My life has been almost stripped away by another religious cult at my mother’s hand - your story resonates with me, and I understand the tears. I am there as well.
Incredible interview. I exited an abusive marriage and so much of what he said reminded me of being trapped in that abusive situation. The mind control is soul destroying. It is so difficult to get away from. ☘️🌝🌲
So true- my own sister & her ex husband were part of a quasi cult led by the typical dictatorial, arrogant, hypocritical and womanizing narcissistic founder & leader - Big shocker🙄, turns out they embezzled $1mil+ from their gullible, earnest followers *_HOWEVER_* the absolute worst part was the terrible & long term impact that twisted man & his apostate mindset & teachings wrought upon his group’s members…no drama, just facts: to this day, the fallout includes sister’a family splintered and broken…a book could be written😔💔 God loathes such egomaniacal cult leaders & the devastation heaped upon searching, vulnerable individuals.
I’ve been watching Dr. Hassan for years (he helped me see how much thought control there is in fundamentalist evangelicalism) and it was wonderful to hear a deep dive into his own story 💛 What a powerful legacy he has created
Are you kidding? The Mormons aren't evangelists. They are a cult - no religion. Here in Europe they don't even have legally the status of a religion. And they have nothing to do with the Evangelium. Stop spreading false information.
Love Steve and his story! He's transformed his life, and now is attempting to assist all who has been through this experience! Talk about "paying it forward!" A fantastic individual, and inspiring! Also, just a another revealing aspect of this incredible podcast, notice here is John and Steve, both have their image mirroring each other! There's a brilliance within these two! Of assisting people with their lives, teaching unconditional Love! This will have a ripple effect to perhaps thousands of people! Best, interview yet! ♥️🎻😎
Steven Hassan is an absolute legend! Thank you so much, Steve, for everything you do and for sharing your story. Sam was absolutely the best cohost for this episode! Excellent choice, John! I've read all of Steven's books, but I feel like I learned so much from this episode. I think this just became my favorite episode of Mormon Stories. Please make sure this video is never lost to time or space, because it is going to make a difference to lives for decades to come.
I agree! I'm a huge M.S. student & listener! I often take notes with books recommended and or make copies of clips, to keep track of information for my own research! Steve is a cult favorite now! Pun intended! LOL! Thank- You, O.S.F., and Sam! 🎻♥️😎
One thing I always thought, back when I was a true believer in the church, was “there are so many people more intelligent and educated than me that believe this so it must be true”. I now realize there are intelligent people who believe all kinds of things and just because a bunch of “smart” people believe a religious or political doctrine doesn’t make it true. I am amazed at the things otherwise intelligent people can believe in. It helps me forgive myself for the things I used to believe in that are pretty silly looking at it from the outside. It’s also very easy to view your own beliefs as logical and see other people’s beliefs as ridiculous.
This is a good point about being smart and yet being fooled . Jesus says, be careful, even the elect can be deceived! I always think that Satan is smarter than most people's faith. He is the deceiver!
Just because you're smart doesn't mean you are intelligent. I was in the Pentecostal religion out for 30 years however, I'm still affected by what I was taught! It goes back to the brimstone and fire!
@ Marlene What does “true believer in the church” mean? Yeshua never called us to believe in church. Seems you were preoccupied with the happenings of people, rather than ever encountering Yeshua who calls us to Himself.
It was so refreshing too hear how positive it was to grow up Jewish. Too have had the freedom to explore life and how you felt about it without external pressure to confirm, must have been a true gift.
I have read Steve's book Freedom of Mind and it is the greatest gift to humanity ...... he has shared so much with us, and we will never stop learning from him. His teachings can be applied to all aspects of life, and addictions in which ever form they come in. A great discussion, thank you so much. Watching from New Zealand 💖🙏💖
I’m not new to Steven’s story, nor yours John, but I have learned new lessons today. Thank you all, Samantha included, for the vulnerability and guidance.
I usually stay away from cults. But I like that a mormon told me that the holy bible was written by sinners. That gave me thought that a lot of people are ruled by the flesh and it God.
I love how Steven's emotional reactions to certain moments of time illuminate what's really important in life and what has the deepest and truest power: instances of connection, love, valuing another, and the like. These are what can dislodge rigid belief systems.
This did not disappoint. I am very thankful Steve was able to come out and spend his time to share his story with us. What a valuable way to spend his time here.
In the early 90s, I went on a trip to Korea paid for by the Moonies. They were doing a PR campaign, to show the world how normal they were, and anyone who had a leadership position in their own church, could go on the Moonies dime. It was mostly pastors from Christian churches, but as a Mormon and youth leader, I was excepted to go on scholarship. They took us by bus to their version of the sacred grove, and it was déjà vu learning about Reverend Moon’s experience there as I had heard it so many times about Joseph Smith. Nearly identical.
@@philmabarak5421 The sentence"What does that supposed to mean?" is incorrect because "supposed" is not the base form of the verb that follows "does". Instead, "is supposed to" is a set phrase where "is" acts as the auxiliary verb.❤
I find it hard to accept that adults get caught up in nonsense like Mormonism and the moonies. . What a waste of time. Even if you meet someone you like, they are caught up in nonsense too!!!! It’s ridiculous and absurd. But millions of people are deluded. So dumb.
I’m really excited about listening to these interviews! I’ve been a huge fan of Stephen Hassan for several year. I am an ex- Scientologist, and have found his books and talks eye-opening and educational. Plus, he’s an absolutely delightful human being 😎 I have a Mormon sister, and am also a fan and supporter of yours, Dr. Dehlin! It’s going to be such a treat to listen to this! If either of you makes it out to Northern California, I would love to take you out for a meal. ❤
Wow! Steve had me tearing up too. What a wonderful man, bringing such a powerful message. That bit about, "you lived it". Being able to find value in even the worst of circumstances is something I live by. Using the lessons on One's own experiences to help others. Sharing empathy. Not telling people what to do but rather helping them to find their own answers. To me, one of the most fulfilling things we can do. Thank you Steve, for using your life experience to help so many others.
What an amazing interview. So VERY powerful. As a former JW with all my family still in, this is so moving hearing how he decided to do his true life’s work ❤
Coincidentally, JW’s came to my house today . I live in Connecticut and we have JW visits often. I wasn’t here but my husband spoke to them for quite some time. It was extremely hot- 98 degrees and very humid. My husband said they were the nicest, most respectful people he’s met in awhile and he understood how we can be influenced by them. WOW! ! We humans… what a bunch
@@MKConnecticut by far and away most of them are genuinely sincere and good hearted people, thank your husband for being kind to them. Many people slam doors on them and I personally as a child had a gun pointed at me more than once while “in the ministry”. Arguing and mistreatment only add to the already indoctrinated persecution complex. Kindness and sincere questions are how to get through to JWs. Thank you for sharing!
