Her Horrific Childhood in the CHILDREN OF GOD Sex Cult ft. Daniella Mestyanek Young

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**CONTENT WARNING: Mentions of child SA/physical ab*se, child trafficking and s*x**
Please listen with care. This episode is very heavy and potentially triggering. This is, however, an important story to tell. Daniella Mestyanek Young was born and raised in the Children of God sex cult, who's goal was to raise sexually liberated children with little to no secular education. This is the story of her childhood behind the walls of the compounds all over the world. The next episode, we will focus on how she escaped, adjusted and joined the army, only to be re-traumatized all over again.
Support Shelise
Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast
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Venmo @sheliseann
Daniella on social!
TikTok: @daniellamestyanekyoung
Website: www.uncultureyourself.com/
Amazon: "Uncultured: A Memoir" amzn.to/3BPigEK
Chapter Markers
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:17 Thanks Sunny for your comment!
00:01:30 TW: Child SA throughout episode (will be time stamped)
00:01:51 TW: Child SA- Larry King Live 1993
00:03:49 Check out her book! "Uncultured: A Memoir"
00:06:28 Her new degree!!!
00:08:43 History of The Children of God Cult
00:10:25 Her grandfather met Satan and chose to join
00:12:28 "The Sacred Assumption" Ends justify the means
00:14:48 Mormon purity culture vs COG "love is sex" culture
00:16:28 What happens when a group tries to control sex
00:18:55 TW: R*pe- Comic book and a dangerous game
00:20:19 The adults being ok with child SA
00:21:49 TW: Child SA- How her mother's teen pregnancy shaped the cult
00:24:01 They re-brand, change their name and become child trafficking business
00:24:31 An "End Times Rap" with Daniella as a child
00:27:25 Did Daniella's mom know it was wrong?
00:29:23 The rules and environment she had to grow up with
00:30:57 TW: Physical child abuse
00:31:50 Taking back the narrative and profiting!
00:33:47 A punishing game of telephone & curiosity
00:35:39 Daniella making stellar parenting choices! Breaking the cycle
00:37:06 The "do-over" baby- Her mother getting another chance
00:39:32 TW: Child SA- Did the new female leader really want to make it safer for children?
00:42:49 All the places Daniella lived- educated herself to freedom
00:46:06 One of Daniella's first happy memories with mom
00:48:23 How has it been unwinding the programming?
00:52:22 TW: Child SA- Re-writing her virginity story
00:55:47 Coming to America aka "Babylon the Whore", being sent to Mexico, then escaping back to the US
01:02:35 Enrolling in school for the FIRST time, as a high schooler
01:04:38 It's not so easily "Cult vs Not Cult"
01:06:17 Patron Q: Any physical issues persisting?
01:09:41 Linda, Listen
Find Shelise on Social media!
Instagram @cultstoconsciousness
/ cultstoconsiousness
Host Instagram @sheliseann
/ sheliseann
TikTok @cults.to.consciousness
/ cults.to.consciousness
Twitter @cultstocon
/ cultstocon
Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara
*Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.*

Опубликовано:

25 июн 2024

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Комментарии : 938

@preciousonejewel Год назад

woah.. "purity culture and pedophaelia culture are two sides of the same coin" ive never heard that but its so so so true!

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Right?!

@mylifewithmarmalade4624 Год назад

Right?! Mind Blown!

@lharris4118 Год назад

Sounds like Maga republicans! They are obsessed with both

@r3b3lutions Год назад

@@lharris4118 That's where my mind went, too. They are obsessed with controlling others' bodies.

@Lucifersfursona Год назад

This. We have examples in cults and out of cults. Purity culture generates pedophiles and ensures new victims by keeping people away from their own sexual and bodily autonomy.

@Viteaification Год назад

its just wild to me that grown adults would allow a grown man to do that to their kids. just him suggesting that would have sent me into a fit of rage

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Absolutely! It just goes to show when your environment is 100 percent controlled and you’re indoctrinated to have shifty morals, your brain doesn’t necessary throw up all the red flags it should. Or if it does, you’re shamed for having doubts and feel something is wrong with you. While editing this episode, I cried for my children that don’t even exist yet. Crying for the pain I so desperately want to shield them from. And crying for my own child SA pain that reared it’s ugly head again. The world can be so dark. That’s why I want to shed light on it. Thank you for your support ❤️

@leahflower9924 Год назад

Ever heard of the Catholic church sorry had to say it

@MsNooneinparticular Год назад

The grown women/moms engaged directly in it too. See: the Davidito Letters. 😓🤬

@corablah9809 Год назад

It's a big joke to claim your a victim because you chose AS A GROWN ADULT to rape a 10 year old because your pastor told you to💀💀

@kellyreilly-robinson2130 Год назад

@@leahflower9924 I survived that it almost destroyed me but I am finally finding my own joy and control of me

@LYAveiga Год назад

I'm so excited you did this interview with her. I was also born and raised in the Children of God cult but mostly stayed in Brazil, where I recently exposed the cult on TikTok in Portuguese and it's been in insane frenzy ever since. I'm very grateful for your podcast and your insights and guests for sharing their stories. It's so important for our healing process

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Hi LYA! Thank you for sharing. I’m so sorry you also had a childhood in this cult. Thanks for sharing your story as well!!

@kaleahcollins4567 Год назад

@Cults to Consciousness I thought you was LDS not Children of Gd.

@echitester Год назад

@@kaleahcollins4567think the also refers to the guest, who was raised in CoG, NOT the host, who was raised LDS. since the OP said "also," which would be in reference to the guest, it makes sense that the host would respond with also. as in "I'm sorry you were also raised in the cult my guest was raised in." hope that helps.

@lisapeters7191 8 месяцев назад

@@kaleahcollins4567Cult(s) plural

@nussknacker9827 8 месяцев назад

Thank you so much for exposing them Many people like me don't have tiktok and I hope one day you'll share all of your content on RU-vid, too Lots of love and healing to you, 💕

@artbygilik 10 месяцев назад

I read about this cult over 20 years ago in a River Phoenix biography. The Phoenix kids were often singing on the streets and basking when they were very young. Hist parents pulled their family out when they finally realized how bad the cult was and changed their last name to Phoenix as a symbol of a rebirth. So sad what happened to him

@themedia1271 7 месяцев назад

Okay the fact that the Phoenix family was in this cult explains a lot.

