Today, I'm joined by Vennie Kocsis, the author of Cult Child, who shares her harrowing experiences growing up in the cult, Sam Fife The Move. Vennie discusses her early childhood, the transformation of her mother into a cult member, and the psychological trauma that ensued. She reflects on the cult's beliefs, the abuse she and other children endured, and the lasting impact of these experiences on her life. The conversation also touches on the intersection of cults and government, the ongoing legacy of Sam Fife's cult, and the importance of healing and awareness for survivors. We delve into the predatory tactics used by cults, the impact of shame and trauma on identity, and the importance of therapy in recovery.

Links

Vennie's Books 📖

My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 

Patreon 🙌🏼

Dark Finds IG 💀

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 

Dark Finds Book 📖 

Takeaways

Keywords: cult, memoir, trauma, abuse, Sam Fife, Vennie Kocsis, childhood, disassociation, survivor stories, psychological impact, cults, trauma, shame, spirituality, healing, identity, therapy, self-discovery, mental health, recovery

Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by bestselling thriller writer Alice Hunter, whose gripping novels delve deep into the minds of serial killers and psychopaths. Alice takes us on her fascinating journey from nursing to working as a psychological facilitator in the prison system, to finding her passion in writing. She shares how her work explores psychopathy, criminal psychology, and the fine line between nature and nurture. We talk about the meticulous research that goes into her books, psychopaths and serial killers, and what it’s like to see her stories adapted for screen.

Alice's books - https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B08CGX25N8

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Takeaways

Thrillers often explore the dark side of human nature.
The fascination with serial killers may stem from a desire to understand them.
Psychopaths can be highly manipulative and charming.
Working in a prison can change one's perspective on crime and criminals.
Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for personal experiences.
Research is important, but fiction allows for creative freedom.
Alice Hunter's journey from nursing to writing is unique and inspiring.
The adaptation of books to screen can differ significantly from the original story.
The relationship between genetics and criminal behavior is complex.
Alice Hunter's writing process involves detailed planning and character development.

Keywords: thriller, serial killers, psychopathy, writing process, true crime, manipulation, nursing, prison, psychological thriller, Alice Hunter

In this episode, I sit down with one of motorsport’s most charismatic and candid voices — Guenther Steiner. From a young boy with a fascination for cars to becoming a key figure in the high-stakes world of Formula 1, Guenther takes us through his remarkable journey.

We dive into his early passion for racing, the tough breaks and breakthroughs that shaped his career, and the realities of what it takes to succeed behind the scenes — from sponsorships and networking to the art of the pitch. Guenther also reflects on the massive global impact of Netflix’s Drive to Survive, and how it reshaped public perception of F1.

With his signature honesty and humor, he shares sharp insights on the contrasts between rally and Formula 1, and why storytelling is just as crucial in the boardroom as it is on the track.

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Guenther Steiner, Formula 1, motorsport, Drive to Survive, rally, networking, sponsorship, career, passion, talent

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Karen Conti, an attorney who spent seven months representing serial killer John Wayne Gacy during his final death row appeals.

Karen shares what it was like to sit across from one of America’s most notorious killers, his humor and coldness alike. As Gacy’s only female attorney during his 14 years on death row, she also opens up about the unique challenges she faced as a woman practicing law in the 1980s and ’90s.

We dive into Gacy’s crimes, his disturbing psychological profile, and the family dynamics that shaped him. Karen also offers her insight on some lingering questions of whether or not Gacy acted alone. So buckle up for this one, and remember if you're liking the podcast, please subsribe, comment, rate and share with others.

Karen's website 👉🏼 https://www.karenconti.com/

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds Website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

On this weeks episode I'm joined by a good friend of mine, Brian Whelan who shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Ireland to becoming a successful real estate broker in New York City. He brings us through the challenges and rewards of working in a hyper-competitive market, the importance of resilience and mindset, and the value of building relationships in sales. 

Broker Brunch Podcast 👉🏼 https://open.spotify.com/show/24KJ3040mJcqP794xV3Azx?si=598e29eb97214ceb

How It Falls Apart Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds Website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

Takeaways

Success in real estate requires hard work and persistence.

It's essential to compete against yourself, not others.

Building relationships is key to sales success.

Understanding client needs is more important than having all the answers.

The immigrant mentality fosters a willingness to take risks.

Health and stress management are crucial for long-term success.

Finding balance between work and personal life is vital.

Momentum is built through small, consistent actions.

You can always find a way to overcome challenges.

Gratitude and perspective are essential in navigating life's ups and downs.

real estate, New York, resilience, mindset, immigrant mentality, sales success, health, stress management, personal growth, opportunity

In this episode, Fergus Kennedy shares the profound journey of uncovering his family's history, particularly focusing on his father's harrowing experiences as a prisoner of war during World War II. The discussion delves into the emotional and physical struggles faced by POWs, the brutal conditions of the Japanese camps, and the resilience of the human spirit. Fergus reflects on the importance of storytelling in preserving history and honoring the legacy of those who endured unimaginable hardships. The conversation highlights themes of survival, family, and the quest for understanding one's roots.

