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.
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Politics, Power & Performative Diversity: Celina Caesar-Chavannes Speaks Out
07/28/2025
Politics, Power & Performative Diversity: Celina Caesar-Chavannes Speaks Out
This week on A Little Bit Culty, we’re diving into the deceptively polite world of Canadian politics—where the optics are polished, but the manipulation runs deep. Our guest is Celina Caesar-Chavannes, a former Member of Parliament and once a rising star in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Party. She served as his parliamentary secretary before leaving in 2019, fed up with the gaslighting, tokenism, and isolation she faced for speaking out. Celina pulls no punches as she breaks down the emotional toll of navigating a system that rewards obedience over honesty, and how Trudeau’s carefully curated image masks something far less inclusive behind the scenes. We also get into the broader culty dynamics that show up in institutions like politics, and what it takes to walk away with your integrity intact. This episode contains discussion of racism, emotional abuse, and political retaliation. Listener discretion is advised. For more on Celina, find her on instagram @iamcelinacc and check our her book 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
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From Devotion to Deconstruction: Laci Bean’s Journey Out (Part 2)
07/24/2025
From Devotion to Deconstruction: Laci Bean’s Journey Out (Part 2)
This week on A Little Bit Culty, we’re back with Laci Bean, host of , for Part 2 of her story—what came after she left the high-control ministry that tried to own her soul. Laci walks us through her deconstruction journey: questioning her faith, setting boundaries with family, and reckoning with the political beliefs she once held. We talk about the pressure to homeschool, the fallout from voting for Trump, and the trauma that opened her eyes. Now a trauma recovery coach, Laci shares how she helps others heal from religious abuse—and how even recovery spaces can start to feel culty if we’re not careful. This one’s about finding your voice, reclaiming your identity, and learning to trust yourself again. 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
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From Devotion to Deconstruction: Laci Bean’s Journey Out (Part 1)
07/21/2025
From Devotion to Deconstruction: Laci Bean’s Journey Out (Part 1)
This week on A Little Bit Culty, we’re getting holy uncomfortable. Our guest is Laci Bean, host of the podcast , for the first of a two-part conversation about her time in a cult-like Christian ministry that pulled her in as a teenager and tried to own her soul. From ages sixteen to nineteen, Laci lived under strict rules that dictated what she could listen to, who she could talk to, and even how she thought about her family. The group promised love and belonging but delivered fear, isolation, and spiritual manipulation, all under the guise of faith. We talk about the emotional hooks that pulled her in, the control tactics that kept her there, and the unexpected kindness that helped her break free. Laci doesn’t hold back as she reflects on what it meant to walk away from her so-called spiritual family—and how leaving God didn’t mean leaving truth. This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt trapped by a belief system that promised love but delivered control. 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
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Bonus Drop: NXIVM, Life Issues & the Sisterhood of Survivors (Part 1)
07/17/2025
Bonus Drop: NXIVM, Life Issues & the Sisterhood of Survivors (Part 1)
We’re dropping in with a bonus two-parter featuring Lauren and Aaliyah—two former NXIVM insiders who became fast friends while navigating the pressure-cooker world of “life issues,” ranking systems, and weaponized empowerment. In part 1, we talk about how it all starts: the acting classes, the “juicy” coaching, the promises of personal growth… and how that slow creep into cult control messes with your sense of self, your relationships, and your gut instincts. We also take a minute to sound off on some recent headlines—because when powerful men keep dodging consequences (hi, Diddy), it’s hard not to draw comparisons to Keith and the crew. And yes, we’re still waiting on that Ghislaine Maxwell client list. This one’s about gaslighting disguised as growth, friendships forged in the fire, and the red flags that just kept waving. Stay tuned for part two next week. 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
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Teenage Exorcisms & Mega-Church Millions: Rachael Reign’s UCKG Story
07/14/2025
Teenage Exorcisms & Mega-Church Millions: Rachael Reign’s UCKG Story
