacy and autonomy. Throughout her narrative, Sherry stresses that the exploitation of children for online content can have lasting psychological impacts and must come to an end. By sharing her insights and advocating for legislative change, Sherry aims to protect future generations from the invasive nature of family vlogging.
Shari Franke, the eldest daughter of former YouTuber and convicted child abuser Ruby Franke, is on the media circuit right now to promote her new memoir, "The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom." Journalist and friend of the pod Fortesa Latifi just did an exclusive interview with Shari about Rolling Stone and is here to talk about all the reveals in the book from why Shari thinks family video influencing should be fully outlawed to her mother Ruby's romantic relationship with her co-conspirator Jodi Hildebrandt.