Shows
Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanTuning In: Experiencing Music in Psychedelic States, a new book by former Hare Krishna devotee Steven J. GelbergThis interview had two foci: ISKCON and Tulsi Gabbard’s Connection to Krishna Hinduism and his new academic book on music and its role in psychedelics states. Gelberg was a Krishna devotee for 17 years and has written about his experiences with the cult and why he exited. He is now a successful photographer and author. We discussed the more recent finding that Tulsi Gabbard, nominated by Trump to be Director of National Intelligence, shows ties to Krishna Hinduism and ISKCON. Chris Butler, who is the guru of Tulsi Gabbard, was a disciple of the Krishna movement and Prabhupada. The gr...2025-02-031h 05Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanOnline Radicalization with Data Scientist Dr. Stuart ShulmanAnalyzing online content and how people interact with that content is essential to understanding the process of online radicalization. Twitter/ X has been a major source of information for tracking QAnon and many bad actors from Russia as well as Christian Dominionists, Neo Nazis, and others. Bad actors worldwide use social media to post content to arouse emotions and create chaos. Distrust and polarization. With algorithms instantly and repeatedly feeding similar content, it is easy to go down a rabbit hole of authoritarian creation, resulting in undue influence. Dr. Stuart Shulman is the founding Editor of the Journal of...2024-02-261h 02Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanTaking Down Trump: 12 Rules for Prosecuting Donald Trump by Someone Who Did It Successfully with Tristan SnellThe Trump University grift followed the same playbook as many predatory organizations, like Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) organizations. Victims are hooked through legitimate sounding offers, like a weekend sales course for $1,500. However, once the victims attend the weekend sales course, they are pressured into buying more courses for more money to achieve goals too good to be true. It’s a classic bait-and-switch. So, how can regular people receive justice when high-powered people and organizations wield deception and cult-like practices? That’s where Tristan Snell comes in. Snell is a lawyer and legal commentator featured on MSNBC, NPR, in the Wash...2024-02-191h 04Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanTheocratic Politics & The New Apostolic Reformation with André Gagné and Frederick ClarksonIn this era of political polarization, the landscape in the United States is marked by the rise of Donald Trump as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential election. This despite Trump facing numerous legal challenges–including over his involvement in the January 6th attack on the United States Capitol. However, Trump and his supporters are but the most visible element. The New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is increasingly taking over the religious right movement and, in turn, influencing the Republican Party, which holds implications for Christianity and the future of democracy. The NAR is closely aligned with th...2024-02-121h 08Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanTESCREAL hallucinations: Psychedelic and AI hype as inequality engines with Neşe Devenot, PhDNeşe Devenot is a Postdoctoral Associate at the Institute for Research in Sensing (IRiS) at the University of Cincinnati and the Medicine, Society & Culture Research Fellow at Psymposia. I decided to use the title of her profoundly important journal article for this podcast. Psychedelics are all the rage. When I gave a talk at the American Psychiatric Association, there were many, many talks about the studies being done to see how drugs like psilocybin, ketamine, and MDMA might assist psychotherapeutically. However, many people are experimenting on their own. Some get caught up with a malignant narcissist “shaman” or teach...2024-02-051h 05Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanAI, Technology & Mind Control Topics in Natural Wellness and Spiritual Communities with Dr. Melanie TrowbridgeNatural medicine might seem distant from the far-right fringes of society until you dig a little deeper and find the wealth of ‘wellness products’ being sold alongside political conspiracies. There is a constant quest for increasing well-being and less ‘toxic’ lifestyles. Meanwhile, conspiracy theories drain resources and instill fears, including political plots, controls, and cabals. It happens in the extremes on all sides, the quest for health alongside an implanted mission searching for “the truth.” Time magazine printed a November 2023 article called Wellness Conspiracy Theories are Spreading and highlighted the topic known colloquially as “conspirituality.” This leaves people simply seeking to feel...2024-01-291h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanRevitalizing Non-partisan Civics Education with iCivics.org Chief Louise DubéSupreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the founder of iCivics, said, "The practice of democracy is not passed down through the gene pool. It must be taught and learned by each new generation." It is the continuing mission of the iCivics organization and its current Chief Executive Officer, Louise Dubé, to ensure that future generations of Americans receive meaningful, high-quality, non-partisan civics education through the 145,000 educators and 9 million students in all 50 states served through this free-to-the-public program. Civics education is a cornerstone of learning in the United States. It is the curriculum mortar that helps to hold our democracy t...2024-01-2258 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanWhen Religion Hurts You: Healing from Religious Trauma and the Impact of High Control Religion with Dr. Laura E. AndersonLaura E. Anderson, PhD, was raised in a Christian family and experienced first hand what religious trauma is all about. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a Ph.D. in Mind Body Medicine from Saybrook University. She specializes in complex trauma, with a particular focus on domestic violence, sexualized violence, and religious trauma. Her new book is When Religion Hurts You: Healing from Religious Trauma and the Impact of High Control Religion. She founded and directs the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery. She supports religious belief and involvement and wants people to be healthy. In...2024-01-151h 04Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanBreaking the Silence: Alva Johnson’s Journey in the Cult of Trump as the 2016 campaign’s Director of Outreach and CoalitionsLegally released from an unenforceable NDA, the former 2016 campaign staffer discusses the cult-building tactics, Russian interference, and the who’s who of bad actors behind the scenes of the Trump campaign. Joining the campaign when then-candidate Trump was polling last in the GOP field, Alva is one of the very few former campaign staffers who worked under Corey Lewandowski, Paul Manafort, Dave Bossie, and Steve Bannon. Alva quit Trump the day the Access Hollywood tape was released, as she experienced remarkably similar behavior towards her from him as described in his Access Hollywood hot mic. Freed from the legal ra...2024-01-081h 10Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Convergence of Cult Experience and Military Indoctrination with Former Army Captain Daniella Mestyanek YoungEver wonder about basic training in the military? What about how the BITE Model of Authoritarian Control applies to military personnel? With so many veterans who have returned to society, many do not seem to have been given the necessary psychological support to integrate and thrive. There is large amounts of active trauma as well as a high suicide rate. In 2022, Daniella Mestyanek Young acclaimed memoir Uncultured was published. It delved into being born into the Children of God sex cult, escaping, enlisting in officer’s training and her experiences as one of the first women to be in ac...2023-12-251h 08Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanUnveiling the La Luz del Mundo Cult: Sochil Martin’s Story of ResilienceSochil Martin is a Mexican-American woman who was born and raised in a religious high control group called La Luz del Mundo (LDM), which claims to have over 5 million members in 58 countries worldwide. This group was established in 1926 and features a power structure like New Apostolic Reformation megachurches. It has been very involved in politics. LDM has been a part of Sochil’s family for four generations, starting with her great-grandmother being brought into the cult in Baja, California, Mexico. With the support of her husband, Sochil managed to escape from LDM and embarked on a journey to seek ju...2023-12-181h 10Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanMussolini to the Present- The Rising Tide of Online Authoritarian Influence with Ruth Ben-GhiatNavigating a deeply divided, polarized world filled with vulnerable souls to the siren calls of conspiracy theories, I find it essential to shine a light on the shadows where undue influence thrives. In this discussion with historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat, we discuss the subtle and often sinister ways authoritarianism intertwines with the psychological mechanisms of control. We connect the dots from my experiences with cults and coercive persuasion. Ruth Ben-Ghiat is an NYU professor and expert on fascism and authoritarianism, a celebrated author, MSNBC columnist, and consultant, including for del Toro’s Oscar-winning ‘Pinocchio.’ Her book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Presen...2023-12-1147 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Transformative Power of Wonder with Monica C. ParkerMonica C. Parker has authored a remarkable book which was such a positive in the current concerning times. It is titled, The Power of Wonder: The Extraordinary Emotion That Will Change the Way You Live Learn and Lead. Our conversation delved into how this powerful emotion could revolutionize learning, relationships, work, and societal interactions in today’s world, increasingly fragmented by polarization, stress, and a lack of empathy. In an era overwhelmed by digital saturation and ideological extremes, the potential of wonder can be leveraged as a tool to restore balance, encourage open-mindedness, and foster positive social connections. Parker’s wo...2023-12-0457 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanBreaking the Chains: The Role of Mind Control in Human Trafficking with Rebecca BenderHuman trafficking is defined in international law as the use of fraud, force, or coercion to enslave people. It is a scourge that operates not just through physical coercion but through the devastating use of mind control, a method of psychological enslavement. Rebecca Bender is a courageous survivor and advocate who works tirelessly to empower survivors, train law enforcement, do expert witness work, and assist policymakers. She created the Rebecca Bender Initiative and the online Elevate Academy, which empowers trafficking survivors over the age of eighteen to move forward with their lives. She found encouragement and mentorship from Carissa...2023-11-2759 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanKochland: The Secret History of Koch Industries and Corporate Power in America with Christopher LeonardDid you know that Koch Corporation is the second largest private business in the United States? That Fred Koch, father of David Koch, helped to found the John Birch Society? That Koch is one of the largest corporate lobbying entities in America. That their belief is libertarianism is a destructive ideology that undermines government functioning? That they have been promoting climate science denial for decades? What about that the way the organization functions it resembles a corporate cult? Koch is funding “free speech” that is causing so much dissention and hate speech. This was one of the most important inte...2023-11-201h 00Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Case for Debunking Medical Cannabis Myths with Peter Grinspoon, M.D.In his latest book, Seeing Through the Smoke: A Cannabis Specialist Untangles the Truth About Marijuana, Peter Grinspoon, M.D. has written an excellent, comprehensive, and authoritative book. Grinspoon is a primary care doctor at Massachusetts General Hospital and an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He has been a medical cannabis specialist for over twenty-five years. Dr. Grinspoon, a popular speaker, is frequently featured in the national media on issues such as cannabis, addiction, and physician health. His father, Harvard psychiatrist Lester Grinspoon published the well-respected but controversial book, Marihuana Reconsidered in 1971. Peter’s brother Danny suffered fr...2023-11-131h 00Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanHow to Be Spiritual in These Crazy Times: A Guide with Philip GoldbergPhilip Goldberg has been studying the world’s spiritual traditions for more than 50 years as a practitioner, teacher, and author. An ordained Interfaith Minister, spiritual counselor, and public speaker, he has presented at major venues throughout the U.S. and has been featured in numerous publications. He has authored or co-authored more than 25 books,and his latest offering is Spiritual Practice for Crazy Times: Powerful Tools to Cultivate Clarity, Calm and Courage. Phil has taught courses on various online platforms, hosts the Spirit Matters podcast, and serves on the board of the Association for Spiritual Integrity. Recognizing the prevalence of...2023-11-061h 03Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanTroubled Teen Industry Abuse with Former Victim Melanie Friedman LCSWDo you worry about your teenager's safety and fear they could fall into the deceptive webs of manipulative, cult-like groups? Are you a desperate parent seeking intervention services for your struggling teen? If so, you can't afford to miss this interview with Melanie, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a survivor of the infamous Troubled Teen Industry —a largely unregulated web of residential behavior modification programs notorious for subjecting struggling teens to various forms of abuse. Our riveting dialogue focuses on these unregulated behavior modification programs' stark realities and untold abuses. Melanie's mission is to raise awareness and educate me...2023-10-301h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Assemblies of God; Secrets of a High Demand Church with Paul JensenGrowing up in the Assemblies of God, the second-largest Pentecostal denomination in the United States with approximately three million members, Paul Jensen witnessed firsthand the controversial culture and beliefs that define this religious movement. Founded in 1914 and initially considered a fringe group by mainstream Protestant denominations, the Assemblies of God gradually gained acceptance. However, as Paul discovered, this movement’s high-demand and questionable history are often concealed from public scrutiny. He shared his journey of discovery after growing up in the Assemblies of God, the world’s largest denomination of the Pentecostal and Charismatic “Spirit Led” movement. He reveals the litt...2023-10-231h 07Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanFrom MAGA Activist to National Healer with Rich LogisIn a world marked by political extremes, high-control groups, and the Influence Continuum, the story of Rich Logis stands out as both compelling and enlightening. Formerly a true believer pundit for the MAGA movement, Rich’s transformation offers a deep dive into the mechanics of belief, mind control, the allure of belonging, and the power of self-reflection and transformation. Rich Logis was a podcaster and deeply committed MAGA activist. His journey resonates with what I’ve observed repeatedly: deceptive recruitment, emotional manipulation, and information control that exploits the deep-seated human need to belong and make a difference. Yet, the mome...2023-10-161h 10Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanLarge Group Awareness Trainings (LGATs) Weaponize Dopamine to Manipulate People with John Hunter, PhDLarge Group Awareness Trainings (LGATs) bill themselves as transformational multi-day workshops. You often feel pressured to attend, perhaps by your corporation or a family member or friend, and you are deliberately not told what will happen there. These workshops often utilize eight to twelve-hour marathon sessions to wear down a person's identity. According to research by South African Dr. John Hunter, they artificially create bipolar states in participants. Hunter offers a fresh and unique analytical framework to explain the highs people experience at the end of a "training." He is a researcher and lecturer based in Johannesburg. His interest...2023-10-091h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanUtilizing Creative Therapies for Healing and Empowerment with Esther FriedmanEsther Friedman is an expressive therapist and former five-year member of the Odyssey Study Group (OSG), a secretive cult utilizing the Gurdjieff ideology. Her excellent book is The Gentle Souls Revolution: A Secret Cult, an Open Rebellion, and Lessons in Protecting and Honoring Your Gentle Soul. This memoir and guide offer valuable insights and guidance for survivors of narcissistic abuse. It serves as a roadmap for those seeking to heal and rebuild their lives after leaving a cult. Through her personal experiences and professional expertise, Esther provides practical tools and strategies for navigating the complex emotions and challenges that...2023-10-021h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanWisdom from the Psychedelic Underground with Rachel Harris, PhDOne of the hottest topics in modern psychology is utilizing psychedelics to aid psychotherapy. Research is being conducted on the potentially beneficial use of substances like psilocybin, LSD, DMT, and MDMA in a controlled environment. In recent years, it’s gotten attention for its efficacy in treating treatment-resistant depression and PTSD, addiction, and end-of-life anxiety. Related to this is the psychedelic underground, a movement that similarly wants to use these substances to improve lives but takes a different, more spiritual approach. I spoke with Rachel Harris, who has experience in both, about this exciting world. Rachel is the author of...2023-09-251h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanRedemption and the Prison System with Ramadan Shabazz and Richard Parker, MDRamadan was freed from prison on March 15th 2023, after 51 years of incarceration by the parole board and finally Governor Baker who commuted his life sentence. A Vietnam vet Shabazz suffered PTSD and drug addiction upon his return from