projecthopepodcast

In 2004, Ryan Hernandez joined a Catholic religious community to live a life of prayer, education, and charity. He was just 17 at the time that he left his life in Los Angeles to follow "The Call" and to follow Christ. Many years later, he would refer to this Catholic sect as an End Times Cult.

While in the group he had been a devoted follower and loyal member but there was also abuse and brainwashing taking place and it was this abuse and growing shame that became an unbearable burden for him to bear. After years of bullying, physical abuse, humiliation, psychological abuse, and even solitary confinement, Ryan decided to leave the community.

Outside of the cult, Ryan found that his mind was still under their influence and negativity. After years of being brainwashed that life outside of the community would mean being cursed by God Ryan found himself in deep depression, loneliness, and shame. With the help of some true friends and a supportive family, Ryan was able to find the healing that he needed and to free himself from the cultic influences that had entrapped him.

Ryan is now working to bring awareness to cult abuse and other important issues through his project called "The Truth That Heals Podcast". It is available on major podcast platforms.

The Truth That Heals Podcast on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDspcPEdITAadgtJGBMvzZA

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0d8WYUM6qo8LEO5mviIauB?si=cuDxfcBmQPeutbg153oeWg&nd=1

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her Patreon subscribers at: https://www.patreon.com/JaiaSuriMusic

Jennifer specializes in working with survivors of coercive control. She is trained in a specialized approach that is research-based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Jean Brown is a writer, podcaster, and mom to two young children. She has Bachelor's degrees in political science and writing from Loyola University Maryland, and a Master’s in Public Policy and Public Administration from Concordia University in Montreal. She is active in creating content for SEEK Safely Inc.’s website, social media, brand outreach, and legislative efforts. Jean lived in Thailand and has traveled extensively, including treasured memories of traveling with her sister Kirby. She now lives in Toronto, Canada, with her family. She loves dogs, karaoke, cooking, and ordering in when she doesn't feel like cooking!

Book link to This Sweet Life: https://www.amazon.com/This-Sweet-Life-lived-after/dp/0578708795/
SEEK Safely Website: https://www.seeksafely.org
SEEK Safely Podcast: https://seeksafely.podcastpage.io

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0d8WYUM6qo8LEO5mviIauB?si=cuDxfcBmQPeutbg153oeWg&nd=1

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her Patreon subscribers at: https://www.patreon.com/JaiaSuriMusic

Jennifer specializes in working with survivors of coercive control. She is trained in a specialized approach that is research-based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Jean Brown is a writer, podcaster, and mom to two young children. She has Bachelor's degrees in political science and writing from Loyola University Maryland, and a Master’s in Public Policy and Public Administration from Concordia University in Montreal. She is active in creating content for SEEK Safely Inc.’s website, social media, brand outreach, and legislative efforts. Jean lived in Thailand and has traveled extensively, including treasured memories of traveling with her sister Kirby. She now lives in Toronto, Canada, with her family. She loves dogs, karaoke, cooking, and ordering in when she doesn't feel like cooking!

Book link to This Sweet Life: https://www.amazon.com/This-Sweet-Life-lived-after/dp/0578708795/
SEEK Safely Website: https://www.seeksafely.org
SEEK Safely Podcast: https://seeksafely.podcastpage.io

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0d8WYUM6qo8LEO5mviIauB?si=cuDxfcBmQPeutbg153oeWg&nd=1

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her Patreon subscribers at: https://www.patreon.com/JaiaSuriMusic

Jennifer specializes in working with survivors of coercive control. She is trained in a specialized approach that is research-based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Esther Friedman is a licensed mental health counselor, expressive art therapist, songwriter, author, and ex-cult member. In 2006, a “new friend” introduced her to an "esoteric school." In 2011, she left a secret cult. Afterwards, she researched, obsessively, and recognized “school” as a cult. She posted a blog. Soon, Cult Confessions, a CD of ten original songs, followed.

Every time she spoke or sang out, she felt calmer and clearer. She started an “edu-tainment campaign” presenting her misadventure to private audiences.  Releasing secrets freed her voice and mind. The Gentle Soul personality profile and a mission to empower other empaths unfolded. She published, The Gentle Souls Revolution, a memoir, a public service announcement, and recovery guide and template to help Gentle Souls navigate exploitative relationships. 

