Forgive Me For I Have Followed

In this episode of the Netflix podcast, You Can't Make This Up, host Rebecca Lavoie interviews Dancing With The Devil director Derek Doneen and executive producer Jessica Acevedo about the making of their documentary. Dancing For the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult tells the story of the coercive church, its former members, and the performers still dancing online. It exposes the diabolical tactics used by cult-like organizations to exert control over people as well as the lengths families will go to keep their loved ones safe.SPOILER ALERT! If you haven't watched Dancing For the Devil yet, make sure to add it to your watch-list before listening on. Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we chat with Angela Derrick, former wife of 7M dancer James “B-Dash” Derrick. Angela recounts their initial pairing and eventual marriage within a cult-like environment, sharing the moment she realized she needed to leave. She discusses how her decision led to their divorce and her journey as a single parent. Angela also offers her perspective on the Dancing for the Devil documentary and its unsettling parallels to her own experiences. Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this exclusive two-part interview, we speak with Melanie Wilking, a dancer and content creator featured in the documentary series Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult. Melanie and her sister Miranda, formerly the Wilking Sisters, faced a turning point when Miranda was drawn into the 7M organization. In a courageous move, Melanie and her parents went live on Instagram to expose the situation. Melanie shares her family's journey since the docuseries, her experiences with Shekinah, and the emotional toll of Miranda's decision to stay. She discusses their ongoing efforts to reconnect with her sister and the important lessons learned along the way. Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conclusion to our two-part interview, we continue our conversation with Melanie Wilking, a dancer and content creator featured in the Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult documentary. Melanie and her sister Miranda, formerly known as the Wilking Sisters, created content together until Miranda was drawn into the 7M organization. Melanie and her parents raised awareness about the situation through an Instagram Live. In this discussion, Melanie shares her journey since the docuseries, her experience with Shekinah, and the emotional impact of Miranda’s choice to stay. She also highlights the family's ongoing efforts to reunite with her sister and the important lessons learned along the way.   Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Quincee Gideon, a psychologist and therapist, about the factors that attract individuals to controlled communities and what drives them to seek escape. We examine Shekinah Church and 7M Films, highlighting how these organizations stand apart from other cult-like groups. Additionally, we provide insights into effective solutions and ways to support those entangled in high-control environments. Join us for an enlightening discussion on this vital topic!   Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, former Shekinah Church member Amanda shares her personal journey, beginning with her current emotional state and the reasons for finally sharing her story. She recounts her connection with the church and Robert Shinn, her meeting and marrying her husband there, and the support she expected from the community, as well as her various roles within the church. The conversation then shifts to pivotal moments, such as her realization of Robert's true nature, her challenging wedding experience, and her husband’s evolving reaction to the accusations against Robert. Finally, we discuss the steps she took to protect herself from manipulation after leaving the church, along with insights on deprogramming, changes in her perspective on faith and community, and advice for those currently in or leaving cult-like situations. Listener Note: This episode contains discussions of sexual abuse and trauma and may not be suitable for all listeners.  Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The director of the documentary series joins the show to discuss his experience in bringing the story of Shekinah Church and 7M to life. He explains why it was crucial to present the narrative from the perspective of former members. He also shares the cinematic influences that shaped the visual style of the series. Derek talks about how the documentary aims to support individuals facing similar struggles and describes the significant effort his team made, including traveling to Korea, to capture an emotional conversation between the Lee sisters.   Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, we catch up with Kevin "Konkrete" Davis to learn about his journey since leaving Shekinah Church and 7M Films. He shares how “Krumping” led him to the church, reflects on his challenging experiences there, and explains why it ultimately wasn’t the right fit. Kevin also discusses his growing relationship with his wife, Kailea, and his current pursuits in life, art and dance.   Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  In the conclusion to our conversation,, we dive deeper into Kevin “Konkrete” Davis’s challenges with Shekinah Church and 7M Films. He reveals the key moments and conversations that helped him realize the changes he needed to make, as well as the fallout from his decision to leave and forge his own path forward.   Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’re joined by Andrew, a former member of Shekinah for over six years in the early 2000s. He shares his journey into the world of the church, how his labor was exploited, and how much of his experience was shaped by his various roles within the cult. He also discusses the disturbing accusations against Pastor Robert Shinn that ultimately led him to leave. Finally, Andrew explains his decision to come forward and how he has reconciled with his spiritual programming. Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, investigative journalist Sarah Berman (Author of Don’t Call It a Cult: The Shocking Story of Keith Raniere and the Women of NXIVM) discusses her reporting on NXIVM and cults. She shares insights into the emotional and ethical challenges of working with survivors, the evolving language around cults, and offers advice on spotting red flags. Sarah also addresses the legal hurdles cults face and what needs to change to better protect victims and hold organizations accountable. Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  In this episode, we sit down with  the Haleys, creators of Stop Culting and Exposing 7M, and Katie Joy, creator of Without a Crystal Ball, to explore the dark world of Shekinah Church and 7M Films. The Haleys  share their journeys of uncovering the manipulative practices of Robert Shinn and his church, while Katie discusses her personal connection to the Wilking family's story and her extensive work exposing high-control groups. Despite facing legal threats, harassment, and emotional tolls, all three remain dedicated to helping survivors and fighting for justice. Tune in for their powerful insights on the ongoing battle to expose cults and raise awareness about the dangers of manipulation and exploitation. Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.   *The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.