A Little Bit Culty

Think you might be in a cult? Want to know the signs? Join Sarah Edmondson and Anthony “Nippy” Ames to talk about things that are..a little bit culty. Or in their case: a whole bunch of culty. As whistleblowers documented in the critically-acclaimed HBO series “The Vow,” Sarah and Nippy have a lot to say about their experience, and burning questions to ask people with similar stories. They’re here to help people understand, heal from, and avoid abusive situations one little red flag at a time. Listen in as they share their stories, have frank and unscripted conversations with other survivors and cult experts, and do a deep dive on how devotion can turn to dysfunction.

Memoir of Madness in a Cult of One - Sarma Melngailis Spills All the Tea on Healing (Part 1) 07/07/2025

Bonus Drop: Dr. Laura Richards & Lisa Bilyeu on Cults, Control & Dirty Diddy Secrets 07/03/2025

Bonus Drop: Dr. Laura Richards & Lisa Bilyeu on Cults, Control & Dirty Diddy Secrets This week, we’re diving deep into the twisted world of coercive control with the one and only Dr. Laura Richards – renowned criminal behavioral analyst, podcaster, and global expert on stalking, coercive control, and violent crime. We’re also joined by Lisa Bilyeu, host of Women of Impact and queen of calling out BS wherever it lurks. Dr. Laura breaks down how cult leaders, predators, and power-hungry narcissists (looking at you, Sean Combs) use tactics straight out of the coercive control playbook to groom, manipulate, and dominate victims. We’re talking about how the “nice guy” veneer slowly erodes, why women like Christina Corom end up as right-hand enforcers, and why media still struggles to call out abusive power structures for what they are. We also get into: Why grooming is always strategic, never accidental The eerie parallels between Keith Raniere, Sean Combs, and other culty figures The hidden dangers of female lieutenants like Nancy Salzman, Ghislaine Maxwell, and Christina Coram How to spot coercive control before it becomes your entire world It’s a masterclass in manipulation, and a reminder that cult tactics aren’t confined to creepy compounds in Upstate New York. They’re happening in boardrooms, bedrooms, and billionaire circles everywhere. Catch more of Dr. Laura Richards on the Crime Analyst Podcast or Crime Analyst Squad Or on Instagram @laurarichards999 and @crimeanalyst For more information and resources, the following sites can be accessed: And don’t miss Lisa Bilyeu’s Women of Impact for your weekly dose of female empowerment. After this one, you’ll never hear “It’s All About the Benjamins” the same way. Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/37267875

My Name Was Mushroom: Wendy Baker’s Journey Beyond the Source Family Cult 06/30/2025

My Name Was Mushroom: Wendy Baker’s Journey Beyond the Source Family Cult Long before kale smoothies went mainstream, The Source Family was seducing Hollywood with vegan food, free love, and a guru who called himself Father Yod. This wasn’t just LA’s first vegan restaurant – it was a commune where long-haired devotees in white robes took ice-cold showers at dawn, meditated for hours, and followed strict spiritual rules under their bearded leader. Celebrities like John Lennon and Cher might have stopped by for a meal, but for many teen girls – often runaways – this place became home, for better or worse. Wendy Baker was one of those girls. At 14, she left a traumatic childhood behind for promises of love and enlightenment. Renamed Mushroom, she was swept into a life of chanting, raw vegan meals, and devotion to Father Yod. By sixteen, she had her first child; by nineteen, she was ready to escape. In this episode, Wendy shares what life was really like in the Source Family – from malnutrition and sleep deprivation to the ego-shaming that kept members silent. She talks about her journey out, her marriage to Bart, Father Yod’s son, and how writing her memoir, My Name Was Mushroom, helped her heal. For more on Wendy’s journey, check out and memoir My Name Was Mushroom. Trigger warning: This episode discusses childhood trauma, underage relationships, and cult manipulation. Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/37195510

Mindf*ck 102: MK Ultra, Crypto Cults & Modern Brainwashing with Rebecca Lemov (Part 2) 06/26/2025

