Child Abuse Awareness Podcasts

Was I In A Cult?

PodcastOne

Have you ever wondered if the group you were part of—or perhaps the high-pressure community you grew up in—was more than just a lifestyle choice? Hosted by Tyler Measom and Liz Iacuzzi, Was I In A Cult? bridges the gap between true crime and personal memoir by sitting down with those who have lived through the reality of high-control groups. Each episode features firsthand accounts from survivors who share their journeys of recruitment, indoctrination, and the often perilous road to liberation. From the systemic child abuse hidden behind the serene facade of the Hare Krishna movement to the coercive, manipulative tactics of wellness startups like OneTaste, the show pulls back the curtain on environments that prioritize institutional control over human safety. The hosts approach these heavy, often heartbreaking stories with a balance of empathy and intellectual curiosity. They guide listeners through the complex mechanics of how intelligent people are drawn into extreme groups and how these organizations maintain their grip through gaslighting, isolation, and exploitation. Whether exploring the insular world of the Swartzentruber Amish or the dark side of spiritual capitalism, the podcast serves as both a sobering cautionary tale and an inspirational testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It is a space dedicated to reclaiming one's voice, uncovering the truth, and ultimately helping listeners navigate the thin line between community and cult.