@Exiled.New.Yorker 6 месяцев назад

I wish they would speak out. No way that cult is unrelated to River being unalive.

@MrDeelightful Год назад

Holy crap, I'm at the part around 36min where she mentions her daughter and never telling her "Because I said so", that hit really hard. Daniella, just from that one anecdote it's clear how you've broken the cycle. Good on you.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Absolutely!!!

@emmaray9917 Год назад

I agree! As a parent we are meant to explain why we are doing what we are doing to explain the social world we live in. It is about control when we say ‘because I said so’ and it’s so disrespectful to the child.

@MrDeelightful Год назад

@@emmaray9917 Agreed, and what you said about the lack of respect that shows the child is so important. I didn't grow up in a cult of any kind but I got told that a lot as a kid. If you want respect you have to give it too

@buradi90 Год назад

I personally strive to avoiding telling my son because I said so, which is something I grew up hearing. I explain my reasoning to him. I also ask his opinion on religious topics and what he believes.

@sarahmoffett1296 5 месяцев назад

That got me, too. I was abused and controlled as a child and this is something I have never said to my kids. I couldn't even make the words come out. I have always wanted to explain and treat them like little humans

@andie3448 Год назад

I 99% understand the military being seen as a controlled group/cult. My brother is a high rank in the army and I recently had a conversation with him about the Vanessa Guillen case and other recent victims... His first sentence was "that's what happens when you decided to mess around with people you aren't supposed to mess around with" like... Okay she was having an affair so she warranted her death???? Make it make sense. I've never thought of my brother as a predator until now. He fought me about it and claimed there's nothing you can do, and that if you make poor decisions poor activities follow bla blah as if 2 people torturing and killing someone is justifiable. He also said he does his best trying to back track what he said but I'm convinced he's brainwashed. It's really sad idk if he's a victim or suspect anymore.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

YES! Andie I am editing part 2 now and she literally mentions this exact thing and referenced Vanessa. She says it’s one of the main reasons she decided to write her book! Your conversation with your brother feels almost verbatim to things Daniella talks about in her book. It’s truly mind blowing getting a glimpse into what it’s like from a woman’s perspective. Part two coming tomorrow!

@andie3448 Год назад

@@CultstoConsciousness oh wow, yeah this really solidifies my fears. But in a positive way. I know I'm not going crazy thinking what I was told was nuts. It truly is the people you would never assume. I understand the goal in the military is to break you down and rebuild you. Sounds culty to me.

@PrincessJamiG Год назад

@Andie - it's possible for a person to become a victim as well as a perpetrator, especially in group-think. Complicity is easiest in high-demand organizations. Your feelings are totally valid. I hope you are doing okay.

@More13Feen Год назад

As a swiss woman, we do have a military and some americans hold us up as a positive example for no guncontroll (fals btw), and it looks a lot like brainwashing and a nation wide cult of sending sons to other countries to kill and get killed in honour of the fictional god of "the american dream of freedom".

@andie3448 Год назад

@@PrincessJamiG I just hope my brothers decides to come around eventually. Highly unexpected

@HollieTash Год назад

As soon as I saw Daniella knitting without looking as she's discussing this I knew...a queen.

@lycianempire Год назад

Also, what a way to soothe anxieties while discussing such horrible experiences.

@HollieTash Год назад

@@lycianempire definitely, busy hands keep it moving

@user-wj3yr7xr2f Год назад

My ADHD thought that was a really good way to stay focused on the conversation. I should do that too when I talk to people.

@SuzyQ-vg3tc Год назад

@@user-wj3yr7xr2f She has said that is why she does it, to focus and to self-soothe ♥👑

@TheRyelandfamily Год назад

Same. I noticed she was doing something. But until she lifted her hook❤.

@heatherangel101 Год назад

I love the way your channel is evolving to include people from so many different backgrounds! Props to you for handling so many heavy topics!

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Thank you, Heather! Diversity was always the goal, but I just had more access to certain people from certain groups early on. We are so so happy to branch out and love any and all suggestions for guests! I appreciate the support. This one was especially difficult for me to produce ❤️

@annkupke4263 10 месяцев назад

Yes diversity is great. So many religions have people who did bad. I was raised Southern Baptist. And the Baptist church they closed many of them cause of church leaders and elders of the church. My stepmother raised me and now that I am older and started attending a different church and going to counseling I broke away from that toxic

@purlmonster Год назад

Thank you for bringing us this interview, Shelise! Daniella's story is horrible, and seeing her now is wonderful. As an absolute aside, when I saw her knitting project at about 53 minutes, I squealed a bit. Knitting can be so comforting

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Love that!! I dont know how she does it but it’s super impressive! She says it helps her relax and think. #tanglefree

@Joy20712 Год назад

I'm only twenty minutes into this podcast, this story is literally insane and I just went and ordered her book, uncultured. I can't wait for it to arrive. As a survivor of abuse as a child, recovery is linear and having brave ppl like who come on your channel and you as well, definitely help in the healing journey. Thank you for being brave and sharing these stories and expanding our knowledge.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Thank you for sharing that, Kacey. I’m so happy to hear it’s helpful in your journey. These types of interviews are definitely hard for me, but they are so important.

@annkupke4263 10 месяцев назад

It is so very helpful in healing. You are helping other survivors

@annkupke4263 10 месяцев назад

@kyyyyyyyyym365 8 месяцев назад

Same I was on audible buying a copy 15 mins or so in 😂

@patricequinn-ee1iy 7 месяцев назад

This conversation about what cults REALLY are in principle and WHO and HOW they’re formed is so necessary!

@fionasimagination Год назад

I didn’t grow up in a cult but I was under the care of organised pedophiles and went through serious grooming while they sexually abused me for multiple years from the age of two. I still have a lot of the same problems and struggles that the people you interview that grew up in cults seem to have. It is equally helpful and painful to listen to this. But I believe it feels good not to be so alone with these issues…

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

I’m so so so sorry to hear that, Fiona. As a fellow child SA survivor, I see you and I empathize with you. Thank you for sharing and for allowing yourself to take up space and have a voice ❤️🙌

@itssofluffy1963 Год назад

The world has some sick people in it...I have a story as well and the memory never goes away no matter how old u get..it's a life long cut cause I can never feel normal I mean like others and u can't enjoy or understand the feelings "normal" people have..hope ur doing ok or at least trucking through...

