IndoctriNation

In this eye-opening episode, Rachel speaks with Jennifer Raiala, a former state government worker who found herself ensnared in the world of multi-level marketing (MLM) with Arbonne. Jennifer shares her journey from being a child protective services investigator to becoming a leader in an MLM, only to face the harsh realities and financial burdens that followed. She recounts the emotional toll of being trapped in a system that promised financial freedom but delivered financial strain and disillusionment. Jennifer reveals the manipulative tactics used within MLMs, including the pressure to recruit and the deceptive nature of supposed "business opportunities." She discusses her experience with coaching groups that further exploited her commitment, leading her to question her involvement and ultimately, her exit from the organization. Now dedicated to educating others, Jennifer works with nonprofits and local school districts to introduce anti-fraud and anti-scam curricula. Her story serves as a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope for those looking to break free from similar situations. Follow Jennifer to learn more about her story: https://linktr.ee/jenniferrajala Connect with Us on Social Media: - Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination - Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast - Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast - Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination - Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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 enlightening bonus episode, Rachel explores the complexities of engaging in conversations with individuals holding differing viewpoints, especially during the holiday season. As families and friends gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and other festivities, Rachel addresses the challenge of cognitive dissonance—the discomfort experienced when holding conflicting beliefs or values. Rachel discusses the impact of echo chambers, misinformation, and the effect of online disinhibition on our ability to engage in meaningful dialogue. She offers practical advice on setting boundaries, active listening, and using "I" statements to foster constructive conversations. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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

In this captivating episode, Rachel welcomes Lynn Smith Gregory, a direct descendant of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church. Raised in a devout Mormon family in Utah, Lynn shares her deeply personal journey of leaving the church at the age of 19 after uncovering unsettling truths about her family's legacy and the religion's history. Lynn recounts the immense pressure to live up to her family's revered status within the Mormon community, grappling with perfectionism and a turbulent family environment. Now residing in Savannah, Georgia, Lynn is working on her memoir, "We Were Smiths," which explores the profound impact of leaving the Mormon Church as a Smith. She offers insights into the characteristics of cult-like control within the religion, highlighting the church's insistence on being the sole path to truth and salvation, and the challenges faced by those who choose to leave. Learn more about Lyn and her work here: https://www.lynsmithgregory.com/ Connect with Us on Social Media: - Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination - Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast - Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast - Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination - Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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

In this revealing episode, Rachel sits down with Erik Rojas, a former program leader and senior staff member at Landmark Worldwide, the infamous large group awareness training organization. Erik shares his journey within Landmark, detailing the intense pressures and abusive practices he witnessed and experienced. Erik explains how his commitment and drive were exploited, leading him to work grueling hours with little pay while being subjected to physical and psychological abuse by his superiors. His story serves as a cautionary tale for those seeking transformation through large-group awareness training, highlighting the need for critical awareness and self-care. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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 episode, Rachel delves into the controversial history of Synanon, a group founded in 1958 by Charles Diedrich Sr. Originally established as an alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous, Synanon devolved into a notorious organization known for its aggressive "attack therapy" and coercive control tactics. Rachel explores the group's transformation from a rehabilitation center into a cult-like entity, marked by violence, manipulation, and psychological abuse. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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

In this compelling episode, Rachel speaks with Lynn Short, a former member of the New Gnostic Society, to explore her 17-year journey within the modern occult group. Lynn recounts her experiences as a missionary and the intense pressures she faced, including the doctrine's emphasis on sexual practices and the psychological control exerted over members. She candidly discusses the challenges of overcoming religious trauma and the path to healing that followed her departure in 2018. Lynn shares the personal and relational impact of her involvement in the group, highlighting the strain it placed on her marriage and the eventual realization of being used as free labor. Her resilience and determination to understand and dismantle the indoctrination she endured offer valuable lessons for those seeking liberation from controlling systems. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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

In this special post-election episode, Rachel welcomes Andrew Pledger to discuss the emotional aftermath of the recent election from a survivor's perspective. Andrew, a cult survivor and advocate, shares his unique insights into the intersection of Christian fundamentalism and the current political climate. Raised in an independent fundamental Baptist church, Andrew's journey of self-discovery and escape from high-control environments informs his work in raising awareness through his podcasts, "Surviving Bob Jones University" and "Beyond Exposing Fundamentalism." Rachel and Andrew explore the common triggers and fears that have emerged in this unprecedented election season, emphasizing the importance of community and self-care for those affected by high-control groups. The conversation offers guidance and support to those grappling with feelings of isolation and anxiety in hopes that listeners will find solace in community and shared healing. Connect with Andrew and learn more about his work at: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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 timely episode, Rachel addresses the upcoming U.S. presidential election and its impact on cult survivors. She explores the psychological parallels between political dynamics and cult-like behaviors, focusing on the anxiety and fear triggered by the current political climate. Rachel discusses the rise of Christian nationalism and its influence on American culture, highlighting the importance of understanding these movements for those affected by high-control groups. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination- Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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

Returning guest Nikki G. is a Certified Trauma Recovery Coach who helps survivors recover and thrive after Religious Trauma & Cult involvement. She is also a survivor of multiple narcissistic relationships, religious trauma, as well as a former member of multiple cultic communities. Nikki is the CEO of Nikki G Speaks LLC, which exists to support survivors with individual coaching services, an online community, and other various forms of psycho-education related to religious trauma, narcissistic abuse, and cult involvement. Nikki is also a co-host of the podcast “Surviving the Black Church” where she and her co-hosts delve into conversations regarding religious trauma in the Black Church. She and another colleague have just recently founded The Black Religious Trauma Recovery Network, which is a resource to educate, support, and empower black religious trauma survivors. Nikki also sits on the board of directors for Tears of Eden.In this eye-opening episode, Rachel and Nikki delve into the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and its impact on society, politics, and spirituality. Nikki provides a comprehensive overview of NAR's goals, including the controversial Seven Mountain Mandate, which seeks to influence key societal spheres such as government, education, and media. She warns of the potential dangers of dominionism and spiritual colonization, urging listeners to stay informed and vigilant. As they discuss Project 2025 and the rise of political figures like Mike Johnson, Nikki highlights the importance of recognizing the underlying agendas driving these movements. She encourages listeners to research and understand the origins of these ideologies to make informed decisions about their beliefs and political actions.She emphasizes the need for survivors to reclaim their agency and voice, providing hope and guidance for those seeking to break free from controlling systems. Connect with Nikki G. and learn more about her work at: www.nikkigspeaks.com. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination- Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast Patreon: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Webinars & Lectures: www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos 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

In this compelling episode, Rachel introduces Dr. John Hunter, a South African researcher and lecturer, to explore the psychological and neurobiological impacts of Large Group Awareness Trainings (LGATs). Dr. Hunter offers a unique perspective on how LGATs can trigger manic-like episodes and psychosis. Rachel and Dr. Hunter discuss the psychological and social dynamics within LGATs, including the use of authority, social proof, and peripheral route persuasion to influence participants. They explore the intense stress and emotional highs and lows engineered by these trainings, drawing parallels to abusive interpersonal relationships and the addictive nature of the dopamine-driven states they induce. Connect with Dr. John Hunter and learn more about his work at www.johnhunterphd.com Connect with Us on Social Media: - Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination - Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast - Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast 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