This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. This week our guest is Rachael Reign, a survivor of the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG). At just 13, Rachael was swept into UCKG’s world of fire and brimstone – where teenage exorcisms were a weekly ritual, your mental health struggles meant demons were lurking inside you, and giving your last cent to the church wasn’t just encouraged – it was demanded. She shares how she went from being a bright, curious teenager to a youth group leader tasked with recruiting others, cleaning the church floorboards with her tears, and enduring violent “strong prayers” that left her bruised, broken, and questioning her sanity. Behind the gospel music and shiny sermons was a cult built on fear, shame, and draining its members dry in the name of salvation. Rachael doesn’t hold back as she unpacks the manipulative recruitment tactics, the psychological torment disguised as faith, and the way UCKG weaponized scripture to justify abuse and financial exploitation. She also takes us through her escape – losing everything she knew, only to rebuild from the ashes into an advocate fighting for cult survivors and legal reform in the UK. Because when your church tells you to give God everything, what they really mean is: give it to us – your money, your body, your mind, your freedom. For more from Rachael, follow her on Instagram @rachaelreign. 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
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Memoir of Madness in a Cult of One - Sarma Melngailis Spills All the Tea on Healing (Part 2)
07/10/2025
Memoir of Madness in a Cult of One - Sarma Melngailis Spills All the Tea on Healing (Part 2)
Raw vegan queen. Netflix’s “Bad Vegan.” Culty comeback queen. Whatever label you stick on Sarma Melngailis, it’s clear she’s not done telling her side of the story – and we’re here for it. In Part 2 of our chat, Sarma gets even realer about life after Mr. Fox. From the mind games that taught her to dissociate, to her self-diagnosed matrix moments, she opens up about rebuilding her identity in a world that still sees her as a headline villain. She talks dating post-trauma, the healing power of alone time (cue: tears, journals, and EFT tapping), and why her business decisions now come with a hefty dose of pause and reflect. Plus, Sarma shares why she walked away from partnerships that didn’t vibe, her hot takes on the “non-reactivity” cult trend, and what Bad Vegan got oh-so-wrong about her. Spoiler: it’s a lot. For more on Sarma, you can find her on Instagram @sarmamelngailis, on her website , or on Patreon at Also, check out her book The Girl with the Duck Tattoo, available for pre-order now. 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 newest book here Check out our lovely sponsors Join ‘A Little Bit Culty’ on Patreon Get poppin’ fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah’s TEDTalk CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Amphibian.Media Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Amphibian.Media Audio production: Red Caiman Studios Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin
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Memoir of Madness in a Cult of One - Sarma Melngailis Spills All the Tea on Healing (Part 1)
07/07/2025
Memoir of Madness in a Cult of One - Sarma Melngailis Spills All the Tea on Healing (Part 1)
Raw vegan queen turned Netflix “villain”? In this episode, we sit down with Sarma Melngailis – yes, Bad Vegan Sarma – to get the real story behind the headlines. She’s back for her third culty chat, this time with the exclusive on her brand-new memoir The Girl with the Duck Tattoo (don’t worry, we ask her about the title). Sarma dives into the psychological warfare that turned her life upside down: coercive control, gaslighting, and a manipulative Mr. Fox who left her broke, arrested, and widely misunderstood. She opens up about the pain (and relief) of telling it all, what the Netflix doc twisted, and why she’s reclaiming her narrative – duck tattoo and all. This one’s raw, redemptive, and a stark reminder: not every headline villain is the real bad guy. For more on Sarma, you can find her on Instagram @sarmamelngailis, on her website , or on Patreon at patreon.com/sarmasarma. Also, check out her book The Girl with the Duck Tattoo, . 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Ride or Die: Jess Rothschild Spills on SoulCycle's Inner Circle
06/16/2025
Ride or Die: Jess Rothschild Spills on SoulCycle's Inner Circle
This episode is sponsored in part by BetterHelp. This week, we’re clipping in with Jess Rothschild to talk about SoulCycle: the high-octane, candlelit cardio craze that once had New Yorkers dropping $20k to ride front row. With $100M+ in revenue, instructors trained like pop stars, and a tightly curated sense of belonging (read: exclusivity), SoulCycle pedaled its way into cultural obsession—and, depending on who you ask, cult status. Jess, a former SoulCycle regular and host of the GLAAD-nominated Finding Fire Island and new docu-podcast Cult of Body & Soul, joins us to unpack the seductive psychology of the SoulCycle experience: from spiritual monologues to the sweaty transference happening mid-sprint. We talk about limerence, manipulation, performance, and yes, the merch. Whether you’re a front-row devotee or just cult-curious, this ride gets personal. For more from Jess, check out her podcasts and , or follow her on Instagram @jessxnyc. 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