@kaleahcollins4567 Год назад

We need international laws of capital corporal punishment for all people who engage in such acts( physical &sexual behaviors with any minor . )

@ajalikeasia 7 месяцев назад

That is despicable that you were harmed so deeply, there are no words. Wishing you the absolute best in your life and on your journey to healing and that you find true moments of love/joy along the way. ♥️

@KKonYouTube Год назад

It's so amazing to hear how she was born into horrors of a cult and today is so humble, successful, educated, smart, driven, strong and personable!! What an inspiration for so many different groups of people on so many levels!

@advocacynaccountablity Год назад

I've felt the same way about "purity" culture since I was very young. It always felt super creepy.

@tombrewsaugh1399 11 месяцев назад

My wife wasn't in a cult but an abusive household. She lived through mental and physical abuse before the sexual abuse started. She thought she was ok until after our second child was born and the post partum blues set in triggering the flashbacks. We also tried to never answer our daughters questions with " because I said so" or " you're too young to know that". If we didn't know the answer or how to explain it in an age appropriate way we looked up resources. There has been some rough moments in our relationship but through therapy, both individually and as a couple, we have made it 43 years together and raised two independent, free thinking, open minded, and living daughters.

@CultstoConsciousness 11 месяцев назад

Thank you for sharing and for breaking the toxic cycle. 🙌

@emileeoneil710 Год назад

I can’t wait for part 2. It’s fascinating that she was able to see how culty the army is while in it.

@chynnaalyssia Год назад

I didn't grow up in a cult, but I was raised in a very toxic, abusive household. When Daniella explained her triggers as a parent, witnessing beautiful moments with her daughter and struggling, knowing she was deprived of a loving childhood, that really got to me. I am a mother of 4 and I find myself still struggling to heal from my traumatic childhood. There are so many moments in my life as a mother that I see how happy my children are, and it makes me mourn the childhood I so badly wish I had. All I ever wanted was stability and love. That's what all kids want and deserve. But I am so grateful to be breaking the cycle of abuse and raising my kids the way I wish I had been raised. Daniella is incredibly brave for sharing her story and moving forward with so much love in her heart. She is truly inspiriational. I am buying her audiobook today!

@ambersprague7570 10 месяцев назад

Similarly, I was raised in an abusive household, and it started young when my stepbrother sexually assaulted me when I was 3, and when I told my stepmom, she slapped me and told me I’d never speak such heinous things ever again. I recently had reason to believe I would see my stepmother and stepbrother in a scenario that I was unwilling to avoid (a funeral of someone I loved dearly), and was talking with my sister about my concerns with it - she has a 3yo daughter. It had been so long since I felt truly triggered by what happened to me, but taking to my sister and hearing my niece, who was the same age I was when I was abused, talking in the background just rocked something in me that hadn’t been disturbed for quite some time. I did end up seeing them at the funeral, but they avoided me, and I made the decision to spend my day as though I was unaware of their presence. I felt powerful.

@nedsanders Год назад

What a difficult story. I'm so glad she rose above this tremendous monstrosity She should never have had to go through this horrible experience. What an inspiration !!

@maggielee1870 Год назад

This is the first video I've watched of this channel. I will never understand how someone can look at your innocent child and pass them off to grown men.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

It’s awful. Beyond words

@betsybabf748 27 дней назад

Even beyond cults, in the age of the internet and widely spread information, we are better seeing the numbers of those willing to sexualize children in this world. Even with the numbers we see, knowing there are so many more hidden, the large amount of perpetrators is downright frightening. In years past we thought of it as only a few sick individuals would have any sexual attraction to children, and shockingly, that is not the case. It is a horrific human behavior we have to understand more and work to fix it and stop it proactively, not just fix the damage after the abuse is done.

@hexonyou Год назад

i have nowhere near the experience that anyone from the Children of God cult have had, but I truly empathize with having a child who is so like you and seeing them thrive in a way that you never were able to but wanted so much for them. My son and I are so much alike that sometimes all I can do is laugh because I couldn't believe so much of our personalities could be handed down genetically; he's weird and charming and wonderful. Seeing him be himself, have a real friend group, feel comfortable liking the things he likes and dressing/controlling his appearance in the ways that are comfortable for him... seeing this kid with a very similar neurodivergent mix as myself being able to comfortably move through school and the world because he has full support from the people behind him. It is incredibly healing even when sometimes it's also triggering and confronting of the things I was hurt by or missed out on. Good luck in the future Daniella, and thank you so much for sharing your story here today as well as with your book.

@annaandre9131 Год назад

That is so sweet! He's lucky to have you 😊

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

That’s so beautiful about your son. Thank you so much for sharing that. He’s lucky to have you!❤️

@troismoutonsetuntigre5988 11 месяцев назад

This is one of the continuous joys of my life too - watching my kids move through the world without fear, watching them being in their bodies without shame, watching them make friends without any hesitation, and that they come to me knowing I love them and they love me and not because they are forced to.

@JazzyTimeLearning Год назад

My ex boyfriend grew up in this cult … he ended up taking his life a few years after we split and dealt with crazy demons his whole life. It’s amazing to see someone from the Family to be thriving

@MrProbstandrew 2 месяца назад

yeah, sadly the amount the amount of us who do that is preety high.. its just messed up on so many levels.. at least she here has now got here mother and family, and her mother prolly understands what happened, and isnt in "denial"..

@veevee306 Год назад

I was sexually abused and trafficked by my father as a child, and I relate very much to this speaker and downloaded her book. My mother was also sexually abused as a child and willingly protected my dad. I think the most painful thing for me is that it was "just" a family thing. Nobody else was in the abuse with me--my brother was spared. It's a very lonely feeling and it helps to be able to relate to others.

@michelleblose226 Год назад

❤

@marygard4608 Год назад

Please know you are not alone in this, and many great organizations exist to help. Trust your gut-it never lies.

@annkupke4263 10 месяцев назад

As a survivor, my counselor stated that when you grow up in abuse as your mother did. She assumed that it was normal. Which it was not. Or that females were expected to do but not males. Hence, that is why your brother was spared. I was also told it is neither good or bad it is what it is. Just break the cycle. Talking about it and helping others to break free. I got to the point where I moved away from toxic family and I try to help a sibling. She has not dealt with the abuse and she tried buying her kids love. She also made the biggest mistake. She let my stepmother help raise her kids. They barely want anything to do with her and now she is estranged from my stepmother. One of her kids is waking up to my stepmother narcissistic ways through his baby momma. His younger brother is living elsewhere but the grandmother is financially supported him.

@sidstovell2177 8 месяцев назад

Bah! So sorry!!

@spirited6086 6 месяцев назад

Does your guest see a similarity with Trumpism? Does she see Trumpism as a cult?

@ryrify Год назад

I dated a guy who had grown up in this cult. He and his siblings were all damaged but in such a deep way it was impossible for me to understand the complexity at the time. I had no idea how horrific it really was and I cannot believe what those kids must have gone through.

@odapunkt Год назад

For someone who was raped since age four, I feel like the bladder problem has something to do with that. I have read about the changed anatomy from sexual abuse

@brenda121143 Год назад

I hope you recover I pray that God will help you

@pinkpugginz 11 месяцев назад

it seriously does cause permanent physical damage.

@elspethmoon2980 11 месяцев назад

Also that kind of trauma can cause either too frequent emptying of bladder/bowels or too rarely doing so because it subconsciously helps victims feel safe

@starlingswallow 11 месяцев назад

Wait, wait, wait....are you saying that bladder issues are a sign of sexual abuse? I have a friend who was in a children's hospital for 6 months, she said it wasn't good....and she doesn't remember a lot of it....but she has serious bladder issues.😢

@annkupke4263 10 месяцев назад

It cause me to not be able to conceive. I was s.b by several family members. Then emotionally and physically abused by my stepmother

@roxannelilymaria2581 Год назад

Recently found your channel. Binged hours upon hours. You are a fantastic podcast host and such an empathetic ear for your guests. Truly enjoy this content and thats before I get started on how much importance these conversations hold!! Thank you!

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Crying over here in the comment section 🥹🥲 you don’t know how much that means to me. Thank you for your support and kind words ❤️🙏

@birtsmomtoo Год назад

Ditto.

@gwendolineconis9628 Год назад

Shelise and Daniella, thank you so much for having the courage to "come out of the closet" and discuss these difficult topics that affect so many of us. I got a lot of validation of my own experience in reading Uncultured and recommend it. Well-written and a page turner although some scenes are hard to stomach. Shelise, cannot wait to read your memoir! I am so proud of both of you ladies. Your work is valued.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Thank you Gwendoline!! I super appreciate that! And I’m so glad you could find validation in her story. I need to get back to writing! ❤️

@astridcrewel7678 Год назад

I grew up in a cult where I had to take on a mother role from a very early age and multiple responsibilities such as dropping out of school at 14 to support my mother. (Who was fine, she just didn’t wish to work) Now I’m a constant overachiever with a huge imposter syndrome complex that I’m working on. I grew up a people pleaser because growing up if I didn’t do everything and do it perfect, I was shunned and just a problem. Being able to realize the signs of toxic environments starting to develop has saved my life several times now.

@sarahmoffett1296 5 месяцев назад

I didn't grow up in a cult, but had an abusive and neglectful childhood. My mom checked out emotionally when I was 13 so I became mom of my much younger siblings until we got out of that home. She went back, but I stayed away and got emancipated when I was 15. I've also always been an overachiever and hyper independent. You really made me think about how that happened. I've only had myself to depend on so I always thought there was no option to fail.

@nickywal Год назад

This cult never stops being one of the most horrifying things to ever exist, I can't even begin to imagine willingly handing over a 3 year old child to be abused, but of course the parents would often have been victims themselves. It doesn't excuse it though

@danielroselle3625 11 месяцев назад

The parents were not victims. They willingly joined and subjected their children to this.

@nickywal 11 месяцев назад

@@danielroselle3625 The thing is no one joins cults when they're happy, the recruiters are trained to prey on people at their most vulnerable. But once you harm others or enable harm, you stop being a victim imo

@danielroselle3625 11 месяцев назад

@@nickywal where does your cult expertise come from?

@jacquelineleitch7050 10 месяцев назад

Horror

@annkupke4263 10 месяцев назад

Sometimes the children were born into it and grew up rational it was normal of the abuse. But now I realize that it is not okay. The abuser sadly, most of them passed away. I have an Aunt that one of the perpetrators has and she gave houses to her kids but the other victims nothing.

@pageypie Год назад

The way I literally dropped my jaw when I heard “largest high schools in the Houston area” and the years and wondered why this episodes guest looked so familiar. If part 2 confirms what I’m thinking I may have gone to high school with this guest!

@starlingswallow 11 месяцев назад

Cool! Let us know if you did!

@1957Moonmaiden Год назад

Shelise, I just discovered your channel last week and I am HOOKED! I love your thoughtful and compassionate moderation and your sensitivity toward your guests, and your listeners. I'm hooked. Thank you for your compassionate heart and intelligent mind, and thank you for sharing those things with all of us. You're amazing.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Hi Kaila! Aww thank you so much! 🥰 your kind words mean a lot to me. I do my best to provide a safe space for the guest so I’m really happy my intent shines through. ❤️ welcome to C2C!

@zenobiaboyd4246 Год назад

Daniellas book is excellent , moving, disturbing and honest. She’s a survivor and I admire her so much, and want to look after her heart. You are amazing.

@RUPrepping 8 месяцев назад

Wow...another 5 star interview!!! Thank you for bringing awareness to these unimaginable heartbreaking topics. I'm flabbergasted, sad & thankful. You are gifted at interviewing such sensitive topics.

@denize7139 11 месяцев назад

I am doing a rewatch on this episode because I have been thinking about it for two months. I have gotten so much healing and inspiration to continue my healing journey from this video. Thank you Daniella so much for your story. Thank you Shalice for compassionately leading us through her story.

@metalcatmom5891 Год назад

What an absolute bad ass! My eyes literally popped open when she said all cults have comics. I still have the comic from the evangelical fundamentalist background I left. I'm not sure why, it is tucked away in the Bible I haven't yet disgarded and I'm not quite sure why I have either of them still.

@carolfulton-kennedy2482 Год назад

Just now ordered your book Daniella. What a remarkable woman you are 💜 Shelise, your channel! I am addicted to watching these incredible stories. Thankyou so much for educating me 🩵

@renwhit100 Год назад

A good friend of mine and his girlfriend were both in the military, and he told me once that at least among the unit he was in, the phrase "drink the kool-aid" was used very regularly as an *encouragement* or to chastise people who were being insubordinate. I haven't been able to get that out of my mind since. he was the first person i ever heard directly compare the military and cults, so hearing it from someone who survived one as gruesome as this is really powerful. super excited to read her next book when it comes out!

@sngray11 Год назад

Thank you for having Daniella onto discuss her experiences in the Children of God cult. Even though I didn’t grow up in a cult, I too endured CSA, SA, and r-word when I was growing up.

@ExperiencingLiminality Год назад

Seeing people given such an amazing platform to talk about their high demand/control experiences and the lasting effects it has on your mind and body is so empowering. I love the space you offer your guests to just be their true selves and tell their stories as they are. Shelise you are an incredible presence/conduit for people to explore their traumas and further their healing ❤ continue to remember to look after yourself as well ❤

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Thank you so so much Hunter! That means a lot! I straight up had an emotional breakdown while editing this last night. But I’m grateful for the opportunity to look at my own traumas and learn how to better take care of myself and the areas that need healing. These stories need to be told, and hearing so much validation for that is proof. Thank you!❤️❤️

@ExperiencingLiminality Год назад

You’re doing amazing! But don’t forget that we will be here even if you ever need a break! You are Important ❤

@notbydesign3316 Год назад

I enjoy that you don't rush your conversations, even just to celebrate your guest's accomplishments. Your empathy and humanity (in my mind) is what makes you and your content shine! And a serious side note: I'm grateful for you not censoring your videos. I know the algorithm can be punishing when talking about serious topics like sexual assault, trafficking etc. But I struggle to take content seriously when they beat around the bush to get a point across. If I were more fortunate I'd be so glad to support your Patreon ❤

@notbydesign3316 Год назад

For now I'll have to pay with likes and engagement 😂

@aprilwashington3150 Год назад

I'm so grateful people have a safe space to share their stories, heal, and prevent others from getting preyed on.

@jojowynne233 Год назад

Shelise, I know I’ve watched Daniella before in an interview but you really do have something special. Whether it’s the female aspect, shared cult experience, I don’t know but your ability outshines others. Keep up the amazing work ❤️

@awnage Год назад

I ran into the "Children of God" when I lived in Russia in the late 90s. I still have some of their pamphlets in Russian. Thankfully most of the college students they were proselytizing to recognized it as a cult.

@MartineReed Год назад

I hope you have since spoken to the FBI.

@issecret1 Год назад

Yes, I'm sure the FBI will try to help the people stuck in a cult in Russia

@MartineReed Год назад

@@issecret1 Dense. You are dense. It has nothing to do with “rescuing” anybody. But I’m not going to explain it to some rando smash and grab on YT. Have a nice day.

@danielroselle3625 11 месяцев назад

Yup. My brother was there in Rostov in the late 90s.

@danihawkinspreissler8017 Год назад

so informative. thank you for this video. You are so respectful and always have great questions Shelise. Looking forward to part 2. I've added "Uncultured" to my reading list!

@danihawkinspreissler8017 9 месяцев назад

I just bought your book "Uncultured". can't wait to read this one AND the next one that you're still working on, Daniela. Really incredible story. thank you for sharing!

@cl5470 Год назад

I was the logical kid in a very strict Irish Catholic family. Also a born athiest. I remember when I was about 5 and started to understand death. I went to my grandmother and asked what happens when you die? She gave the standard "you go to heaven". I had already figured out that Santa was fake and figured the god stuff was along the same lines so I said "No, but what REALLY happens?" She had no response. I remember that the concept of God never made sense. I have a mother who has a mother and so on, how could God not have an origin like I did if I was supposed to be made in his image? It never added up for me. I didn't admit to being an athiest until I was a teenager. It did not go over well. Almost all of my family has since left the church after my grandparents passed. It turns out that I wasn't alone in having doubts about our religion, I was just the only one who couldn't keep it to myself. Yeah, I am also not neurotypical as I learned years later when my son was born with autism. Interesting how much we all have in common, even if the controlling organization is different. The control tactics are all the same. I was also told I should be a lawyer. 😂

@miaomiaochan Год назад

I was told NOT to be a lawyer, and the reasoning was that I was too sensitive and prone to angry emotional outbursts when I perceived injustice. It turned out I had ADHD, which made me much more prone to emotional dysregulation and justice sensitivity.

@Katie2986 Год назад

I was raised (American) Irish-Catholic too, but luckily from the Liberation Theology and Catholic Worker perspective. Eventually we all left the church aside from my Dad, my Mom and I over women’s issues.

@lethaldream50 Год назад

i was "born agnostic" in a catholic family which is almost the same thing (i'm an atheist now, but as a child i felt like i didn't know enough to feel like there was no higher power specifically, i just knew that the bible didnt make any sense and church and catholic school didnt make sense) it seems we have some things in common. before they found out i'm an atheist, my parents once said that when i was really young (like 5) i was "so smart" for asking what happens when we die. i don't remember asking that but it sounds like me. what you said about logic and santa claus reminded me of something i do remember though: i was 6 and my slightly older cousins were over and we were sitting in a room alone at xmas and we started having a debate about whether santa claus was real. i didn't believe in the bible because it was stories but i did believe in "facts books" i literally was a kid who read dictionaries and encyclopedias "for fun"... i had been given this book for xmas that i immediately read that was a hardback book that had "facts" about santa's journey in it or something and it had "real quotes" from people who worked at air traffic control towers or NASA or something in it talking about how they accommodate santa in it and because it was presented in this science-y way the same way that encyclopedias were and i wasn't young enough to have realized that science or "professionals" can lie or be wrong so i got really exasperated with my cousins for "not believing the evidence" ...... .... which is both funny but also pretty allegorical for a lot of religious brainwashing stuff. and very weird too lol

@RockLibertyWarrior 7 месяцев назад

"Born atheist" nothing to brag about. So you consider yourself a "skeptic" OK, "skeptic" can you explain to me how something came out of nothing? No "skeptic" or "atheist" has been able to, they either stammer or mutter under their breath that "science hasn't figured it out yet" or they call me names. No "skeptic" has been able to do that. Under "atheist" regimes like Stalin and Mao millions of people we're slaughtered, what do you say to that, skeptic? 🙄

@Bachconcertos 3 месяца назад

My Catholic grammer school was loving and normal. Thank God.

