What began as a self-help movement for ambitious women became one of the most disturbing cults in modern history. Led by so-called guru Keith Raniere, NXIVM lured in Hollywood stars, heiresses, and professionals — only to trap them in a secret society built on control, blackmail, and abuse. Join Vanessa Richardson as she unravels how NXIVM’s “executive success” seminars turned into a nightmare of branding, manipulation, and modern-day slavery. Conspiracy Theories, Cults, & Crimes is a Crime House Original Podcast, powered by PAVE Studios. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. For ad-free listening and early access to episodes, subscribe to Crime House+ on Apple Podcasts. Don’t miss out on all things Conspiracy Theories, Cults, & Crimes! Instagram: @Crimehouse TikTok: @Crimehouse Facebook: @crimehousestudios X: @crimehousemedia YouTube: @crimehousestudios To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.