IndoctriNation

In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Pamela Jones, who shares her remarkable journey from a polygamist cult to a life of freedom and self-discovery. Pamela was born in Los Molinos, Mexico, to members of the Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times, a fundamentalist, misogynistic cult. She was the 11th of her father’s 57 biological children and 2nd of her mother’s thirteen children, and it was from that moment on that Pamela held one single belief: She existed for one reason and one reason only,  to be her eventual husband’s handmaid and to bear him as many children as possible.Fast forward to age 10, Pamela was forced out of school to help her mom care for her 12 children,  giving her nothing more than a fifth-grade education. At age 15, Pamela married David Lebaron, the grandson of cult founder Alma Dayer LeBaron Jr., and was pregnant 17 times in 18 years. After 9 childbirths and 8 miscarriages, Pamela felt she had enough children to make it to heaven, a fundamentalist belief. One day, she awoke her nine children and escaped the neglect and abuse from her husband.Since arriving in the United States, Pamela has founded a multimillion-dollar business, Exclusive Services by MyGirls, and has shared her story across the country to show how someone who came from nothing can truly have everything. She has raised successful, entrepreneurial children, authored her own book, and is now a recognized public speaker, celebrated as both an inspiring businesswoman and a voice of empowerment. Her family has grown to include 31 grandchildren, keeping Pamela busier and more fulfilled than ever.Pamela’s LinksOrder Pamela’s Book: https://www.pamelaspeaks.live/bookSocial Media Handles:LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mygirlshousecleaning/WEBSITE: https://www.pamelaspeaks.liveFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/PamelaSpeaksUpINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/pamela_speaks/?hl=enConnect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Rachel Bernstein welcomes Dr. Mara Einstein to explore the pervasive influence of marketing strategies and their parallels with cult tactics. They share personal anecdotes and experiences, discuss the recruitment and indoctrination processes of cults and MLMs, and delve into the psychology behind marketing and brand communities. The conversation also touches upon how digital technology has transformed these practices and the importance of critical thinking and awareness in avoiding manipulation. Dr. Einstein provides insights from her extensive research and experience, offering valuable information on how marketing and cult tactics intersect and influence people's lives.Order Hoodwinked: https://www.drmaraeinstein.com/hoodwinkedDr. Mara Einstein's Website: https://www.drmaraeinstein.com/Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/indoctrinationIn this Patreon exclusive bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein delves into the concept of the 'watchful eye' and the chilling effects of surveillance on personal autonomy. Discussing how awareness of being watched can deter individuals from exercising their rights, the episode covers various forms of surveillance, including physical, digital, and psychological. The host shares alarming examples of manipulation and control within cults and other groups, emphasizing how surveillance is used to manage and direct behavior. Real-life stories highlight the emotional and ethical consequences of these practices. The episode is a comprehensive discussion on the detrimental impact of surveillance on trust, self-esteem, and autonomy.Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Kyle and Kari Hanks left the 2x2 church during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside last week’s guests, Mike and Abbi Prussack, they launched a Facebook support group for former members in early 2022. In March 2023, they publicly released a leaked letter detailing abuse by a former overseer. The letter triggered a wave of disclosures, as thousands of survivors came forward to share their stories. The group quickly expanded from 900 to over 5,600 members, and has since documented more than 600 individual abusers—part of a broader tally exceeding 1,000 within a religious community estimated at 75,000 members. In 2024, the FBI opened an investigation, which remains ongoing.In this episode, Kyle and Kari also reflect on their upbringing within the 2x2 church. They describe its teachings, social norms, and a culture where questioning was quietly suppressed. They share how the isolation of the pandemic became a turning point—prompting them to deconstruct their faith and confront beliefs they once held as absolute.Kyle and Kari's Links2x2 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ex2x2Church Updates: https://www.facebook.com/2x2churchupdatesSurvivor Care Funding Organization: https://www.bridgesandbalm.orgAuthor website for Preserving the Truth, the most comprehensive published work about the 2x2 church to date: https://cheriekroppehrig.comConnect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this special feed drop episode, Rachel Bernstein shares her insightful interview from 'Meredith for Real.' The discussion delves into the dynamics of politics and cults, examining the psychological vulnerabilities that make people susceptible to political cults, the role of media manipulation and thought-stopping cliches, and the fusion of politics and religion. Rachel provides practical advice on how individuals can educate themselves and critically evaluate information to prevent being unduly influenced by political extremism. She