@deec6535 Год назад

I grew up in a doomsday cult, nothing like cult described here, for sure. I later escaped and joined the Navy, then was attached with Marines. I would comfortable say both of those are cults. I recall the sad realization at RTC after completing Battle Stations realizing that the music was designed to play on our emotions and bond us to the group. It’s a cult.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Oh wow! Thank you for your perspective on that. Part 2 coming tomorrow ❤️

@Pippins666 8 месяцев назад

Navy veteran here. The "Barack's mentality" is essential in warfare - and that is the basic premise of the armed forces - it is what wins battles when the odds are against you, it's what can keep you or your mates alive. I had not previously considered the similarities between that culture and a cult, and it is quite correct. The problem comes when there is no war, but the cult behaviour continues. The police have it in spadefuls! Which is why there is so much corruption, so many unnecessary civilian deaths, all covered up by the police cult - all for one and one for all. We have seen it time and again in the UK, and I can't believe the US is any different.

@janahcoaching 9 месяцев назад

It's great to see people who endured so much pain, actually thrive, educate and take control. Of course some trauma you might never completely heal from, but being able to experience joy and happiness, learn and evolve is already a huge win. Love this lady.

@SpanishBarbie96 8 месяцев назад

I’m new here and I just want to say thank you for your dedication to these victims to getting their stories out! This has made so many things click for me. Hope it can open up other people’s eyes!

@marcil9516 11 месяцев назад

I watched this video on Thursday. It is Sunday and I have already found and finished the audiobook and holy shit. Daniella went through some truly horrific shit for decades, and still decided to use her voice to help other people. I'm genuinely amazed and inspired by this woman.

@CultstoConsciousness 11 месяцев назад

Incredible, isn’t it? 🥲

@marcil9516 11 месяцев назад

@@CultstoConsciousness genuinely ❤️

@annaandre9131 Год назад

Now i wanna see part 2. That was interesting. She's lucky she's so intelligent because she was able to see through this madness and escape.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Goal is to release it tomorrow!

@robyn7287 10 месяцев назад

So much trauma to overcome. You’ve educated yourself and found a way to express your emotions and feelings which is obviously helping. However while talking I notice you appear stressed and I hope this interview hasn’t triggered you too much and made your next few weeks difficult. You are so inspiring and I wish you great success for your future.😊

@jamesgoines4635 11 месяцев назад

Man this episode is so hard to get through. You two are very strong for talking about this I don’t think I ever could.

@sibyllehartmann3417 8 месяцев назад

Shelise is an incredible interviewer! The best! She is super smart, empathetic and I can’t say enough about her talents.

@CultstoConsciousness 8 месяцев назад

How kind of you! Thank you so much for your support 🥰

@smalls9852 Год назад

Such an incredible guest. She is so well spoken.

@daniellegeervander1200 11 месяцев назад

This is sooooo very important to put out there! This is so clarifying, scary! Thank you for making this content! So very interesting.

@raylawler13 Год назад

Another fantastic video. I'm excited to read your books, Daniella! Thank you for doing these interviews!

@amyp6684 Год назад

In 1994, I became friends with a guy that was born into this cult (and came out of it). I remember him telling me horrific stories, and thinking they were normal.

@LYAveiga Год назад

Very easy to think shorty things were normal cause we didn't have many references or critical thinkers amongst us

@MartineReed Год назад

@@LYAveiga Are you using the word “shorty” purposefully? My pedo-X always used that word. Does it mean child sex partner?

@lj9524 Год назад

This cult is just one of many. Disgusting, horrifying and heartbreaking….I am so sorry for the abuse Daniella suffered. 💔

@stephanieamy3721 Год назад

Another inspirational interview was truly heartbreaking and powerful at the same time. I am heading to Audible to download the book. Thank you, Daniella, for taking the time to give this interview.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

❤️❤️❤️

@angesoup Год назад

What a positive and healing communication you all are having! I love to see women empowered by their truth

@HolldollMcG Год назад

THANK YOU for mentioning your opposition to "because I said so."! I firmly believe that if you cannot give your child a reason for your will, then it's because there isn't a reason, you just wanna be obeyed no matter what. And if you can't be bothered to explain something to a child, it's because you don't view them as a person. Kids are smart, and they are eager and willing to learn, even if it takes a couple tries. Trust them. Be gentle with them. Teach them your reasoning and eventually they'll learn to govern themselves without you needing to direct their every action.

@jozsefizsak Год назад

It's some comfort to know that Daniella is turning the experiences of a horrific childhood into something positive and educating others about how our minds work, thus perhaps preventing some people being led astray. by these manipulators. I wonder how many people understand that pedophiles will offer their own baby daughters up to the group because they have convinced themselves that no one is too young to consent and the kids themselves want it. I read about this decades ago and the knowledge has been hard to live with, but actually going through it is impossible for me to imagine. Thank you for shining a light on how wretchedly apparently sane people can behave. Perhaps we can stop some of them going forward.

@sarahclark666 Год назад

Thanks for sharing your story, Daniella! Just got your book from the library today, looking forward to reading 😊

@ConstantiaVerted Год назад

Fantastic interview, thanks. Please have this lady on again, especially when she publishes her next book.

@jaclynrichmond1049 Год назад

I just wanted to add, this women gets what Linda listen means, best Linda listen so far 🎉

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Not gonna lie, she pretty much nailed it lol 😎

@user-dg7df3sv7r 11 месяцев назад

This woman is a FIERCE *BUTTERFLY* 🥰 Thank you for platforming such a powerful story of overcoming struggle with intelligence, courage, and righteousness!

