IndoctriNation

Elle Hardy is an Australian-born journalist mostly based in New Orleans. She has covered stories from every continent on earth, from North Korea to the backwoods of Alabama. Her writing credits include The Guardian, The Times, GQ, Vice, and more. Elle also appeared alongside Rachel, in the documentary Hillsong: A Megachurch Exposed, which uncovered the scandals of the “hip celebrity church”. Elle also went on to co-host the podcast series False Profits A personal journey into the heart of Hillsong Megachurch. Her first book exposes the Pentecostal agenda: not just saving souls but also transforming societies and controlling politics. She is currently working on her second book, about the Unification Church (also known as the Moonies), for Simon & Schuster. Rachel and Elle dive into a wide range of topics, including the global influence of Pentecostalism, the troubling rise of surveillance and data harvesting by religious groups, and the political shifts within evangelical and Catholic circles in the United States. Elle shares her insights on how these movements differ across countries and the implications of these differences. Elle discusses the unsettling trend of evangelical groups using apps to track and target individuals for conversion, revealing the potential dangers of such data being used by malicious actors. The conversation also touches on the political rightward shift among evangelicals and Catholics, the role of women in these movements, and the broader societal impacts of these trends. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of modern religious movements and their far-reaching effects on society and politics. You can learn more about Elle and her work at ellehardy.com. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Share Your Feedback With Us Here: forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience. Advertising 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: www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this insightful bonus episode, Rachel delves into the complexities of life after leaving a cultic group or controlling relationship. She discusses the common challenges faced by survivors as they navigate their newfound freedom and the potential need to return to therapy after resolving the immediate needs of post-cult trauma. Rachel emphasizes the importance of self-agency and the natural process of seeking support during overwhelming times. She shares her experiences with clients who have successfully completed therapy but find themselves returning due to various triggers. Whether you're a survivor of a cultic system or someone supporting a loved one, this episode provides a compassionate and informative perspective on the ongoing process of recovery and the importance of seeking help when needed. Thanks to all of our Patrons for making this episode possible!! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Annie Dawid is an award-winning author and professor who teaches creative writing at University College, of Denver. She is a professor of English and Director of Creative Writing at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, OR. Her latest novel PARADISE UNDONE: A NOVEL OF JONESTOWN is a historical fiction of the infamous tragedy that took place in Guyana 45 years ago, it is a sensitive account of 4 people whose lives were deeply impacted by cult leader Jim Jones. The book was published on November 18th, 2023 the 45th anniversary of the Jonestown massacre, and has been received with high praise from cult experts including some of our past guests Jon Atak, and Joe Szimhart. In this compelling episode, Annie brings a unique perspective to the tragic story of Jonestown. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on the victims rather than the infamous leader, Jim Jones, and sheds light on the often-overlooked narratives of those who lived through the ordeal. Annie discusses her latest book, which took two decades to publish, and her journey to uncover the stories of Jonestown's victims. She introduces us to key figures like Marceline Baldwin Jones, Jim Jones' wife, and other protagonists who provide a broader understanding of the People's Temple and its impact on its members and the country of Guyana. Rachel and Annie delve into the complexities of cult dynamics, the role of women in the People's Temple, and the psychological manipulation employed by Jim Jones. They also explore the broader implications of such movements and the importance of remembering the humanity of those who were lost. You can find out more about Annie and her work at: www.anniedawid.com Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Share Your Feedback With Us Here: forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Joel Looper is an adjunct professor at Baylor University and the author of the new book, Another Gospel: Christian Nationalism and the Crisis of Evangelical Identity in which he offers his fellow evangelicals a unique theological argument for resisting Christian nationalism. Using church history, Scriptural reasoning, and even analysis of Russian Christian nationalism. The book argues that another gospel, (which is actually not the gospel at all), has colonized American evangelicalism, explaining that decolonization requires a renewal of the Church’s own gospel-centered political vision. Joel delves into the complexities of Christian nationalism, its impact on American evangelicalism, and the theological arguments against it. He shares insights from his book, discusses the importance of community, and reflects on the upcoming 2024 election's potential consequences for evangelical identity. Throughout the episode, Rachel and Joel explore the nuances of Christian nationalism and the importance of differentiating its various definitions. They stress the need for open dialogue and critical thinking to navigate these complex issues. You can find out more about Joel and his work at: https://www.joellooper.com Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Help Support The Show on Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience. Share Your Feedback With Us Here: https://forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Advertising 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: www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this solo bonus episode, Rachel shares her insights into the disturbing world of the 7M TikTok cult popularized in the recent Netflix documentary "Dancing For The Devil" Led by Robert Shin, this group has exploited young dancers, manipulated their dreams, and torn families apart. From brainwashing to financial exploitation, the stories of former members are both shocking and eye-opening. Thanks to all of our Patrons for making this episode possible!! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Daniel Schricker is a composer and writer based in Adelaide, Australia. He completed undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the University of Adelaide, being awarded a PhD in 2020. In addition to his doctoral research in music composition, his academic interests include cults and fringe religious organizations. Some of his recent writings explore the theological and psychological aspects of high-control groups, leading to guest appearances on cult-themed podcasts in Australia, the UK, and South Africa. He was also a presenter at the 2023 International Cultic Studies Association Conference where he discussed some of his experiences growing up in KwaSizabantu and his role in pursuing justice for survivors of the group. Daniel provides a detailed overview of Kwasizabantu's origins in South Africa, its expansion into Europe, and the oppressive practices within the group, especially regarding their extreme views on confession and courtship. He also discusses his involvement in recent investigations and his efforts to raise awareness about the group's harmful practices. The conversation shifts to the role of fear in the group's theology, the brutal treatment of children, and the psychological impact on members. Daniel explains how the group's belief system diverges from mainstream Christianity and the importance of distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy religious practices. Rachel and Daniel also explore the influence of online figures like Lori Alexander, who promotes a hyper-patriarchal version of Christianity. Daniel shares his insights on how such online ministries can exhibit cult-like characteristics and the dangers they pose to their followers. Read Daniel's article on The Transformed Wife and more on his blog: https://revivalreviewed.wordpress.com/2024/04/09/the-cult-of-lori-alexander-the-transformed-wife/ Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Join Stacie Stukin, an arts and culture journalist, and Phillip Deslippe, a Ph.D. candidate and former 3HO member, as they unravel the dark history of the 3HO community's boarding schools. They shed light on the abusive practices tied to Yogi Bhajan's leadership and the enduring impact of silence surrounding generational trauma. With personal testimonies, they discuss the complexities of reparations and the emotional struggles of survivors, emphasizing the critical need for awareness and healing in the wake of such profound neglect.

This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive bonus episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this continuation from a previous bonus episode, Rachel explains how mantras and repetitive meditations can both heal and harm. She shares her insights by exploring the work of Elizabeth Clare Prophet and the Church Universal and Triumphant who is infamous for her hypnotic monologues. Thanks to all of our patrons for making this episode possible!! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Natalie Hoffman is the author of Is it Me? Making Sense of Your Confusing Marriage: A Christian Woman's Guide to Hidden Emotional and Spiritual Abuse and her recent memoir All the Scary Little Gods. Natalie is also the host of the Flying Free podcast. She is a mother, grandmother, educator, and passionate advocate for women of faith in abusive homes and churches. Through the Flying Free Sisterhood program, Natalie empowers women to discover and use their God-given voices, gifts, and freedom to choose for their spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Rachel and Natalie delve into the multi-layered aspects of Natalie's life, from her upbringing in a strict Christian environment to her journey through an abusive marriage and her eventual path to healing. Natalie shares her experiences with internal family systems (IFS) therapy, a method that has helped her understand and heal from her past trauma. They discuss the covert nature of emotional and spiritual abuse within religious settings and the importance of bringing these hidden issues to light. Natalie emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the significance of being an empathetic witness to oneself. You can find more info on Natalie and her work at: www.flyingfreenow.com Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ryan George spent the first 20 years of his life in a cult, attending a series of Independent Fundamental Baptist churches including one where his dad was the pastor, whose word was the ultimate authority. It wasn’t until Ryan was confronted with the truth that his father was a serial sexual abuser hiding his sins behind Bible verses, that Ryan realized his faith was built on a foundation of lies. He’s spent the last 25 years reevaluating what he truly believes, and miraculously, while he left the spiritually abusive IFB movement, he didn’t leave behind his faith altogether. In this episode, Ryan recounts his experience of confronting his father and the complex path of untangling his personal faith from the harmful tenets of American fundamentalism and the teachings of Bill Gothard. Despite the spiritual and physical abuse he endured, Ryan managed to reconstruct his faith and find redemption. His new book, "Hurt and Healed by the Church: Redemption and Reconstruction After Spiritual Abuse," delves into these experiences and his journey toward healing. Rachel and Ryan also explore the broader implications of abuse within religious settings and how it impacts families and communities. Ryan's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking out and finding one's own path to healing and faith. Connect with us on Social Media: Twitter: twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy