This father deserves all the thanks and recognition in the world for being a "Sea Org" member and STILL choosing his family first, and doing everything he could to keep them together and get himself and his two daughters out of Scientology.
Bean she Hind sight is 20/20, and as soon as he came over to the US and realized that the CO$ was lying to him about everything, the job, the apartment, the schools for his kids, etc. he immediately separated from his wife, got a great job, an apartment, and started working on getting his kids out of that horrible, abusive cult. He immediately bought Astra her own car so she could keep seeing him secretly every week, and he actually fought the CO$ and his ex-wife, who is still a devout Scientologist to this day, and he got Astra out. Furthermore, Astra's daughter Kate is only here because of Lawrence. He made sure she got all the medical care she needed, bought everything the baby would need, and protected her from the CO$ and her mother, who were urging her to have an abortion and come back to the Sea Org. Then he and Astra collectively worked and worked to get Zoe out, and succeeded. These two women are here today, along with their children, because of Lawrence Woodcraft and Lawrence Woodcraft only. We all make mistakes, we all turn a blind-eye to things we don't think are possible, that we think just cannot be true. This CO$ situation is no different than the Catholic parents of a child who has been being abused/molested by their own priest, a priest that they've known for years, that they've had to their home many times, eaten meals with, and allowed to be alone with their young children. This is their priest, the one person in the world that they trust more than anyone else. The thought that he could hurt their child in any way doesn't exist, it never enters their minds, even when they hear rumors or their child seems like something is very wrong. The guilt that parents in these situations feel in the aftermath must be overwhelming and debilitating. They certainly don't need to be made to feel worse, especially not good, caring, loving people like Lawrence Woodcraft, who not only woke up and got himself out of the Cult of Scientology, but who actually battled the CO$ and it's billions of dollars along with his ex-wife, and who got both of his teenage daughters out, got them both into school, then into college, raised them and his grandchildren, and who has been speaking out against the CO$ and doing everything he can possibly do to prevent others from being drawn into the money-grab manipulation of this abusive, Nazi-like cult. If we follow your recommendation of giving these people "A Good Slap", these people who have left the CO$, then stood up to the CO$ and all of the family members and friends that remain in the CO$ in order to get their children out too, so they can live their own free lives, then what's the point of anyone getting out of the CO$ to begin with? If we follow your methodology it means that once anyone makes the horrible mistake of joining the CO$, for whatever reason they joined, that they can never, ever be anything but a gullible person who fell for the Cult of Scientology and it's manipulations and brought their children in with them. That's it, that's all they will ever be and we should never ever forgive them, let alone actually praise them like I did, even though they are responsible for quite literally saving the lives of both their children and grandchildren, and in the case of Lawrence Woodcraft, saved the lives of many, many people who have listened to his story.
@@KimPhilby203 no... he was dragged in by his wife.. and was obviously brain washed too . the important thing is he made it out and fully supports his daughters
he is a complete gullible pushover. he shouldn't have sold his home and left the uk without a proper contract. what kind of a businessman would do that? and then he accepts the offer of living there and working without pay. then he gets them green cards...he is solely responsible for taking them there and arranging them to stay. if he had not gotten them visas they would have had to be returned to the uk. he had every opportunity to make better decisions. so no he doesn't deserve any thanks for being an idiot.
@@gina1285 Have you been in his situation? I think your judgement is wrong, and very much misplaced. Why not judge the so-called church, instead of this man that fighted it.
Just be glad that this organization is dwindling. They get such an incredible amount of bad press these days that I imagine it's very rare for them to recruit any new members. There's an ex-Scientologist who has a UA-cam channel that ran the numbers on how many organizations they have and he tried to calculate how many members they are likely to currently have, and his conservative estimate was somewhere around 35,000 people tops. They claim there are millions but I'd be surprised if there's even that many left.
Garnet Curry it’s also called being clinical, to be able to get through the interview. It’s done subconsciously. I was like this with my friend when my mom was dying. Her mom died before mine so she noticed how clinical my voice was talking about her imminent death. It’s to protect ourselves. I didn’t even notice until my friend pointed it out.
I happened apon this accidentally. It began playing through my hands free speaker in my car and thought to my self "I will turn that off as soon as I can stop the car" Only by the time I could stop I was so hooked to what Astra was saying that I listened to the whole interview and carried on listening to her sister and Father in their interviews. This was the beginning of an ex Scientologist Tasunami binge fest for me. Striking how all those who have left this "Church" all use the very same terminology and describe/report identical experiences.
They are so lucky to have such a great dad, who clearly prioritizes their well-being above all else. Otherwise those girls would be in a world of hurt.
Astra is one very bright lady, I'm very sad that she was cheated out of a childhood. The control the ORG has over people is just incredible. The family has had a tough time, I'm happy the dad and two of the kids are free
This sounds hidiously like PAYING to br a prisoner in a concentration camp where confusion, insanity and denial are desired traits. I always though Scientology was just weird. I was wrong. It's destructive to the family, to individuals, to sanity, to decency and is insanely evil.
+LeAnn Cortez You should join Scientology, because how could u possibly know anything if you haven't joined them. Email me or call me up for Scientologists to come by your house and explain things to you.
What an amazing young lady. Isn't it wonderful when speaking the truth how it flows freely from your mouth and needs not be rehearsed. This entire video is so honest and refreshing it would be amazing for someone within Scientology to listen to this and not question their position. I am so happy for her that she found freedom!
This full interview is an eye opener to what happens in the Sea Org with children. As a public scientologist, now an ex, I didn't know what these poor individuals go through and have gone through. Very touching. I was familiar with some staff happenings in public Orgs, but being a SO member is a horrendous experience. Criminal, unethical, unacceptable and outrageous abuse. This should not happen to children and laws should be made to protect them. Thank you all for having the strength to expose this. Seeing you and the truth on video is most precious and helpful to others. Nice Epilogue! -Love from Dee Findlay
@Iris E Public people are those that work regularjobs, live home and pay most of their money to scientology. Sea org is the place people sign a billion year contract. They live in quaters and work for the cult for training when they have free time, while working for pennies.
@Iris E Sometimes. They make about $50 or less a week . Depends how hard they work. They have a room shared with others, meals and maybe two uniforms. Plus work about 12 hours a day which includes 2 hours training, if they have done good enough job.
Johnny I just searched the topic and hit “live” and there are really creepy ads on live for Scientology making it look magical. It’s sad that pple are going to see it and believe it!
I was raised in one of the other top 10 cults in America and this explains why I didn't know much about Scientology, until now. Fresh out of my respective cult after 20 yrs., then in my 30's I was introduced to the Dianietics book, which of course I saw as nonsense. All the recent hoopla over the "Going Clear" movie and book peaked my interest about what the celebs I've admired are really into. Now I am totally disgusted with them. Scientology is clear designed to rob money from the rich and hard labor from the poor. R. L. Hubbard's books should be banned and no one should ever again have financial gain from their use.
+Mia T Let me guess: Either Jehovah's Witnesses, or LDS? I lean towards JW's, because they are the least educated it seems. I know, I was raised in it.
Catholics aren't in a cult just because you don't like us @maverickbuckley. We're free to do what we please and come and go without any brain washing, cutting of ties, or secrecy.
From these interviews you would think Stacy Brooks was an outsider to scientology. She was a senior executive for the cult for 20 years and in the sea org. It amazes me how she is often surprised by Astra's testimony.
This whole interview was so interesting, but the best part was the last few minutes when she talked about regrets and being able to live with her mother, brother, and grandmother's CHOICE not to speak to her. That takes all the power away from them. It hurt, but she didn't let that stop her. Scientology would lose almost everybody if they were willing to be disowned. It is very sad to have to make that choice, but as she said, she is happy.
I'm 45 minutes into this and am baffled that someone here commented that she speaks like a robot. What planet are you from? She speaks exceptionally well with perfect grammar.
I found this vlog by mistake. Astra describes her life extremely well and I learned more things since watching SPTV since it’s inception. Interesting that Astra raises her voice to over-speak everyone, probably learned in the COH. Excellent vlog!
israel de-vries And decides to call himself a "Messiah" in order to do nothing else than make a fortune for himself and gain total control over people's lives. And not just a science-fiction writer, a paranoid schizophrenic science-fiction writer.
El Ron Hubbard was a total complete psychopath and should have been permanently put in a padded cell, with a straight jacket, and kept on Thorazine for life.
This family is amazing and the Trust did the most amazing, wonderful work and my heart hurts for the way it ended but I’m so grateful for this video evidence of your fantastic work ♥️
My FAVORITE thing about this interview is how powerful Astra is. She raises her voice when the reporter interrupts her! She will FINISH her answer and continue the conversation like an adult. She should absolutely should make a career from her horrible experiences and share to the world the horrors and prevent more young people.
Holy shit I just realized this is from 2001. I’m going to google her and see what great things she’s done since then. And the obv letters the church has written about her 🙄 “bold face lies blah blah blah
I hope she got help with the mental side of this abuse. She is doing to the people in the room as she was being done to while inside that living hell. She gets louder and louder as well as interrupting and correcting those around her. It is so sad that anyone would treat such a brilliant and capable person this way, actually anyone for that matter. It would be great to hear from her and her family to let us know how they are doing now.
I would not be sure they are out given they made my name a LLC and stole my identity and are impersonating me and trafficking people and rewarding people for hacking me and stole my medical and counseling records and Veterans Administration records and stole my inheritance and ancestry records and phones and computers and deleted my dissertation records.
I agree Jackie Jones that Scientology's claim IS RIDICULOUS, however I think that perhaps a good place for them to try and PROVE what they claim would be in Germany or better yet- Lybia. Let's see if Scientology is able to "save " just one country in Chaos, before they are entrusted with an entire planet.
You'll pay us, and in return, we'll hold you hostage and you can do manual labor for 16 hours a day. We'll keep you away from your family, and we'll have access to every corner of your brain. If you screw up (don't worry, we'll decide if you've screwed up - you don't have to worry about that) we'll throw you in our special Scientology prison. For how long? We'll just let you know when it's time to get out. You won't have to worry about those kinds of details. And you'll never have to worry about losing your job. We'll provide you with a solid job for your whole life. You'll do rewarding work on behalf of your fellow parishioners, like cleaning bathroom floors or scraping barnacles off of our luxurious cruise ship. And you'll get paid a fair wage! People in Ethiopia and Bangladesh will be just amazed at how much we pay you to perform simple yet rewarding tasks. Unexpected pregnancy? Don't worry, we'll get you an abortion. Planned pregnancy? Don't worry, we'll get you an abortion. Wait - you WANT to have a family? We'll schedule an appointment to talk to your supervisor about it. If we decide it's a good idea, you get to have a baby! We also provide free childcare, so you won't get distracted by your baby. But don't worry, you'll be reunited with your baby when it's in first grade! It's AWESOME!!
+Dave Thompson i think kids need to be taught how cults work and how to protect themself from their mind control games. Something like what Darren Brown does.
Now I understand why Nicol Kidman divorced Tom and left their adopted daughters with him, she had no other choice, I also see why Scientology is frowned down herre in Australia.
Yet Katie Holmes still seems brainwashed. She has no personality anymore. Her career has never recovered after her antics with Tom. Sad. She may have money and beauty, but I would never want to be her. She must be haunted by all she threw away by aligning herself with Tom Cruise and scientology.
Jen Holmes I refuse to watch them on tv or film. Tom Cruise is clearly out of his mind and very close to David Miscavidge 😡 the way Tom Cruise talked about Brooke Shields and her post natal depression was disgusting. Trouble is this cult is worth billions and owns billions worth in property. They find out people's secrets and then they have a hold on them .
Such courageous and well grounded young ladies . What a shame they had to endure such things .just amazing they have come out the other side with such poise and strength
It sounds like pretty substantial crimes are being committed here. Seems like there should be a case made from all these videos, and CoS should be raided and closed as a criminal organization.
Wow! Unbelievable horror! How do these people get away with so much cruelty and abuse? Our federal, state and city governments are turning a blind eye to so much suffering.
This young lady is articulate, healthy-looking, and above all, her euphonious speech could attest to being a fine woman with strong moral values, character and integrity. This is proof that some people are just born with certain innate admirable qualities. I am sorry she went through such traumatic experiences. The goodness inside the soul probably led her to find the true path to freedom, light and enlightenment.
Why would you not believe them by default? There's tons of videos like this from people who used to be in Scientology. Even the ones who weren't in Sea Org talk about what a con job it is, then they say to talk to the Sea Org folks for the real horror stories.
The good thing is they got out when they were young! They have each other and I’m sure they have thrived as you can tell Astra and Zoe are smart and strong and free to make choices for themselves!!
Why are not the proper authorities now seeing this, not going into these Scientology facilities and raiding these buildings for living conditions and child labor laws being broken? These poor girls and their father!!! ARGH!
These poor people are being lied to constantly ...so abusive...Hope and pray God will shed the brightest light on this head guy and these people will be freed and paid back all the money that was stolen from them...and he is locked away....
It's remarkable for these girls to have such different point of views and levels of empathy from their mothers. I mean, they were indoctrinated by the cult of scientology since they were very young. They're very lucky to have a father that was intelligent and enough guts to questioned the cult teachings. It's obviously they got that NOT from the mother. Glad to hear they're doing well now.
Why can't you leave? I thought that was kidnappings, this just keeps getting worse. I wish everyone could quit that wackass cult. I feel so bad hearing the torture these people edure.
The abortion part, with the "would be grandmother" and her attitude about it teared me up instantly. This whole cult organization is horrible. I'm so glad they got out. I am a Christian and I am never made to never feel guilty if I miss church. We all sin, we just have to learn from our mistakes. We can all do good for the Earth without even being part of an organization, including Church. But, the Bible says we should fellowship with other Christ-minded people, so Churches are set up. It could be an outdoor arena, tent, or whatever. Having a personal relationship with Jesus is far better than any so called superior cursing at you daily and demanding impossible chores to be completed. Our Heavenly Father NEVER ask that of us. These poor brainwashed people are being punished for the most ridiculous things! I'm so happy these girls got out and bravely made this film for the world to see what really goes on! God gave everyone free will and this place eliminates that! Jesus, please help us to be the light of the world and tell everyone we can about You. Amen.
This vid is obviously a few years old, does anyone know how the girls & their father are doing ? Wonder if their mum is still in the church or has rejoined the family ?
The mom and brother are still in the SeaOrg. It's super destructive to have a policy of disconnection, but that's a big part of the tao of the "church."
Powerful interview. It is a shame that the Lisa McPherson Foundation no longer exists because Scientology kept suing the group and the primary financial backer had enough. Astra's website, Ex Scientology Kids, hasn't been active since 2015. The website shared with her father for their architectural firm hasn't been active since 2017. I suspect Scientology paid her and her father a lot of money to remain quiet. In return, they are probably allowed to talk to family and friends still in Scientology. It has previously been done with Marty Rathbun and others.
@@melaniekaweck3433 Since I posted my comment, I believe it was on one of Aaron Smith-Levin's videos that it was implied the Woodcraft family took a huge buyout from Scientology to shut up and the cult would no longer fair game them.
So these kids don't learn anything useful. They don't have a traditional school or college. They have to read books on a science fiction novel. When they get a Scientology degree, can they transfer those credits over to other universities?
