Cults to Consciousness

**Content Warning: DV, rape, SA** Tia Levings discusses her dark reality in Christian fundamentalism, with evangelical patriarchy and religious trauma.  Having appeared in the Amazon docu-series, Shiny Happy People, and written a harrowing memoir, A Well-Trained Wife she reveals how she had to save herself and her family and details the ways that extreme views can manifest in a marriage.Recruited into the fundamentalist Quiverfull movement as a young wife, Tia Levings learned that being a good Christian meant following a list of additional life principles––a series of secret, special rules to obey. Being a godly and submissive wife in Christian Patriarchy included strict discipline, isolation, and an alternative lifestyle that appeared wholesome to outsiders. Women were to be silent, “keepers of the home.” But in the patriarchy, a woman with opinions is in danger, and eventually, Tia faced an urgent and extreme choice: stay and face dire consequences, or flee with her children.Click here to watch on YouTubePre order Tia’s book: A Well-Trained WifeFind Tia on social media!IG:  @tialevingswriterThe Anti-Fundamentalist **FULLY BOOKED** Our C2C vacation where we can meet you in real life and go on adventures together has sold out! However,  you can add yourself to our waitlist in case of cancellations.   Click here to go to the official booking page How Tia was raised that led to falling prey to her husband Did Tia's parents read her book? Nightmarish doctrine Tia learned in her youth All that's needed is a submissive and willing spirit You will drown in a lake of fire if you are not pleasing to God Selling the patriarchal movement to women- what that literally means Not allowed to have anything for yourself as a woman TW: Domestic ab*se- calling it a "correction" How Tia emerged from the isolation through secret online communication with women What it was like being a mother within this ab*sive reality Tia decided to escape when she saw how it was hurting her chiIdren  Tia's escape story How Tia's children handled it all  When did Tia feel safe enough to deconstruct and begin healing? Advice for someone going through a similar situation Our Merch!Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannAny donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcastWebsite CultsToConsciousness.comFind Shelise on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousnessHost Instagram @sheliseannTikTok @cults.to.consciousnessTwitter @cultstoconTheme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara**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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Content Warning: SA, CA, CSA, mentions of rape Misty Griffin returns to the studio to further discuss her experience growing up at the hands of her tortuous mother and step father, who isolated her and her sister on a mountainside, then forced her into an Amish settlement at 18 years old. Unfortunately, claiming religious exemption means a parent can fly under the radar ab*sing their chiIdren. Misty now fights back, on a mission to help chiIdren in similar situations, stuck in ab*sive environments, that have no voice. Misty has created a petition called "Child Rights Act" that she hopes will one day become a bill, asking congress to step up and protect these voiceless chiIdren locked in cults. Currently at 33,000+ signatures, she hopes that with your help, in signing, and sharing this video / petition, she can gather enough signatures to get the attention of congress and get this bill passed. Sign petition here: Http://www.Change.org/childrightsact Watch her original interview Find and Support Misty! Buy her book "Tears of the Silenced" IG @mistyelainegriffin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067656562700&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: https://www.mistygriffin.com Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:01:13 Intro 00:02:52 How to help/get involved with the Child Rights Act 00:03:24 What is the goal of the Childs Rights Act? 00:04:41 How mandated reporters help prevent ab*se 00:08:13 What Misty's chiIdhood in the Amish was like 00:13:32 The control and isolation Misty experienced as a chiId 00:23:45 Misty's education and homeschooling experience 00:28:18 How Misty's parents evaded any government interference while homeschooling 00:30:42 Misty joins the Amish and witnesses the perpetual ab*se in the community 00:39:41 How the Child Rights Act addresses the right to religious freedom 00:48:59 Is the problem really bad enough for a federal law? 00:52:32 What is means to take action and make real change Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

CW: CSA… Featured in “Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals” a new four-part docu-series exposing the pred*tory and insidious behavior within the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) Churches – survivor, Ruthy Heiler, shares her account of ab*se as a chiId at the hands of her bible teacher, Aaron Willand. Insidious efforts to cover up pastors’ ab*se, silence survivors, manipulation and suspected cover-ups of other members, Ruthy explains the troubling culture within the IFB, and the stronghold the churches have on its members. As well as her experience pursuing justice against her ab*ser. Watch this episode on YouTube Ruthy is the founding member of the Blind Eye Movement: https://www.instagram.com/blindeyemovement Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:55 Filming “Let Us Prey” 00:04:56 Ruthy's chiIdhood in the IFB 00:06:43 Positive memories in the IFB 00:07:01 Not so positive memories 00:10:17 Ruthy's family rules 00:12:47 Keeping sweet in the IFB 00:13:04 Changing churches 00:14:37 Did family rules change? 00:15:36 Ruthy's family's experience at the new church 00:17:07 Ruthy's sisters come back from the girls' home 00:19:25 Ruthy's mom's experience at the new church 00:20:27 Ruthy's job as a baby sitter for her ab*ser 00:22:27 Ruthy's ab*ser takes steps to get closer to her 00:24:55 How IFB teachings perpetuate ab*se 00:25:42 Ruthy's relationship with her ab*ser's family and their involvement 00:27:43 Lack of s*x education 00:29:09 Ruthy's mental health 00:30:03 When did Ruthy realize what happened? 00:33:28 Going to the police vs the church pastors 00:36:06 Ruthy and her mom go to the police 00:37:16 Timeline of events 00:40:43 Going to Washington for the summer 00:43:59 First court proceedings 00:47:49 The case in Michigan reopens 00:54:00 The Blind Eye Movement 00:55:14 The consistent issue of victims being turned away by church leaders 00:57:44 Should pastors and other church leaders be liable for knowing about and not reporting ab*se? 01:01:25 Where is Ruthy now? 01:02:43 Ruthy's future advocacy plans 01:04:08 Linda, listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Timmy Gibson is a former fundamental Evangelical Pentecostal Pastor who graduated bible college and spent a total of 30 years of his life teaching and preaching the stories in the Bible. 17 years of which were spent preaching in a church he started himself, which grew to 300 followers. Timmy and his congregation believed he was a conduit of God, as well as a “Healing Evangelist” who could save you from illness, as well as teach you how to speak in tongues, and interpret the meaning. Ironically, his “pursuit of truth” lead him to walk away from the Evangelical Christian faith he once held so near and dear to his heart. Timmy now feels he used to be a cult leader. We discuss his experiences, as well as dive into whether or not he has any regrets. Watch this episode on YouTube Find Timmy on social media: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@timmygibsonkc IG: @timmygibsonkc Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:04:30 How Timmy was raised, which led him to going to / getting kicked out of bible college 00:06:20 Bible college was so strict Timmy wasn't allowed in a bar 00:10:15 Why Timmy was compelled to go to bible college 00:11:43 What led to becoming a Pastor 00:13:47 What it was like growing up Pentecostal (speaking in tongues) 00:17:26 Life after bible college 00:18:59 Timmy started his own church with 300 followers 00:21:49 Timmy would teach his congregation how to speak in tongues 00:25:02 Confirmation bias; did Timmy feel he was doing the right thing? 00:29:06 How Timmy felt he intentionally & unintentionally manipulated his followers 00:36:24 What Timmy was doing to successfully grow his church 00:41:51 How Christians feel about Timmy now 00:49:24 Timmy breaks down his "healing sessions" 00:52:59 One of Timmy's biggest regrets is turning away officiating a gay couple’s wedding ceremony 00:58:54 How Timmy grew away from his own theological thinking 01:02:02 Did he send any of this followers into a Faith Crisis? 01:04:53 What ultimately led Timmy away from his church 01:13:33 What does Timmy think about those following a Pastor who doesn't believe the bible is literal? 01:21:25 What Timmy misses from his days as a Pastor 01:25:14 What brings Timmy joy now 01:30:52 Linda, listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

When her well off British family moved to Saudi Arabia near Mecca, Nuriyah Khan ( @HolyHumanist ) lived in two worlds at once— a plush Muslim life inside a compound which protected her from a fundamentalist Islam. Hoping to continue to live a progressive Muslim lifestyle, she married and moved to Dubai. Once her relationship became unsafe, she asked for a separation and was confronted with Sharia law, Islamic religious law that guides the moral and religious lives of Muslims. He relentlessly stalked her along with the Dubai police who were trying to force her to stay with him, confiscating her passport. Watch this episode on YouTube Find Nuriyah on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HolyHumanist Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:04:56 Sunni Muslim, explained 00:05:41 Where Nuriyah grew up and her family's views 00:06:47 Moving to Saudi Arabia 00:09:49 TW: m*rder, v*olence, amp*tations 00:10:03 Sharia law 00:15:14 Witnessing and understanding these things as a chiId 00:17:01 Daily life in Saudi Arabia 00:18:40 TW: r*pe 00:21:06 Did Nuriyah feel safe? 00:23:35 Teenage years in Saudi Arabia 00:25:59 S*x education at an international school in Saudi Arabia 00:27:42 Practicing Islam so close to Mecca 00:31:42 Islam in Dubai 00:32:26 Moving to Dubai 00:33:45 Marrying to date 00:36:41 Things start to change in the relationship 00:44:20 Finally leaving the relationship 00:45:53 Sharia law creates obstacles 00:48:41 Islamic couples counseling and a turn for the worse 00:53:00 Stalking and harassment from Nuriyah's ex-husband and Dubai police 00:55:51 Escaping Dubai 01:01:00 The end of a marriage 01:03:47 Deconstructing Islam 01:12:47 Starting to speak out and starting a YouTube channel 01:19:13 Linda, listen 01:20:44 Outro Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Sometimes becoming more devout can actually spark the biggest faith crisis. When  @ApostateProphet  fiercely read to understand the Quran in depth, there were things he could no longer ignore. Learn about his life growing up Muslim in Germany and Turkey and even at one time becoming a communist. AP’s video: The Scientific Mistakes of the Quran https://youtu.be/8yMD99gyr14?si=X7PHkuOxs8FWRGZa Find and connect with Apostate Prophet! YouTube:  @ApostateProphet  IG @Apostate_Prophet https://www.instagram.com/apostate_prophet Patreon patreon.com/apostateprophet Support Shelise Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! https://cults-to-consciousness-shop.fourthwall.com/en-usd Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann **FULLY BOOKED** Our C2C vacation where we can meet you in real life and go on adventures together has sold out! Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Markers 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:45 Apostate Prophet's story in a nutshell 00:07:11 Why leaving Islam and speaking out can be life threatening 00:09:39 How the Islamic apostasy law is practiced differently among Muslims 00:15:05 Living in Germany as a Muslim 00:18:40 What the Quran says in regards to other religions 00:26:23 Interacting with those outside of Islam in Germany 00:28:50 Moving from Germany to Turkey as a teen 00:34:29 TW: R*pe & M*rder of young girl 00:36:46 Rules that changed in Turkey 00:41:31 TW: CA- when he wouldn't pray as a chiId 00:42:21 Rebelling and joining communist political parties 00:46:55 TW: DV & m*rder- Why AP's aunt was k*lled 00:58:34 Were there ties to Islam for the m*rderer's actions? 01:04:42 Diving deeper into Islam and becoming more religious 01:13:51 Leaving Turkey and leaving Islam 01:18:21 What drove AP to start his channel? 01:23:32 How AP is doing now 01:24:20 Linda, Listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

A product of the first generation of bi-ethnic children in Saudi Arabia, as an Italian-Arab, Jasmin Faulk-Dickerson faced new challenges. She lived a double life. One which was very Western, liberal and open and another which was Eastern, focused on Islamic law and extremely strict. Her heart yearned for a western life, but situation didn’t allow for it. Determined to flee to America with a man she fell in love with, she tricked her father into giving legal permission for her to travel on her own. He didn’t know she would never return. Find and Support Jasmin! IG: @jasmin.faulk.dickerson Website: https://www.jasminfaulkdickerson.com Book: The Last Sandstorm Use “sandstorm” code for 15% off through the end of July! Amazon Podcast: I Want you to Meet Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:13 Growing up with a progressive Italian mother and conservative Saudi father 00:08:14 The difference between culture, race, and religion 00:14:00 Jasmin's upbringing, and the value of a woman 00:16:56 When young girls officially become "women" 00:18:35 Jasmin hid the fact that she had gotten her period 00:20:48 Jasmin clarifies about her region-specific experience 00:23:35 Why young Jasmin thought she had to wear a veil 00:25:15 The s*xualization of chiIdren 00:27:40 Did Jasmin's progressive mom embrace Muslim culture? 00:29:50 What teen life was like for Jasmin 00:32:27 Did Jasmin believe in the religious doctrine? 00:36:28 The shame and guilt 00:38:36 Jasmine breaks down engagements, weddings, marriage from the woman's perspective 00:47:37 Trying to escape by getting married young 00:57:52 How Jasmine tricked her father into getting permission to leave 01:00:57 The tense moment at the airport during Jasmine's escape 01:07:09 Life in Wyoming with her 2nd husband 01:09:09 Jasmine's life turning upside because of 9II 01:11:47 Jasmine finding her own identity 01:16:05 What came of Jasmine's relationship with her family? 01:18:39 Women need male guardian's to give them permission 01:24:07 A devastating end to her 2nd husband's life 01:27:35 Jasmine's new life with her current husband 01:29:03 What brings Jasmin joy now 01:33:31 Linda, listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Blinded by what appeared to be special psychic gifts and years of professional accreditation, Lauren Geertsen fell hard for an energy worker who manipulated her emotionally, financially and spiritually. A predator who had many other victims simultaneously. This is the story of a whistleblower who risked it all and lost almost everything to expose him. Check out Lauren's book: The Scorpion and the Lion Find and support Lauren: YT: @LaurenGeertsen IG: @body_connection_coach Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:34 Spiritual truth paradox 00:05:30 Defining grooming 00:09:11 When someone is unable to give informed consent 00:11:32 Lauren's upbringing and how it laid the groundwork for future ab*se 00:16:16 How religious and purity culture prevents awareness of signs of a predator 00:22:14 S*xual repression in Purity Culture 00:26:06 Going from one end of the spectrum to the other 00:28:04 A divine pathway and higher purpose 00:31:26 The signs of grooming 00:36:50 Spiritual gaslighting 00:40:54 Using spiritual power as a manipulation tactic 00:45:20 Figuring out the truth 01:00:20 Using trauma as an excuse for toxic and bad behavior 01:04:13 Having to dissolve the business 01:08:17 Friendships during the healing journey 01:12:37 Being an example for others on the same journey 01:18:19 How Lauren is doing today 01:22:25 Linda, listen 01:23:07 Outro Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

One of the most sacred tenants of The Order, a fundamentalist polygamous break of sect of the mainstream mormon/LDS church, is living polygamy. Nephi knew he was gay, but hid it most of his life because living authentically was never an option for him. He was essentially assigned a wife at a young age and had 7 children before he realized he couldn’t pretend anymore. His father, who had 14 wives and over 160 children was pushing him to take another wife, so he came out to him. Nephi was told he was gay for various reasons such as eating too much chicken and he needed to stay faithful lest he go to the depths of Hell. Thankfully, he didn’t listen, got out and isn’t hiding his true self any longer. Click here to watch on YouTube Connect with Nephi! FB: Nephi Robinson If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Markers: 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:13 Nephi's polygamous family dynamic 00:03:59 Oldest of 13 kids in immediate family- parentification at 8-10 yrs old 00:05:40 Women are responsible for the chiIdren and income 00:08:42 ChiId labor in The Order 00:11:22 What Nephi's dad Daniel was like 00:15:03 Pre-destined families 00:20:28 Dance cards for betrothals at 16 yrs old 00:26:30 Allowed genres and dance styles for the dances 00:28:08 Being gay was not an option 00:29:55 TW: suic*de ideation 00:32:28 The struggles of being gay with no support 00:34:07 Daniel chose Nephi's college major 00:38:35 The courting process of The Order- no dating till engaged 00:41:53 Nephi's engagement 00:43:28 Plural wives get to make up their last name 00:45:09 Getting married & being pressured to take another wife 00:52:07 Nephi's mom's medical negligence 00:58:19 How Daniel reacted when Nephi came out to him 01:06:45 Nephi's family's reaction to him coming out and leaving 01:09:22 Conversion therapy? 01:15:21 When Nephi left to start a new life, what was it like? 01:18:35 How Nephi is doing now 01:20:28 Linda, Listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Amanda Rae ( @TheAmandaRaeGrant ) shares 3 of her most prominent and shocking post-cult relationships, full of betrayal and manipulation. High control groups, by design, eliminate intuition, manipulate people into doing things they don’t want to do, and make them believe they are freely choosing that lifestyle. This can also happen in relationships. It’s far too common for cult survivors to fall prey to people who can take advantage of their vulnerabilities. Check out Shelise’s horror stories on Amanda’s channel Find and support Amanda! YouTube: ​⁠​⁠ @TheAmandaRaeGrant  IG: @amandaraegrant If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:00 Are bad relationships due to daddy issues? 00:06:43 What it was like growing up in The Order 00:14:29 Living in different mental worlds 00:16:22 The impact of a parent's prejudice on their chiIdren 00:18:14 Issues from the cult that lingered after getting out 00:21:11 Amanda's box of clothes 00:22:54 Cult men and narcissistic tendencies 00:25:01 Amanda's still in the cult mindset after leaving 00:27:32 Spiritual manipulation in relationships 00:29:00 A narcissist's lack of empathy and awareness 00:33:13 Leaving narcissistic relationships vs leaving The Order 00:36:35 Continuously in bad relationships after leaving a cult 00:37:28 Amanda's 2nd toxic relationship 00:45:20 Amanda's toxic behavior 00:51:19 Amanda's 3rd toxic relationship 00:52:02 Issues with love-bombing 00:54:21 Amanda's qualifications for relationships now 00:55:41 Amanda's most recent relationship 00:58:26 Little things that add up 01:01:09 The last straw 01:11:17 The good that came of it and meeting Winston's ex 01:14:00 The saga continues... in court 01:27:37 Emotional intelligence and accountability 01:31:45 What helped Shelise? 01:35:09 Listen, Linda 01:35:47 Outro Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Lindsey Williams of the hit Amazon Prime docu-series, “Shiny Happy People”, was an eager 18 year old when she was hand-picked by cult leader Bill Gothard to work at IBLP headquarters. After grooming her as one of his “Gothard Girls” Gothard would get too close in his one-on-one prayer sessions with her. After being kicked out for kissing a boy, forced to do free labor and write an apology letter to his parents, she finally reconnected with her love. Bill then tried to sabotage her engagement so he could have her in “single years of service” for longer. Watch pt. 1 of Lindsey's interview here IG: ⁠@thecultchronicles⁠ ⁠Lindsey’s hair and make up page⁠⁠ Lindsey’s link tree Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:04:06 How Lindsey ended up at the Training Center 00:05:36 IBLP's "Umbrella of Authority" 00:08:46 Arriving at the Training Center 00:10:15 The free labor she was expected to do 00:14:14 How her health was negatively impacted by the trauma 00:20:33 Lindsey decided to sneakily reconnect with Bryce 00:28:10 Bill Gothard personally tried to sabotage her marriage 00:39:00 "Single service" years? 00:44:31 They finally got the green light to court each other 00:52:16 The beautiful path to Lindsey's new career 01:05:26 What Lindsey wishes they would have aired in the "Shiny Happy People" documentary 01:09:17 What brings Lindsey joy now 01:11:52 Linda, listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Today we are joined by Lindsey Williams of the hit Amazon Prime docu-series, “Shiny Happy People”, exposing the Duggars and Bill Gothard’s IBLP practices. Lindsey dives deep into the lack of education growing up with Gothard’s ATI religious home school program, how she wanted to leave her ab*sive household at 18 and join the famous Gothard (who was seen as a prophet) at head quarters, and how Gothard began to groom her as one of his “Gothard Girls” once he had her alone. IG: @thecultchronicles Lindsey’s hair and make up page Lindsey’s link tree Support Shelise Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:37 IBLP and Bill Gothard, explained 00:07:28 Modesty rules for women in the IBLP 00:11:02 Lindsey explains her home school education with the Words of Wisdom booklets 00:13:19 What Lindsey feels now is lacking from the Words of Wisdom 00:16:23 What the day to day education was like 00:21:11 Did Homeschool ATI-ers have to take a state test? 00:25:04 How Lindsey's parents reacted to the changes made at home 00:28:06 Does Lindsey feel she had a happy chiIdhood? 00:35:50 Lindsey plays a recording of her 18 year old self giving her Testimony at head quarters 00:47:52 Corporal pun*shment is encouraged in the IBLP 00:52:58 How Lindsey ended up at head quarters with Bill Gothard 00:58:18 Gothard preys on Lindsey 01:15:51 Gothard inserts himself as Lindsey's spiritual father (tries to get her mole removed) 01:19:32 Lindsey accidentally had some men sent away, and she was blamed 01:26:17 How Lindsey met her husband (and why he was sent home by Gothard) 01:33:46 After "the kiss" Lindsey is sent to a Training Center 01:36:52 Linda, listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Joined in the studio is friend, comedian, and ex-IBLP “cult kid” Davey Jackson. Having spent his childhood homeschooled by his mother, at 12, his parents decided to incorporate Bill Gothard’s practices into his education. As a form of punishment for having a girlfriend, at 16, Davey was sent to an intense IBLP training center. Instead of correcting his “bad” behavior, Davey further rebelled, which ultimately led him to spend 7 days in the Prayer Room, the center’s solitary confinement, which only had a bible. Davey recounts his losing-touch-with-reality experience, his attempts at escape, and now, all of these years later, going back to the center where the source of his decades of living with trauma began. (Also, Jonathan takes his first shot at a solo interview.) Watch this episode on YouTube here Youtube: @daveyjaxx Instagram: @daveyjax Davey Jackson - The Cult Kid | Full Comedy Special Watch our first interview with Davey Here Shelise and Lindsey Williams interviewed by Davey Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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 Marks 00:04:15 What the Shiny Happy People docu-series was like for those that grew up in the IBLP 00:06:47 IBLP explained 00:09:50 What homeschool and ATI was like for Davey growing up 00:11:09 When Davey started questioning his religious home school education 00:12:47 Davey's parents send him to an education center as a form of punishment 00:16:06 Davey was not allowed to listen to music 00:19:08 What it was like for Davey at the IBLP Training Center 00:23:35 What led Davey to solitary confinement at 16 00:25:51 Similarities within IBLP, IFB, and the "troubled teen" industry 00:27:40 Solitary confinement 00:28:34 Davey tries to break out from the window 00:32:36 The rest of Davey's time at the Training Center 00:34:45 Coming back broken 00:36:06 Davey confronts his parents afterward 00:38:52 Davey using drugs and alcohol to escape and disassociate 00:45:01 When things started looking brighter for Davey 00:46:40 Davey revisits the Training Center all of these years later 00:58:37 It hits Davey once he sees the prayer room windows --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

With immense pressure being one of the sons of the FLDS prophet Warren Jeffs, Ammon would do anything to earn the approval of his father. When he was finally “worthy enough” to be called to the holy land (YFZ Ranch in Texas), he was worked up to 22 hours per day doing hard labor for the church. Assuming Warren truly spoke for God, when he prophesied that the government wanted to come take away the chiIdren, the people were only further convinced he was a prophet considering the 300 police who did just that. Ammon explains how the raid was traumatic for all involved and what it was that finally opened his eyes to who his father really was. Connect with Ammon! IG @ammonjeffs Ammon’s Book Texas Raid If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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 Marks 00:03:43:05 Ammon's childhood as Warren Jeffs' son 00:05:04:21 Warren marries his father, Rulon Jeffs’ wives after dies 00:06:04:08 How many chiIdren did Warren have? 00:06:45:12 Warren becomes prophet during Ammon's chiIdhood 00:07:37:16 FLDS prophet immortality 00:09:57:11 Crisis after Rulon's passing 00:10:58:20 Ammon's father becomes prophet 00:12:37:08 Warren implements changes 00:14:07:18 Warren stops major ordinances 00:15:16:20 FLDS members start to disappear 00:17:43:04 Ammon's mom's health declines 00:22:42:05 Ammon is called to move to the Texas Ranch 00:26:45:08 Ammon's job on the Ranch 00:27:49:05 Warren orders a large compound to be built 00:29:27:18 Were Warren's chiIdren treated differently on the Ranch? 00:31:26:10 Religious pun*shments and atonement 00:34:35:11 Was Warren Jeffs' just putting on a show? 00:36:46:23 Warren Jeffs' is caught by law enforcement 00:38:38:06 The Texas Raid 00:39:20:20 Allegations of abuse from a resident at the Ranch 00:41:30:05 Who called CPS? 00:43:40:07 The Raid in a chiId's point of view 00:47:17:04 Only those worthy enough can be on temple grounds 00:49:18:18 Evidence found 00:50:32:04 After the raid 00:51:49:19 Ammon in charge at the boys camp 00:53:05:14 Living conditions at the boys camp 00:54:44:02 Birthday at the boys camp 00:56:20:14 Sneaking off the boys camp at night 00:57:37:17 Going back to the FLDS ranch in Texas 00:59:15:13 Communication with Warren in the months after the raid 01:00:00:18 New requirements and revelations from Warren while in prison 01:03:36:22 Warren's information control from prison 01:08:00:00 Becoming an apostate 01:09:37:00 Warren starts meetings again 01:10:30:10 Warren excludes Ammon and most members from the meetings 01:11:49:06 Ammon's sisters leave 01:12:41:11 Warren's most recent revelations 01:14:50:19 Ammon's youngest sister visits apostate family members 01:17:53:07 TW: SA 01:19:03:13 Ammon learns the truth 01:20:53:12 TW: CSA 01:23:44:08 How Ammon is doing now 01:28:57:20 Linda, listen! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

As the 13th wife of FLDS leader Warren Jeffs, Ada Marie was extremely devout in her faith and belief in her prophet and husband. Even from prison, the entire church population was conditioned to believe he was innocent and persecuted by the government. However, as the years went on, Ada explains how his prophesies and commandments would get more and more odd and demanding. He would continue splitting up families, send people all over different states, disfellowship, then re-baptize and for some, completely cut them off. Ada was sent away for what was supposed to be 10 months. Five years later, she realized even if he allowed her back home, she wouldn’t go. This is the slow process of how she deconstructed from the fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Watch pt. 1 of Ada's interview here Watch this episode on YouTube here Connect with Ada! IG: @adadraper1 FB: Ada Draper Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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 Markers: 00:04:13 Does Warren believe his own theatrics? 