service and got involved in armed robbery that resulted in the deaths of two innocent people. He was initially sentenced to death. Ramadan Shabazz is a rare success story and a model that proves a person who commits a horrible crime can reform and truly become a model citizen. In 1983, he began his 40-year association with the Parker family. While incarcerated, Rama...2023-09-1849 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanFinding Her Way Out of Scientology’s Infamous Sea Org with Katherine SpallinoWith Scientologist celebrity Danny Masterson being sentenced to 30 years in jail for brutal rapes recently, I want people to hear from a woman who was forced to grow up in this notorious cult., Katherine Spallino, the author of a new book, The Bad Cadet: Growing Up in the Church of Scientology’s Sea Organization, has had quite a life journey. Katherine grew up on a secluded ranch within the cadet org, Scientology’s Sea Org school for children. At a young age, Katherine began to journal about her day-to-day life, capturing the thoughts and experiences of a child coming of a...2023-09-1159 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanSurviving our Catastrophes: Celebrating the Resilience and Renewal of Survivors with Robert Jay Lifton, M.D.I speak with the acclaimed psychiatrist and my mentor, Robert Jay Lifton, M.D., about his new book, Surviving Our Catastrophes: Resilience and Renewal from Hiroshima to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Lifton’s research on thought reform and the psychology of totalism, specifically his study on “brainwashing” in China, has been widely regarded as groundbreaking. His book Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism (1961) was used in my deprogramming. It was Lifton who encouraged my career which has spanned 47 years. In this new book, Lifton delves into “Survivor Power” and the transformation from victimhood to survivorship. He emphasizes the importance of drawing...2023-09-0441 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Dangerous Case of Donald Trump and Censorship of Experts with Bandy X. Lee M.D.I talk with the forensic psychiatrist and an internationally recognized expert on violence who edited the best-selling book, The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump: 37 Psychiatrists and Mental Health Experts Assess a President. Years after she and other mental health experts warned Trump was unfit and a danger to the public, we continue to see vivid proof that the public has suffered by censoring experts! Her recent book is Profile of a Nation: Trump’s Mind, America’s Soul. What was behind the mainstream media silencing of credible experts like Dr. Lee and myself? We discuss this and many important topi...2023-08-281h 03Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanChinese Netizen’s Protests and Freedom of Mind as a Human Right with Matthew BywaterDid you know that my BITE Model of Authoritarian Control was translated into Chinese and used by Chinese netizens during the November 2022 protests in China against the zero covid lockdown policy? This week’s fascinating interview is with Matt Bywater, who lived in China for years teaching English and who is now on a quest to do a PhD to create a new internationally recognized human right: Freedom of Mind. Matthew Bywater learned about Freedom of Mind from a statement on the World Mental Health Coalition founded by forensic psychiatrist Bandy X. Lee. Dr. Bandy X. Lee edi...2023-08-211h 05Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanExiting the Cult of Trump with #Jan6er Pam HemphillPam is a 70-year-old Boise, Idaho resident, who, while recovering from cancer treatment traveled to Washington, DC and was arrested, charged and sentenced for her connection to the January 6th 2021 attack. Hemphill pled guilty and was sentenced to 60 days in jail, 36 months of probation and fined $500 in restitution. Jack Smith has now announced that Trump has been indicted and faces four counts of Federal charges for his activity regarding the insurrection attempt. Pam Hemphill has been active calling out Trump and the MAGA cult for using her for propaganda on his Truth Social platform. Hemphill chose to plead guilty...2023-08-071h 07Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanSins of my Father: Growing up with America's Most Dangerous White Supremacist with Kelvin PierceKelvin’s father, Dr. William Pierce, was a notorious white supremacist and founded the National Alliance, a prominent hate group. Dr. Pierce wrote the novel The Turner Diaries, which racists widely cite as inspiration for their racist beliefs and actions. Kelvin was subjected to physical and emotional abuse and was taught to believe that Jews and non-whites were responsible for society's ills. Despite the personal abuse he suffered, Kelvin accepted his father's teachings and held onto these racist beliefs as he transitioned into adulthood. It shaped his worldview and interactions with others, even though he didn't openly broadcast these be...2023-07-3158 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Rod of Fear: Combating Gun Violence with Jonathan LowyGun-related deaths are already over 17,000 as of May of this year. In 2021, they were at their highest ever at almost 50,000 murders, suicides, and accidental deaths involving firearms. These statistics are personal to me due to my experiences in the Moonies cult with the Rod of Iron Ministries, Kahr Arms, the AR15 factory, and two compounds (TN and TX) training people for civil war. I spoke with expert Jonathan Lowy who told me he successfully sued Kahr Arms. Jonathan founded Global Action on Gun Violence, a nonprofit working with the international community to stop gun trafficking and violence through litigation...2023-07-241h 02Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanUnmasking the Kundalini Yoga Cult of Yogi Bhajan With Els CoenenUnder the Yoga Mat: The Dark History of Bhajan’s Kundalini Yoga, is a new book that helps expose the destructive authoritarian cult of Yogi Bhajan, Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO). When allegations of half a century of concealed abuse and criminal actions by Bhajan and his associates came to light in early 2020, which impacted the lives of hundreds of his followers and their children, Els Coenen, Ph.D., felt compelled to stop teaching and promoting kundalini Yoga and wish to help reveal the facts. In 2021, she created the website Abuse in Kundalini Yoga, a platform aimed at exposing an...2023-07-171h 02Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanForager: Field Notes on Surviving a Family Cult with Michelle DowdMichelle’s memoir, Forager: Field Notes on Surviving a Family Cult, showcases her life growing up on an isolated mountain in California as part of an apocalyptic cult and how she found her way out of poverty and illness by drawing on the gifts of the wilderness. Michelle was raised on a mountain in the Angeles National Forest, where she learned to identify flora and fauna, navigate by the stars, forage for edible plants, and care for the earth. A highly accomplished journalism professor and contributor to many top national publications, she was the 2022 Faculty Lecturer of the Year at...2023-07-101h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanCountry Over Party: An Interview with Denver RigglemanThe Breach: The Untold Story of the Investigation into January 6th is former Republican congressman Denver Riggleman’s book as a senior technical advisor for the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the US Capitol. Denver Riggleman has served for over two decades as an intelligence officer, NSA adviser, federal contractor, research and development technology lead, and successful CEO of support companies for the Department of Defense. A veteran of the Global War on Terror and multiple worldwide operations, he served honorably in the US Air Force for nine active-duty years. We discuss his exit of...2023-07-031h 05Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanForensic Psychologist and Cult Expert Dr. Steve Eichel on Hypnosis, Social Contagion, and DisinformationThere are few people in the field of forensic psychology with the training, background, and experience of Dr. Steve Eichel. In 1975, almost a year before I was deprogrammed from the Moonies, he decided to do his dissertation research on my former cult. He has had a long distinguished career, serving as the President of the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA), and remains an active member of their Board of Directors. He has been published extensively in the field and has served as an expert witness on undue influence in many cases. I asked him about his experience working for...2023-06-261h 06Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Brainwashing of My Dad with Jen SenkoWith Trump’s Indictment, the GOP is being described as the Cult of Trump, and the other GOP candidates are scrambling to figure out how to position themselves. Come listen to a fascinating talk with the award-winning documentarian Jen Senko on her film, The Brainwashing of My Dad, and the book based on it. Jen Senko’s experience with her father, Frank, hits close to home for many Americans today. Frank was a happy-go-lucky progressive Democrat when he came across a talk radio show hosted by Bob Grant. He started being more critical of Democrats and was somewhat combative about...2023-06-191h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanYOU-KNOW-WHO: An Alienated Daughter’s Memoir with Dana LaquidaraParental alienation is a highly destructive form of undue influence where one parent systematically manipulates their children to reject the other parent. This damaging form of psychological abuse not only disrupts family dynamics but can also leave lasting emotional scars on the child, potentially impacting their development, mental health, and future relationships. Often, children are not only alienated from their mother or their father but the entire side of the family, traumatizing all who are related. The BITE Model of Authoritarian Control can be used to analyze any case. I have previously done multiple blogs on this topic. Dana...2023-06-121h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanElizabeth Holmes’ Theranos Corporate Cult with Dr. Dennis TourishElizabeth Holmes, founder and CEO of Theranos, was convicted of fraud and sentenced to 11 years in jail. Her company claimed to be able to determine health issues from merely a pinprick of blood. She conned many famous, educated people, and the company was valued at hundreds of millions of dollars. Dr. Dennis Tourish is a Professor of Leadership and Organization Studies at the University of Sussex Business School and wrote a journal article on Theranos as an authoritarian corporate cult. Dr. Tourish was himself involved in a left-wing political cult and wrote the book On the Edge: Political Cults o...2023-05-2954 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanPlaying God: American Catholic Bishops and the Far Right with Mary Jo McConahayFor anyone interested in understanding why religious extremism has such a large influence in America, this fascinating interview focuses on an elite group of Catholic Bishops who oppose the current Pope and his policies of wishing to move the Church away from its abusive authoritarian past. Want to understand more about our current Supreme Court and why they demonstrated that they lied during their confirmation hearings when they said that Roe v. Wade was established law after fifty years. As soon as they had the majority, they showed their true allegiance, and it wasn't to the law and the...2023-05-221h 09Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Gaslight Effect: Protecting Yourself from Emotional Abuse with Dr. Robin SternThe term ‘gaslight effect’ was introduced by Dr. Robin Stern in her 2007 book to describe the long-term consequences of persistent gaslighting, a subtle and often hidden form of emotional abuse. Gaslighting is a devastating form of undue influence. It occurs when an individual manipulates another person by distorting, twisting, and dismissing their experiences, making them question their memories, perceptions, and reality. Gaslighting can occur in a romantic relationship, among family members, in the workplace, within mind control cults as well as by politicians. Robin Stern, Ph.D., has been a practicing psychoanalyst for over thirty years and is the co-f...2023-05-1559 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanOvercoming Sleep Challenges with Dr. Lauren Broch, Psychologist, and Sleep SpecialistDid you know most people need 7-9 hours of quality sleep to function optimally? Sleep deprivation is one of the most common and powerful techniques for weakening psychological defenses. It is one of the most significant policies in the Behavior Control criteria of the BITE Model of Authoritarian Control. I recently had the opportunity to interview sleep expert Dr. Lauren Broch to gain a deeper insight into prevalent sleep issues that individuals face and to explore effective sleep hygiene habits that can help to overcome these obstacles. Dr. Lauren Broch is a clinical psychologist, nutritionist, and sleep disorders specialist...2023-05-0156 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanAttorney Faith Jones, ex-Children of God, on “I Own Me”International corporate attorney and strategic business advisor Faith Jones is a phenomenon. She authored two books: Sex Cult Nun and I Own Me. She explains her model for utilizing the law regarding undue influence in a great TEDx talk: I Own Me: Understanding Our Property Rights to Our Own Bodies. Faith Jones is an inspiration to all women and especially to those born and raised in authoritarian cults. Join us for a fascinating discussion.Learn more about Steven Hassan and Freedom of Mind Resource Center. Visit freedomofmind.com Learn more about your ad c...2023-04-241h 07Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanAttorney Bobby Samini and former ICOC leader Michele Roland discuss their lawsuits on behalf of former members of this Bible cultShepherding/discipling Bible cults like the International Churches of Christ have an authoritarian structure with the “apostle” or “prophet” being the person closest to God and everyone else having a human to disciple over them all the way down. It is patently abusive by its nature as it is based on submission of one’s own conscience and following directions of a person who is in the “role of Jesus” over them. Lawsuits are being filed on behalf of those victimized in the cult, some of whom were sexually assaulted in the group and no responsible action was taken. Over one milli...2023-04-171h 05Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanWatchtower Society: Understanding the Jehovah's Witnesses with Isaac CarmignaniThe Jehovah's Witnesses have millions of members and are well-known for their door-to-door solicitation and distribution of materials, such as their Watchtower and Awake! magazines. However, most people do not realize the authoritarian BITE Model policies that affect their believers. Former elder Isaac Carmignani, a friend and colleague, shares the critically important facts about the Jehovah's Witnesses. Did you know they have prophesied at least 4 times that Armageddon would occur in a particular year? Or that Bible scholars say their version is wrong? Or that they practice corporal punishment? Prohibit blood transfusions? Shun former members? Or that they have...2023-04-101h 11Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanBirth, Parenting, and Empowerment with Birth Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor, and New Parent Educator Julie HartmanOn the ethical side of the Influence Continuum, we invite an expert to discuss preparing how to do ethical parenting. Julie Hartman is a Certified Birth Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor, and New Parent Educator. She supports families in the perinatal period through support groups and teaching classes on living with a newborn. Most importantly, she is the mom of three adult children and can connect with the people she works with through shared experiences. We discuss what a doula and lactation counselor is, as many people are unaware. Julie tells us a birth doula is often confused with a m...2023-04-031h 09Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanFreeing People from Indoctrination with Rachel Bernstein, LMFTWorking with people in cults or who have escaped them requires much empathy, compassion, and knowledge. Rachel Bernstein has all those and more, which she’s used for the last 30 years in her work in cult intervention and re-acclimation. I have known and worked with Rachel for many decades now. Bernstein is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) from Los Angeles, California. She is the host of IndoctriNATION: A weekly podcast covering cults, manipulators, and protecting yourself from systems of control, where she has interviewed hundreds of cult survivors, journalists, and experts. Learn more about Steven Has...2023-03-271h 05Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanNazis in Copley Square: The Forgotten History of the Christian Front with Charles R. GallagherRachel Maddow’s podcast, Ultra, is about Nazism in the United States in the 1930s and 1940s. She based her podcast on the scholarly work of a Jesuit historian Professor Charles R. Gallagher, and his award-winning book. I was fascinated to learn more and discovered that he teaches at nearby Boston College. So we met for lunch, and he kindly consented to this fascinating interview. I learned that the Nazis sent agents such as Charles Scholtz to Boston to recruit and radicalize Americans. These agents wanted to prevent the United States from coming to the defense of the United Kin...2023-03-2057 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanHow Online Spaces and Communities are Indoctrinating Gen Z and Gen A with Chloe CombiAn international researcher and author, Chloe Combi, is a leading authority on Generation Z (those born between 1999 and 2009). Having interviewed over 10,000 members of Gen Z, she provides invaluable insights into what the next decade and beyond will bring. The digital age has brought about a massive change in the way we think, feel, communicate, and behave. For young people born and raised in a digital world, being online for an average of eleven hours a day affects not only their brain development, such as shortened attention span, ability to concentrate, social skills, and mental well-being. As well as this...2023-03-131h 08Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanBorn Into and Married in the Moon cult with Elgen StraitWant to know more about the Moonies? This week, we talk with Elgen Strait, who was not only born into the Moonies but participated in an arranged mass marriage ceremony (the so-called “blessing”). His