Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade SUPERFLY #19 - Cults, drugs, and p$rn
Jun 7, 2024
Former NXIVM member Sarah Edmonson joins for a deep dive into cult dynamics and manipulative tactics. They explore her experiences within the cult, discussing manipulation tactics like attachment issues and codependency. The conversation also delves into cult-like dynamics seen in various organizations, highlighting parallels to abusive relationships and the intense repercussions faced by individuals trying to navigate their way out of such groups.
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Self-Help Language Masked Coercion
- Sarah Edmondson describes NXIVM as a self-help community that repackaged CBT, NLP, and Buddhism into a persuasive “technology.”
- That polished therapeutic language masked coercive tactics and normalized 12–14 hour therapy-like routines.
Recruiting Friends Deepened Involvement
- Sarah recruited half of her acting group into NXIVM and lost contact with others for a decade.
- Bringing friends in deepened her involvement and later complicated her exit.
Promise Of Purpose As The Hook
- The initial hook for many was a charismatic connector promising meaningful, consciousness-shifting media or purpose.
- That promise exploited career and identity vulnerabilities, especially in creatives.