Ep.#71 Joel Crosby -Potter's House

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Summary

In this episode, Joel Crosby shares his harrowing journey growing up in the Potter's House, a church with cult-like characteristics. He discusses the manipulative tactics used by the church, including military-style boot camps and pastoral manipulation that led to his estrangement from his father. Crosby highlights the struggles he faced with bullying and identity, and how these experiences shaped his decision to leave the church. He also talks about his motivation to write a book to expose the church's practices and share the stories of other survivors. In this conversation, Joel Crosby shares his harrowing experience of leaving the Potter's House cult, detailing the emotional and psychological struggles he faced. He discusses the process of excommunication, the shocking revelations about the pastor's misconduct, and the eventual confrontation that led to his departure. Joel emphasizes the importance of understanding religious trauma and the need for specialized support for former cult members. He also highlights his efforts to help others through his nonprofit organization and offers valuable advice for those considering leaving a cult.

Joel's Contact Info.

Joel's Book Link

Joel's Facebook Group

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Joel's Website

Cultimatum Contact Info.

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Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

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Ep. #70 From Cult to Creativity: Micah's Journey Out of JW's

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Micah Losh shares his harrowing journey as a former Jehovah's Witness. He discusses the impact of growing up in a high-control environment, the trauma of losing his father, and the struggles with mental health and identity that followed. Micah reflects on the challenges of grieving within a cult, the consequences of teenage rebellion, and the painful experience of being disfellowshipped. Through his story, he highlights the importance of healing through art and the complexities of belief and doubt in the context of his upbringing. In this conversation, Micah Allen Losh shares his journey of breaking free from the Jehovah's Witnesses, navigating struggles with relationships, mental health, and substance abuse, and ultimately embracing atheism. He discusses the challenges he faced, including being shunned, coping with a difficult marriage, and the impact of the pandemic on his mental state. Micah also reflects on his experiences in recovery, the difficulties he encountered in Alcoholics Anonymous, and the importance of finding supportive environments. He concludes with advice for those questioning their beliefs or involved in similar groups.

takeaways

• Micah was born into a Jehovah's Witness family and faced strict control.
• He experienced severe trauma after the death of his father.
• Grieving was not allowed in the Jehovah's Witness community.
• Teenage rebellion led to significant consequences for Micah.
• He struggled with mental health issues, including depression and suicidal thoughts.
• Disfellowshipping left him feeling isolated and rejected.
• Micah's journey involved a quest for acceptance and understanding.

Micah's Info.

Micah's website

Cultimatum Contact Info.

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

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Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

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Ep. #69 Confessions of a Former Adventist: Alisa’s Truth

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody engage with Elisa, a former member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Elisa shares her personal journey growing up in a strict religious environment, the influence of Ellen White, the church's teachings on sin and forgiveness, and the challenges of gender roles within the church. The conversation delves into the psychological impact of cult-like dynamics, the trauma experienced in Adventist education, and the complexities of marriage and community within the faith. Elisa's story highlights the struggles of leaving a tightly controlled belief system and the journey towards healing and self-discovery. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of leaving a controlling religious environment, specifically focusing on the experiences within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. They discuss the legal battles faced, the emotional toll of spiritual abuse, and the challenges of rebuilding trust in relationships and faith. The conversation also touches on parenting through these transitions and offers advice for those questioning their own beliefs.

Alisa's Contact Info & Links:

Alisa's Facebook Link

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Alisa's Blog Link

Cultimatum Contact Info. & Links:

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Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

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Ep. #68 Recruitment & Indoctrination In The World Mission Society Church of God

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In this episode of the Cultimatum Podcast, hosts Anonymous Andrew and Melody welcome Edgar Loera, a former member of the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG). Edgar shares his personal journey of joining the cult at a young age, the manipulative recruitment tactics used by the organization, and the indoctrination process that isolates members from their families. He discusses the teachings of WMSCOG, including the belief in the second coming of Jesus and the importance of the Passover, and highlights the psychological control mechanisms that keep members trapped. In this conversation, Edgar shares his experiences with the World Mission Society Church of God, detailing the church's origins, its leadership dynamics, financial practices, and his personal journey of deconstruction from the cult. He discusses the teachings of Ahn Sahng-hong, the church's evolution, and the challenges he faced in reconciling his faith after leaving. Edgar emphasizes the importance of recognizing red flags in organizations and encourages thorough investigation before committing to any group.

takeaways

• Edgar joined WMSCOG at 18, influenced by a friend.
• The church uses fear tactics to recruit members.
• Indoctrination is rapid and manipulative.

Edgar's Contact Info & Links:

Edgar's YouTube Link

Edgar's Instagram Link

Edgar's TikTok Link

Edgar's Facebook Link

Cultimatum Contact Info. & Links:

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Cultimatum Facebook Group

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Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

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or visit

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Ep.#67 Unveiling the Hare Krishna With Vanessa

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Vanessa Wilde shares her harrowing experiences growing up in the Hare Krishna movement. Separated from her parents at a young age, she recounts the indoctrination, abuse, and neglect she faced in Gurukul schools. Vanessa discusses the impact of these experiences on her life, her defiance against the oppressive teachings, and the struggle to reclaim her narrative. The conversation sheds light on the darker aspects of cult life and the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma. In this conversation, Vanessa Wilde shares her tumultuous journey growing up in the Hare Krishna movement, detailing her experiences of rebellion, control, and eventual escape from the cult. She reflects on her childhood, the challenges of navigating the real world after leaving, and the healing process that followed. Vanessa discusses her relationship with her parents, the impact of their decisions, and her current spiritual beliefs, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and personal sovereignty.

takeaways

• Vanessa was separated from her parents at a young age.
• The Hare Krishna movement promoted family separation as a virtue.
• Gurukul schools were intended to focus children on devotion to God.
• Many children experienced severe abuse in these schools.
• The indoctrination included harmful gender roles and subservience.
• Vanessa became defiant and protective of her younger brother.
• She organized a group of girls to plan their escape.
• Public images of the Hare Krishna movement often masked the abuse.

