A Little Bit Culty

Through the NXIVM Lens: Photographer Bjorn Bolinder on V-Week, Branding, and Seeing the Light (Part 1)

Mar 2, 2026
Guest
Bjorn Bolinder
Bjorn Bolinder, photographer and performer who worked behind the scenes at NXIVM and shot V-Week, tells his story. He recalls how a Tourette’s conversation led him to sign up, the intense grind of photographing V-Week, and first impressions meeting Keith and feeling welcomed by the community. He also discusses the work-exchange realities and why certain people felt like green flags.
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ANECDOTE

How A Dating Conversation Led To Enrollment

  • Bjorn attended a five-day ESP intensive after meeting a coach who claimed the program cured his Tourette's, which convinced Bjorn to enroll despite cost concerns.
  • He went in ready to pay on credit, accepted the pitch, and expected powerful tools because of that kitchen conversation and the coach's testimonial.
ANECDOTE

Resistance Crushed By A Breakthrough Module

  • On day two or three of the five-day, Bjorn felt resistance and didn't want to return, but a module immediately dissolved his doubts and he recommitted.
  • He stayed mindful during breaks, meditated to retain himself, and later experienced a powerful EM session that produced visible change.
INSIGHT

Insta Relationships Fuel Quick Belonging

  • The New York City Center attracted actors, dancers, and 'heady' people, creating quick, intense connections that felt like instant friendships.
  • Bjorn called these 'Insta relationships' driven by shared commitment to growth rather than deep real-world foundations.
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