352: Escaping & Healing From a Violent Cult with Anna LeBaron & Ruth Wariner
Release Date: 04/22/2025
Voice of Influence
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info_outlineIn this special Remix episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, we revisit and remix episodes 7 and 8 with Anna LeBaron and Ruth Warner, two cousins who escaped violent polygamous cults founded by their fathers. The episode delves into their harrowing experiences, the bond they formed upon discovering their connection, and the healing journey that followed. They discuss their impactful memoirs, The Polygamist Daughter and The Sound of Gravel, and reflect on the challenges and triumphs of telling their stories. Highlighting themes of courage, healing, and finding your voice, this episode aims to inspire and empower listeners to overcome their own struggles.
00:00 Introduction and Special Episode Announcement
00:09 Background of Anna and Ruth's Family
01:11 The Violent History of the Polygamous Cult
02:01 Anna and Ruth's Escape and Reconnection
02:54 The Impact of Their Memoirs
04:57 Revisiting the 2017 Interview
05:35 The 2017 Interview Begins
06:37 Anna and Ruth's Personal Stories
08:20 The Emotional First Meeting
16:35 Healing Through Connection
37:02 Challenges of Sharing Their Stories
45:57 A Desperate Escape
46:47 Crossing the Border
48:26 Life After the Escape
49:05 Family Resistance and Social Media
50:21 Questioning the Past
50:45 Impact of Community and Family Reactions
51:23 Struggles with Self-Worth
52:12 Intuition and Abuse
53:31 Mother's Influence and Writing the Book
54:57 Challenges of Sharing the Story
55:48 Emotional Manipulation and Silence
57:05 Reading the Book to Her Mother
58:43 Conflicting Feelings About Family
01:04:56 Therapy and Healing
01:10:16 Finding Freedom and Voice
01:17:25 Advice for Those Feeling Trapped
01:24:13 The Power of Stories and Books
01:25:25 Mission and Message
01:28:59 Closing Remarks and Contact Information