The CULTural Zeitgeist

This week, we discuss Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and the MAHA movement. What does it really mean, and is it as good as it sounds? Short answer: Probably not. 

We finally cover Amy Carlson A.K.A. Mother God, who's cult of personality may have led to her undoing. 

Possibly one of the most influential people we have covered this far, Helena Blavatsky is considered a fraud by some but to us, she is just a 19th-century hustler girlie, who may or may not have been hustled herself. 

Bentino Massaro leveraged the internet to grow a devout following. His teachings are a spiritual circle jerk of nonsense that has led to one death and a trail of sexual assault allegations. 

Originally aired November 1, 2023 In 1981 residents of Antelope, Oregon found their small conservative town of 40 residents overtaken by thousands of orange-clad strangers. The outsiders came to Oregon looking to create a utopian society dedicated to their leader Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh. But years of investigations would find the Rajneeshees responsible for the first and largest bioterror attack on U.S. soil, and multiple attempted assassinations.   CONSIDER DONATING TO Safe Passage Foundation The Safe Passage Foundation provides resources, support and advocacy for people raised in restrictive, isolated or high-demand communities, colloquially referred to as "cults".   Reference: Keys, Scott. “A Strange but True Tale of Voter Fraud and Bioterrorism.” The Atlantic, 10 June 2014. Thuras, Dylan. “The Secret’s in the Sauce: Bioterror at the Salsa Bar.” Slate, 9 January 2014. Bassett, Andreas. “Fall From Grace: The Story of Rajneeshpuram.” The Pacific Sentinal, 10 May 2018 Kent, Dickon. “ What ‘Wild Wild Country’ Didn’t Say: 57 Answers to Questions About Rajneeshpuram from a Teenage Resident.” Medium, 16 April 2018 Wild Wild Country. Directed by Maclain Way and Chapman Way, Duplass Brothers Productions, 2018. Netflix.  

Belle Gibson continues to take her scheme to new levels, gets blasted on 60 Minutes, and takes cultural appropriation to a new level.    Please Consider Donating To Cancer Research Institute Cancer Research Institute’s mission is to save more lives by fueling the discovery and development of powerful immunotherapies for all types of cancer. It holds an A- from charity watchdog CharityWatch for it’s transparency and the amount of money it allocated to actually help fund research.   Resources Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. The Woman Who Fooled The World: Belle Gibson’s Cancer Con. Scribble, 2018 Ackerman, Tessa. “Cancer Fraudster Belle Gibson Rejected by Ethiopians.” The Weekend Australian. 24 January 2020 Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. “Friends and doctors raise doubts over 'Healing Belle' cancer claims.” The Age, 10 March 2015 Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. “Backlash over app developer Belle Gibson's missing charity money.” The Age, 9 March 2015 Weaver, Claire. “Belle Gibson: The Girl Who Conned Us All.” Now To Love, 25 July 2015  

Originally aired November 13, 2023 Wellness influencer Belle Gibson claimed that she had cured herself of malignant brain cancer through clean eating and coffee enemas. But, spoiler alert, she was a huge F*CKING liar.   Please Consider Donating To Cancer Research Institute Cancer Research Institute’s mission is to save more lives by fueling the discovery and development of powerful immunotherapies for all types of cancer. It holds an A- from charity watchdog CharityWatch for it’s transparency and the amount of money it allocated to actually help fund research.   Resources Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. The Woman Who Fooled The World: Belle Gibson’s Cancer Con. Scribble, 2018 Ackerman, Tessa. “Cancer Fraudster Belle Gibson Rejected by Ethiopians.” The Weekend Australian. 24 January 2020 Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. “Friends and doctors raise doubts over 'Healing Belle' cancer claims.” The Age, 10 March 2015 Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. “Backlash over app developer Belle Gibson's missing charity money.” The Age, 9 March 2015 Weaver, Claire. “Belle Gibson: The Girl Who Conned Us All.” Now To Love, 25 July 2015   The sheets I promised to link in the shownotes 

JZ Knight rose to prominence for channeling a Ramtha, a 35,000-year-old entity from a lost civilization. However, she quickly contorted her message of love and self-acceptance into a racist doomsday prediction that pit reptilian aliens against only the most enlightened of mankind. 

