In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, host Scot Loyd and co-host Daniela Mesteneck Young engage in a deep conversation with Chloe Nwangwu, a brand scientist. They explore the concept of under recognition, the importance of branding in social influence, and the role of conflict mediation in understanding societal dynamics. Chloe shares her journey from conflict resolution to branding, emphasizing the significance of visibility and recognition in creating impactful change. The discussion also touches on the mythical norm, the dangers of echo chambers, and the necessity of diversity in combating misinformation. The episode concludes with insights into Chloe's methodology for building influence and the importance of acknowledging trauma in social movements.

Connect with Chloé Nwangwu

Website

Visibility Clinic

Visibility Assessment 

LinkedIn

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_  Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• Chloe Nwangwu is known as the brand scientist.
• Under recognition is a key issue in social dynamics.
• Conflict mediation training informs Chloe's work.
• Brands influence how others perceive and treat individuals.
• The science of resistance is crucial in today's society.
• Maintaining social norms is essential for safety.
• Diversity is vital in preventing echo chambers.
• Under representation stems from under recognition.
• Chloe's methodology focuses on visibility engineering.
• Creative projects can amplify important messages.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cults and Personal Journeys 02:27 Understanding the Role of a Brand Scientist 04:16 Conflict Mediation and Its Evolution 10:30 The Power of Branding in Social Dynamics 12:39 Defining Brands and Their Influence 16:10 Resistance and the Science of Influence 17:57 The Role of Representation in Social Change 20:04 Maintaining Social Norms Amidst Change 23:15 Building a Collective Resistance 28:19 Listening to Marginalized Voices for Change 29:35 The Need for Rest and Healing Among Black Women 30:50 Understanding the Mythical Norm and Its Impact 32:51 Behavior Change and Cult Dynamics 35:08 Adoption Thresholds and Social Proof 37:30 The Dangers of Ideal Client Avatars 38:56 The Role of Diversity in Preventing Echo Chambers 41:32 The Importance of Equity and Inclusion 43:24 Under Recognition vs. Under Representation 45:27 Visibility Engineering: Building Your Ecosystem of Influence 51:59 Creative Expression and Cultural Commentary

Produced by Haley Phillips

 

In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scot Loyd and Daniela Mestyanek Young engage in a profound conversation with Amanda Gross about the intersections of race, privilege, and healing. Amanda discusses her book, 'White Women Get Ready,' which explores the concept of Post-Traumatic Mistress Syndrome and the role of white women in anti-racist movements. The conversation delves into personal histories, the current climate of racism, the importance of community, and the challenges of navigating white privilege. They also touch on the impact of cancel culture and the role of arts in fostering healing and understanding. Throughout the discussion, the hosts emphasize the need for self-reflection, accountability, and the interconnectedness of liberation and healing.

Amanda's Links: 

Book: White Women Get Ready 

Recommended paired reading: Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome by Dr. Joy Degruy

Intagram: @MistressSyndrome

TikTok: @MistressSyndrome 

Patreon: @MistressSyndromeBook

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_  Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• White women have a crucial role in anti-racist work.
• Healing is essential for transformative change.
• Understanding personal history is key to addressing privilege.
• Community connection is vital for healing and support.
• Cancel culture often replicates state violence and lacks relationality.
• Perfectionism can be a form of self-hatred and harm to others.
• The arts can facilitate difficult conversations and healing.
• Accountability in relationships is necessary for growth.
• Racism and white supremacy harm everyone, including white people.
• Liberation is interconnected and requires collective effort.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cults and Anti-Racism 03:26 Understanding Post-Traumatic Mistress Syndrome 06:19 The Importance of Healing in Anti-Racist Work 09:26 Personal Histories and Their Impact on Activism 12:31 The Current Climate of White Supremacy 15:21 Surprising Discoveries in Personal Ancestry 18:27 The Role of Storytelling in Healing 21:22 The Disconnect of Whiteness and Community 24:37 Backlash Against Diversity and Equity Initiatives 30:20 The Power of Perspective: Learning from Black Women 32:17 Community and Spirituality: Resilience Among Black Women 33:14 Navigating Conversations: White Privilege and Listening 34:56 Courage in Relationships: Honesty and Emotional Safety 38:36 Shame and Growth: Deconstructing Cult Mentalities 40:36 Cancel Culture: Trauma, Accountability, and Community 43:19 Performative Regulation: The Dangers of Policing Each Other 45:31 Intent vs. Impact: The Importance of Acknowledgment 47:43 Building Community: The Role of White Women's Affinity Spaces 51:58 Art as a Medium: Conflict, Healing, and Connection

