IndoctriNation

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

https://education.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/restart-and-restore-campaign

Download a Free Chapter from Restart and Restore:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

BONUS PREVIEW: The Dark Side of Kundalini Yoga Dec 12, 2025

Show notes

This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination

In this exclusive Patreon bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein discusses the documentary 'Breath of Fire,' which explores the controversial Kundalini Yoga empire founded by Yogi Bhajan and later led by Guru Jagat. Directed by Hayley Papas and Smiley Stevens, the series sheds light on the origins, rise, and eventual exposure of abusive practices within the movement. The discussion highlights the documentary's revelations about financial exploitation, psychological and sexual abuse, and the manipulation of vulnerable individuals seeking spiritual healing. The episode shows the broader issues of commercialization and manipulation in spiritual communities, particularly in the age of social media. Listeners are urged to conduct thorough research and seek information from former members before getting involved in any spiritual organization.

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

https://education.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/restart-and-restore-campaign

Download a Free Chapter from Restart and Restore:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-gonzález-espejito-672007255

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Manipulation and the Manosphere with Francisco González Espejito Dec 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein is joined by Francisco González Espejito, a psychologist, lecturer, and researcher at the Autonomous University of Madrid. Francisco discusses his background in studying abuse and violence across various contexts, the influence of coercive control, and the rise of digital environments like the manosphere. They explore how pseudo-therapeutic groups manipulate their followers, the psychological mechanisms behind group influence, and the disturbing trend of self-harm communities on gaming platforms. The conversation underscores the complexities of modern-day coercion and the importance of awareness and protection against such systems.

Francisco’s Links

LinkedIn:

Research Group on Abuse and Violence in Interpersonal Relationships (Autonomous University of Madrid): https://www.uam.es/uam/investigacion/grupos-de-investigacion/detalle/f1-276

Research Group on Behavioral Analysis and Feminism (ACFEM, Universidad Europea de Madrid): https://acfeminvestigacion.com/

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

https://education.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/restart-and-restore-campaign

Download a Free Chapter from Restart and Restore:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Duck-Tattoo-Memoir/dp/1544548982

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

The Girl with the Duck Tattoo with Sarma Melngailis Dec 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Sarma Melngailis discusses her journey from running a successful New York-based restaurant to being in a highly publicized scandal. Sarma shares her personal experiences of manipulation and betrayal by a coercive partner, reflecting on how her story was misrepresented in the Netflix docuseries 'Bad Vegan.' She opens up about the challenges of reclaiming her narrative through her memoir, which provides deeper insights into her experiences, serving as both a cautionary tale and a source of solace for others. Sarma also explores the psychological tactics used by her abuser, the betrayal by the media, and the importance of sharing her true story to help others understand and navigate similar situations. The discussion delves into the emotional and physiological aftermath of such traumatic events and the path towards healing and awareness.

Sarma’s Links

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sarmamelngailis

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

BONUS PREVIEW: Attachment Styles and Cult Dynamics pt. 2 Nov 28, 2025

Show notes

This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination

In this Patreon exclusive bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein continues the discussion on attachment and attachment issues, focusing on common challenges faced by survivors of mistreatment, abandonment, and betrayal. The episode highlights behaviors such as fear of abandonment, anxious attachment, people-pleasing, and difficulty in trusting others. Strategies for developing secure attachment and maintaining healthy relationships are discussed, including practicing self-soothing, clear communication, and having a life outside the relationship. The importance of surrounding oneself with safe people and seeking support through counseling or support groups is also emphasized. The episode aims to provide listeners with tools and insights to better understand and manage their attachment styles.

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I Felt the End Before It Came with Daniel Allen Cox Nov 26, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Daniel Allen Cox, author of 'I Felt The End Before It Came: Memoirs of a Queer Ex-Jehovah's Witness.' Daniel shares his experiences growing up as a JW, the strict moral code, and the challenges he faced as a queer individual. He discusses the process of leaving the faith, the lack of support, and the journey towards self-acceptance and rebuilding his life. The conversation delves into the repeated failed predictions of Jehovah's Witnesses leaders, the emotional and social impact of being shunned, and the solidarity found outside the religious community. Daniel also talks about the writing of his memoir, the reception it received, and how it has created connections with others who have had similar experiences.

Daniel’s Links

Memoir: https://www.amazon.com/Felt-End-Before-Came-Ex-Jehovahs/dp/0735242100

Daniel’s Website https://www.danielallencox.net/

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

https://thepodcastconsultant.com/about

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Recognizing Reality: Surviving a Buddhist Cult with Rachel Montgomery Nov 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Rachel Montgomery, who recounts her harrowing journey as a survivor of a cult and sexual abuse within a Buddhist community. She describes how she was drawn into the group, the manipulative practices of the leader, and the emotional and psychological challenges she faced. She details the abuse she suffered under the guise of spiritual teachings, the devastating personal consequences, and the difficult path to recognizing the trauma for what it was. She outlines the process of seeking legal accountability, the resolution of her case, and how she has managed to reclaim her life. Her story is one of resilience, shedding light on the dark realities of cult manipulation and the arduous journey towards justice and healing.

Heartwood organization: https://www.heartwoodcenter.com/meditation/survivors-program/

McAllister Olivarius: https://mcolaw.com/

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

https://thepodcastconsultant.com/about

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

BONUS PREVIEW: Attachment Styles and Cult Dynamics pt. 1 Nov 14, 2025

Show notes

This is just a preview of our Patreon exclusive Bonus Episode. You can hear the full episode by becoming a member at:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination

This Patreon exclusive episode informs on the topic of attachment styles, particularly focusing on how cults and controlling relationships undermine healthy attachment. Rachel Bernstein examines different attachment styles: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized, and links them to early caregiver interactions and trauma. The discussion covers how cults intentionally disrupt these attachments, creating trauma bonds that complicate the process of leaving and recovering from such environments. The episode concludes with insights into the challenges survivors face in forming healthy relationships and reconnecting with loved ones.

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

https://thepodcastconsultant.com/about

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Seeking Justice: Consent and Coercion with Carol Merchasin Nov 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Carol Merchasin, a lawyer specializing in cases involving sexual misconduct in religious and spiritual communities. Carol discusses various aspects of legal battles against high-control groups, including the complexities of consent, the limitations of the legal system, and the role of psychological coercion. She highlights the differences between the criminal and civil justice systems and emphasizes the importance of legislative advocacy to extend statutes of limitations for sexual assault cases. Carol also underscores the importance of community support for survivors and the need for societal recognition of coercion's impact on consent. The conversation aims to educate and empower those affected by high-control environments, encouraging them to seek justice and support.

Book Mentioned: Know My Name by Chanel Miller: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/know-my-name_chanel-miller/26734292/item/53390881/

Heartwood Center: https://www.heartwoodcenter.com/meditation/survivors-program/

Carol’s Links

McAllister Olivarius:

https://mcolaw.com/team/carol-merchasin/

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:

Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:

Restart and Restore: A Journal for Survivors of Manipulation:

Restart and Restore: Companion Notebook:

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

The Complexity of Cult Recovery with Dr. Natalie Fabert Nov 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein talks with Dr. Natalie Fabert, an Associate Teaching Professor at Arizona State University and a licensed psychologist specializing in trauma and abuse, particularly cultic abuse. Natalie announces her collaboration with Dr. Janja Lalich and the Lalich Center on an online continuing education course designed for mental health clinicians to effectively support survivors of cult abuse and coercive control. Throughout the episode, Natalie discusses her journey into this area, the complexity of trauma recovery, and the importance of trauma-informed approaches in therapeutic settings. Rachel and Natalie highlight the need for specialized training for therapists and the significance of understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by survivors.

Dr. Fabert’s Links

CE Course: https://lalichcenterce.thinkific.com/courses/lalichcenterCE

Lalich Center: https://www.lalichcenter.org/

Dr. Fabert’s Website: https://www.drfabert.com/

Dr. Fabert’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drfabert/

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: