32 Best Indoctrination Podcasts to Listen to (2026)

Enter the Kingdom of the Cults with Cultish; a program that explores the impact of the cults from a theological, sociological, and psychologicalperspective. Immerse yourself in the thinking, teaching, strategies, and consequences born out of the nefarious leaders of these movements. more

Hosted by Tyler Measom and Liz Iacuzzi, Was I In A Cult? is a documentary-style podcast showcasing individuals who have been in, and most importantly, successfully left a cult. Told first-hand by the experiencer themself, these are raw, riveting and inspirational tales of what it means to be a survivor. Using levity and info-tainment, the show humanizes the cultic experience and may leave some of our listeners asking themselves 'Wait, Was I In A Cult?' If you or someone you know has been in a cult and want to share your story, contact us at ****@wasiinacult.com. We'd love to hear from you. more

Think you might be in a cult? Want to know the signs? Join Sarah Edmondson and Anthony 'Nippy' Ames to talk about things that are..a little bit culty. Or in their case: a whole bunch of culty. As whistleblowers documented in the critically-acclaimed HBO series 'The Vow,' Sarah and Nippy have a lot to say about their experience, and burning questions to ask people with similar stories. They're here to help people understand, heal from, and avoid abusive situations one little red flag at a time. Listen in as they share their stories, have frank and unscripted conversations with other survivors and cult experts, and do a deep dive on how devotion can turn to dysfunction. more

Mormon Stories Podcast is the longest-running and most successful podcast in Mormonism. At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mormon Stories is a product of the Open Stories Foundation - a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to supporting Mormons in religious transition. Mormon Stories is not affiliated with or sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. more

Cult Liter Podcast Host Spencer Henry brings the bizarre every Tuesday. Each week we'll dive into a new story of cults, crime, televangelists gone wild, you never really know what you're going to get, just a guaranteed good time. more

Putting the 'cult' in culture… Do you think SoulCycle is a cult? What about the Royal Family? What about Disney Adults? Or spiritual influencers? Is Instagram itself a cult? We're Sounds Like A Cult, an iHeart Radio Award-winning podcast that analyzes a different fanatical group every week to try and answer the big question: This ~sounds~ like a cult, but is it really? Created and hosted by New York Times-bestselling author Amanda Montell, co-hosted and produced by Chelsea Charles, Reese Oliver, and Iman Hariri Kia. For advertising opportunities please email ****@Studio71us.com We want to make the podcast even better, help us learn how we can: https://bit.ly/2EcYbu4 Privacy Policy: https://www.studio71.com/terms-and-conditions-use/#Privacy%20Policy more

Trust Me is a weekly interview podcast about cults, extreme belief, and the fine line between devotion and delusion—told through firsthand accounts from the people who lived it. Hosted by two women who've been in cults themselves, Lola Blanc and Meagan Elizabeth, the show features survivors from groups like Heaven's Gate, the Manson Family, NXIVM, OneTaste and more sharing personal stories of how they got in, how they got out, and everything in between. Each week, they invite these guests alongside experts who can dive deep into seductive leaders, the darker aspects of organized religion, and the subtler shades of groupthink and the psychology of influence. Trust Me explores it all with unfiltered honesty, dark humor, and a lot of heart. This isn't a sensationalized deep dive into cults—it's a compassionate, first-person exploration of what it means to believe, to belong, and to break free. At the end of the day, wanting to believe in something bigger than yourself is one of the most human instincts there is. more

Dismantling New Age cults, wellness grifters, and conspiracy-mad yogis. At best, the conspirituality movement attacks public health efforts in times of crisis. At worst, it fronts and recruits for the fever-dream of QAnon. As the alt-right and New Age horseshoe toward each other in a blur of disinformation, clear discourse, and good intentions get smothered. Charismatic influencers exploit their followers by co-opting conspiracy theories on a spectrum of intensity ranging from vaccines to child trafficking. In the process, spiritual beliefs that have nurtured creativity and meaning are transforming into memes of a quickly-globalizing paranoia. Conspirituality Podcast attempts to bring understanding to this landscape. A journalist, a cult researcher, and a philosophical skeptic discuss the stories, cognitive dissonances, and cultic dynamics tearing through the yoga, wellness, and new spirituality worlds. Mainstream outlets have noticed the problem. We crowd-source, research, analyze, and dream answers to it. more

