Cults to Consciousness

TIMESTAMPS UNAVAILABLE FOR THIS EPISODECW: CA, mentions of suicide- Jamie Mustard was born into one of the most influential fringe movements in the 1970s: Scientology. Raised on a mythos of spaceships and made to believe that it was his life’s purpose to help save the world, he was determined to survive—not only unsurvivable neglect but also the impossible physical and psychological gauntlet of extreme poverty and illiteracy. Children were kept in animalistic conditions away from their parents and hardly kept alive until they were deemed “useful” by Scientology. At which point ensued extreme, dangerous labor and endless hours of Scientology classes to keep their “ethics up”. The last straw was being punished for his bosses wrongdoings at 19 when he was sent aboard a cruise liner for hard manual labor for months. Once he learned they had intent to send him back yet again, he made his quick yet calculated escape for freedom. Uneducated and illiterate, he worked hard and with the guidance and support of kind educators, managed to graduate from a prestigious UK university in economics. He’s a true testament to what one can achieve after all odds are stacked against them. Click to watch on YouTubeWatch Jamie on Soft White UnderbellyJamie’s book: ChiId X: A Memoir of Slavery, Poverty, Celebrity, and ScientologyBen Bella BooksJamie’s work - website: https://www.iconist.ltd/IG: @jamie_mustard  Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After an amazing discussion with Jenna Miscavige, we knew we had to come back and further discuss what led her out of her Scientology marriage. Even further, we will explore the tactics that set former Scientologists up for failure when it comes to relationships after the cult. A real and raw conversation about the hardships faced when raised in a militaristic, emotionless prison like environment. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Jenna's initial interview hereFind Jenna on social media:YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@JennaMiscavigeIG: https://www.instagram.com/therealjennamiscavige/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TIMESTAMPS UNAVAILABLE FOR THIS EPISODEJenna Miscavige was born into and grew up in Scientology. Her uncle, David Miscavige, is the leader of Scientology. Jenna details her nearly parentless life as a number in the militaristic conditions where they kept the children. Her mother was a high ranking member, so when she saw how she lived in what felt like royal conditions compared to her, she doubled down in her beliefs with the intention of also being able to live the same lifestyle in the upper ranks. Things definitely started to spiral when Jenna found out both of her. Parents were no longer Scientologists and she would then be punished for that. Marriage seemed like the first step towards any loving and meaningful relationship (a glimpse of joy in her house of horrors), but even then her plans were disrupted time and time again due to who she was in relation to the leader. Her escape was long and drawn out with Scientology never truly leaving her and her husband alone. Learn more about her life in her memoir Beyond Belief: My Secret Life Inside Scientology & My Harrowing Escape as well as on her YouTube Channel linked below. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Jenna on social media:YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@JennaMiscavigeIG: https://www.instagram.com/therealjennamiscavige/Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Following our incredible interview with Melissa Duge Spiers, today we go LIVE to confront the question...  Is Seventh-Day Adventism a Cult? Melissa grew up in the shadow of control, silence, and secrets inside the insular fundamentalist sect, Seventh-Day Adventist Church. From being beaten for resisting a childhood home perm to seducing a forbidden public school athlete in her parents’ bed to reclaim her autonomy, Melissa’s early years were shaped by repression, shame, and religious programming. Her escape from the SDA church launched her into a life of risk. When Melissa learned that a family member was a serial chiId predator shielded by the church, her world imploded. But this revelation was only the beginning.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch her initial interviewFind Melissa on Social Media!HOLY DISOBEDIENCE memoirIG: https://www.instagram.com/the.glory.whole/Personal IG: https://www.instagram.com/melissadugespiers_writerSubstack: https://substack.com/@melissadugespiersemail: the.glory.whole.memoir@gmail.comSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TIMESTAMPS UNAVAILABLE FOR THIS EPISODECW: mentions of eating disorders, female GM, CSA, SA.  Melissa Duge Spiers grew up in the shadow of control, silence, and secrets inside the insular fundamentalist sect, Seventh-Day Adventist Church. From being beaten for resisting a childhood home perm to seducing a forbidden public school athlete in her parents’ bed to reclaim her autonomy, Melissa’s early years were shaped by repression, shame, and religious programming. Her escape from the SDA church launched her into a life of risk. When Melissa learned that a family member was a serial chiId predator shielded by the church, her world imploded. But this revelation was only the beginning.