Blown for Good: Scientology Exposed

Send us a textOn the 19th anniversary of my own flight from Scientology, my wife Claire joins me to share her harrowing tale of escape, a saga of defiance and cunning woven amidst the stifling grip of the organization. With the passing of L. Ron Hubbard echoing in the background, we unravel the threads of a meticulously crafted exit plan, where every covert phone call and secret suitcase packed was a step towards liberty. Claire's story is not just one of escape, but a revelation of the raw power dynamics and the choking surveillance that once dictated our lives within the group's international base.As Claire and I dissect the events leading to her audacious break for freedom, it's a narrative that grips you with its intensity. Imagine the adrenaline of navigating a Walmart to meet a secret cab ride arranged through a torn-out phone book page, or sitting at a bus station, guarding your belongings against high-ranking members determined to drag you back. The episode lays bare the strategies and manipulations employed by Scientology, painting a vivid picture of the lengths one must go to evade the clutches of such an organization. Claire’s encounter with Greg Wilhere and Sharon Johnston, known for their imposing presence within the group, epitomizes the confrontation between personal will and institutional control.The podcast culminates with a poignant reflection on the aftermath of escape and the challenges of starting anew. The emotional turmoil of adjusting to a world of strangers, the strategies to prevent abduction, and the cathartic act of preparing a meal together are all steps on the journey towards healing. Claire's and my conversation is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring quest for freedom. It's a raw look at the emotional landscape one traverses when leaving behind a life of control, and an inspiring story of the new beginnings that lie ahead.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textScientology Stories #36 - Celebrating Victory and Exposing Celebrity Allure: A Deep Dive into Scientology's Star-Powered Influence w/ Special Guests Mike Rinder & Leah Remini. Celebrating resilience, today's episode resonates with personal victory as Mike marks a stable phase in his cancer journey, buoyed by modern medicine and your incredible support. Our hearts are full as we also cheer on Mark Bunker, endorsed by the Clearwater Police Department, signaling a seismic shift in the city's stance towards Scientology. With Leah and Claire by Mike's side, we unfold a story of community activism and the unyielding fight for a Scientology-free Clearwater, reflecting on our hopes for the future.As our conversation turns toward the glittering world of Scientology's celebrity orbit, we revisit the high-profile wedding of Tom Cruise and the church's magnetism for A-listers. We offer an intimate glimpse into the peculiar ways Scientology woos its stars, from the careful choreography of Cruise's events to the finesse in courting celebrities like Jim Carrey. The chapter on celebrity obsession is an eye-opener, sharing tales from within the church's walls and the ironies of disconnection and truth manipulation.We wrap up with a behind-the-scenes look at the lengths Scientology goes to pamper its prized members, from private safaris to commandeered dining experiences for the likes of the Smiths and Beckhams. The conversation doesn't shy away from exposing Scientology's veneer of bustling facilities and the impact of its influence on Cruise's personal life. By journeying through these stories, we shed light on the entangled web of celebrity, control, and the remarkable courage of those who have stepped away from the church's embrace. Join us for a powerful exploration of the intricate dance between fame and the machinations of Scientology.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textEmbark on an emotional voyage with us as we commemorate the late Ron Moss and his intricate ties with Ron Miscavige Sr., against the backdrop of Scientology's storied existence. We'll share intimate accounts from fans worldwide, the poignant and stormy bond between Moss and Chick Corea, and the unexpected ways financial hardship can entangle lives. We'll also discuss Elizabeth Moss's continued support for Scientology amidst her family's struggles, juxtaposed with her role in 'The Handmaid's Tale,' inviting reflection on Hollywood's complex responsibilities.Venture through the lesser-known interplay of fame and Scientology, where personal and professional spheres overlap, and music becomes both a bridge and a barrier. You won't want to miss our musings on the quirkier side of life, from impromptu event management to the Aftermath Foundation's role in helping those seeking to leave Scientology's grasp.Finally, we tackle the pressing challenges facing Scientology in the era of social media, evaluating their responses to TikTok protests and the role of music in shaping public perception. With anecdotes that span the eccentric to the enlightening, this episode is a patchwork of stories bound by the common threads of community and resilience. Join us in celebrating our latest giveaway winners, and stay tuned for more thought-provoking discussions that promise to engage and inform our dedicated listeners.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textCould the key to unraveling one of the most baffling puzzles of the modern era lie hidden within the secluded compounds of the Church of Scientology? Join my husband, Marc, and me as we follow the breadcrumbs leading to Shelly Miscavige's disappearance – an enigma that has captivated and confounded the world since 2005. Explore with us the clandestine corners of the church's operations, from the alleged Twin Peaks holding site to the remote reaches of Petrolia, California, as we dissect the church's tactics of information control and person management. With the help of Google Earth, we scrutinize the geographic isolation that seems to be a strategic choice for Scientology's most secret bases, and we ponder the chilling implications of such an existence for someone like Shelly Miscavige.This episode pulls back the curtain on Scientology's carefully constructed facade, revealing a pattern of obfuscation apparent in high-profile cases like that of Danny Masterson and Lisa McPherson. Our conversation takes an unexpected turn when our own son's voter registration throws a spotlight on the opaque inner workings of the institution. We connect dots that might otherwise go unnoticed, from enigmatic symbols visible only from the sky to the controversial decision to build near fault lines. This is not just an investigation into the whereabouts of a missing person; it's an eye-opening journey into the heart of an organization that goes to great lengths to protect its secrets and its members – willingly or not.