DiscoverCults to Consciousness
Cults to Consciousness
Claim Ownership

Cults to Consciousness

Author: Shelise Ann Sola

Subscribed: 695Played: 48,521
Share

Description


Survivor stories of claiming independence after leaving high-control groups & people. 

Cults to Consciousness is a YouTube channel and podcast, hosted by Shelise Ann Sola (a former devout Mormon & CSA survivor) and her Producer husband, Jonathan Rosales.  

C2C delves into the nuanced experiences of individuals who have escaped a broad spectrum of high-control groups and coercive environments.  They are not anti-religious but firmly anti-abuse, aiming to shed light on manipulative practices and systems, while promoting compassion, understanding, and accountability.  C2C has attracted a kind and engaged community who thoughtfully support their guests. Follow to join them on their advocacy mission.


359 Episodes
Reverse
CHAPTER MARKS NOT AVAILABLEMandi Pagliarini was thrown into Alcoholics Anonymous as a teen when her parents caught her drinking, and overreacted. She was lured into loving summer boarding camps with cute boys and fun activities, so immediately following high school graduation, the thought of being full time boarded with the group sounded fun and necessary for her health. Unfortunately, a bait and switch quickly happened when she realized that in this particular group, all sponsors and authority lead directly to the man at the top named Mike. He started micromanaging every single aspect of their lives including specific diets, where they went and even, who he thought they should be sleeping with. Young teens were given to 30+ year old men for “their own good” and this included Mike himself who was in his 50s. If compliance was not given, they were berated in front of the whole group. Mandi’s parents were still under the impression that she needed to be there, even though she had nothing close to resembling alcoholism, so she was left feeling alone and afraid of the outside world. After attempting to leave twice, it finally stuck and after drastically overcorrecting, she found her way. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and Support Mandi!IG @mandiptalkspredators Substack: https://mandiptalkspredators.substack.com/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.
Today Shelise takes the hot seat to be interviewed by husband and co-producer Jonathan Rosales. A brief discussion about Mormonism and the various shapes it can take in people’s lives gives more context to why Shelise feels it is a cult/high control group. They discuss the light hearted aspects of leaving the cult bubble such as being out of the loop with pop culture. Then, for the first time, Shelise goes into depth about the CSA from her past and how it not only affects her daily life, but her life as a host who platforms other trauma survivors. Other hardships with running the channel while going through intense personal challenges are spoken of in detail which leads them to extreme gratitude for their audience and community who has gathered to support their guests and the cause. Click here to watch on YouTubeSubscribe 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 Intro00:05:08 Why Shelise feels she's a Cult Survivor, having left Mormonism00:11:22 Does Shelise feel more "connected" to society now that she's more caught up on pop culture?00:18:36 What it feels like for Shelise to be Agnostic00:22:21 Did Shelise ever think she would interview Cult Survivors for a living?00:28:27 How Shelise handles the trauma offload from hosting interviews each week?00:30:59 Shelise discusses the ab*se she experienced from her father00:34:18 What's it been like for Jonathan having to be a container for Shelise00:34:40 Moments Shelise broke down after conducting interviews00:39:52 Does Shelise have a relationship with her father now?00:51:30 Confronting the ab*se from Shelise's father, now that Shelise & Jonathan have a daughter00:54:55 Shelise & Jonathan discuss their m*scarriage01:02:25 Being pregnant while interviewing Cult Survivors01:04:13 Jonathan on producing Cults to Consciousness01:10:28 Did Jonathan feel they would be successful in the beginning?01:13:10 The time Shelise had psychic readings done01:17:35 Jonathan & Shelise on filming their own documentary01:23:23 C2C Officially launches Channel Memberships!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Carah Burrell and Ryan Fisher have continued to cover the Tim Ballard scandal since it was leaked two years ago that he had plans to become the new LDS prophet and take over the government through white nationalism. He was using his “connections” with the now deceased apostle Ballard (no relation) to bolster his cause at Operation Underground Railroad, which evidence has now suggested it was all a ruse, including allegedly luring women into SA situations by Tim during their “raids”. The LDS church responded swiftly with an ex-communication, severing his membership and ego. He has since been trying to appeal that decision multiple times, however, simultaneously alleging that the LDS church is full of Satanic Ritual ab*se of children and denouncing leadership. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and Support Carah and Ryan:Carah's YT: https://www.youtube.com/@CarahBurrellCarah's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/nuancehoeThe LATEST Video on Tim: https://youtu.be/q3F-lBMaGw4?si=pEkCtD9k_bdGX5lu Original interview on Last Dispensation:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knWZW93jvjkJulie Green Rant: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yTBLjtbwbADonorbox: https://donorbox.org/thanks-for-the-amazing-content-carah-let-me-help-you-keep-it-fundedVenmo: CarahB: https://account.venmo.com/u/CarahB Patreon exclusives: https://tinyurl.com/3r2jurckLet's get in touch! timmydidwhatpodcast@gmail.com or thenuancehoe@gmail.comRyan's Info!Substack: https://ryanfisherak78.substack.