Mindf*ck 102: MK Ultra, Crypto Cults & Modern Brainwashing with Rebecca Lemov (Part 2) This week, we’re back with Harvard professor and author Rebecca Lemov to finish what we started: unraveling the tangled web of brainwashing…past, present, and disturbingly future-facing. In Part 2, we go deeper into the CIA’s infamous MK Ultra program and its many (many) spin-offs, asking what really went down with Charles Manson, Jack Ruby, and cult “consultant” Louis Jolyon West. From LSD to hypnosis to rebranding your science after burning the files, the government’s experiments in mind control were both extreme and incredibly hush-hush. We also explore how classic brainwashing tactics, like Milieu Control and loaded language, haven’t gone away; they’ve just been re-skinned for the algorithm era. Think social media rabbit holes, crypto trading cults, and belief systems that sound more like start-up pitches than spiritual awakenings. Plus, we talk trauma: how it’s misunderstood, under-acknowledged, and all too often the gateway drug into high-control groups. If you thought last week was unsettling, buckle up. Find more about Rebecca Lemov and The Instability of Truth at . Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/37157310

Mindf*ck 101: The Science of Brainwashing with Rebecca Lemov (Part 1) 06/23/2025

Mindf*ck 101: The Science of Brainwashing with Rebecca Lemov (Part 1) This week, we’re diving deep into the mind games with Harvard professor and author Rebecca Lemov, because if you’ve ever wondered whether brainwashing is real, the answer is a very unsettling yes. In Part 1 of our convo, we’re cracking open the origins of brainwashing—from communist re-education camps to the electric shock labs of the Milgram experiment—and asking why we still can’t seem to prove it in court. Rebecca's new book, The Instability of Truth, peels back the layers of mind control and thought reform, including what went down with Patty Hearst, why Stockholm Syndrome isn’t what you think it is, and how emotional trauma becomes the secret sauce in cult programming. We also get personal. NXIVM, anyone? The parallels between modern-day cults and Maoist “unity-criticism-unity” techniques are downright eerie... and maybe uncomfortably familiar. From groupthink to gaslighting to re-grounding in a new belief system, this episode might just mess with your head a little (in a good way). Trigger warning: once you see the matrix, it’s hard to unsee it. Find more about Rebecca Lemov and The Instability of Truth at . Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/37108370

Bonus Drop: Orgasm, Obsession & the Cult of OneTaste with Ellen Huet 06/19/2025

Bonus Drop: Orgasm, Obsession & the Cult of OneTaste with Ellen Huet It’s Thursday, and you know what that means: another bonus drop. And this one? It's got orgasms, criminal charges, and courtroom drama, so buckle up. Award-winning journalist Ellen Huet joins us to dish on OneTaste, the orgasmic meditation company that sold itself as a path to sexual liberation but now finds its top brass convicted of forced labor conspiracy. Ellen’s been deep in the trenches covering the scandal and sat through every jaw-dropping moment of the Brooklyn trial. We get into: The culty underbelly of “wellness” culture How orgasmic meditation became a tool for manipulation The courtroom moment Nicole and Rachel were taken into custody And why Ellen’s upcoming book (Empire of Orgasm, out this November) is about to blow the lid off what really went down behind closed doors Plus: we kick around potential names for this Thursday series (got one? DM us), tease what’s coming next on Season 7, and shout out a few upcoming cultiverse guests. Want more from Ellen? You can find her on . . Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/37069460

Ride or Die: Jess Rothschild Spills on SoulCycle's Inner Circle 06/16/2025

Cults Like Us: Jane Borden on LGATs, Humor & Human Potential (Part 2) 06/12/2025

Cults Like Us: Jane Borden on LGATs, Humor & Human Potential (Part 2) We’re back with Part 2 of our conversation with Jane Borden, author of Cults Like Us, where we pick up right where we left off – with the Puritans, of course. Because what’s more American than a doomsday cult in denial? In this half, we explore how their legacy of moral perfectionism, isolationism, and a rigid “us vs. them” worldview continues to shape American institutions, politics, and even pop psychology. Jane takes us through the cult wars of the ’80s and ’90s, the rise of deprogrammers and cult apologists, and the influence of Large Group Awareness Trainings (aka LGATs) like EST and Landmark on today’s self-help landscape. We also dive into the concept of normative dissonance, how political architects like Newt Gingrich exploited division for power, and why bridging social gaps might be the antidote to modern-day culty chaos. Along the way, Jane reminds us why humor can be a powerful tool for understanding even the darkest parts of our culture. If you missed Part 1, hit pause and go back. We promise it’s worth it! And be sure to check out Cults Like Us and more of Jane’s work at . Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Writer: Kristen Reiter Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/36944910

Cults Like Us: Jane Borden on Puritans, Power & American Exceptionalism (Part 1) 06/09/2025

Bonus Drop: Coercive Control in Cults, Patriarchy in Religion & Survivor Wisdom from Tia Levings 06/05/2025

Bonus Drop: Coercive Control in Cults, Patriarchy in Religion & Survivor Wisdom from Tia Levings Welcome to another, unofficially titled, Bonus Drop. These episodes are our way of checking in midweek with extra thoughts, headlines, and conversations that keep the Cultiverse convo going strong. And remember: Patreon subscribers get them a day early because that’s how perks work. In this drop, we’re digging into the overlap between religious trauma, emotional abuse, and the battle for language in the courtroom. Buckle up, because this one covers a lot: Updates on the NXIVM trial and why proving coercive control is still such a legal minefield Bill Maher’s spectacularly bad take on the P. Diddy trial, and our thoughts on victim blaming in the media The political and social reach of religious fundamentalism (spoiler: it’s farther than you think) And a powerful chat with special guest Tia Levings, who joins us to share her journey from Christian fundamentalism survivor to bestselling author and advocate. Her new book The Soul of Healing is a deep dive into recovery from spiritual abuse—and trust us, you’ll want to hear her take. Plus: What happens when survivors take back the narrative, and how to spot the signs of patriarchal programming in your own life. Got thoughts? Send us a voicemail. We’re always listening. Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/36856775

Is It a Spiritual Path or a Cult? Mitch Horowitz Helps Us Break It Down 06/02/2025

Inside the Yellow Deli Cult: Tamara Mathieu on Life in Twelve Tribes (Part 2) 05/29/2025

Inside the Yellow Deli Cult: Tamara Mathieu on Life in Twelve Tribes (Part 1) 05/26/2025

Bonus Drop: Diddy, OneTaste, Weinstein & Listener Confessions 05/22/2025

Bonus Drop: Diddy, OneTaste, Weinstein & Listener Confessions Welcome to the second in our new series of Bonus Thursday Drops—aka, your new favorite excuse to stay in on a weeknight. These episodes are an extra dose of A Little Bit Culty on the main feed every Thursday (Patreon subscribers get them a day early, because perks). Sometimes it’ll be a follow-up to a two-parter. Other times, like today, we’ll check in on the ever-expanding Cultiverse with a mix of headlines, hot takes, and your voicemails. In this episode, we’re serving up a “current-ish” roundup of three high-profile cases making waves right now, drawing parallels to our own culty past: Sean “Diddy” Combs and the disturbing sex trafficking allegations tied to coercion and blackmail OneTaste and its founder’s upcoming trial, with former members speaking out about manipulation and forced labor Harvey Weinstein’s retrial, dragging survivors back into the courtroom and into public scrutiny yet again These stories echo so many of the same power dynamics, abuse tactics, and systemic failures we’ve explored since our NXIVM days. We also answer some big listener questions, from “Would you have stayed in NXIVM if DOS never happened?” to “Did I just get kicked out of a culty improv troupe?” It’s a packed one. It's a timely one. And yes, there’s a man bun running club cult theory in the mix, too. Got thoughts? Keep the voicemails coming. We’re listening. Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Writer: Kristen Reiter Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/36665655

Purity Culture & Sex Shame: Healing with the Sexvangelicals 05/19/2025

Purity Culture & Sex Shame: Healing with the Sexvangelicals Can religion ruin your sex life? This week on A Little Bit Culty, Sarah and Nippy are joined by psychotherapists and certified sex therapists Jeremiah Gibson and Julia Postema—co-hosts of the podcast Sexvangelicals: The Sex Education the Church Didn’t Want You to Have. Together, they explore how religion, especially purity culture and fundamentalist gender roles, can cause lasting damage to relationships and sexual well-being. From internalized shame to rigid scripts about gender and sex, Jeremiah and Julia explain how high-control religious environments affect intimacy long after someone leaves the faith. They also discuss the complexities of deconstructing religion as a couple, the importance of finding shared values, and why therapy can be a vital lifeline through it all. If you’re trying to untangle your beliefs from your bedroom, this conversation offers both validation and guidance. This one’s extra spicy, so listener discretion is advised. Resources mentioned in this episode: When Religion Hurts You by Dr. Laura Anderson . Sex, God, and the Conservative Church by Tina Schermer Sellers . Come As You Are and Come Together by Dr. Emily Nagoski . To hear more from The Sexvangelicals, listen to , check out , and visit . Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Writer: Kristen Reiter Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/36592700

