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 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
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Episode 28 | Online Cult
In this episode, Scott Loyd and Daniella Mestyneck Young engage in a deep conversation with Taylor Marie, a mental health therapist and cult survivor. Taylor shares her experiences with an online cult, discussing the similarities between online and in-person cults, the recruitment tactics used, and the psychological manipulation involved. The conversation explores the dynamics of charismatic leadership, the exploitation of belonging and purpose, and the red flags that led to Taylor's eventual departure from the cult. The discussion also touches on the importance of healthy leadership and the potential for spiritual practices to exist without devolving into cult-like behavior. In this conversation, Taylor Marie shares her harrowing experience of being involved in a cult-like astrology group, detailing the emotional turmoil and moral conflicts she faced. She discusses the manipulative tactics of the cult leader, the fear of leaving, and the subsequent backlash she received after her departure. The conversation highlights the importance of questioning authority and the role of social media in exposing harmful groups. Taylor's journey of self-discovery and the impact on her family dynamics are also explored, culminating in a powerful narrative of resilience and personal growth. 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 Taylor Marie is a mental health therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse and cult recovery. Online cults operate similarly to in-person cults, with differences mainly in communication. Recruitment often occurs through social media platforms like TikTok, using charisma and confidence. The sense of belonging is a powerful tool used by cults to maintain control over members. Charismatic leaders often exploit followers' desires for purpose and belonging. Red flags include isolation from outside information and constant negative comparisons to others in the field. Healthy leadership promotes free thinking and allows for questioning and disagreement. Cults often take credit for the successes of their members, creating a cycle of dependency. Leaving a cult can feel like a crisis, as one's worldview is challenged and dismantled. It is possible to lead in spiritual practices without coercion or manipulation. The breaking point often comes when personal values clash with group beliefs. Questioning authority can lead to significant personal revelations. Leaving a cult can involve emotional and legal repercussions. Social media can amplify voices and expose harmful practices. The aftermath of leaving a cult can affect family relationships. Cult leaders often manipulate their followers through fear and guilt. It's important to recognize the signs of cult-like behavior in groups. Personal growth often follows the questioning of long-held beliefs. The experience of leaving a cult can be isolating and traumatic. Support from family and friends is crucial during the exit process. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cults and Online Communities 01:32 Defining Online Cults 05:11 The Evolution of Relationships in the Digital Age 07:19 Recruitment Tactics in Online Cults 10:18 The Dynamics of Charismatic Leadership 12:21 The Exploitation of Belonging and Purpose 14:24 Red Flags and Realizations 21:55 Healthy Leadership vs. Cult Leadership 28:21 The Crisis of Leaving a Cult 28:46 The Breaking Point: Values and Morals in Conflict 31:24 Questioning Authority: The Cult Leader's Influence 34:04 The Cost of Leaving: Emotional and Legal Retaliation 43:53 Going Viral: The Power of Social Media in Exposing Cults 50:17 The Aftermath: Family Dynamics and Public Scrutiny Produced by Haley Phillips
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Episode 27 | Childhood Torture vs Abuse
Content Warning: This episode includes descriptions of the abuse and torture of young children In this episode of 'Cults and the Culting of America', hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella Mestyanek Young engage in a profound discussion with Ali Davis about the complexities of childhood torture, the distinction between abuse and torture, and the societal implications of these issues. They explore personal stories of survival, the role of the judicial system, and the cultural influences that perpetuate cycles of violence. The conversation emphasizes the importance of education, recognition of trauma, and the need for societal change to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children. Connect with Ali Davis Website Haley's Fundraiser Click Here to donate to Haley's Go Fund me 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 Conspiracies distract from real issues in society. Torture is a calculated act, unlike abuse. Judicial systems often fail to recognize torture. Survivors of childhood torture face unique challenges. Naming trauma helps survivors heal. Generational trauma affects parenting styles. Cultural norms can perpetuate violence against children. Education is crucial in breaking cycles of abuse. Survivors of color face additional barriers. Society must change its view on violence against children. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation and Current Events 03:19 Understanding Conspiracies and Their Impact 06:21 Ali's Journey: From Survivor to Advocate 12:42 Defining Childhood Torture vs. Abuse 17:43 Personal Stories of Trauma and Healing 24:53 Steps Toward Healing and Advocacy 28:03 From Despair to Empowerment 29:23 Understanding Childhood Trauma 31:05 The Complexity of Abuse and Torture 33:59 Cultural Conditioning and Violence 39:57 The Military and Psychological Impact 40:55 The Ineffectiveness of Torture 45:24 The Culture of Violence in America 48:03 The Intersection of Race and Trauma 53:11 Breaking Generational Trauma 56:35 Creating New Paradigms for Parenting 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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