Tonight’s episode explores the rise, transformation, and ongoing controversy surrounding the Remnant Fellowship. What began in the 1980s as a faith-based weight loss program called the Weigh Down Workshop would evolve into a global religious movement built on obedience, discipline, and the belief that putting God first could transform every aspect of life. At the center of it all was Gwen Shamblin Lara, a charismatic figure who drew in thousands with her message of spiritual surrender and control over desire. As her influence grew, so did the structure of the church, expanding into a tightly connected community with its own leadership, teachings, and way of life. But alongside that growth came increasing scrutiny. Former members described control, isolation, and pressure within the group, while critics pointed to controversies involving discipline, finances, and authority. The movement faced national attention following tragic events, including the 2003 child death case linked to members, and the sudden 2021 plane crash that killed Gwen and several key leaders. 

Part 1 – Gwen Shamblin and the Weigh Down Workshop
Part 2 – The Creation of Remnant Fellowship (1999–Early 2000s) 
Part 3 – Beliefs, Control, and Life Inside the Church (2000s–2010s)  
Part 4 – Expansion, Money, Media, and Public Attention (2000s–2021)
Part 5 – The Plane Crash and Leadership Change (2021–2024)


From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place.

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International Resources

• International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA)
  https://www.icsahome.com
  Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.
• Open Minds Foundation
  https://www.openmindsfoundation.org
  Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.
• The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse)
  https://www.thehotline.org
  📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.
• Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan)
  https://freedomofmind.com
  Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.
• FaithTrust Institute
  https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org
  Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.

United States

• Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA)
  📞 1-239-514-3081
  Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.
• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
  https://www.rainn.org
  📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.

Canada 

• Cult & Trauma Support Resources 
• Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.org
• Phone: 📞 514-274-2333
• Email: [email protected]
• Canada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.
• Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French.

United Kingdom

• The Family Survival Trust
  https://familysurvivaltrust.org
  Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.
• Cults Information Centre and Family Support
  https://cults.org.uk
  UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.
• Mind UK (Mental Health Support)
  https://www.mind.org.uk
  📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.

Australia

• Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS)
  https://www.cifs.org.au
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This episode includes AI-generated content.