Today, her story and songs are weaving together into a mini-musical. She has a full time therapy practice for all survivors of narcissistic abuse.  

Purchase “The Gentle Souls Revolution”: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BW2ZM3SQ?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860

Help fund the Audio version of “The Gentle Souls Revolution”: https://shoutout.wix.com/so/8aOeE98-I?languageTag=en

Esther’s website: https://www.gentlesoulsrevolution.com/therapy

Blog post reference in P2 interview: The Mass Exodus.
https://www.cultconfessions2.com/2013/04/04/the-january-2012-mass-exodus-repost/

For more on the cult & Esther’s writings: www.cultconfessions2.com

Esther’s profile on the igotout.org website. Support the hashtag survivor movement & share your story: https://www.igotout.org/new-collaborators/esther-friedman

Follow Esther on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/esther.friedman.16100
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/estherruthfriedman2021/

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here.

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her at Patreon.

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Esther Friedman is a licensed mental health counselor, expressive art therapist, songwriter, author, and ex-cult member. In 2006, a “new friend” introduced her to an "esoteric school." In 2011, she left a secret cult. Afterwards, she researched, obsessively, and recognized “school” as a cult. She posted a blog. Soon, Cult Confessions, a CD of ten original songs, followed.

Every time she spoke or sang out, she felt calmer and clearer. She started an “edu-tainment campaign” presenting her misadventure to private audiences.  Releasing secrets freed her voice and mind. The Gentle Soul personality profile and a mission to empower other empaths unfolded. She published, The Gentle Souls Revolution, a memoir, a public service announcement, and recovery guide and template to help Gentle Souls navigate exploitative relationships. 

Today, her story and songs are weaving together into a mini-musical. She has a full time therapy practice for all survivors of narcissistic abuse.  

Purchase “The Gentle Souls Revolution”: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BW2ZM3SQ?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860

Help fund the Audio version of “The Gentle Souls Revolution”: https://shoutout.wix.com/so/8aOeE98-I?languageTag=en

Esther’s website: https://www.gentlesoulsrevolution.com/therapy

For more on the cult & Esther’s writings: www.cultconfessions2.com

Esther’s profile on the igotout.org website. Support the hashtag survivor movement & share your story: https://www.igotout.org/new-collaborators/esther-friedman

Follow Esther on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/esther.friedman.16100
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/estherruthfriedman2021/

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here.

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her at Patreon.

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Sally M. Meyer (Pen name: Sarah Elizabeth Rose) documented her experience as she discovered that her daughter had joined a pseudo-Christian cult. Her heartbreak, considerations, doubts, questions, and inner turmoil were captured in her journal, resulting in her books and the powerful voice she gives to the pain of this experience. We journey through the impact on her family and their attempts to take action over the almost 2 decades of losses alongside beautiful things that also arose.

Sally was born and raised in a university town in the Midwest. She graduated from the University of Illinois with both a BA and then a Masters Degree in Education. She also graduated with a Master’s of Divinity degree from the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago. For many years, Sally taught elementary school and also served alongside her husband, Dennis as Parish Ministers at their church. They have three children and are also founders and directors of the Lullabye Foundation.

Please check out or contribute to the Lullabye Foundation whose mission statement is:
Community by community, the Lullabye Foundation partners with schools and others to identify, lift up, and “level the playing field” for children and youth, enabling them to have experiences which would otherwise – for them – be only a dream.   
https://www.lullabyefoundation.org/
Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelullabyefoundation

Purchase link for “Ordinarily Sarah”:
https://www.amazon.com/Ordinarily-Sarah-Elizabeth-Rose/dp/1620205653/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1V51HREPY72OX&keywords=ordinarily+sarah&qid=1690385037&sprefix=ordinarily+sarah%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-1

Purchase link for “Ordinarily Sarah: Book II: Relentless”:
https://www.amazon.com/Ordinarily-Sarah-Book-Ii-Relentless-ebook/dp/B0899XFR2Y/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=ordinarily+sarah+book+ii+relentless+kindle+edition&qid=1690384910&sr=8-1

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here.

