Digest

This episode of "You Can't Make This Up" delves into the Netflix documentary series "Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult." The podcast features interviews with director Derek Donine and executive producer Jessica Acevedo, who discuss the origins of the Shakaina Church, the manipulative tactics used by its leader Robert Shin, and the impact of TikTok on the dance community. The episode highlights the story of the Wilking sisters, whose parents went public with their concerns about their daughter's involvement with 7M Management. The podcast explores the complex dynamics within families affected by the cult, the challenges of reconciliation, and the importance of sharing these stories to help others who may be experiencing similar situations. The episode also delves into the artistic choices made in the documentary, including the use of dance scenes to convey the emotions of the subjects.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the podcast "You Can't Make This Up" and its host, Rebecca LaVoy. The episode focuses on the Netflix documentary series "Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult."

00:00:06

The 7M TikTok Cult

This Chapter provides an overview of the Netflix documentary series "Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult." The series explores the story of the 7M Management Company, which is alleged to have cult-like practices, and its impact on young dancers who sought fame on TikTok.

00:01:55

Interview with Director and Producer

This Chapter features an interview with Derek Donine, director of "Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult," and Jessica Acevedo, executive producer. They discuss how they became involved in the project, the origins of the Shakaina Church, and the manipulative tactics used by its leader, Robert Shin.

00:07:59

TikTok's Impact on Dance

This Chapter explores the impact of TikTok on the dance community, highlighting the opportunities and challenges it presents for aspiring dancers. The discussion focuses on the monetization of dance content and the potential for exploitation.

00:13:10

Family Dynamics

This Chapter examines the role of family in the documentary, focusing on the story of the Wilking sisters and their parents. The discussion explores the challenges of reconciliation and the impact of the cult on family relationships.

00:23:00

Artistic Choices

This Chapter delves into the artistic choices made in the documentary, particularly the use of dance scenes to convey the emotions of the subjects. The discussion highlights the importance of allowing the subjects to tell their stories through their own self-expression.

Keywords

Q&A

• How did the story of the 7M cult come to the attention of Jessica Acevedo?

  Jessica Acevedo learned about the 7M Management Company from director and dance studio owner Tim Milgram, who told her about the buzz in the dance community and the Wilkins family's live video on Instagram.

• What are some of the manipulative tactics used by Robert Shin to control members of the Shakaina Church?

  Robert Shin used tactics such as public rebuking, shaming, exclusion from activities, withholding jobs and money, and encouraging members to report on each other. He also used praise and rewards for obedience and tithing to create an environment of dependence and fear.

• How has TikTok changed opportunities for up-and-coming dancers?

  TikTok has created new opportunities for dancers to gain recognition and build a following, but it has also created challenges related to monetization and the potential for exploitation. The platform has become a new industry with managers, agents, and professionals who can help dancers grow their brands.

• Why did the Wilking family's story go viral?

  The Wilking family's story went viral because they were willing to go public with their concerns about their daughter's involvement with 7M Management on Instagram live. Their vulnerability and the fact that their daughters had a large following on TikTok helped to amplify the story.

• What was the decision behind including dance scenes in the documentary?

  The decision to include dance scenes was made to allow the subjects to tell their stories through their own self-expression. Dance is a powerful form of communication that can convey emotions and experiences that words cannot.

• What is the complicated relationship between Melanie and Priscilla?

  Melanie and Priscilla are sisters who were both involved in the Shakaina Church. Melanie left the church and spoke out about her experiences, while Priscilla remained for many years. Their relationship is complicated by their different experiences and the trauma they have endured.

• How does Robert Shin try to prevent members from reconciling with their families?

  Robert Shin encourages members to visit their families but limits conversations about the church and its practices. He uses this tactic to maintain control over members and prevent them from leaving the group.

• What was it like for the Wilking family to participate in the documentary?

  The Wilking family participated in the documentary out of a desire to reconnect with their daughter and to help others who may be experiencing similar situations. They were willing to share their story in real time, even though it was a difficult and painful experience.

• What is the significance of the documentary's real-time approach?

  The documentary's real-time approach allows viewers to experience the pain and desperation of the families as they try to reunite with their loved ones. It also highlights the ongoing nature of the story and the challenges of escaping from a cult.

Show Notes