I am a witness. We would never use moonie methods to force or trick people. We study what the bible says. Then people use their free will, become a witness or not.
Another incredible guest and interview. I am Ojibwe/Blackfeet/European and my husband is Jewish (both Ashkenazi and Sephardic) so this resonated with me, personally, more than other podcasts. When Dr. Hassan spoke about the Holocaust making him feel more in touch with his Jewishness, that really cannot be overstated. It is highlighted in the famous quote of Golda Meir told to a new young U.S. Senator, Joe Biden, who was in Israel during the Yom Kippur War of 1973. She said, "We don’t worry, senator. We Israelis have a secret weapon. We have nowhere else to go.” That feeling really is a weapon and a strength for a people who have been outcasts for, as you said it, Dr. Dehlin, "millenium". I see now in my husband, and in other American Jews, the return of that absolute assuredness that there is nowhere else to go, especially with the rise in antisemitism and what appears to be an extreme left-leaning support of Palestine in popular media. Which isn't to say that I don't understand that leaning. Of course, I do. Three generations of homelessness and refugee status, in not just Israel but also in Jordan, Egypt, and Lebanon, creates great despair, hopelessness, and helplessness. As a Native American, I understand those feelings and where that history can take you. BUT, I know you prefer not to discuss politics (what can I say, I'm a political scientist), and really this comment was just another thank you for an excellent broadcast. I wasn't familiar with Dr. Hassan until now.
It would be so powerful for Hassan to dive into the programming of the former president's followers. We've watched a huge cult forming before our eyes that is poised to take over our government and destroy the constitution. Knowledge like Hassan's could make a difference if it were widespread.
All the way from Gaborone, Botswana, Africa..I’m grateful for this interview..an eye opener , recovering from leaving Mormonism ,will definitely get the books🙏Thank you ❤️
I'm an ex member of WMSCOG which Dr Steve has extensively investigated and spoken out against. In the church they make videos about how bad he is :'D Thanks for your work Steve!!
Those kind of call outs almost ALWAYS cause members to seek it out if they've never heard of it. Lmao I had never heard of John Dehlin, or exmormons anywhere but reddit. Thankfully I learned how to google.
I'm so glad this episode was playing when I woke up this morning. Wow Steve, You got Me at the end, I'm crying like a baby. Love is it, it's everything.
One of the most amazing interviews I have ever watched - and I have watched a lot of them... Steven Hassan is so perfectly well spoken and the interviewer did a terrific job just letting Dr. Hassan speak. So impressed!
My grandfather was in a cult called Direct Credit Society during and just after the Great Depression. The head guy was Alfred E Lawson who also named part of it Lawsonomy. Member families had many rules to live by including vegetarian foods, and sending your children who lived in cities to live with members who were farmers to learn how to grow their own foods, being loyal to your spouse. When you Dad went to their " university" he saw Lawson eating steak, and a member revealed her teenage daughter was having Lawson's baby although he had a wife.
thank you for this info I am going to dig into it soon. The vegetarian part, not so culty, sending your children off totally culty. Teenage daughter issue, religion in general. The name of the cult is what has me interested
Can't believe how lucky I was today, I went to purchase Steven's book on Audible and I had credit. Guess what I'll be listening to for the next 13 hours! With a few breaks of course 😁
This was helpful, interesting and powerful. Thank you so much for coming on this podcast. I'm not particularly educated on this area and it's been a pleasure.
Fascinating discussion. I'm so inspired to follow in Steve's footsteps after suffering immeasurable personal loss as a result of being indoctrinated by the Jehovah Witness cult. I too dropped out of university but now desire a psychology degree to ultimately be able to help people be equipped with strong mental health to empower them to exit and heal from cults. Thank you MPS, the insight shared here by Steve relating his experiences are truly precious.❤ and much respect to you all.
I think that would be an awesome way to take your pain and contribute to your and others healing. I hope you have been able to take some steps in that direction.
Brilliant podcast! Dr.Hassan’s experience and teaching of the BITE model is priceless. He has helped more people than he may ever know. Sincere gratitude to all @Mormon Stories for their time and talents. 🙏
Wow! This interview was incredible! Steven's story, all the interesting beliefs of the Mooneys, Samantha's commentary and John leading the interview. It was all wonderful! It's incredible as a former Mormon to see all of this cult information revealed on Mormon Stories. It helps me feel like we can learn a wiser way of living. ❤️❤️❤️
Appreciation+ for you Dr. Steven Hassan your strength, bravery and love for others you are such a wonderful inspiration to me and I am sure for so many others. At this moment you are my favorite man on the planet. Thank You for sharing your experience and your dedication for others fulfillment and finding the truth.
I was married to a pathological narcissist for 2 years. So many similarities. I was brainwashed, controlled, lost my identity. Last January, I snapped, realized it was all a lie. After a difficult time of recovery, I'm finally starting to feel healthy.
Same here. Being with a pathological narcissist is the exact same as being in a cult. It was the worst thing I have ever been through, resulting in a nervous breakdown. Best thing that ever happened to me. It have me armor I will use for the rest of my life. I now completely understand how this happens to absolutely anyone.
My husband also has a personality that I have diagnosed him with. This personality developed over time. I got out 2 yrs ago. I got SSDI. Before the disability came I remember my husband saying what he would do with that money. I'm so glad I'm out of the marriage. I live now in a manageable 1 bedroom apartment. I was in the marriage for 30 yrs. I have 3 adult children.
I think it is fascinating how it is possible to extricate oneself from mind control like this. I did successfully apply this methodology without knowing what I was doing at all and prior to ever being introduced to Steven Hassan. I think that it is important to share this information to help as many people as possible.
Thank you, thank you. Looking on my experience with JW’s and major depression after being disfellowshipped. 30 years later, still struggle. I relate to the mind control and the need to understand how that happened. Appreciate your education and life focus which helps me trust what you say.
A few months ago I discovered this podcast and I was so sure that I would not ever subscribe bc it's so long and my time is precious. But here I am, already subscribed bc of a previous podcast, and I am glued to this one. I am 65 years old so I have heard a lot about the Moonies in my youth, but never ever as much as this. As an educator, I am even more convinced now that young ppl should learn more about various "religions", cults, and strange love-bombing groups and simply read more. Or more now, simply listen to informative podcasts. This guy is absolutely fascinating. I never had a clue about such tactics, rules, and regulations of this group. I got into researching more about cults bc I was absolutely convinced that I, an intelligent person, could never be drawn into a cult. But apparently, even the most intelligent of us beings can and will continue to be led down rabbit holes. Interesting. Keep them coming Mormon Stories Podcast. You have an avid listener all the way in the islands of The Bahamas!