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/ryanfisherak78/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NephiteExplorerSubscribe 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 Rosei Quartz, today we go LIVE with her to further discuss her time with her threatening Adventist husband. Rosei was born a Seventh-Day Adventist where her father eventually became a charismatic and highly performative pastor in the church. She attended private Adventist schools and was constantly the center of her father’s fake sermons. Rosei’s mother got chronically ill and was ignored, being told her symptoms were made up for attention. She ended up passing suspiciously and Rosei’s father was married again 4 months later. Rosei ended up in an Adventist marriage which ended up being extremely toxic. Upon asking for a divorce, she was called a witch and even “hexed her husband with COVlD”. He then threatened to disappear her into Adventist conversion therapy if she tried to leave. Escaping and fearing for her life, she frantically grew a social media following in hopes it would protect her.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch the intiial interview with RoseiFind Rosei on social media:Twitch: twitch.tv/roseiquartzIG: @roseiquartzofficial  Discord:  https://discord.gg/MZqsvXUZHNTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@roseiquartzSubscribe 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.
NO TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODERosei Quartz was part of the Seventh Day Adventist church in Canada where her father became a very performative and charismatic Pastor. It never felt authentic to Rosei and things got worse when he started using stories (which were most likely fabricated) about her in his very public sermons. This put an unwelcome target on her back as a chiId that stuck with her throughout her years in the church. When her mother became chronically ill, it was believed that she was either making it up for attention, or just wasn’t being faithful enough to be well. Rosei watched helplessly as her mother withered away before her eyes, even losing her teeth to this unknown cause. What’s worse, her mother suspiciously passed when Rosei was at college and years later she found out through her autopsy that she died of a fentanyl overdose. Lies upon lies built even though an adventist marriage until she finally escaped it all. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch our LIVE with RoseiFind Rosei on social media:Twitch: twitch.tv/roseiquartzIG: @roseiquartzofficial  Discord:  https://discord.gg/MZqsvXUZHNTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@roseiquartzSubscribe 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.
As a teenager, devoted to her faith, Carrie Saum felt being born a woman was a punishment. Her mother was a strongly devout Christian woman who implored on Carrie that if she didn’t go to Russia on a teen mission trip, Russians would go to Hell and their blood would be on her hands. These teen trips were mostly run by other young adults who put the kids in ill*gal and morally questionable situations. However, nothing was off the table when it came to showing your devotion to God. In fact, dying a martyr is what Carrie assumed would happen to her. She didn’t realize she had any other choice. Now she is committed to exposing the “Honor Academy” for what it is/was. A way to exploit teens for their time, money and labor, to create an army of unquestioning, obedient adults. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind Carrie on social media:TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@carriesaumIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriesaumSubscribe 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 Intro00:03:51 Carrie's part in the documentary00:08:15 Carrie's upbringing00:13:53 Acquire the Fire00:20:52 Carrie drops out of college to join the internship program00:28:58 What it was like when Carrie's parents moved out of state00:32:17 Carrie's time in Russia00:42:56 The Honor Academy00:55:36 Columbine00:59:24 ESOAL01:10:09 How the martyr mindset affected Carrie01:19:07 After deconstruction01:21:49 What brings Carrie joy 01:23:24 Linda ListenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Amy Duggar, cousin to the famous Duggar family from TLC’s “19 Kids and Counting” exposes what life was REALLY like on and off the big screen. Her own childhood was plagued by a narcissistic and cruel father who would constantly take her on a roller coaster of ups and downs. Her grandfather (Jim Bob & her mother’s father) was also a character that parents knew could not be alone with their kids. However, there was even a time in her childhood when her grandfather lived in her home.  Today we zoom in on life in an abusive home, the chaos and the confusion, in contrast with the life of luxury on camera and what that did to her mental health. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch our initial interview with AmyAmy’s Book: Holy Disruptor: Shattering the Shiny Facade by Getting Louder with the TruthIG: @amyrachelleking TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@amyrkingSubscribe 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 EPISODEAmy Duggar, cousin to the famous Duggar family from TLC’s “19 Kids and Counting” exposes what life was REALLY like on and off the big screen. Her own childhood was plagued by a narcissistic and cru*l father who would constantly take her on a roller coaster of ups and downs. Meanwhile, her uncle Jim Bob’s family seemed to have everything together. Perfectly behaved children combined with an ideal and picture perfect lifestyle left her desiring a home as loving and wholesome as theirs. However, once she was invited into their family on a more regular basis (when the producer saw money signs in Amy’s outspoken personality) the facade slowly faded when she realized her cousins were never allowed to have “negative feelings” or speak critically of other family members. Even if that meant sacrificing their own safety. She would learn the true character of one of her best friends and cousins, Josh Duggar; a secret that would shock the world. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch our LIVE with Amy answering your questionsAmy’s Book: Holy Disruptor: Shattering the Shiny Facade by Getting Louder with the TruthIG: @amyrachelleking TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@amyrkingSubscribe 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.
Thembi Buthelezi came to America from South Africa, becoming very successful in New York City. Her sister back home was deeply involved in a cult there, who told her she could syphon her sister’s life through magic and sacrifice. Thembi’s life started falling apart the minute her sister arrived in her home and she knew something was wrong. Thembi distanced herself from her sister, went to ministerial school and ended up in Los Angeles at the famous mystical church called Agape. Little did she know, she would end up falling for the charms of a charismatic South African “Prophet” who was preaching at Agape on healing ancestral trauma. The same cult leader her sister had been involved in. A trip to Ghana to the cult headquarters would end up revealing a dark world riddled with secret sex magic and coercive techniques to trick white American women into giving up their marriages, fortunes and mind to the cult. The damage done took Thembi years as a buddhist nun to unravel and piece her life back together. Now, she is determined to warn everyone about this false prophet.Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and Support ThembiYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thembibuthelezi/Website: https://www.thembibuthelezi.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.**Chapter Marks00:00:00 Intro00:04:12 Thembi Introduces Herself and Her Background00:08:50 Comparisons Between Churches in Africa vs America00:13:44 The Areas of Your Life The Cult Targets00:18:21 When Thembi Was Initially Targeted By the Cult & Her Sister's Involvement00:25:32  Thembi’s First Introductions to the Cult & Her Spiritual Journey00:34:09 Thembi’s First Introductions to the Leader of the Cult00:38:41 Beginning Initiations into the Cult & Recognizing Strange Behaviors00:43:23 What the Cult Leader Asked Thembi To Do - S*xual Rituals & Other Cult Practices00:48:08 More of the Witchcraft Practices Present in the Cult00:50:30 The Cult's Tactics to Increase Followers00:55:38 Sat*nic Practices Within the Cult00:59:07 The Goals of the Cult01:02:51 CW: Mentions of Human Sacr*fice, the Darker Aspects and Practices of the Cult01:10:01 CW: Mentions of Su*cide, How Thembi Escaped the Cult's Influence and Her Time as a Bhuddist Nun01:16:38 Thembi’s Healing and Beginning to Expose the Cult01:24:04 Thembi’s Life Today01:26:28 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.
Charlotte Hayes was adopted as a baby to Seventh-Day Adventist parents who used the doctrine to h*rm her in unimaginable ways. She was forced to eat raw vegan, not given adequate nutrients and kept dang*rously thin, while the rest of the family ate normally. On top of that, CSA started happening at age 7 and she was told it was to prepare her for being a wife. Charlotte will further discuss her former mother’s obsessions with the health doctrine of SDA and how she weap*nized against Charlotte.Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 1 of Charli's initial interviewWatch pt 2 of Charli's initial interviewFind Charlotte on social media:tiktok: @charli.hayes IG @charlihayes_  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.
Charlotte was adopted as a baby to Seventh Day Adventist parents who used the doctrine to harm her in unimaginable ways. More details on her childhood can be found in part one linked below. Finally, at 18 years old, she enlisted a couple friends through Snapchat to help her escape just days before her former father, who made threats on her life for exposing his abuse, returned home. With only a bag of clothes, an erased iPad and a notebook with handwritten contacts, she did her best to survive in a world she had been completely sheltered from. Including confronting her former parents in an attempt to get more of her belongings, then falling into another predatory living situation. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 1 of Charlotte's interviewFind Charlotte on social media:tiktok: @charli.hayes IG @charlihayes_  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 Markers00:00:00 Intro00:02:05 Recap00:03:38 Charlotte plans her escape00:19:39 Finding work after running away00:26:42 Returning to her old church00:28:46 CW r*pe00:32:57 Moving away from her strict diet00:35:06 Living with another secret pred*tor00:36:19 Confronting her former parents after escaping00:44:02 Deconstructing fear and shame00:50:25 Charlotte leaning into her s*xual preferences00:56:58 Meet Hadley00:57:29 What brings Charlotte joy now01:03:09 Linda, listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