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her at Patreon.

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Anke Richter is a columnist and reporter. Her investigative and personal features have been published in Die Zeit, Spiegel, FAZ, taz, New Zealand Geographic, North & South, The Spinoff, Canvas and others. Her most recent and fourth book is called, Cult Trip. Inside the World of Coercion & Control.

In Part 1 of this 3 Part interview we primarily cover the subject matter of Centrepoint. Part 2 has a focus on the neo-Tantric community of Agama. Part 3 is primarily a discussion about Gloriavale.

Cult Trip is described as “a leading journalist’s personal, intense and riveting investigation into the worlds of cults.

At a new age festival in Byron Bay, Australia, German journalist Anke Richter is finding her spiritual awakening when she meets a woman (a survivor of the Centrepoint cult) who will change the course of her life and career. Over the next ten years, Anke pursued a labyrinthine investigation into how and why cults attract, entrap and destroy otherwise ordinary people, asking what the line is between tribe and cult, participant and perpetrator, seduction and sexual abuse.

From the emotional and criminal carnage of Centrepoint in Auckland, New Zealand, to an anti-cult conference in Manchester, the infamous Osho’s ashram in India, the tantric Agama Yoga school in remote Thailand and culminating in a visit to Gloriavale on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Anke uncovers a disturbing pattern of violence and suffering.

International bestseller Cult Trip is a powerful exploration of what really goes on inside the groups we call cults, and how to reckon with their aftermath.”

I am so grateful for Anke’s body of work raising awareness for cult survivors and also her advocacy to protect the public and educate about these abusive groups.

Please listen with care as these episodes deal with the subject matters of sexual abuse & child abuse.

“Cult Trip. Inside the world of coercion & control.”
Purchase on Kindle with special discount code:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cult-Trip-Inside-Coercion-Control-ebook/dp/B0BYGPCP66

Anke Richter's website: www.ankerichter.net
FACT Aotearoa Fight Against Conspiracy Theories (New Zealand):
https://factaotearoa.nz/
Cultic conversations NZ. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/839211113870029

Documentary mentioned about Centerpoint.
Heaven and Hell. The Centrepoint Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3qA_X7E0BM
For more on the Gloriavale Leavers' Support Trust:
https://www.gloriavaleleavers.org.nz/
For more on the Centrepoint Restoration Project: https://www.centrepointrestorationproject.com/

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here.

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her at Patreon.

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Anke Richter is a columnist and reporter. Her investigative and personal features have been published in Die Zeit, Spiegel, FAZ, taz, New Zealand Geographic, North & South, The Spinoff, Canvas and others. Her most recent and fourth book is called, Cult Trip. Inside the World of Coercion & Control.

In Part 1 of this 3 Part interview we primarily cover the subject matter of Centrepoint. Part 2 has a focus on the neo-Tantric community of Agama. Part 3 is primarily a discussion about Gloriavale.

Cult Trip is described as “a leading journalist’s personal, intense and riveting investigation into the worlds of cults.

At a new age festival in Byron Bay, Australia, German journalist Anke Richter is finding her spiritual awakening when she meets a woman (a survivor of the Centrepoint cult) who will change the course of her life and career. Over the next ten years, Anke pursued a labyrinthine investigation into how and why cults attract, entrap and destroy otherwise ordinary people, asking what the line is between tribe and cult, participant and perpetrator, seduction and sexual abuse.

From the emotional and criminal carnage of Centrepoint in Auckland, New Zealand, to an anti-cult conference in Manchester, the infamous Osho’s ashram in India, the tantric Agama Yoga school in remote Thailand and culminating in a visit to Gloriavale on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Anke uncovers a disturbing pattern of violence and suffering.

International bestseller Cult Trip is a powerful exploration of what really goes on inside the groups we call cults, and how to reckon with their aftermath.”

I am so grateful for Anke’s body of work raising awareness for cult survivors and also her advocacy to protect the public and educate about these abusive groups.

Please listen with care as these episodes deal with the subject matters of sexual abuse & child abuse.