Produced by Haley Phillips

 

 

 

In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella Mestyanek Young engage with Tara and Floyd, who share their experiences growing up in the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP) and the Advanced Training Institute (ATI). They discuss the complexities of deconstruction from fundamentalist beliefs, the emotional toll of leaving a cult, and the impact on family relationships. The conversation also touches on the importance of emotional awareness in parenting and the healing journey after leaving high-control groups. Tara and Floyd reflect on their participation in the documentary 'Shiny Happy People' and the challenges they faced in sharing their story.

Tara and Floyd:

Instagram: @advocateaverage

tiktok: @advocateaverage

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_  Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• Deconstruction is a personal journey that varies for each individual.
• Cults often use contracts and strict rules to control members' lives.
• The emotional cost of leaving a cult can be profound, affecting family relationships.
• Parenting styles can be influenced by past experiences in cults.
• Finding peace and healing is possible after leaving a high-control group.
• The process of deconstruction can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself.
• Cults often exploit labor and manipulate finances for their benefit.
• Sharing one's story can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.
• The importance of emotional awareness in parenting cannot be overstated.
• Cults can be seen as criminal enterprises that exploit their members. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Deconstruction 01:33 Understanding IBLP and ATI 05:45 The Cult Debate: Is IBLP a Cult? 12:11 Navigating Different Deconstruction Timelines 18:27 The Impact of Parenting on Deconstruction 23:46 Sobriety and the Numbing Process 28:31 Emotional Suppression in Cults 31:11 The Birth of a Musical Concept 32:14 Living with the Pain of Loss 34:50 Navigating Family Relationships Post-Cult 37:18 The Complexity of Conditional Love 40:13 The Struggle of Acceptance and Identity 43:12 The Irony of Family Dynamics 46:22 Addiction to Certainty and Superiority 49:15 Finding Peace in Acceptance 53:05 The Journey of Healing and Advocacy

Produced by Haley Phillips

 

In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella engage with Tia Levings, a New York Times bestselling author and cult survivor. They discuss Tia's journey of writing her memoir, the impact of Christian patriarchy, and the allure of traditionalism in modern society. Tia shares her insights on the dynamics of complementarianism, the consequences of perfectionism, and the importance of storytelling in healing. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness and empowerment among those affected by high-control groups, while also exploring the complexities of societal change and the role of women in shaping the future.

Tia's Links

https://tialevings.com/

https://tialevings.substack.com/

Instagram @tialevingswriter

Threads @tialevingswriter

TikTok @tialevingswriter

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_  Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• Tia's book started as therapeutic journals recommended by her therapist.
• The journey to writing a memoir can take years and evolve over time.
• Christian patriarchy influences many aspects of American culture.
• The concept of a 'cult without walls' highlights the pervasive nature of these deologies.
• Traditionalism can appear attractive but often masks deeper issues.
• Perfectionism is a significant burden for survivors of cults.
• The most vulnerable individuals often bear the brunt of abuse in high-control groups.
• Hope and empowerment are crucial in the face of societal chaos.
• People should always come before ideas in any belief system.
• Bitterness can serve as a powerful tool for healing and empowerment. 

Sound Bites

"Welcome to 2025: A New Beginning" "It took years to tell my story" "Hope is stubborn and necessary"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of 2025 03:39 The Journey to Writing a Memoir 06:25 The Impact of Christian Patriarchy 09:30 The Connection Between Personal Experience and Cultural Issues 12:25 The Allure of Traditional Gender Roles 15:27 Nostalgia and Misconceptions of the Past 18:15 Facing the Truth of Domestic Discipline 21:30 The Importance of Sharing Stories 24:14 The Dynamics of Complementarianism 27:14 Recognizing Abuse and Empowering Individuals 31:20 Breaking Free from Perfectionism 33:39 Childhood Vulnerability in Cults 35:53 The Future of Cults and Youth Movements 37:18 Chaos and Fundamentalism 38:02 Narcissism and Cult Leadership 39:29 Women’s Empowerment and Resistance 40:27 Surviving Authoritarianism 41:53 The Power of Storytelling 43:16 Bitterness as Empowerment 52:59 People Over Ideas: A Fundamental Principle

Produced by Haley Phillips

 

In this conversation, Daniella and Jack explore the parallels between cult dynamics and the education system, particularly focusing on how teaching can exhibit cult-like characteristics. They discuss the impact of masculinity, patriarchy, and the control of children within educational settings. The conversation delves into the degradation ceremonies present in both cults and schools, the role of punishment in hierarchical systems, and the importance of unstructured outdoor time for child development. They also address the exploitation of teachers' labor, the purpose of education in society, and the need for resistance against oppressive structures. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of community action and hope for a better future.

Jack's Links: 

Website: https://healthecycle.com/

TikTok: @watchfulcayote

Youtube: @WatchfulCayote

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_  Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• Teaching can exhibit cult-like characteristics.
• Masculinity is viewed as a cult in modern society.
• Patriarchy is a foundational cult system.
• Degradation ceremonies are common in both cults and schools.
• Children are difficult to brainwash due to their developmental stage.
• Self-sacrifice is a significant expectation in teaching.
• Education often discourages pushing back against authority.
• The current education system breaks individual identity.
• Community action is essential for change.
• Hope for the future is vital in resisting oppressive systems.

Sound Bites

"Teaching might be a little bit culty." "Masculinity today is a cult." "Hope for the future is essential."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cult Dynamics in Education 02:57 Exploring Masculinity as a Cult 06:01 The Role of Patriarchy in Cult Structures 08:47 Degradation Ceremonies and Control Mechanisms 12:04 The Us vs. Them Mentality in Education 15:08 The Impact of Childhood Environment on Identity 18:01 Authority Figures and Internalized Hierarchies 20:59 The Sacred Assumption of Education 24:09 Democratic Education vs. Traditional Models 27:12 Self-Sacrifice and Labor Exploitation 30:03 The Broader Mechanism of Capitalist Exploitation 32:57 Comparisons to Historical Dictatorships 38:30 The State of Education and Social Services 41:01 The Purpose and History of Education 45:04 The Impact of Education on Identity and Agency 48:52 Challenging the Sacred Assumption of Capitalism 53:31 Resistance and the Role of Education 59:50 Pathways to Change and the Future of Education

Produced by Haley Phillips

 

In this episode, Dr. Jamie Marich discusses her experiences with spiritual abuse and the dynamics of cults, emphasizing the importance of understanding these issues in therapy. She shares her personal journey of growing up in a high-demand religious environment, the impact of family dynamics, and her path to recovery from addiction. The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling and community support in healing, as well as the role of writing as a therapeutic tool. Dr. Marich also addresses the challenges faced by individuals leaving cult-like environments and the need for mental health professionals to recognize and address spiritual abuse.