Vanessa's Contact Info. & Links:

Vanessa's Facebook Link

Vanessa's Instagram Link

Vanessa's TikTok Link

Cultimatum Contact Info. & Links:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

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Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

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or visit

www.anonymousandrewpodcast.com

Ep. #66 Escaping Ariel Ben Sherman: Jeremy’s Life Inside and Beyond the Cult

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, host Anonymous Andrew and co-host Melody interview Jeremy Paskell , a survivor of the Good Shepherd Tabernacle cult. Jeremy shares his harrowing experiences growing up in the cult, detailing the extreme punishments, the cult leader's lavish lifestyle, and the psychological manipulation that kept members in line. He discusses the impact of family separation, the role of women in the cult, and the neglect and abuse that occurred. The conversation highlights the complexities of cult life and the long-lasting effects on survivors. In this conversation, Jeremy shares his harrowing experiences growing up in a cult, detailing the kindness he encountered amidst chaos, the false promises of a better life, and the severe punishments inflicted on children. He recounts the traumatic events leading to a police raid that rescued him and other children, his subsequent life in foster care, and the challenges of navigating life after such trauma. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of kindness and resilience, offering advice to those still trapped in similar situations.

takeaways

• Jeremy was born into the cult and has early memories from age three.
• The cult leader, Ariel Ben Sherman, preached that only their group would ascend to heaven.
• Living conditions included extreme punishments and neglect.
• The cult leader lived a lavish lifestyle funded by the followers' hard work.
• Jeremy's mother was expelled from the cult, leading to significant trauma.
• The cult employed tactics to isolate members from their families.
• There were instances of child abuse and neglect within the cult.

Jeremy's Contact Info. & Links:

Jeremy's TikTok Link

Jeremy's Instagram Link

Cultimatum Contact Info. & Links:

Email: cultimatumpodcast@gmail.com

Cultimatum Facebook Group

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Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

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or visit

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#65 Shunned at 10: Tim's Aftermath from Jehovah's Witnesses

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In this episode of the Cultimatum podcast, Tim shares his harrowing journey as a former Jehovah's Witness who was shunned at the age of 10. He discusses the impact of growing up in a strict religious environment, the trauma of being ostracized, and the struggles he faced with identity, acceptance, and mental health. Tim opens up about his experiences with bullying, childhood abuse, and the challenges of navigating life after leaving the faith. He reflects on the role of the Governing Body in the Jehovah's Witnesses and the lasting effects of his upbringing on his relationships and self-worth. In this conversation, Tim shares his journey from a troubled youth involved in petty crimes and substance abuse to a path of recovery and self-discovery. He discusses the impact of his upbringing in a Jehovah's Witness community, his struggles with relationships and parenting, and the challenges of navigating mental health issues, including autism and agoraphobia. Tim reflects on his entrepreneurial spirit, career evolution, and the importance of therapy in understanding his past and building a better future. He emphasizes the need for critical thinking and personal growth, particularly for those who have experienced cult-like environments.

Tim's Contact Info. & Links:

Tim's Website Link

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Cultimatum Contact Info. & Links:

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Cult Escape & Recovery Support Group

Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

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Ep. #64 Brandon Salo: Poison into Medicine – Leaving the House of Yahweh

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In this conversation, Brandon Salo shares his profound journey as a survivor of the House of Yahweh cult. He discusses his early life, the impact of his parents' divorce, and how he was introduced to the cult by his father. Brandon elaborates on the strict rules and gender dynamics within the cult, including the introduction of polygamy and the treatment of women. He recounts his experiences with relationships, the final straw that led him to leave the cult, and his subsequent journey towards healing and personal growth. In this conversation, Brandon shares his profound journey through grief and loss following the deaths of his father and mother, both of whom died by suicide. He reflects on the impact of these tragedies on his life and the complexities of family dynamics, particularly in relation to mental health issues. Brandon discusses his experiences with the House of Yahweh, the challenges of critical thinking within such environments, and the importance of honesty in personal growth. He also emphasizes the value of community and support for those who have left high-control groups, and he offers insights into defining faith beyond organized religion.

takeaways

• Brandon was born in Michigan in 1985 and faced early family turmoil.
• His father introduced him to the House of Yahweh after a divorce.
• Brandon experienced indoctrination and strict rules within the cult.
• He had a longing to live with his father despite custody struggles.
• The cult's rules became increasingly strict, especially regarding women.
• Brandon's relationships were heavily controlled by the cult's elders.
• He left the cult at 18 after a significant confrontation.
• Brandon struggled with depression and anxiety after leaving the cult.
• He aimed to tell his story fairly, without placing blame.

A Link to Brandon's Book

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Anonymous Andrew Podcast Studios Contact Info. & Links:

Email: anonymousandrewpodcast@gmail.com

or visit

www.anonymousandrewpodcast.com