As she explained, nobody ever graduates. It's clearly not a legitimate schooling and as was also stated after their form of "primary" they don't continue "education" even before the age of 18 for those who join the org. So logically speaking, why would you ask that? 🤦🏻 The answer is no. Obviously credits can't transfer to other colleges when they don't even finish primary. "Credits" in the college education sense are not even accrued whether legitimate or not therefore can't be transferred.
This is so sick! Djeez, the responsibility she had to carry as a 14-15 year old... I'm from the Netherlands and here you have to be 14 years old, before you're allowed to stock shelves at a supermarket.....
Emperor's new clothes!!!! Scientology is not fine. The schooling, the work conditions, the treatment of children, costs, relationship demands, mind control living conditions and diet, treatment of new scientologist are not OK.
I cannot believe that the American authorities allow this to go on - it is ludicrous. I cannot believe they can treat children like this in the 21st century. Are Scientology paying the authorities ? Is that why this illegal stuff is allowed to happen?!? Utter madness
The americans call it “freedom”. The fact its an extreme liberal system allows for this. And Im right wing lol… but this is way to much. Public entitles should exist and government shoulf intervene. But the american way is live and let live.
What century are we in again? How is this sort of abomination (Scientology) allowed in the 21st century??.............what on earth is the Gov doing? Or not, as the case may be. And as bad and depraved as these stories are, I get the feeling that they don't even scratch the surface. You two bright, beautiful, intelligent girls are my heroines.
This father deserves all the thanks and recognition in the world for being a "Sea Org" member and STILL choosing his family first, and doing everything he could to keep them together and get himself and his two daughters out of Scientology.
Ellen Dunsmore He deserves a good hard slap for getting them into this cult in the first place
Bean she Hind sight is 20/20, and as soon as he came over to the US and realized that the CO$ was lying to him about everything, the job, the apartment, the schools for his kids, etc. he immediately separated from his wife, got a great job, an apartment, and started working on getting his kids out of that horrible, abusive cult. He immediately bought Astra her own car so she could keep seeing him secretly every week, and he actually fought the CO$ and his ex-wife, who is still a devout Scientologist to this day, and he got Astra out.
Furthermore, Astra's daughter Kate is only here because of Lawrence. He made sure she got all the medical care she needed, bought everything the baby would need, and protected her from the CO$ and her mother, who were urging her to have an abortion and come back to the Sea Org. Then he and Astra collectively worked and worked to get Zoe out, and succeeded. These two women are here today, along with their children, because of Lawrence Woodcraft and Lawrence Woodcraft only.
We all make mistakes, we all turn a blind-eye to things we don't think are possible, that we think just cannot be true. This CO$ situation is no different than the Catholic parents of a child who has been being abused/molested by their own priest, a priest that they've known for years, that they've had to their home many times, eaten meals with, and allowed to be alone with their young children. This is their priest, the one person in the world that they trust more than anyone else. The thought that he could hurt their child in any way doesn't exist, it never enters their minds, even when they hear rumors or their child seems like something is very wrong.
The guilt that parents in these situations feel in the aftermath must be overwhelming and debilitating. They certainly don't need to be made to feel worse, especially not good, caring, loving people like Lawrence Woodcraft, who not only woke up and got himself out of the Cult of Scientology, but who actually battled the CO$ and it's billions of dollars along with his ex-wife, and who got both of his teenage daughters out, got them both into school, then into college, raised them and his grandchildren, and who has been speaking out against the CO$ and doing everything he can possibly do to prevent others from being drawn into the money-grab manipulation of this abusive, Nazi-like cult.
If we follow your recommendation of giving these people "A Good Slap", these people who have left the CO$, then stood up to the CO$ and all of the family members and friends that remain in the CO$ in order to get their children out too, so they can live their own free lives, then what's the point of anyone getting out of the CO$ to begin with? If we follow your methodology it means that once anyone makes the horrible mistake of joining the CO$, for whatever reason they joined, that they can never, ever be anything but a gullible person who fell for the Cult of Scientology and it's manipulations and brought their children in with them. That's it, that's all they will ever be and we should never ever forgive them, let alone actually praise them like I did, even though they are responsible for quite literally saving the lives of both their children and grandchildren, and in the case of Lawrence Woodcraft, saved the lives of many, many people who have listened to his story.
@@KimPhilby203 no... he was dragged in by his wife.. and was obviously brain washed too . the important thing is he made it out and fully supports his daughters
he is a complete gullible pushover. he shouldn't have sold his home and left the uk without a proper contract. what kind of a businessman would do that? and then he accepts the offer of living there and working without pay. then he gets them green cards...he is solely responsible for taking them there and arranging them to stay. if he had not gotten them visas they would have had to be returned to the uk. he had every opportunity to make better decisions. so no he doesn't deserve any thanks for being an idiot.
@@gina1285 Have you been in his situation? I think your judgement is wrong, and very much misplaced. Why not judge the so-called church, instead of this man that fighted it.
Thank God these girls had a sane and loving father.
My heart broke into a million pieces while listening... get the children out NOW!
Thank you for your courage Astra x
Astra is an astonishingly mature and courageous woman.
i-Betty I
What is so sad about this is that even as we watch this, it is still going on with children having to deal with these same issues.
Yes! The abuse of children runs very deep in TCoS. Its a breeding ground and playground for pedophiles. My gosh, they need to be raised!
