Let's Talk About Sects
Sarah SteelLet's Talk About Sects is an award-winning monthly podcast focusing on a different cult each episode. Sarah takes a storytelling, deep dive approach, looking at the history of a sect's leaders, the recruitment of members, their experiences, psychological aspects, and notable incidents during its existence.
You can support us on Patreon, with a one-off donation, or grab some merch. Sarah Steel's de... more
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 110 | Founded | 9 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | DocumentarySociety & CultureTrue Crime | |||
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Latest Episodes
The sentences just came down for OneTaste’s founder Nicole Daedone and her second-in-command Rachel Cherwitz – if you're unfamiliar with OneTaste you can listen to Let's Talk About Sects' deep dive in November 2020. From that episode, you may remembe... more
Expanse is the ABC’s internationally award-winning podcast exploring big stories from across Australia, and it’s sixth season sees host Dominique Bayens investigate the unsettling circumstances surrounding the 2007 disappearance of four people from t... more
Harry Robert Bruner was brought into Sri Chinmoy as a child, joining the organisation run by Chinmoy Kumar Ghose at the age of 12. Chinmoy claimed he lifted weights totalling 7063¾ pounds (or over 3,200kg) with one arm on 30 January 1987. He also fac... more
Allison after NXIVM tells the story of Allison Mack: former Smallville actress, high-ranking NXIVM member, and convicted felon. With exclusive access following her release from prison, the series traces her astonishing path from Smallville fame to NX... more
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Reviews
- Excellent every episode
Sarah is a wonderful host and interviewer. Highly recommend for anyone interested in understanding cults.
Apple Podcasts5CaraPietrina
United States5 months ago - Must listen
This podcast should be compulsory listening in all schools. Excellent research and beautifully presented.
Apple Podcasts5thisislridiculous
Australia5 months ago - Binge Listening
I got into this podcast through a recommendation on the Twelve Tribes episode. Had a couple of brushes with them in the early 2000s. Now binge listening from the beginning. Love the research and non-sensational, thoughtful presentation!
Apple Podcasts5All good now, you?Australia7 months ago - Meaningful Interviews
Excellent questions and great guests. Thanks Sarah. Always love your shows!
Apple Podcasts5Virginia horsesUnited States7 months ago - Ethical and Thorough Cult Investigation
I’ve read and listened to a lot about cults but Let’s Talk About Sects is simply the best out there. The investigations are thorough, well researched and, importantly, ethically produced. It’s not flashy, there isn’t dramatic music accompanying the most sordid details. However, it’s still incredibly engaging without feeling exploitative. I love that we get to hear from a lot of survivors, and it really feels like Sarah gives them a space to open up and tell their story, without it feeling like s... more
Apple Podcasts5Bethsy06United States8 months ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #222 | Australia/True Crime |
Apple Podcasts | #80 |  New Zealand/True Crime |
Apple Podcasts | #177 |  Spain/True Crime |
Apple Podcasts | #178 |  Sweden/True Crime |
Apple Podcasts | #249 |  Russia/True Crime |
Talking Points
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Frequently Asked Questions About Let's Talk About Sects
What is Let's Talk About Sects about and what kind of topics does it cover?
A monthly, in-depth exploration of cults and sects, blending historical context, leader dynamics, recruitment tactics, and survivor stories with careful, ethical storytelling. Episodes highlight investigative journalism, personal narratives, and expert analysis to unpack coercive control, manipulation, and the wider social impact of high-control groups. Notable strengths include long-form interviews, rigorous research, and a respectful approach to participants that appeals to listeners who want thoughtful, nuanced insights rather than sensationalism. The show often pairs firsthand testimonies with scholarly or professional context, making it a strong fit for audiences interested in psychology, sociology, and advocacy work around cult-relate... more
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How many listeners does Let's Talk About Sects get?
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Which podcasts are similar to Let's Talk About Sects?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Let's Talk About Sects:
1. Was I In A Cult?
2. A Little Bit Culty
3. Trust Me: Cults, Extreme Belief, and Manipulation
4. Cults to Consciousness
5. What It Was Like
How many episodes of Let's Talk About Sects are there?
Let's Talk About Sects launched 9 years ago and published 110 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact Let's Talk About Sects?
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What guests have appeared on Let's Talk About Sects?
Recent guests on Let's Talk About Sects include:
1. Dominique Bayens
2. Harry Robert Bruner
3. Natalie Robehmed
4. Ellen Huet
5. Danny Rensch
6. Clare Heath-McIvor
7. Liz Cameron
8. Ryan Carey
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.