Worklife with Adam Grant Is your organization a little culty? with NXIVM whistleblower Sarah Edmondson
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Feb 27, 2024 
Sarah Edmondson, a NXIVM whistleblower and host of A Little Bit Culty, brings her unique insights on the disturbing world of cult-like organizations. She shares her cautionary tale about the dark charisma that can draw people in. The discussion reveals red flags of manipulation and emphasizes the importance of loyalty to principles over people. Sarah also reflects on her experiences as a recruiter, exposing how charisma can be weaponized and the need for authenticity in relations. With humor and clarity, she sheds light on the psychology behind high-demand groups.
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NXIVM Deception
- Sarah Edmondson joined NXIVM in 2005, believing it to be a personal development program.
- It later turned out to be a racketeering enterprise involving sex trafficking and abuse.
Cult Potential
- Any group with a hierarchy can become culty due to potential power abuse.
- Questioning leadership and practices is crucial, even in seemingly benign settings.
Group Evaluation
- Evaluate groups by their tolerance for dissent and questions.
- Leaving should be possible without shunning; if not, that's a red flag.