“Cult Trip. Inside the world of coercion & control.”
Purchase on Kindle with special discount code:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cult-Trip-Inside-Coercion-Control-ebook/dp/B0BYGPCP66

Anke Richter's website: www.ankerichter.net
FACT Aotearoa Fight Against Conspiracy Theories (New Zealand):
https://factaotearoa.nz/
Cultic conversations NZ. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/839211113870029

Documentary mentioned about Centerpoint.
Heaven and Hell. The Centrepoint Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3qA_X7E0BM
For more on the Gloriavale Leavers' Support Trust:
https://www.gloriavaleleavers.org.nz/
For more on the Centrepoint Restoration Project: https://www.centrepointrestorationproject.com/

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here.

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her at Patreon.

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Anke Richter is a columnist and reporter. Her investigative and personal features have been published in Die Zeit, Spiegel, FAZ, taz, New Zealand Geographic, North & South, The Spinoff, Canvas and others. Her most recent and fourth book is called, Cult Trip. Inside the World of Coercion & Control.

In Part 1 of this 3 Part interview we primarily cover the subject matter of Centrepoint. Part 2 has a focus on the neo-Tantric community of Agama. Part 3 is primarily a discussion about Gloriavale.

Cult Trip is described as “a leading journalist’s personal, intense and riveting investigation into the worlds of cults.

At a new age festival in Byron Bay, Australia, German journalist Anke Richter is finding her spiritual awakening when she meets a woman (a survivor of the Centrepoint cult) who will change the course of her life and career. Over the next ten years, Anke pursued a labyrinthine investigation into how and why cults attract, entrap and destroy otherwise ordinary people, asking what the line is between tribe and cult, participant and perpetrator, seduction and sexual abuse.

From the emotional and criminal carnage of Centrepoint in Auckland, New Zealand, to an anti-cult conference in Manchester, the infamous Osho’s ashram in India, the tantric Agama Yoga school in remote Thailand and culminating in a visit to Gloriavale on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Anke uncovers a disturbing pattern of violence and suffering.

International bestseller Cult Trip is a powerful exploration of what really goes on inside the groups we call cults, and how to reckon with their aftermath.”

I am so grateful for Anke’s body of work raising awareness for cult survivors and also her advocacy to protect the public and educate about these abusive groups.

Please listen with care as these episodes deal with the subject matters of sexual abuse & child abuse.

“Cult Trip. Inside the world of coercion & control.”
Purchase on Kindle with special discount code:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cult-Trip-Inside-Coercion-Control-ebook/dp/B0BYGPCP66

Anke Richter's website: www.ankerichter.net
FACT Aotearoa Fight Against Conspiracy Theories (New Zealand):
https://factaotearoa.nz/
Cultic conversations NZ. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/839211113870029

Documentary mentioned about Centerpoint.
Heaven and Hell. The Centrepoint Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3qA_X7E0BM
For more on the Gloriavale Leavers' Support Trust:
https://www.gloriavaleleavers.org.nz/
For more on the Centrepoint Restoration Project: https://www.centrepointrestorationproject.com/

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here.

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her at Patreon.

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Dr. Marlene Winell is a licensed psychologist, educator, and writer in western Massachusetts. Her background includes 30 years of experience in human services, in both community and academic settings. She holds a doctorate in Human Development and Family Studies from Pennsylvania State University and is the author of Leaving the Fold: A Guide for Former Fundamentalists and Others Leaving their Religion. Dr. Winell directs the organization, Journey Free, with services for recovery from harmful religion. In 2011, she named "Religious Trauma Syndrome." Marlene is also a filmmaker, photographer, mother, and grandmother.

Marlene’s book: Leaving the Fold. A Guide for Former Fundamentalists and Others Leaving Their Religion.

For what Jennifer read in the introduction about Religious Trauma Syndrome

For more on the Helping Professionals Group
For more about the Journey Free June Retreats

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here.

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her at Patreon.

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

In this episode, Joyce & Nina join us to take a deep dive into understanding the importance of defining consent in our legislation and the widespread impact this could have upon important causes that uphold our humanity and autonomy.