An in-depth examination of the culture and politics of Christian Nationalism and Evangelicalism by two ex-evangelical ministers-turned-religion professors. If you have ever wondered what social and historical forces led white evangelicals to usher Donald Trump into the White House this is the show for you. As former insiders and critical scholars of religion, Dan Miller and Bradley Onishi have a unique perspective on the Religious Right. Guests have included Chrissy Stroop, R. Marie Griffith, Janelle Wong, Randall Balmer, Katherine Stewart, and many others. more

Let's Talk About Sects is an award-winning monthly podcast focusing on a different cult each episode. Sarah takes a storytelling, deep dive approach, looking at the history of a sect's leaders, the recruitment of members, their experiences, psychological aspects, and notable incidents during its existence. You can support us on Patreon , with a one-off donation , or grab some merch . Sarah Steel's debut book Do As I Say is available now . 'A fascinating and well-researched look into cults and the charismatic leaders behind them.' Peter Wells, The Sydney Morning Herald 'A fantastic examination of sects, cults, and religion… a fact-based program that'll hook you in and keep you coming back for more.' Zach Johnston, Uproxx 'Cleverly named, meticulously researched.' Elena Nicolaou, Refinery29 'The best podcast of its kind I can't wait for another episode!' Apple Podcasts review from a US listener 'I study cults and sects and for this reason listen to many podcasts on these subjects. This one is by far the best.' Apple Podcasts review from a US listener 'Best podcast about cults I've found.' Apple Podcasts review from an Australian listener Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. more

A podcast. About cults. Duh. Tune in each week as we cover groups ranging from Japanese Death Cults to the Violent Alt-Right. A perfect way to remember: Don't Drink the Kool-Aid! more

Steven Hassan, PhD, is one of the leading experts on cults and undue influence in the world. A former member of the right-wing Moonie cult, Hassan was deprogrammed 45 years ago and has dedicated his life to helping people out of cults and destructive situations. Dr. Hassan is a licensed mental health professional and has written four books, including The Cult of Trump and the seminal book Combating Cult Mind Control. On this podcast, Steve will explain HOW mind-control works, and how to protect yourself from its grips. He will also address ethical influence as the podcast will address the entire Influence Continuum. He'll interview the biggest names in this field. more

An Ex-Fundie, Deconstruction, and Cult podcast as told by cult survivor Sadie Carpenter, with her co-host Gavi HaCohen. This podcast covers Sadie's cult, (The Independent Fundamental Baptist church), other cults, (including Jonestown and the Branch Davidians), cult-related media (including reality TV shows and documentaries like The Duggars/19 Kids and Counting, Shiny Happy People, Welcome to Plathville, and Real Housewives of Salt Lake City), famous fundamentalist and fundie influencers, other religions, and the real and present threat that cults and cult ideologies pose to society as a whole. Our goal is to promote freedom of mind, freedom of thought, and freedom of religion. For press, sponsorship, and other inquiries, contact ****@gmail.com Join our Patreon for extended, uncensored, and ad-free versions of most of our episodes, as well as other patron perks and bonus content! https://www.patreon.com/LeavingEdenPodcast Join our Facebook group to join in the discussion with other fans! https://www.facebook.com/groups/edenexodus Social Media: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/leavingedenpodcast/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/LeavingEdenPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. more

For the curious & compassionate. Firsthand Survivor Stories of escaping cults, high-control groups & people. The Cults to Consciousness Podcast (and YouTube channel) is Hosted by Shelise Ann Sola (a former devout Mormon / CSA survivor) and her Producer husband, Jonathan Rosales. Not anti-religious but firmly anti-abuse, they aim to shed light on manipulative practices and systems, while promoting understanding and accountability. C2C has attracted a kind and engaged community who thoughtfully support their guests. Hit follow to join them on their advocacy mission! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. more

Welcome to IndoctriNation: A weekly podcast covering cults, manipulators, and protecting yourself from systems of control. more

That's So Fcked Up is a true crime lite podcast primarily about cults, but also murder and other generally awful things. TSFU brings you enthralling stories while looking at what causes them to happen. Join host Ashley Love Richards as she and her various co-hosts discuss what inspires people to do the awful things that they do. Nature? Nurture? Society? Let's investigate from our couches together! more

Religious and cult ideologies often use the practice of shunning to silence their critics and to control their members through fear. This podcast sheds light on shunning through real life stories as told by the people that have lived through it. Learn what their lives were like and where they have ended up in life after being shunned. Featuring stories from Jehovah's Witnesses, Scientology, Amish, Mennonite, FLDS, the Moonies, and more, you will learn about the real lives of former members that have been shut out by their former communities. The host is an exJW himself, a professional cult recovery coach, and provides insight into the psychology of coercive control and the impacts on those subjected to it through these high control groups. more

A podcast about cults, coercive control and recovery. Formerly called the Sensibly Speaking podcast, in this weekly show host Chris Shelton interviews cult survivors, psychologists and other professionals and specialists about the topics of cult recruitment, retention and recovery. This also includes non-religious cults and extreme political movements including the more divisive elements of MAGA and left-wing culture war issues. There is nothing off-limits but we always try to be respectful of the people involved even if we do not respect the beliefs or actions involved. more

Your two favorite ex-mormon apostates take you on a comedic exploration and analysis of new and old religious fundamentalism. Every week they examine hot-button issues like shame, sexuality, purity culture, and misogyny from a post-religious lens. Come and join the affirming and inclusive space for everyone navigating deconstruction, religion, society, and culture. more

Award Nominated Podcast. Long-Form Interview-Based Show Focusing on True Testimonies of Cult Survivors & Experts. Also Features Deep-Dive Research Episodes. more

Kitchen Table Cult unpacks all the things Kieryn and Eve learned at the kitchen tables of their childhoods in conservative Christian homeschooling families. Every week we take your questions and drill down on various topics about Quiverfull, the Religious Right, and our childhoods in high-demand groups (otherwise known as cults).We're not surprised about the rise of Trump, Christian fascism, or evangelical white women voting for someone like Mike Pence, and we want to take you back through the beginning of it all to explain why. more

Reconstruction after Deconstruction--after leaving destructive religious dogma behind!

Join Andrew Pledger in exposing Bob Jones University, a school known for its culture of indoctrination and control. BJU is a fundamentalist Christian college with roots in white supremacy and authoritarianism. The monthly podcast features survivors' stories from the university, and its affiliated churches, camps, and day schools. The show also explores BJU's influence beyond the university and its impact on American society. This show is a continuation of the limited series 'Surviving BJU: A Christian Cult.' Join my Patreon for bonus episodes and other exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/4ndrewpledger My Linktree: https://andrewpledger.mypixieset.com/links/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. more

Daniella Mestyanek Young is a captivating figure in the study of cults and group psychology. Raised in the notorious Children of God cult, she escaped as a teenager and later joined the U.S. military, where she specialized in studying terrorists and other extreme groups as a military intelligence officer. Daniella holds a master's degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Harvard Extension School and is the author of 'Uncultured,' a critically acclaimed memoir. Today, she is a scholar of cults, extreme groups, and toxic leadership, leveraging her unique experiences to illuminate the dynamics of cults and the manipulative tactics of charismatic leaders. Together with fellow cult survivor Scot Loyd, Daniella delves into the intricacies of some of the world's most notorious cults and reveals how these same manipulative techniques are present in various aspects of our society. more

