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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https://www.tiktok.com/@clareheathmcivor

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

#cultsurvivor #cult #citybuilders #religioustrauma #cultinquiry #cultawareness

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.

Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to hear incredible stories from survivor's of cults and coercive control.

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Eugenics Crusade PBS documentary:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmRb-0v5xfI

#history #cultsurvivors #cults #eugenics #patterns #culture #plato #philosophy

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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#churchabuse #religioustrauma #survivors #cult #cultsurvivors #awareness #badleadership

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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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@i_am_art_jeremypaskell

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https://www.instagram.com/i_am_art_jeremypaskell/

Support Jeremy's Art:

Shop: https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeremypaskell/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/greenfinhawk/

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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.

Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Like and subscribe for more compelling interviews with survivors of coercive control who are using their voices and reclaiming their power.

Follow Roy Clemenz:

Clemenz with a Z website:

https://www.clemenzwithaz.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/clemenzwithazpodcast/

Substack:

https://substack.com/@clemenzwithaz

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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.

Support The Bloody Tuesdays:

https://thebloodytuesdays.bandcamp.com/

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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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https://www.tiktok.com/@cult.life.escaped

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YouTube: 

⁨@CultLifeEscaped⁩ 

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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.

Thank you for watching DisAllusioned Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe for more discussions and interviews focusing on coercive control and the cult dynamic.

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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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