A Little Bit Culty

Think cult scandal is just a modern phenomenon? Think again. In Part 2, historian Joshua Paddison unpacks America’s original sex cult, Fountain Grove—complete with group bathing, soulmate mysticism, financial abuse, and a scandal that turned “cult” from a neutral word into a headline-grabbing accusation. Josh guides us through all the weirdness: the rise and fall of Thomas Lake Harris, survivor red flags, bitter public smear campaigns, historical cover-ups, and the jaw-dropping parallels between 1890s California communes and today’s cult headlines. Plus: why California became cult central, how cult terminology shapes survivor stories, and what historians wrestle with when labeling new religious movements. This one’s got epic takedowns, wild twists, and enough historical intrigue to keep you curious for days.Be sure to nerd out on Josh’s book, Unholy Sensations: A Story of Sex, Scandal, and California's First Cult Scare.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp.Today’s guest is Joshua Paddison, a US historian, author, and bona fide expert in the wild world of American cults, spiritualist communes, and utopian experiments. Josh spent years hunting down primary sources and unearthing the surprising connections between 19th-century scandal, religious innovation, and the birth of cult culture as we know it. His tale includes international intrigue, breathwork mystics, spiritual seekers, and even sex scandals that laid the groundwork for the culty headlines we see today. If you’ve ever wondered about the OG roots of groupthink, word salad, or how the term “cult” even came to exist, buckle up—Josh is here to serve up the history lesson you never got in school, and stay tuned for more in Part 2 of our conversation.Be sure to pick up Joshua Paddison’s book, Unholy Sensations: A Story of Sex, Scandal, and California's First Cult Scare.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:This World Mental Health Day, we’re celebrating the therapists who’ve helped millions of people take a step forward. If you’re ready to find the right therapist for you, BetterHelp can help you start that journey. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/culty.Earn points on rent and around your neighborhood, wherever you call home, by going to joinbilt.com/culty.Get organized, refreshed, and ready for the holidays for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this A Little Bit Extra ep, Sarah dishes all about her recent trip to New York City—think walks on The High Line, big shroom feels, and some serious kitchen magic courtesy of Sarma Melngailis. What happens when two culty survivors share homemade meals and chat about upcoming guest Dr. Ingrid Clayton’s Fawning? You get a new club: “Fawn Stars”—and Sarah is a founding member.We also break down the latest courtroom jaw-dropper (yep, the Diddy sentence), spill on where we’re at with our forthcoming book, and it’s open mic time for listener voicemails—expect spicy takes, cathartic rants, and a few hearty laughs on the side. It’s real talk, big updates, and that signature ALBC flavor you know and love.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What’s it like to survive chaos at home, culty control next door, and a national TV spotlight that labels you “crazy cousin”—all before breakfast? In this episode, we sat down with Amy Duggar King to talk about finally telling her real story after years of reality TV, IBLP dogma, and generational trauma behind the Duggar family empire. Amy gets candid about finding her voice after childhood abuse, navigating gaslighting on and off the set, and why her memoir aims to help others break free from toxic family systems. From confronting red flags and speaking out about Shiny Happy People to choosing peace, healing, and faith on her own terms, Amy shares what it means to be a “holy disruptor” when the world wants you to keep smiling for the cameras. Check out her memoir, Holy Disruptor: Shattering the Shiny Facade by Getting Louder with the Truth.Trigger warning: This episode contains frank discussion of abuse and child pornography.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off their entire colostrum order; just head to CowboyColostrum.com and use code CULTY at checkout. Don’t let financial opportunity slip through the cracks. Use code CULTY at MonarchMoney.com in your browser for half off your first year.Bring on the good vibes and treat yourself to Soul today! Soul is offering our audience 30% off your entire order! Go to GetSoul.com and use the code CULTY.