In a conversation with Stella O'Malley, founder and director of Genspect, Andrew Gold @andrewgoldheretics explores why people—even very intelligent ones—are drawn to cult-like beliefs. He shares stories from his investigative work, including his study of exorcisms in Argentina, and connects these experiences to how modern groups can sometimes take on cult-like behaviors. He discusses how social pressures and rituals influence why people stay in these groups, even when it might be harmful.

Through his work with former cult members, Andrew explains the challenges of leaving these intense belief systems and the importance of questioning groupthink in our lives.

Andrew Gold is a British journalist, author, and YouTuber known for his investigative work on cults and extreme ideologies. Fluent in five languages, he has produced and presented documentaries for the BBC and HBO, including the acclaimed 2018 BBC documentary Exorcism: The Battle for Young Minds, featured in BBC Three's Best of 2018 list. In June 2020, he launched the podcast On the Edge with Andrew Gold, highlighted in Apple’s New and Noteworthy section. Gold also hosts the YouTube channel heretics., where he interviews people who challenge conventional wisdom and groupthink. His first book, The Psychology of Secrets: My Adventures with Murderers, Cults, and Influencers, explores the psychology of secrecy and is available on Amazon.

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