parents were active members when I was in the cult in the 1970s. He’s a fellow survivor. Strait hosts Falling Out with Elgen Strait, a podcast focused on the experiences of second-generation survivors of the Moonies. This episode goes into not only the abuse of children but also the trafficking of people. There are many “second generation” cult members now exiting and speaking up. This is a v...2023-03-061h 00Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanAutism, Extremism, and Protecting the Vulnerable with Dr. Tony AttwoodWish to learn more about the psychology of Elon Musk and Aspergers Syndrome? In this episode, I am honored to interview Dr. Tony Attwood, one of the world’s foremost experts on Autism Spectrum Disorder. His first book, Asperger’s Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals, is widely considered the foundational book on the subject. In past decades, I have had many clients who were on the spectrum and I long ago realized they are particularly vulnerable to authoritarian cults, as well as being radicalized online to do acts of terrorism. Years ago I taught an online webinar to w...2023-02-2745 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanShadow Network: Media, Money, and the Secret Hub of the Radical Right with Anne NelsonEver heard of the Council for National Policy? Wish to understand this alliance of far-right wealthy donors and operators (which includes my former cult, the Moonies)? For everyone who cares about America and democracy worldwide, this interview is vitally important. Anne Nelson talks to us about this and more, including her book Shadow Network: Media, Money, and the Secret Hub of the Radical Right. Nelson is a prize-winning writer, contributing to the New Republic, the Washington Spectator, and the Times Literary Supplement. She is also a research scholar at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs....2023-02-201h 04Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanMormonism, Mental Health, and Whistleblowing with Dr. John DehlinWhistleblowers often suffer consequences for speaking out, and our guest Dr. John Dehlin knows that first-hand. A 6th generation member, he was excommunicated from the Church of Latter Day Saints (LDS) for speaking up about gay rights and the suicide problem within the LDS church. They didn't like him raising those issues, but he persevered and is now helping others find their way out of religious faith crises and transition to a free life. Dr. Dehlin holds a master's degree in instructional technology and a Ph.D. in Clinical and Counseling Psychology. His interests revolve around the nexus of...2023-02-131h 03Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanRecruited at Sarah Lawrence College into the Larry Ray Cult with Daniel Barban LevinOn January 20th, 2023, Larry Ray was sentenced to 60 years in prison for racketeering conspiracy, violent crime in aid of racketeering, extortion, sex trafficking, forced labor, tax evasion, and money laundering offenses. Daniel Barban Levin escaped the cult and used writing to process his mind control experience. He also wanted to do something to help his friends, who were still psychologically imprisoned. His memoir, Slonim Woods 9, published in 2021, was a revealing and poetic description of his time in a mind control cult. Hulu releases its docuseries this week–Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence. Learn more abo...2023-02-061h 05Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Perils of Extreme Religious Liberty and Protecting Children with Marci HamiltonDid you know that current American law looks at children as property? Even though we know corporal punishment has been banned by most civilized countries, it is legal in the USA due to the religious lobby. Hamilton is a law professor as well as the Founder and CEO of CHILD USA, www.childusa.org, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit academic think tank dedicated to interdisciplinary, evidence-based research to improve laws and public policy to end child abuse and neglect. She is the author of God vs. the Gavel: The Perils of Extreme Religious Liberty, (2009, Cambridge University Press), Justice Denied: What America...2023-01-3059 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanTraining Therapists to Work in Post-Cult Counseling with Dr. Gillie JenkinsonHerself a former cult member and accredited psychotherapist in the U.K., is an international speaker, director of Hope Valley Counselling and author of the new book, Walking Free from the Trauma of Coercive, Cultic, and Spiritual Abuse: A Workbook for Recovery and Growth. Most people require specialized counseling to recover from an experience of cult indoctrination. But many therapists that work with former members are not trained to help with the after-effects of mind control and cult-related problems, such as the formation of a pseudo “cult identity.” Inspired by her experience of encountering unethical and inexperienced therapists, Gillie crea...2023-01-2359 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanCured: Strengthen Your Immune System and Heal Your Life with Jeffrey Rediger, MDDr. Rediger, MD, MDiv, is a board-certified psychiatrist, best-selling author, and popular speaker. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary. He is on the faculty at Harvard Medical School and has served as Medical Director of McLean SE Adult psychiatry and Community Affairs at McLean Hospital for many years. He has spent years researching cases of what doctors call “spontaneous remission” and what others call “miracles.” We discuss the terribly broken medical care system that fails to see a whole person rather than a set of symptoms or diseases in “silos.” He talks about specific scientifical...2023-01-161h 07Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanUnveiled: Discovering the Truth Behind Islamic Extremism with Yasmine MohammedYasmine was raised in an extreme Islamic household and was married to a man who turned out to be an Al-Qaeda terrorist. She is a tireless human rights campaigner advocating for the rights of women living within Muslim-majority countries as well as those who struggled under religious fundamentalism in general. She is the founder of Free Hearts Free Minds, an organization providing mental health support for members of the LGBTQ+ community and free thinkers living within Muslim-majority countries where both “crimes” can be punished by execution. I wish to support women’s equal rights everywhere, and please join me for a...2023-01-091h 08Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanFormer Trump Attorney Michael Cohen on His Experience in The Cult of TrumpThe host of the Mea Culpa podcast and author of the #1 best-selling book, Disloyal: A Memoir, and now with his latest book Revenge: How Donald Trump Weaponized the Department of Justice Against His Critics. So much has happened that is timely with the 2nd anniversary of the Jan 6th violent attempted coup. His latest book is an indictment of Trump weaponizing the Department of Justice, headed by AG Bill Barr. Putting Cohen in jail- solitary confinement for 51 days! Learn more about this horrendous abuse of power. This is a great interview!Learn more about Steven Hassan and F...2023-01-021h 10Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanGrowing Up in Scientology and the Aftermath Foundation with Aaron Smith-LevinBeing raised in an authoritarian cult and exiting is usually a very difficult and traumatic experience. Many people have learned about the cult of Hubbard, Scientology, and Aaron Smith-Levin signed a billion-year commitment when he entered the SeaOrg- the elite troops of the cult. There have been many books, podcasts, and documentaries about Scientology. Aaron started a very successful YouTube Channel Growing up in Scientology and is the vice president of the Aftermath Foundation, a non-profit aimed at helping former members to recover. Three former Sea Org members who were inducted as children are currently suing the cult and...2022-12-261h 15Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanHelping to counsel people in the UK with Cult Issues with Christian SzurkoMy interview with the founder of the non-profit DialogCentre UK, Christian Szurko, shares his decades of experience helping people involved with abusive, controlling cults and relationships since 1973. A former member of Yogananda (Autobiography of a Yogi), Christian was mentored by a pastoral counselor, moved to England, and has been actively helping people reclaim their personal power and reenter society. This is a fascinating interview, and we cover many essential topics, from the need to focus more on helping people recover from authoritarian cults and not just “get them out.” We discuss the need for active listening, developing accurate mental maps...2022-12-191h 14Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanBELIEVING THE IRRATIONAL AND DISPELLING IT – A HOW TO with Michael ShermerA very important conversation with one of the top skeptics in the world about his new, excellent book, Conspiracy: Why the Rational Believe the Irrational. Dr. Shermer is the Founding Publisher of Skeptic magazine, the host of the podcast The Michael Shermer Show, and a Presidential Fellow at Chapman University, where he teaches Skepticism 101. For 18 years, he has been a monthly columnist for Scientific American. In this interview, you will learn about the biology that motivates people to