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textStrap in for an extraordinary revelation as former Scientology insiders Marc & Claire Headley, Mark Fisher, and Janis Gillman Grady join us to unravel the enigma that is the Church's leadership. Their stories transport us deep into the world of L. Ron Hubbard and David Miscavige, juxtaposing Hubbard's peculiar idiosyncrasies with Miscavige's unchecked indulgence. The preservation of Hubbard's quarters, a time capsule of his existence, contrasts starkly with Miscavige's taste for opulence, from his fleet of luxury vehicles to his custom bulletproof van. Through vivid recollections, our guests peel back the layers of secrecy to expose the inner workings of one of the most elusive organizations.Our conversation steers through the choppy waters of Scientology's past, navigating through tales of overboarding at sea and the eerie calm of Hubbard's living arrangements amidst public scrutiny. Claire Headley sheds light on the financial labyrinth that is the Religious Technology Center, giving us a glimpse of the golden handcuffs that lock the higher-ups in their gilded cages. Meanwhile, anecdotes about Miscavige's personal staff and their hyper-vigilant service paint a picture of a man whose authority is as much a construct of fear as it is of reverence.Closing the lid on this Pandora's box of eye-opening narratives, we probe the strategic maneuverings that propelled Miscavige to the pinnacle of power within Scientology. From his early setbacks to his final domination, his rise is a testament to the undercurrents of coercion and control within the organization. We leave no stone unturned, exposing the seismic cultural shifts from the era of Hubbard to the age of Miscavige. Join us for this unmissable episode, where the truth isn't just stranger than fiction—it's more harrowing.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textEmbark with us on a voyage into the heart of Scientology's most guarded secrets, as Claire Headley joins me to unravel the mysteries of the Operating Thetan levels. Claire's firsthand experiences from the Sea Organization's nerve center provide a stark contrast to my own journey, which took shape after stepping away from the church. Together, we examine the mental acrobatics demanded by the church's upper echelons and navigate the complex road to liberation from its clutches, all while expressing gratitude to our diverse international audience for their unwavering engagement.This episode charts the trajectory of Scientology's evolution, from its book-centric recruitment strategies of the 1960s to today's focus on imposing structures and property acquisition. We dissect the highly clandestine upper levels of the Bridge to Total Freedom, scrutinizing the church's elusive promises and addressing the dramatic shift in focus following L. Ron Hubbard's death. Our discussion delves into the world of solo auditing, confronting the extensive whole track history, and critically analyzes the doctrine's foundations, including the notorious OT III level's galactic overlord Xenu narrative.Witness the unraveling of Scientology's opaque curtain as we explore the upper OT levels, addressing the skepticism that surrounds the practices and promises of OT powers. Claire's insights offer an invaluable glimpse into the disillusionment that many members experience upon discovering that the supernatural abilities touted by the church fail to materialize. Despite the organization's emphasis on material success as a measure of expansion, our conversation sheds light on the consequences of the organization's unfulfilled promises and the inner workings behind the believers' quest for spiritual freedom. Join us as we provide a forthright and critical perspective on the complexities and skepticism inherent in the Scientology belief system.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textEmbark on a journey of transformation and discovery with Sasha Zbitnoff, who peels back the curtain on his life-altering transition from Scientology to enlightenment. Our dialogue takes a deep dive into his pivotal collaboration with Steven Hassan and his enlightening educational presentations for psychiatrists. Sasha's candid storytelling offers a treasure trove of insights, contrasting the doctrinal practices of his past with the therapeutic benefits he discovered in psychiatric counseling. His reflections illustrate the profound shifts that can occur when we bravely step away from the familiar and confront our deeply-held beliefs.Have you ever wandered through the physical and metaphorical corridors of the Scientology landscape? Sasha guides us through the famous LA complex and Celebrity Center, recounting his life's timeline within the community, and sharing experiences that resonate with former members. As we explore the practices of auditing and the elusive quest for 'clear' status, Sasha draws parallels and distinctions between Scientology and psychiatric methodologies. His narrative is rich with personal anecdotes, offering a glimpse into the heart of Scientology and the redemptive power of questioning and seeking truth.Witness Sasha's remarkable evolution as he discusses his journey from staunch opposition to psychiatric drugs to an unexpected career in the biotech industry. Confronting his past prejudices, he embraces a newfound appreciation for psychiatric medication's role in mental health. His powerful story of growth and change serves as a beacon for those grappling with their preconceptions. Moreover, Sasha's compassionate insights into engaging with Scientologists from a mental health professional's viewpoint provide a roadmap for fostering constructive dialogue and supporting individuals in their quests for freedom and understanding. Join us for this compelling account of personal revelation and the continuous pursuit of knowledge.