.amazing .. on the Wake up... everyone is in a love bomb life. Yes, the fact is life is about love, and God is love and the true love bomber. and as a Jew taught to accept rejecting Yeshua/Jesus to keep being love bombed by others who reject Him. In Judaism, it was defined in the Messiah, who as Isaiah 52 verse 13 through the 53rd chapter explains that He would be rejected and lay down His life for our sins and offer to make intercession for us. Now He is my forgiver and best friend. When others tell us to reject that they are asking us to take their love instead of His. Mormonism, Modern Judaism, and whatever belief aside from salvation by grace=His amazing grace is a form of love bombing. Even seeking money, fame, self, or a girl friend or wife and leaving God in second place means you intend to worship a mate.
Steven Hassan is amazing and I am so glad he escaped the cult to help others. Even those of us never in a cult, but from a “high control” family. God bless you.
So moving thank you x I was part of a cult in AA in where I had to be happy joyous and free all the time and was shamed if I wasn’t! 20 years later I’m allowing ALL my emotions and learning to be kinder to myself ❤
It is so impressive how honest he is about his past life. Not many people would be so blunt and honest about their past errors. All the more impressive that he dedicated his life's work to fighting against these horrible organizations.
Thank you for your video! I have a truly wonderful friend who had pancreatic cancer. She now is free of cancer thanks to God. She’s been now getting into those crystals, tarot reading, everything you mentioned 😢 I’ve tried telling her that’s not of God but she doesn’t listen. I ask people on your platform to please pray for my dear friend Velma in Texas. Thank you once again and may our Lord Jesus Christ continue to bless you and give you the peace you’ve been searching for all this time young lady (I say young lady because I’m 60yrs old lol). God bless.
I have found maintaining my conscience, always asking questions, always considering new information and applying critical thinking are the most effective methods to defend against "cult like, controlling behaviors". Fyi I had ( past tense, no contact) a Narcissistic "mother" and alcoholic father. I was the scapegoat because of what I saw AND SAID. By four I realized "the idiots were running the asylum". At 19 my mother "disowned me, because I borrowed a dress, from my divorced father's girlfriend. I had a fantastic therapist in my twenties, who after extensive work encouraged me to invite my mother to therapy. When she refused the therapist called her and said "IF you refuse to come in and work on this relationship, it then becomes my job, to teach her to live without you". Months later, when I was ready I sent a letter saying: "You win. You get your way for the rest of our lives. You're no longer my mother. I'm no longer you're daughter. BEST decision of my life! 😊
Wow, I grew up in Flushing at the same time as Steve--same age!--but I never heard of him before, even though I am fascinated by cults, which is why I follow your podcast. We lived just blocks from Queens College. (Another famous alum of the same year is Jerry Seinfeld!) We lost people in our family to the Sri Chinmoy cult, also based on Queens. When I was in college the Moonies were on a big push on campuses in the U.S. Another member of our high school class joined the Moonies. Another joined the Sri Chinmoy cult. We all went to Jamaica High School. Did Steven go there? It was right in the neighborhood he described. My cousin finally left the Sri Chinmoy cult in her 40s. Her mother never left. My family is nonpracticing Jewish, as were all the people above. EDITED TO ADD: Steve must have gone to Jamaica High School. We were Citywide Champs!!
Thank you Steven and John for a very enlightening interview. Steven has my deepest respect for the intense cult journey he was on and then turned lemons into lemonade by doing extensive research into cults and becoming a cult expert who ended up developing the BITE model for identifying cults and their level of toxicity and malignancy. It would be most interesting to see how he rates Mormonism as compared to the Church of Scientology. Mormonism seems less overt but just as dysfunctional and malignant on a more subliminal and insidious level. A most fascinating and educational interview! My hat’s off to both of you, gentlemen! Thanks for helping us to Wake Up and smell the coffee ☕️! As discussed cult seduction can happen to anybody regardless of one’s IQ. And yes, I agree the MAGA Trump political populist movement is definitely a cult that reminds me somewhat of what I have studied about the Third Reich and Hitler’s rise to power. It too was a populist movement. I see many of the very same political dynamics in play. It is uncanny the parallels. Someone like Santayana once said those that forget their past are doomed to repeat it. Words of wisdom! History is an important guidepost for current affairs. ✨☀️✨ ✨☀️✨🌘🌞🌒✨☀️✨
I'm remembering my friend, a male, being invited to dinner, and then being invited to an event in Boonville, Mendocino County, CA, a rural area. I remember him saying they were told to put all their belongings in a pile with everyone else's stuff. This seems to really dislocate an individual from his own identity. I don't recall how this guy managed to not get caught up in the cult over the long run.
Wow. My neighbors say, they're mormon. But they're somewhat fitting your description. But one is an alcoholic and claimed, he used to be catholic. He handed me a sheet of paper when verbally saying, it'll change my life forever. It said what my mom used to tell me which was idol hands were evil.
Steve, we grew up in Queens and went to college at the same time. I remember the Moonies at college, trying to recruit, moving around in small groups and trying to engage us. They seemed kinda suspect to us ( like what were they about any way?) A few kids here and there did get pulled in and we really didn’t understand what happened with them. We didn’t understand cults at all but it unsettled us.
Listening to Steve describe his experiences, as a fellow Jew on Yom Kippur, has added a new level of this to me - as atonement/reflection are at the forefront. Thank you for all you do, John (and crew)!
Thank you. Excellent interview. My family history includes many from the Amish community. I didn't grow up in this but my heart goes out to those entrapped by conformities etc. Yes love overcomes mind control.
I had that same snapping moment Steven talked about, as did many ex-mormons I'm sure. To dedicate your entire being and life to an organization you thought was true, just to find out it's a lie. Very relatable.
Powerful, so necessary we are in a mass psychosis as a Nation as Humanity, lifting one another up is so essential to our survival. Thank you so much. Love never fails.
I left the church in oct of 1989 when I accepted Jesus as my savor was saved and reborn... my husband and my teenaged daughter left soon after I did, both in 1990... they both became reborn, saved. Is there any numbers of how many leave the mormon church per year... any statistics? God bless all people that leave any cult... we were so blessed to have had wonderful discipleship in our Christian church in Moab Utah. So there wasn't really any physiological problems after leaving the cult of mormonisim, we were all just so glad to be free of it and the lies that we praised God everyday for our freedom not only of the cult but of our sins! Anyway...God bless all who are recovering from the uglyness of cults...
Very powerful story! Steve, thank you for reminding us how important it is to keep loving our family members who have been pulled into cults and for not blaming them for being pulled in.
I was born into a cult. I am thankful that I was very young and got out of it early, but it was all that I knew for a long time. The deprogramming is real. I still have days where I have flashbacks…almost like PTSD. Thank you Steve for all you do and continue to do! You’re amazing!
Dr. Hassan I really want to speak with you because of the unique positions and locations I have experienced in my life. I think I may have information that will be very helpful to you and your work, given your background with Moon.
In my opinion, if someone joins the Mormon church after taking the missionary lessons, they join without informed consent. Nothing is taught in the missionary lessons about all the weird doctrines of the church. Those would raise big red flags for a thinking person.
Yes then they spoon feedbyou the other stuff...it was so hard for me to leave because I loved my friends and the peace I felt in the church but I knew it wasn't the Jesus of the bible:(😢
I agree but there is a low threshold at least in America for this type of thing. For example “ignorance of the law is no excuse” is an oft cited phrase. Adults are presumed to know the law. I bet if more people actually read the law instead of relying on lawyers and cpa types to distill it for them that they would never sign up for all the crap that government sells with all the “duties and obligations and strings” which attach. At the end of the day whether informed consent is achieved is a matter of caveat emptor. As an adult especially all the resources are available to make an informed decision on almost any matter these days with the internet. Anything else is just people forsaking their own personal responsibility which I believe is a reason why narcissism is so rampant these days.
Another aspect of singing is it creates that feeling of togetherness and belonging. Learning and performing tonal vibrations along with the message of the lyrics.
Via the mysteries of the UA-cam algorithm (I fell asleep listening to a Warhammer novel) this interview was playing when I woke up this morning, and after a couple of minutes of groggily listening to it I put it back to the beginning and listened to it all. I'm interested, because I was young when I started "studying" (being indoctrinated) into the Jehovah's Witnesses. I never got baptised, but I was fully involved. They, like other groups, look for a person's Achilles heel, or both heels, and use it to draw you in. My own? My intelligence and my mental health issues. They will use those "heels" of yours both positively and negatively. Concerning intelligence they would appeal to your vanity, "Oh you're so clever, we need people like you", and they use your curiosity. Then later if you are expressing doubts they will belittle you with "I don't understand! You're so intelligent, so how can you not see this is true?" Decades later I'm contented to be an agnostic, but my experiences in that group will always stay with me. These groups all use the same techniques to control their members, even though they profess different things.
Adding to my question about Samantha, I like to stress that I really appreciated this interview. Ik can relate to the story of Steve Hassan because in about the same years that he was involved in the Moon cult I was very heavily influenced by the Children of God, a cult that was also active in the Netherlands. It took many years to redress that influence. One thing in this process was paramount, and that was love. Now when I'm older a realize how traumatic such an influence is, and that it can last for a lifetime. So for all three of yours: keep up the good work. Because good it is.
Really found this powerful. So sorry I missed the thrive presentation. Something occurred to me while listening. Sure the LDS church, though it has all of these cult elements, is now generally much less abusive post-Brigham Young than the moonies. That said, in the game of bishop and stake President roulette because all the cult elements are there, it’s easy for an individual ward or stake to get pretty bad if a predator happens to be called as Bishop or Stake President, especially in more isolated areas. I saw a little of this in a small town in Spain as a missionary.
I never heard about the many wives of JS when I was a Mormon for a minute. My dad was an alcoholic and I joined to be sure my kids never started drinking. We left and only one out of five drinks an occasional alcoholic drink.
My sister 9 years my senior and I sold flowers for Moonies curbside in Glendale AZ. We didn't get the connection until years later. Kent Dana who was a newscaster in Phoenix tried to recruit my brother into Mormanisn. I escaped all that because I much younger. My mother was Order of the Eastern Star. 33rd degree Scottish Rite was my uncle and grandfather. My paternal grandfather was Roman Catholic. I was baptized Catholic but raised secular, thank goodness for the free will.
My life has been almost stripped away by another religious cult at my mother’s hand - your story resonates with me, and I understand the tears. I am there as well.
Incredible interview. I exited an abusive marriage and so much of what he said reminded me of being trapped in that abusive situation. The mind control is soul destroying. It is so difficult to get away from.
☘️🌝🌲
So true- my own sister & her ex husband were part of a quasi cult led by the typical dictatorial, arrogant, hypocritical and womanizing narcissistic founder & leader - Big shocker🙄, turns out they embezzled $1mil+ from their gullible, earnest followers *_HOWEVER_* the absolute worst part was the terrible & long term impact that twisted man & his apostate mindset & teachings wrought upon his group’s members…no drama, just facts: to this day, the fallout includes sister’a family splintered and broken…a book could be written😔💔
God loathes such egomaniacal cult leaders & the devastation heaped upon searching, vulnerable individuals.
I’ve been watching Dr. Hassan for years (he helped me see how much thought control there is in fundamentalist evangelicalism) and it was wonderful to hear a deep dive into his own story 💛 What a powerful legacy he has created
Are you kidding? The Mormons aren't evangelists. They are a cult - no religion. Here in Europe they don't even have legally the status of a religion. And they have nothing to do with the Evangelium. Stop spreading false information.
What are a few thought controls from fundamentalist evangelism ?
Love Steve and his story! He's transformed his life, and now is attempting to assist all who has been through this experience! Talk about "paying it forward!" A fantastic individual, and inspiring! Also, just a another revealing aspect of this incredible podcast, notice here is John and Steve, both have their image mirroring each other! There's a brilliance within these two! Of assisting people with their lives, teaching unconditional Love! This will have a ripple effect to perhaps thousands of people! Best, interview yet! ♥️🎻😎
Steven Hassan is an absolute legend! Thank you so much, Steve, for everything you do and for sharing your story. Sam was absolutely the best cohost for this episode! Excellent choice, John! I've read all of Steven's books, but I feel like I learned so much from this episode. I think this just became my favorite episode of Mormon Stories. Please make sure this video is never lost to time or space, because it is going to make a difference to lives for decades to come.
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I agree! I'm a huge M.S. student & listener! I often take notes with books recommended and or make copies of clips, to keep track of information for my own research! Steve is a cult favorite now! Pun intended! LOL! Thank- You, O.S.F., and Sam! 🎻♥️😎
One thing I always thought, back when I was a true believer in the church, was “there are so many people more intelligent and educated than me that believe this so it must be true”. I now realize there are intelligent people who believe all kinds of things and just because a bunch of “smart” people believe a religious or political doctrine doesn’t make it true. I am amazed at the things otherwise intelligent people can believe in. It helps me forgive myself for the things I used to believe in that are pretty silly looking at it from the outside.
It’s also very easy to view your own beliefs as logical and see other people’s beliefs as ridiculous.
I thought the same thing!
This is a good point about being smart and yet being fooled . Jesus says, be careful, even the elect can be deceived! I always think that Satan is smarter than most people's faith. He is the deceiver!
Just because you're smart doesn't mean you are intelligent. I was in the Pentecostal religion out for 30 years however, I'm still affected by what I was taught! It goes back to the brimstone and fire!
@ Marlene What does “true believer in the church” mean? Yeshua never called us to believe in church. Seems you were preoccupied with the happenings of people, rather than ever encountering Yeshua who calls us to Himself.
@@christoffesedao3579 I love Jesus with all My heart, I am wary of churches though. People can be so full on.
It was so refreshing too hear how positive it was to grow up Jewish. Too have had the freedom to explore life and how you felt about it without external pressure to confirm, must have been a true gift.
I have read Steve's book Freedom of Mind and it is the greatest gift to humanity ...... he has shared so much with us, and we will never stop learning from him. His teachings can be applied to all aspects of life, and addictions in which ever form they come in. A great discussion, thank you so much. Watching from New Zealand 💖🙏💖
Talking about his sister Thea made me tear up. To be "safe" for someone is such a beautiful thing.
It’s not an easy position to take, but he made me realise in an instant just how vital that role is.
@@nnacroon7356 ❤️
I’m not new to Steven’s story, nor yours John, but I have learned new lessons today. Thank you all, Samantha included, for the vulnerability and guidance.
I especially appreciated his point that anyone can be manipulated into a cult in the right circumstance.
I usually stay away from cults. But I like that a mormon told me that the holy bible was written by sinners. That gave me thought that a lot of people are ruled by the flesh and it God.
They called the flesh for Bible God, I meant.
@@sarahburnett755
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@@sarahburnett755 jb
@@sarahburnett755 cb
I love how Steven's emotional reactions to certain moments of time illuminate what's really important in life and what has the deepest and truest power: instances of connection, love, valuing another, and the like. These are what can dislodge rigid belief systems.
"Cults are BAD........ unless u join OUR cult"
@@josephinetracy1485 What are you talking about? Nothing in what I said has anything to do with some other cult.
@@Cat_Woods We need to stay away from cults.... such as the Moonies, Jehovah's Witnesses, the Mormons, etc.
This did not disappoint. I am very thankful Steve was able to come out and spend his time to share his story with us. What a valuable way to spend his time here.
This man is incredible to listen to.
In the early 90s, I went on a trip to Korea paid for by the Moonies. They were doing a PR campaign, to show the world how normal they were, and anyone who had a leadership position in their own church, could go on the Moonies dime. It was mostly pastors from Christian churches, but as a Mormon and youth leader, I was excepted to go on scholarship. They took us by bus to their version of the sacred grove, and it was déjà vu learning about Reverend Moon’s experience there as I had heard it so many times about Joseph Smith. Nearly identical.
Haha!!!!!!
@@notnow7973 What does that supposed to mean?? Are you in denial?
*accepted not excepted
@@philmabarak5421 The sentence"What does that supposed to mean?" is incorrect because "supposed" is not the base form of the verb that follows "does".
Instead, "is supposed to" is a set phrase where "is" acts as the auxiliary verb.❤
I find it hard to accept that adults get caught up in nonsense like Mormonism and the moonies. . What a waste of time. Even if you meet someone you like, they are caught up in nonsense too!!!! It’s ridiculous and absurd. But millions of people are deluded. So dumb.
I’m really excited about listening to these interviews! I’ve been a huge fan of Stephen Hassan for several year. I am an ex- Scientologist, and have found his books and talks eye-opening and educational. Plus, he’s an absolutely delightful human being 😎 I have a Mormon sister, and am also a fan and supporter of yours, Dr. Dehlin! It’s going to be such a treat to listen to this! If either of you makes it out to Northern California, I would love to take you out for a meal. ❤
Wow! Steve had me tearing up too.
What a wonderful man, bringing such a powerful message.
That bit about, "you lived it". Being able to find value in even the worst of circumstances is something I live by. Using the lessons on One's own experiences to help others. Sharing empathy. Not telling people what to do but rather helping them to find their own answers. To me, one of the most fulfilling things we can do.
Thank you Steve, for using your life experience to help so many others.
"Cults are BAD........ unless u join OUR cult"
What an amazing interview. So VERY powerful. As a former JW with all my family still in, this is so moving hearing how he decided to do his true life’s work ❤
I was JW 🙃
Coincidentally, JW’s came to my house today . I live in Connecticut and we have JW visits often. I wasn’t here but my husband spoke to them for quite some time. It was extremely hot- 98 degrees and very humid. My husband said they were the nicest, most respectful people he’s met in awhile and he understood how we can be influenced by them. WOW! ! We humans… what a bunch
@@MKConnecticut by far and away most of them are genuinely sincere and good hearted people, thank your husband for being kind to them. Many people slam doors on them and I personally as a child had a gun pointed at me more than once while “in the ministry”. Arguing and mistreatment only add to the already indoctrinated persecution complex. Kindness and sincere questions are how to get through to JWs. Thank you for sharing!
I am a witness. We would never use moonie methods to force or trick people. We study what the bible says. Then people use their free will, become a witness or not.
Another incredible guest and interview. I am Ojibwe/Blackfeet/European and my husband is Jewish (both Ashkenazi and Sephardic) so this resonated with me, personally, more than other podcasts. When Dr. Hassan spoke about the Holocaust making him feel more in touch with his Jewishness, that really cannot be overstated. It is highlighted in the famous quote of Golda Meir told to a new young U.S. Senator, Joe Biden, who was in Israel during the Yom Kippur War of 1973. She said, "We don’t worry, senator. We Israelis have a secret weapon. We have nowhere else to go.” That feeling really is a weapon and a strength for a people who have been outcasts for, as you said it, Dr. Dehlin, "millenium". I see now in my husband, and in other American Jews, the return of that absolute assuredness that there is nowhere else to go, especially with the rise in antisemitism and what appears to be an extreme left-leaning support of Palestine in popular media. Which isn't to say that I don't understand that leaning. Of course, I do. Three generations of homelessness and refugee status, in not just Israel but also in Jordan, Egypt, and Lebanon, creates great despair, hopelessness, and helplessness. As a Native American, I understand those feelings and where that history can take you. BUT, I know you prefer not to discuss politics (what can I say, I'm a political scientist), and really this comment was just another thank you for an excellent broadcast. I wasn't familiar with Dr. Hassan until now.
It would be so powerful for Hassan to dive into the programming of the former president's followers. We've watched a huge cult forming before our eyes that is poised to take over our government and destroy the constitution. Knowledge like Hassan's could make a difference if it were widespread.
It would be interesting to hear what he thinks about Israel now after the October 7 massacre.
Well said❤
All the way from Gaborone, Botswana, Africa..I’m grateful for this interview..an eye opener , recovering from leaving Mormonism ,will definitely get the books🙏Thank you ❤️
“Love is stronger than mind control” Thank you, Steven
I'm an ex member of WMSCOG which Dr Steve has extensively investigated and spoken out against. In the church they make videos about how bad he is :'D Thanks for your work Steve!!
Those kind of call outs almost ALWAYS cause members to seek it out if they've never heard of it. Lmao I had never heard of John Dehlin, or exmormons anywhere but reddit. Thankfully I learned how to google.
Amazing man !
This was an all timer, thank you John for bringing Steven on the show and thank you Steven for sharing your story!
"Cults are BAD........ unless u join OUR cult"
I am SO STOKED about this episode!!! I’m a HUGE fan of Dr. Hassan and his work, and I’m a fan of MSP. So excited for this! 💜💜💜
Thank you for sharing your story Steve! It was shocking at times to hear the parallels. Looking forward to listening to the next one!
I'm so glad this episode was playing when I woke up this morning. Wow Steve, You got Me at the end, I'm crying like a baby. Love is it, it's everything.
Beautifully powerful interview. Thank you for your work Dr Hassan, MS Team and Samantha.
Having read Combating Cult Mind Control, I was excited to find that Dr Hassan would be appearing on Mormon Stories. Great interview!
One of the most amazing interviews I have ever watched - and I have watched a lot of them... Steven Hassan is so perfectly well spoken and the interviewer did a terrific job just letting Dr. Hassan speak. So impressed!
My grandfather was in a cult called Direct Credit Society during and just after the Great Depression. The head guy was Alfred E Lawson who also named part of it Lawsonomy. Member families had many rules to live by including vegetarian foods, and sending your children who lived in cities to live with members who were farmers to learn how to grow their own foods, being loyal to your spouse. When you Dad went to their " university" he saw Lawson eating steak, and a member revealed her teenage daughter was having Lawson's baby although he had a wife.
thank you for this info I am going to dig into it soon. The vegetarian part, not so culty, sending your children off totally culty. Teenage daughter issue, religion in general. The name of the cult is what has me interested
I walk carefully because Hindus Jews, and Muslims have dietary restrictions@@Cocoisagordonsetter
SO many people deconstructing have your questions about Judaism ... I appreciate you asking!!! I really loved that
Can't believe how lucky I was today, I went to purchase Steven's book on Audible and I had credit. Guess what I'll be listening to for the next 13 hours! With a few breaks of course 😁
"Cults are BAD........ unless u join OUR cult"
This was helpful, interesting and powerful. Thank you so much for coming on this podcast. I'm not particularly educated on this area and it's been a pleasure.
Glad it was helpful!
Steven, thank you for being your authentic self in this interview.
Fascinating discussion. I'm so inspired to follow in Steve's footsteps after suffering immeasurable personal loss as a result of being indoctrinated by the Jehovah Witness cult. I too dropped out of university but now desire a psychology degree to ultimately be able to help people be equipped with strong mental health to empower them to exit and heal from cults. Thank you MPS, the insight shared here by Steve relating his experiences are truly precious.❤ and much respect to you all.
I think that would be an awesome way to take your pain and contribute to your and others healing. I hope you have been able to take some steps in that direction.
Good luck to you in your future endeavors.
What an awesome interview. Just recently found your channel and this interview was just great. Thank you all for the work you are doing.
Brilliant podcast! Dr.Hassan’s experience and teaching of the BITE model is priceless. He has helped more people than he may ever know. Sincere gratitude to all @Mormon Stories for their time and talents. 🙏
"Cults are BAD........ unless u join OUR cult"
Wow! This interview was incredible! Steven's story, all the interesting beliefs of the Mooneys, Samantha's commentary and John leading the interview. It was all wonderful! It's incredible as a former Mormon to see all of this cult information revealed on Mormon Stories. It helps me feel like we can learn a wiser way of living. ❤️❤️❤️
Appreciation+ for you Dr. Steven Hassan your strength, bravery and love for others you are such a wonderful inspiration to me and I am sure for so many others. At this moment you are my favorite man on the planet. Thank You for sharing your experience and your dedication for others fulfillment and finding the truth.
I was married to a pathological narcissist for 2 years. So many similarities. I was brainwashed, controlled, lost my identity. Last January, I snapped, realized it was all a lie. After a difficult time of recovery, I'm finally starting to feel healthy.
Same here. Being with a pathological narcissist is the exact same as being in a cult. It was the worst thing I have ever been through, resulting in a nervous breakdown. Best thing that ever happened to me. It have me armor I will use for the rest of my life. I now completely understand how this happens to absolutely anyone.
My husband also has a personality that I have diagnosed him with. This personality developed over time. I got out 2 yrs ago. I got SSDI. Before the disability came I remember my husband saying what he would do with that money. I'm so glad I'm out of the marriage. I live now in a manageable 1 bedroom apartment. I was in the marriage for 30 yrs. I have 3 adult children.
I think it is fascinating how it is possible to extricate oneself from mind control like this.
I did successfully apply this methodology without knowing what I was doing at all and prior to ever being introduced to Steven Hassan.
I think that it is important to share this information to help as many people as possible.
Enjoying Dr. Hassan's life story and delivery of same.
Thank you, thank you. Looking on my experience with JW’s and major depression after being disfellowshipped. 30 years later, still struggle. I relate to the mind control and the need to understand how that happened. Appreciate your education and life focus which helps me trust what you say.
A few months ago I discovered this podcast and I was so sure that I would not ever subscribe bc it's so long and my time is precious. But here I am, already subscribed bc of a previous podcast, and I am glued to this one. I am 65 years old so I have heard a lot about the Moonies in my youth, but never ever as much as this. As an educator, I am even more convinced now that young ppl should learn more about various "religions", cults, and strange love-bombing groups and simply read more. Or more now, simply listen to informative podcasts. This guy is absolutely fascinating. I never had a clue about such tactics, rules, and regulations of this group. I got into researching more about cults bc I was absolutely convinced that I, an intelligent person, could never be drawn into a cult. But apparently, even the most intelligent of us beings can and will continue to be led down rabbit holes. Interesting. Keep them coming Mormon Stories Podcast. You have an avid listener all the way in the islands of The Bahamas!
🙏❤️
1:17:31
😊
I can’t turn this interview off! This is AMAZING. Thank you
So glad!
.amazing .. on the Wake up... everyone is in a love bomb life. Yes, the fact is life is about love, and God is love and the true love bomber. and as a Jew taught to accept rejecting Yeshua/Jesus to keep being love bombed by others who reject Him. In Judaism, it was defined in the Messiah, who as Isaiah 52 verse 13 through the 53rd chapter explains that He would be rejected and lay down His life for our sins and offer to make intercession for us. Now He is my forgiver and best friend. When others tell us to reject that they are asking us to take their love instead of His. Mormonism, Modern Judaism, and whatever belief aside from salvation by grace=His amazing grace is a form of love bombing. Even seeking money, fame, self, or a girl friend or wife and leaving God in second place means you intend to worship a mate.
Steven Hassan is amazing and I am so glad he escaped the cult to help others. Even those of us never in a cult, but from a “high control” family. God bless you.
So moving thank you x
I was part of a cult in AA in where I had to be happy joyous and free all the time and was shamed if I wasn’t!
20 years later I’m allowing ALL my emotions and learning to be kinder to myself ❤
The word cult is grossly overused and most, like you, don’t know what constitutes a cult…
It is so impressive how honest he is about his past life. Not many people would be so blunt and honest about their past errors. All the more impressive that he dedicated his life's work to fighting against these horrible organizations.
I agree. He gives strength to others to share their stories even though it could be embarrassing. ❤
Thank you for your video! I have a truly wonderful friend who had pancreatic cancer. She now is free of cancer thanks to God. She’s been now getting into those crystals, tarot reading, everything you mentioned 😢 I’ve tried telling her that’s not of God but she doesn’t listen.
I ask people on your platform to please pray for my dear friend Velma in Texas. Thank you once again and may our Lord Jesus Christ continue to bless you and give you the peace you’ve been searching for all this time young lady (I say young lady because I’m 60yrs old lol). God bless.
I always have these impressions that Joseph Smith and Rev. Moon are privately laugh at how they've got their followers manipulated.
And L. Ron Hubbard.
I have found maintaining my conscience, always asking questions, always considering new information and applying critical thinking are the most effective methods to defend against "cult like, controlling behaviors".
Fyi I had ( past tense, no contact) a Narcissistic "mother" and alcoholic father. I was the scapegoat because of what I saw AND SAID. By four I realized "the idiots were running the asylum".
At 19 my mother "disowned me, because I borrowed a dress, from my divorced father's girlfriend.
I had a fantastic therapist in my twenties, who after extensive work encouraged me to invite my mother to therapy. When she refused the therapist called her and said "IF you refuse to come in and work on this relationship, it then becomes my job, to teach her to live without you".
Months later, when I was ready I sent a letter saying:
"You win.
You get your way for the rest of our lives.
You're no longer my mother.
I'm no longer you're daughter.
BEST decision of my life!
😊
So very sorry. Families are very strange places. Really. Nearly every family is kind of crazy.
Second listen. Well worth a 3rd. Hoping you have him on the show often!
I could listen to dr Hassan all day.
I can't help but cry with Steven. The Mormon cult has taken so much from me and I just feel so much empathy for this man!
What a great guest! The BITE model is valuable.
Wow, I grew up in Flushing at the same time as Steve--same age!--but I never heard of him before, even though I am fascinated by cults, which is why I follow your podcast. We lived just blocks from Queens College. (Another famous alum of the same year is Jerry Seinfeld!)
We lost people in our family to the Sri Chinmoy cult, also based on Queens. When I was in college the Moonies were on a big push on campuses in the U.S. Another member of our high school class joined the Moonies. Another joined the Sri Chinmoy cult. We all went to Jamaica High School. Did Steven go there? It was right in the neighborhood he described.
My cousin finally left the Sri Chinmoy cult in her 40s. Her mother never left. My family is nonpracticing Jewish, as were all the people above.
EDITED TO ADD: Steve must have gone to Jamaica High School. We were Citywide Champs!!
Wow! Great info! Amazing and uncanny parallels! This has one of my favorite episodes John has produced. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
What a deeply enlightening conversation! Thank you to all for taking the time to make and share these stories.
Mormon Stories continues to outdo itself! ✅💯🙌🏻
Thank you Steven and John for a very enlightening interview.
Steven has my deepest respect for the intense cult journey he was on and then turned lemons into lemonade by doing extensive research into cults and becoming a cult expert who ended up developing the BITE model for identifying cults and their level of toxicity and malignancy. It would be most interesting to see how he rates Mormonism as compared to the Church of Scientology. Mormonism seems less overt but just as dysfunctional and malignant on a more subliminal and insidious level.
A most fascinating and educational interview!
My hat’s off to both of you, gentlemen! Thanks for helping us to Wake Up and smell the coffee ☕️! As discussed cult seduction can happen to anybody regardless of one’s IQ. And yes, I agree the MAGA Trump political populist movement is definitely a cult that reminds me somewhat of what I have studied about the Third Reich and Hitler’s rise to power. It too was a populist movement. I see many of the very same political dynamics in play. It is uncanny the parallels. Someone like Santayana once said those that forget their past are doomed to repeat it. Words of wisdom! History is an important guidepost for current affairs. ✨☀️✨
✨☀️✨🌘🌞🌒✨☀️✨
An amazing man with an amazing story, who is so generous sharing to help others. Humbling.
I'm remembering my friend, a male, being invited to dinner, and then being invited to an event in Boonville, Mendocino County, CA, a rural area. I remember him saying they were told to put all their belongings in a pile with everyone else's stuff. This seems to really dislocate an individual from his own identity. I don't recall how this guy managed to not get caught up in the cult over the long run.
You have a way of getting more out of people that you interview. I know that being long form is one reason, but the questions you ask are excellent.
This is brilliant! What a great approach John!
Wow. My neighbors say, they're mormon. But they're somewhat fitting your description. But one is an alcoholic and claimed, he used to be catholic. He handed me a sheet of paper when verbally saying, it'll change my life forever. It said what my mom used to tell me which was idol hands were evil.
Steve, we grew up in Queens and went to college at the same time. I remember the Moonies at college, trying to recruit, moving around in small groups and trying to engage us. They seemed kinda suspect to us ( like what were they about any way?) A few kids here and there did get pulled in and we really didn’t understand what happened with them. We didn’t understand cults at all but it unsettled us.
I remember the Moonies recruiting in NYC back in the 70's. They were on every block with a blackboard and chalk.
Very strange indeed.
I didn't want this conversation to end.
Listening to Steve describe his experiences, as a fellow Jew on Yom Kippur, has added a new level of this to me - as atonement/reflection are at the forefront.
Thank you for all you do, John (and crew)!
What a raw and touching testimony ❤
This is fantastic! I loved hearing Dr. Hassan. Thank you. It was a beautiful conversation.
Thank you. Excellent interview. My family history includes many from the Amish community. I didn't grow up in this but my heart goes out to those entrapped by conformities etc. Yes love overcomes mind control.
What a brave soul this man is. Not all heroes wear capes. Steven's BITE model is amazing.
This is amazing! Invaluable information from wonderful people
Thank you so much for this interview! Very interesting and educational! Greetings from me in Norway 🇧🇻
I had that same snapping moment Steven talked about, as did many ex-mormons I'm sure. To dedicate your entire being and life to an organization you thought was true, just to find out it's a lie. Very relatable.
Powerful, so necessary we are in a mass psychosis as a Nation as Humanity, lifting one another up is so essential to our survival. Thank you so much. Love never fails.
Mass psychosis. Perfect description of what the world is like.
Excellent interview! Thank you Dr Hassan.
I loved steve on the show, "Cults and Extreme Beliefs," he is amazing.
I left the church in oct of 1989 when I accepted Jesus as my savor was saved and reborn... my husband and my teenaged daughter left soon after I did, both in 1990... they both became reborn, saved.
Is there any numbers of how many leave the mormon church per year... any statistics? God bless all people that leave any cult... we were so blessed to have had wonderful discipleship in our Christian church in Moab Utah. So there wasn't really any physiological problems after leaving the cult of mormonisim, we were all just so glad to be free of it and the lies that we praised God everyday for our freedom not only of the cult but of our sins! Anyway...God bless all who are recovering from the uglyness of cults...
The story about Steven thinking about killing his own father is OMG!!!!! And then his father started to cry 😭 and wanted to know Steven's feelings.
I’m listening to this after the ruby frank, Jody hildebrand, conviction. Now just starting into the chad Daybell trial. Such a great lesson here.
INCREDIBLE!!!! Going to watch the next part now!
Very powerful story! Steve, thank you for reminding us how important it is to keep loving our family members who have been pulled into cults and for not blaming them for being pulled in.
Samantha is a legend. Thank you for bringing your/her insights to this discussion.
I was born into a cult. I am thankful that I was very young and got out of it early, but it was all that I knew for a long time. The deprogramming is real. I still have days where I have flashbacks…almost like PTSD. Thank you Steve for all you do and continue to do! You’re amazing!
Dr. Hassan I really want to speak with you because of the unique positions and locations I have experienced in my life. I think I may have information that will be very helpful to you and your work, given your background with Moon.
This was Amazing to watch and learn 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼thank you 😘🇬🇧great trio 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽xxxxx
In my opinion, if someone joins the Mormon church after taking the missionary lessons, they join without informed consent. Nothing is taught in the missionary lessons about all the weird doctrines of the church. Those would raise big red flags for a thinking person.
I soooo agree. And often people join because of a pretty face. Another parallel.
@@sedonarose7563whether male or female.
Yes then they spoon feedbyou the other stuff...it was so hard for me to leave because I loved my friends and the peace I felt in the church but I knew it wasn't the Jesus of the bible:(😢
I agree but there is a low threshold at least in America for this type of thing.
For example “ignorance of the law is no excuse” is an oft cited phrase. Adults are presumed to know the law. I bet if more people actually read the law instead of relying on lawyers and cpa types to distill it for them that they would never sign up for all the crap that government sells with all the “duties and obligations and strings” which attach. At the end of the day whether informed consent is achieved is a matter of caveat emptor. As an adult especially all the resources are available to make an informed decision on almost any matter these days with the internet. Anything else is just people forsaking their own personal responsibility which I believe is a reason why narcissism is so rampant these days.
Red flags can be ever so big if your glasses are rose tinted
Another aspect of singing is it creates that feeling of togetherness and belonging. Learning and performing tonal vibrations along with the message of the lyrics.
Thank you, again.
Watching from Alaska.
Hassan is a treasure.
3:24 - I cried! 😢 Thanks for sharing this story. So powerful! ❤
You are so welcome!
3:24:32
I love Dr. Hassan…so authentic
Via the mysteries of the UA-cam algorithm (I fell asleep listening to a Warhammer novel) this interview was playing when I woke up this morning, and after a couple of minutes of groggily listening to it I put it back to the beginning and listened to it all. I'm interested, because I was young when I started "studying" (being indoctrinated) into the Jehovah's Witnesses. I never got baptised, but I was fully involved. They, like other groups, look for a person's Achilles heel, or both heels, and use it to draw you in. My own? My intelligence and my mental health issues. They will use those "heels" of yours both positively and negatively. Concerning intelligence they would appeal to your vanity, "Oh you're so clever, we need people like you", and they use your curiosity. Then later if you are expressing doubts they will belittle you with "I don't understand! You're so intelligent, so how can you not see this is true?" Decades later I'm contented to be an agnostic, but my experiences in that group will always stay with me. These groups all use the same techniques to control their members, even though they profess different things.
Hope you been feeling’ better Dr Hassan. Thank you for being a trooper! Respect!
Just learned of Dr. Steven Hassan, so am viewing as many UA-cam videos as possible! Thank you!
The way he describes the snap moment/shelf breaking moment is just so poignant. Perfectly said.
Adding to my question about Samantha, I like to stress that I really appreciated this interview. Ik can relate to the story of Steve Hassan because in about the same years that he was involved in the Moon cult I was very heavily influenced by the Children of God, a cult that was also active in the Netherlands. It took many years to redress that influence. One thing in this process was paramount, and that was love. Now when I'm older a realize how traumatic such an influence is, and that it can last for a lifetime. So for all three of yours: keep up the good work. Because good it is.
Really found this powerful. So sorry I missed the thrive presentation.
Something occurred to me while listening. Sure the LDS church, though it has all of these cult elements, is now generally much less abusive post-Brigham Young than the moonies. That said, in the game of bishop and stake President roulette because all the cult elements are there, it’s easy for an individual ward or stake to get pretty bad if a predator happens to be called as Bishop or Stake President, especially in more isolated areas. I saw a little of this in a small town in Spain as a missionary.
I never heard about the many wives of JS when I was a Mormon for a minute. My dad was an alcoholic and I joined to be sure my kids never started drinking. We left and only one out of five drinks an occasional alcoholic drink.
Steven, we’re so grateful for your experience and the time you devote to helping others ❤️
My sister 9 years my senior and I sold flowers for Moonies curbside in Glendale AZ. We didn't get the connection until years later. Kent Dana who was a newscaster in Phoenix tried to recruit my brother into Mormanisn. I escaped all that because I much younger. My mother was Order of the Eastern Star. 33rd degree Scottish Rite was my uncle and grandfather. My paternal grandfather was Roman Catholic. I was baptized Catholic but raised secular, thank goodness for the free will.