believe in conspiracy theories as well as understand there are, in fact, actual conspiracies. The important thing is understanding what one...2022-12-121h 08Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanFrom Growing Up in the Jehovah’s Witnesses to Counseling People Who Wish to Exit it with Frances PetersCome join me in this fascinating interview with Frances Peters who lives in the Netherlands and has a coaching and counseling practice serving people who are former members of a large variety of authoritarian cults, including the one she was raised in. The journey out of a cult for someone raised in it differs from working with someone recruited later in life. This conversation will be of interest to all, but especially to second-generation cult members as well as counselors, spouses, and anyone interested in different approaches to helping. Working with former members is a unique specialization and Frances...2022-12-051h 18Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanFormer Cult of Trump member and Congressman Joe Walsh on the Political Scene in the United StatesFormer Republican congressman and Tea Party advocate, Joe Walsh discusses his realizations about Trump and how he has been dissed by the MAGA powers in the GOP. He started “Center Street Pac” to help elect any politician devoted to putting country over party, in service of freedom. Joe has a podcast of his own, “White Flag with Joe Walsh” where he talks with progressives as well as GOD folks willing to discuss what has happened to the United States. Joe and I discuss Twitter, free speech, and libertarianism, and agree we all need to lower the temperature and get more peo...2022-11-2858 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanHow Evangelical Christianity morphed into a Political Machine, Became Anti-Abortion, and into NAR with Frank SchaefferFor anyone with a background in Evangelical Christianity, Francis Schaeffer is regarded as royalty. He has written books that sold many millions of copies and two films were made by his namesake son to promote them. This interview is one of the most important ones for people to listen to if they really wish to understand what has happened to Christianity in America. Frank Schaeffer, a New York Times best-selling author, and host of the podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, was homeschooled and raised in an evangelical/fundamentalist home and bears firsthand testimony of how his father’s life...2022-11-211h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Traumatizing Narcissist's Relational System, with Daniel Shaw LCSWDaniel Shaw is a psychotherapist in New York City, and author of 2 books on the subject of traumatic narcissism. He left the Siddha Yoga cult in 1994, after more than a decade of living and working for it. In this interview we discuss his concept of the relational system of the traumatizing narcissist, that explains the psychology of cult leaders and abusers and helps survivors of narcissistic abuse in their recovery. There are many “experts” on narcissist abuse but this framework is uniquely helpful.Learn more about Steven Hassan and Freedom of Mind Resource Center. Visit freedomofmind.com...2022-11-141h 06Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanHumiliation, Media Shaming, Trauma, and work with the FLDS with Dr. Christine MarieMedia shaming has been around for decades. Now, we live with the Internet and 24/7 information cycles. Sensationalism and misinformation can create harmful media which is accessible forever. The adverse effects on everyday people’s lives are monumental and sometimes deadly. Dr. Christine Marie specializes in media psychology, a field that is becoming more important than ever, given the proliferation of media sources. Media influence can lead to shame, humiliation, and complex PTSD. Join us in this important interview. Then we turn to her work with the nonprofit Voices For Dignity. A survivor and an academic, she and her husband li...2022-11-071h 06Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanREWIRED: Protecting Your Brain in the Digital Age with Carl D. Marci, M.D.Rewired is one of the most important new books I have read that has yet to get significant media attention. Dr. Marci is a Harvard psychiatrist and social neuroscientist who uses incontrovertible scientific evidence in this remarkable and sobering book. He has a chapter titled ‘The Power of the Prefrontal Cortex’ that describes it as the ‘most highly evolved part of the modern human brain.’ It performs executive functions and is an ‘orchestral conductor of neuronal symphonies’ in our brain. One of the central premises of this book is that our obsession with social media and cell phones is rewiring our...2022-10-3157 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Game is Up: Disillusioned Trump Voters Tell Their StoriesPlease listen to this interview with two-time Emmy award-winning filmmaker Melissa Jo Peltier about this documentary. Former tea party congressman Joe Walsh, David Weissman, Batya Goldberg, and other former voters for Trump share their realizations about how destructive Trump has been for America. Several experts were interviewed for this project, including myself, talking about my book, The Cult of Trump. Let’s amplify the voices of former believers in Trump! Let’s expand the exit ramp to using conscience and employing American values. Let’s not shame or denigrate folks for being sucked into the Republican machine. Help us end th...2022-10-241h 00Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanBeware the Metaverse: Dr. Rand Waltzman discusses Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the InternetPlease join me in a profound but disturbingly honest conversation with one of the world’s true experts in Artificial Intelligence. The Information Professionals Association (IPA) co-founder, Dr. Rand Waltzman, has over 40 years of experience performing and managing research in AI applied to domains including social media and cognitive security in the information environment. His distinguished career includes being the former Deputy Chief Technology Officer and Senior Information Scientist at the Rand Corporation. His perspective is dire. He says that without dramatic intervention into data privacy and technology regulations worldwide, those with power will be able to conduct massive mi...2022-10-171h 09Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanA BILLION YEARS: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientology with Mike RinderMike Rinder escaped his 46 years of Scientology, having achieved the #3 spot of power and head of their intelligence unit OSA. His new book helps pull back the curtain on many aspects of this notorious authoritarian cult. He starred with Leah Remini on Scientology and the Aftermath, and now their podcast Fair Game. In this special interview, I cover some essential details that folks (especially cult watchers) will wish to know. For example, he answers my specific questions that help connect the dots with the criminal activity and mind control that Hubbard enshrined into cult doctrine. In this age of...2022-10-101h 08Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanWake Up Grateful: The Transformative Practice of Taking Nothing for Granted with Kristi NelsonJoin me in a thoroughly uplifting episode with author Kristi Nelson. Kristi is a very special person, bright, educated, accomplished in the world of non-profit leadership. She is a wounded healer, having survived a terminal diagnosis of stage 4 cancer and lived. I rarely encounter a book where I agree with everything in it. I feel energized by practicing this simple but difficult practice. I tend to think and worry too much in a way that is draining. By reminding yourself to put your attention on all the good things, all the body parts that you still have and are...2022-10-0356 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanRabbi Natan Margalit Science and Torah: Ancient Wisdom for Healing the EarthRabbi Natan Margalit, the author of the newly released book, The Pearl and the Flame, has an answer. The problem, he believes, is not understanding the connectedness of all things—people, plants, animals, and the natural world. His solution is to integrate our vast and valuable scientific knowledge about complex systems with the ancient wisdom of the Torah (the Hebrew Bible). In this fascinating conversation, Natan shares his spiritual journey, which eventually led him to become a rabbi, educator, and environmental activist. We cover many topics, sharing hopeful ways to move forward in our highly fragmented and polarized times. 