Joyce Short is the founder and Chief Executive of the Consent Awareness Network (CAN) and a TEDx Talk Presenter. She has been an expert witness and the architect of several legislative bills that can radically change how consent is dealt with by our justice system. She is a sexual assault survivor and the author of 4 books that can turn our human right to consent into a civil right backed by law. Joyce has been featured on Nightline, CBS News, BuzzFeed, Inside Edition, the NY Times, and more, and she’s been quoted in books and journals, including “The Moment” by Andrea Constand, and has been honored as a 'Woman of Distinction" by the NY State Assembly.

Nina Lucas serves as Chief of Staff and a Consent Outreach Ambassador for the Consent Awareness Network (CAN). She is also a member of Never Alone Advocacy, which was founded to fight back against abuse of power in the military. As a classically trained singer, Nina's secret superpower is opera and she is dedicated to applying her robust voice to inform, educate and empower however she can in all efforts to #CodifyConsent

Please join us in using #CodifyConsent and #FGKIA to spread awareness to define consent as “Freely Given, Knowledgable Informed Agreement" (by a person with the capacity to reason).

Consent Awareness Network Website
Click here for Joyce's TEDx Talk
Joyce's Book: Your Consent: The Key to Conquering Sexual Assault (revised edition)
Sign & support the NY petition
Donate to the Consent Awareness Network
Become a Consent Ambassador!
Video for kids about consent
Follow Joyce on Instagram
Follow Nina on Instagram

Other References from the Interview:

Listen to Joyce & Nina’s Interview on A Little Bit Culty
Jess Hill wrote the book See What You Made Me Do & there is a documentary by the same name.
Eve Wiley has helped change laws regarding consent.
Check out Andrea Constand’s work.
Iron Jawed Angels.  Movie of the true story of suffragist Alice Paul and the defiant young activists who re-invigorated the women's suffrage movement before the passing of the 19th Amendment in 1920.
Our Father. Documentary about the abuse of Dr. Cline

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here.

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her at Patreon.

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Debby Schriver is a cult survivor advocate, author, and human rights activist. A native of Chicago, Debby earned undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Tennessee. Her career led her to serve new students, parents, and undergraduates in the Student Conduct and Orientation Department. Debby spent the last part of her career at the University leading employee training and organizational development. Her focus on children led her to work as a community volunteer with the Foster Care Review Board, Girl Scouts, YWCA, and American Red Cross.

Debby has written a number of books, and she cites as most life-changing her experiences learning from cult survivors while writing Whispering in the Daylight, The Children of Tony Alamo Christian Ministries and their Journey to Freedom. Alamo’s story is chronicled in the Sundance TV docuseries “Ministry of Evil: The Twisted Cult of Tony Alamo,” in which Debby appears as their cult expert (NBC Peacock Productions and World of Wonder Productions, February 2019). Presently, Debby serves as the president of the International Cultic Studies Association and founder and executive director of Keys to Me.

Whispering in the Daylight: The Children of Tony Alamo Christian Ministries and Their Journey to Freedom

Keys To Me

Ministry of Evil: The Twisted Cult of Tony Alamo. Found on Amazon here and also on Peacock.

International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA)

Follow Debby on Social Media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debby.schriver
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbyschriver/

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0d8WYUM6qo8LEO5mviIauB?si=cuDxfcBmQPeutbg153oeWg&nd=1 

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her Patreon subscribers at: https://www.patreon.com/JaiaSuriMusic

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Ashlen Hilliard is a cult intervention specialist helping families with loved ones in cultic or high-control groups or relationships through her organization, People Leave Cults.

She completed her MSc in the Psychology of Coercive Control in early 2022 and conducted research on the relationship between reproductive coercion, psychologically abusive environments, and the extent of group identity in a sample of those who have left cultic groups.

Ashlen has previous experience working for multiple non-profit settings in the field of cult recovery. Most recently, this has included working as Director of Events for the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA). During that time, she facilitated workshops, webinars, and conferences for those in touch with multiple aspects of the cult phenomenon including therapists, former members, legal professionals, media representatives, academics, and others. Prior to her work with ICSA, she worked as a case manager in Salt Lake City, Utah, for the non-profit Holding Out Help, where she was involved on the front lines of helping individuals leaving diverse polygamist communities out West.