@CultstoConsciousness 11 месяцев назад

What an amazing description!!! Couldn’t agree more!

@user-dg7df3sv7r 11 месяцев назад

@@CultstoConsciousness Can you say who 'Uncle Jerry' was?

@Ofthesoundmind Год назад

This was so inspiring!!! Love everything you are apart and can’t wait to see more from you personally!!

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Thank you so much!!

@tanirae 4 месяца назад

What a fantastic interview. Thank you for spotlighting Daniella ad her book. She is the most fascinating, open brilliant (and beautiful) woman I have known. Her book is important and gripping and a must read.

@roni_aust1594 Год назад

That's exactly how I brought up my daughter. I treated her like a little human and told others to do the same when they visited. I am proud of her for doing the same with her daughter.

@colonelweird 10 месяцев назад

I just discovered this channel after seeing the new episode, but I was especially excited to listen to this one. I know someone who is ex-COG -- she was in the cult for about 5 years in the 70s & got out just as Moses David's revelations about sex with children and flirty fishing were filtering down the hierarchy, through Mo Letters, to COG groups around the world. She had spent most of her time selling COG's end times literature on street corners. So she didn't see the worst of it, but her experiences were still terrible, and scarred her for life. Her kids were probably born around the time Daniella's mother was born. Daniella's statement that purity culture and sex cults are actually closely related is fascinating, and I'd like to see that explored more deeply. My friend certainly had experiences that confirm a connection. Her story was in the public eye, so she was known as a naive, pretty, young woman who escaped a sex cult -- that image attracted a certain sort of man in the mainstream Christian circles where she established herself, with predictable results. The sex cult and Christian purity are both built on misogyny & patriarchy. It's enraging to see how women bear the brunt of this evil. I look forward to listening to the episode on the Army's cultish aspects. The overwhelming popularity of the military in this country makes me think this is treading on dangerous ground. As a leftist I've always been highly critical of militarism and imperial warmaking, but I have never given much thought to this aspect of the issue. And I will definitely be reading Uncultured. Thanks so much for this interview.

@daniellegeervander1200 11 месяцев назад

You are a very good interviewer and the way you frame your questions is so very respectful, wow so inspiring.

@CultstoConsciousness 11 месяцев назад

Wow, thank you! That means a lot ❤️

@bonnieralph5151 9 месяцев назад

EXCELLENT guest and great video!!

@minnie7783 Год назад

You should investigate IBLP, a good book to read is Lovingly Abused by Heather Heath, I'd love to hear your takes

@DominiqueSuberville924 Год назад

“The body keeps score.” I’ve never been in a cult or the military but I did grow up in a high-demand family of perfectionists and high achievers while also undergoing reconstructive plastic surgery during my entire childhood. I’ve been diagnosed with PTSD and have abandoned the low-demand Mexican Catholicism I grew up with. It’s weird to relate so much to her experiences. Specifically to “The body keeps score”. I carry every experience of surgeries and hospitals with me and the inability to have had a voice and choice during all that time. It got quite dark for a while but like she says, finding peace and tranquility is healing. It’s been years in the making. A great interview and thank you for that simple phrase. It nailed it on the head for me.

@troismoutonsetuntigre5988 11 месяцев назад

There's a book by that same name which has helped me and a lot of other survivors of abuse enormously - its by Bessel van der Kolk

@jacquelineleitch7050 10 месяцев назад

Wow? Did you grow up in LA?

@l.janecliftonrozell4707 Год назад

I’m sorry for all you went threw I hope you find peace & keep on telling your story much love ❤

@kelleydonovandancers 8 месяцев назад

Wow! Rewatching now that I am reading the book, even more powerful! So glad u are interviewing Kingston women!! I can relate being from an alcoholic family so many parallels there too. I think that is why this stuff fascinates me so much!

@jdr9419 Год назад

My understanding is that the late actor River Phoenix was raised in this cult.

@petalchild Год назад

He was, I believe from ages 3 to 9

@Momma_Vanessa Год назад

As was actress, Rose McGowan

@harley6222 Год назад

Wow!

@cl5470 Год назад

His family left when he was young. His older brother River likely traced some of his drug issues back to his time in the cult though.

@awnage Год назад

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1912">31:52</a> As Eric July says: "Monetize your haters". Well done.

@jojocaitlin8508 10 месяцев назад

I'm so happy I found your channel. I consider learning about religious cults as a kind of hobby of mine. I was raised christian and I believe having the knowledge and awareness of cults/ how they run is incredibly valuable information.

@CultstoConsciousness 10 месяцев назад

Welcome to C2C! Glad you enjoy learning more. I do too!

@billionaireist Год назад

This is one if the best podcasts I ever listed too!! Clear, articulate, filled with insight about life, in addition to the topic.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Wow, thank you!🥰🥰🥰

@gpgp1841 Год назад

I don't know if I have the stomach to watch this particular interview even tho I'm so glad that this channel gives a voice to those affected by abuse. Maybe it's a random connection but I've recently watched an interview from Antoni Padilla "Mary survived satanic cult rituals" (epic trigger warning, extremely disturbing stories), it made me want to cry. But Mary seems like such a sweet soul, maybe you'd like to interview her too.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Oh we TOTALLY understand that. Something that could be very helpful, is letting it play on your phone or computer on silent, so the retention tells the algorithm that people want to watch and will boost its reach. 😁 great suggestion too! I’ll look into her.

@gpgp1841 Год назад

I'll gladly help with the algorithm, I know how mean it is🙃

@MelodyRoseKayCole Год назад

I grew up southern Baptist but my mom for sure had a lot of these types of extreme rules about dressing and especially about food control. When teachers were concerned about my sisters and I being severely underweight because my mom always had us on some diet, she decided to homeschool us. And she was obsessed with us not having sex. When I was 14, she came into my room and just casually told me "out of the three of you girls, I think you'd be the first to get pregnant before you're married." I hadn't even held hands with a boy. And that kind of rhetoric led to me feeling like I had to marry the guy I lost my virginity to and it was an incredibly abusive relationship that, thankfully, I managed to leave. The way you speak to your kids matters! The things you instill in your children matters!