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the second part of this conversation, Joe Szimhart delves into the intricate preparations and challenges of conducting cult interventions. He discusses the importance of understanding individual situations and the role of family dynamics in intervention success. Through vivid anecdotes, Joe explains the historical and sociological aspects of cult deprogramming, touching on controversial figures like Ted Patrick. He also highlights the psychological concepts such as cognitive dissonance, thought reform, and the significant impact of maintaining rapport and active listening. The episode encapsulates Joe's extensive experience and offers valuable advice for families dealing with loved ones entangled in high-control groups.Timestamp menu: 00:00 Introduction and Recap00:29 Preparing for an Intervention02:37 When to Use Force in Interventions02:55 The History of Deprogramming06:40 Challenges in Interventions08:36 Cases of Misunderstood Cult Influence13:50 Current Concerns in Cult Activities17:46 Understanding Brainwashing and Cognitive Dissonance18:26 Intervention Stories and Psychological Changes21:06 Breaking Cognitive Dissonance24:47 Personal Experience vs. Vicarious Experience29:11 Active Listening and Engaging Conversations33:41 Advice for Loved Ones of Cult Members36:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsYou can contact Joe at jszimhart.com, follow him on his YouTube channel or on X @jszimhart, and check out his memoir, Santa Fe, Bill Tate, and me. Check out his site dedicated to "culty" work: www.cultbehaviorconsultant.com.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this gripping episode of 'A Little Bit Culty,' hosts welcome Joe Szimhart, a veteran cult interventionist with over 40 years of experience. Joe delves into the history and evolution of cult deprogramming, sharing intricate details of his personal journey from an art student to an expert in cult interventions. The conversation covers key figures and movements in esotericism and theosophy, drawing connections between early and modern cult practices. Joe's fascinating anecdotes and practical advice on effective intervention methods offer valuable insights into the complexities of steering loved ones away from high control groups. This is part one of a two-part series.Timestamp Menu: 00:00 Introduction to Cult Intervention00:20 Meet Joe Sim Hart: Cult Interventionist01:29 Joe's Journey into Cults02:53 Theosophy and Esoteric Teachings07:16 Experiences with the I Am Cult12:50 Leaving the Cult and Helping Others23:21 First Steps as an Interventionist29:07 Techniques and Success Stories33:55 Conclusion and Teaser for Part TwoYou can contact Joe at jszimhart.com, follow him on his YouTube channel or on X @jszimhart, and check out his memoir, Santa Fe, Bill Tate, and me. Check out his site dedicated to "culty" work: www.cultbehaviorconsultant.com.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this follow-up episode, Marc Headley shares his extraordinary experiences within Scientology and the Sea Organization. He recounts being recruited into the Sea Org, working under extreme conditions in Los Angeles, and eventually being promoted to the international headquarters. Marc reveals the demanding nature of life in the Sea Org, including grueling work schedules and minimal pay. He details his unexpected role as a pre-clear for Tom Cruise and provides an inside look at the complicated, often bizarre practices within Scientology. Additionally, Marc discusses David Miscavige's leadership style, the organization's financial strategies, and the differences in how ex-members view life inside and outside of Scientology. This episode is rich with personal anecdotes and critical insights, offering a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world's most controversial organizations.Menu: 00:00 Introduction and Tom Cruise Anecdote00:33 Joining the Sea Org02:07 Promotion to International Headquarters03:34 Tom Cruise's Scientology Training05:37 Car School and Auditing07:54 Meeting with Marty Rathman09:28 Auditing with Tom Cruise20:56 David Miscavige and the IRS Event29:03 Scientology's Financial Exploitation31:57 A Life of Misery and Overwork32:28 The Decision to Escape33:34 The Harsh Reality of Life Inside36:52 The Violent Doctrine of Scientology39:01 Financial Manipulations and Power45:09 The Cult's Financial Strategies55:14 The Aftermath Foundation's MissionFollow Marc’s work and podcast at theaftermathfoundation.org and blownforgood.com and on YouTube @TheAftermathFoundation and @blownforgood.Also check out our past episodes with ex-Scientologists Mike Rinder and Claire Headley and Marc’s book, Blown for Good: Behind the Iron Curtain of Scientology.