The CULTure
By The CULTure
Produced by The Parea Collective
The CULTureJan 06, 2024
Episode 41 - Mother God
Anna and Mark are back with their first episode of 2024. With all the buzz around the recent HBO docuseries "Mother God" it was only fitting to start here for the new year. This episode focuses on Amy Carlson and her background, their core beliefs, and some of the footage of the docuseries.
***Language warning: This episode contains language that may not be appropriate for young listeners.
Sources for this episode:
HBO's Docuseries "Mother God"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amy_Carlson_(religious_leader)
https://www.marieclaire.com/culture/a37417778/love-has-won-cult-amy-carlson-stroud-death/
Episode 40 - Escaping Twin Flames
Anna and Mark react to the recent docuseries in Netflix "Escaping Twin Flames". Covered in a past episode (8) of this podcast, episode 40 is more of a reaction and commentary on the docuseries as a whole. Thank you to everyone who continues to support this podcast, please reach out if you have any thoughts or suggestions for future episodes. Have a great holiday and remember, dont drink the kool-aid.
Sources used in this episode: Netflix's "Escaping Twin Flames"
Follow us on instagram for additional content and a way to connect with the hosts @The.Cult.ure
Episode 39 - Church of God Restoration
Anna and Mark are back discussing a group based out of Greensville Ohio called "The Church of God Restoration". A group that started in 1880, this religious group bases their teachings on the Christian faith, but continues to write scripture and has living Apostles.
Sources for this episode:
The church of God Restoration Facebook Page
www.churchofgod.com
"Apostate Ashley" on Youtube
Episode 38 - La Luz Del Mundo Pt. 2
Anna and Mark finish their two part series on La Luz Del Mundo. Inspired to cover this group from the recent docuseries on HBO entitled "Unveiled", part 2 is a direct commentary on the three part series. From allegations & eventual convictions of sexual assault, bribery, and physical violence, this episode touches on it all as told by former members of La Luz Del Mundo. If you haven't listened to episode 36 yet, make sure you get the background on this group before listening to this episode. Thanks to everyone who continues to support the pod and remember, dont drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Episode 37 - Shiny Happy People
Anna and Mark discuss the recent docuseries available on Amazon entitled "Shiny Happy People". This is a 4 episode series that examines the Duggar family from the television show 19 Kids and Counting. For those unfamiliar with the IBPL and their teachings, make sure you listen to episode 7 of the podcast where they cover that group in depth. Thanks to all the fans of the pod and remember, don't drink the kool-aid.
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Episode 36 - La Luz Del Mundo Pt. 1
Anna and Mark are back to discuss the religious group known as Iglesia del Dios Vivo, Columna y Apoyo de la Verdad, La Luz del Mundo; or more commonly known as La Luz Del Mundo. This series of episodes will focus on their religious beliefs as well as the controversies laid out in the HBO documentary Unveiled. Thanks to all for supporting the pod, and remember, don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Luz_del_Mundo
https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-mar-10-mn-27361-story.html
Episode 35 - Sins of Our Mother Pt. 2
Anna and Mark wrap up the 2022 year by finishing their discussion of the Netflix docuseries "The Sins of Our Mother". They finish up the story of Lori Vallow, the woman who failed to produce her missing children only for the world to find out later that they were dead and buried in Chad Daybell's yard. For those who are following along, Part 2 focuses on episode 2 and 3 of the series. The trail is set for April of 2023 where Chad and Lori will meet their fate. The CULTure would like to thank everyone who has continued listening to us this year. We looking forward to our return in 2023, and remember as we wind down towards the new year....... dont drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on IG @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode: Netflix "The Sins of Our Mother"
- https://kjzz.com/news/police-detail-cultish-beliefs-of-mom-charged-in-childrens-deaths
- https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/sins-of-our-mother-everything-know-about-lori-vallow-chad-daybells-alleged-cult-preparing-a-people.html/
- https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/chandler-breaking/2021/10/07/records-reveal-details-lori-vallow-and-chad-daybells-religious-fervor/6028383001/
Episode 34 - Sins of Our Mother Pt. 1
Anna and Mark are back to break down the Netflix limited series "The Sins of Our Mother". The show follows the true story of Lori Vallow and her vanishing children. From hyper religiosity to becoming a prophet of God, there is plenty to talk about in this cult-adjacent story. Follow along with our hosts over the next couple weeks as they dissect the rest of the episodes and as always, don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on IG @The.Cult.ure
Episode 33 - Anna's Big Fat Greek Wedding
Anna and Mark are back with some life updates and a recap of Anna's wedding a few months back. It was Mark's first Greek Orthodox wedding and he has some thoughts, a few of which are cult-adjacent. Our hosts give a few life updates and whether or not these newest batch of true crime shows are good for society. They will be back soon with new episodes about religious groups but for now enjoy the sound of their voices and remember, don't drink the kool-aid......