Dr. Marich's Links: 

Link to spiritual memoir writing course we discussed in the interview, Memoir Writing as Spiritual Practice starting January 14 bit.ly/3zbezeL   Link for purchase options on You Lied to Me About God: A Memoir https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/760810/you-lied-to-me-about-god-by-jamie-marich-phd/   Websites: www.jamiemarich.com www.redefinetherapy.com www.instituteforcreativemindfulness.com   Socials:  IG @drjamiem TT @traumatherapistrants

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_  Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Scot's Links

Connect with Scot Loyd's social media  (TikTok)

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• Spiritual abuse is often overlooked in therapy.
• Cults use religion as a tool for control.
• Personal experiences can inform professional practice.
• Storytelling is a powerful healing tool.
• Community support is crucial for recovery.
• Addiction can stem from unprocessed trauma.
• High-demand religions can create toxic family dynamics.
• Writing can be a form of spiritual practice.
• Understanding cult dynamics helps in healing.
• There is a growing movement against high-demand religions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Spiritual Insights 06:16 Understanding Cult Dynamics 12:30 The Impact of High-Control Groups 18:19 The Intersection of Religion and Mental Health 24:24 Finding Healing Through Connection 30:26 Concluding Thoughts on Healing and Growth 35:30 Navigating Academia and High Control Environments 44:35 Memoir as a Tool for Healing 53:06 Building Community and Resources for Healing

Produced by Haley Phillips

 

 

In this conversation, Maddie Jo Cowsert shares her journey from growing up in evangelical purity culture to navigating her identity and sexuality in New York City. She discusses the complexities of deconstruction, the impact of family support, and her reflections on wealth and the behavior of rich people. The dialogue highlights the shared experiences of those who have left high-control groups and the ongoing search for belonging and purpose.

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_  Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Scot's Links

Connect with Scot Loyd's social media  (TikTok)

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• Purity culture instills a sense of identity centered around marriage.
• Moving to New York City can be a significant culture shock.
• Dating in a secular environment presents unique challenges for those raised in religious settings.
• Family support plays a crucial role in the deconstruction process.
• Wealth can create a disconnect in understanding real-life struggles.
• Rich people often face their own insecurities despite their wealth.
• Generosity among the wealthy can be genuine, but the system is flawed.
• The pressure to conform to societal expectations is pervasive in both religious and secular contexts.
• Deconstruction is often a slow and painful process of self-discovery.
• Finding a new identity after leaving a cult-like environment is a complex journey. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Purity Culture and Personal Background 03:29 The Spectrum of Religious Experiences 06:19 Cultural Shock: From Evangelicalism to New York City 09:12 Navigating Relationships and Sexuality 12:25 The Impact of New York's Dating Scene 15:21 Deconstructing Faith and Identity 18:30 The Role of Money and Prosperity in Religion 21:22 Social Dynamics and Group Behavior in Cults 24:22 The Internal Conflict of Leaving a Cult 27:14 The Journey of Rebuilding Identity 30:30 Conclusion: Humor and Healing in Deconstruction 31:07 Navigating Early Relationships and Cultural Expectations 32:49 The Impact of Purity Culture on Sexual Experiences 36:04 The Insidious Nature of Cultural Norms 37:28 Parallels in Trauma and Healing 39:34 Family Dynamics and Support in Deconstruction 42:23 Grieving the Loss of a Conditional Relationship with God 46:13 The Role of Education and Critical Thinking in Parenting 48:52 The Importance of Unconditional Love in Cult Recovery 51:35 Reevaluating Definitions of Love and Acceptance 53:32 Insights from Working with the Wealthy 59:27 The Cult of Capitalism and Its Implications

 

 

In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, Beatrice Weber shares her profound journey growing up in the Hasidic community, detailing the strict beliefs and practices that shaped her life. She discusses the impact of historical trauma on her community, the role of women, and her experiences with arranged marriage. Beatrice reflects on her decision to leave the community after years of confusion and struggle, and she now focuses on education reform for Jewish children. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and the ongoing quest for personal freedom and identity.

