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The CULTure

The CULTure podcasters.spotify.com
Welcome to the CULTure, a true crime podcast that focuses ONLY on cults. Hosted by Anna, a nerd who's obsessed with religion and psychology, and her co-host Mark, who's afraid of all things spooky. Each week we'll uncover the story behind a different cult with belly laughs and good conversation. We warmly welcome you into.....the CULTure. Produced by The Parea Collective
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Episodes

Episode 42 - Shekinah & Our Final Goodbye

In this episode Anna and Mark cover the recent Netflix Documentary "Dancing for the Devil". This mini docuseries covers the Robert Shinn led church, Shekinah. A quick recap of the series and a wrap up of The Culture as our hosts sign-off for the last time. Thank you to everyone who has supported the podcast. Your support means the world. Always remember, dont drink the kool-aid.......

Jul 10, 202437 minSeason 1Ep. 42

Episode 41 - Mother God

Anna and Mark are back with their first episode of 2024. With all the buzz around the recent HBO docuseries "Mother God" it was only fitting to start here for the new year. This episode focuses on Amy Carlson and her background, their core beliefs, and some of the footage of the docuseries. ***Language warning: This episode contains language that may not be appropriate for young listeners. Sources for this episode: HBO's Docuseries "Mother God" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amy_Carlson_(religiou...

Jan 06, 202440 minSeason 1Ep. 41

Episode 40 - Escaping Twin Flames

Anna and Mark react to the recent docuseries in Netflix "Escaping Twin Flames". Covered in a past episode (8) of this podcast, episode 40 is more of a reaction and commentary on the docuseries as a whole. Thank you to everyone who continues to support this podcast, please reach out if you have any thoughts or suggestions for future episodes. Have a great holiday and remember, dont drink the kool-aid. Sources used in this episode: Netflix's "Escaping Twin Flames" Follow us on instagram for additi...

Nov 21, 202354 minSeason 1Ep. 40

Episode 39 - Church of God Restoration

Anna and Mark are back discussing a group based out of Greensville Ohio called "The Church of God Restoration". A group that started in 1880, this religious group bases their teachings on the Christian faith, but continues to write scripture and has living Apostles. Sources for this episode: The church of God Restoration Facebook Page www.churchofgod.com "Apostate Ashley" on Youtube

Nov 10, 202339 minSeason 1Ep. 39

Episode 38 - La Luz Del Mundo Pt. 2

Anna and Mark finish their two part series on La Luz Del Mundo. Inspired to cover this group from the recent docuseries on HBO entitled "Unveiled", part 2 is a direct commentary on the three part series. From allegations & eventual convictions of sexual assault, bribery, and physical violence, this episode touches on it all as told by former members of La Luz Del Mundo. If you haven't listened to episode 36 yet, make sure you get the background on this group before listening to this episode....

Jul 08, 202339 minSeason 1Ep. 38

Episode 37 - Shiny Happy People

Anna and Mark discuss the recent docuseries available on Amazon entitled "Shiny Happy People". This is a 4 episode series that examines the Duggar family from the television show 19 Kids and Counting. For those unfamiliar with the IBPL and their teachings, make sure you listen to episode 7 of the podcast where they cover that group in depth. Thanks to all the fans of the pod and remember, don't drink the kool-aid. Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure

Jun 24, 202339 minSeason 1Ep. 37

Episode 36 - La Luz Del Mundo Pt. 1

Anna and Mark are back to discuss the religious group known as Iglesia del Dios Vivo, Columna y Apoyo de la Verdad, La Luz del Mundo; or more commonly known as La Luz Del Mundo. This series of episodes will focus on their religious beliefs as well as the controversies laid out in the HBO documentary Unveiled. Thanks to all for supporting the pod, and remember, don't drink the kool-aid. Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure Sources for this episode: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Luz_del_Mundo h...

Mar 26, 202324 minSeason 1Ep. 36

Episode 35 - Sins of Our Mother Pt. 2

Anna and Mark wrap up the 2022 year by finishing their discussion of the Netflix docuseries "The Sins of Our Mother". They finish up the story of Lori Vallow, the woman who failed to produce her missing children only for the world to find out later that they were dead and buried in Chad Daybell's yard. For those who are following along, Part 2 focuses on episode 2 and 3 of the series. The trail is set for April of 2023 where Chad and Lori will meet their fate. The CULTure would like to thank eve...

Dec 30, 202244 minSeason 1Ep. 35

Episode 34 - Sins of Our Mother Pt. 1

Anna and Mark are back to break down the Netflix limited series "The Sins of Our Mother". The show follows the true story of Lori Vallow and her vanishing children. From hyper religiosity to becoming a prophet of God, there is plenty to talk about in this cult-adjacent story. Follow along with our hosts over the next couple weeks as they dissect the rest of the episodes and as always, don't drink the kool-aid. Follow us on IG @The.Cult.ure

Dec 22, 202231 minSeason 1Ep. 34

Episode 33 - Anna's Big Fat Greek Wedding

Anna and Mark are back with some life updates and a recap of Anna's wedding a few months back. It was Mark's first Greek Orthodox wedding and he has some thoughts, a few of which are cult-adjacent. Our hosts give a few life updates and whether or not these newest batch of true crime shows are good for society. They will be back soon with new episodes about religious groups but for now enjoy the sound of their voices and remember, don't drink the kool-aid...... Follow us on Instagram @The.Cult.ur...

Nov 22, 202236 minSeason 1Ep. 33

Episode 32 - Teal Swan Pt. 2

Anna and Mark are back with their two-part series on the documentary "The Deep End". The relationships become complicated and Mary Scott has decisions to make about her inner circle. Lives are altered and some people will never be the same. As always, dont drink the kool-aid. Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure

Sep 04, 202253 min

Episode 31 - Teal Swan Pt. 1

** Trigger Warning: This episodes contains conversation about sexual & physical abuse. Listener discretion is advised. Anna and Mark explore the life and work of Mary Teal Scott, AKA Teal Swan. From her beginnings in AZ & Utah, to her social media presence and bold blunt approach, Anna breaks down early life and rise to power. The two hosts also walk through episode 1 of the four part docuseries available now on Hulu entitled "The Deep End". Follow along with them over the next two episo...

Aug 03, 202252 minSeason 1Ep. 31

Episode 30 - Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey Companion Pt. 2

Trigger Warning****** This episode contains conversation about sexual assault Anna and Mark finish their discussion of the Netflix limited series "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey". Episode 3 and 4 focus on the creation of "Zion" and the trail and downfall of Warren Jeffs. Thanks to everyone who continues to support the podcast! And remember, dont drink the kool-aid.

Jul 01, 202252 minSeason 1Ep. 30

Episode 29 - Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey Companion Pt. 1

Anna and Mark discuss the recent trending documentary series on Netflix called "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey". Part one of this companion covers episode one and two of the FLDS mini-series. The hosts give their reactions to the footage and go back and revisit moments from episode 5 of The Culture where FLDS is the focus. More to come on this mini-series in the upcoming weeks. Tune in and remember, don't drink the Kool-aid. Sources for this episode: "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey" on Netflix....

Jun 15, 202243 minSeason 1Ep. 29

Episode 28 - Eva's Eden

Anna and Mark are back to dive into a not so scary religious group called Eva's Eden. Started by Rev. Sheryl Ruthven in Washington, used a cat shelter as a front for this growing religious movement. This hodgepodge of religious symbols and ceremonies have one thing in common, she is the prophet and the cats are the angels... Give the episode a listen to get more details and remember, dont drink the kool-aid. Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure Episode Notes: "Apocalypse Meow: How a Cult That Be...

May 20, 202229 minSeason 1Ep. 28

Episode 27 - John of God

Anna and Mark break down Jaeo Teieira a.k.a. John of God. This spiritual healer lived in Brazil and began performing miraculous signs and wonder through the power of the "entity" that he was able to embody. People came from great distances to get help when modern medicine couldnt get it done. From his compound called "Casa de Dom Inacio de Loyola", he performed thousands of spiritual and physical operations. From tumors and cancer to paralyzed individuals, no ailment was too much for John of God...

Apr 10, 202239 min

Episode 26 - NXIVM and "The Vow" Pt. 2

Anna and Mark are back with part 2 of their analysis of the documentary "The Vow". In this episode the focus is on episode 2 and three of the limited series. From NXIVM weddings to the inner circle DOS, Anna walks Mark through the downfall of this organization and the unfortunate situations that some of these women found themselves in. Thanks to all our fans for tuning in and remember.....don't drink the kool-aid. Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure Sources for this episode: "The Vow" documenta...

Mar 09, 202227 min

Episode 25 - NXIVM and "The Vow" Pt. 1

Anna and Mark look deeper into the documentary "The Vow" which is currently available on HBO Max. The documentary, which originally aired in 2020, investigates the NXIVM group and follows the story through the trial and conviction of its leader, Keith Raniere. Part 1 of our series focuses on episode 1 and 2 of this documentary series. As always, thanks for supporting the pod and remember, don't drink the kool-aid... Follow us on instagram @The.Cult.ure Sources used in this episode: "The Vow" doc...

Feb 24, 202236 minSeason 1Ep. 25

Episode 24 - NXIVM

Anna and Mark are back with their first episode of 2022. To start the year, the hosts focus on Keith Raniere's group NXIVM. This philosophical movement and social development program was established in 1998, but quickly gets out of hand. Listen as Anna explains the mental manipulation that people were put through and the narcissistic actions by Keith and other leaders alike. Anna brings it up to present day with current status of high ranking officials and Mark speculates on the future for this ...

Feb 03, 202254 minSeason 1Ep. 24

Episode 23 - Scientology Pt. 3 w/Going Clear

In this episode Anna and Mark discuss the documentary "Going Clear" which is currently available on HBO Max. They give their reactions as well as fact check against the previous two episodes of the podcast where they covered this group in depth. Anna cant get over the creation story as explained in the film, while Mark pieces things together now that he's seen some visuals. This is the last episode of the year, and a huge thanks goes out to the cult fam for sticking with us. Have a great holiday...