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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
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Cults Like Us: Jane Borden on Puritans, Power & American Exceptionalism (Part 1)
06/09/2025
Cults Like Us: Jane Borden on Puritans, Power & American Exceptionalism (Part 1)
Were the Puritans America’s first cult? Our guest this week makes a compelling case for yes. Jane Borden is a journalist and the author of Cults Like Us: Why Doomsday Thinking Drives America. In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, she joins us to unpack how Puritan beliefs—think apocalypse prepping, chosen nation syndrome, and the worship of wealth—laid the groundwork for the kind of culty thinking that still thrives in America today. We dig into the legacy of American exceptionalism, the allure of authoritarian leaders, and the ways our pop culture heroes reflect Puritan values more than we realize. Jane also walks us through the tragic case of the Love Has Won cult and explains how power warps empathy, especially when paired with a doomsday mindset. It’s a wild ride through history, psychology, and politics, with heavy cult undertones. Check out Jane’s book Cults Like Us and more of her work at , and stay tuned for Part 2 next week. 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
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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
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Is It a Spiritual Path or a Cult? Mitch Horowitz Helps Us Break It Down
06/02/2025
Is It a Spiritual Path or a Cult? Mitch Horowitz Helps Us Break It Down
This week on A Little Bit Culty, we’re getting a little mystical—with our eyes wide open. Historian and occult scholar Mitch Horowitz joins us to explore the space where spirituality meets personal growth, and how easily it can slip into culty territory. His latest book, , helps make sense of mystical ideas while encouraging intentional belief. We dig into the red flags to watch for on the seeker’s path, from peer pressure and time abuse to isolation and guru worship. We also talk about money, emotion, and how performance culture can sneak into spiritual spaces. Mitch makes the case for private exploration, critical thinking, and walking away when something doesn’t feel right. Whether you’re deep into the woo or just woo-adjacent, this one’s packed with insight on how to stay curious without giving your power away. For more of Mitch and his work, or follow him on Instagram @mitchhorowitz23 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
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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 2)
This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. We’re back with Part 2 of our conversation with Tamara Mathieu—and if you thought Part 1 was wild, just wait. This time, Tammy walks us through what finally pushed her family to leave the Twelve Tribes, including a hollow diet, some serious double standards, and a clandestine late-night escape from their Florida commune. She shares what it’s like to rejoin the outside world after years of being told it was evil (spoiler: it’s weird), how Rite Aid and a bag of Hershey’s Kisses helped rewire her brain, and what healing looks like when you’re doing it for both yourself and your kids. We also talk about her book, , part memoir, part survival manual, for anyone trying to make sense of life after leaving a high-control group. If you missed Part 1, hit pause and go back. You’ll want the full story. 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
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Inside the Yellow Deli Cult: Tamara Mathieu on Life in Twelve Tribes (Part 1)
05/26/2025
Inside the Yellow Deli Cult: Tamara Mathieu on Life in Twelve Tribes (Part 1)
This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. Twelve Tribes started as a Bible study in the 1970s. Today, it’s a nationwide network of high-control communities, often hiding in plain sight behind the homespun charm of Yellow Deli cafés. The group claims to offer a simpler, more spiritual life. But behind the braided bread and “family values” lies a world of control, corporal punishment, and deep-rooted misogyny. In Part 1 of our conversation with Tamara Mathieu, we hear what it’s like to live inside. Tammy spent 14 years in the Twelve Tribes, lured in by the promise of community and stability at a vulnerable time in her life. But what began as a warm welcome quickly turned into an authoritarian nightmare, especially for women and children. She shares how the group isolates members, enforces biblical patriarchy, and punishes dissent, and what it took to finally break free. To learn more about Tammy’s journey, check out her memoir , a raw and powerful account of survival and escape. 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
