As an independent producer, reporter, and sound designer, Jonathan Hirsch has produced hundreds of long-form audio works for NPR, Vox, NBC, Fusion Media Group, and many others. He is a recipient of the Green Eyeshade, Edward R. Murrow, and DuPont Awards. His 7-part documentary podcast series Dear Franklin Jones debuted #1 on the iTunes podcast charts. In April of 2018, Jonathan launched Neon Hum Media, an LA-based podcast production company, specializing in narrative-driven, high production value, “audio first” documentaries, talk shows, and partner content.

Jonathan talks about the insights he gained from researching the spiritual teacher Dr. Fredrick Lenz III for his new audio documentary podcast series I Am Rama. Jonathan shares with Rachel the story behind his fascination with Lenz, also known as Rama, which begins with his parents meeting at a spiritual convention organized by Rama. By the time Jonathan was born, his parents had changed paths and became devotees of another controversial spiritual leader, Adi Da, joining his new religious group Adidam which Jonathan was born into and raised in.

Before You Go: Rachel explains why victims of cults or high control relationships often go from one bad situation to the next and what measures you can take to stop the cycle of abuse and protect yourself from manipulation.

Listen to Jonathan's podcast Smoke Screen: I Am Rama here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/smoke-screen-i-am-rama/id1525807626

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