It began with a science fiction writer and a self-help book. Today, it's a billion-dollar religious empire with tax-exempt status, celebrity ambassadors, secret doctrines, and a reputation built on fear and control. In this episode of Hidden Cults, we dive deep into the world of Scientology, from the early writings of L. Ron Hubbard to the rise of David Miscavige, from the promise of spiritual freedom to accusations of surveillance, disconnection, abuse, and coercion.
Part 1 – The Mind Behind the Movement (1911–1950)
Part 2 – From Book to Belief (1950–1954)
Part 3 – Sea Org and Secrecy (1955–1967)
Part 4 – The Watchers and the War (1967–1986)
Part 5 – A New Leader, A New Face (1986–2000)
Part 6 – Cracks in the Facade (2000–2010)
Part 7 – Exposé Era (2010–Present)
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.
New episodes weekly. Listener stories always welcome. Anonymity guaranteed.
Listener stories:
[email protected]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
National support for individuals and families affected by cults.
