In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, I speak with Tammie Willis, a survivor of extreme Christian fundamentalism. Tammie shares her journey of escaping a life of coercive control and cultic manipulation, detailing the psychological and emotional impacts of her upbringing. The conversation explores the complexities of fundamentalism, the role of gender, the effects of purity culture, and the challenges faced in education and recovery. Tammie emphasizes the importance of peer support and community in healing from trauma, and she offers insights into the resources available for survivors.

To reach out to Tammie and for more information about recovery resources and survivor discussion groups, please contact: [email protected]

and to access Tammie's PDF on Women in Fundamentalism, please email the above address or [email protected] 

Get in Touch or Support:
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Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, I speak with Lyn Smith-Gregory, the great-grandniece of Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church. Lyn shares her journey from being a devoted believer in the Mormon faith to questioning her beliefs after encountering historical evidence that contradicted her upbringing. She discusses the emotional turmoil of leaving the church, the impact on her family, and her quest for identity and fulfillment outside of the Mormon community. Lyn also touches on her upcoming memoir, 'We Were Smiths,' which explores her experiences and the broader implications of leaving a high-control religion.

Lyn's website: About - Lyn Smith Gregory

Get in Touch or Support:
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This conversation delves into the coercive practices of The Way International, focusing on the sexual and reproductive control of women, financial exploitation, and the indoctrination of members. Hannah shares her personal experiences within the cult, highlighting the patriarchal dynamics and the challenges faced by women. The discussion also touches on the cult's control over information, the impact of the Jesus Movement, and the implications of the upcoming Rock of Ages event, which aims to re-establish the cult's presence. Hannah emphasises the importance of awareness and support for those still involved in the cult, advocating for recovery and freedom from its grasp.

Hannah's Substack - https://jenniferhaha.substack.com/publish/home

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Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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In this episode of the Cult Vault Podcast, I engage with author Bart Stewart, who discusses his novel 'The Contraption' and its exploration of cult dynamics. We delve into the historical evolution of cults, the societal neglect surrounding the issue, and the connections between cults and domestic abuse. Bart shares insights from his extensive research and personal experiences, emphasising the need for greater awareness and education on the subject. The conversation also touches on the challenges of promoting literature on cults and the importance of understanding psychological manipulation within these groups.

Grab a copy of Bart's book - The Contraption eBook : Stewart, Barton Allen: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store

and check out Bart's other writing - Amazon.co.uk: Barton Stewart: books, biography, latest update

Get in Touch or Support:
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Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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In this episode of the Cult Vault podcast, I speak with Lonnie, a returning guest who has recently published a graphic memoir titled 'Gaytheist: Coming Out of My Orthodox Childhood'. Lonnie shares his journey from growing up in an Orthodox Jewish community in New York to living in Japan, discussing the challenges he faced as a gay man in a restrictive environment. The conversation delves into the complexities of Jewish identity, the intricacies of religious practices, and the contradictions within the community. Lonnie reflects on his experiences, the impact of his upbringing, and the importance of sharing his story through his graphic novel.

Links to Lonnie's work: Gaytheist: Coming Out of My Orthodox Childhood (lonniecomics.com)
American Cult: A Graphic History of Religious Cults in America from the Colonial Era to Today: Amazon.co.uk: Chapman, Robyn: 9781945509636: Books

Get in Touch or Support:
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Crimecon UK 2025 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
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Another episode, another week of expert interviews. This time, I sit down with Nicole Bedera to talk about her research on sexual violence within universities. Dr. Nicole Bedera is a sociologist and cofounder of the antiviolence consulting practice Beyond Compliance. She received her PhD from the University of Michigan. She has spent more than a decade studying sexual violence and advocating for survivors in media outlets including the New York Times, NPR, and Harper's BAZAAR. Nicole Bedera's debut book: On the Wrong Side: How Universities Protect Perpetrators and Betray Survivors of Sexual Violence is now available for purchase here.

Nicole's website - About | Nicole Bedera, Ph.D.

Get in Touch or Support:
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Hello listeners and welcome back to Season 3 of the Cult Vault Podcast. In this episode, Kacey is joined by longtime friend of the show Lisa VanArsdale. Lisa discusses her ongoing exploration of various cults and religious communities, sharing her experiences and insights from her visits. They delve into the importance of understanding these groups, the live show and podcast Lisa has created, and the dynamics of leadership within cults. The conversation also touches on cultural practices, human rights issues, and the impact of charismatic leaders. Lisa emphasises the need for safety and honesty when engaging with such communities, while also reflecting on her personal growth and future plans.

You can find Lisa's upcoming shows and podcast here: Lisa Joins A Cult – No virgins were sacrificed in the making of this website…

Get in Touch or Support:
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As I return from my studies in the Psychology of Coercive Control MSc programme at the University of Salford, I'm looking forward to covering more content on this subject matter. To start the new season, here is an episode on the topic itself: What is Coercive Control? 


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In this episode, I chat with Jordan about his childhood experiences being involved in the Assemblies of God, a sect of Pentecostalism, and how a constant state of upheaval and relocation made it difficult to maintain friendships and experience childhood in a "typical" way. Along with homeschooling, Jordan and his family uprooted a number of times. This travelling included missionary work in Africa and his parents eventually opening their own church

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2024 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk - use code CULT for 10% off tickets!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/
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Gmail: [email protected]

In this episode, I chat with Jordan about his childhood experiences being involved in the Assemblies of God, a sect of Pentecostalism, and how a constant state of upheaval and relocation made it difficult to maintain friendships and experience childhood in a "typical" way. Along with homeschooling, Jordan and his family uprooted a number of times. This travelling included missionary work in Africa and his parents eventually opening their own church

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2024 - 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: [email protected]

In this remastered episode I talk with author Mary Mahoney who details her experiences in The Children of God, talking us through the trials of her memoir. Mary joined The Children of God in her teens and through systematic coercion and manipulation, became trapped in one of the most notorious and insidious cults known today. During this episode, Mary speaks about human trafficking, sexual abuse, financial and physical abuse and vast amounts of spiritual abuse - all taking place in the name of the Lord.

You can find Mary's writing here:"Abnormal Normal - My Life in the Children of God" https://www.amazon.co.uk/Abnormal-Normal-Life-Children-God-ebook/dp/B086HJMVF3

Get in Touch or Support:
Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvault
Crimecon UK 2024 - 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: [email protected]