00:10:04 How Warren treated Ada Marie 00:15:27 How many wives Warren had and how they always had to be "ready" 00:23:10 Warren's wild instructions from prison 00:26:22 Warren gave revelation to take away certain foods 00:30:25 The rollercoaster of Warren's revelations- forced to move 00:35:56 Ada Marie's mother is pun*shed and sent away as a "forever non-member" 00:41:44 Warren doesn't let a woman get lifesaving healthcare 00:43:59 Warren sends Ada Marie away from the "faithful" 00:50:06 She had to find her first job in her 30s in the "outside world" 00:52:34 When she first wore pants instead of her FLDS dress 00:55:59 Learning that outsiders were good people 00:57:53 TW: CSA- Warren m*lested his own daughters 00:59:50 Ada Marie starts to wonder if she actually wants to go back 01:14:39 How Ada Marie is doing now! 01:19:39 Linda, Listen --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Warren Jeffs, currently in prison for CSA, is the leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, otherwise known as the FLDS. He claims that God commanded him to take dozens of wives, some of whom were as young as 12 years old. In his enormous temple/compound that his members built in Texas, he conducted what he called “heavenly sessions” which were essentially big orgies with his wives, which he taped. Ultimately, his disturbing records is what got him put into prison, but he continues to send revelations, which get more and more outlandish, to his faithful members on the outside. Watch this episode on YouTube here Watch pt. 2 of Ada's interview here Connect with Ada! IG: @adadraper1 FB: Ada Draper Support Shelise + Jonathan Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast **FULLY BOOKED** Our C2C vacation where we can meet you in real life and go on adventures together has sold out! However,  you can add yourself to our waitlist in case of cancellations.   Click here to go to the official booking page Our Merch!Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousnessVenmo @sheliseannAny donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcastWebsite CultsToConsciousness.comFind Shelise on Social media!Instagram @cultstoconsciousnessHost Instagram @sheliseannTikTok @cults.to.consciousnessTwitter @cultstoconTheme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara**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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

An ex-Muslim man converts his entire family to Mormonism when missionaries knock on his door. His stroke of genius combined with schizophrenia and tendency towards extreme punishments and every type of ab*se, created a cult-like environment for his chiIdren. He created his own religion and wrote a 2422 page manuscript of his own holy text. We take a look at his mindset and life through the lens of his son Adrian. Adding further clarification and commentary on generational trauma, Sami, Adrian’s daughter, joins us. Find Sami on social media: YouTube @mildwestsami IG: @mild_west_sami Support Shelise Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast **FULLY BOOKED** Our C2C vacation where we can meet you in real life and go on adventures together has sold out! However, you can add yourself to our waitlist in case of cancellations. Click here to go to the official booking page Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon Venmo @sheliseann Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara Adrian's father's chiIdhood in India and transition to America Effraim's mental illness impact Adrian's traumatic chiIdhood dynamics Adrian's guilt and shame and its breeding ground for Mormonism Growing up with drugs in the home TW: CSA How boys and girls were treated differently Converting to Mormonism How things changed in Adrian's household after converting Justifying Mormon beliefs Adrian's father becomes a prophet What Effraim's Book of the Priesthood of God contains The Table of Contents Is Effraim's Book historically accurate? Effraim becoming God TW: Suicide ideation Adrian standing up to his father's abuse Adrian's relationship with his mom during all everything happening with his father Sami's chiIdhood and the impact of Mormonism Leaving Mormonism and becoming authentic What happened with Adrian's father? **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

Outsiders often criticize Mormonism for its wild beliefs and the scandalous actions of the founding prophet Joseph Smith, but the member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are left in the dark about the truth of it history. Carah Burrell  @CarahBurrell  and Shelise, examine the life and actions of Joseph Smith from a non-faith promoting, historical view, different from their Mormon upbringing. From the ugly truth about polygamy, a Mormon Militia, and original secret temple rituals to Joseph Smith’s personal hit man, we cover it all! Carah's Greece opportunity has passed Find Carah on social media: YouTube IG @nuancehoe **FULLY BOOKED** Our C2C vacation where we can meet you in real life and go on adventures together has sold out! However, you can add yourself to our waitlist in case of cancellations. Click here to go to the official booking page https://trovatrip.com/trip/central-america/costa-rica/costa-rica-with-shelise-sola-aug-2024 Support Shelise Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! https://cults-to-consciousness-shop.fourthwall.com/en-usd Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness https://www.instagram.com/cultstoconsiousness Host Instagram @sheliseann https://www.instagram.com/sheliseann/ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness https://www.tiktok.com/@cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon https://twitter.com/cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:04:01 Different branches of the Mormon church 00:08:57 Joseph Smith's early life & the fraud he was committing 00:11:59 The Book of Mormon as the keystone to the religion 00:16:27 Joseph Smith 00:29:13 Using women to manipulate other women 00:30:26 The "Happiness Letter" used to manipulate a young girl into marrying JS 00:37:27 The tactics JS used to score wives 00:42:27 Revelations at convenient times 00:45:48 How JS "translated" these holy revelations 00:55:29 How the LDS church hides truth 01:01:55 Ritualistic Free Mason temple ceremonies 01:11:25 Original temple rituals that were taken out 01:12:28 How did it end for JS? 01:26:19 Porter Rockwell- a hit man for JS 01:28:02 Back to the martyrdom of JS 01:34:59 Emma, the first wife of JS started her own branch 01:37:56 Why is there so much Mormon true crime happening now? 01:42:49 Linda, Listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

*Content Warning: self harm, physical abuse*  Anonymous YouTuber Apostate Aladdin shares his story of becoming a man in an environment that used fear to keep boys and girls and men and women separated. This intense fear that men need to be kept away so they don’t act on their uncontrollable desires, left him feeling scared, targeted, alone and shameful. Here we learn about purity culture through a different lens and how he was able to overcome his fear of interacting with women so he could create positive friendships and relationships.Click here to watch on YouTubeLive episodes together where we discuss the similarities and differences between Islam and Mormonism:Part 1Part 2Part 3Find Apostate AladdinYouTube: @apostatealaddinIG: @apostatealaddinLinkTree**FULLY BOOKED** Our C2C vacation where we can meet you in real life and go on adventures together has sold out! However,  you can add yourself to our waitlist in case of cancellations.   Click here to go to the official booking page Why AA wears a mask and has a pseudonym Specifically AA's experience & not every Muslim's experience Apostate as a derogatory term What kind of interactions were allowed with the opposite sex A young AA getting in trouble for liking a girl TW: CA- What happened when AA was caught texting a girl Vague rules within the purity culture he experienced Even young boys weren't allowed certain places alone What these restrictions did to the minds of boys and men The nightmare of puberty What happened when AA realized masturbation was considered a sin The pilgrimage- feeling unworthy  Was dating allowed? Does the hypersexualizaiton create odd turn ons? When did AA start pushing the boundaries? When did AA begin to have healthy interactions with women? What did AA find about Islam that he didn't resonate with? Did he convert his GF to being a Muslim? Where did AA land in his spirituality and relationships? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support

*Content Warning: Many mentions of physical abuse &  sexual abuse*  Tricked into moving to Iraq at age 14, Ellaf was separated from her mother and forced into a chiId marriage by her father who felt she was too much of a burden to raise. Ellaf’s husband was even more controlling than her father and knew that he could get away with hurting her in many ways, because she was alone in an unfamiliar country and didn’t know the culture or the language. Forbidden to use birth control, she had 3 chiIdren before she was 21 years old and after years of suffering, courageously stood up to both her husband and father and got away. This is her story of perseverance and victory against all odds.Click here to watch on YouTubeConnect with EllafIG @ellaf_altamimi**FULLY BOOKED** Our C2C vacation where we can meet you in real life and go on adventures together has sold out!  However, you can add yourself to our waitlist in case of cancellations.  Click here to go to the official booking page  Our Merch! Patreon: Patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast Website CultsToConsciousness.com Find Shelise on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **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.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cults-to-consciousness/support