Subscribe for weekly discussions with cult survivors, experts in religious trauma recovery, and other topics related to recovering from religious harms. This show is hosted by volunteers from Recovering From Religion, which is a non-profit organization that works to provide hope, healing, and support for people who have questions or doubts about their faith.Whether you are an atheist, religious, or leaving a cult, we hope you will find this podcast helpful. We aren't here to talk you out of or into faith. We just provide a safe place to examine beliefs. Episodes are adapted from RfRx events. more

The William Branham Historical Research Podcast investigates the life, teachings, and legacy of healing evangelist William Branham—one of the most influential and controversial figures of the 20th-century Pentecostal and Charismatic movements. Hosted by researcher John Collins, the series documents Branham's public record with verifiable sources: sermons, newspapers, archival materials, and eyewitness accounts. Each episode examines how his message evolved—from early Pentecostal roots to apocalyptic mysticism—and how his ideas shaped movements such as the Latter Rain, Deliverance revival, and today's New Apostolic Reformation. This is not an exposé or a sermon. It's a historical investigation: one that follows the evidence wherever it leads. Whether you're a former Message believer, a student of revival history, or simply curious about how spiritual movements grow and fracture, this podcast offers a clear, factual lens into a story that continues to shape modern faith and culture. Archive Episodes: Revival History: https://open.spotify.com/show/3iGoljtgQcqKsw1rdee7Wd Our Stories: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fgrEBadUWjPG8UNHDjPN3 Detangling IHOPKC: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XgqDkHqSzVbq6K3c6ytBk Hobart Freeman Unmasked: https://open.spotify.com/show/568hJwRQkOwxwIol3uCBQR Weird Doctrines: https://open.spotify.com/show/66kAcKN39qBuWF6KmWejib Weaponized Religion: https://open.spotify.com/show/36QffhTd8otCDtuoqyhCNS YWAM Deconstructed: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f8bfh69NSDFnfsxAlrkT5 Converging Apostasy: https://open.spotify.com/show/1pIHP0rJhg1bHoTLVNhkfx Views expressed by guests or co-hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Derby Media Group LLC. Legal: https://www.william-branham.org/site/legal Website: https://william-branham.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeavingtheMessage more

An interview show about people who grew up in cults and how they adjusted to mainstream society after they left. more

Become a Paid Subscriber: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jon-atack-family--friends/subscribeBecome a Paid Subscriber: https://anchor.fm/jon-atack-family--friends/subscribejon atack, along with his son sam, present a series of educational podcasts on how to spot, avoid, and overcome unethical manipulation of all kinds - from destructive cults and abusive relationships, to advertising, groupthink, bullying and more. join us in our hope to create a world where people are taught from infancy to stand up for their rights, look deeper into what they're being told, and to question everything!from time to time we will also be sharing 'lighter' fare - podcasts on art, music, and literature, featuring jon's younger son dan on guitar, sam's amazing paper sculpture. more

In this Webby Award-winning narrative podcast, co-hosts Josh & Malcolm from BRINK MEDIA reveal the hidden influence of the propaganda all around us and how it continues to profoundly shape our culture today. more

Kirsten Johnson Podcast is about deprogramming AA ideology and reclaiming your mind after AA indoctrination.

Listen in on conversations with former members of the PBCC. Ex-members open a window into one of the world's most powerful and influential cult and it's links to the Conservatives, crime, corruption and pedophilia. Discussions peel back the hidden layers within these cults and reveal the real trauma that occurs behind closed doors. Join members on their journey toward understanding, healing and personal development. more

Welcome to the cult.ture podcast Exploring the fine line between belief and manipulation In this podcast, we dive deep into the stories of cult survivors, unraveling the psychological, emotional, and social forces that pull people into these high-control groups. Through candid conversations, analysis, and firsthand accounts, we explore how belief can transform into manipulation, and how resilience leads to recovery. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok Thanks for rating us 5 stars on all major podcast platforms🫶 Support cult.ture pod over on Patreon Your support helps makes this happen and just know that you are not alone. more