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Hidden Cults

Nik Hunter
  • 3.7 (3)
  • DOCUMENTARY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly. Listener stories always welcome. Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources 🧠Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.orgPhone: 📞 514-274-2333Email: infosecte@qc.aira.comCanada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support.

  1. Ep.52 Gloriavale Christian Community

    4D AGO

    Ep.52 Gloriavale Christian Community

    Gloriavale is a remote Christian community in New Zealand, built on strict belief, total commitment, and a system that controls daily life from work to family structure. Founded by Neville Cooper, it grew into a self-contained society where obedience, isolation, and shared labour became the foundation of everything. Behind that structure, former members describe abuse, exploitation, and a system that made leaving difficult. As legal challenges, investigations, and public scrutiny increased, the community faced growing pressure to change. Part 1 – Neville Cooper: Origins, Belief, and Authority (1930s–1969) Part 2 – Building the Community: Structure, Control, and Relocation (1969–1990s) Part 3 – Life Inside Gloriavale: Work, Family, and Isolation Part 4 – Abuse, Exploitation, and Legal Exposure (1990s–2020s) Part 5 – Collapse Pressure, Reform Claims, and Ongoing Reality From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly Listener stories always welcome Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.orgPhone: 📞 514-274-2333Email: infosecte@qc.aira.comCanada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support. This episode includes AI-generated content.

    30 min

  2. 4D AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Ep.52 Gloriavale Christian Community

    Gloriavale is a remote Christian community in New Zealand, built on strict belief, total commitment, and a system that controls daily life from work to family structure. Founded by Neville Cooper, it grew into a self-contained society where obedience, isolation, and shared labour became the foundation of everything. Behind that structure, former members describe abuse, exploitation, and a system that made leaving difficult. As legal challenges, investigations, and public scrutiny increased, the community faced growing pressure to change. Part 1 – Neville Cooper: Origins, Belief, and Authority (1930s–1969) Part 2 – Building the Community: Structure, Control, and Relocation (1969–1990s) Part 3 – Life Inside Gloriavale: Work, Family, and Isolation Part 4 – Abuse, Exploitation, and Legal Exposure (1990s–2020s) Part 5 – Collapse Pressure, Reform Claims, and Ongoing Reality From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly Listener stories always welcome Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families. Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations. The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse. Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education. FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities. United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers. RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors. Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources  Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.org Phone: 📞 514-274-2333 Email: infosecte@qc.aira.com Canada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse. Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control. Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families. Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support. Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults.

    30 min
  3. Ep.51 Hare Krishna Movement (ISKCON)

    APR 26

    Ep.51 Hare Krishna Movement (ISKCON)

    The Hare Krishna movement, also known as ISKCON, began with one man arriving in New York with a message rooted in devotion to Krishna. A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada built a global following through chanting, strict discipline, and communal living that drew in those searching for purpose during the counterculture era. As the movement expanded, it developed a defined way of life built around authority, routine, and total commitment. After Prabhupada’s death, leadership struggles, abuse allegations, and legal battles brought increasing scrutiny. This episode follows the rise of the Hare Krishna movement, what life was really like inside it, and how it changed under pressure from the outside world. Part 1 – A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada: Origins, Belief, and Mission (1896–1965) Part 2 – New York, Counterculture, and Rapid Expansion (1965–1977) Part 3 – Doctrine, Discipline, and Devotional Structure   Part 4 –  Power Struggles, Abuse Allegations, and Public Backlash (Late 1970s–1990s) Part 5 – Reform, Global Presence, and Modern Identity (2000s–Present)   From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly Listener stories always welcome Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.orgPhone: 📞 514-274-2333Email: infosecte@qc.aira.comCanada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support. This episode includes AI-generated content.

    36 min
  4. Ep.50 Alamo Christian Foundation

    APR 19

    Ep.50 Alamo Christian Foundation

    The Alamo Christian Foundation started in Hollywood in the late 1960s, offering faith, purpose, and community to those searching for direction. Over time, it became something far more controlled, built around the authority of Tony Alamo and a system that demanded complete obedience. Behind the image of salvation, former members describe isolation, strict control, and abuse that escalated over decades. This episode follows the rise of the group, the shift in power after Susan Alamo’s death, and the investigation that led to its collapse. Part 1 – Tony Alamo: Identity, Deception, and Formation (1934–1969) Part 2 – Recruitment, Expansion, and the Illusion of Salvation (1969–1982) Part 3 – Death, Power Shift, and Psychological Control (1982–Early 1990s) Part 4 – Violence, Control, and the Closed System (1990s)   Part 5 – Fugitive Leader, Polygamy, and Systemic Abuse (1990s–2000s) Part 6 – Exposure, Arrest, Conviction, and Legacy (2000s–Present) From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly Listener stories always welcome Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.orgPhone: 📞 514-274-2333Email: infosecte@qc.aira.comCanada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support. This episode includes AI-generated content.

    47 min
  5. Ep.49 Remnant Fellowship

    APR 12

    Ep.49 Remnant Fellowship

    Tonight’s episode explores the rise, transformation, and ongoing controversy surrounding the Remnant Fellowship. What began in the 1980s as a faith-based weight loss program called the Weigh Down Workshop would evolve into a global religious movement built on obedience, discipline, and the belief that putting God first could transform every aspect of life. At the center of it all was Gwen Shamblin Lara, a charismatic figure who drew in thousands with her message of spiritual surrender and control over desire. As her influence grew, so did the structure of the church, expanding into a tightly connected community with its own leadership, teachings, and way of life. But alongside that growth came increasing scrutiny. Former members described control, isolation, and pressure within the group, while critics pointed to controversies involving discipline, finances, and authority. The movement faced national attention following tragic events, including the 2003 child death case linked to members, and the sudden 2021 plane crash that killed Gwen and several key leaders.  Part 1 – Gwen Shamblin and the Weigh Down Workshop Part 2 – The Creation of Remnant Fellowship (1999–Early 2000s)  Part 3 – Beliefs, Control, and Life Inside the Church (2000s–2010s)   Part 4 – Expansion, Money, Media, and Public Attention (2000s–2021) Part 5 – The Plane Crash and Leadership Change (2021–2024) From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly Listener stories always welcome Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.orgPhone: 📞 514-274-2333Email: infosecte@qc.aira.comCanada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support. This episode includes AI-generated content.

