Cults to Consciousness

Mae returns LIVE to answer viewer questions and dive deeper into the parts of her childhood story we couldn’t fully explore in our first conversation. We’ll unpack more of the extreme isolation and religious control she experienced, what happened after she finally left her father’s home, and how she’s learned to navigate freedom, relationships, and healing after growing up so disconnected from the outside world. Click here to watch on YouTube Watch our initial interview with Mae Find and support Mae! YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Maeden IG photography: https://www.instagram.com/maeden.photo/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/maedenart/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Raised in an intensely devout Mormon household, Justin Shoemaker believed happiness and salvation came from following every rule exactly… until religious scrupulosity and intrusive thoughts sent him into a devastating mental-health crisis on his mission. After returning home, attending BYU-Idaho, rushing into a temple marriage, and later becoming deeply involved in an Amway-associated training organization, Justin began recognizing the same patterns of obedience, shame, and surrendered autonomy repeating throughout his life. Click to watch on YouTube Find and support Justin! IG: https://www.instagram.com/jjshoey/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

How did one of America’s most notorious serial killers convince a religious community that he was one of them, and for a time, that he couldn't possibly be guilty? Today we are joined LIVE with Hannah and Jess of the “ @PostmormonPostmortem ” Podcast to deep dive Bundy’s Mormon conversion, his life inside the congregation, arrest, members defending & supporting him, and ultimately his conviction and excommunication. Click here to watch on YouTube Follow and support Hannah & Jess! Website: https://postmormonpostmortem.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/postmormonpostmortem/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@postmormonpostmortem Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Explore my Hungryroot Digital Cookbook “Cult Classics” and get 40% off your first order plus a free item in every box for life at https://hungryroot.com/CULTFREE For most of the first 16 years of her life, Mae Vanders says she was confined to a tiny section of one room inside her family’s hoarded home—never attending school and relying on her older sister, television, and whatever she could read to understand the outside world. Her father invoked the Bible and his role as the “head of the household” to justify extreme control, isolation, and ab*se, until Mae and her mother finally moved out and she began experiencing freedom for the first time. Click here to watch on YouTube Find and support Mae! YT: https://www.youtube.com/@maeden IG photography: https://www.instagram.com/maeden.photo/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/maedenart/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

In this follow-up LIVE, Donna Lamb takes us deeper inside Aesthetic Realism, revealing how the group attempted to control members’ sexuality, relationships, and identities, and how she eventually became part of the system herself. Donna confronts her role in helping convince gay people they could “change,” while exposing the manipulation that kept her devoted to the group for decades. Click here to watch on YouTube Watch our initial interview with Donna Find and support Donna! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnalamb330/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DonnaLambSpeaks Substack: https://donnalamb.substack.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donna.lamb.528 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-lamb-295188144/ Website: https://donnalamb.com/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