Just be glad that this organization is dwindling. They get such an incredible amount of bad press these days that I imagine it's very rare for them to recruit any new members. There's an ex-Scientologist who has a UA-cam channel that ran the numbers on how many organizations they have and he tried to calculate how many members they are likely to currently have, and his conservative estimate was somewhere around 35,000 people tops. They claim there are millions but I'd be surprised if there's even that many left.
I think these young women are incredible! To the person that said Astra spoke like a robot, that's called poise, buddy.
Garnet Curry it’s also called being clinical, to be able to get through the interview. It’s done subconsciously. I was like this with my friend when my mom was dying. Her mom died before mine so she noticed how clinical my voice was talking about her imminent death. It’s to protect ourselves. I didn’t even notice until my friend pointed it out.
What a nightmare.
She doesnt speak lile a robot! She speaks beautiful and classy .
@@teresahowick5197 I'm very sorry for your loss
Who would say that? She talks completely normally.
I happened apon this accidentally. It began playing through my hands free speaker in my car and thought to my self "I will turn that off as soon as I can stop the car" Only by the time I could stop I was so hooked to what Astra was saying that I listened to the whole interview and carried on listening to her sister and Father in their interviews. This was the beginning of an ex Scientologist Tasunami binge fest for me. Striking how all those who have left this "Church" all use the very same terminology and describe/report identical experiences.
I am amazed at how wonderful these two girls had turned out despite their lack of proper education and childhood. xxoo
They are so lucky to have such a great dad, who clearly prioritizes their well-being above all else. Otherwise those girls would be in a world of hurt.
Astra is one very bright lady, I'm very sad that she was cheated out of a childhood. The control the ORG has over people is just incredible. The family has had a tough time, I'm happy the dad and two of the kids are free
This sounds hidiously like PAYING to br a prisoner in a concentration camp where confusion, insanity and denial are desired traits. I always though Scientology was just weird. I was wrong. It's destructive to the family, to individuals, to sanity, to decency and is insanely evil.
Ikr!! Why would anyone payyyy to be tortured!!!
+LeAnn Cortez JW's have a very similar way of cutting of their followers from their friends and family too. It's a classic sign of a cult.
+Angel Face The prison of Belief.
+LeAnn Cortez very well said, i think you are right
+LeAnn Cortez You should join Scientology, because how could u possibly know anything if you haven't joined them. Email me or call me up for Scientologists to come by your house and explain things to you.
What an amazing young lady. Isn't it wonderful when speaking the truth how it flows freely from your mouth and needs not be rehearsed. This entire video is so honest and refreshing it would be amazing for someone within Scientology to listen to this and not question their position. I am so happy for her that she found freedom!
Chuck Eelhart p
This full interview is an eye opener to what happens in the Sea Org with children. As a public scientologist, now an ex, I didn't know what these poor individuals go through and have gone through. Very touching. I was familiar with some staff happenings in public Orgs, but being a SO member is a horrendous experience. Criminal, unethical, unacceptable and outrageous abuse. This should not happen to children and laws should be made to protect them. Thank you all for having the strength to expose this. Seeing you and the truth on video is most precious and helpful to others. Nice Epilogue! -Love from Dee Findlay
I am so sorry for what you've been through, Dee. SO sorry. You have a lot of courage, and I admire you so much. I hope you are doing well.
@@joshfierro5695 more like DEEZ NUTS
@Iris E Public people are those that work regularjobs, live home and pay most of their money to scientology. Sea org is the place people sign a billion year contract. They live in quaters and work for the cult for training when they have free time, while working for pennies.
@Iris E Sometimes. They make about $50 or less a week . Depends how hard they work. They have a room shared with others, meals and maybe two uniforms. Plus work about 12 hours a day which includes 2 hours training, if they have done good enough job.
@Iris E No, don't really. I'm really not interested to discuss this subject at this time, but thanks. God bless America! Watch CSPAN this week!
Scamtology=This whole subject is horrific! Thanks to these videos for hopefully putting off new potential victims!
Johnny I just searched the topic and hit “live” and there are really creepy ads on live for Scientology making it look magical. It’s sad that pple are going to see it and believe it!
I was raised in one of the other top 10 cults in America and this explains why I didn't know much about Scientology, until now. Fresh out of my respective cult after 20 yrs., then in my 30's I was introduced to the Dianietics book, which of course I saw as nonsense. All the recent hoopla over the "Going Clear" movie and book peaked my interest about what the celebs I've admired are really into. Now I am totally disgusted with them. Scientology is clear designed to rob money from the rich and hard labor from the poor. R. L. Hubbard's books should be banned and no one should ever again have financial gain from their use.
What cult were you raised in?
+Mia T Let me guess: Either Jehovah's Witnesses, or LDS? I lean towards JW's, because they are the least educated it seems. I know, I was raised in it.
Catholics aren't in a cult just because you don't like us @maverickbuckley. We're free to do what we please and come and go without any brain washing, cutting of ties, or secrecy.
She is nessed up,
@@realMaverickBuckley STOP.. you sound like am idiot
From these interviews you would think Stacy Brooks was an outsider to scientology. She was a senior executive for the cult for 20 years and in the sea org. It amazes me how she is often surprised by Astra's testimony.