Buy the book here 👉🏼 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ballybunion-River-Kwai-Irishmans-Survival-ebook/dp/B0F84BBMHG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1DOUBROQ1B7LH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8ZzpefNLgVr3eeeaTssi6NOcnG37cYsCzxUSQpMVLv3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.2IAO9xKweKxFY1zc4dJhZIWE_rF-_uzFkUVJNygST4I&dib_tag=se&keywords=Ballybunion+to+the+River+Kwai&qid=1752746151&sprefix=ballybunion+to+the+river+kwai%2Caps%2C99&sr=8-1

How It Falls Apart Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds Website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

Takeaways

• Fergus's journey into family history began with a phone call in 1981.
• His father's story as a POW is central to the narrative.
• The conditions in Japanese POW camps were brutal and inhumane.
• Cholera and malnutrition were rampant among prisoners.
• The construction of the Death Railway cost thousands of lives.
• Music and storytelling were vital for maintaining morale among POWs.
• Fergus's father returned home weighing only 84 pounds after the war.
• PTSD and mental health issues were common among returning soldiers.
• The legacy of Irish soldiers in WWII is often overlooked.
• Fergus's book serves as a tribute to his father's resilience and bravery.

Ballybunion, River Kwai, World War II, POW, family history, resilience, survival, Japanese camps, Death Railway, PTSD

Today, we're diving into the chilling and complex world of cults with one of the most respected voices in the field: Rick Alan Ross. Rick is the founder and Executive Director of the Cult Education Institute and is widely recognized as a leading authority on destructive cults, high-control groups, and controversial movements. He’s also the author of the acclaimed book Cults Inside Out: How People Get In and Can Get Out.

Since 1982, Rick has been studying and confronting the dangers posed by authoritarian and manipulative groups. His work has led him to testify as an expert witness in courts across the U.S., including in federal cases, and he has advised law enforcement and government agencies on cult-related matters.

In this episode, we explore it all — from the infamous Waco siege and the Branch Davidians, to the modern-day manipulation of NXIVM. Rick shares firsthand insights into how cults operate, the psychological tactics used by their leaders, and the difficult journey of deprogramming those who’ve been caught in their grip.

We’ll also discuss:

• The most dangerous and insidious cults Rick has encountered
• What drives cult leaders and why people follow them
• The process of intervention and deprogramming
• How social media is fueling a new generation of cult-like influence
• And the legal roadblocks to holding cults accountable

How It Falls Apart Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

Cult Education Website 👉🏼 https://culteducation.com/culteducation.html

Rick's book 📖 https://cultsinsideout.com/

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds Website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

In this episode, filmmaker J.W. Cox shares his journey through the world of filmmaking, discussing his favorite movies, the blending of genres, and the importance of building tension in storytelling. He reflects on the evolution of cinema, the technical aspects of filmmaking, and the challenges faced in the industry. Joe emphasizes the significance of education, the impact of financial literacy on student debt, and the value of pursuing one's passion in the arts. They discuss the importance of practical experience over formal education in creative fields, the transformative impact of AI on jobs and the arts, and the cultural richness of Appalachia.

Joe's Indiegogo Link: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/our-first-movie-end-of-another-time#/

Joe's Website - https://averagejoefilms.com/

How It Falls Apart Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds Website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

Takeaways

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, SFF and horror writer Anthony Ryan discusses the inspiration behind his novel Red River Seven, touching on the influence of the pandemic and the complexities of crafting villains. He explores the blurred lines between heroes and villains, the impact of cultural and historical contexts on writing, and the pursuit of happiness in modern society. Anthony shares insights into his writing journey, the transition from self-publishing to traditional publishing, and the importance of establishing a writing routine. The discussion also delves into the allure of post-apocalyptic fiction and the endless idea generation process that fuels his creativity.

Anthony's website 👉🏼 https://anthonyryan.net/

Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬  https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

Takeaways

Red River Seven, Anthony Ryan, writing process, villains, heroes, post-apocalyptic fiction, happiness, cultural reflections, traditional publishing, idea generation

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

In this episode, we discuss various pressing global issues, including the potential for World War III, the societal impacts of pandemics, and the mysteries surrounding prion diseases and the disappearance of the racehorse Shergar.

We also delve into the portrayal of zombies in media, the psychological effects of torture, and the role of special forces in modern conflicts. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the authenticity of war stories, the rise of operator literature, and the psychological profiles of serial killers, particularly focusing on Andre Chikatilo. They explore the nature of evil, the complexities of human behavior, and the impact of childhood trauma on adult actions. The discussion highlights the intricate relationship between personal history and criminal behavior, emphasizing the need for understanding rather than mere condemnation. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the dark world of serial killers, focusing on specific cases such as Dean Corll and Aileen Wuornos. Lastly, we discuss the innocence of the victims, the investigative oversights that allowed these killers to operate, and the psychological aspects of confession and manipulation.

Descent Into Darkness YT Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DiD86

Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds website - www.darkfindsmedia.com

Takeaways

The threat of global conflict is more pronounced than ever.

Prion diseases are a serious health concern with no cure.

The mystery of Shergar's disappearance remains unsolved.

Zombies in media often blur the lines between fiction and reality.

Torture can lead to false confessions and severe psychological consequences.

Special forces operate under extreme pressure and secrecy.

The portrayal of military operations in media can be misleading.

Public perception of global events is heavily influenced by social media.

Understanding the origins of diseases can help prevent future outbreaks. The authenticity of war stories is often questioned.

Operator literature has become increasingly embellished.

Psychopathy can manifest in extreme behaviors.

Childhood trauma plays a significant role in shaping future actions.

Andre Chikatilo's life reflects a complex interplay of factors leading to his crimes.

Narcissism can drive individuals to commit heinous acts.

Profiling can be a crucial tool in identifying serial killers.

Confessions can be elicited through psychological manipulation.

The case of Dean Corll highlights the horrors of predation.

Accomplices can be groomed and manipulated into participating in crimes.

Understanding the nature vs. nurture debate is essential in criminal psychology.

Aileen Wuornos's case reveals complexities in female serial killers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.