Polygamy, Incest & Reality TV: Amanda Rae Breaks the Silence (Part 2) 05/15/2025

Polygamy, Incest & Reality TV: Amanda Rae Breaks the Silence (Part 2) This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. In Part 2 of our conversation with Amanda Rae, we pick up right where we left off—so if you haven’t heard Part 1 yet, go back and listen first. In this episode, Amanda shares the final breaking point that led her to leave the Kingston Clan, also known as The Order, and the harrowing events surrounding her dramatic escape at just 17. We dive into the emotional toll of indoctrination, the long process of deconstructing belief systems, and what it takes to rebuild an identity after growing up in a high-control religious group. Amanda speaks candidly about self-awareness, survivor’s guilt, family estrangement, and the dark side of reality TV—including her experience on Escaping Polygamy and the exploitation survivors faced behind the scenes. This episode is a raw, deeply moving reminder of the resilience it takes to not only survive—but to speak out. Amanda’s story continues to empower others seeking freedom, healing, and the courage to trust themselves. If you’re in a high-control group and looking for support, offers free assistance to those trying to leave. And if you want to hear more from Amanda, including firsthand accounts from others who’ve left The Order, check out her YouTube channel: . Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions of abuse, spiritual trauma, and emotional manipulation. Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Writer: Kristen Reiter Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/36573990

Polygamy, Incest & Reality TV: Amanda Rae Breaks the Silence (Part 1) 05/12/2025

Goop, Teens, and Wellness Myths with Hayley Krischer 05/05/2025

Hoodwinked by the Algorithm: Dr. Mara Einstein on Cult Tactics in Marketing (Part 2) 04/28/2025

Hoodwinked by the Algorithm: Dr. Mara Einstein on Cult Tactics in Marketing (Part 1) 04/21/2025

Blazing Eyes, Cult Ties, and New Age Vibes with Leah Sottile 04/14/2025

Blazing Eyes, Cult Ties, and New Age Vibes with Leah Sottile This episode is sponsored in part by BetterHelp. New Age isn’t just sage bundles and Instagram affirmations. It can also be a fast track to conspiracy-laced belief systems, grifty gurus, and straight-up cults. In this episode, we’re joined by journalist and podcaster Leah Sottile, whose new book Blazing Eye Sees All takes a sharp look at how New Age spirituality has seeped into American culture, and not always in ways that sparkle. We dig into the strange and disturbing world of Love Has Won, a New Age cult led by self-proclaimed deity Amy Carlson, aka Mother God, who gained infamy for turning blue from drinking colloidal silver. (Yes, really.) Leah breaks down how Carlson built a loyal following online, why her followers believed she channeled Robin Williams, and how the group continued after her death. We also talk about the deeper issues hiding behind the crystal curtains—like why women are often drawn to New Age ideologies, the patriarchal dynamics hidden in so-called matriarchal cults, and the troubling rise of antisemitism in these belief systems. This one is equal parts fascinating and horrifying. Come for the blue lady, stay for the sharp insight. You can find more of Leah and her work on her website , on , and on Instagram Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/36104435

Justified Resentment: When AA Goes Culty with April McLean 04/07/2025

Justified Resentment: When AA Goes Culty with April McLean Alcoholics Anonymous has become a household name. You’ve probably heard of the 12 steps, sponsors, and sobriety chips. At its best, AA can be life-changing. But in some chapters, things can take a darker turn, and when they do, there’s no centralized structure to step in. In this episode, we’re talking with April McLean—a blogger and former member of AA who found herself deep in a high-control group that looked a lot like a cult. April bravely walks us through her journey across three different AA groups, where love bombing, spiritual shaming, and manipulation were passed off as “tough love.” What started as a path to recovery became a minefield of emotional abuse, gaslighting, and coercive control. We explore what happens when sponsors exploit their position of power, how AA’s decentralized model leaves members vulnerable, and why it’s so important to listen to your gut when something feels off, even in a space that’s supposed to help you heal. Trigger warning for addiction and alcohol abuse. Note: We’re not here to bash AA as a whole—it’s helped a lot of people. But as April’s story shows, it’s possible for helpful frameworks to become harmful when the wrong people are in charge. If you’re struggling with substance abuse or any mental health crisis, please call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. And if you're feeling trapped in a culty or coercive environment, visit our resource page for support. To read more of April’s story, check out her blog: Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/36009765

