TW: Infant death, diets, eating disorders, cults, child abuse

Gwen Shamblin has gone down in history for her promotion of a very specific Christian lifestyle. One that included harsh discipline in daily life. The kind of discipline that caused eating disorders and child abuse in members of this church.

10:40- 17:06 Daniela discusses her experience growing up with ties to Gwen’s teachings—unbeknownst to her.

17:10 Gwen Shamblin’s marriages and divorce becomes accepted by followers.

18:32  The church’s teachings become a lifestyle and brand built on being thin and sin-free.

Gwen loses her infant son to SIDS and she uses this as a tool in her rise in power.

20:25 Gwen’s son Michael stuggled to fit the image the church portrayed, his presence onstage was no longer required.

Members are negatively impacted by the rules of the church—a murder is linked to the church however it’s only fuel for her mission as she defends her teachings.

25:49: Joe Lara’s background and his role in Gwen’s life.

29:33 As she enjoyed her peak, she falls from grace, along with her empire. what will the future hold for the church?

Resources Hotlines:

-https://www.thehotline.org/resources/what-is-spiritual-abuse/

-https://www.tearsofeden.org/

-https://forensiccounselor.org/?Topics_of_Interest__Cults_and_Support_for_Former_Cult_Members

-https://www.peopleleavecults.com/

https://www.aetv.com/shows/cults-and-extreme-belief/exclusives/cults-and-extreme-belief-resources

-https://www.recoveringfromreligion.org/#rfr-welcome

-https://www.reclamationcollective.com/

Sources:

-https://allthatsinteresting.com/gwen-shamblin

-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwen_Shamblin_Lara