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch our follow up LIVE with Melissa hereFind Melissa on Social Media!HOLY DISOBEDIENCE memoirIG: https://www.instagram.com/the.glory.whole/Personal IG: https://www.instagram.com/melissadugespiers_writerSubstack: https://substack.com/@melissadugespiersemail: the.glory.whole.memoir@gmail.comSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TIMESTAMPS UNAVAILABLE FOR THIS EPISODECW:  CA, DV, Mentions of CSA Material & Suicidal Attempts/Ideation.  Zett Espinoza was born into a professional criminal family in Los Angeles. Her mother struggled with mental illness and that often left the children neglected and afraid. Initiated into gang life around 12 years old, Zett’s father was conditioned for illegal activity. He started an illegal empire and employed his children to avoid his own fingerprints on the horrific materials they were packing. He was constantly running from the law and even escaped prison at one point which led him to cross into Mexico and force his children to take on new identities. Zett and her siblings had no choice but to fall into line and continue the criminal activity into their adult years. Zett managed to escape that life, but not without serious threats from her father who is still to this day at large. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Zett on Soft White Underbelly - “A Fugitive Childhood"Follow Zett on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ZettEspinozaSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CW: Suicidal ideation, self harm.  Born in the 1970s in Wisconsin, Arno grew up in a turbulent environment with alcohol, fighting, and family dysfunction around him.  As a teenager, he was angry, rebellious, and looking for belonging. That led him toward white power skinhead culture in the late 1980s. He became a founding member of a major U.S. skinhead gang and the lead singer of a hate-metal band that glorified racism and violence. Eventually, cracks began forming in his extremist worldview and a few things shifted him away from hate: Becoming a father, kindness from people he was supposed to hate and burnout from violence — he saw friends go to prison, die, or spiral into addiction, and he realized the path only led to destruction. By the mid-1990s, he walked away from the white power movement.In 2011, Arno helped found Life After Hate, an organization dedicated to helping people leave extremist movements and rebuild their lives.  He became a public speaker, sharing his story in schools, prisons, and communities around the world.His memoir My Life After Hate (2010) details his radicalization and transformation.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and Connect with Arno:Website:  www.mylifeafterhate.comIG: @ArnoMichaelis LinkedIn: @ArnoMichaelisParental resource: parents4peace.orgIf you are concerned about someone’s extreme beliefs or behaviors, Parents for Peace has a free and confidential helpline at 844-49-PEACE (844-497-3223) or email at help@parents4peace.org Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:03:21 Why Arno Decided to Share His Past; His Backstory00:06:31 Arno’s ChiIdhood & The Beginnings of His Anti-Social Behavior00:12:25 How Arno’s Self-Esteem & Tactics He That Would've Benefitted Him as a Boy00:18:05 Arno’s Group's Interaction with Other White National*sts00:23:14  How Arno Used His Natural Leadership Abilities Throughout His Life and As Part of H*te Groups00:26:37 How Arno Became Familiar with White National*st Ideologies00:33:05 Life After Moving Out of the House at 1600:39:11 The Specifics of How Arno Adopted Rac*st Ideologies00:47:13 CW: Rac*sm, Arno Shares the Beginning Steps of Him Leaving the Sk*nhead Group and Ideologies00:48:57 CW: Attempted Su*cide, self h*rm00:52:33 CW: Attempted Su*cide, self h*rm, Having a Daughter While Still in the White National*st Group00:55:18 CW: Su*cidal ideation, self h*rm00:59:44 Arno Explains His Self-Destructive Attitudes and What Eventually Led him Out of the Sk*nheads01:07:26 Arno Shares Some of the Kindness Seeds People Planted Along the Way that Were Contrary to His Ideologies01:15:32 Arno’s Famous "McDonald's Story"01:23:51 What Arno is Doing Now And How He Helps Get People Out of Extrem*st H*te Groups01:27:01 Arno’s Interactions with Daryl Davis01:31:23 Final Thoughts and Linda ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CW:  SA, ED, Suicidal Ideation.  Growing up Ultra Orthodox in an extremely abusive home, left Tzivya Murrin completely unprepared for the outside world. She tried to get help multiple times to get away from her parents, but the system failed her. Once she finally got someone on the outside to listen, hands were held out to pull her out of her dangerous situation. However, some of those hands lead her right back into chaos and destruction. Find out how she was finally able to find peace and stability after a long tumultuous life. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch Pt 1Find Tzivya on social media: https://www.instagram.com/tzivyateemurrin/FB: https://www.facebook.com/tzivya.murrin.medicaid.plannerhttps://www.facebook.com/SensibleSeniorPlanningSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CW:  CSA, CA, ED, Suicidal Ideation.  In a system that keeps victims silent in their pain, perpetrators go unchecked and are further emboldened to inflict harm. Tzivya Murrin was trapped in this system. No matter what she did, her parents found reason for extreme punishment. She asked for help multiple times from her community and instead was handed right back to her abusers. Time and time again the system failed her and she was forced to live a childhood rife with every type of abuse imaginable. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 2Find Tzivya on social media: https://www.instagram.com/tzivyateemurrin/FB: https://www.facebook.com/tzivya.murrin.medicaid.plannerhttps://www.facebook.com/SensibleSeniorPlanningSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:03:44 Tzivya's sect of Judaism and its teachings against non-Jews00:12:31 Tzivya's family structure and dynamic00:16:40 CW: CA, The patterns of ab*se around getting good grades00:23:28 Tzivya's community turning a blind eye00:28:53 CW: CA, Tzivya's taking risks to lessen her ab*se00:34:38 CW: CA, CSA, The start of Tzivya being CSA00:39:30 CW: CA, CSA, Su*cidal Ideation, The extreme pun*shment Tzivya received for cheating00:45:07 Tzivya's mother 00:48:47 CW: CA, CSA, ED, When Tzivya's mother started ab*sing her00:54:02 The ways Tzivya's mom tried to control her body and food00:58:05 CW: CA, CSA, ED, Tzivya's first attempts to talk to others about the ab*se01:06:06 The continued control during and after high school01:11:29 The teaching to not report within Tzivya's sect of JudaismSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Targeted violence hit a Mormon church in Michigan which claimed at least 5 lives. The same day, it was discovered that the LDS prophet had passed away at 101 years old. A weekend full of grief. We will discuss the events, hold space for those lost and talk about what might be next with the new prophet Dallin H Oaks. Joining us to speak on the history of Oaks is Bryan from True Mormon Quotes. Click here to watch on YouTubeFollow Bryan on IG: http://www.instagram.com/true_mormon_quotesAP article: https://apnews.com/article/mormon-church-shooting-michigan-dcb79ee701b0b8076bf73e30e10ba2b7Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tamara was a new mom seeking connection and community in a scary world where simplicity was romanticized. She was introduced to the Twelve Tribes by a family member and after some love bombing on some overnight trips, she was hooked. She convinced her husband to sell all they owned including their home and even clothes to leave society and move their family into a single bedroom in a communal TT home. Her son Emmet was less than 2 years old and he would come to live a difficult life in the strict boundaries of the cult. Tamara would come to regret her decision after the bait and switch had become clear, but it was too late. She went on to have more children and wouldn’t leave the cult with her family until 14 years later. Tamara and her son Emmet talk about what it was like going through it together. Click here to watch on YouTubeTamara's Interview Pt 1Tamara's Interview Pt 2Find Tamara!FB: Tamara Mathieu Author IG: https://www.instagram.com/tamaramathieu4/Book: All Who BelievedClick here to watch Emmet’s interview Follow Emmet on social media:Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/milwalkietalkieTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@milwalkietalkieYouTube: https://youtube.com/@milwalkietalkieSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Just before Emmet Mathieu was 2 years old, his mother Tamara longed for community and simple living, so she convinced her husband to permanently move into the Twelve Tribes commune. Immediate regret set in, but it was too late. Forced to conform to extreme chiId discipline, Emmet was punished every day just for doing developmentally normal things. Immediate compliance was mandatory and if not given he would be punished with the “rod”. He wasn’t allowed to have independent play, speak to other children, and was put to work as young as a toddler. Emmet explains how he learned to cope and the struggles he faced after his family escaped in his late teen years. Click here to watch on YouTubeFollow Emmet on social media:Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/milwalkietalkieTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@milwalkietalkieYouTube: https://youtube.com/@milwalkietalkieSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:03:53 Emmet's summary of the 12 Tribes00:08:07 CW: CA, Emmet's standout chiIdhood memories00:16:36 Toxic productivity and schooling in the