This whole interview was so interesting, but the best part was the last few minutes when she talked about regrets and being able to live with her mother, brother, and grandmother's CHOICE not to speak to her. That takes all the power away from them. It hurt, but she didn't let that stop her. Scientology would lose almost everybody if they were willing to be disowned. It is very sad to have to make that choice, but as she said, she is happy.
@@EricVornoff I don't kno. I'm sure there are other documentaries that can answer that.
@@cindys2995answer what?
I'm 45 minutes into this and am baffled that someone here commented that she speaks like a robot. What planet are you from? She speaks exceptionally well with perfect grammar.
I was raised catholic, and even though I don't practice it anymore, my family still loves me.
Amazing Story... I was just riveted by every word and experience that Astra went through! I know it's 14 years old.. however still an amazing story.
its 8h am and i spent all night watching the 3 intervews and im glad i did
What a courageous young woman. An inspiration and testament to the need for government officials to reexamine this "religion".
I found this vlog by mistake. Astra describes her life extremely well and I learned more things since watching SPTV since it’s inception.
Interesting that Astra raises her voice to over-speak everyone, probably learned in the COH. Excellent vlog!
Well, this is what you get when a science fiction writer messes around with psychology.
israel de-vries And decides to call himself a "Messiah" in order to do nothing else than make a fortune for himself and gain total control over people's lives. And not just a science-fiction writer, a paranoid schizophrenic science-fiction writer.
@Kooky katt except psychology is a respected field that uses scientific methods and has ethical standards. You sound like a nutbar.
Psychology was started by 2 atheist Jung & Freud. Also check out Clement Freud who was very close by when McCann disappeared
@Kooky katt right on man
this is what you get with any religion.
Stacy Brooks is a really great interviewer. I don't know if this is her profession, but she's really good.
No she isn't but sure does a great job!
I agree. She lets her subjects speak, and she asks great questions that really show how closely she's listening.
bumcheek7 isn't she involved / helping in the Lisa McPherson trust ? The poor girl who died suspiciously
I can't imagine being their dad sitting across from them and just hearing all the stories the girls are telling. It would break me.
El Ron Hubbard was a total complete psychopath and should have been permanently put in a padded cell, with a straight jacket, and kept on Thorazine for life.
so glad they got out , sad that her mother remains under the cloud and control of this cult.
I really can't believe that this is even possible in some countries.
when everyone has freedom, this is possible
Their dad is awesome just watched his interview he did so much to get those girls away from that awful cult
Yep. Wonder what ever happened to the mom brother and grandma. The mom is the one to blame for their trauma
This family is amazing and the Trust did the most amazing, wonderful work and my heart hurts for the way it ended but I’m so grateful for this video evidence of your fantastic work ♥️
someone should do a campaign to revoke there tax free status
It was revoked but they somehow got it back! Ridiculous especially when they charge ppl all this money to learn their so called religion
@@Starae336 they got it back by relentlessly harassing the irs & its employees for over 10 years.
If I were teaching middle school, high school, or college, I would make such documentaries a mandatory part of the curriculum.
Fascinating interviews...I watched them all, on this family...So glad they got out....love to see an update on them...
Astra sounds incredibly mature but I wonder about the lasting psychological damage that happens to these people. 😞
My FAVORITE thing about this interview is how powerful Astra is. She raises her voice when the reporter interrupts her! She will FINISH her answer and continue the conversation like an adult. She should absolutely should make a career from her horrible experiences and share to the world the horrors and prevent more young people.
Holy shit I just realized this is from 2001. I’m going to google her and see what great things she’s done since then. And the obv letters the church has written about her 🙄 “bold face lies blah blah blah
@@GroundedSolidarity I think she might be working with her father in architecture
Jk she told us that at the end 🤣 it does appear she finished college and became an architect tho
I hope she got help with the mental side of this abuse. She is doing to the people in the room as she was being done to while inside that living hell. She gets louder and louder as well as interrupting and correcting those around her. It is so sad that anyone would treat such a brilliant and capable person this way, actually anyone for that matter. It would be great to hear from her and her family to let us know how they are doing now.
I like how the interviewer just lets her talk and isnt about all those shocking stories journalists are looking for...
The government must be on their payroll, they would be shut down otherwise. Child labor laws, all labor laws.
These girls r beautiful young ladies with good hearts IN SPITE OF ALL THE HORRIFIC ABUSE!!!!!!!!!! Thank GOD. They got OUT!!!!!!!!!!
The governments works with them. They wint shut them down. Its one of the biggest mind control projects.. Among many.
I would not be sure they are out given they made my name a LLC and stole my identity and are impersonating me and trafficking people and rewarding people for hacking me and stole my medical and counseling records and Veterans Administration records and stole my inheritance and ancestry records and phones and computers and deleted my dissertation records.
I could listen to her voice all day!!!!
How exactly is this organization saving the planet?
Prepostreous!!!!....You don't ask questions!!!! Just drink the Koolade and everything will be okay.
That is the most ridiculous claim, isn't it? THAT, and "ETHICS" -- for the most unethical grifting abusive organization run by a psychopath.
I agree Jackie Jones that Scientology's claim IS RIDICULOUS, however I think that perhaps a good place for them to try and PROVE what they claim would be in Germany or better yet- Lybia.
