The Cult Vault

Latest Episodes:

S3 E34 His Way Ministries - Granddaughter of a Pro-Life Activist and Cult Leader May 11, 2025

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In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey speaks with Emily, a third-generation cult survivor whose grandfather was the leader of His Way Ministries. Emily shares her journey from a life devoid of love and support within the cult to finding freedom and happiness. The conversation delves into the origins of His Way Ministries, the nature of cult leadership, family dynamics, and the impact of pro-life activism on her upbringing. Emily reflects on her childhood experiences, the transition to rural life, and the challenges of education in isolation, providing a poignant insight into the complexities of growing up in a cult.
Emily's TikTok - @emilyclede
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S3 E33 Animal Abuse and Power: What You Are Not Being Told May 04, 2025

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In this episode of the Cult Vault Podcast, host Kacey speaks with Maya Badham, founder of Safeguarding Human and Animal Survivors of Sexual and Domestic Abuse (SAHSDA), about the intersection of animal cruelty and coercive control in domestic abuse. They explore how animals are used as tools of manipulation and control, the cultural contexts of animal abuse, and the importance of recognising these issues in the broader conversation about human rights and violence. Maya shares her unique career path and insights into the systemic issues surrounding animal and human abuse, emphasising the need for a coordinated response to these intertwined problems.
www.crimecon.co.uk - code CULT for 10% off tickets!
Home | SAHSDA Safeguarding human and animal survivors domestic abuse sexual abuse
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Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

S3 E32 The Source Family: In Conversation with Father Yod's Daughter-in-Law Apr 27, 2025

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In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey speaks with Wendy Baker, a former member of the Source Family and daughter-in-law to the leader, about her experiences growing up in the counterculture movement of the 1960s, her relationship with the charismatic leader Jim Baker, and her life in the Source Family commune. Wendy shares insights from her memoir, 'My Name Was Mushroom,' detailing her transition from a typical teenager to a member of a spiritual community, the dynamics of communal living, and the impact of their beliefs on their daily lives. The conversation explores themes of identity, spirituality, and the complexities of life within a cult-like environment.
My Name Was Mushroom: My Life as a Teenage Runaway in The Source Family Commune: https://amzn.eu/d/hZgKSkx
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Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
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Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

S3 E31 Born and Razed: In Conversation with Beth Granger Apr 20, 2025

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In this episode of the Cult Vault Podcast, host Kacey speaks with author Beth Granger, a cult survivor and representative plaintiff in a landmark class action lawsuit against her abusers. Beth shares her experiences growing up in Grenville Christian College, a cult disguised as a school, and discusses the challenges of recovery and the importance of sharing stories of those born and raised in cults. The conversation delves into the impact of cult life on identity, the challenges of publishing a memoir, connections to the troubled teen industry, coercive control tactics, purity culture, family dynamics, and the journey of healing.
Beth's Book:
Amazon.com: Born and Razed : Surviving the Cult Was Only Half the Battle eBook : Granger, Beth: Books
Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
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Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

S3 E30 The Reluctant Apostate: In Conversation with Lloyd Evans Apr 13, 2025

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In this episode of the Cult Vault Podcast, host Kacey speaks with Lloyd Evans, a former Jehovah's Witness and current activist, about his journey out of the organisation and the complexities of Jehovah's Witness beliefs. They discuss the history of the Jehovah's Witnesses, the impact of indoctrination on children, and the challenges faced by those who leave the faith, including rapture anxiety. Lloyd shares insights on how to support children from different belief systems and the importance of compassion and understanding. The discussion also touches on the dynamics within survivor communities and the importance of constructive dialogue in healing and understanding.
Lloyd's Books, Websites and YouTube:
The Reluctant Apostate: Leaving Jehovah's Witnesses Comes at a Price: https://amzn.eu/d/4BEY6Jj
How to Escape From Jehovah's Witnesses: https://amzn.eu/d/g4gaJ9G
www.jwwatch.org
www.youtube.com/@LloydEvans
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Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault
Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

S3 E29 In Conversation with Shanny Pants! Apr 06, 2025

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In this episode, Shannon Payton AKA Shanny Pants shares her journey of growing up in a high-control religious cult, her experiences navigating life outside of it, and the challenges of parenting while healing from past trauma. She discusses the impact of her upbringing on her identity, relationships, and mental health, as well as the importance of psychoeducation in her recovery process. In this conversation, Shanny Payton shares her journey of healing from trauma, navigating relationships post-cult, and the challenges of marriage and parenthood. She emphasises the importance of humor in her healing process and discusses the support she has found in her community. Shanny also reflects on her experiences with social media and the impact of negative comments, while offering wisdom for those recovering from trauma.
Shanny's Show - ShannyPantsShowWebsite
Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

S3 E28 Peace Educator, Author... CULT LEADER? Maharaji/Prem Rawat Mar 30, 2025

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In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey speaks with Don Johnson, who shares his journey from being a follower of Prem Rawat to becoming an instructor within the suspected cult. Don discusses his initial attraction to the teachings, the experiences that led him deeper into the organisation, and the cognitive dissonance he faced as he began to question the integrity of his leader. He reflects on his eventual disengagement from the suspected cult, the healing process, and the importance of critical thinking. Don also offers advice for others who may be navigating similar experiences and emphasises the need for support and resources.
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/
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Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-Vault
Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

S3 E27 The Troubled Teen Industry: CEDU Mar 23, 2025

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In this episode of the Cult Vault Podcast, host Kacey speaks with Kari Bunn, a survivor of the troubled teen industry, specifically the CEDU reform school. They discuss the historical context of CEDU, its connections to the cult Synanon, and the broader troubled teen industry. Kari shares her experiences and insights into the psychological manipulation and abuse that can occur in these institutions, as well as the importance of raising awareness through media and survivor stories. The conversation also touches on the complexities of distinguishing between non-abusive and abusive schools, the impact of influential figures like Liam Scheff, and the ongoing struggle for survivors to find closure and advocate for change. In this conversation, Kari Bunn shares her personal experiences with troubled teen programs, particularly CEDU, and discusses the complexities of survivor narratives. She reflects on the impact of unrecognized pain and the importance of accountability in the troubled teen industry. Kari also talks about her documentary project, the challenges of engaging with the survivor community, and the need for a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggles of survivors and the importance of raising awareness about the troubled teen industry.
Kari's other media appearances:
Straight Outta BS Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=reIUF2VxmMk8A2ZU&v=bnpIgc2Qa9k&feature=youtu.be
Anne L. Peterson's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=ZAc4eXcxtDYG7n_p&v=Z1U3EHIh5po&feature=youtu.be
Kari's Website - http://www.cedudocumentary.com
Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
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Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

S3 E26 Students of Light: Kidnapped in Plain Sight Mar 16, 2025

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*TRIGGER WARNING THIS EPISODE CONTAINS THEMES OF CHILD ABUSE. LISTEN WITH CAUTION!!!*
In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, host Kacey speaks with Brenda Blais, who shares her harrowing experiences of childhood sexual abuse within the cult-like environment of the Students of Light. Brenda recounts her introduction to the group at a young age, the manipulative tactics employed by its leader, Don Kollmar, and the profound impact of the abuse on her life. The conversation delves into themes of control, isolation, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of trauma.
http://chasingenlightenment.net
Brenda Blais (@riseupsurvivor) • Instagram photos and videos
Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2025 https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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Gmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

S3 E25 Inside the Bride of Christ Cult Mar 09, 2025

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In this episode of the Cult Vault Podcast, host Kacey speaks with Zacch Comfort, creator of the Boiled Frogs podcast, which explores the cult he grew up in. They discuss the origins of the cult, the abusive dynamics within it, and the impact on children raised in such an environment.
Zacch shares personal stories about his family's involvement, the control exerted by the cult leader, and the harsh realities of life in the commune, including labor expectations and limited education. The conversation delves into the psychological manipulation and isolation tactics used to maintain control over members, as well as the long-lasting effects of such experiences.
Boiled Frogs Podcast - Apple Podcasts
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

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