Follow us on Instagram @The.Cult.ure for updates and episode previews
Episode 32 - Teal Swan Pt. 2
Anna and Mark are back with their two-part series on the documentary "The Deep End". The relationships become complicated and Mary Scott has decisions to make about her inner circle. Lives are altered and some people will never be the same. As always, dont drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Episode 31 - Teal Swan Pt. 1
** Trigger Warning: This episodes contains conversation about sexual & physical abuse. Listener discretion is advised.
Anna and Mark explore the life and work of Mary Teal Scott, AKA Teal Swan. From her beginnings in AZ & Utah, to her social media presence and bold blunt approach, Anna breaks down early life and rise to power. The two hosts also walk through episode 1 of the four part docuseries available now on Hulu entitled "The Deep End". Follow along with them over the next two episodes as they discuss the series in full and give their opinions on this life mentor. As always, dont drink the kool-aid. Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
- The Docuseries "The Deep End"
- Teal Swan Youtube Channel
- https://tealswan.com/about-teal/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teal_Swan
- https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2018/08/205915/the-gateway-teal-swan-youtube-cult-jennings-brown
Episode 30 - Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey Companion Pt. 2
Trigger Warning****** This episode contains conversation about sexual assault
Anna and Mark finish their discussion of the Netflix limited series "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey". Episode 3 and 4 focus on the creation of "Zion" and the trail and downfall of Warren Jeffs. Thanks to everyone who continues to support the podcast! And remember, dont drink the kool-aid.
Episode 29 - Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey Companion Pt. 1
Anna and Mark discuss the recent trending documentary series on Netflix called "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey". Part one of this companion covers episode one and two of the FLDS mini-series. The hosts give their reactions to the footage and go back and revisit moments from episode 5 of The Culture where FLDS is the focus. More to come on this mini-series in the upcoming weeks. Tune in and remember, don't drink the Kool-aid.
Sources for this episode: "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey" on Netflix.
Episode 28 - Eva's Eden
Anna and Mark are back to dive into a not so scary religious group called Eva's Eden. Started by Rev. Sheryl Ruthven in Washington, used a cat shelter as a front for this growing religious movement. This hodgepodge of religious symbols and ceremonies have one thing in common, she is the prophet and the cats are the angels... Give the episode a listen to get more details and remember, dont drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Episode Notes:
"Apocalypse Meow: How a Cult That Believe Cats Are Divine Beings Ended Up in Tennessee" by Bob Smietana
Episode 27 - John of God
Anna and Mark break down Jaeo Teieira a.k.a. John of God. This spiritual healer lived in Brazil and began performing miraculous signs and wonder through the power of the "entity" that he was able to embody. People came from great distances to get help when modern medicine couldnt get it done. From his compound called "Casa de Dom Inacio de Loyola", he performed thousands of spiritual and physical operations. From tumors and cancer to paralyzed individuals, no ailment was too much for John of God. The story takes a horrific turn as John began to use his power to sexually assault his patience. Tune in to find out what happened to John of God.
***Trigger Warning, This episode contains stories of sexual assault
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Show Notes:
"John of God" documentary on Netflix
Wikipedia - Teixeira de Faria
http://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2018/12/17/celebrity-brazilian-healer-john-god-once-featured-by-oprah-surrenders-sexual-abuse-charges/
Episode 26 - NXIVM and "The Vow" Pt. 2
Anna and Mark are back with part 2 of their analysis of the documentary "The Vow". In this episode the focus is on episode 2 and three of the limited series. From NXIVM weddings to the inner circle DOS, Anna walks Mark through the downfall of this organization and the unfortunate situations that some of these women found themselves in. Thanks to all our fans for tuning in and remember.....don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
"The Vow" documentary currently available on HBO Max
Episode 25 - NXIVM and "The Vow" Pt. 1
Anna and Mark look deeper into the documentary "The Vow" which is currently available on HBO Max. The documentary, which originally aired in 2020, investigates the NXIVM group and follows the story through the trial and conviction of its leader, Keith Raniere. Part 1 of our series focuses on episode 1 and 2 of this documentary series. As always, thanks for supporting the pod and remember, don't drink the kool-aid...