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Keep it classic and cozy this fall—with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to Quince.com/culty for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.Don’t let financial opportunity slip through the cracks. Use code CULTY at MonarchMoney.com in your browser for half off your first year.If you’re 21+, head to ViiaHemp.com and use the code CULTY to receive 15% off.Head to Superpower.com to learn more and lock in the special $199 price while it lasts. After you sign up, they'll ask how you heard about them—please make sure to mention A Little Bit Culty to support the show. Whether you’re chasing deeper sleep, better focus, or just some peace between your streaming marathons—this is how adults get elevated now. If you’re 21 or older, now’s your chance to float above the stress—because IndaCloud is giving all new customers 25% off their first order plus free shipping. Just use code CULTY or click the link in the show notes to claim your discount. That’s IndaCloud.co.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode is a conversation between a former member of the Sea Organization, an elite group within the Church of Scientology, and a host, Marc Headley. Part 1 of this discussion covers the former member's experiences in Scientology, including his family's involvement, the numerous relocations during his childhood, and working at Scientology's international base. Marc details the manipulation through family ties, the rigorous daily routine, and the psychological control employed by the organization. It also touches on the controversial beliefs and practices within Scientology, such as the infamous story of Lord Zenu. Moreover, the episode hints at a cliffhanger involving a significant encounter with Tom Cruise, promising more detailed revelations in Part 2. Menu: 00:00 Reunion in Vancouver00:09 Diving into the Book00:28 Life in Scientology03:26 The International Base05:31 The Secret Government Facility06:46 Old Man Gilman's Scam07:16 Scientology's Deceptive Purchases07:55 L. Ron Hubbard's Training Films15:05 Marc's Journey into Scientology20:11 Life in Hollywood22:26 Living the Scientology Way22:57 Childhood in Scientology25:28 Working for Scientology as a Child30:17 The Financial Side of Scientology33:14 Space Opera and Scientology Beliefs34:12 Personal Experiences and Reflections40:24 Family and Social Status in Scientology41:43 Teaser for the Next EpisodeFollow Marc’s work and podcast at theaftermathfoundation.org and blownforgood.com and on YouTube @TheAftermathFoundation and @blownforgood. Also check out our past episodes with ex-Scientologists Mike Rinder and Claire Headley and Marc’s book, Blown for Good: Behind the Iron Curtain of Scientology.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ready for the breaking point? In Part 2, we continue Stefan Kolesar’s deep dive into the world of Amway—where all those red flags on the shelf finally came crashing down. From mounting disillusionment and classic gaslighting to the pain of leaving behind loyal friends and an imagined future, Stefan shares the raw reality of waking up, grieving, and healing after 13 years inside the culty clutches of MLM life. Plus: why nearly 99% of recruits lose money, what really chaps Stefan’s ass about the so-called American Dream, and how true recovery means laughter, therapy, and building community with fellow ex-IBOs.Follow Stefan and Jenna on Instagram @ex.ibo.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/culty.Use code CULTY at MonarchMoney.com in your browser for half off your first year.Go to GetSoul.com and use the code CULTY for 30% off.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the “American Dream” turns out to be more like the “Amway Nightmare”? On this episode of A Little Bit Culty, we sit down with Stefan Kolesar to dig into his 13 years inside the OG of all MLMs—the so-called “granddaddy” that’s even entangled with NXIVM history. From coffee shop pitches and overpriced toothpaste to the hidden “tools” racket that keeps recruits hooked, Stefan breaks down how the system lures people in with promises of purpose, community, and certainty—while quietly bleeding them dry. This is Part 1 of his story: how he and his wife went all in, why it felt like serving something bigger, and how much it ultimately cost to realize it was all smoke and mirrors.Follow Stefan and Jenna on Instagram @ex.ibo.Also…let it be known that:The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad.**PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book hereCheck out our amazing sponsorsJoin A Little Bit Culty on PatreonGet poppin’ fresh ALBC SwagSupport the pod and smash this linkCheck out our cult awareness and recovery resourcesWatch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, ScarredCREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony AmesProduction Partner: Citizens of SoundCo-Creator: Jess TardyAudio production: Will RetherfordProduction Coordinator: Lesli DinsmoreWriter: Sandra NomotoSocial media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke KeaneTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel AsselinSUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/culty.Use code CULTY at MonarchMoney.com in your browser for half off your first year.Go to GetSoul.com and use the code CULTY for 30% off.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.