Troy and Brian welcome Sarah Steel, the brilliant host and creator of the award-winning podcast Let's Talk About Sects. Sarah delves into the complex world of high control groups and cults, sharing insights from her extensive research and personal interviews. Together, they explore the psychological impact of cults, the challenges of leaving such groups, and the importance of storytelling in understanding these experiences. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that sheds light on the hidden dynamics of coercive control and the resilience of those who break free.

Links:

• Let's Talk About Sects
• Do As I Say: How cults control, why we join them, and what they teach us about bullying, abuse and coercion

Key takeaways:

• Sarah Steel, host of "Let's Talk About Sects," explores the dynamics of high control groups and cults, emphasizing the importance of understanding coercive control.
• The episode highlights the psychological impact of cults on individuals, including challenges with identity, autonomy, and critical thinking.
• Sarah shares insights into the process of leaving cultic groups, noting the complexity and difficulty of breaking free from such environments.
• The discussion underscores the power of storytelling in destigmatizing the experiences of former cult members and raising awareness about coercive control.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore resources like Cult Information and Family Support and the International Cultic Studies Association for further understanding and support.

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