In this pop-up episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood discusses the recent wave of violence in the United States, particularly focusing on school shootings and the radicalization of youth. She reflects on the emotional toll of these events, the normalization of violence in schools, and the role of educators in crisis situations. Ari further emphasizes the need to address extremism and the importance of maintaining humanity in the face of political division. She calls for a collective effort to protect children's rights and to rise above hate and division in society.
#cultsurvivor #radicalization #change #extremism
In the season 2 finale of DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood dives into the profound challenges cult survivors encounter as they strive to reclaim their identities. Through personal reflections and insightful interviews, Ari explores the journey from indoctrination to self-discovery, highlighting the courage it takes to question long-held beliefs and embrace one's true self. She explores the deep impact of coercive control on personal identity, and the struggle to reclaim decision-making abilities. Ari emphasizes the importance of individual stories while reminding listeners that they are so much more than their past experiences.
Thank you for watching season 2 of DisAllusioned Podcast! If you are a survivor of coercive control and ready to share you story, please feel free to contact Ari Sherwood at: DisAllusionedPodcast@gmail.com.
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In this episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood and guest-host Jay dive into the complex and often disturbing realities of North Korea, exploring its history, the rise of Kim Il-sung, the impact of the Korean War, and the ongoing cult of personality surrounding its leaders. They discuss the Songbun system that categorizes citizens based on loyalty and the role of propaganda in maintaining isolation. The conversation also touches on the future of the regime, particularly in light of Kim Jong-un's lack of heirs, and the chilling parallels between North Korea's control mechanisms and those of cults. Ari and Jay discuss various themes including the historical context of racism and child marriage, the role of lawmakers in perpetuating these issues, and the authoritarian control seen in different societies. They explore the manipulation of food as a control tactic, the impact of propaganda on public perception, and the importance of freedom of religion and the separation of church and state.
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Join host Ari Sherwood in a compelling conversation with Clare Heath-McIvor, a survivor of the City Builders Church and a passionate advocate for cult survivors. Clare shares her journey growing up in a high-control religious group as the daughter of leader Brian Hearth. Her story is incredible as she details her deconstruction from evangelical fundamentalism, to becoming a whistleblower and advocate for legislative reform. Clare, along with other cult survivors, have been leading advocates on the parliamentary inquiry into cults and fringe groups in Victoria, Australia, which aims to address coercive control in cults and high-control groups, marking a pivotal step in recognizing and legislating against such behaviors. Clare emphasizes the psychological impact of cults and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights within religious contexts, highlighting the need for awareness and legislative action, and the importance of survivor-centered advocacy. Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to hear more incredible stories of coercive control, survival, and advocacy!
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TikTok:
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Unchurchable Podcast:
https://open.spotify.com/show/0l3gXv1VUjU4AkGoxXv8Ov
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/unchurchablepod/
Victoria Cult Survivor's Network Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1207865294020176/
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Parliamentary Inquiry into Cults and Fringe Groups Victoria:https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/cofg
On this episode of DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood and guest Jay dive into the complex and troubling history of eugenics, exploring its roots in ancient philosophy, the uprise of the eugenics movement in America, and its resurgence in modern advertising. They discuss the ethical implications of eugenics, the nature vs. nurture debate, and the cultural biases that have shaped perceptions of intelligence and worth. They also examine the impact of eugenics on immigration policies and economic inequality, highlighting the ongoing relevance of these issues in contemporary society. Ari and Jay talk about the intersections of religion, history, and politics, exploring how belief systems can shape societal narratives and influence actions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of awareness and responsibility in understanding the patterns of history and their relevance in contemporary society.
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Eugenics Crusade PBS documentary:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmRb-0v5xfI
In this episode of DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood speaks with Geoff Etherton, a former youth pastor in the Church of England, about his experiences in the church and the creation of Church Abuse Survivor's Day. Geoff was a pioneer in the church, and with creative freedom, he was able to establish a coffee shop in the church as a means for meaningful engagement with the public, regardless of religious beliefs. With a sudden change in leadership, he was quickly thrown into coercive dynamics. He discusses the challenges faced within church leadership, the failure to address abuse cases, and the church's perspectives and criticisms of mental health, detailing his experiences being pushed out of ministry for having depression. Geoff shares his personal journey of deconstruction and the significance of community support for those who have experienced church abuse. This led Geoff to start Church Abuse Survivor's Day, in order to give recognition, validation, and solidarity to those who have survived religious abuse. Show your own solidarity and support for fellow survivors by lighting a candle on March 20th at 7:00 pm.
Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Subscribe for more stories by survivors of coercive control, high control religions, and cult dynamics.
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TW: This episode of DisAllusioned Podcast covers extreme and distressing themes, such as CSA, Child abuse, neglect, and torturous conditions. Viewer Discretion is strongly advised.
In this episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood interviews Jeremy Paskell, a survivor of the cult led by Ariel Ben Sherman. Jeremy gives an open and honest account of growing up in the cult, detailing the leader's long history of cons and manipulative tactics, and the severe punishments inflicted on children. Being raised within the confines of a compound, he reflects on the isolation from the outside world, the limited education provided, and the emotional trauma that resulted from his upbringing. As the conversation unfolds, Jeremy discusses the eventual collapse of the cult and his journey towards healing and recovery. He discusses the aftermath of the cult, including life in foster care, the challenges of reintegration into society, and the journey of healing through writing a book about his experiences.
Jeremy's story gives incredible insight into the dangers and destruction of growing up in a cult. He tells his story with courage and strength, recounting his painful experiences, while offering valuable advice for anyone who has been through such experiences. Show Jeremy support on his journey by supporting his art, https://paskellcreativepainting.com/
Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe for more interviews with cult survivors and their incredible stories of survival and corruption.
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Shop: https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeremypaskell/
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Join host, Ari Sherwood, for a compelling episode diving into the multifaceted experiences of growing up in the International Churches of Christ (ICOC). Podcaster and cult survivor, Roy Clemens, opens up about the struggles of life as a "Kingdom Kid," grappling with the realization that the ICOC is more than just a church—it’s a cult. We explore the lasting impact of purity culture on adulthood, from internalized shame to relationship challenges. Discover how storytelling becomes a powerful tool for healing, as Roy shares his journey of reclaiming his narrative and finding empowerment through sharing his experiences on his podcast, Clemenz with a Z. This episode offers a profound look at resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of giving voice to one's story.
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Clemenz with a Z website:
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Substack:
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In this episode of the DisAllusioned podcast, host Ari Sherwood and guest Jay continue the Philosophy Behind Cults series, focusing on the role of authority, persuasion, and manipulation of language. They explore the rhetorical strategies of ethos, pathos, and logos, and how these elements are used to establish credibility and manipulate emotions. The conversation also touches on the complexities of validating authority in claims of divinity, and the challenges of discerning legitimate authority in a world filled with misinformation. In this conversation, Jay and Ari delve into the complexities of authority, belief, and knowledge. Throughout, they emphasize the need for critical thinking and discernment in navigating claims of authority.
Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe for compelling interviews and discussions with cult survivors about their experiences and reclaiming their lives after the cult experience.
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Aristotle's Rhetoric:
https://www.amazon.com/Aristotles-Art-Rhetoric-Aristotle/
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy:
https://plato.stanford.edu/
In this episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood speaks with David Quesada, a former Jehovah's Witness and musician. David shares his journey growing up in a strict, multi-generational Jehovah's Witness family, detailing the intense control and hierarchy within the organization. He discusses the changes in teachings over the years, the financial struggles linked to lawsuits, and his personal experiences with shunning and questioning his beliefs. David reflects on the cognitive dissonance he faced and the process of deconstructing his faith, ultimately leading to a powerful realization about the nature of the cult. The conversation highlights the challenges of leaving a deeply ingrained belief system and the impact on family dynamics. He shares their journey of leaving a controlling religious environment, the struggles faced during the transition, and the role of music as a therapeutic outlet. They discuss the importance of autonomy, identity, and the hope that exists for those who have left similar situations. This conversation emphasizes resilience and the power of creativity in overcoming adversity.
Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more discussions and interviews focusing on coercive control and the cult dynamic.
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In this episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood speaks with Amber, a fifth-generation ex-Jehovah's Witness. Amber shares her unique journey growing up in the organization, the complexities of baptism, disfellowshipping, and the impact of COVID-19 on the community. She discusses the contradictions within the beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses, the emotional toll of leaving the organization, and the struggles of navigating family relationships post-exit. Amber also highlights the serious issues of child abuse within the organization and the role of whistleblowers in seeking truth. This conversation provides a deep insight into the challenges faced by those who leave high-control religions and the journey towards personal faith and freedom. Amber emphasizes the significance of community support for ex-cult members and the power of questioning beliefs, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of healing and self-discovery. Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more discussions and interviews focusing on coercive control and the cult dynamic.
