Daniella Mestyanek Young is a captivating figure in the study of cults and group psychology. Raised in the notorious Children of God cult, she escaped as a teen...
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, host Scott Loyd and guest Daniela Mestenec Young engage in a deep conversation with Ben John about the self-help industry, misguided mentors, and the red flags associated with cult-like organizations. Ben shares his personal journey of being involved in a self-help group that he later recognized as a cult, discussing the tactics used by leaders to manipulate followers. The conversation explores the importance of discernment in seeking guidance, the emotional costs of leaving such groups, and the need for authenticity in personal growth. Ben emphasizes that true growth comes from within and that individuals should be wary of those who exploit vulnerabilities for profit.  Benjamin’s Links  Youtube Book  Daniella's Links: You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/4bwvNC0 Instagram:  https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_ Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8 Other Podcasts Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women Scot's TikTok @thescotloyd Takeaways The self-help industry is largely unregulated and can be predatory. Misguided mentors often use manipulation tactics to control their followers. Vulnerability can be weaponized by cult leaders to create dependency. Leaving a cult can result in significant emotional and relational costs. Authenticity in personal growth is crucial; individuals should trust their instincts. Red flags include leaders who discourage independent thinking. Community and belonging are powerful human desires that cults exploit. Self-help should not come at the cost of personal well-being. It's important to recognize the difference between ethical and unethical sales tactics. Personal transformation can attract predators, so caution is necessary.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 02:27 The Rise of Misguided Mentorship 06:30 The Cult of Self-Help and Masculinity 11:44 Red Flags in Self-Help Groups 17:33 The Illusion of Vulnerability 23:20 Identifying Ethical Mentorship 29:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 30:45 The Charismatic Leader Phenomenon 32:11 The Transformation into Villainy 33:06 Awareness and Advocacy Against Cults 34:22 Navigating the Fine Line of Influence 36:13 Understanding Group Behavior and Manipulation 38:19 Creating Ethical Sales Practices 39:45 The Journey of Deconstruction 42:31 Authenticity in Storytelling 44:33 The High Cost of Leaving Cults 49:49 Advice to My Younger Self 51:16 The Permission to Just Be  Produced by Haley Phillips
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Episode 32 | Satanic Panic Debunked
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scott Loyd and Daniela Mesteneck Young engage in a profound conversation with Lydia Knight, who shares her harrowing experiences growing up in a cult. Lydia discusses the complexities of her upbringing, including themes of racism, the satanic panic, and the psychological impact of fear and control within cult dynamics. The conversation delves into the process of healing and deprogramming, the importance of reconnecting with family, and the empowerment that comes from leadership and coaching. Lydia's journey of transformation serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and the power of reclaiming one's narrative. Lydia's Links: https://theshecenter.org/ Daniella's Links: You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/4bwvNC0 Instagram: https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_ Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8 Other Podcasts Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women Scot's TikTok @thescotloyd Takeaways Lydia Knight shares her experiences growing up in a cult. The concept of 'apocalypticizing' reflects societal fears. Racism and identity play significant roles in cult experiences. The satanic panic of the 80s influenced many cult narratives. Fear can create a false sense of comfort and community. The importance of questioning and seeking truth in cult dynamics. Healing from trauma involves deprogramming from harmful beliefs. Reconnecting with family can be a complex journey. Empowerment through leadership is crucial for women. Transforming trauma into a source of strength is possible. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cult Experiences 03:25 Lydia Knight's Journey and Background 06:08 Racism and Identity in a Cult 09:21 The Impact of the Satanic Panic 12:00 The Role of Secret Knowledge in Cults 15:11 The Complexity of Abuse and Protection 18:02 Deconstructing Cult Beliefs and Systems 20:52 The Intersection of Personal and Societal Cultures 23:57 Reflections on Healing and Activism 31:17 The Creation of Fear and Control 32:46 Facing Fears and Planning for the Worst 36:29 Breaking Free from Past Programming 41:33 The Journey of Discovery and Truth 48:17 Confronting Lies and Seeking Proof 49:54 Reconnecting with Family and Healing 53:41 Transforming Trauma into Empowerment Produced by Haley Phillips
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Episode 31 | Cult Situation Report
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella Mesteneck Young explore the current political climate in the U.S. and its parallels to cult dynamics. They discuss the rise of cult mentality, the deification of leaders, and the implications of executive power. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, collective action, and the role of art in resisting oppressive governance. The hosts encourage listeners to engage with their communities and resist fear-driven narratives, highlighting the need for resilience and creativity in challenging times. Daniella's Links: You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram: https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_ Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8 Other Podcasts Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women Scot's TikTok @thescotloyd Takeaways The current political climate reflects cult-like dynamics. Fear is a tactic used by cult leaders to control. Deification of leaders leads to dangerous governance. Cults can be led by charismatic individuals or ideas. The military operates under a different cult dynamic than political cults. Executive power is expanding in ways that threaten democracy. Community engagement is crucial for resistance. Art and hobbies are vital during oppressive times. Panic is counterproductive; planning and action are essential. History teaches us that patterns repeat, but not exactly. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cult Dynamics 03:38 The Current Political Climate and Cult Behavior 06:40 The Deification of Leaders 09:33 Cult Language and Tactics 12:44 Military Culture and Cult Dynamics 15:28 The Intersection of Politics and Military 18:38 The Role of Women in Military Cultures 21:36 Concluding Thoughts on Cults and Society 29:09 The Acceleration of Authoritarianism 31:33 The Resilience of American Democracy 34:32 The Dangers of Pendulum Politics 37:36 Historical Context and Future Concerns 40:40 The Impact of Governance on Global Relations 43:37 Strategies for Resilience and Resistance 47:06 Community and Collective Action 51:25 The Role of Hobbies in Times of Oppression