Laura Richards: What Kanye West, Britney Spears, and Blake Lively’s Cases Reveal About Coercive Control (Part 2) 03/31/2025

Laura Richards: What Kanye West, Britney Spears, and Blake Lively’s Cases Reveal About Coercive Control (Part 2) This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. We’re back with behavioral science expert Laura Richards for Part 2 of our deep dive into coercive control—and how it shows up in some of today’s most talked-about celebrity cases. Laura, who spent ten years at New Scotland Yard and helped establish the UK’s coercive control laws, joins us again to unpack the ways power and control are used to manipulate, silence, and harm. This time, we dig into recent headlines involving Kanye West, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, Britney Spears, and the Depp v. Heard trial. Laura explores the public’s reaction to each case, exposing how gender bias and societal conditioning influence who we believe—and who we dismiss. We also discuss how these patterns connect back to cults, Hollywood, and broader systems of manipulation. And since Laura’s work centers around prevention, she asks Sarah and Nippy to reflect on what might have helped them exit NXIVM sooner. This episode includes a trigger warning for sexual assault, murder, and domestic abuse. If you haven’t heard Part 1 yet, be sure to listen to that first. And for more from Laura, check out her podcasts Crime Analyst and Real Crime Profile, or visit . Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/35923995

Laura Richards: What Gabby Petito, “Dirty John,” and Keith Raniere Have in Common 03/24/2025

Laura Richards: What Gabby Petito, “Dirty John,” and Keith Raniere Have in Common This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. What do serial killers, cult leaders, and domestic abusers have in common? According to criminal behavior analyst Laura Richards, quite a lot. In this powerful conversation, Laura explains the concept of coercive control—the psychological abuse tactic often at the core of these crimes—and how it plays out across intimate relationships, cults, and high-profile cases. Laura spent a decade at New Scotland Yard investigating rape, murder, and abduction. She went on to found the Homicide Prevention Unit and Paladin, the world’s first national stalking advocacy service. Her work helped reduce the murder rate in the UK by 58 percent and led to coercive control being criminalized there. Now, she’s fighting for similar legal reforms in the U.S. In Part 1 of our conversation, Laura offers insight into the behaviors and warning signs she sees in the cases of Gabby Petito, Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, “Dirty” John Meehan, British serial killer Peter Sutcliffe, Larry Ray (of the Sarah Lawrence cult case), and NXIVM’s Keith Raniere. This episode gives you a new lens for spotting red flags—and a deeper understanding of how abusers manipulate power and control, so major trigger warning for sexual assault, murder, and domestic violence this week. For more, check out Laura’s podcasts Crime Analyst and Real Crime Profile, find her on IG or visit . Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/35807180

Mind Control in Disguise: Cristina Coello on the Dangers of the Bright Path 03/17/2025

Mind Control in Disguise: Cristina Coello on the Dangers of the Bright Path This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. Ishayas’ Ascension—also known as the Bright Path—is a new-agey meditation movement that promises spiritual enlightenment through “stillness” and expensive courses. But behind the soothing mantras and lofty ideals lurks a leader who demands total submission. Followers are taught that their thoughts, emotions, and even their sense of self aren’t real—only God is. What could possibly go wrong? Our guest today is Cristina Coello, who spent years deep inside the Bright Path under its guru, Maharishi Krishnananda Ishaya. From 2010 to 2021, Cristina was an active teacher and organizer, drawn in by the promise of personal and collective healing. But as she became more involved, she witnessed firsthand the manipulative control tactics, gaslighting, and financial exploitation that kept members devoted. The turning point? Experiencing sexual harassment from the leader himself and the community’s toxic response when she spoke out. In this episode, Cristina shares her journey—from being drawn into the group’s teachings to the painful process of leaving and rebuilding her life. We also discuss the dangers of dismissing mental health in spiritual spaces, the subtle ways cults dismantle personal identity, and the red flags to look out for when seeking a safe community. Find Cristina on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, and TikTok: @iamcristinacoello and her website at You can also sign up for her newsletter to listen to the first episode drop of her new podcast, Unculted: Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/35713100

The Ties That Bind: Ariel Anderssen on Cults to Kink 03/10/2025

The Ties That Bind: Ariel Anderssen on Cults to Kink We’re bringing you a spicy one today on ALBC! Our guest is Ariel Anderssen, a professional BDSM model and sex-positive author. Raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, Ariel grew up in a world where sexuality was strictly controlled, desire was equated with sin, and the end of the world was always just around the corner. But after leaving the faith, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery that led her to embrace kink, submission, and sexual liberation. In this episode, Ariel shares what it was like to grow up in a high-control religious group that dictated every aspect of her life, from what she could wear to how she could think. She opens up about the moment she realized she wasn’t alone in her desires, the misconceptions people have about BDSM, and the surprising parallels between religious fundamentalism and the power dynamics in kink. We also get into feminism, consent, and the ongoing cultural battle over who gets to decide what is and isn’t acceptable when it comes to sex. Today’s episode gets a bit steamy, so consider yourself warned. If you want to learn more about Ariel’s story, check out her memoir . You can also find her on X: @ArielAnderssen or at . Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/35575735

Surviving the IFB: Shelly Snow Pordea on Trauma, Healing, and Fiction 03/03/2025

Surviving the IFB: Shelly Snow Pordea on Trauma, Healing, and Fiction This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. Novelist, screenwriter, and publishing consultant Shelly Snow Pordea grew up in the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church, an insular and oppressive religious environment that shaped her childhood. She survived religious trauma and abuse before finding her path to healing through storytelling. In this episode, ALBC sit down with Shelly to discuss her escape from the IFB, the power of fiction in processing trauma, and how writing her novel, The Cheating Wife, became an act of liberation. Shelly shares the harrowing realities of life in the IFB, the psychological grip of fundamentalist teachings, and the moment she realized she had to leave. She also highlights Living Cult Free, a nonprofit supporting survivors of religious abuse. Plus, we explore the transformative power of self-trust, the language of healing, and the role of creativity in reclaiming personal narratives. Trigger warning: This episode discusses sexual abuse and religious trauma. Find Shelly and her work: For resources and support in surviving religious abuse: Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/35482215

Born and Razed in a Cult: Beth Granger on Surviving Grenville Christian College (Part 2) 02/24/2025

Born and Razed in a Cult: Beth Granger on Surviving Grenville Christian College (Part 2) This is Part 2 of our conversation with Beth Granger, who was born into Grenville Christian College and spent over 20 years trapped within its cult-like control. If you haven’t yet listened to Part 1, we recommend starting there to understand the full context of Beth’s powerful story. In this episode, Beth shares her long road to recovery after leaving Grenville, detailing the emotional toll of the 16-year legal battle that ultimately brought justice to survivors. The landmark ruling validated decades of abuse at Grenville, offering a measure of closure for Beth and others affected. You can read the full 75-page ruling . Beth also opens up about her struggles with PTSD and bulimia, the complexities of medication withdrawal, and the importance of finding the right therapeutic support. Through writing her memoir, , and exploring creative outlets like painting, Beth discovered ways to reclaim her life and identity. To learn more about the dark history of Grenville Christian College, check out The Fifth Estate documentary School of Secrets . For even more from Beth, subscribe to her newsletter here: Trigger warning for child abuse, eating disorders, and mental health struggles. Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/35378700

Born and Razed in a Cult: Beth Granger on Surviving Grenville Christian College (Part 1) 02/17/2025

Born and Razed in a Cult: Beth Granger on Surviving Grenville Christian College (Part 1) This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. Beth Granger was born into a nightmare disguised as an elite Christian boarding school. Raised within the walls of Grenville Christian College, she endured decades of coercion, public shaming, and physical abuse—hidden behind the institution’s polished reputation. As a child of staff members, she was subjected to even harsher discipline, forced to navigate a world where "The Mothers" ruled with an iron grip, friendships were forbidden, and obedience was demanded at all costs. In this first part of our conversation, Beth recounts her early years at Grenville, the cult-like tactics used to control students and staff, and the staggering legal battle that eventually led to the school's closure. The Fifth Estate investigation helped expose the truth, bringing forward allegations of abuse that had been buried for decades. You can watch their full report, School of Secrets, . Beth’s memoir, , reveals the painful truth about growing up in an environment designed to break its members. But as Beth’s story proves, survival is just the beginning. Trigger warning for child abuse, drug abuse, and eating disorders. For even more from Beth, subscribe to her newsletter here: Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. Check out Get poppin’ fresh Support the pod and Cult awareness and recovery Watch Sarah’s CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Audio production: Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin /episode/index/show/ffdcee75-717c-4cfc-b260-a24cd566e41b/id/35284990

Framed: Dr. C on Coercive Control and Family Court Trauma 02/10/2025

A Little Bit Culty

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