    31 min

  6. APR 11 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Ep.49 Remnant Fellowship

    Tonight’s episode explores the rise, transformation, and ongoing controversy surrounding the Remnant Fellowship. What began in the 1980s as a faith-based weight loss program called the Weigh Down Workshop would evolve into a global religious movement built on obedience, discipline, and the belief that putting God first could transform every aspect of life. At the center of it all was Gwen Shamblin Lara, a charismatic figure who drew in thousands with her message of spiritual surrender and control over desire. As her influence grew, so did the structure of the church, expanding into a tightly connected community with its own leadership, teachings, and way of life. But alongside that growth came increasing scrutiny. Former members described control, isolation, and pressure within the group, while critics pointed to controversies involving discipline, finances, and authority. The movement faced national attention following tragic events, including the 2003 child death case linked to members, and the sudden 2021 plane crash that killed Gwen and several key leaders.  Part 1 – Gwen Shamblin and the Weigh Down Workshop Part 2 – The Creation of Remnant Fellowship (1999–Early 2000s)  Part 3 – Beliefs, Control, and Life Inside the Church (2000s–2010s)   Part 4 – Expansion, Money, Media, and Public Attention (2000s–2021) Part 5 – The Plane Crash and Leadership Change (2021–2024) From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly Listener stories always welcome Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families. Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations. The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse. Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education. FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities. United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers. RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors. Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources  Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.org Phone: 📞 514-274-2333 Email: infosecte@qc.aira.com Canada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse. Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control. Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families. Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and su

    31 min
  7. Ep.48 House of Prayer Cult (Achill Island)

    APR 5

    Ep.48 House of Prayer Cult (Achill Island)

    In this episode, we travel to Achill Island off the west coast of Ireland to examine the controversial religious movement known as the House of Prayer. Founded by Christina Gallagher, a woman who claimed to receive messages and visions from the Virgin Mary, the movement grew from small prayer meetings in the 1980s into an international following with pilgrims traveling from around the world. Followers believed Gallagher was chosen as a modern prophetess, delivering warnings, prophecies, and messages about the future of humanity. As the movement grew, so did the money, the properties, and the controversy. Donations, religious items, and apocalyptic warnings became central to the organization, while former members and critics began raising serious concerns about financial exploitation, control, and manipulation. Investigations, media exposés, legal battles, and public controversy followed, including later revelations that further damaged the movement’s reputation. Part 1 – The Making of Christina Gallagher (1953–1985)  Part 2 – Visions, Messages, and the Rise of a Visionary (1985–1993) Part 3 – The House of Prayer and the Growth of a Movement (1993–late 1990s) Part 4 – Church Conflict, Authority, and Separation (mid 1990s–2000s)   Part 5 – Wealth, Controversy, and Allegations (2000s–2020s)   Part 6 – Legacy, Belief, and Ongoing Influence (2020s–present)   From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly Listener stories always welcome Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.orgPhone: 📞 514-274-2333Email: infosecte@qc.aira.comCanada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support. This episode includes AI-generated content.

    34 min
  8. Ep.47 Universe People

    MAR 29

    Ep.47 Universe People

    In this episode we travel to the Czech Republic to explore one of the strangest UFO cults to emerge in modern Europe. Known as the Universe People, or the Cosmic People of Light Powers, the movement began in the 1990s when a man named Ivo A. Benda claimed he was in telepathic contact with extraterrestrial beings from distant star systems who were guiding humanity toward a spiritual transformation. Part 1 – The Making of Ivo A. Benda (1960s–1997) Part 2 – The Birth of the Universe People (1997–early 2000s)  Part 3 – Life Inside the Movement (late 1990s–2000s)  Part 4 – Expansion, Media Attention, and Public Reaction (late 1990s–2007)    Part 5 – Criticism, Decline, and Loss of Influence (2000s–2010s)   Part 6 – Aftermath, Legacy, and Modern Presence (2010s–present)  From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly Listener stories always welcome Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.orgPhone: 📞 514-274-2333Email: infosecte@qc.aira.comCanada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support. This episode includes AI-generated content.

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

3.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place. New episodes weekly. Listener stories always welcome. Anonymity guaranteed. Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com International Resources International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) https://www.icsahome.com Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.Open Minds Foundation https://www.openmindsfoundation.org Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse) https://www.thehotline.org 📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan) https://freedomofmind.com Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.FaithTrust Institute https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.United States Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA) 📞 1-239-514-3081 Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) https://www.rainn.org 📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.Canada  Cult & Trauma Support Resources 🧠Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.orgPhone: 📞 514-274-2333Email: infosecte@qc.aira.comCanada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French. United Kingdom The Family Survival Trust https://familysurvivaltrust.org Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.Cults Information Centre and Family Support https://cults.org.uk UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.Mind UK (Mental Health Support) https://www.mind.org.uk 📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.Australia Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) https://www.cifs.org.au National support for individuals and families affected by cults. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support.

Information

  • Creator
    Nik Hunter
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Nik Hunter
  • Show Website
    Hidden Cults
  • Provider
    Nicholas Hunter

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