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Episode 30 | The DSM as a Weapon
In this conversation, Daniella and Katie Keech explore the intersections of cult dynamics, mental health, and neurodiversity. They discuss the misdiagnosis of mental health disorders in cult survivors, the authoritarian nature of the DSM, and the importance of self-definition and community support. The conversation delves into the complexities of plurality, trauma, and identity, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of these issues in a world that often seeks to categorize and control individuals. Daniella's Links: You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram: https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_ Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8 Other Podcasts Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women Takeaways Many cult survivors are misdiagnosed with mental health disorders. The DSM can serve as a tool for control rather than understanding. Neurodivergent individuals often face unique challenges in cult environments. Self-diagnosis can empower individuals to understand their identities. Cults and fascist dynamics share similar control mechanisms. Community support is crucial for those navigating identity issues. Plurality is a valid identity that challenges traditional notions of self. Trauma impacts individuals differently, and not all trauma leads to DID. Cultural perspectives on identity can vary widely and influence understanding. The importance of flexibility in thought and understanding human behavior. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cults and Mental Health 02:21 Misdiagnosis and Understanding DID 05:25 Neurodiversity and Cult Dynamics 10:03 Therapists and Cult-like Structures 12:02 The Ethics of Therapy and Self-Diagnosis 17:23 Exploring Plurality and Neurodivergence 31:10 The Illusion of Rationality 32:34 The Complexity of Human Emotions 34:47 Patriarchy and Cult Dynamics 36:42 Power Structures and Empathy 38:30 Community and Connection in Modern Society 41:17 Navigating Identity in a Changing World 43:42 The Dangers of Binary Thinking 45:43 The Impact of Control in Cults and Military 47:46 The Spectrum of Human Experience 49:27 Redefining Labels and Definitions 51:36 The Tactics of Control 53:24 The Role of Nuance in Understanding Cults 55:19 Evolving Perspectives in Mental Health Produced by Haley Phillips
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Episode 29 | Asian American Apostate
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella Mesteneck Young engage in a deep conversation with Scott Okamoto, who shares his journey from evangelical Christianity to questioning the very foundations of his beliefs. The discussion touches on themes of identity, race, and the struggles of belonging within high-control groups. They explore the dynamics of critical thinking versus apologetics in Christian education, the impact of the model minority myth, and the role of empathy in Christianity. Scott reflects on his experiences teaching at a Christian university and the challenges he faced while trying to foster a more inclusive environment. The conversation culminates in a discussion about the current state of Christianity and its intersection with social justice, as well as Scott's ongoing work in helping others navigate their own journeys out of high-control groups. Scott Okamoto's Links: Substack Podcast Book Daniella's Links: You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella’s Tiktok: https://bit.ly/3V6GK6k / KnittingCultLady Instagram: https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_ Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8 Other Podcasts Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women Takeaways Scott Okamoto shares his experience growing up in evangelical Christianity. The conversation highlights the struggles of identity and belonging in high-control groups. Critical thinking is often stifled in Christian education, replaced by apologetics. The model minority myth complicates the experiences of Asian Americans in evangelical spaces. Empathy is lacking in contemporary Christianity, as evidenced by recent teachings. Scott's journey out of evangelicalism was gradual, marked by many small realizations. Interpersonal relationships can be a significant barrier to leaving high-control groups. Scott's current work focuses on helping others navigate their experiences in Christian schools. The conversation draws parallels between cult dynamics and the tech industry. The hosts emphasize the importance of questioning and critical engagement in all areas of life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment of Social Issues 01:55 Scott Okamoto's Journey in Evangelical Christianity 06:53 Struggles with Identity and Belonging 10:40 The Role of Argumentation in Cults and Christianity 15:13 Toxic Masculinity and Church Dynamics 18:24 Racial Dynamics in Christianity 23:44 The Model Minority Myth and Its Implications 30:03 Recognizing Our Place in the Movement 31:08 The Journey of Awakening 32:13 The Struggle with Faith and Reality 35:01 The Cop-Out of Prayer 36:28 The Politics of Panic 38:57 Interpersonal Relationships and Leaving the Church 40:05 Finding Community Beyond the Church 43:30 Empathy and the State of Christianity 44:44 The Podcast and the Book 52:41 The Cult of the Tech Industry Produced by Haley Phillips
Daniella Mestyanek Young is a captivating figure in the study of cults and group psychology. Raised in the notorious Children of God cult, she escaped as a teenager and later joined the U.S. military, where she specialized in studying terrorists and other extreme groups as a military intelligence officer. Daniella holds a master's degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Harvard Extension School and is the author of "Uncultured," a critically acclaimed memoir. Today, she is a scholar of cults, extreme groups, and toxic leadership, leveraging her unique experiences to illuminate the dynamics of cults and the manipulative tactics of charismatic leaders. Together with fellow cult survivor Scot Loyd, Daniella delves into the intricacies of some of the world's most notorious cults and reveals how these same manipulative techniques are present in various aspects of our society.
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