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In this episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood continues her series into the philosophy behind cults, focusing on the concepts of authority and autonomy, tackling some foundational questions: What makes authority legitimate? Why should we obey authority? And can a cult be a legitimate authority? Ari gives an introduction into the philosophy of authority and the various philosophical perspectives, including those of Thomas Hobbes, Immanuel Kant, Plato, and John Stuart Mill, examining what makes authority legitimate and the moral obligations individuals have towards it. Ari emphasizes the importance of personal agency and the challenges faced by cult survivors in reclaiming their autonomy. Understanding what authority is, the relevance of autonomy and consent in legitimating authority, and the variations in philosophical approaches can help you in your own deconstruction and recovery process.
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Recommended Philosophy Books:
Thomas Hobbes Leviathan:
https://a.co/d/82TJV39
Immanuel Kant Critique of Pure Reason:
https://a.co/d/isxqed9
Plato's The Republic:
https://a.co/d/iZAwWtg
John Stuart Mill's On Liberty:
https://a.co/d/gRpTvr2
Robert Paul Wolff In Defense of Anarchism:
https://a.co/d/08xM3OM
Leslie Green's Authority of the State:
https://a.co/d/dRX0RCy
Philosophical Resources:
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy:
https://plato.stanford.edu/
PhilPapers:
https://philpapers.org/
American Philosophical Association:
https://www.apaonline.org/
The Philosopher's Magazine:
https://philosophersmag.com/
In this episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood speaks with Maria Esguerra, psychologist, advocate, and a cult survivor born and raised in the Children of God cult. Maria shares her experiences growing up in a highly controlled environment that limited her critical thinking and access to medical care. She discusses the psychological impact of her upbringing, the challenges of transitioning to the medical system after leaving the cult, and the importance of informed consent in medical ethics. Maria dives into the importance of motivational interviewing techniques in addressing cult dynamics, as well as the complexities of these types of relationship dynamics. Maria shares her advocacy work aimed at educating survivors and changing the narrative around their experiences, highlighting the need for empathy and understanding in discussions about cults and coercive groups. Maria's knowledge and awareness surrounding the complexity of the dynamics of coercive control brings an in-depth and critical look at the cult experience.
To follow and learn more about Maria Esguerra:
https://linktr.ee/Mariaesguerra
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In the first episode of DisAllusioned Podcast, season 2, host Ari Sherwood introduces a new series, The Philosophy Behind Cults. The conversation dives into the philosophy of authority and autonomy, examining what constitutes legitimate authority and how it relates to personal freedom. Ari shares insights from her academic background and personal journey as a cult survivor, discussing the complexities of autonomy, coercion, and emotional influence in decision-making. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics for personal recovery and empowerment.
As season 2 continues, Ari will focus on addressing fundamental philosophical questions; Can a person autonomously join a cult? What makes authority legitimate? How do we define authority and autonomy, and why does this matter? She will further highlight the various philosophical perspectives of authority, autonomy, and moral reasoning.
Subscribe to DisAllusioned Podcast for some compelling and thought provoking interviews with cult survivors who are currently using their voices and autonomy to speak out about the truth of cult dynamics.
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Jeremy Waldron's Law and Disagreement Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Law-Disagreement-Jeremy-Waldron/dp/0199243034
Antonio Damasio's Descartes' Error Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Descartes-Error-Emotion-Reason-Human/dp/014303622X
Cult Survivor Resources:
ISCA:
https://www.icsahome.com/
People Leave Cults:
https://www.peopleleavecults.com/
Cult Recovery 101:
https://cultrecovery101.com/
Lalich Center:
https://www.lalichcenter.org/
Decult:
https://decult.net/
Freedom Train Project:
https://thefreedomtrainproject.org/
In this episode of DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood and guest Jay delve into the disturbing world of cults, focusing on the Knights of the Crystal Blade, a family cult involved in child grooming and abuse. They discuss the implications of child marriage laws, the cycle of abuse that perpetuates through generations, and the coercive control tactics used by cult leaders. The conversation also touches on the influence of celebrity culture on abuse, particularly in the context of high-profile figures like P Diddy and Nickelodeon producer Dan Schneider. Ari Sherwood and Jay explore the themes of autonomy and coercive control. They discuss the healing process after leaving controlling environments and the societal narratives that contribute to grooming and victim blaming. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for awareness, the importance of education in preventing abuse, and the power of community in creating positive change and collective action.
Ari Sherwood critically examines the claims made by the Mind Alignment Process (MAP) therapy associated with the Twin Flame Universe. She highlights the importance of identifying red flags in therapy claims, evaluating the validity of research, and understanding the implications of legal disclaimers. The discussion emphasizes the need for skepticism in mental health practices and the dangers of manipulative healing methods. She discusses the need for transparency in research and the significance of ethical standards in mental health treatments. Through a detailed analysis of MAP's claims, Ari emphasizes the necessity of skepticism and informed decision-making when it comes to mental health therapies.
In this episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood speaks with filmmaker Scott Homan, cofounder of Banana Island Films and director of Witness Underground, about his experiences as a Jehovah's Witnesses and the impact of shunning and emotional abuse. They discuss the importance of critical thinking, the dynamics of cults, and the role of public speaking in these environments. They touch on the rise of cults in the digital age, personal experiences with relationships, and the systemic issues in maintaining an ethical society. They explore the deconstruction of beliefs, the nature of morality beyond religion, and the fear and control present in religious narratives. This conversation further delves into the complex themes surrounding religion, cult dynamics, and the role of psychedelics and shamanism in personal and societal contexts.
Find Scott Homan on Social Media
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bananaislandfilms
Instagram: https://instagram.com/scotthoman
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homanscott
Banana Island Films:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BananaIslandFilms
Website: https://bananaislandfilms.com
Witness Underground
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/witnessunderground
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WitnessUnderground
Website: https://witnessunderground.com
In this episode of DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood speaks with Richard Kiers, author of Swindled by Faith, cult survivor, and advocate, about his experiences in a cult called The Move of God. Richard shares insights into the origins of the cult, the recruitment process, and the harsh realities of life inside the group, including child labor and the impact of authoritarian control. He discusses the struggles faced after leaving the cult, the importance of community support, and the need for awareness and advocacy against cults. He touches on the exploitation and trafficking of individuals within cults, particularly women and children, and the role of social media in fostering connections and raising awareness. This conversation delves into the complex issues surrounding cults, including their impact on personal identity, the lack of legislation addressing cult behaviors, and the importance of education in preventing exploitation. Richard shares his journey of writing a book about his experiences in a cult and the advocacy work he has undertaken to support others who have faced similar challenges. He emphasizes the importance of community support, the impact of family dynamics on healing, and the need for education and awareness regarding the vulnerabilities of children and individuals in abusive situations.
Buy Richard's book here: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/0228815088/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk
Richard's cult survivor Facebook support: group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19av49cteB/
In this episode of the DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood speaks with Ryan Anthony Hernandez, a survivor of a Catholic cult ran by Edgardo Arellano, and the host of The Truth That Heals Podcast and Creativity Worth Expressing. Ryan shares his harrowing journey of being drawn into the cult at the age of 17, the manipulative tactics used to control members, and the psychological and emotional toll it took on him. He discusses the emotional and psychological toll of cult life, the challenges of leaving, and the importance of reconnecting with family. also highlights his current projects, including his podcast, which aims to provide a platform for healing and sharing personal truths, as well as a new initiative focused on creativity and self-expression. The conversation emphasizes the significance of hope, healing, and the journey of rediscovering oneself after leaving a cult .
https://linktr.ee/truththathealspod
In this episode of the Disillusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood shares her personal journey with a rare genetic condition, hereditary neuralgic amyotrophy, and reflects on the implications of growing up in an evangelical environment and later being involved in a cult. She discusses the challenges of accessing medical care, the impact of cult beliefs on health, and the rights of children to receive necessary medical treatment. Ari emphasizes the importance of understanding the struggles faced by disabled individuals and advocates for their rights to proper healthcare. She delves into the implications of cults on individuals with disabilities, exploring themes of medical ethics and the tragic consequences of religious beliefs on health. The conversation highlights the lack of accessibility in cult recovery, the ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals when religious beliefs conflict with patient care, and the alarming statistics surrounding child fatalities due to religious medical neglect. Ari emphasizes the need for greater awareness and education on these issues, particularly regarding the impact of high control religions on health and well-being.