Behind the Bastards Part One: David Berg and the Children of God (ft. Ed Helms)
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Jun 24, 2025 
Actor and comedian Ed Helms, known for his roles in 'The Office' and 'The Hangover,' joins the discussion about the dark legacy of David Berg, founder of the Children of God cult. They delve into the alarming societal blindness towards cult leaders and dissect Berg's troubled upbringing that shaped his controversial beliefs. The conversation highlights how his radical ideology blended charismatic leadership with manipulation, evolving the cult from Teens for Christ to a notorious sect. Ed's insights on the psychological dynamics of authority add depth to this chilling narrative.
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Evangelical Revival Showmanship
- Evangelical revival preachers often combined showmanship with preaching, using theatrical acts to captivate crowds.
- Berg's parents were part of this revival movement shaping his religious background.
Traumatic Childhood Shapes Berg
- David Berg grew up in a traveling preacher family with unstable upbringing and experienced sexual abuse from an early age.
- This trauma contributed to his twisted beliefs about sexuality and control in his cult.
Fabricated Military Service Claim
- Berg's claim of conscientious objector military service is unverified and likely fabricated.
- This story was probably added to boost his image during the 1950s and 60s.