2022-09-261h 07Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanGrowing up in a Sex Cult with former Army Captain Daniella Mestyanek YoungDaniella Mestyanek Young is a strong, courageous woman who has written the memoir, Uncultured. This fascinating interview will be of interest to anyone born into an authoritarian cult, to women everywhere, to anyone who served in the military as well as anyone who wants to read about the incredible journey. Daniella was trained to obey orders in a cult that regularly raped children, endured hours of corporal punishment, ran away at age 15, became valedictorian, became an Army intelligence captain, and is working towards a Masters degree in Organizational Development and Change at Harvard.Learn more about Steven...2022-09-1958 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanExposing Cult Propagandists with Jeffrey AugustineJeffrey Augustine is an investigative journalist whose blog, The Scientology Money Project, covers Scientology's money, crimes, lies, and legal matters. Augustine covers Scientology in real time and offers in-depth analysis, legal and governmental documents, and court cases. Augustine reports on the pervasive culture of white-collar criminality and financial scams within Scientology perpetrated by its members, in addition to Scientology's cover-ups or rapes and child molestation. He is a former Pentecostal who has researched Massimo Introvigne, head of Cesnur.org, and outs him as a cult propagandist along with a host of other sociologists who say brainwashing does not exist...2022-09-121h 16Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanInvisible Storm: A Soldier’s Memoir of Politics and PTSD with Jason KanderJason Kander’s new book significantly contributes to mental health, particularly to military folks walking around with undiagnosed PTSD. He is a former Army Captain and rising political star–yes, he was invited to the White House to meet with President Obama, who encouraged him to run for President. Jason realized that he had been suffering from classic PTSD symptoms for ten years and needed to stop everything and get help. He stepped out of political life, is a devoted husband and father, and has been working to help veterans. Jason’s previous best-selling book was Outside the Wire. He hos...2022-09-0559 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanIra Chaleff Discusses the Importance of Courageous Followership and Intelligent DisobedienceNamed one of the “100 best minds on leadership” by Leadership Excellence magazine, Ira Chaleff has a lot of positive, constructive things to guide people. I loved his books, Intelligent Disobedience: Doing Right When What You’re Told To Do Is Wrong, and The Courageous Follower: Standing Up To and For Our Leaders. At this time in world history, Chaleff has a lot of important wisdom to help people realign with their values and empower them to act with integrity. His program to teach children to Think, Blink, Choice, and Voice will help empower children to speak up if they are be...2022-08-291h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe New Apostolic Reformation is facing rifts from Trump prophecies - Fred Clarkson and André GagnéThere are an estimated 40 million Americans and approximately 650 million people worldwide involved with Pentecostal/ Charismatic groups led by a prophet or apostle who claims to get direct revelations from God. Most of these fulfill the BITE model of Authoritarian Control criteria. Some of these folks see themselves as “spiritual warriors” and are convinced other people who wish to have human rights (women who wish to have control of their bodies, gay marriage, and reject theocracy) are satanic/ demonic forces. Dr. André Gagné, professor in theological studies at Concordia University (Montréal) teams up for this interview with Frederick Clarkson, Senior...2022-08-221h 02Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanNetflix’s “Bad Vegan” shows how Celebrity Restaurateur, Sarma Melngailis was Hypnotized by a PredatorA frank discussion on the subject of the Netflix docu-series Bad Vegan. One-on-one coercive control is what this story was about! Sarma co-founded Pure Food and Wine restaurant in NYC and founded the raw vegan brand, One Lucky Duck. The series failed utterly by not explaining how predators operate, or how hypnosis can be used to elicit obedience and induce amnesia. In this case, large sums were drained from Sarma's business, and both she and her predator were jailed at Rikers Island, prosecuted as if both had criminal intent. This episode is for anyone wishing to understand how an...2022-08-151h 17Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanAlzheimer's, Dementia and on being wise consumers: A conversation with Germaine Odenheimer, M.D.Germaine is a Geriatric Neurologist, Professor Emeritus at OU College of Medicine. Her career has been devoted to people with dementia and their caregiver. She became a caregiver for her mother with dementia. She was recruited to Oklahoma University College of Medicine to develop a geriatric curriculum for medical students and focused her teaching on recognizing and caring for people with cognitive impairments. She required all her medical students to participate in Alzheimer's support groups. As the population ages in America, more and more people are suffering from severe cognitive impairments. While there is a great deal of research, D...2022-08-0859 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanAn Expert on Addiction and critic of 12 Step Programs: A conversation with Lance Dodes MDLance Dodes, M.D. is a retired assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He has been the Director of the substance abuse treatment unit of Harvard’s McLean Hospital, Director of the Alcoholism Treatment Unit at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital (now part of Massachusetts General Hospital), and Director of the Boston Center for Problem Gambling. He is the author or co-author of many journal articles and book chapters about the psychology of addiction and the author of three books: The Heart of Addiction (HarperCollins, 2002), Breaking Addiction: A 7-Step Handbook for Ending Any Addiction (HarperCollins, 2011), and The Sober Tr...2022-08-011h 06Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Moon Cult: an interview with former top American leader Allen Tate WoodIn the wake of the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe by the assassin Tetsuya Yamagami, we are posting this interview. The killer was reportedly angered because of Abe’s family’s support of the Unification Church - aka Moon organization. Wood was a major expert testifying to courts including before the Supreme Court. Allen Tate Wood a former American Leader of the group talks with Steven Hassan in this must-watch interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-07-111h 00Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe NXIVM cult with whistleblowers Sarah Edmondson and Anthony “Nippy” AmesSarah Edmondson and Anthony “Nippy” Ames are former members of the NXIVM cult but today are some of the most visible whistleblowers of the cult. They host the popular podcast “A Little Bit Culty,” and Sarah is the author of “Scarred: The True Story of How I Escaped NXIVM, the Cult That Bound My Life.” In this wide-ranging conversation, we talk about NXIVM and the attributes we also find in other cults. We talk about human trafficking (what NXIVM cult leader Keith Raniere was convicted of) and how intelligent, educated people can fall victim to a cult leader.Learn more...2022-05-1658 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe roots of racism in the Christian Right with John CollinsJohn Collins grew up as “royalty” in the William Branham “Message” cult. He has worked tirelessly to understand and reveal its true history with the KKK and its influence on modern Pentecostalism today. He has authored two books and built an incredible website to expose the facts of this criminal, white supremacist, misogynistic cult. John helps us realize an essential part of American authoritarianism which to this day has an international following. By freeing himself from the mental and emotional damage he suffered as a child growing up in that atmosphere, he can help millions realize they were following a false...2022-04-251h 02Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanHow we Fight Human Trafficking With Paul ChangPaul Chang serves as a Regional Anti-Human Trafficking Coordinator at the U.S. Department of Labor – Wage and Hour Division. In his 25+ years with the agency, Paul worked on some of the most notorious cases as an investigator and Assistant District Director. He’s developed numerous training materials and programs that also utilize my BITE Model and Influence Continuum. He has also been on a special assignment to the White House Initiative on Asian Americans Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI) since 2013 where he currently serves as the National Co-Chair of the Regional Network.Lear...2022-04-181h 03Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanGinni Thomas’s Cultic PastA tweet thread I wrote about Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas’s wife Ginni went VIRAL two days ago. I shared a video from 1986 few people have seen from a conference for former cult members. Ginni Thomas spoke in this video about her past experience in a cult. Ginni later went on to do a great deal of anti-cult work, but as is the case with so many former members, she joined a new authoritarian cult (The Cult of Trump). Steve is interviewed by Freedom of Mind’s own Dan McCollister about the issues surrounding Ginni Thomas.Lear...2022-04-0254 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanMental Health and Forensics: Psychiatry and the Law with Dr. Thomas GutheilDr. Thomas Gutheil is an internationally known forensic psychiatrist and author of over 300 publications. He is a Professor of Psychiatry and co-founder of the Program in Psychiatry and the Law (PIPATL) associated with Harvard Medical School. In this interview, we talk about how he got interested in psychiatry, what makes a mentoring relationship ethical and successful, and most importantly, his help in helping to establish a clear understanding of undue influence which can be used to promote justice.