The Cult Vault

Vault Productions
The Cult Vault

Award Nominated Podcast. Long-Form Interview-Based Show Focusing on True Testimonies of Cult Survivors & Experts. Also Features Deep-Dive Research Episodes.

  1. FEB 2

    S3 E20 Extreme Evangelicalism in the Modern Age

    In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey speaks with Cynane Shay, who shares her journey growing up in a fundamentalist evangelical Christian household. Cynane discusses the influence of her family's beliefs on her education, the impact of purity culture, and her experiences with the Institute for Basic Life Principles (IBLP). She reflects on her college years, the gradual shift in her perspectives, and how the pandemic played a role in her personal growth and understanding of her upbringing. In this conversation, Cynane Shay shares her journey of political disillusionment and the impact of conspiracy theories on her family dynamics. She reflects on her inability to vote during the 2016 election due to conflicting beliefs about the candidates and discusses how her family's increasing obsession with Trump and conspiracy theories affected her perspective. The conversation delves into the rise of QAnon, the influence of COVID-19 on beliefs, and the challenges faced during her wedding planning amidst political tensions. Ultimately, Cynane describes her process of breaking free from indoctrination and finding clarity in her beliefs. In this conversation, Cynane Shay discusses the psychological underpinnings of conspiracy theories and cults, exploring how individuals seek order in chaotic environments. She connects the rise of conspiracy beliefs to white Christian nationalism and the psychological control mechanisms at play. The discussion also touches on the decline of religious influence in America and the hope for a more rational future as more people move away from dogmatic beliefs. Get in Touch or Support:  Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault Crimecon UK 2025 https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

    1h 42m
  2. JAN 26

    S3 E19 Abortion Rights in America

    In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, Dr. Warren Hern, a prominent abortion provider, discusses his extensive career in women's healthcare, the evolution of abortion access since 1975, and the current political landscape affecting reproductive rights. He highlights the psychological toll on women seeking abortions, the threats faced by providers, and the implications of restrictive legislation on healthcare access. Dr. Hern emphasises the importance of Colorado's pro-choice stance and reflects on the future of abortion access in the United States amidst growing political challenges. In this conversation, Dr. Hern discusses the current state of abortion rights and women's healthcare in America, emphasising the challenges posed by political climates and the importance of safe abortion access. He shares insights on the role of healthcare providers, the impact of personal experiences on women's health, and the generational perspectives on women's rights. The conversation highlights the urgency of advocating for reproductive rights amidst a backdrop of increasing restrictions and societal pressures. Dr. Hern's Book - Abortion in the Age of Unreason: A Doctor's Account of Caring for Women Get in Touch or Support:  Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault Crimecon UK 2025 https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

    42 min
  3. JAN 19

    S3 E18 A Cult of Many Names: Julius Schacknow/Lord Julius/Brother Julius/The Work Cult

    In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey speaks with Sarah Darmofalski, a former member of the Lord Julius cult. Sarah shares her experiences growing up in the cult, the origins of the group, and the psychological impact it had on her and her family. The conversation delves into the cult's structure, daily life, and the challenges of maintaining relationships outside the group. Sarah discusses the identity changes imposed by the cult, the rituals they practiced, and the emotional turmoil of being kicked out and later returning. The episode provides a deep insight into the complexities of cult dynamics and the lasting effects on individuals and families. In this conversation, Sarah shares her experiences growing up in a cult, the challenges of navigating her identity, and the impact on her mental health and family dynamics. She discusses the struggles of reconciling her past with her present, the effects of cult involvement on relationships, and the shocking reality of violence within cults. Sarah emphasises the importance of healing and finding support, offering hope to others who have experienced similar situations. SUPPORT | The Family Survival Inside The Work, an Abusive Connecticut Sex Cult Get in Touch or Support:  Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault Crimecon UK 2025 https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

    59 min
  4. JAN 5

    S3 E16 Paradise Undone: Jim Jones, Jonestown and the Peoples Temple

    In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey interviews author Annie Dawid about her book 'Paradise Undone: A Novel of Jonestown,' which explores the complex history of Jonestown and the Peoples Temple. Annie discusses her motivations for writing the book, the challenges of portraying the racial and political context of the time, and the importance of understanding the events surrounding Jonestown. The conversation also highlights the role of the Jonestown Institute in preserving history and educating the public about the tragic events that unfolded in Guyana. In this conversation, Annie Dawid discusses her journey into the world of cults, particularly focusing on the Peoples Temple and the Jonestown massacre. She shares her personal experiences that sparked her interest in cults, the evolution of public awareness regarding cults over the years, and the surprising revelations she encountered during her research. Dawid emphasises the complexity of the Jonestown tragedy, highlighting the human stories behind the statistics and the importance of understanding the psychological manipulation involved. She also reflects on her long journey to publication, encouraging persistence in the face of challenges. Annie's Book - https://amzn.eu/d/hHOdbS7  Bookfinder - https://www.bookfinder.com/ Get in Touch or Support:  Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault Crimecon UK 2025 https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

    1h 12m
  5. 12/29/2024

    S3 E15 Broken Trust: Spiritual Abuse and How to Recover

    In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey speaks with Remy, a former pastor and author, about the critical issues of spiritual abuse and toxic faith. Remy shares his journey from pastoring to writing about these topics, inspired by his experiences and the stories of others. The conversation delves into the definitions of toxic faith and spiritual abuse, the role of leadership in perpetuating these issues, and the signs of coercive behaviour in spiritual communities. Remy emphasises the importance of compassion and understanding for those navigating spiritual crises and the impact of toxic faith on relationships.  The episode concludes with insights on how to approach healing and the journey back to faith. In this conversation, Remy and Kacey delve into the complexities of spiritual abuse and toxic faith within religious communities. They discuss the importance of recognizing conditional love in faith settings, the steps to recover from spiritual abuse, and how to create healthier environments in churches. Remy shares insights from his book 'Broken Trust', emphasising the need for education and openness in addressing these issues. The conversation also touches on the reactions from church leaders and congregants, the importance of supporting loved ones experiencing spiritual abuse, and the resources available for survivors. Ultimately, they highlight the significance of generosity and understanding in faith communities, and Remy's reflections on his journey and future plans. Remy's Book - Broken Trust - Broken Trust: …a practical guide to identify and recover from toxic faith, toxic church, and spiritual abuse Get in Touch or Support:  Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault Crimecon UK 2025 https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPod Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

    1 hr
4.5
out of 5
196 Ratings

About

Award Nominated Podcast. Long-Form Interview-Based Show Focusing on True Testimonies of Cult Survivors & Experts. Also Features Deep-Dive Research Episodes.

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