In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella Mesteneck Young explore the current political climate in the U.S. and its parallels to cult dynamics. They discuss the rise of cult mentality, the deification of leaders, and the implications of executive power. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, collective action, and the role of art in resisting oppressive governance. The hosts encourage listeners to engage with their communities and resist fear-driven narratives, highlighting the need for resilience and creativity in challenging times.

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

Scot's TikTok

@thescotloyd

Takeaways

• The current political climate reflects cult-like dynamics.
• Fear is a tactic used by cult leaders to control.
• Deification of leaders leads to dangerous governance.
• Cults can be led by charismatic individuals or ideas.
• The military operates under a different cult dynamic than political cults.
• Executive power is expanding in ways that threaten democracy.
• Community engagement is crucial for resistance.
• Art and hobbies are vital during oppressive times.
• Panic is counterproductive; planning and action are essential.
• History teaches us that patterns repeat, but not exactly.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cult Dynamics 03:38 The Current Political Climate and Cult Behavior 06:40 The Deification of Leaders 09:33 Cult Language and Tactics 12:44 Military Culture and Cult Dynamics 15:28 The Intersection of Politics and Military 18:38 The Role of Women in Military Cultures 21:36 Concluding Thoughts on Cults and Society 29:09 The Acceleration of Authoritarianism 31:33 The Resilience of American Democracy 34:32 The Dangers of Pendulum Politics 37:36 Historical Context and Future Concerns 40:40 The Impact of Governance on Global Relations 43:37 Strategies for Resilience and Resistance 47:06 Community and Collective Action 51:25 The Role of Hobbies in Times of Oppression