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Sources used in this episode:
"The Vow" documentary series currently on HBO Max
Episode 24 - NXIVM
Anna and Mark are back with their first episode of 2022. To start the year, the hosts focus on Keith Raniere's group NXIVM. This philosophical movement and social development program was established in 1998, but quickly gets out of hand. Listen as Anna explains the mental manipulation that people were put through and the narcissistic actions by Keith and other leaders alike. Anna brings it up to present day with current status of high ranking officials and Mark speculates on the future for this group. Thanks for supporting the pod and remember, Don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure for visuals that accompany the episodes.
Sources for this episode:
“Dont call it a cult” by Sarah Berman
Wikipedia
Escaping NXIVM-CBC Uncover
The Vow
NY TIMES
Episode 23 - Scientology Pt. 3 w/Going Clear
In this episode Anna and Mark discuss the documentary "Going Clear" which is currently available on HBO Max. They give their reactions as well as fact check against the previous two episodes of the podcast where they covered this group in depth. Anna cant get over the creation story as explained in the film, while Mark pieces things together now that he's seen some visuals. This is the last episode of the year, and a huge thanks goes out to the cult fam for sticking with us. Have a great holiday season and remember...don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Episode 22 - Scientology Pt. 2
Anna and Mark are back to finish up their quick look at the world of Scientology. Part 2 focuses on the beliefs of this group, and the practical day to day life for those involved. Anna shares a great first date story that ended badly with a former member. Anna also walks through recent history and controversy with this group. Look for an upcoming episode in which Anna and Mark will be reacting to watching the Scientology documentary "Going Clear" and remember cult fam, dont drink the kool-aid.
Sources for this episode:
"The Aftermath" on A&E
Fair Game podcast with Leah Remini and Mike
Going Clear Documentary
Scientology.org
Brittanica.com
mikerindersblog.org
https://www.cs.cmu.edu/~dst/Fishman/time-behar.html
https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/is-scientology-a-dangerous-cult-1.917839
https://www.rollingstone.com/tv/tv-news/5-things-we-learned-from-leah-reminis-scientology-expose-tv-show-113731/
Episode 21 - Scientology Pt. 1
Anna and Mark start a two-part series on Scientology. Part 1 focuses on the founder of Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard. From his early life to the founding of the "church" in 1954, it sets the stage for a deep dive in Part 2. Anna also lays out some of the foundational beliefs and tenets of this group to help Mark wrap his head around how this organization works. Thanks to all who listen and support us, please leave us a rating and review on Apple podcasts and remember.....don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram for episode images and exclusive content @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
"The Aftermath" on A&E
Fair Game podcast with Leah Remini and Mike
Going Clear Documentary
Scientology.org
Brittanica.com
mikerindersblog.org
https://www.cs.cmu.edu/~dst/Fishman/time-behar.html
https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/is-scientology-a-dangerous-cult-1.917839
https://www.rollingstone.com/tv/tv-news/5-things-we-learned-from-leah-reminis-scientology-expose-tv-show-113731/
Episode 20 - The Remnant Fellowship Pt. 2
Anna and Mark revisit the Remnant Fellowship (first covered in episode 14) after viewing the HBO Max documentary "The Way Down". They re-hash the mini series and compare it to what they knew prior. Whether you've watched the doc or not, this episode dives deeper into the group and somehow still leaves you wanting more. And remember cult fam, don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure
Episode 19 - The Seekers
Anna and Mark discuss the 1950's short lived movement called The Seekers, or sometimes called The Rapurists. Started by Dorothy Martin, a once Scientologist, she receives a message from the aliens that the world is going down and they need to get off. After a few failed attempts, or maybe a misreading of the calendar, the group disbands. Mark and Anna both immediate recall the Parks and Rec episode with a similar plot line. Mark enjoys covering a group with no violence or crime, but of course Anna has to ruin the vibe with a teaser for upcoming episodes and it will not stay g-rated. Thanks for listening cult fam, and remember not to drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Seekers_(rapturists)
https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/12/the-christmas-the-aliens-didnt-come/421122/
https://www.chicagomag.com/city-life/may-2011/dorothy-martin-the-chicagoan-who-predicted-the-end-of-the-world-and-inspired-the-theory-of-cognitive-dissonance/
Episode 18 - Hare Krishnas
Mark and Anna are back! This episode looks at the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, or Hare Krishnas. This Hindu derived group found a home in areas like San Francisco during the 70s, but has found sustainable membership in the East. Anna loves the idea of a cow sanctuary while Mark thinks the amount of daily mahamantras is a bit over the top. Thanks for the support cult fam, and remember not to drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure
Episode Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Society_for_Krishna_Consciousness
https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=90643796
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2016/10/27/after-50-years-hare-krishna-believers-are-no-longer-berobed-white-hippies-who-drum-up-donations-in-airports/
Episode 17 - The Amish
Anna and Mark are back! They discuss what occurred that made them take a break and kick off the return by focusing on Jakob Amman and the Amish. Birthed from the Mennonite but soon split due to belief issues, this group is often misunderstood due to television and movie stereotypes. Anna explains the difference between old world and new world amish, and Mark officially declares this his favorite episode so far. Thanks for listening cult fam, and remember, don't drink the kool-aid!
Follow us on instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure
Show notes:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Amish
https://www.discoverlancaster.com/amish/history-beliefs/
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/08/15/amish-ten-things-you-need-to-know/14111249/
https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/amish-in-america/
http://groups.etown.edu/amishstudies/cultural-practices/rumspringa/
https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5455572
Fun Size Bonus Ep 4 - Cult-Like Tendencies Pt. 2
Anna and Mark have come up with a few more "Culty" things in society that they share with the fam. They tackle dentist offices, timeshares, and many more. If you have any suggestions for the next fun size episode, send us a DM! Hope you enjoy cult fam!
Follow us on instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure
Episode 16 - The Twelve Tribes
Anna and Mark discuss Eugene Elbert Spriggs and his 1970s religious movement called The Twelve Tribes. An attempt to prepare for the second coming of Christ, Eugene and his group go old testament with a long list of rules to follow including no personal wealth, community parenting and discipline and a dress code. Anna is out on the low-key child labor while Mark is looking forward to visiting a Yellow Deli in the near future. As always thanks to the cult fam for listening, and remember, dont drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on Instagram for images from this episode @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
https://www.splcenter.org/fighting-hate/intelligence-report/2018/darkness by Brendan Joel Kelley
https://psmag.com/social-justice/children-of-the-tribes by Julia Scheeres
https://www.cuindependent.com/2019/12/11/cult-twelve-tribes-child-abuse-boulder/ by Colie Dorfman
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twelve_Tribes_communities
http://www.people.vcu.edu/~dbromley/undergraduate/spiritualCommunity/TwelveTribes.html by David G Bromley
Episode 15 - The Moonies
Click the link below if you want to support our podcast. Thanks Cult Fam!
https://anchor.fm/theculturepod/support
Anna and Mark discuss Sun Myung Moon's group who originated under the name of the Unification Church in South Korea. Moon hears from God as a youth and must finish the work that Jesus started. This group takes a lot from other spiritual beliefs in South East Asia, but is probably most well-known for their large "blessing ceremonies" that peaked in 2009 with 20,000 people attending. Although this group was at its height in the 1960-80s, it still exists today and Mark thinks it wont be the last we hear about this group. Thanks for listening cult fam, and remember not to drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram for images for this episode @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unification_Church
- http://familyfed.org/about-us/
- https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/9-things-know-unification-church/
- https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/sep/03/moonie-cult-leader
- https://www.nytimes.com/1976/05/30/archives/the-pull-of-sun-moon-thousands-of-young-americans-believe-he-has.html
- https://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-celebrities/authors/sun-myung-moon-net-worth/
- https://www.ozy.com/news-and-politics/meet-the-billionaire-holy-mother-of-the-unification-church/80841/
- http://www.cs.cornell.edu/info/people/kreitz/Christian/Cults/6.moon.pdf
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Confucianism
Episode 14 - Remnant Fellowship
Anna and Mark discuss Gwen Shamblin Lara's Remnant Fellowship on this weeks episode. Due to the recent tragedy, they felt it was right to skip ahead in their timeline to give the info on this current group. Gwen's first successful endeavor, The Weigh Down Workshop, was started in 1986 and quickly took Christian churches by storm. This weight loss for Jesus movement inspired her to take it one step further and she developed a behavior-driven gospel movement that will become the Remnant Fellowship. Get all the details as well as the tragic end to this story that took place in May 2021. Thanks for supporting the pod and remember, don't drink the kool-aid.