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_  Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Scot's Links

Connect with Scot Loyd's social media  (TikTok)

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• Beatrice grew up in a high control group within the Hasidic community.
• Understanding cult dynamics helped Beatrice process her experiences.
• The Hasidic community has strict rules around gender roles and education.
• Historical trauma from the Holocaust influences the community's isolationist mindset.
• Women in the Hasidic community often feel like property in arranged marriages.
• Beatrice's marriage was abusive, leading her to seek therapy and support.
• Leaving the community was a complex decision, influenced by her children's well-being.
• Beatrice is now involved in education reform for Hasidic children.
• She emphasizes the importance of choice and individuality in her new life.
• Beatrice maintains a connection to her cultural roots while rejecting fundamentalism.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 06:19 Understanding High Control Groups 15:59 Education and Control in the Hasidic Community 25:06 The First Night and Wedding Rituals 31:09 The Impact of Ceremonial Control 36:26 Navigating Marriage and Sexuality in Isolation 41:55 The Journey to Leaving an Abusive Marriage 47:23 Life After Leaving: Finding Purpose and Healing 55:05 Reconnecting with Faith and Spirituality

Produced by Haley Phillips

 

 

 

In this conversation, Dr. Kerry McAvoy discusses her experiences with narcissistic abuse, the psychological implications of narcissism, and the societal impact of charismatic leaders. The discussion delves into the dynamics of cult-like behavior in politics, the challenges of cognitive dissonance, and the importance of personal identity and healing from toxic relationships. Dr. McAvoy shares insights on the spectrum of narcissism, the significance of vulnerability, and offers resources for those seeking to recover from abusive situations.

Daniella Mestyanek Young's book: 

• From Bookshop.org

• Uncultured Autograph: 

Connect with Daniella on social media 

• TikTok, Patreon, Instagram 

• Youtube

• Connect with Scot Loyd's social media  (TikTok)

• Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

• Narcissism can manifest in various forms, including in political leadership.
• Cognitive dissonance plays a significant role in justifying unhealthy relationships.
• Healing from toxic relationships requires self-discovery and understanding personal identity.
• Vulnerability is essential for authentic connections and relationships.
• Cults often exploit human desires for belonging and acceptance.
• The importance of setting boundaries in relationships cannot be overstated.
• Self-reflection is crucial in recognizing narcissistic traits within oneself.
• Healing is a process that involves learning to express emotions and needs.
• Understanding the dynamics of narcissism can help in recognizing abusive patterns.
• Resources such as podcasts and workbooks can aid in recovery from narcissistic abuse.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation 06:13 Personal Experiences with Narcissism 17:00 Cognitive Dissonance and Justification 23:06 Narcissism as a Spectrum 29:14 Transactional Relationships and Echoism 36:49 The Illusion of Uniqueness in Cults 45:31 Overcoming Emotional Numbness and Building Boundaries 51:16 Learning to Coexist: Embracing Differences 56:16 Resources for Healing and Recovery

Produced by: Haley Phillips

 

Summary

In this conversation, the hosts and guest explore the dynamics of cults, particularly focusing on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and its 12-step program. They discuss the coercive nature of these programs, the sacred status of AA, and the psychological impacts on individuals involved. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing the tactics used by cults, the role of shame and judgment, and the need for personal responsibility and accountability. The emotional toll of leaving such programs and the significance of language in shaping identity and recovery are also examined. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of recovery from addiction, discussing the various systems in place, including Alcoholics Anonymous and Christian recovery houses. They explore the intentions behind these systems, the potential for abuse, and the importance of understanding one's options. The discussion emphasizes the need for empowerment and autonomy in recovery, highlighting alternative methods and the significance of informed choices.

Daniella Mestyanek Young's book: 

• From Bookshop.org

• Uncultured Autograph: 

Connect with Daniella on social media 

• TikTok, Patreon, Instagram 

• Youtube

• Connect with Scot Loyd's social media  (TikTok)

• Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

McCauley Sexton is a consultant and creator of proprietary alternative recovery programs and manualized content for institutions and non profits, with over a decade of lived experience. As the co-host of the recovery reform podcast with Dr.Nichols he addresses the stigma and indoctrination within the recovery community and our culture as a whole. 

  Website www.sextonspace.com    Social media @sextonspace    Email [email protected]