They can't harm you, if they can't find you! Use code CULT at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/cult At just 18 years old, Donna Lamb arrived in New York City dreaming of becoming an actress—only to be recruited into sex work on her second day in the city. After dr*gs, violence, and a terrifying encounter that made her fear for her life, Donna escaped that world but soon found herself pulled into Aesthetic Realism, a high-control group that she says attempted to change her sexuality, dictated relationships and even s*x, and demanded devotion to its founder, Eli Siegel. Now 77, Donna shares how she finally reclaimed her own voice after decades of surrendering her autonomy. Click here to watch on YouTube Find and support Donna! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnalamb330/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DonnaLambSpeaks Substack: https://donnalamb.substack.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donna.lamb.528 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-lamb-295188144/ Website: https://donnalamb.com/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Following up our enlightening interview with Mitch Cunico of @Cult_Audit about his time as a leader within the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG), we are joined with him LIVE today to further dive into their recruiting process. Were they recruiting? What do they say? How do they approach college students? How can parents warn their kids? We’ll go behind the curtain into the “Letters to Mother” system and how personal information can create the appearance that “Mother” somehow knows what someone is thinking or struggling with. And what Mitch feels happens when a member begins questioning or leaves the church. Click here to watch on YouTube Watch our initial interview with Mitch Find and support Mitch! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cult_Audit/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/cult_audit/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Former high-ranking World Mission Society Church of God member Mitch Cunico (of @Cult_Audit ) reveals how a seemingly innocent Bible study pulled him into a South Korean high-control religious group that demanded relentless evangelizing, money, strict obedience, and eventually even control over his marriage. Mitch was matched with a Korean wife he barely knew, living at the church as pastoral staff, watching members’ private confessions allegedly be used to monitor them, and ultimately discovering information that shattered his belief in the organization. Click to watch on YouTube Find and support Mitch! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cult_Audit/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/cult_audit/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Dr. Christine Marie infiltrated the inner circle of polygamous cult leader Samuel Bateman, helping expose the horrific ab*se happening behind closed doors and ultimately contributing to his downfall. Now, just days after watching Bateman receive his final sentence in court, Christine joins us to reveal what it took to bring him down… and what it was like to finally see justice served. Click here to watch on YouTube Find and Support Christine! Website: http://christinemarie.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.christinemarie/ https://voicesfordignity.org/ Watch our initial interview with Dr. Christine Marie Watch our last live with Nomz and Makelle Watch our interview with Nomz Watch our interview with Makelle Part Two with Makelle Watch our full interview with Jude Bateman, Sam's sister Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Polygamous sect leader Samuel Bateman has been sentenced to a total of 74 years in prison. Yesterday an Arizona state judge handed down an additional 24-year prison sentence to be served consecutively after his 50-year federal prison sentence. Today we are joined LIVE with Naomi "Nomz" Bistline (Sam Bateman’s former 13th wife) who was at the hearing and gave an impact statement, and his former 22nd wife, Makelle Bistline, as they debrief us on exactly what happened. Click here to watch on YouTube Follow and support Nomz and Makelle! IG: @nomzia_b TT: @nomzia_b FB: https://www.facebook.com/NomziBistline IG: https://www.instagram.com/16_makelle/ TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@16makelle Watch our latest live with Dr. Christine Marie Watch our last live with Nomz and Makelle Watch our interview with Nomz Watch our interview with Makelle Part Two with Makelle Our interview with Dr. Christine Katas Watch our full interview with Jude Bateman, Sam's sister Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Explore my Hungryroot Digital Cookbook “Cult Classics” and get 40% off your first order plus a free item in every box for life at https://hungryroot.com/CULTFREE Amanda Rae returns for a disturbing deep dive into the alleged consequences of generations of incest within the polygamous Kingston Group, from miscarriages and birth defects to infertility and reproductive coercion. Amanda and Shelise examine how the group’s obsession with preserving its “pure” bloodline has impacted women and chiIdren—and why, despite mounting consequences, the practice continues Click here to watch on YouTube Watch Shelise on Amanda's channel Find and support Amanda! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAmandaRaeGrant TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@amanda.rae.grant IG: https://www.instagram.com/amandaraegrant/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

When two best friends are coerced to becoming sister wives to a false prophet, how does their friendship evolve? Did it survive the pressures of a household with over 20 other wives? Have they maintained a friendship after one of them helped put the false prophet behind bars? Makelle and Nomz return today for a special LIVE stream to answer all! Click here to watch on YouTube Follow and support Makelle and Nomz! IG: https://www.instagram.com/16_makelle/ TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@16makelle IG: @nomzia_b https://www.instagram.com/nomzia_b/ TT: @nomzia_b https://www.tiktok.com/@nomzia_b?lang=en FB: https://www.facebook.com/NomziBistline Watch our interview with Makelle (Sam's 22nd Wife) Part Two with Makelle Watch our interview with Nomz Our interview with Dr. Christine Katas Watch our full interview with Jude Bateman, Sam's sister Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

After being gr**med and coerced into becoming Sam Bateman’s 22nd wife, Makelle Bistline reveals what life was actually like inside his polygamous household—and how quickly the disturbing reality began to surface. As her doubts grew, Makelle secretly helped get information to Christine, eventually becoming part of the quiet resistance that helped expose Bateman and bring the FBI closer to his inner circle. Click here to watch on YouTube Watch our Part One with Makelle Watch our LIVE with Makelle & Nomz Watch our interview with Nomz Our interview with Dr. Christine Katas Follow and support Makelle! IG: https://www.instagram.com/16_makelle/ TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@16makelle Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

In this follow-up conversation, Sienna returns to share what’s changing inside the FLDS and the unexpected reasons some members are beginning to walk away. As Warren Jeffs’ daughter, she offers a rare insider perspective on what’s driving people to question the group, what makes leaving so complicated, and how life inside the FLDS continues to evolve. Click here to watch on YouTube Watch our initial interview with Sienna Find and support Sienna! Sienna is 12 weeks pregnant and is going to be a single mama. Support her with her Baby Registry :) Sienna’s art IG: https://www.instagram.com/papergardenarts Resources for leaving Polygamy & volunteer opportunities If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org Holding Out Help: https://holdingouthelp.org/ Short Creek Dream Center: https://www.shortcreekdreamcenter.org/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Raised in the FLDS with 3 mothers and 27 siblings, Makelle grew up believing extreme restrictions, poverty, and obedience to religious authority were simply normal. That foundation made her vulnerable when self-proclaimed prophet Sam Bateman entered her family’s world, even as she questioned his teachings and was horrified to discover he was “marrying” underage girls. As Bateman gained control over her family—eventually marrying several of Makelle’s sisters and one of her mothers—Makelle continued resisting him and secretly shared information that ultimately exposed what was happening inside the group. Click here to watch on YouTube Watch our interview with Nomz Our interview with Dr. Christine Katas Follow and support Makelle! IG: https://www.instagram.com/16_makelle/ TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@16makelle Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Sienna shares what it was like growing up as one of Warren Jeffs' children inside the FLDS, from the 2008 Texas raid and years of strict control to the fear, isolation, and manipulation that shaped her childhood. She opens up about the moment she began questioning everything… Click here to watch on YouTube Find and support Sienna! Sienna’s art IG: https://www.instagram.com/siennahazej/ Resources for leaving Polygamy & volunteer opportunities If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org Holding Out Help Short Creek Dream Center Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Lilia Tarawa—granddaughter of Gloriavale founder Neville Cooper—shares her perspective on the new Paramount+ documentary Devotion, which offers unprecedented access inside the isolated New Zealand religious community. While she appreciates the rare footage and the opportunity to hear from current members, Lilia argues that the documentary fails to present the full reality of Gloriavale by omitting critical historical context, survivor experiences, and the systemic ab*se that has shaped the community for decades. Drawing from her own upbringing inside the group, she explains how communal living, isolation, rigid gender roles, and absolute obedience created an environment where manipulation and control became normalized. The conversation then examines Gloriavale's culture of secrecy, forgiveness, and institutional protection of ab*se. Lilia challenges the documentary's balanced approach, arguing that presenting current leaders' perspectives without fully addressing their roles in enabling abuse risks minimizing the harm suffered by survivors. Click here to watch on YouTube Watch our initial interviews with Lilia Live with Lilia Follow and support Lilia! IG: https://www.instagram.com/liliatarawa/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@LiliaTarawa Book: “Daughter of Gloriavale: My Life in a Religious Cult” For inquires, email: media@LiliaTarawa.com Podcast - Brandbreaker with Lilia Tarawa: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/brandbreaker-with-lilia-tarawa/id1859810768 Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Bonnie Piesse shares the deeply personal story of how a successful acting and music career in Hollywood left her feeling spiritually empty, ultimately making her vulnerable to the promises of NXIVM. She was introduced to the organization by her future husband, Mark Vicente. What initially appeared to be an empowering self-improvement community instead slowly eroded her confidence through constant criticism, psychological manipulation, and a culture that encouraged members to relentlessly search for their own flaws while elevating Keith Raniere as the ultimate authority. Trusting her own intuition became the first step toward recognizing the group's darker reality, while Mark Vicente's willingness to believe her experiences helped spark the chain of events that eventually exposed NXIVM to the world. Click here to watch on YouTube Follow and support Bonnie! IG: https://www.instagram.com/BonniemPiesse https://www.instagram.com/yourquantumlife/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

After our powerful conversation with former NXIVM insider and filmmaker Mark Vicente about The Narcissist's Playbook, we're sitting down with him once again for a special live discussion to go even deeper. This time, we're moving beyond understanding the mindset of narcissists to explore what happens when they're challenged. Why do narcissists react so intensely when confronted? What fears drive their rage, retaliation, and manipulation? How can survivors safely stand up to them—or should they at all? Click here to watch on YouTube Mark’s original interview Find and support Mark! Donate to & watch “Narcissist’s Playbook”: https://www.narcissistsplaybook.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Filmmaker and former NXIVM member Mark Vicente returns to discuss his new documentary, The Narcissist's Playbook, using both his experience exposing NXIVM and years of research into narcissistic personalities to explain why destructive leaders across cults, abusive relationships, and even public life often follow the same psychological pattern. Drawing from his own journey through multiple spiritual movements before becoming one of the key figures who helped bring down Keith Raniere, Mark explores how idealistic, empathetic people are especially vulnerable to manipulation. He reflects on the emotional aftermath of discovering just how calculated Keith Raniere's deception had been and how that realization reshaped his understanding of evil. Click here to watch on YouTube Find and support Mark! Donate to & watch “Narcissist’s Playbook”: https://www.narcissistsplaybook.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/ Our Costa Rica Vacation has sold out! Join our waitlist in case of any cancellations Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon **Disclaimer: This podcast provides a platform for guests to share their personal experiences and opinions. The views expressed are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or producers. Any allegations discussed are unverified and represent personal accounts only. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. The podcast assumes no legal responsibility for statements made by guests.** See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .