IndoctriNation

Rachel Bernstein
  • 4.8 (27)
  • RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
IndoctriNation Podcast

Welcome to IndoctriNation: A weekly podcast covering cults, manipulators, and protecting yourself from systems of control.

  1. Landmark Whistleblower w/Anne L. Peterson

    16 HR AGO

    Landmark Whistleblower w/Anne L. Peterson

    For over 20 years, Anne Peterson devoted herself to Landmark, the training and development company she believed was transforming lives. She even helped launch the public reemergence of the guru behind the organization, Werner Erhard. But ultimately, Anne faced a reckoning. The organization and Erhard were corroding the message that initially sparked her passion. After years of rationalizing away red flags, the harm beneath the surface became undeniable. Anne now focuses on helping others navigate personal development without exploitation. Drawing from her experiences to provide guidance on recognizing manipulation, her new book Is This a Cult? Confronting the Line Between Transformation and Exploitation is an inspiring tale of rebuilding integrity in the shadow of charismatic leaders and offers hope to all who wonder whether their quest for growth has a dark side. Rachel and Anne delve into Anne's personal journey with Landmark, the emotional complexities of its abuse, and the importance of mental health support for former LGAT members. Throughout the conversation, Anne sheds light on the history of Landmark and its leader from her insider vantage point. Learn more about Anne and her work at: www.isthisacultbook.com Info About Anne's Recovery Group Facilitated by Rachel here: https://ilumn8.life/op/lgat-recovery-group/ Follow Anne on IG: https://www.instagram.com/annelpeterson/ Connect with Us on Social Media: -Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination - Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast - Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast - YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience.

    1h 27m
  2. CULTure Shock w/Kendra Lee Bryan

    11 SEPT

    CULTure Shock w/Kendra Lee Bryan

    Kendra Lee Bryan is a 2-time cult survivor and host of the popular (CULT)ure Shock Show on YouTube. Kendra describes herself as an investigative humorist who casts a snarky spotlight on cults, crime, and crooked culture through a piercing lens of levity. Her humor, intelligence and passion for cult education are driven by her own cultic experiences and make her an excellent host. In this episode, Rachel and Kendra delve into the complexities of emotional abuse, the importance of self-trust, and the journey towards reclaiming joy. Kendra's ability to find humor amidst the darkness is not just a coping mechanism but a powerful tool for healing and connection. For those who have experienced similar traumas, Kendra's story is a reminder that life can get better. Trusting oneself, acknowledging one's worth, and finding joy are pivotal steps in the healing process. Subscribe To Kendra's YouTube Channel to see the video version of this episode: https://www.youtube.com/@kendraleebryan Find out more about Kendra and her work here: https://linktr.ee/kendraleebryan Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Share Your Feedback With Us Here: forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience.

    1h 19m
  3. BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Understanding DARVO pt. 1

    6 SEPT

    BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Understanding DARVO pt. 1

    This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination Rachel dives deep into the concept of DARVO - Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender - a term that sheds light on the manipulative tactics often used by abusers to deflect blame and undermine their victims. In this enlightening bonus episode, she breaks down each component of DARVO, illustrating how these tactics are employed and their psychological impact on victims. Rachel explains how abusers deny their harmful actions, attack the victim's credibility, and reverse roles to portray themselves as the victim. She shares personal anecdotes and examples to highlight the real-world application of DARVO, including the disturbing practices within certain fundamentalist groups and toxic men's movements. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of manipulation and abuse. Rachel offers practical advice on recognizing and responding to DARVO, empowering listeners to protect themselves and support others who may be experiencing similar tactics. Thank you for your continued support as a subscriber and supporter of the show. Your partnership is invaluable, and we are pleased to offer you these bonus episodes as a token of our appreciation. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Share Your Feedback With Us Here: forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience.

    6 min
  4. Asian American Apostate w/R. Scott Okamoto

    4 SEPT

    Asian American Apostate w/R. Scott Okamoto

    R. Scott Okamoto is a fourth-generation Japanese American author, musician, and college professor from Pasadena, California. Scott is the host of the Chapel Probation podcast and the author of the new book, "Asian American Apostate: Losing Religion and Finding Myself at an Evangelical University." His work provides a wry and ironic insight into how America's evangelical schools encourage rigid social structures and white cultural power, rather than fostering a life of the mind. Rachel and Scott delve into his personal journey of growing up in a deeply evangelical environment and his experiences as a professor at an evangelical university. Scott shares the complexities of his deconstruction process, the challenges he faced questioning the status quo, and the systemic issues within evangelical institutions, including racism, sexism, and homophobia. He also discusses the impact of his family's history, particularly their experiences in Japanese internment camps during World War II, on his own beliefs and identity. Scott's insights offer a powerful testament to the importance of questioning and the courage it takes to confront deeply entrenched systems of power and control. Learn more about Scott and his work at: www.rscottokamoto.com Connect with Us on Social Media: - Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination - Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast - Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast - YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience.