This episode was previously aired on 12/6/2023 Katie Griggs was a girl-bossing yoga teacher and somehow a follower of two cult leader creeps (Osho and Yogi Bhajan) we have already covered. So things went really well...     Resources  Phelan, Hayley. “The Second Coming of Guru Jagat.” Vanity Fair. 1 December 2021   Orecchio-Egresitz, Haven. “Before the sudden death of its leader, Ra Ma Yoga Institute was accused by some former members of being a cult. What happens now?” Business Insider. 30 October 2021   George, Cassidy. “Inside the Dubious World of RA MA Yoga, and Its Girl Boss Guru to the Stars” Vice. 13 July 2021   @RamaWrong on Instagram  “The Scandalous Celebrity Cult Leader From Suburbia” Not The Good Girl. Youtube. 27 December 2022

Krishna Venta was a vagabond before dedicating his life to cosplaying as Jesus and peddling a doomsday race war that would live on in infamy long after he was gone. 

Joyce Green was a stereotypical 60's housewife before abandoning her kids and transforming into the guru Ma Jaya Bhagavati, complete with visions of the dead and full-blown stigmata. 

This week, we cover the unsolved death of Astrologer and Yogi, Marcia Moore. Moore was a renowned writer on the metaphysical and went missing in 1979. 

This week, we continue our two-part episode on the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.  We cover the court of Oyer and Terminer and the low-key serial killer running the show. 

CULTured is our irregular, monthly roundup of news in the wellness, yoga, and true crime space.....plus whatever the hell else we want to talk about.    This month, we try to wrap our heads around the Diddy controversy and how deep the scandal goes. 

It's SPOOKY SEASON!    Join us for a deep dive into one of the most notorious events in American history, The Salem Witch Trials. We discuss the societal tensions and personal vendettas that fueled the hysteria, leading to the persecution of many innocent people.     

It's spooky season, and this week we cover the takeover of a small Mexican town by a group of hustlers that spirals into forced blood rituals, orgies, and human sacrifice. You know, super casual stuff.     

The Fox Sisters claimed to be able to speak to the dead, a claim that captivated a pre-Civil War America — but years of opposition, tragedy, and in-fighting proved to be their undoing.    Recommended listening: The Foxes of Hydesville 

Be prepared for our first on-air argument about spam thickness...Spoiler alert: We agree to disagree (but do we really?)     Louis DeWohl is a sham astrologer hired by the Brits to help stop Hilter. It's a weird one....but a fun one. 

This month, we dive into Netflix's Dancing for the Devil, the TwinRay cult, Men's Group ethics, and Swami Satchidananda's possible VD   Netflix's Dancing for the Devil Be Scofield's Twin Ray expose (please donate to help keep her work going) MA'AT - Advocacy for victims of Aubert Bastiat Yogaville Lawsuit (again, Be Scofield - go donate if your can) I've Had It Podcast Lilias's Bones - A Witch Podcast

In this episode, we dive deep into the life of Miss Cleo, the charismatic face of the Psychic Readers Network. We explore her rise to fame, the controversies that surrounded her, and the eventual downfall that left her devastated.  We discuss the deceptive practices of the Psychic Readers Network, the legal battles that ensued, and how Miss Cleo was exploited by the very company that made her famous.   Resources: Call Me Miss Cleo  Vice Interview with Miss Cleo  

Sarah burns it down.  Sarah Edmondson, with the support of Mark Vicente and Bonnie Piesse, take their case against Keith Raniere public and that POS goes on the run.  Trigger warnings for mentions of suicide and sexual assault are included as we delve into the darker aspects of this case. This episode is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with justice, heartbreak, and the resilience of those who fought back.   The Vow on MAX A Little Bit Culty with Sarah Edmonson and Nippy Ames

In this episode, we delve into the disturbing world of NXIVM, a so-called self-improvement organization founded by Keith Raniere and Nancy Salzman. Promising personal development and success through their proprietary "technology," NXIVM quickly garnered a following of dedicated members. However, beneath the surface lurked a sinister reality.   The Vow on MAX

In this episode, Jenna and Jess dive into the controversial world of Teal Swan, a self-proclaimed spiritual leader who has garnered a large following by claiming to be a spiritual catalyst. Teal hosts retreats and workshops but is unlicensed, unregulated, and dangerous as hell.    This episode is one huge trigger warning for suicide and sexual assault, please skip if you are not in the headspace to listen.  If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Your life matters.   The Gateway Podcast The Deep End

Join Jenna and Jess for their possible monthly roundup, where they dive into spirituality, wellness, pop culture, and all the things. First up: Andrew Keegan clarifies his status amidst cult rumors on the 'Pod Meets World' podcast. Hear the backstory and why Jenna and Jess think he's just a hippie with a lot of money. Next: Claire Bronfman, a former benefactor of NXIVM, has been released from prison. Learn about her connection to the notorious cult and the legal battles she's faced. Lastly: A TikTok user claims essential oils and affirmations can fix bad eyesight. Spoiler alert: Jenna and Jess think this is a terrible idea. Stick around to find out what cults Jenna and Jess would join this week, and why child-free Disney trips are the ultimate luxury. 

The Modern Mystery School is an organization that considers itself the Harvard of Metaphysics. They teach a mixture of martial arts, meditation, reiki, and witchcraft to enact the will of ancient aliens, all while raking in millions by stoking fear of apocalypse demons. So. Super cool. 

Gregorian Bivolaru made headlines last year for being caught after 8 years on the run from international law enforcement for being an unhinged perv while marketing himself as a yoga guru. 

Serge Benhayon is a nut job who believes (amongst many things) that he received divine messages while taking a prolonged #2. Needless to say things don't get much better from there. 

OneTaste was a San Francisco-based startup in the early aughts based on the concept of Orgasmic Meditation. But what started as a women's empowerment group turned real fucking shady as its founder tried to turn their circle jerk into a religion. 

Travel back to the turn of the 20th century for a glimpse into America's first yoga sex cult starring a gaggle of harlots wearing (gasp) tights, and a man unironically and inappropriately donning a turban. 

Today we chat with our dear friend Rachael Cohen, an energy worker, intuitive medium, and author of the upcoming book Self Care of Eco-Anxiety. We dabble into Tiktok psychics, astrology, intuitive abilities, and mediumship.    Connect with Rachael Cohen - Our Infinite Nature Website Instagram / Tiktok / Youtube Preorder Self Care for Eco-Anxiety    

James Arthur Ray was a motivational speaker who found success after he was featured in the 2006 film The Secret. But his hubris landed him in hot water after three people died at one of his self-help retreats.    Before attending an event or teacher training check out the site before for red flags to be aware of.  Seek Safely 

In 1995, filmmaker Allen Ross is missing and his friends begin to suspect that his involvement in a spiritual dowsing cult may have something to do with his disappearance. 

Anne Hamilton-Byrne is a yoga instructor who used meditation and LSD to establish a cult centered around the idea that she was the reincarnation of Jesus Christ, while also unlawfully acquiring 28 children to expand her following.   Join our Patreon to support our production and get a shout-out in our next episode. Try 7 days free! Instagram - @spirituallyeffedpodcast

We knew we would eventually have to cover the human garbage that is Bikram Choudhury, but it doesn't mean we like it. Bikram is an over-the-top, abusive, and delusional predator who still has followers today but should just be in jail.      Join our Patreon to support our production and get a shout out in our next episode. Try 7 days free! Instagram - @spirituallyeffedpodcast

Psychics. Romance Novels. Love faxes with Colin Powell. This story has everything you could ask for. Except for your money back.    Our Infinite Nature     Join our Patreon to support our production and get a shout out in our next episode. Try 7 days free! Instagram - @spirituallyeffedpodcast

Aum Shinrikyo is a cult that transitioned from a new-age religion to a terrorist organization engaged in horrific crimes under the leadership of its ambitious and deluded leader, Shoko Asahara. Asahara used sensory, sleep, and food deprivation, sexual assault, and even murder, to ensure that his yoga cult could bring forth the end of days, leaving him as the supreme ruler of Japan.   Creepy Dancing Video   Join our Patreon to support our production and get a shout out in our next episode. Try 7 days free! Instagram - @spirituallyeffedpodcast

Learn about the devastating transition of Aum Shinrikyo from a spiritual organization to a terrorist organization engaged in horrific crimes under the leadership of its ambitious and deluded leader, Shoko Asahara. Asahara used sensory, sleep, and food deprivation, sexual assault, and even murder, to ensure that his yoga cult could bring forth the end of days, leaving him as the supreme ruler of Japan.   Reply All - Episode 120: INVCEL Foundation on Apple+ - Disclaimer: I have not actually seen this, but if you are interested, here it is.     Join our Patreon to support our production and get a shout out in our next episode. Try 7 days free! Instagram - @spirituallyeffedpodcast      

The Buddhafield is a bodacious cult from the 80’s that was devoted to yoga, dance, and maintaining rockin’ bods. Their leader was known for rocking guyliner, a speedo, and a penchant for sexual abuse.   Holy Hell - Will Allen’s Documentary on Peacock How to Become a Cult Leader: Episode 3, Reform Their Minds - Narrated by Peter Dinklage so, need I say more

Well, this one was full of trashy audio and went on for well over an hour before we artfully edited it to a manageable 52 minutes (you're welcome).   Today we finish our story about the disgusting Keith Ham (a week late...sorry, not sorry) and the multiple murders he committed to keep his followers from knowing he was a pedocreep.    In case you wanted one: Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead Tee from Discount Cemetery    

Keith Ham was a Hare Krishna leader of the West Virginia ashram called New Vrindaban, but he was harboring pretty gross secrets that would lead him to commit not one, but two grisly murders.    Krishnas: Gurus. Karma. Murder - Documentary on Peacock Hare Krishna Leader Tied to Murder Plot - Washington Post 

If you think Young Living was bad, doTerra isn't much better. doTerra turns a blind eye to the shady business dealings of it's middle man and lies about it's charitable work overseas    IUCN The Price of Purity on Vice TV Beeyo Mal    

D. Gary Young is known as an essential oil trailblazer who started a wildly successful company with millions of devoted followers, but before Gary introduced the world to Thieves he had also spent a good amount of time in jail. Apparently, pretending to be a doctor is against the law, but don't worry, jail didn't stop this go-getter. 

A non-depressing tale of how Little Women author Louisa May Alcott grew up in a failed Dickensian hipster cult run by her father, an educator and dedicated vegan, who was very much, ahead of his time.    

Katie Griggs was a girl-bossing yoga teacher and somehow a follower of two cult leader creeps (Osho and Yogi Bhajan) we have already covered. So things went really well...     Resources  Phelan, Hayley. “The Second Coming of Guru Jagat.” Vanity Fair. 1 December 2021   Orecchio-Egresitz, Haven. “Before the sudden death of its leader, Ra Ma Yoga Institute was accused by some former members of being a cult. What happens now?” Business Insider. 30 October 2021   George, Cassidy. “Inside the Dubious World of RA MA Yoga, and Its Girl Boss Guru to the Stars” Vice. 13 July 2021   @RamaWrong on Instagram  “The Scandalous Celebrity Cult Leader From Suburbia” Not The Good Girl. Youtube. 27 December 2022

Yogi Bhajan came to the US to spread the teachings of Kundalini Yoga, something he claimed was an ancient spiritual practice, but ...turns out he made the whole thing up and left a trail of sexual abuse and shady business deals along the way.    RESOURCES Deslippe, Philip. “From Maharaj to Mahan Tantric: The Construction of Yogi Bhajan's Kundalini Yoga”  Dyson, Pamela Saharah. Premka: White Bird in A Golden Cage. Eyes Wide Publishing. 2020 Scofield, Be. “Master of Deceit: How Yogi Bhajan Used Kundalini Yoga for Money, Sex And Power.” The Guru Magazine

Belle Gibson continues to take her scheme to new levels, gets blasted on 60 Minutes, and takes cultural appropriation to a new level.    Please Consider Donating To Cancer Research Institute Cancer Research Institute’s mission is to save more lives by fueling the discovery and development of powerful immunotherapies for all types of cancer. It holds an A- from charity watchdog CharityWatch for it’s transparency and the amount of money it allocated to actually help fund research.   Resources Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. The Woman Who Fooled The World: Belle Gibson’s Cancer Con. Scribble, 2018 Ackerman, Tessa. “Cancer Fraudster Belle Gibson Rejected by Ethiopians.” The Weekend Australian. 24 January 2020 Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. “Friends and doctors raise doubts over 'Healing Belle' cancer claims.” The Age, 10 March 2015 Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. “Backlash over app developer Belle Gibson's missing charity money.” The Age, 9 March 2015 Weaver, Claire. “Belle Gibson: The Girl Who Conned Us All.” Now To Love, 25 July 2015      

Wellness influencer Belle Gibson claimed that she had cured herself of malignant brain cancer through clean eating and coffee enemas. But, spoiler alert, she was a huge F*CKING liar.   Please Consider Donating To Cancer Research Institute Cancer Research Institute’s mission is to save more lives by fueling the discovery and development of powerful immunotherapies for all types of cancer. It holds an A- from charity watchdog CharityWatch for it’s transparency and the amount of money it allocated to actually help fund research.   Resources Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. The Woman Who Fooled The World: Belle Gibson’s Cancer Con. Scribble, 2018 Ackerman, Tessa. “Cancer Fraudster Belle Gibson Rejected by Ethiopians.” The Weekend Australian. 24 January 2020 Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. “Friends and doctors raise doubts over 'Healing Belle' cancer claims.” The Age, 10 March 2015 Donelly, Beau and Nick Toscano. “Backlash over app developer Belle Gibson's missing charity money.” The Age, 9 March 2015 Weaver, Claire. “Belle Gibson: The Girl Who Conned Us All.” Now To Love, 25 July 2015   The sheets I promised to link in the shownotes 

A quick update on the Kaitlin Armstrong trail, new evidence was presented, petty gauntlets were thrown, a muppet of a man got his foot stomped on by a grown-ass adult.