community00:27:03 Friendships and secretly communicating with other chiIdren00:32:41 Starting work as a chiId00:36:08 Seeing the outside world, and the instability within the cult00:45:53 Emmet's involvement with teaching chiIdren, and moving to Florida00:51:30 Emmet's feeling he's carried with him since leaving & life in Florida00:56:50 Emmet's family leaves the cult01:01:13 Working, finishing school, and navigating high school sports01:08:10 Dating and meeting girls01:12:18 Gaming, streaming, and sharing his story01:16:17 Emmet's Linda Listen and final thoughtsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After joining what Tamara Mathieu thought would be a wholesome, down to earth, communal family group in August of 2000, things quickly went downhill— she immediately regretted her decision.  At 23 years old, Tamara, her husband and their 17-month-old son gave up EVERYTHING to join the Twelve Tribes worldwide religious organization.  In return they received a militaristic, impossible-to-please hierarchy, where she worked constantly and had to employ harsh discipline on her children. Fourteen years went by and enough was enough. Find out how her family finally escaped the Twelve Tribes and learned how to once again be “of the world” with no jobs, money or housing. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch the interview with Tamara's son, EmmetWatch pt 1Find Tamara!FB: Tamara Mathieu Author IG: https://www.instagram.com/tamaramathieu4/Book: All Who BelievedSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:19:12 The "Prison of Specialness" & meeting good people00:23:22 What adolescence looks like inside vs outside the 12 Tribes00:30:47 The struggles adapting to living in the outside world00:36:31 Repercussions on Tamara's family after leaving the community 00:45:13 The Yellow Deli's00:52:58 Food in the 12 Tribes00:56:21 Tamara's passions and joys & adjustments she's still making01:03:55 Tamara's Linda Listen and final thoughtsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lured into the TWELVE TRIBES (Yellow Deli) CultTIMESTAMPS UNAVAILABLE FOR THIS EPISODETamara Mathieu was a new mother in a scary world where Columbine had just happened. Romanticizing a simple life and craving safety for her family, she began visiting the Twelve Tribes. She noticed a village raising the well behaved chiIdren, homemade food and happy families. Feeling alone, isolated and overwhelmed at home with her baby, she spent more and more time at their compounds. She was welcomed with open arms, given gift baskets and the women loved her chiId. It felt like home. She convinced her husband to leave his high paying job, sell their home and all their belongings and completely leave their modern life behind to move into the Twelve Tribes. Assigned one bedroom for their family, everything changed once they moved in. Work became excruciating, chiId discipline expectations were extreme and Tamara would see her husband even less than before. Regret set in, but it was too late. She wouldn’t escape the community until 14 years later.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 2Watch the interview with Tamara's son, EmmetFind Tamara!FB: Tamara Mathieu Author IG: https://www.instagram.com/tamaramathieu4/Book: All Who BelievedSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Featured in the Shiny Happy People 2 doc-series, Cindy was deep in evangelical nationalism when she was hired as head of PR to silence whistleblowers from the Honor Academy at Teen Mania. She was told they were simply disgruntled chiIdren who were lying to defame the massive enterprise. Years later, she would realize, not only were the alumni telling the truth, but the upper management knew about the tort*re the chiIdren went through and did nothing to stop it, or change their practices for the following group. In fact, it was all part of the system to break the will of the interns and mold them into warriors for Jesus so they could penetrate all facets of society and create a Christian nation. Once Cindy’s eyes were opened, she took all their insider financial information to a news station to blast the story to the world. Click here to watch on YouTubeEmail Cindy:  CindyMallette@gmail.comWatch the interview with Mica RingoSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mica Ringo was heavily invested in Teen Mania and went through the whole program completely ignoring xyr inner voice of authenticity. Being yourself was never an option in a group that specifically molds teens to be extremist warriors for Jesus. The program was grueling and even abusive in an attempt to break down the character of teens coming in.  Mica would go on to create the Recovering Alumni blog which would lead to the fall of Teen  Mania Ministries!Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Mica on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/mx.micaringo/Website: https://www.micaringo.comWatch the interview with Cindy Mallette, the person hired to silence MicaSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 intro00:05:46 Mica's upbringing00:09:38 Things that lead Mica on the path towards Team Mania00:15:27 Navigating Mica's s*xuality within purity culture00:17:53 Mica's involvement in Team Mania00:27:36 The Honor Academy00:45:09 Mica's blog00:56:55 Mica's Marriage & deconstruction01:09:44 Mica goes to the press01:15:04 Linda, listen01:16:12 What brings Mica joy nowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TIMESTAMPS UNAVAILABLE FOR THIS EPISODECelebrating 250 episodes with these 5 incredible women!  We explore ways in which different Amish and sometimes Mennonite settlements had the same methods of control and even ab*se. We cover their rules, restrictions, medical allowances (or lack thereof), why CSA is rampant and how the perpetr*tors are often protected rather than truly held accountable. The stories and wisdom are beautifully shared amongst survivors supporting each other. They also share ways in which they believe women can take back their power in or outside a cult and gain clarity and freedom.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and support our guests!Lizzie HershbergerSwartzentruber AMISH: The Unknown SINISTER Side of the Strictist Settlement Swartzentruber AMISH: Seeking JUSTICE Against the Strictest SettlementResources: https://www.theplainpeoplespodcast.com/resourceHer book: “Behind Blue Curtains: A True Crime Memoir of an Amish Woman’s Survival, Escape, and Pursuit of Justice” Website: https://www.lizziehershberger.com/IG @lizzie.hershberger Naomi SwartzentruberAMISH: How Growing Up in the Strictest Settlement Led to Dr*gs and S*x Work Naomi’s book:  The Amazing Adventures of an Amish Stripper IG & TT:  @AmishInspiration https://www.instagram.com/AmishInspirationhttps://www.tiktok.com/@amishinspirationFB: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aq4Tw6q9h/?mibextid=wwXIfrElizabeth HiltyAMISH: Her Unlicensed Midwives Used Veterinary Tools Connect with Elizabeth on FacebookMeg Delagrange-Belfon“Sins of the Amish” Doc: Darker Details than They Were Willing to Release on TV Her artwork: https://www.coloringspirit.com/Her Blog: https://blendedmix.life/IG: @coloringspirit Plain Anna Mary BylerAMISH Woman "Sinned" by Taking Her Brothers to Court for SA Mary's Website: https://www.themisfitamish.com/amishresourcesIG @plainrainbows_mary Mary's Book: Reflections and Memories of An Amish Misfit: "My therapist says that’s not true, but I digress" Fb: https://www.facebook.com/Mary.A.Byler/TikTok: the.misfit.amishSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Following up our initial interview with the incredible April Ajoy, we go LIVE with her to further discuss her upbringing as a Christian Nation*list, in which they drilled into teens a persecution complex that would put their life on the line as a declared “believer”. Fresh off the heels of “Shiny Happy People: Teenage Holy War”, April is a successful content creator and podcast host, sharing stories from her past and how she flipped a 180 in her thinking and way of life.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch April’s initial interviewFind April:Book: Star-Spangled Jesus IG: https://www.instagram.com/aprilajoy/Podcast: The Tim and April ShowSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last month the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints lost an appeal to remain blameless in the case of two bishops not reporting egregious acts of CSA in the state of Arizona.  Today we go in depth with former guest and current lawyer Kolby Reddish to further discuss the case and potential legal outcome.Click here to watch on YouTubeCheck out our interviews with Kolby:  Mormon Church SUED for Not Reporting Unspeakable Confessions (the Verdict) ft. Kolby ReddishMormonism On Trial: Ex-Mormon Lawyer Challenges Truth ClaimsHow a Mormon Lawyer Lost His Faith Ft. Kolby ReddishSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After escaping the COG cult in Australia with her husband, Maria Esguerra spent years in higher education so she could become a psychologist and better understand her past. Her mission now is to help other survivors of high control groups and people, move through their trauma and find healing in understanding. She is even doing her best to help legally forge a path for those who are victims of coercive control and help the courts understand that crimes are not always so black and white. Our discussion covers the ways in which children's wiring is not only affected, but hijacked, when growing up in dangerous and or high control cults. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and Support Maria!The Olive Leaf Network: Linktr.ee https://linktr.ee/MariaesguerraIG @cultpsyc TikTok: @mariaesguerra13 FB: https://www.facebook.com/maria.esguerra.75436DeCult: www.decult.netSubscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel!Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast.Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here!Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannFind us on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.