Does the perfect facade crafted for millions on social media hide chilling secrets behind closed doors?

In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski had an enlightening conversation with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott about the perplexing case of Ruby Frank and Jodie Hildebrandt, two women whose questionable behaviors recently made headlines. The revelations from this story were not just deeply unsettling, but they also shine a spotlight on a concerning trend in the Mormon faith.

Ruby Frank, known for her "curated blonde, attractive appearance" and vast reach on YouTube, gathered over two and a half million subscribers who were torn between admiration and distaste for her parenting approach. On the surface, Frank’s parenting seemed rooted in old-school methods, such as not delivering a forgotten lunch to ensure a lesson is learned. However, as Brueski pointed out, there's a "world of difference developmentally between a six-year-old and a 12-year-old," and perhaps, Frank’s judgments were misplaced or even detrimental.

While many saw her as pious and strict, others were horrified by her on-screen demeanor towards her children. Beyond the camera, darker details began to emerge, hinting at a deeply troubling double life. But it poses a compelling question: "Is this more common than we think of individuals very heavy on social media?" as Brueski inquired. The way Frank presented herself was like a facade, expertly crafted for her online audience, all while hiding disturbing behaviors.

The mystery deepens with Jodie Hildebrandt, described as a mix between a therapist and a cult leader, who shared a dubious business venture with Frank. Their "counseling agency" oddly focused on topics such as preventing masturbation and the dangers of sexuality. Comparing them to the notorious Chad and Lori Daybell, Scott remarked, "when you put nutty people together, it just sort of amplifies and intensifies."

One can't ignore the apparent pattern of alarming incidents emerging from the Mormon or Latter-day Saint (LDS) faith. While both hosts emphasized that their intent wasn't to cast a shadow over the entire religion, there seems to be a growing list of individuals within the faith showcasing detrimental behavior. If such attitudes are increasingly emanating from the community, is it then, as Brueski suggests, "something to be looked at"?

Ruby Frank's daughter's testimony adds another layer to this chilling tale. After Frank's arrest, her 20-year-old daughter took to social media with a single word: "finally." She revealed her unsuccessful attempts to report her mother's actions for years. This points to a wider systemic issue. Scott hinted at a potential failure of Child Protection Services (CPS) due to lack of funding or staff, a plight that's unfortunately familiar in many jurisdictions.

As the discussion veered towards Frank’s husband, a college professor, opinions diverged. While he claimed ignorance regarding the abusive behaviors, Scott found it hard to label him a victim. Was he passive, turning a blind eye to Frank's actions, or complicit in them? If the latter, where does one draw the line between moral and legal responsibility?

The story of Ruby Frank and Jodie Hildebrandt is a distressing reminder of the facades people can build, especially in the age of social media, and the hidden dangers lurking beneath seemingly perfect exteriors. As Brueski and Scott delved deep into this harrowing tale, listeners are left contemplating the complexities of human behavior, societal pressures, and the power dynamics within family units.

In a world where our online selves often differ from reality, how many more secrets remain hidden behind the screens?

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