@brandy4530 10 месяцев назад

Almost the exact same thing happened to me! My mom was obsessed with food and sex. I grew up so emaciated that people would make comments, and she would freak out if people fed me as a child. The older I got the less people cared though. When I was 17 my mother woke me up screaming because she had a dream I was pregnant. It was like 2 o’clock in the morning and interrogated me for an hour. She had been harassing and humiliating me about sex before I even hit puberty. When I lost my virginity I didn’t tell a living soul. I was terrified of someone finding out. To this day, I’m 40, I haven’t discussed it with anyone in real life.

@RitaAndCarol 8 месяцев назад

Sorry for both of you. I grew up in a church of Christ and although it wasn’t as extreme as some of the things I’ve heard, it was still traumatizing and I still have triggers from it. It takes a lot of undoing and healing.

@darcymoon2109 9 месяцев назад

She is such an amazing speaker. You both are! Inspiring

@kayterra27 7 месяцев назад

I'm reading 'uncultured' right now! I came across this channel and this was the 2nd video that came up. I'm about halfway through and it's very good.

@user-jv4zr2pp8d 10 месяцев назад

I love your work..i was fascinated to see the corallation of tactics for control and coercion are very similar to many religious cults including the jehovahs witnesses that i escaped from..it was also great to realise that us ex culties can spot the same coercion used in secular life..im also a crochet kind of gal and i love to write..your brilliantly articulate way of explaining the psychology is inspirational..recovery is a long process..i had to learn to accept and love myself and i also self harmed..must read your book...ty so much...x

@user-fy4uv9wb7o Год назад

YES girl go OFF on the military, definitely listening to pt. 2

@KelbyThwaits Год назад

Wow! This interview was sooooo good!!! 🤯 💥

@MsNooneinparticular Год назад

So much respect for these folks including Ricky Rodriguez (R.I.P.). When the law doesn't do a damn thing about child abusers, it should be legal to take them out so they never hurt another person. Call it self defense, revenge, vigilantism, karma... doesn't matter. Crimes that horrific cannot go unpunished. This is one case where the moms/women were just as bad as the men, engaging directly in the sexual abuse of small children. There's written/illustrated proof for anyone with a strong stomach. This woman is an inspiration who did really well for herself in spite of the trauma. Bless. 💚

@jacquelineleitch7050 10 месяцев назад

Although it must be said here that it is statistically 95% men and 5% women.

@AmyFutch Год назад

Omg I just watched an interview with her last night and was wondering, when is cults to consciousness going to have her on!!!

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Hah! I love that so much!! Feel free to let me know if you have any more thoughts like that about guests, because chances are if you feel that way, others do too and there are just so many people I don’t know about until someone brings them up. 😁❤️

@WillieWeed Год назад

I just bought an XL "Don't Talk To Me I'm Disrespectful" t-shirt! First time for buying anyone's merch on yt. But I love the idea of reclaiming the language used against you, and getting paid. Was in the dark about much of what was going on. News kept the seriousness out of the reporting. Much like other cults. But this is just as awful as it gets. It's amazing you were able to have a normal sex life and family. Many never want, and often don't have either. It takes a lot of work to have that. So wonderful you have a little girl and your mother is out to enjoy it together. Excited about episode 2! ✌️❤️

@wanitas190 Год назад

Thanks so much for sharing this story, best one yet

@jaclynrichmond1049 Год назад

I could really relate to her when she said, 911 made her wonder if they were the bad guy. My walking away from the church had alot to do with their national agenda against others. I cant remember the phrase she coined, but it describes the moment the authority of that religion fell, and thats what happened to me.

@MartineReed Год назад

Jaclyn: another commenter posted on this thread that he ran into the Children of God in Russia in the late 1990’s. If you know Purim’s history with the Saudis, this makes perfect sense. Putin came to power in 1999 and soon the whole world started to crash. 🙁🙁🙁

@lisajackson9431 Год назад

I'm looking forward to watching this! Years ago, I read a really good book about this cult titled "Jesus Freaks" by Don Mattin. Good read. 👍🏾

@hollyisalwayshopeful2688 Год назад

Love hearing this and getting insight on a religion, culture, community. Hopefully, this will help others like her for years to come…❤❤❤

@melindadahlquist Год назад

Minutes into watching, as soon as you mentioned the book. . I went straight to buy it ! Such a strong and influential woman. I can't wait to watch the follow up later today when I'm able.

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Amazing! I love hearing that.

@user-wj3yr7xr2f Год назад

A friend of mine joined a Christian cult. And as the supportive friend Iam, I went with him for a while. And they preached purity. No sex before marriage, men and women could only spend time together at church or at church events. I must say. I have never thought so much about sex or felt so aroused all the time as I did then. 😂😂 And then you should know I am a BDSM practitioner and have lived polyamores for years before that point. 😁So if the intention is to prioritize god above our human desires, that's not the way to do it.. One young man actually got a bit nuts and wanted to leave. But the group wouldn't let him off the hook that easily. So for awhile he went and lived with my friends sister, who wasn't in the cult. He fell in love with her but couldn't deal with it very well. No one knows exactly how or why it happened but he shot her one night. And sh died at once. This was a total surprise for everyone, because this was usually a nice young man, not violent at all. And guns are illegal in Sweden, people don't have access to guns here. But my guess is that the cults manipulation drove him insane. Especially those last month, when they were after him constantly.

@DravenUrei Год назад

You know, I'm noticing a trend of using hip hop or trendy urabn themes with their propaganda. It is HIGHLY disconcerting especially when you view the classist and racism aspects of a lot of these cults.

@PrincessJamiG Год назад

That struck me with the Children's music video, too.

@krystalarmstrong3181 Год назад

Hi, I'm new and have been binge watching since this morning. Thank you for this content 🙏👌❤✨️

@CultstoConsciousness Год назад

Hi! Welcome to C2C! Happy to have you here. :)

@MaddysinLeigh Год назад

When you talked about the walls and mentioned the military base having walls, I felt that. I grew up on a military base until I was 13 and when my family moved off of it, I was terrified that someone would break into our house.

@evadneanderson7474 11 месяцев назад

I was raised in a cult and I got out early, then I joined the military, and spent a lot of time hating it and laughing at it and now I realize its because I'd already dissected one cult and therefore it was easier to see through yet another cultic group.