Cults and the Culting of America
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.
Recognize Coercive Patterns of Control
Oct 18
This is not a trauma-🌽 cult podcast—Daniella’s unique perspective as a third-gen cult-kid offers much more than novelty. Where most post-cult entertainment content focuses heavily on the joiners—‘how could they ever?!’—Daniella’s work focuses on the cult-like patterns that *perpetrators* exhibit. Which is to say, the focus is directed in the correct direction. This, crucially, allows us a clear view of who these harmful leaders are and how we can arm ourselves against the tactics they and many other everyday people will seek to use against us. If you’re looking for something different than the standard “oops I realized it was a cult” podcast and are looking for something you can truly learn from, THIS IS IT.
Important and Timely Information
Aug 7
The discussion here is substantial. Daniella and host Scot are both cult survivors. They generate fascinating discussion that forces us to confront the various human psychological weaknesses that lead to cult formation. Important as our nation is now under threat from a cult of tens of millions of believers in a man who tried to steal the 2020 election and will likely try again. Scary stuff for sure. Which explains the spooky intro music. Great work guys, thank you!
Ope!
Jul 25
So many good little nuggets in this podcast! I finally feel seen!! I didn’t quite have words for why I do the things I do. Calling out racism when I see it, focused on being a real ally for marginalized groups, and looking different than the others in my small town. Just a midwestern girl over here trying to grow beyond the confines of my culty state, my culty town, my culty family. Using midwestern nice as a secret weapon for teaching growth where I can. Thank you Daniella for using your voice and giving words to my thoughts. Now, get out of my head! 😊💛🥰
About
Information
- CreatorDaniella Claire Mestyanek Young and Scot Loyd
- Years Active2K
- Episodes21
- RatingExplicit
- Copyright© 2024
- Show Website
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