Cults 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.

A Little Bit Culty

Sarah Edmondson & Anthony “Nippy” Ames

Think you might be stuck in a high-control group, or perhaps you are wondering how a seemingly helpful organization turned toxic? A Little Bit Culty invites you into the complex world of coercive control, where hosts Sarah Edmondson and Anthony Nippy Ames peel back the layers of dysfunctional systems. Drawing from their own experiences as whistleblowers featured in the series The Vow, Sarah and Nippy facilitate raw, unscripted conversations that go far beyond the headlines. The podcast serves as both a beacon for survivors and a masterclass in recognizing the red flags of manipulation. Whether they are dissecting the predatory nature of the troubled teen industry or exploring the psychology of identity hijacking, the hosts provide a platform for voices that have been systematically silenced. You will hear from survivors, activists, and subject matter experts who break down how institutions—from youth treatment programs to rigid recovery communities—weaponize vulnerability to maintain power. Each episode is a deep dive into the mechanics of indoctrination and the arduous, yet hopeful, road to de-indoctrination. By examining the intersection of commerce, charisma, and systemic abuse, A Little Bit Culty helps listeners identify the patterns that turn devotion into danger. If you are looking to understand the grooming tactics used by cults and high-control environments, this podcast offers the language, context, and empathy needed to reclaim your own sense of self.