Dec 22, 20211 hrSeason 1Ep. 23

Episode 22 - Scientology Pt. 2

Anna and Mark are back to finish up their quick look at the world of Scientology. Part 2 focuses on the beliefs of this group, and the practical day to day life for those involved. Anna shares a great first date story that ended badly with a former member. Anna also walks through recent history and controversy with this group. Look for an upcoming episode in which Anna and Mark will be reacting to watching the Scientology documentary "Going Clear" and remember cult fam, dont drink the kool-aid. ...

Dec 08, 202155 minSeason 1Ep. 22

Episode 21 - Scientology Pt. 1

Anna and Mark start a two-part series on Scientology. Part 1 focuses on the founder of Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard. From his early life to the founding of the "church" in 1954, it sets the stage for a deep dive in Part 2. Anna also lays out some of the foundational beliefs and tenets of this group to help Mark wrap his head around how this organization works. Thanks to all who listen and support us, please leave us a rating and review on Apple podcasts and remember.....don't drink the kool-aid. ...

Nov 24, 202155 minSeason 1Ep. 21

Episode 20 - The Remnant Fellowship Pt. 2

Anna and Mark revisit the Remnant Fellowship (first covered in episode 14) after viewing the HBO Max documentary "The Way Down". They re-hash the mini series and compare it to what they knew prior. Whether you've watched the doc or not, this episode dives deeper into the group and somehow still leaves you wanting more. And remember cult fam, don't drink the kool-aid. Follow us on instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure

Oct 22, 202153 minSeason 1Ep. 20

Episode 19 - The Seekers

Anna and Mark discuss the 1950's short lived movement called The Seekers, or sometimes called The Rapurists. Started by Dorothy Martin, a once Scientologist, she receives a message from the aliens that the world is going down and they need to get off. After a few failed attempts, or maybe a misreading of the calendar, the group disbands. Mark and Anna both immediate recall the Parks and Rec episode with a similar plot line. Mark enjoys covering a group with no violence or crime, but of course An...

Sep 21, 202134 minSeason 1Ep. 19

Episode 18 - Hare Krishnas

Mark and Anna are back! This episode looks at the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, or Hare Krishnas. This Hindu derived group found a home in areas like San Francisco during the 70s, but has found sustainable membership in the East. Anna loves the idea of a cow sanctuary while Mark thinks the amount of daily mahamantras is a bit over the top. Thanks for the support cult fam, and remember not to drink the kool-aid. Follow us on instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure Episode...

Aug 31, 202139 minSeason 1Ep. 18

Episode 17 - The Amish

Anna and Mark are back! They discuss what occurred that made them take a break and kick off the return by focusing on Jakob Amman and the Amish. Birthed from the Mennonite but soon split due to belief issues, this group is often misunderstood due to television and movie stereotypes. Anna explains the difference between old world and new world amish, and Mark officially declares this his favorite episode so far. Thanks for listening cult fam, and remember, don't drink the kool-aid! Follow us on i...

Jul 26, 202150 minSeason 1Ep. 17

Fun Size Bonus Ep 4 - Cult-Like Tendencies Pt. 2

Anna and Mark have come up with a few more "Culty" things in society that they share with the fam. They tackle dentist offices, timeshares, and many more. If you have any suggestions for the next fun size episode, send us a DM! Hope you enjoy cult fam! Follow us on instagram for exclusive content @The.Cult.ure

Jul 07, 202122 minSeason 1Ep. 4

Episode 16 - The Twelve Tribes

Anna and Mark discuss Eugene Elbert Spriggs and his 1970s religious movement called The Twelve Tribes. An attempt to prepare for the second coming of Christ, Eugene and his group go old testament with a long list of rules to follow including no personal wealth, community parenting and discipline and a dress code. Anna is out on the low-key child labor while Mark is looking forward to visiting a Yellow Deli in the near future. As always thanks to the cult fam for listening, and remember, dont dri...

Jun 30, 202141 minSeason 1Ep. 16

Episode 15 - The Moonies

Click the link below if you want to support our podcast. Thanks Cult Fam! https://anchor.fm/theculturepod/support Anna and Mark discuss Sun Myung Moon's group who originated under the name of the Unification Church in South Korea. Moon hears from God as a youth and must finish the work that Jesus started. This group takes a lot from other spiritual beliefs in South East Asia, but is probably most well-known for their large "blessing ceremonies" that peaked in 2009 with 20,000 people attending. A...

Jun 15, 202150 minSeason 1Ep. 15

Episode 14 - Remnant Fellowship

Anna and Mark discuss Gwen Shamblin Lara's Remnant Fellowship on this weeks episode. Due to the recent tragedy, they felt it was right to skip ahead in their timeline to give the info on this current group. Gwen's first successful endeavor, The Weigh Down Workshop, was started in 1986 and quickly took Christian churches by storm. This weight loss for Jesus movement inspired her to take it one step further and she developed a behavior-driven gospel movement that will become the Remnant Fellowship...

Jun 09, 202149 minSeason 1Ep. 14
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