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Speaking of Cults

Chris Shelton
Scientology
Coercive Control
Cults
Cult Recovery
David Miscavige
Institute Of Basic Life Principles
UK Protests
Mental Health
Protest Tactics
Fundamentalism
Bill Gothard
Public Awareness
Destructive Cults
Child Abuse
Duggar Family
Psychedelics
Anonymous Movement
Scientology Policies
Religious Trauma
Emotional Needs

A podcast about cults, coercive control and recovery. Formerly called the Sensibly Speaking podcast, in this weekly show host Chris Shelton interviews cult survivors, psychologists and other professionals and specialists about the topics of cult recruitment, retention and recovery. This also includes non-religious cults and extreme political movements including the more divisive elements of MAGA a... more

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes300Founded11 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
Religion & SpiritualityEducation

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Artwork for Speaking of Cults

Latest Episodes

Today I welcome Phil Jones, the Executive Director of the Aftermath Foundation, to discuss its purpose, activities and an upcoming fundraiser being held here in Denver on March 11th. Enjoy!

The Michael J Rinder Aftermath Foundation: theafter... more

YouTube

Today I welcome back Zach Elwood to discuss body language and how it really works to "read" someone, understand their tells and how to accurately predict what they are going to do. It's a bit more complicated than you may have been told. All of this,... more

YouTube

Today I welcome back Dr. Clint Heacock, a former evangelical minister who was born and raised in an evangelical community and has done a great deal of research on what the Christian Nationalist agenda is and how it aligns with Trump, MAGA and Project... more

YouTube

This week I welcome Ben Eisenberg, someone who grew up in and around Landmark and its teachings, which did not help him in his early life. He's spent quite some time sorting this out and shares his journey with us today including a surprising outcome... more

Key Facts

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Number of Listeners
Find out how many people listen to this podcast per episode and each month.

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A Little Bit CultySarah Edmondson & Anthony “Nippy” Ames
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ConspiritualityDerek Beres, Matthew Remski, Julian Walker

Recent Guests

Clint Heacock
Former evangelical minister with insights into American evangelism and its political influence
Dismantling Doctrine Podcast
Episode: Speaking of Cults...What are MAGA Christians Thinking?
Ben Eisenberg
Political consultant and media analyst, former second-generation member of Landmark
Episode: Speaking of Cults...Transforming Landmark with Ben Eisenberg
Cheryl Hope
Cult survivor raised in the Exclusive Brethren
Episode: Speaking of Cults...The Rise and Fall of the Exclusive Brethren
Richard Marsh
Cult survivor raised in the Exclusive Brethren
Episode: Speaking of Cults...The Rise and Fall of the Exclusive Brethren
Mitch Brisker
Ex-Scientologist and filmmaker who worked at high levels within the Church of Scientology
Formerly with the Church of Scientology
Episode: Speaking of Cults...The Mormon/Scientology Connection with Mitch Brisker
Rachel Bernstein
Family therapist, cult recovery therapist, and author
Episode: Speaking of Cults...Restarting After a Cult with Rachel Bernstein
Patty Moher
Scientology veteran who worked within various capacities in the organization and now exposes its practices.
None
Episode: Speaking of Cults...Scientology Inside and Out with Patty Moher
Zach Elwood
Researcher who investigates manipulation tactics in the self-help industry and behavioral analysis.
Episode: Speaking of Cults...Chase Hughes and the NLP Grift with Zach Elwood
Jennie Gage
Lived in the world of MAGA and Mormonism; an advocate against childhood indoctrination and for mental health awareness.
Episode: Speaking of Cults...The Religion/MAGA Connection with Jennie Gage

Host

Chris Shelton
Chris Shelton is the host and creator of the show, known for his empathetic approach to discussing sensitive topics related to cults, manipulation, and recovery. He has extensive experience in engaging with survivors and experts in the field.

