A Little Bit Culty

Sarah Edmondson & Anthony “Nippy” Ames

Think you might be in a cult? Want to know the signs? Join Sarah Edmondson and Anthony “Nippy” Ames to talk about things that are..a little bit culty. Or in their case: a whole bunch of culty. As whistleblowers documented in the critically-acclaimed HBO series “The Vow,” Sarah and Nippy have a lot to say about their experience, and burning questions to ask people with similar stories. They’re here to help people understand, heal from, and avoid abusive situations one little red flag at a time. Listen in as they share their stories, have frank and unscripted conversations with other survivors and cult experts, and do a deep dive on how devotion can turn to dysfunction.

  1. A Little Bit Extra: Diddy’s Sentence, Sarma’s Salads, & Listener Voicemails

    5 HR AGO · BONUS

    A Little Bit Extra: Diddy’s Sentence, Sarma’s Salads, & Listener Voicemails

    In this A Little Bit Extra ep, Sarah dishes all about her recent trip to New York City—think walks on The High Line, big shroom feels, and some serious kitchen magic courtesy of Sarma Melngailis. What happens when two culty survivors share homemade meals and chat about upcoming guest Dr. Ingrid Clayton’s Fawning? You get a new club: “Fawn Stars”—and Sarah is a founding member. We also break down the latest courtroom jaw-dropper (yep, the Diddy sentence), spill on where we’re at with our forthcoming book, and it’s open mic time for listener voicemails���expect spicy takes, cathartic rants, and a few hearty laughs on the side. It’s real talk, big updates, and that signature ALBC flavor you know and love. Also…let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book here Check out our amazing sponsors Join A Little Bit Culty on Patreon Get poppin’ fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Check out our cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, Scarred CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Audio production: Will Retherford Production Coordinator: Lesli Dinsmore Writer: Sandra Nomoto Social media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke Keane Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    33 min
  2. You Might Also Like: The School of Greatness

    5 HR AGO · BONUS

    You Might Also Like: The School of Greatness

    Introducing This Daily Habit Will Let You ACHIEVE ANYTHING You Want! (Law Of Attraction) | Bob Proctor from The School of Greatness. Follow the show: The School of Greatness Bob Proctor almost missed being in The Secret—a garbled voicemail nearly cost him the opportunity that would introduce millions to his work. But long before that moment, Bob had already transformed from a broke, directionless 26-year-old into someone earning over a million dollars a year cleaning offices. His journey reveals a truth most people miss: your results aren't determined by how smart you are or how hard you work, but by the paradigm—the unconscious programming—controlling your behavior. In this conversation, Bob breaks down the higher faculties we all possess but rarely develop, explains why brilliant people stay broke, and offers a roadmap for changing the conditioning that keeps us trapped. You'll walk away understanding that freedom isn't about working harder—it's about rewiring the patterns that run your life. Bob Proctor’s books: Change Your Paradigm, Change Your LifeYou Were Born RichThe Secret of The Science of Getting Rich: Change Your Beliefs About Success and Money to Create The Life You WantIn this episode you will: Discover why your paradigm—not your intellect—controls your income, and how to identify the unconscious patterns keeping you stuck in the same financial reality year after yearTransform your relationship with fear by understanding the "terror barrier" and why breaking through it is the only path to growth, freedom, and the life you actually wantMaster the six higher faculties (perception, will, reason, imagination, memory, intuition) that separate humans from every other species—and learn practical ways to develop each one dailyBreak free from the trap of working harder by understanding Napoleon Hill's principle: riches never come from hard work alone, but from definite demands based on definite principlesRewire your brain through the power of repetition and gratitude, including Bob's daily practice of writing with his non-dominant hand to consciously reshape his paradigmFor more information go to https://lewishowes.com/1837 For more Greatness text PODCAST to +1 (614) 350-3960 More SOG episodes we think you’ll love: Lewis Howes [SOLO] – greatness.lnk.to/1831SC Dean Graziosi  – greatness.lnk.to/1766SC Alex Hormozi – greatness.lnk.to/1723SC Get more from Lewis!  Get my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy! Get The Greatness Mindset audiobook on Spotify Text Lewis AI YouTube Instagram Website Tiktok Facebook X Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