She currently enjoys living in Portland, Oregon where she is a volunteer co-organizer of the Spiritual Abuse Forum for Education (SAFE) Meetup for those who have left or are considering leaving high-demand religious groups in the local community.

Find Ashlen on social media at:
https://www.peopleleavecults.com/
https://linktr.ee/peopleleavecults
https://www.instagram.com/peopleleavecults/
https://www.facebook.com/peopleleavecults
https://www.linkedin.com/company/people-leave-cults-llc/

Email address: ahilliard@peopleleavecults.com

The Spiritual Abuse Forum for Education (SAFE) is a regular meetup in Portland, Oregon for those who have left or are considering leaving high-demand religious groups. https://www.safeportland.org/

Ethical Standards for Thought Reform Consultants

Article: Exit Counseling and the Decline of Deprogramming

Cultic Studies Review, Volume 1, Number 3, 2002, 249-291

Research Presented by Ashlen Hilliard, MSc Psychology of Coercive Control: Understanding Reproductive Coercion and Cults in a Destructive Group Setting: 

Warren Jeffs FLDS documentary we referred to called, “Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey”. https://www.netflix.com/title/81292539

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0d8WYUM6qo8LEO5mviIauB?si=cuDxfcBmQPeutbg153oeWg&nd=1

If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her Patreon subscribers at: https://www.patreon.com/JaiaSuriMusic

Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research-based and rooted in the work of Dr. Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Amanda Redwine joins us as both a cult survivor and whistle-blower. She is exposing the cultic environment of her former Church known as Revival for Christ Club in Moore, Oklahoma. This group also owns and operates the Yellow Rose Dinner theater. The leader of the group is Timothy Vanover, accompanied by his wife, Jennifer Vanover.  Amanda shares her experience regarding what it was like growing up in this group, and the impact it’s had on her family. After 35 years she has decided to speak out after losing her mother and being distanced from her eldest daughter. Although her story carries pain, Amanda has found new purpose as she fights to expose the group, the leadership, the destruction of families, and religious abuse.

Our podcast features a beautiful song by Jaia Suri called, “Leaving the Cult”. Subscribe to Jaia Suri on Spotify and access the song here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0d8WYUM6qo8LEO5mviIauB?si=cuDxfcBmQPeutbg153oeWg&nd=1


If you feel moved to support Jaia’s music, please join her Patreon subscribers at: https://www.patreon.com/JaiaSuriMusic


Jennifer is a cult and religious recovery counselor. She is certified in a specialized approach working with survivors that is research-based and rooted in the work of Gillie Jenkinson. She has a Masters in the Psychology of Coercive Control and functions as an expert witness in such cases. Jennifer is also a research associate at Salford University.  For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists


If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

In this pre-season 2 launch bonus episode we get to spend time with singer-songwriter, Jaia Suri, the musician whose song, “Leaving the Cult” is featured on Season 2 of the Project Hope Podcast. We sit down to discuss her musical journey and the evolution of this song.

The full song is played at the end of the episode for all of you to enjoy in its entirety!

Alongside music from Jaia’s 4 other albums, you can find the song on Spotify at ​https://open.spotify.com/artist/0d8WYUM6qo8LEO5mviIauB?si=cuDxfcBmQPeutbg153oeWg&nd=1

​​A huge thank you to Jaia for allowing us to enjoy this gift alongside Season 2 of Project Hope.

Please also consider supporting Jaia in her musical endeavors by joining her Patreon subscribers at: https://www.patreon.com/JaiaSuriMusic

For more about Jaia: https://www.jaiasuri.com/

Follow Jaia on Social Media at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jaia.Suri.Music

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JaiaSuri/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYIprmmyZUnJ1eCrkISno6g

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0d8WYUM6qo8LEO5mviIauB?si=cuDxfcBmQPeutbg153oeWg&nd=1

The throwback YouTube Video I refer to of Jaia in the early days: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQmuC3qzlyU

For more about Jennifer: Jennifer-French.com

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Many of you may know Sarah and Nippy from Season 1 of The Vow, the critically acclaimed HBO documentary series on NXIVM. The Vow shows real time and historical footage of the group and documents Sarah and Nippy, amidst others, revealing the emotional toll of unfolding events that transpire and the bravery of this core group that’s resulted in the NXIVM leader, Keith Raniere, being convicted of sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and other crimes. Season 2 of The Vow is set to release in October 2022. 