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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
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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
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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
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Polygamy, Incest & Reality TV: Amanda Rae Breaks the Silence (Part 1)
05/12/2025
Polygamy, Incest & Reality TV: Amanda Rae Breaks the Silence (Part 1)
This episode is sponsored in part by Betterhelp. In this week’s episode, we chat with Amanda Rae, survivor of the infamous Kingston clan, a radical Mormon sect also known as “The Order.” If you’ve seen Escaping Polygamy on A&E, you might recognize Amanda from the show, where she helped others flee the same secretive and abusive group she escaped at just 17. Amanda shares what it was like growing up in a world built on polygamy, incest, and “pure bloodlines”—including the pressure to marry her cousin, her father’s multiple incestuous marriages, and the cult’s obsession with racial purity. She walks us through the shocking inner workings of the Kingston clan: secret banks, isolation tactics, assigned marriages, and the terrifying consequences of trying to leave. This is the first half of Amanda’s harrowing story of survival, recovery, and advocacy. Stay tuned for Part 2 later this week. To learn more, visit Amanda Rae’s YouTube channel: 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
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Goop, Teens, and Wellness Myths with Hayley Krischer
05/05/2025
Goop, Teens, and Wellness Myths with Hayley Krischer
The beauty and wellness industry promises healing, glow-ups, and self-love—but what happens when those promises come wrapped in pseudoscience, toxic messaging, and culty marketing tactics? This week, Sarah and Nippy are joined by culture journalist and author Hayley Krischer, whose latest novel You Belong to Me explores the power and peril of the wellness world—especially for women and teenage girls. Together, they unpack how this booming, often unregulated industry thrives on physical insecurities and mental vulnerabilities, pushing pricey products and questionable advice under the guise of “self-care.” From celebrity brands like Goop to TikTok trends targeting teens, this episode is a deep dive into the cult-like tactics behind the glossy packaging—and a reminder that critical thinking is your best defense. To learn more about Hayley’s work, 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
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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 2)
We’re back with Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Mara Einstein, diving even deeper into the unsettling connections between cults, multi-level marketing (MLMs), higher education, and the digital world. In this episode, we unpack how MLMs use tactics like love bombing, upselling, and deception to recruit and retain members — and how these same strategies show up in places you might not expect, like college admissions and social media. Mara walks us through the financial and emotional tolls of higher education, the anxiety economy created by tech platforms, and the importance of protecting your data privacy in a world built to exploit it. With real-world examples and practical advice, this episode is packed with insights on how to stay critical, self-aware, and informed in the face of modern manipulation. To learn more about Dr. Einstein and her work, visit and check out her latest book 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
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Hoodwinked by the Algorithm: Dr. Mara Einstein on Cult Tactics in Marketing (Part 1)
04/21/2025
Hoodwinked by the Algorithm: Dr. Mara Einstein on Cult Tactics in Marketing (Part 1)
You don’t have to join a cult to get manipulated—just log onto the internet. This week on A Little Bit Culty, we’re diving into the marketing matrix with Dr. Mara Einstein, professor, media critic, and author of . From influencer culture and MLMs to “brand cults” and rage farming, Mara breaks down how modern marketing preys on fear, insecurity, and our need to belong. She joins Sarah and Nippy for a deep-dive into the culty parallels between conversion funnels and recruitment tactics, why brands like Apple and Lululemon are more community than commerce, and how social media algorithms corral us into echo chambers where we become both the audience and the product. If you’ve ever felt like your phone is reading your mind, or like the coaching industry is selling more promises than progress, this one’s for you. This is Part 1 of a two-part convo. Stay tuned next week for more! To learn more about Dr. Einstein and her work, 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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