  3. "Holy Disruptor" Amy Duggar King: Healing Beyond the Spotlight

    3 DAYS AGO

    "Holy Disruptor" Amy Duggar King: Healing Beyond the Spotlight

    What’s it like to survive chaos at home, culty control next door, and a national TV spotlight that labels you “crazy cousin”—all before breakfast? In this episode, we sat down with Amy Duggar King to talk about finally telling her real story after years of reality TV, IBLP dogma, and generational trauma behind the Duggar family empire. Amy gets candid about finding her voice after childhood abuse, navigating gaslighting on and off the set, and why her memoir aims to help others break free from toxic family systems. From confronting red flags and speaking out about Shiny Happy People to choosing peace, healing, and faith on her own terms, Amy shares what it means to be a “holy disruptor” when the world wants you to keep smiling for the cameras. Check out her memoir, Holy Disruptor: Shattering the Shiny Facade by Getting Louder with the Truth. Trigger warning: This episode contains frank discussion of abuse and child pornography. Also…let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book here Check out our amazing sponsors Join A Little Bit Culty on Patreon Get poppin’ fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Check out our cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, Scarred CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Audio production: Will Retherford Production Coordinator: Lesli Dinsmore Writer: Sandra Nomoto Social media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke Keane Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off their entire colostrum order; just head to CowboyColostrum.com and use code CULTY at checkout.  Don’t let financial opportunity slip through the cracks. Use code CULTY at MonarchMoney.com in your browser for half off your first year. Bring on the good vibes and treat yourself to Soul today! Soul is offering our audience 30% off your entire order! Go to GetSoul.com and use the code CULTY. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    58 min
  4. Inside Cult Intervention: Lessons from Joe Szimhart (Part 2)

    9 OCT

    Inside Cult Intervention: Lessons from Joe Szimhart (Part 2)

    In the second part of this conversation, Joe Szimhart delves into the intricate preparations and challenges of conducting cult interventions. He discusses the importance of understanding individual situations and the role of family dynamics in intervention success. Through vivid anecdotes, Joe explains the historical and sociological aspects of cult deprogramming, touching on controversial figures like Ted Patrick. He also highlights the psychological concepts such as cognitive dissonance, thought reform, and the significant impact of maintaining rapport and active listening. The episode encapsulates Joe's extensive experience and offers valuable advice for families dealing with loved ones entangled in high-control groups. Timestamp menu: 00:00 Introduction and Recap00:29 Preparing for an Intervention02:37 When to Use Force in Interventions02:55 The History of Deprogramming06:40 Challenges in Interventions08:36 Cases of Misunderstood Cult Influence13:50 Current Concerns in Cult Activities17:46 Understanding Brainwashing and Cognitive Dissonance18:26 Intervention Stories and Psychological Changes21:06 Breaking Cognitive Dissonance24:47 Personal Experience vs. Vicarious Experience29:11 Active Listening and Engaging Conversations33:41 Advice for Loved Ones of Cult Members36:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts You can contact Joe at jszimhart.com, follow him on his YouTube channel or on X @jszimhart, and check out his memoir, Santa Fe, Bill Tate, and me. Check out his site dedicated to "culty" work: www.cultbehaviorconsultant.com. Also…let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book here Check out our amazing sponsors Join A Little Bit Culty on Patreon Get poppin’ fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Check out our cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, Scarred CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Audio production: Will Retherford Production Coordinator: Lesli Dinsmore Writer: Sandra Nomoto Social media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke Keane Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    38 min
  5. Inside Cult Intervention: Lessons from Joe Szimhart (Part 1)

    6 OCT

    Inside Cult Intervention: Lessons from Joe Szimhart (Part 1)

    In this gripping episode of 'A Little Bit Culty,' hosts welcome Joe Szimhart, a veteran cult interventionist with over 40 years of experience. Joe delves into the history and evolution of cult deprogramming, sharing intricate details of his personal journey from an art student to an expert in cult interventions. The conversation covers key figures and movements in esotericism and theosophy, drawing connections between early and modern cult practices. Joe's fascinating anecdotes and practical advice on effective intervention methods offer valuable insights into the complexities of steering loved ones away from high control groups. This is part one of a two-part series. Timestamp Menu: 00:00 Introduction to Cult Intervention00:20 Meet Joe Sim Hart: Cult Interventionist01:29 Joe's Journey into Cults02:53 Theosophy and Esoteric Teachings07:16 Experiences with the I Am Cult12:50 Leaving the Cult and Helping Others23:21 First Steps as an Interventionist29:07 Techniques and Success Stories33:55 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two You can contact Joe at jszimhart.com, follow him on his YouTube channel or on X @jszimhart, and check out his memoir, Santa Fe, Bill Tate, and me. Check out his site dedicated to "culty" work: www.cultbehaviorconsultant.com. Also…let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book here Check out our amazing sponsors Join A Little Bit Culty on Patreon Get poppin’ fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Check out our cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, Scarred CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Audio production: Will Retherford Production Coordinator: Lesli Dinsmore Writer: Sandra Nomoto Social media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke Keane Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    36 min
  6. Child Labor, Tom Cruise, and Space Erotica: Marc Headley on Escaping Scientology (Part 2)

    2 OCT

    Child Labor, Tom Cruise, and Space Erotica: Marc Headley on Escaping Scientology (Part 2)

    In this follow-up episode, Marc Headley shares his extraordinary experiences within Scientology and the Sea Organization. He recounts being recruited into the Sea Org, working under extreme conditions in Los Angeles, and eventually being promoted to the international headquarters. Marc reveals the demanding nature of life in the Sea Org, including grueling work schedules and minimal pay. He details his unexpected role as a pre-clear for Tom Cruise and provides an inside look at the complicated, often bizarre practices within Scientology. Additionally, Marc discusses David Miscavige's leadership style, the organization's financial strategies, and the differences in how ex-members view life inside and outside of Scientology. This episode is rich with personal anecdotes and critical insights, offering a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world's most controversial organizations. Menu: 00:00 Introduction and Tom Cruise Anecdote00:33 Joining the Sea Org02:07 Promotion to International Headquarters03:34 Tom Cruise's Scientology Training05:37 Car School and Auditing07:54 Meeting with Marty Rathman09:28 Auditing with Tom Cruise20:56 David Miscavige and the IRS Event29:03 Scientology's Financial Exploitation31:57 A Life of Misery and Overwork32:28 The Decision to Escape33:34 The Harsh Reality of Life Inside36:52 The Violent Doctrine of Scientology39:01 Financial Manipulations and Power45:09 The Cult's Financial Strategies55:14 The Aftermath Foundation's Mission Follow Marc’s work and podcast at theaftermathfoundation.org and blownforgood.com and on YouTube @TheAftermathFoundation and @blownforgood. Also check out our past episodes with ex-Scientologists Mike Rinder and Claire Headley and Marc’s book, Blown for Good: Behind the Iron Curtain of Scientology. Also…let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book here Check out our amazing sponsors Join A Little Bit Culty on Patreon Get poppin’ fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Check out our cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, Scarred CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Audio production: Will Retherford Production Coordinator: Lesli Dinsmore Writer: Sandra Nomoto Social media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke Keane Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: Keep it classic and cozy this fall—with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to Quince.com/culty for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Don’t let financial opportunity slip through the cracks. Use code CULTY at MonarchMoney.com in your browser for half off your first year. If you’re 21+, head to ViiaHemp.com and use the code CULTY to receive 15% off. Head to Superpower.com to learn more and lock in the special $199 price while it lasts. After you sign up, they'll ask how you heard about them—please make sure to mention A Little Bit Culty to support the show.  Whether you’re chasing deeper sleep, better focus, or just some peace between your streaming marathons—this is how adults get elevated now. If you’re 21 or older, now’s your chance to float above the stress—because IndaCloud is giving all new customers 25% off their first order plus free shipping. Just use code CULTY or click the link in the show notes to claim your discount. That’s IndaCloud.co. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1 hr
  7. Child Labor, Tom Cruise, and Space Erotica: Marc Headley on Escaping Scientology (Part 1)

    29 SEPT

    Child Labor, Tom Cruise, and Space Erotica: Marc Headley on Escaping Scientology (Part 1)

    This episode is a conversation between a former member of the Sea Organization, an elite group within the Church of Scientology, and a host, Marc Headley. Part 1 of this discussion covers the former member's experiences in Scientology, including his family's involvement, the numerous relocations during his childhood, and working at Scientology's international base. Marc details the manipulation through family ties, the rigorous daily routine, and the psychological control employed by the organization. It also touches on the controversial beliefs and practices within Scientology, such as the infamous story of Lord Zenu. Moreover, the episode hints at a cliffhanger involving a significant encounter with Tom Cruise, promising more detailed revelations in Part 2.  Menu:  00:00 Reunion in Vancouver00:09 Diving into the Book00:28 Life in Scientology03:26 The International Base05:31 The Secret Government Facility06:46 Old Man Gilman's Scam07:16 Scientology's Deceptive Purchases07:55 L. Ron Hubbard's Training Films15:05 Marc's Journey into Scientology20:11 Life in Hollywood22:26 Living the Scientology Way22:57 Childhood in Scientology25:28 Working for Scientology as a Child30:17 The Financial Side of Scientology33:14 Space Opera and Scientology Beliefs34:12 Personal Experiences and Reflections40:24 Family and Social Status in Scientology41:43 Teaser for the Next Episode Follow Marc’s work and podcast at theaftermathfoundation.org and blownforgood.com and on YouTube @TheAftermathFoundation and @blownforgood.  Also check out our past episodes with ex-Scientologists Mike Rinder and Claire Headley and Marc’s book, Blown for Good: Behind the Iron Curtain of Scientology. Also…let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book here Check out our amazing sponsors Join A Little Bit Culty on Patreon Get poppin’ fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Check out our cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, Scarred CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Audio production: Will Retherford Production Coordinator: Lesli Dinsmore Writer: Sandra Nomoto Social media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke Keane Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    43 min
  8. Who's Your Granddaddy? Stefan Kolesar on Amway and World Wide Group (Part 2)

    25 SEPT

    Who's Your Granddaddy? Stefan Kolesar on Amway and World Wide Group (Part 2)

    Ready for the breaking point? In Part 2, we continue Stefan Kolesar’s deep dive into the world of Amway—where all those red flags on the shelf finally came crashing down. From mounting disillusionment and classic gaslighting to the pain of leaving behind loyal friends and an imagined future, Stefan shares the raw reality of waking up, grieving, and healing after 13 years inside the culty clutches of MLM life. Plus: why nearly 99% of recruits lose money, what really chaps Stefan’s ass about the so-called American Dream, and how true recovery means laughter, therapy, and building community with fellow ex-IBOs. Follow Stefan and Jenna on Instagram @ex.ibo. Also…let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business, individual, anyone or anything. Nobody’s mad at you, just don’t be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book here Check out our amazing sponsors Join A Little Bit Culty on Patreon Get poppin’ fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Check out our cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TED Talk and buy her memoir, Scarred CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Audio production: Will Retherford Production Coordinator: Lesli Dinsmore Writer: Sandra Nomoto Social media team: Eric Skwarzynski and Brooke Keane Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/culty. Use code CULTY at MonarchMoney.com in your browser for half off your first year. Go to GetSoul.com and use the code CULTY for 30% off. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    36 min
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About

Think you might be in a cult? Want to know the signs? Join Sarah Edmondson and Anthony “Nippy” Ames to talk about things that are..a little bit culty. Or in their case: a whole bunch of culty. As whistleblowers documented in the critically-acclaimed HBO series “The Vow,” Sarah and Nippy have a lot to say about their experience, and burning questions to ask people with similar stories. They’re here to help people understand, heal from, and avoid abusive situations one little red flag at a time. Listen in as they share their stories, have frank and unscripted conversations with other survivors and cult experts, and do a deep dive on how devotion can turn to dysfunction.

Information

  • Creator
    Sarah Edmondson & Anthony “Nippy” Ames
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    269
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © © 2022 A Little Bit Culty
  • Show Website
    A Little Bit Culty

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