The Church of Scientology presents itself as a humanitarian organization with the answers to life and a membership of 8 million people.

Yet, CoS likely has less than 30,000 members (with more leaving) and the Average Joe stopped taking them seriously the second they heard the Xenu story from SOUTH PARK.

Since the mid-2000s, we’ve seen the media cover accusations against the Church of Scientology and leader, David Miscavige, that range from abuse, false imprisonment, slave labor, forced abortions, separation of families, and harassment of enemies. Can the increase in this type of reporting be attributed to one very famous movie star, who also is a devoted Scientologist?

Jordan and Dylan interview journalist, Tony Ortega, to find out and also discuss the history of the Church (from the L. Ron Hubbard days to now), what it’s like to be a Church member, and the current state of Scientology journalism.

Our interview was recorded via Skype. Pardon the choppy sound and background noise. We assure you you’ll still enjoy this conversation.

NOTES:

1. Thank you so much to Tony Ortega for coming on the show. Please check out his blog, The Underground Bunker to get the latest news on Scientology.

2. See here for a history of press coverage on CoS (including the 1991 Time Magazine story)

3. GOING CLEAR is on YouTube for the time being. This documentary will answer any lingering questions you have after listening to this podcast.

4. The LA Times' “incurious” nature towards CoS

5. Leah Remini is my hero! Her podcast is "Fair Game"

6. Cracked article describing “Snow White”

7. MOST IMPORTANT SOURCE HERE: THE PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL THE MODERN DAY SCIENTOLOGY REPORTING

8. How did Tom join the Church?

9. Info on the “Tom Cruise black turtleneck” video.

10. Ever wonder why Tom and Nicole broke up and what CoS may have had to do with it?

11. Tom Cruise and tough questions the press doesn’t ask him

12. Tom Cruise and “girlfriend auditions”.

13. Troublesome tabloid reporting. Also see here.

14. Dax and his celeb pals

The 21st Century Scientology Media Powder Keg (feat. Tony Ortega)

Year 2000 FixBy Jordan Sep 23, 2020