The Cult Vault

In this episode, I speak with Tia Levings, author of 'A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy,' about her experiences escaping Christian patriarchy and the Quiverfull movement. We discuss the nuances of Christian fundamentalism, the emotional toll of patriarchal structures, and the importance of advocacy for women's rights. Tia shares her personal journey of healing and recovery, emphasising the need for societal change and the impact of these ideologies on both women and men. The conversation highlights the urgency of protecting basic rights and the importance of community support in overcoming trauma.

Read Tia's instant NYT bestselling book: https://amzn.eu/d/4dW1vnl

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This episode was created using Spreaker's new brand new CREATE app on iOS with ready-to-use templates, a very to use copyright free library of music and sound effects and instant publishing! Download the app today to start making your podcast a reality! Spreaker

In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey delves into the story of Angel’s Landing, a cult led by Daniel Perez, who manipulated and exploited his followers through financial fraud, sexual abuse and psychological control. The narrative unfolds from Perez’s early life, his rise to power, the communal life at Angel’s Landing, the suspicious deaths of cult members, and the eventual investigation and trial that led to his conviction. The episode serves as a cautionary tale about the vulnerabilities that can be exploited by those in positions of power. 

Sources-
Www.kansas.com/news/local/crime/article240933986.html
Www.judyrecords.com/record/v1pkxnu9fb8d3

In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, I speak with Peter Young, a returning guest and author of 'Stop the Tall Man, Save the Tiger.' Peter shares his personal journey of unwittingly marrying into a cult and the psychological manipulation he faced from the cult leader, Uncle Robert. The conversation delves into the dynamics of cult influence on family relationships, the slow process of indoctrination, and the impact on Peter's marriage and parenting. Peter discusses his recovery journey, the importance of maintaining faith, and the challenges of co-parenting post-separation. The episode concludes with Peter's encouragement for listeners to stay connected and seek support in their lives.

Peter's Memoir "Stop the Tall Man, Save the Tiger: My Journey In and Out of a Cult" - https://amzn.eu/d/bzAm0Or


Get in Touch or Support:
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In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, I speak with Tammie Willis, a survivor of extreme Christian fundamentalism. Tammie shares her journey of escaping a life of coercive control and cultic manipulation, detailing the psychological and emotional impacts of her upbringing. The conversation explores the complexities of fundamentalism, the role of gender, the effects of purity culture, and the challenges faced in education and recovery. Tammie emphasizes the importance of peer support and community in healing from trauma, and she offers insights into the resources available for survivors.

To reach out to Tammie and for more information about recovery resources and survivor discussion groups, please contact: [email protected]

and to access Tammie's PDF on Women in Fundamentalism, please email the above address or [email protected] 

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod
Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault
Gmail: [email protected]

In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, I speak with Lyn Smith-Gregory, the great-grandniece of Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church. Lyn shares her journey from being a devoted believer in the Mormon faith to questioning her beliefs after encountering historical evidence that contradicted her upbringing. She discusses the emotional turmoil of leaving the church, the impact on her family, and her quest for identity and fulfillment outside of the Mormon community. Lyn also touches on her upcoming memoir, 'We Were Smiths,' which explores her experiences and the broader implications of leaving a high-control religion.

Lyn's website: About - Lyn Smith Gregory

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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This conversation delves into the coercive practices of The Way International, focusing on the sexual and reproductive control of women, financial exploitation, and the indoctrination of members. Hannah shares her personal experiences within the cult, highlighting the patriarchal dynamics and the challenges faced by women. The discussion also touches on the cult's control over information, the impact of the Jesus Movement, and the implications of the upcoming Rock of Ages event, which aims to re-establish the cult's presence. Hannah emphasises the importance of awareness and support for those still involved in the cult, advocating for recovery and freedom from its grasp.

Hannah's Substack - https://jenniferhaha.substack.com/publish/home

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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Gmail: [email protected]

In this episode of the Cult Vault Podcast, I engage with author Bart Stewart, who discusses his novel 'The Contraption' and its exploration of cult dynamics. We delve into the historical evolution of cults, the societal neglect surrounding the issue, and the connections between cults and domestic abuse. Bart shares insights from his extensive research and personal experiences, emphasising the need for greater awareness and education on the subject. The conversation also touches on the challenges of promoting literature on cults and the importance of understanding psychological manipulation within these groups.

Grab a copy of Bart's book - The Contraption eBook : Stewart, Barton Allen: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store

and check out Bart's other writing - Amazon.co.uk: Barton Stewart: books, biography, latest update

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod
Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault
Gmail: [email protected]

In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, I speak with Lonnie, a returning guest who has recently published a graphic memoir titled 'Gaytheist: Coming Out of My Orthodox Childhood'. Lonnie shares his journey from growing up in an Orthodox Jewish community in New York to living in Japan, discussing the challenges he faced as a gay man in a restrictive environment. The conversation delves into the complexities of Jewish identity, the intricacies of religious practices, and the contradictions within the community. Lonnie reflects on his experiences, the impact of his upbringing, and the importance of sharing his story through his graphic novel.

Links to Lonnie's work: Gaytheist: Coming Out of My Orthodox Childhood (lonniecomics.com)
American Cult: A Graphic History of Religious Cults in America from the Colonial Era to Today: Amazon.co.uk: Chapman, Robyn: 9781945509636: Books

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod
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Gmail: [email protected]

Another episode, another week of expert interviews. This time, I sit down with Nicole Bedera to talk about her research on sexual violence within universities. Dr. Nicole Bedera is a sociologist and cofounder of the antiviolence consulting practice Beyond Compliance. She received her PhD from the University of Michigan. She has spent more than a decade studying sexual violence and advocating for survivors in media outlets including the New York Times, NPR, and Harper's BAZAAR. Nicole Bedera's debut book: On the Wrong Side: How Universities Protect Perpetrators and Betray Survivors of Sexual Violence is now available for purchase here.

Nicole's website - About | Nicole Bedera, Ph.D.

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod
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Gmail: [email protected]

Hello listeners and welcome back to Season 3 of the Cult Vault Podcast. In this episode, Kacey is joined by longtime friend of the show Lisa VanArsdale. Lisa discusses her ongoing exploration of various cults and religious communities, sharing her experiences and insights from her visits. They delve into the importance of understanding these groups, the live show and podcast Lisa has created, and the dynamics of leadership within cults. The conversation also touches on cultural practices, human rights issues, and the impact of charismatic leaders. Lisa emphasises the need for safety and honesty when engaging with such communities, while also reflecting on her personal growth and future plans.

You can find Lisa's upcoming shows and podcast here: Lisa Joins A Cult – No virgins were sacrificed in the making of this website…

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/
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Gmail: [email protected]