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textEmbark with us on an eye-opening exploration of Scientology's clandestine world, as we're joined by Mitch Brisker for an episode that promises to unravel the mysteries of a music video that's sparked as much debate as it has intrigue. We're pulling back the curtain on the financial and power structures weaving through the church, from Norman Starkey's influential role to David Miscavige's climb up through Author Services Inc. Witness the contrast between the opulence of ASI and the stark lives of Sea Org members, and let's dissect the monetary currents that flow through this enigmatic organization.Cruise down the vibrant streets of Hollywood where the Scientology empire stakes its claim, from the Celebrity Center to the lesser-known corners where power plays out of the public eye. We're sharing our tales from the trenches of media production within the church, including the quirks of working with Hollywood animals and the logistical acrobatics of guerrilla-style filming. Experience our behind-the-scenes stories that paint a vivid picture of the church's long-standing—and sometimes peculiar—involvement in Tinseltown's entertainment sector.Celebrate the unyielding spirit of activism in our final act, as we reflect on L. Ron Hubbard's cultural exploits and the evolution of protest against the church. From the lasting impact of Hubbard's creative works to the burgeoning wave of citizen activism, we marvel at the audacity of those who've stood toe-to-toe with a Goliath. This isn't just a narrative about Scientology's shadowy reach—it's an homage to the power of individual voices championing justice and truth in the face of silence.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textWhen the foundations of your world are shaken by the hard truths of a life once lived under the stringent control of the Church of Scientology, where do you find the strength to speak out? Jon, a tech expert and former Scientologist, joins me, Claire Headley, to unravel his deeply personal history within this enigmatic organization. Our conversation is a tapestry of courage and vulnerability, exploring the disconnection policy's impact on Jon's family ties, his formative years at St Hill and Greenfields School, and the psychological warfare he endured.Venturing into the heart of Scientology's paradoxical nature, we confront the harsh realities that lurk beneath the surface of its self-proclaimed ecclesiastical veneer. Jon recounts the chilling 'Fair Game' policy and the manipulation he witnessed under the guise of religious training, while we dissect the broader implications of compliance without question - a stark reminder of the perils of absolute obedience to any authority. Together, we peel back the layers, exposing the damage inflicted upon the human spirit by systems of control masquerading as sanctuaries of faith.The human yearning for freedom often leads to extraordinary measures, and it's within these tales of escape that the resilience of the spirit truly shines. We share gripping narratives, from my own involvement in aiding a couple's clandestine departure to Jon's strategic evasion of the ever-vigilant security teams, each tale echoing the tumultuous journey from oppression to autonomy. With poignant reflections on lost bonds and the long road to recovery, this episode stands as a testament to those who dare to reclaim their lives from the clutches of high-control groups.Books by Jon Atack:Let’s sell these people A Piece of Blue Skyhttps://www.amazon.com/Lets-sell-these-people-Piece-ebook/dp/B00BF385HG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2OJKHFAAEY6RD&keywords=jon+atack&qid=1704745333&sprefix=jon+atack%2Caps%2C129&sr=8-1  Scientology: The Cult of Greedhttps://www.amazon.com/Scientology-Cult-Greed-Jon-Atack-ebook/dp/B00QVDPM62/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2OJKHFAAEY6RD&keywords=jon+atack&qid=1704745333&sprefix=jon+atack%2Caps%2C129&sr=8-2 Opening Our Minds: Avoiding Abusive Relationships and ASupport the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Send us a textEvery journey has its twists and turns, but few are as deeply transformative as Sasha Zbitnoff's escape from the life he was born into, a life steeped in Scientology. Join me, Claire Headley, for a riveting conversation where Sasha bares his soul about the trials and tribulations he faced from a Scientology-affiliated upbringing to the moment of clarity that propelled him to chart a new course. His gripping account offers an inside look at the intimate yet often suffocating embrace of the church's community, challenging us to reflect on the true cost of conformity.Sasha's narrative is not just a story of leaving; it's a profound exploration of identity, belief, and the resilience of the human spirit. As he recounts the cultural veneration of L. Ron Hubbard and shares personal anecdotes from those who knew the founder, we gain a rare understanding of the sacrifices demanded by loyalty to such an organization. This episode peels back the layers of a tightly woven support system that can both uplift and oppress, offering listeners an opportunity to witness the complexities of healing and the strength required to walk away from all that's familiar.In the poignant chapters of Sasha's life, we traverse the emotional landscapes of familial rifts, the silent rules that govern belief, and the daunting task of rebuilding life outside the church's confines. True courage shines through his story, from the heartbreak of disconnection to the solace found in shared experiences of loss and hope. Tune in to hear how Sasha, against all odds, reconstructs a life of authenticity and purpose, proving that the toughest battles can lead to the most meaningful victories.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...