For exclusive content please follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwen_Shamblin_Lara
https://www.remnantfellowship.org/welcome-to-remnant-fellowship/
https://www.spiritwatch.org/remnantwatch.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgia_v._Smith
https://www.wfial.org/index_fuseaction_artGeneral-article_4.html
Episode 13 - People's Temple Pt. 2 & Jonestown
Anna and Mark discuss the tragic end of the Jim Jones and his Jonestown experiment in South America. Anna breaks down daily life in Guyana with White Nights, a pet monkey named Mr. Muggs, and the ultimate sign of allegiance to the leader that lead to the largest cult suicide event in history. Mark is stunned the entire episode and shocked to find out the real meaning of the expression "Don't drink the kool-aid" while Anna was able to obtain information from an interview with one of the group member's family. Thanks for joining us, and as always make sure you don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on Instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure
Sources for this episode:
- https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/jonestown-bio-jones/
- https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/jonestown-nov-18-1978/
- https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/jonestown-guyana/
- https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/jonestown-bio-leo-ryan/
- https://www.nytimes.com/1978/12/18/archives/the-names-of-the-jonestown-dead-kin-not-notified.html
- https://jonestown.sdsu.edu/?who_died=kutulas-demosthenis-dan
- https://vault.fbi.gov/jonestown/jonestown-part-257-258-of-1
- The Jonestown institute-tapes
- Interview with Father Jim Pappas
Episode 12 - Peace Mission Movement - People's Temple Pt. 1
Anna and Mark discuss Father Divine and his Peace Mission Movement that took place in the United States during the 1920s & 30s. His humanitarian approach to Christianity provided him with a lot of support during the Great Depression as many Americans were struggling for food and shelter. However, it was his failure to address the problems with race in America, thinking that we should all be one big happy family, that caused some people to turn away. Divine was a very action based leader, but his personal actions spoke louder than his preaching. His fancy cars, real estate purchases, and expensive clothing quickly separated him from his followers. This movement serves as the jumping off point for Jim Jones and his People's Temple. Jones picks up where Divine left off, with Socialism and action being the road to salvation. A young hellion as a child, Jim found that he had the gift for preaching. He loved the attention and applause, something that he never received as a child. This would fuel his movement that would eventually lead to him convincing thousands of people to head to South America. That's where Part 2 will pick up next week! Remember, don't drink the kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure
sources for this episode:
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Peace-Mission
- https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2003-jun-14-me-religdivine14-story.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father_Divine#:~:text=On%20September%2010%2C%201965%2C%20Father,causes%20at%20his%20Woodmont%20estate
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Peoples-Temple
- https://jonestown.sdsu.edu/?page_id=35356
- https://jonestown.sdsu.edu/?page_id=35356
Episode 11 - Synanon
Anna and Mark sit down to discuss a drug rehab facility turned cult that took place in California in the late 1950s. The leader, Charles Dederich, a former drug abuser and classic narcissist who somehow finds himself in charge of over 1,000 people who don't or cant leave the facility, even after they have been "cured". With questionable tactics that he claimed would cure addition, he quickly found himself in charge of an armed force of overalls wearing, shaved head-militants that were ready for battle. Anna is sickened by the "The Game" and Mark sees Chuck as winning this entire story. Thanks for joining us and drinking the kool-aid.