    1h 6m
  5. Abuse, Betrayal, and Transformation w/Christa Brown

    28 AUG

    Abuse, Betrayal, and Transformation w/Christa Brown

    Named as one of the "top 10 religion newsmakers" of 2022 today’s guest, Christa Brown has persisted for two decades in working to peel back the truth about clergy sex abuse and coverups in the nation's largest Protestant denomination, the Southern Baptist Convention. She was one of the first to go public with substantiated child molestation allegations against a Baptist minister, along with documentation that others knew, and she has consistently demanded reforms to make other kids and congregants safer. Christa is a retired attorney, a mom, a wife, and a grandma. And now she's the author of the new book, Baptistland: A Memoir of Abuse, Betrayal, and Transformation, which weaves together Christa’s vulnerable survivor story of hope amid Southern patriarchy, religious fundamentalism, and clergy abuse. Christa bravely shares her own story of substantiated child molestation allegations against a Baptist minister, and her relentless fight for reforms to protect other children and congregants. She discusses the pervasive issue of victim blaming, the weaponization of faith against victims, and the systemic failures of religious institutions to protect their most vulnerable members. Christa also highlights the broader societal implications of these issues, including the troubling rise of Christian nationalism and the erosion of the separation between church and state. This episode is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of clergy abuse, the dynamics of high-control religious environments, and the importance of advocacy and systemic change. Christa's story is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience required to confront deeply entrenched systems of power and abuse. Christa's book, Baptist: A Memoir of Abuse, Betrayal is available everywhere. Learn more about Christa and her work at: https://christabrown.me/ Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Support us on Patreon for exclusive merch and bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/indoctrination Share Your Feedback With Us Here: forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience.

    1h 15m
  6. BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: The Blame Game: Unmasking Victim Blaming

    23 AUG

    BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: The Blame Game: Unmasking Victim Blaming

    This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at: www.patreon.com/indoctrination In this insightful solo Bonus episode, Rachel delves into the pervasive issue of victim blaming within various contexts, including new-age thinking, large group awareness training, the self-help movement, religious organizations, and abusive relationships. She explores how these environments often manipulate individuals into believing they are responsible for their own trauma and abuse, thus perpetuating a cycle of self-blame and re-victimization. Rachel discusses the historical roots of this harmful ideology, citing examples from groups like EST (now Landmark) and Synanon, where victims were made to feel they invited their own abuse. She also touches on the troubling practices of fraudulent residential teen treatment centers and certain religious sects that use spiritual justifications to absolve abusers of responsibility. This episode is crucial for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of abuse and the destructive nature of victim blaming. Rachel's compassionate and knowledgeable approach provides valuable insights into the ongoing process of recovery and the importance of societal change in addressing these issues. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Share Your Feedback With Us Here: forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience.

    4 min
  7. The Hope In Our Scars w/Aimee Byrd

    21 AUG

    The Hope In Our Scars w/Aimee Byrd

    Aimee Byrd is an author, speaker, blogger, and podcaster. She has written several books including Recovering from Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, and Sexual Reformation. Her latest work, The Hope In Our Scars peels back the Christian church’s underlying and pervasive theology of power, to face the shame that lurks there. Having trodden her own path of disillusionment, Aimee invites the reader to find faith amidst the chaos of the church’s status quo. Rachel and Aimee discuss a wide range of topics, including the challenges Aimee faced within the church, the spiritual abuse she endured, and the impact of these experiences on her family. Aimee shares her personal story of navigating through public attacks and the trauma of being vilified by church leaders. She also talks about the importance of naming wounds, the significance of scars, both visible and invisible, and the role of community in healing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of spiritual abuse, the process of healing, and the power of hope and resilience. Aimee's story is a testament to the strength required to stand up against systemic issues within religious institutions. You can find out more about Aimee and her work here: https://aimeebyrd.com/ Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Share Your Feedback With Us Here: forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience.

    57 min
  8. Surveillance and Salvation w/Elle Hardy

    14 AUG

    Surveillance and Salvation w/Elle Hardy

    Elle Hardy is an Australian-born journalist mostly based in New Orleans. She has covered stories from every continent on earth, from North Korea to the backwoods of Alabama. Her writing credits include The Guardian, The Times, GQ, Vice, and more. Elle also appeared alongside Rachel, in the documentary Hillsong: A Megachurch Exposed, which uncovered the scandals of the “hip celebrity church”. Elle also went on to co-host the podcast series False Profits A personal journey into the heart of Hillsong Megachurch. Her first book exposes the Pentecostal agenda: not just saving souls but also transforming societies and controlling politics. She is currently working on her second book, about the Unification Church (also known as the Moonies), for Simon & Schuster. Rachel and Elle dive into a wide range of topics, including the global influence of Pentecostalism, the troubling rise of surveillance and data harvesting by religious groups, and the political shifts within evangelical and Catholic circles in the United States. Elle shares her insights on how these movements differ across countries and the implications of these differences. Elle discusses the unsettling trend of evangelical groups using apps to track and target individuals for conversion, revealing the potential dangers of such data being used by malicious actors. The conversation also touches on the political rightward shift among evangelicals and Catholics, the role of women in these movements, and the broader societal impacts of these trends. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of modern religious movements and their far-reaching effects on society and politics. You can learn more about Elle and her work at ellehardy.com. Connect with Us on Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/_indoctrination Facebook: www.facebook.com/indoctrinationpodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/indoctrinationpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/rachelbernsteinlmft Share Your Feedback With Us Here: forms.gle/tz8eQwZorVNWWyQq6 Your reviews and ratings on Spotify and Apple/iTunes are greatly appreciated and help the show reach a wider audience.

    60 min
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Hosts & Guests

4.8
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

Welcome to IndoctriNation: A weekly podcast covering cults, manipulators, and protecting yourself from systems of control.

Information

  • Creator
    Rachel Bernstein
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2024
  • Episodes
    337
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    IndoctriNation

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