Let's see if Scientology is able to "save " just one country in Chaos, before they are entrusted with an entire planet.
You are a SUPPRESSIVE PERSON and Scientology is after you!
Oh that does it, Galactic Emperor Xenu has read what you just said. You're DONE.
Really fascinating stuff. I hope more people see this and realise how dangerous Scientology is.
Thank you for posting this ❤
These girls have got to resent their parents on some level for this...
In Malaysia, we have something similar too. You can't not resent your parents. But you get over it. Astra doesn't seem to resent her mom so much now
Id like to think their kids consider their parents victims
people should be taken to task about this poor girl not getting any schooling
You'll pay us, and in return, we'll hold you hostage and you can do manual labor for 16 hours a day. We'll keep you away from your family, and we'll have access to every corner of your brain. If you screw up (don't worry, we'll decide if you've screwed up - you don't have to worry about that) we'll throw you in our special Scientology prison. For how long? We'll just let you know when it's time to get out. You won't have to worry about those kinds of details. And you'll never have to worry about losing your job. We'll provide you with a solid job for your whole life. You'll do rewarding work on behalf of your fellow parishioners, like cleaning bathroom floors or scraping barnacles off of our luxurious cruise ship. And you'll get paid a fair wage! People in Ethiopia and Bangladesh will be just amazed at how much we pay you to perform simple yet rewarding tasks. Unexpected pregnancy? Don't worry, we'll get you an abortion. Planned pregnancy? Don't worry, we'll get you an abortion. Wait - you WANT to have a family? We'll schedule an appointment to talk to your supervisor about it. If we decide it's a good idea, you get to have a baby! We also provide free childcare, so you won't get distracted by your baby. But don't worry, you'll be reunited with your baby when it's in first grade! It's AWESOME!!
+Dave Thompson i think kids need to be taught how cults work and how to protect themself from their mind control games. Something like what Darren Brown does.
but Muh Xenu?
Now I understand why Nicol Kidman divorced Tom and left their adopted daughters with him, she had no other choice, I also see why Scientology is frowned down herre in Australia.
The mother is a cluelessly cruel woman. What she put her children through is child abuse on every level.
The 2 most loathsome actors in the world Cruise & Travolta, Katie Holmes & child had a very lucky escape
Yet Katie Holmes still seems brainwashed. She has no personality anymore. Her career has never recovered after her antics with Tom. Sad. She may have money and beauty, but I would never want to be her. She must be haunted by all she threw away by aligning herself with Tom Cruise and scientology.
Jen Holmes I refuse to watch them on tv or film. Tom Cruise is clearly out of his mind and very close to David Miscavidge 😡 the way Tom Cruise talked about Brooke Shields and her post natal depression was disgusting. Trouble is this cult is worth billions and owns billions worth in property. They find out people's secrets and then they have a hold on them .
Such courageous and well grounded young ladies . What a shame they had to endure such things .just amazing they have come out the other side with such poise and strength
A bit off topic ...this girl has the perfect skin, special glow :)
These scientology stories are just incredible
Astra has a beautiful voice.
I knew scientology sucked but I had no idea it was this bad, how come those creeps are all still free??
It sounds like pretty substantial crimes are being committed here. Seems like there should be a case made from all these videos, and CoS should be raided and closed as a criminal organization.
You would think wouldn't you?
Poor girl... her parents really did a number on her.
Glad they came round eventually...
I'd love to watch this as a movie with Astra as lead actor. The mom and dad too. This is good movie material
Powerful interview, strong young ladies. Man, what a mother, poor girls.
Astra you need to update everyone now on your progress 2016
She did a recent interview (2012) with Anderson Cooper.
thx, hope i find it :))
Wow! Unbelievable horror! How do these people get away with so much cruelty and abuse? Our federal, state and city governments are turning a blind eye to so much suffering.
This is very compelling
This young lady is articulate, healthy-looking, and above all, her euphonious speech could attest to being a fine woman with strong moral values, character and integrity. This is proof that some people are just born with certain innate admirable qualities. I am sorry she went through such traumatic experiences. The goodness inside the soul probably led her to find the true path to freedom, light and enlightenment.
“Reality” was a billion year contract.
Holy crap, why in the hell is this cult still allowed to function?
Breaking child labor and other workplace laws.
After seeing this interview and her dads I totally believe them both there wasn’t a single fault in their stories
Why would you not believe them by default? There's tons of videos like this from people who used to be in Scientology. Even the ones who weren't in Sea Org talk about what a con job it is, then they say to talk to the Sea Org folks for the real horror stories.
Two of the most articulate, smart, beautiful ladies. And tough as nails!!
What a remarkable young lady.
Did anyone else notice that not one time did Astra let anyone interrupt or speak over her?
The good thing is they got out when they were young! They have each other and I’m sure they have thrived as you can tell Astra and Zoe are smart and strong and free to make choices for themselves!!
Why are not the proper authorities now seeing this, not going into these Scientology facilities and raiding these buildings for living conditions and child labor laws being broken? These poor girls and their father!!! ARGH!
These poor people are being lied to constantly ...so abusive...Hope and pray God will shed the brightest light on this head guy and these people will be freed and paid back all the money that was stolen from them...and he is locked away....
It's remarkable for these girls to have such different point of views and levels of empathy from their mothers. I mean, they were indoctrinated by the cult of scientology since they were very young. They're very lucky to have a father that was intelligent and enough guts to questioned the cult teachings. It's obviously they got that NOT from the mother.
Glad to hear they're doing well now.
Why aren’t people like her mother arrested for child abuse?
2019 and this cult is still scamming!!!
Why can't you leave? I thought that was kidnappings, this just keeps getting worse. I wish everyone could quit that wackass cult. I feel so bad hearing the torture these people edure.
pladampa3 absolutely true needs to be illegal
I liked how they wernt able to strip the humanity out of these two girls even though they got them as pre adolecents
The abortion part, with the "would be grandmother" and her attitude about it teared me up instantly. This whole cult organization is horrible. I'm so glad they got out. I am a Christian and I am never made to never feel guilty if I miss church. We all sin, we just have to learn from our mistakes. We can all do good for the Earth without even being part of an organization, including Church. But, the Bible says we should fellowship with other Christ-minded people, so Churches are set up. It could be an outdoor arena, tent, or whatever. Having a personal relationship with Jesus is far better than any so called superior cursing at you daily and demanding impossible chores to be completed. Our Heavenly Father NEVER ask that of us. These poor brainwashed people are being punished for the most ridiculous things! I'm so happy these girls got out and bravely made this film for the world to see what really goes on! God gave everyone free will and this place eliminates that! Jesus, please help us to be the light of the world and tell everyone we can about You. Amen.
Haaaaa - 14 Scientologists gave this a thumbs down 👎🏼 Hail Xenu, Overlord of the Universe! 👻
Man..the cult sounded more like hell-hole bootcamp rather than anything else on Astra's story. Damn.
This vid is obviously a few years old, does anyone know how the girls & their father are doing ? Wonder if their mum is still in the church or has rejoined the family ?
The mom and brother are still in the SeaOrg. It's super destructive to have a policy of disconnection, but that's a big part of the tao of the "church."
Powerful interview.
It is a shame that the Lisa McPherson Foundation no longer exists because Scientology kept suing the group and the primary financial backer had enough.
Astra's website, Ex Scientology Kids, hasn't been active since 2015. The website shared with her father for their architectural firm hasn't been active since 2017. I suspect Scientology paid her and her father a lot of money to remain quiet. In return, they are probably allowed to talk to family and friends still in Scientology. It has previously been done with Marty Rathbun and others.
I wonder if any of the SPTV crew knows this family is love an update
@@melaniekaweck3433 Since I posted my comment, I believe it was on one of Aaron Smith-Levin's videos that it was implied the Woodcraft family took a huge buyout from Scientology to shut up and the cult would no longer fair game them.
Thanks for this!
All that screaming in the Sea Org is like military bootcamp but worse!
So these kids don't learn anything useful. They don't have a traditional school or college. They have to read books on a science fiction novel. When they get a Scientology degree, can they transfer those credits over to other universities?
CHICKEN SALAD knowledge is power. they dont want u to have any
As she explained, nobody ever graduates. It's clearly not a legitimate schooling and as was also stated after their form of "primary" they don't continue "education" even before the age of 18 for those who join the org. So logically speaking, why would you ask that? 🤦🏻 The answer is no. Obviously credits can't transfer to other colleges when they don't even finish primary. "Credits" in the college education sense are not even accrued whether legitimate or not therefore can't be transferred.
And all of this is ALLOWED TO CONTINUE??? WHY?
This video is an amazing reveal. Stacy Brooks is an amazing person. So sad LMT had to close and ST was ordered to stay silent.
ST?
And LMT is done now?
Hubbard studied the Gestapo rules of indoctrination and these reports prove it,where is the law ??
Thank you.
This is so sick! Djeez, the responsibility she had to carry as a 14-15 year old... I'm from the Netherlands and here you have to be 14 years old, before you're allowed to stock shelves at a supermarket.....
Emperor's new clothes!!!! Scientology is not fine. The schooling, the work conditions, the treatment of children, costs, relationship demands, mind control living conditions and diet, treatment of new scientologist are not OK.
Thinking of joining,$cientology listen how they treat their kids.
I think the thing I am most blown away by is her name is Astra Woodcraft
I cannot believe that the American authorities allow this to go on - it is ludicrous. I cannot believe they can treat children like this in the 21st century. Are Scientology paying the authorities ? Is that why this illegal stuff is allowed to happen?!? Utter madness
The americans call it “freedom”. The fact its an extreme liberal system allows for this. And Im right wing lol… but this is way to much. Public entitles should exist and government shoulf intervene. But the american way is live and let live.
What century are we in again? How is this sort of abomination (Scientology) allowed in the 21st century??.............what on earth is the Gov doing? Or not, as the case may be. And as bad and depraved as these stories are, I get the feeling that they don't even scratch the surface.
You two bright, beautiful, intelligent girls are my heroines.
I know the LMT is not around anymore, but is Stacy Brooks still out there helping former members?
When will this all end?
Girl's voice is relaxing. I'm actually going to use it to go to sleep.
I blame the parents... 'Astra Woodcraft' as a name is a clue...
How is this not imprisonment? Or holding someone against their will?