S3 Ep2 Cults Series - The Children of God

Release Date: June 10, 2021Summary: This episode is a deep dive into one of the mostnotorious cults—The Children of God, aka The Family International. Jesus andRudy tackle the abuse, propaganda, and lasting trauma left behind by thisgroup.Key Talking Points:• Origins of the Children of God cult• David Berg and the use of ‘Flirty Fishing’• Victims’ stories and public outcry• What makes cults psychologically addictive?Contextual Deep Dive:• The Children of God began in 1968 and promoted sexual exploitation as a religious act.• ‘Flirty Fishing’ was a method of recruiting men via sex, often involving minors (source: BBC, Cult EducationInstitute).• Notable survivors like Joaquin Phoenix and Rose McGowan have spoken out about their childhoods in the cult.• Experts say isolation, love bombing, and identity erasure are common tactics used by cults.Listener Prompts:• What warning signs define a cult to you?• Why do people stay in toxic or abusive systems?• How should society support survivors of cult abuse?