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr...2022-03-2147 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanChristian Dominionism with Frederick ClarksonFrederick Clarkson is one of the foremost experts on Christian Dominionism in the United States (“Dominionism” is the theocratic idea that Christians are called by God to exercise dominion over every aspect of society by taking control of political and cultural institutions). Fred is a journalist and the author of the classic "Eternal Hostility: The Struggle Between Theocracy and Democracy." He broke the story of Project Blitz, a coalition of conservative Christian groups working to enact Dominionist legislation in state & local legislatures across the U.S., and helped set up BlitzWatch.org to monitor, track, and defeat attempts by Chri...2022-03-141h 08Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanTerrorism expert Anne Speckhard on ISIS and White SupremacyAnne Speckhard is an Adjunct Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Georgetown University's Medical School in Washington D.C. Her research focuses on developing counter-terrorism initiatives and understanding the motivations of terrorists. In this talk, we discuss what ISIS members and white supremacists have in common and how effective counterterrorism efforts use psychology.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr. Hassan on Twitter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-03-0750 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanUsing Social Psychology to teach heroism with Matthew WinklerMatthew Winkler Is the program manager for the Heroic Imagination Project. Founded by seminal social psychologist Philip Zimbardo (Stanford Prison Experiment), The Heroic Imagination Project provides training for individuals and groups using groundbreaking scientific research and experiential training workshops.Matthew Winkler has taught and mentored teenagers at middle schools, high schools, and colleges in New York, New England, China, and Japan. His viral TED-Ed video “What Makes a Hero,” snowballed into his first book “Mentoring Teenage Heroes: The Hero’s Journey of Adolescence.”Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his websit...2022-02-2856 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanConspiracy Theories and how to talk to people who’ve become lost in them with debunker Mick WestMick West is a science writer, skeptical investigator, and creator of the websites Contrail Science and Metabunk. West investigates and debunks pseudoscientific claims and conspiracy theories such as chemtrails and UFO’s. To help people out of these dead ends, he advocates a kind, patient approach similar to my Strategic Interactive Approach. His first book is Escaping the Rabbit Hole: How to Debunk Conspiracy Theories Using Facts, Logic, and Respect.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr. Hassan on Twitter here. ...2022-02-211h 04Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Jehovah's Witnesses Cult with Mark and Kimberly O'DonnellMark and Kimberly O'Donnell are former Jehovah's Witnesses who’ve become some of the loudest whistleblowers of the cult. They were prominently featured in the Vice Documentary “The Crusaders,” highlighting rampant child sexual abuse in the cult. They continue to speak out today and work with former members working to recover from undue influence.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr. Hassan on Twitter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-02-1457 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanPositively influencing your kids with parenting expert Molly Brown KochMolly Brown Koch has been leading parenting workshops for over 60 years. She is the author of the award-winning book, “27 Secrets to Raising Amazing Children.” When I was about to become a parent, I read this book and have been relying on its wisdom for many years. At 94 years young, Koch has been a respected voice on ethical parenting for decades. In this conversation, she highlights her main ideas about parenting and shares interesting stories from her past. I have been recommending this book to second-generation former cult members in my work. I do this because when they read it, they...2022-02-021h 00Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanOpening Minds, and The Cult of Scientology with leading authority Jon AtackJon Atack is generally acknowledged as the world's leading authority on the cult of Scientology. He spent nine years in the cult, training as an 'auditor' and becoming 'OT V.’ He’s the author of the definitive biography of Ron Hubbard, “Let’s Sell These People a Piece of Blue Sky.” His new book "Opening Minds," is a must-read that helps explain undue influence and in particular, how to protect yourself from predators.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr. Hassan on Twitter here. ...2022-01-311h 04Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve Hassan“The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump” and the censorship of mental health experts in the media with Dr. Bandy X. LeeDr. Bandy Lee is a forensic psychiatrist and a renowned expert on violence. Dr. Lee taught at Yale and Yale Law School from 2003-2020 and became known to the public by leading a group of mental health experts in breaking the silence about the dangerous mental impairments of Donald Trump. She edited the book “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump,” with 37 experts weighing in on their concerns about Trump. She’s been heavily censored in the media due to the American Psychiatric Association citing “The Goldwater Rule”, but they are a private institution and have power only over their members. D...2022-01-2646 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe cult of Mormonism with excommunicated whistleblower Dr. John DehlinJohn Dehlin is a 6th generation member of the Church of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). He is an American psychologist, podcast host, and excommunicated member of the Mormon church. He was excommunicated by the church for speaking out in support of gay rights. Dehlin is the host of the popular “Mormon Stories” podcast, a podcast he created in 2005.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr. Hassan on Twitter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-01-241h 11Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe ethical side of the influence continuum! How to harness positive influence in your life and the life of others with Dr. Laurence Sugarman.In this episode, Steve shares a paradigm shift taking place in mind-body medicine. He talks with pediatrician and Research Professor and Director of the Center for Applied Psychophysiology and Self-regulation (CAPS) at the Rochester Institute of Technology, Laurence Sugarman M.D. Sugarman talks about a new conceptualization of mind-body healing and hypnotic approaches one can use to improve their own life or the life of others. He proposes a new model of healthcare that differs greatly from our disease-based system.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.2022-01-1958 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanHow we got here; the history of right-wing extremism and the groups and themes still with us today with Dave TroyDave Troy is a disinformation researcher, tech-entrepreneur, TEDxMidAtlantic curator, and data visualization expert. In this episode, he takes us on a journey through American history-starting in the Great Depression and spanning all the way to today. We learn how extremist groups like the John Birch Society have pushed for very specific monetary policy in America and how this intersects with oil company money and the current cryptocurrency movement.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr. Hassan on Twitter here. Learn...2022-01-171h 01Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanDr. Robert Jay Lifton on current affairs and the importance of survivors telling their storiesOn today’s episode, Dr. Hassan interviews Dr. Robert Jay Lifton, author of the seminal 1961 book, “Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism” about Chinese brainwashing programs under Mao. Dr. Lifton, now 95 years old, mentored Hassan starting in 1976 and it was his 8 criteria of thought reform or mind control that was the foundation for all subsequent work.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr. Hassan on Twitter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-01-1237 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanIntroduction to the Influence ContinuumIn this episode, Dr. Steven Hassan will introduce himself and will bring you up to speed on what brought him to study, write, and help people out of destructive mind-control cults for the last 45 years. While there are many podcasts by former members, Hassan is unique as a cult survivor, and mental health expert, with 45 years of field experience. He’ll preview what the podcast will be about and guests he will interview.Learn more about Dr. Steven Hassan's work and find more resources at his website FreedomOfMind.com.Follow Dr. Hassan on...2022-01-1056 minCult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve HassanThe Influence Continuum with Dr. Steven Hassan - TrailerThe Influence Continuum with Dr. Steven Hassan begins Monday, January 10, 2022. New episodes weekly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-01-0700 min