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars from 484 ratings
  • Miss Liv M

    Chris you’re amazing thank you for the podcast I’ve learnt so much !!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Miss Liv M
    Australiaa month ago
  • Thoughtful

    Chris is such a kind soul, he exudes his curiosity and determination to get to the bottom of issues. I admire his bravery. If you’re interested in deep conversations about corrupt religions - this is your place!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Kathyinil
    United States3 months ago
  • Long-time fan!

    Always equally well-researched, patient, and entertaining. Truly a pleasant and comforting listen!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ElectricSuzy80
    Finland9 months ago
  • Culty deconstruction tool at its best!

    I love the approach Chris takes to question, explore and bring some good old fashioned critical thinking to the whole field of culty recovery and deconstruction. We get to learn these lessons or relive them … this podcast is a must follow if you are looking to understand the mind set and implications of culty manipulation and control.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    WisdomAnne
    United Statesa year ago
  • Apology

    Long time listener. I really enjoy this thoughtful podcast. It sounds like you owe Aaron an apology. Extra star for you if you do because that would be the classy move.

    Apple Podcasts
    4
    mrkit2u
    United States2 years ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Engaging expert interviews with personal narratives.
Highly informative discussions on cults and recovery.
Commitment to respectful dialogue, even on controversial beliefs.
Growing appreciation for the critical thinking skills fostered through episodes.
Deep analysis on authoritarianism in various contexts.

Top Education Podcasts

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Speaking of Cults...What are MAGA Christians Thinking?
Q: What are the religious narratives that justify the thinking of the evangelical base?
There's a prevalent triumphalism among evangelicals that allows them to flaunt cruelty and justify harsh policies against certain groups.
Speaking of Cults...What are MAGA Christians Thinking?
Q: What do people outside the world of evangelical ministry often misunderstand about how it actually works?
Clint highlights that many outsiders relate evangelical experiences to cult-like conditions without recognizing its diverse expressions.
Speaking of Cults...Transforming Landmark with Ben Eisenberg
Q: Could you describe Landmark and how it was introduced to your life?
Most importantly, it is a for-profit business. It is not a religion. It is not a non-profit organization. Profit is the primary driving motive.
Speaking of Cults...The Rise and Fall of the Exclusive Brethren
Q: What are some other important aspects of the Exclusive Brethren that we haven't covered?
Nearly all of the money that the Brethren's leadership collects from its members is charitable donations, with significant funds accumulating despite asserting financial need for urgent projects.
Speaking of Cults...Restarting After a Cult with Rachel Bernstein
Q: What factors should someone consider before engaging with someone else in this journaling process?
It's important to evaluate if the person is safe and supportive without putting pressure or judgment on your sharing.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Speaking of Cults

What is Speaking of Cults about and what kind of topics does it cover?

Focused on the themes surrounding cults, coercive control, and recovery, the content is enriched with interviews featuring cult survivors, psychologists, and experts who share insights on various aspects of cult dynamics. This podcast goes beyond traditional religious contexts, exploring non-religious and extreme political movements, including the divisive elements of MAGA and social issues from both left and right perspectives. The discussions prioritize respect and understanding, even when addressing controversial beliefs and actions, making it a unique resource for listeners interested in psychological insights and personal stories of recovery from coercive environments.

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How many listeners does Speaking of Cults get?

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Which podcasts are similar to Speaking of Cults?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Speaking of Cults:

1. Cults to Consciousness
2. A Little Bit Culty
3. Was I In A Cult?
4. Trust Me: Cults, Extreme Belief, and Manipulation
5. Conspirituality

How many episodes of Speaking of Cults are there?

Speaking of Cults launched 11 years ago and published 300 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 Speaking of Cults?

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What guests have appeared on Speaking of Cults?

Recent guests on Speaking of Cults include:

1. Clint Heacock
2. Ben Eisenberg
3. Cheryl Hope
4. Richard Marsh
5. Mitch Brisker
6. Rachel Bernstein
7. Patty Moher
8. Zach Elwood

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.

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