also addresses the alarming trend of polarized political discourse, stressing the importance of personal awareness and critical thinking. The episode highlights the necessity for more objective news sources and the role of education in fostering informed perspectives. Meredith’s LinksWebsite:  https://www.meredithforreal.com/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meredithforreal/    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/meredithforreal  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meredithforrealthecuriousintrovertConnect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Mike and Abbi Prussack, who left the 2x2 church after a faith crisis. They discuss the challenges of leaving and uncovering widespread sexual abuse within the church, catalyzed by a leaked letter in 2023. The couple, along with their friends Kyle and Kari, started a support group for survivors and have been documenting abuse claims. They shed light on the control mechanisms within the church, the emotional and psychological impact on members, and their ongoing efforts to provide support and validation for abuse survivors. Their work highlights the power of giving a voice to the voiceless and the importance of speaking out against systemic abuse.Mike and Abbi’s Links2x2 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ex2x2Church Updates: https://www.facebook.com/2x2churchupdatesAbbi and Mike’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@our2x2storySurvivor Care Funding Organization: https://www.bridgesandbalm.orgAuthor website for Preserving the Truth, the most comprehensive published work about the 2x2 church to date: https://cheriekroppehrig.comConnect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination In the continuation of this Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein delves into the topic of long-term recovery and cognitive distortions experienced by former cult members. The episode covers various forms of cognitive distortions such as emotional reasoning, 'should' statements, labeling, and personalization. The emphasis is on identifying these distortions and the importance of cognitive restructuring in the healing process. The host outlines a four-phase recovery process, including physical and psychological departure from the cult, building a sense of self, emotional healing, and achieving post-traumatic growth. The discussion highlights the necessity of rebuilding social networks and the role of critical thinking in reclaiming autonomy and self-worth. Listeners are encouraged to be gentle with themselves and to remain open to positive feedback as they navigate their recovery journey.Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Brian Recker, a former evangelical pastor who has transitioned away from fundamentalist beliefs. Brian discusses his journey of self-discovery and deconstruction from the religion that defined his upbringing. The conversation covers his early life, the impact of fundamentalist teachings, and the transition to more inclusive spirituality. Brian shares the concepts from his book 'Hell Bent,' which examines the metaphor of hell and the importance of living a life rooted in love and connection instead of fear and punishment. Rachel and Brian also delve into the challenges of leaving a high-control religious environment and the importance of personal integrity. This episode provides a deep and insightful look into redefining faith and the costs and rewards of navigating such a transformative journey.Purchase Hell Bent: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/771172/hell-bent-by-brian-recker/Brian’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berecker/Brian’s Substack: https://brianrecker.substack.com/Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein introduces Chiaki Yanagimoto, a prominent Japanese-born filmmaker based in LA, known for her work in documentaries and independent cinema. In their conversation, Chiaki discusses her documentary 'AUM: The Cult at the End of the World,' exploring the catastrophic impact of the Aum Shinrikyo cult and its leader Shoko Asahara on Japanese society. She delves into the group's formation, rise, and infamy post the 1995 Tokyo Subway sarin attack. The episode touches on the mechanisms of manipulative control within cults, their societal impacts, and the ongoing relevance of these themes in the modern world. Chiaki shares her connection to the event, the complexities of cult psychology, and the making of the documentary, offering profound insights and reflections on the necessity of exposing such narratives.AUM: The Cult at the End of the Worldhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt24076636/?ref_=mv_closeChiaki’s website: https://www.synepicentertainment.com/infoConnect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination This Patreon exclusive bonus episode focuses on the intricate and multifaceted journey of recovering from cultic experiences. Rachel Bernstein addresses questions about the timeline for recovery and emphasizes that it varies greatly among individuals. The episode explores the profound psychological, emotional, social, and political impacts of cult involvement, including identity suppression, cognitive distortions, and internalized control mechanisms. Key topics include the reconstruction of the authentic self, the role of self-compassion, and the importance of professional support and community. The episode also covers the extensive and deep-seated trauma associated with cults, highlighting the pervasive shame, self-alienation, and the internal persecutor that survivors often face. Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy