IndoctriNation

IndoctriNation
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Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 14min

AUM: The Cult at the End of the World with Chiaki Yanagimoto

In this episode, host Rachel Bernstein introduces Chiaki Yanagimoto, a prominent Japanese-born filmmaker based in LA, known for her work in documentaries and independent cinema. In their conversation, Chiaki discusses her documentary 'AUM: The Cult at the End of the World,' exploring the catastrophic impact of the Aum Shinrikyo cult and its leader Shoko Asahara on Japanese society. She delves into the group's formation, rise, and infamy post the 1995 Tokyo Subway sarin attack. The episode touches on the mechanisms of manipulative control within cults, their societal impacts, and the ongoing relevance of these themes in the modern world. Chiaki shares her connection to the event, the complexities of cult psychology, and the making of the documentary, offering profound insights and reflections on the necessity of exposing such narratives.AUM: The Cult at the End of the Worldhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt24076636/?ref_=mv_closeChiaki’s website: https://www.synepicentertainment.com/infoConnect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Aug 8, 2025 • 6min

BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Long-Term Recovery from a Cult pt. 1

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 bonus episode focuses on the intricate and multifaceted journey of recovering from cultic experiences. Rachel Bernstein addresses questions about the timeline for recovery and emphasizes that it varies greatly among individuals. The episode explores the profound psychological, emotional, social, and political impacts of cult involvement, including identity suppression, cognitive distortions, and internalized control mechanisms. Key topics include the reconstruction of the authentic self, the role of self-compassion, and the importance of professional support and community. The episode also covers the extensive and deep-seated trauma associated with cults, highlighting the pervasive shame, self-alienation, and the internal persecutor that survivors often face. Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 14min

Forager: Field Notes for Surviving a Family Cult with Michelle Dowd

In this episode of IndoctriNation, host Rachel Bernstein talks with Michelle Dowd, author of 'Forager: Field Notes for Surviving a Family Cult.’ Michelle recounts her upbringing in an apocalyptic cult led by her grandfather, her struggles with an autoimmune disease, and her eventual escape and journey to independence. Through these experiences, Michelle examines the intense psychological challenges of leaving a controlling environment, the process of reclaiming her identity, and the importance of developing personal connections and emotional self-awareness. She also discusses her work in helping others heal and reconnect with themselves and nature. This poignant episode sheds light on the complexities of breaking free from indoctrinated systems and finding personal liberation.Buy Michelle’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Forager-Field-Surviving-Family-Memoir/dp/1643755773/ref=sr_1_1Michelle’s Substack: https://mdowd.substack.com/subscribeMichelle’s Website: https://www.michelledowd.org/Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 16min

From Wellness to Warnings with Hayley Krischer

In this episode, Rachel Bernstein discusses the intricacies and potential dangers of the wellness industry with Hayley Krischer, an award-winning journalist and author. They dive deep into topics such as evaluating safe therapy, recognizing red flags in mental health care, and Hayley’s latest YA book, 'You Belong to Me,' which explores the influence of cult-like wellness companies. She shares insights on how wellness platforms manipulate individuals, particularly teenagers, through tactics like love bombing and fearmongering. The episode also touches on the deceptive nature of celebrity-endorsed wellness products and the rise of conspiracy theories within the wellness community. Rachel and Hayley emphasize the importance of being a smart consumer, researching products, and understanding the psychological tactics used in the wellness industry to avoid potential harm.Hayley Krischer’s website: https://www.hayleykrischer.net/Unwell Netflix Documentary https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=95241fdefef2b57cf92ecb0b56ab013e4592ba0f07a790fe1a95bb2f8039823fJmltdHM9MTc1MDcyMzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=2db64477-f90b-68b7-2495-518cf8dd6962&psq=unwell+netflix+documentary&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubmV0ZmxpeC5jb20vdGl0bGUvODEwNDQyMDg&ntb=1Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Jul 25, 2025 • 7min

BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Navigating the Digital Abyss: Online Cults pt. 2

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/indoctrinationIn this continuation of our Patreon exclusive bonus episode, Rachel Bernstein delves into the disturbing world of online cults and their sophisticated mechanisms of coercion and exploitation. The discussion highlights the psychological manipulation, blackmail, and social pressures that drive victims, including minors, to self-harm or harm others to gain status within these toxic groups. The episode underscores the critical need for early detection, proactive protection, and specialized mental health support to navigate the long-term consequences for victims. The episode concludes with resources on dealing with online exploitation.Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutResourcesIntelligence Notification: Violent online communities threaten children: https://www.europol.europa.eu/media-press/newsroom/news/intelligence-notification-violent-online-communities-threaten-childrenVIOLENT ONLINE GROUPS: https://www.whitecapdakota.com/Violent-Online-Groups-Exploiting-Children-and-Youth---Public-Awareness-Sheet.pdfThe rise of online cult communities dedicated to extremely violent child abuse - Europol: https://www.europol.europa.eu/cms/sites/default/files/documents/IN_The_rise_of_online_cult_communities_dedicated_to_extremely_violent_child_abuse.pdfAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 16min

Religious Reality: Inside the World of Jehovah’s Witnesses with Lara Kaput

In this insightful episode, Rachel Bernstein interviews Lara Kaput, a whistleblower and former Jehovah's Witness. Lara shares her journey from being born into the Jehovah's Witnesses to leaving at 19 and becoming an advocate for survivors of abuse within the organization. She discusses the emotional, psychological, and financial toll of being a whistleblower, including the lack of governmental and community support. Kaput also addresses issues like modern slavery, social isolation, and mental health challenges faced by Jehovah's Witnesses. The conversation highlights the power of speaking out, the underlying fear and control mechanisms within the group, and the importance of government submissions and witness testimonies in bringing about change.Inquiry into the recruitment methods and impacts of cults and organised fringe groups: https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/cofg#:~:text=Snapshot%20of%20inquiry,about%20protecting%20people%20from%20harmConnect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 16min

Unmasking Narcissism: The Hidden Truths of Manipulation with Dr. Peter Salerno

In this enlightening episode, Rachel welcomes back Dr. Peter Salerno, a trauma specialist and award-winning author, for a deep dive into the complexities of narcissism and its manifestations in both children and adults. Building on their previous conversation, they explore the intricacies of identifying narcissistic traits at a young age and the implications of these behaviors on personal development and relationships.Dr. Salerno shares his insights on the biological underpinnings of personality traits, emphasizing that while some traits may be inherent, environmental factors also play a crucial role in their expression. The discussion highlights the importance of early intervention and the necessity for parents and caregivers to recognize signs of problematic behaviors in children, rather than attributing them solely to parenting failures.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the nature of narcissistic relationships, the role of community in recovery, and the importance of self-compassion when navigating the aftermath of such experiences. Dr. Salerno provides practical advice for those seeking to break free from toxic dynamics, emphasizing the need to challenge self-pathologizing beliefs that often arise in these situations.For more information about Dr. Peter Salerno and his work, visit his website:https://www.drpetersalerno.com Connect with us on social media:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠Support IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠Prefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/about Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Jul 11, 2025 • 5min

BONUS EPISODE PREVIEW: Navigating the Digital Abyss: Online Cults pt.1

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/indoctrinationIn this eye-opening bonus episode, we dive into the alarming world of online cults and their insidious methods of targeting vulnerable children. As the digital age evolves, so do the tactics of manipulation and control, making it crucial for parents and guardians to understand the dangers lurking in seemingly safe online spaces. Rachel brings to light the disturbing case of a violent extremist network known as 764, which preys on minors through dark online communities. Founded by a teenager, this group has been classified as a terror network due to its alarming recruitment and grooming tactics, exploiting the vulnerabilities of young people, particularly those identifying as LGBTQ or struggling with mental health issues. The conversation emphasizes the need for vigilance in recognizing how digital environments can be weaponized for grooming, as well as the importance of fostering resilience and providing accessible mental health support for at-risk youth.This episode is a vital resource for anyone looking to understand the complexities of online cults and their impact on the younger generation. Stay tuned for part two, where Rachel will continue to unravel the web of control that exists online, providing listeners with the knowledge they need to protect their loved ones.Connect with us on social media:https://linktr.ee/indoctrinationWatch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jSDownload Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.htmlPrefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:https://thepodcastconsultant.com/aboutAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 18min

Twin Flames: From Love Bombing to Liberation with Jessi Hersey

In this powerful episode, Rachel welcomes Jessi Hersey, a courageous author and cult survivor, to share her transformative journey from the Twin Flames Universe cult. Jessi opens up about her experiences within the group, detailing the emotional manipulation and love bombing that initially drew her in, only to later reveal the toxic underbelly of the organization. Her candid reflections on the mirroring exercise highlight how it contributed to her feelings of confusion and self-doubt, ultimately leading her to question her identity and sense of self.As they delve deeper into Jessie's story, Rachel and Jessi discuss the profound impact of being part of a high-control group, particularly on the LGBTQ community. Jessie emphasizes the importance of recognizing red flags and understanding the psychological tactics employed by cult leaders to maintain control. Their conversation sheds light on the struggles faced by many who leave such organizations, including the challenges of rediscovering one's true self and rebuilding a life after trauma.Now, as a resilient advocate for others, Jessi is using her voice to empower those who have experienced similar struggles. She shares her passion for writing, including her impactful book "Lit: My Journey Back to Faith," and her commitment to creating inclusive narratives in her upcoming works. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of cult dynamics and the journey toward healing and self-acceptance.To learn more about Jessie and her work, visit her YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@jessisstories9375More about the aftermath of the Twin Flames documentary:Michigan AG opens investigation into Twin Flames Universe after Netflix documentaryHear Rachel's Interview on the Twin Flames Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/piecing-together/id1609466357?i=1000555274514Connect with us on social media:https://linktr.ee/indoctrinationWatch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jSSupport IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:https://www.patreon.com/indoctrinationPrefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:https://thepodcastconsultant.com/about Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 28min

Reclaiming Agency: Insights on Religious Trauma and Control with Nikki G

In this thought-provoking episode, Rachel welcomes back Nikki G, a certified trauma recovery coach and advocate for survivors of religious trauma and cult involvement. Together, they delve into the alarming rise of Project 2025 and its implications for personal agency, societal control, and the fabric of democracy in America. Nikki shares her insights as a survivor of multiple cults, emphasizing the manipulative language used by those in power to create a false sense of security while stripping individuals of their autonomy.Throughout their conversation, they explore the concept of the Seven Mountain Mandate and the far-reaching effects of Christian nationalism on various sectors, including education and government. Nikki discusses the importance of critical thinking and self-awareness in navigating the complexities of modern society, urging listeners to recognize the signs of indoctrination and control that permeate everyday life.As they unpack the psychological tactics employed by authoritarian leaders, Rachel and Nikki emphasize the necessity of community, self-care, and resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges. This episode serves as a crucial reminder of the power of informed action and the importance of maintaining our humanity amidst a climate of fear and division.For more information about Nikki G and her work, visit her website:https://www.nikkigspeaks.com/You can also access her ebook, "Christian Nationalism and Its Impact on Religious Survivors," for further insights into these pressing issues.Connect with us on social media:https://linktr.ee/indoctrinationWatch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jSSupport IndoctriNation on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes and more:https://www.patreon.com/indoctrinationPrefer to support the IndoctriNation show with a one-time donation? Use this link:https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATIONIndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:https://thepodcastconsultant.com/about Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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