Follow us on Instagram @The.Cult.ure for images of the episodes
Sources for this episode:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synanon
https://www.lamag.com/citythinkblog/synanon-cult/-by Hillel Aron
https://www.the-sun.com/news/733321/synanon-cult-rehab-abortions-sterilizations/
https://www.cabinetmagazine.org/issues/48/pendle.php by George Pendle
Episode 10 - Heaven's Gate Pt. 2
Anna and Mark sit down to discuss the final chapter of the Heaven's Gate saga. This one takes a left turn real quick. For those who aren't familiar with the history, let's just say it is out of this world. Its all for one and one for all as this interesting two-part story comes to a close. Anna feels like she might have scarred Mark for life while he is out searching for a new illusive pair of sneakers. Thanks as always for listening cult fam, keep drinking the kool-aid......but don't eat the applesauce.
Follow us on instagram for exclusive content and images from each episode @The.Cult.ure
Sources for the episode are listed below:
Heaven’s gate the cult of cults by ---->
https://www.rollingstone.com/feature/heavens-gate-20-years-later-10-things-you-didnt-know-114563/ by Michael Hafford
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Heavens-Gate-religious-group
By J. Gordon Melton
https://www.britannica.com/topic/new-religious-movement/Scientific-NRMs-UFO-groups-and-Scientology#ref846270 by Murray Rubenstein
Episode 9 - Heaven's Gate Pt. 1
Anna and Mark introduce the cult of all cults, Heaven's Gate. In pt. 1 Anna explains the history and the basic beliefs of Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles, the founders of Heaven's Gate. Citing the book of Revelation, these two claim to be the second coming as they solidify their small "crew" of followers. They mix a little of every cult that we've mentioned so far this season, with the addition of extra-terrestrial life. Thanks for drinking the kool-aid this week cult fam.
Follow us on Instagram for exclusive images and content @The.Cult.ure
Sources:
Heaven’s gate the cult of cults by ---->
https://www.rollingstone.com/feature/heavens-gate-20-years-later-10-things-you-didnt-know-114563/ by Michael Hafford
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Heavens-Gate-religious-group
By J. Gordon Melton
https://www.britannica.com/topic/new-religious-movement/Scientific-NRMs-UFO-groups-and-Scientology#ref846270 by Murray Rubenstein
Episode 8 - Theosophical Society/Twin Flames Universe
A 2-for-1 episode this week as Anna and Mark continue their historical look at cults by diving into the Theosophical Society. From the symbol to the leader (Blavatsky), most aspects of this group have been borrowed from eastern tradition. It follows the classic formula of divine teaching that has only been revealed to her, so everyone better fall in line. Their roots are important to understand the Twin Flames and where some of their doctrine come from. Both of these groups basically are a hodgepodge of already existing systems of thought. Mixing and matching for their benefit and to support their purpose. Twin Flames focus on helping people find their soul mate.... for a not so small fee. With an active social media presence, YouTube is the platform of choice they use to get their message out there. Check it out for yourself and let us know what you think. Thanks for listening Cult Fam!
Give us a follow on social media for additional content and visuals @The.Cult.ure
Sources:
Vanity Fair "Inside the All Consuming World of Twin Flames"
https://theosophy.wiki/en/Main_Page
https://www.blavatskyarchives.com/kuhnthesecretdoctrine.htm#
Fun Size Bonus Ep 3 - Q and A
Anna and Mark keep it light with a Q&A episode. Helping the listeners get to know the people behind the microphones. Keep sending in questions on instagram and maybe it'll make our next Q&A episode. From hobbies to post-pandemic travel plans, they cover a range of topics. Enjoy cult fam!
Follow us on instagram for more content @The.Cult.ure
Episode 7 - IBLP
In Episode 7, Anna and Mark discuss the Institute in Basic Life Principles. Started by Bill Gothard, these Christian extremists are big on disciplined behavior, modesty for women, and private academies to educate the youth of their group. Anna got introduced to this group via a viral Tik-Tok, and quickly found out they have some "famous" advocates in the media. Mark is unsupportive of any group that does allow blue jeans or fun; but doesn't necessarily mind the banning of Christian Rock music. Thanks for supporting us Cult Fam, keep drinking that kool-aid.
Follow us on instagram for images and additional content @The.Cult.ure
Info for this episode comes from:
Life-iblp.org
"The Cult Next Door" by Bryan Smith published in the Chicago Mag
Recoveringgrace.org
Episode 6 - Aggressive Christianity
In Episode 6, Anna and Mark discuss the Aggressive Christianity Mission Training Corps. An offset of The Salvation Army, Aggressive Christianity is exactly what it sounds like. Hell, fire, and brimstone have these people letting you know exactly what you're doing wrong and why it is not good enough. Although this group is small, they are mighty in force and have had no problem making headlines that led to criminal charges for their leaders. Anna isn't down for a road trip to their commune, but Mark has already start plotting interesting cult pit stops to make along the way. As always, thanks for joining us and drinking the kool-aid. Leave us a rating and review on Apple.
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http://www.aggressivechristianity.net
https://religion.wikia.org/wiki/Aggressive_Christianity_Missionary_Training_Corps
www.apologeticsindex.org › 27...Aggressive Christianity Missions Training Corps - Apologetics Index
www.koat.com › article › forme...Former Aggressive Christianity member speaks out - KOAT
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/ncna796131
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aggressive_Christianity_Missionary_Training_Corps
https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/history-of-the-salvation-army/
Fun Size Bonus Ep 2 - Cult-Like Tendencies
Anna and Mark discuss how prominent cult characteristics have made their way into the mainstream. From Crossfit and veganism to tech companies and MLM's, there is a reason why they are successful and cult influence might have something to do with it.
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Episode 5 - FLDS
Episode 5 covers the history of the FLDS church and its roots in the Mormon Church. Anna and Mark discuss the bizarre practices they have and the fascinating history of the LDS church and its many offshoots. Anna gets a little heated talking about Warren Jeffs and his nastiness, but he deserves it...
Make sure to follow us on Instagram @The.Cult.ure and give us a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts.
- https://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/Op-Ed/2012/07/15/A-short-history-of-Mormonism/stories/201207150118
- https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/mormons-timeline/
- https://abcnews.go.com/US/things-didnt-flds-church/story?id=30827256
- https://fldsmormons.com/25/who-are-the-flds
- https://www.splcenter.org/fighting-hate/extremist-files/group/fundamentalist-church-jesus-christ-latter-day-saints
- https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/oct/13/woman-escaped-cult-hq-flds-refuge
- https://www.biography.com/crime-figure/warren-jeffs
Episode 4 - Thelema Pt. 2
This episode covers the Gnostic Mass which Thelemites celebrate as their main ritual. Get ready to hear about some practices that may make your jaw drop and your skin crawl. Mark is stunned through most of the episode and we are hopeful he has the courage to return to the show next week. Enjoy!
Follow us on Instagram for visuals and additional content @the.cult.ure
Sources for the episode:
Sabazaius.oto-usa.org
Thelemicunion.com
Thelemapedia.org
Oto-usa.org
https://thelemicunion.com/orgasmic-ordeal-sexual-magic-thelema
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/shortcuts/2013/apr/15/peaches-geldof-aleister-crowley-sex-cult-oto
https://www.newsreview.com/sacramento/content/the-dark-gnarly-side/634720/
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/the-great-beast-666-who-was-aleister-crowley-
https://www.thevintagenews.com/2018/05/14/abbey-of-thelema/
Wikipedia-thelema
Episode 3 - Thelema Pt. 1
Episode 3 will uncover the weirdness of Thelema, a philosophical/ideological set of beliefs that focus on doing what you want! Listen in for all the shenanigans as we start by discussing the founder, Aleister Crowley, and his spiritual awakening that include some borrowed ideas. Try to keep from laughing as Anna is brought to tears and snorts over visualizing one of his ceremonies. Stay tuned for next week's episode when we detail the most bizarre aspects of this cult.
Fun Size Bonus Ep 1 - What is a Cult
Welcome to the Bonus Ep! The goal is to occasionally throw out bonus episodes with fan questions. The first question asked was about the word 'cult' itself. What does it mean, where does it come from, and why is there a negative connotation surrounding it. Anna defends her stance and her love for all things 'New Religious Movements' while Mark gives a glimpse into why all things spooky or mysterious don't appeal to him. Enjoy!
Episode 2 - Christian Science
Episode 2 of the CULTure dives into the history, beliefs, and controversies associated with the Church of Christ, Scientist. Picking up where we left off last episode, we start in the 1870s with a wild ride into modern day America, with a bit of ooze. Give it a listen and let us know what you think!
Episode 1 - Spiritualism
Welcome to the CULTure! Episode 1 takes us back in time to the 1800s in the U.S. when Spiritualism was running wild. This will serve as the jumping off point as we give a historical survey of cults in America.