CW: CSA, rape.  Charlotte Hayes was adopted as a baby to Seventh-Day Adventist parents who used the doctrine to harm her in unimaginable ways. She was forced to eat raw vegan, not given adequate nutrients and kept dangerously thin, while the rest of the family ate normally. On top of that, CSA started happening at age 7 and she was told it was to prepare her for being a wife. When signs of physical abuse caught the attention of her public school, they got CPS involved, but the system was a colossal failure and only made it worse at home. She even reported the violence to an SDA pastor who then reported it to the higher councils of the church, but they did nothing. Click here to watch on YouTubeWatch pt 2 of Charlotte's interviewFind Charlotte on social media:tiktok: @charli.hayes IG @charlihayes_  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 Markers00:00:00 Intro00:03:23 Charlotte’s adoption into an SDA family00:09:18 Strict upbringing00:15:21 Adopted to be h*rmed00:16:38 TW: CSA from her adopted father00:20:30 How purity culture at church mentally clashed with CSA at home 00:25:46 Charlotte's experience in public school00:33:14 Teachers started to notice signs of ab*se00:42:23 Being gay in strict purity culture00:45:54 Experience at boarding school00:50:54 Washing each other's feet at school...00:54:08 Charlotte's breaking point01:02:21 Plotting the escape01:07:29 Linda listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
CW: CSA. Jacinta LeGore was born and raised in the Jehovah’s Witnesses. After being forced to confess that she had been CSA’d, then subsequently punished for it, it lead her down a shame spiral. Feeling worthless, she decided to get married at 16 to hopefully heal the part of her that the Elders and her parents thought was “impure”. The marriage ended up being another painful situation which ended in being disfellowshipped. She was immediately cut off from her family and friends, with no real lifeline in the outside world. When Jacinta became pregnant, her parents expected to see the chiId, because a loophole states that if someone has never been baptized, one does not have to shun them. However, they were still actively shunning Jacinta, treating her less than human, so she cut off all contact. Jacinta’s parents threatened her with “grandparents’ legal rights” when she would no longer let them see her daughter, even though she was disfellowshipped and cut off herself. The final straw came when  she picked up her daughter from her parents’ and the person who ab*sed her was there. Now she is navigating life, choosing to keep toxic relationships far from her and her daughter for her own mental health. Click here to watch on YouTubeFind and support JacintaIG @piercingsbyjacintah 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 Markers00:00:00 Intro00:03:11 Jacinta’s Strict ChiIdhood in the JW's00:08:15 CW: CSA, Damaging Experiences as a ChiId00:13:23 CW: CSA, Jacinta’s Judicial Process experience00:19:30 Punishment & Choosing to Get Married at 1600:23:55 Life After Getting Married00:27:43 The End of Jacinta’s Marriage and Being Disfellowshipped00:34:10 Shunning Jacinta has Received From Her Parents00:38:21 Persecution Complex of High Control Groups00:42:10 The Aftermath of Setting Boundaries With Parents00:45:54 Deconstructing the JW's00:49:36 How Jacinta is doing now00:53:52 Linda, listen00:55:10 Final thoughtsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Alissa Watson comes back to update us with some news of her father. She was a devout Jehovah’s Witness through adulthood, marriage and two children, despite a birthing scare that could’ve taken a dark turn if she ended up needing a blood transfusion. Her husband knew his wife was not allowed to receive blood due to the strict doctrine around it, but he was not willing to lose his wife over it. This sent him down a deeply researched deconstruction path which ended up leading them both out of the religion. However, one cannot simply leave the faith and maintain their life as they know it. Friends, family, church members and any devout JW is forced to implement strict shunning. Overnight, they lost everyone. Alissa shares how her father asked for a meeting (2 years after cutting her off) and how reality set in when she realizes his true intentions. Click here to watch on YouTubeCatch C2C on Alissa’s channelWatch Alisa’s initial interviewFind Alissa on Social:YouTube: @athomewithalissa https://www.youtube.com/@athomewithalissaIG: @athome_withalissa  https://www.instagram.com/athome_withalissaTikTok: @athomewithalissa https://www.tiktok.com/@athomewithalissaSubscribe 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 Intro00:04:11 Background on the JW's and Alissa's story00:07:34 The JW's shunning practices00:12:34 Atributes of high-control groups00:17:43 The day-to-day of being shunned00:23:58 Alissa's complicated communication with her father00:30:21 Alissa confronts her father00:36:31 Discussing CSA in the JW faith 00:44:10 Doubling down on shunning00:50:22 Family relationships & the effect on Alissa's children since leaving00:55:31 Alissa's husband's experience since leaving 01:01:28 Updates and final thoughtsSee 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, 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.
loading
Comments (5)

Pattie Phillips-Meyers

I have a friend that was involved with all the aspects of Teen Mania. So sad for him and all who were involved.

Sep 28th
Reply

Pattie Phillips-Meyers

Lindsey sounds like Sandra Bullock

Dec 7th
Reply

Daniel Cole

you're mom is a You're beautiful. women wow

Apr 4th
Reply

Daniel Cole

I am so glad I'm atheist And I'm glad I've been this way since I was about 11. And my parents never made me go to church. I think the universe Proud to be atheist.

Apr 3rd
Reply

stephanie kendell

can't hear the person you're interviewing

Jan 27th
Reply
loading