Sarah’s memoir on this topic is called Scarred: The True Story of How I Escaped NXIVM, the Cult that Bound My Life. In it, she shares her story from the moment she takes her first seminar to her harrowing fight to get out of NXIVM, collaborate with the FBI, help others, and heal.

Sarah and Nippy are also actors. You can find Sarah on the Hallmark Channel and Nippy’s latest appearance on the Good Doctor. You can also join Sarah and Nippy at SXSW this March of 2022. They will be doing a live show of their podcast, A Little Bit Culty. If you haven’t checked it out, please do… Sarah and Nippy host survivors, experts,  and help their audience understand, heal from, and avoid abusive situations, one little red flag at a time.

In this discussion, Sarah and Nippy share about their family dynamics both during and post NXIVM amidst other related topics! Join us!

Check out A Little Bit Culty: https://www.alittlebitculty.com/
For more on Sarah’s book, Scarred: https://www.sarahedmondson.com/book
Join Sarah & Nippy at SXSW 2022: https://schedule.sxsw.com/2022/events/PP119952
Check out The Vow: https://www.hbo.com/the-vow

Jennifer is a mental health counselor located in the Los Angeles area, using Internal Family Systems (IFS) as the primary modality of psychotherapy that she uses with clients. Jennifer will graduate with her second Masters degree in 2022 in the Psychology of Coercive Control. She works both across the US and internationally with those seeking insight and healing. For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

Adam Jones is a 27 year old former Seventh-Day Adventist, and theology student. He runs a ministry called “That Awkward Space” where he criticizes and critiques religious and political ideas. He is currently in school for social work and hopes to graduate soon. He is newly married and is currently enjoying a quiet life in upstate New York with his wife.

Follow Adam on social media at:
Instagram: @that.awkwardplace
Twitter: @space_awkward

Jennifer is a mental health counselor located in the Los Angeles area, using Internal Family Systems (IFS) as the primary modality of psychotherapy that she uses with clients. Jennifer will graduate with her second Masters degree in 2021 in the Psychology of Coercive Control. She works both across the US and internationally with those seeking insight and healing. For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

In 1974, at twelve years old, Deb Donner’s mother joined what she thought was loving, trusting, close-knit Christian Fellowship, committed to helping anyone in need called, The Ingleside United Methodist Church. They called themselves The Fellowship, and they were pastored by a man named Lou Hillendahl who touted an ‘inner healing ministry’ that 'helped hundreds of people with all kinds of problems'.

TW: adult & child abuse & sexual abuse

Lou infused his version of biblical teachings with pseudo-psycho beliefs, constantly creating new “therapies” to “deal with the personal, family and sexual” problems he identified within his parishioners. In 1976, Lou began teaching that “sex is a myth in our culture” and developed bizarre therapies to prove his theory. At 14, against Deb’s will, she was involved in several of the therapies. Knowing she wasn’t supposed to talk about what she had experienced, she also knew it wasn’t right, and told someone. The media got hold of the information and started bombarding Lou for interviews. When the church found out, they decided to take action and hold him accountable. On March 21, 1977, Lou submitted his resignation to the Methodist church to avoid a heresy trial.

Lou and several of his devoted followers decided to create their own community, and eventually purchased a 58-acre plot of land on Vashon Island in Washington State where they lived in big green army tents for years while the community built homes, and a couple buildings. They called themselves The Wesleyan Community, officially called, The Wesleyan Christian Community Church and Retreat Center. Deb shares the story of her time in Ingleside and on Vashon Island until she eventually escaped in February of 1981, when she was 19 years old.

Follow Deb on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkcults/

To find out more about #igotout, please visit: https://www.igotout.org/

Jennifer is a mental health counselor located in the Los Angeles area, using Internal Family Systems (IFS) as the primary modality of psychotherapy that she uses with clients. Jennifer will graduate with her second Masters degree in 2021 in the Psychology of Coercive Control. She works both across the US and internationally with those seeking insight and healing. For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

In 1974, at twelve years old, Deb Donner’s mother joined what she thought was loving, trusting, close-knit Christian Fellowship, committed to helping anyone in need called, The Ingleside United Methodist Church. They called themselves The Fellowship, and they were pastored by a man named Lou Hillendahl who touted an ‘inner healing ministry’ that 'helped hundreds of people with all kinds of problems'.

TW: adult & child abuse & sexual abuse

Lou infused his version of biblical teachings with pseudo-psycho beliefs, constantly creating new “therapies” to “deal with the personal, family and sexual” problems he identified within his parishioners. In 1976, Lou began teaching that “sex is a myth in our culture” and developed bizarre therapies to prove his theory. At 14, against Deb’s will, she was involved in several of the therapies. Knowing she wasn’t supposed to talk about what she had experienced, she also knew it wasn’t right, and told someone. The media got hold of the information and started bombarding Lou for interviews. When the church found out, they decided to take action and hold him accountable. On March 21, 1977, Lou submitted his resignation to the Methodist church to avoid a heresy trial.

Lou and several of his devoted followers decided to create their own community, and eventually purchased a 58-acre plot of land on Vashon Island in Washington State where they lived in big green army tents for years while the community built homes, and a couple buildings. They called themselves The Wesleyan Community, officially called, The Wesleyan Christian Community Church and Retreat Center. Deb shares the story of her time in Ingleside and on Vashon Island until she eventually escaped in February of 1981, when she was 19 years old.

Follow Deb on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkcults/

To find out more about #igotout, please visit: https://www.igotout.org/

Jennifer is a mental health counselor located in the Los Angeles area, using Internal Family Systems (IFS) as the primary modality of psychotherapy that she uses with clients. Jennifer will graduate with her second Masters degree in 2021 in the Psychology of Coercive Control. She works both across the US and internationally with those seeking insight and healing. For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.

In 1974, at twelve years old, Deb Donner’s mother joined what she thought was loving, trusting, close-knit Christian Fellowship, committed to helping anyone in need called, The Ingleside United Methodist Church. They called themselves The Fellowship, and they were pastored by a man named Lou Hillendahl who touted an ‘inner healing ministry’ that 'helped hundreds of people with all kinds of problems'.

TW: adult & child abuse & sexual abuse

Lou infused his version of biblical teachings with pseudo-psycho beliefs, constantly creating new “therapies” to “deal with the personal, family and sexual” problems he identified within his parishioners. In 1976, Lou began teaching that “sex is a myth in our culture” and developed bizarre therapies to prove his theory. At 14, against Deb’s will, she was involved in several of the therapies. Knowing she wasn’t supposed to talk about what she had experienced, she also knew it wasn’t right, and told someone. The media got hold of the information and started bombarding Lou for interviews. When the church found out, they decided to take action and hold him accountable. On March 21, 1977, Lou submitted his resignation to the Methodist church to avoid a heresy trial.

Lou and several of his devoted followers decided to create their own community, and eventually purchased a 58-acre plot of land on Vashon Island in Washington State where they lived in big green army tents for years while the community built homes, and a couple buildings. They called themselves The Wesleyan Community, officially called, The Wesleyan Christian Community Church and Retreat Center. Deb shares the story of her time in Ingleside and on Vashon Island until she eventually escaped in February of 1981, when she was 19 years old.

Follow Deb on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkcults/

To find out more about #igotout, please visit: https://www.igotout.org/

Jennifer is a mental health counselor located in the Los Angeles area, using Internal Family Systems (IFS) as the primary modality of psychotherapy that she uses with clients. Jennifer will graduate with her second Masters degree in 2021 in the Psychology of Coercive Control. She works both across the US and internationally with those seeking insight and healing. For more information, please visit her website, Jennifer-French.com.

Follow Jennifer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifermonica.holcomb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.french.jfh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr6Ufd0I7My6dumbTpQwn8A/playlists

If you would like to be on the Project Hope Podcast or have any inquiries regarding the show, please email, projecthopepodcast@jennifer-french.com.