In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, host Scott Loyd and guest Daniela Mestenec Young engage in a deep conversation with Ben John about the self-help industry, misguided mentors, and the red flags associated with cult-like organizations. Ben shares his personal journey of being involved in a self-help group that he later recognized as a cult, discussing the tactics used by leaders to manipulate followers. The conversation explores the importance of discernment in seeking guidance, the emotional costs of leaving such groups, and the need for authenticity in personal growth. Ben emphasizes that true growth comes from within and that individuals should be wary of those who exploit vulnerabilities for profit. Benjamin's Links Youtube Book Daniella's Links: You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured For more info on me: Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8 Daniella's Tiktok: https://bit.ly/4bwvNC0 Instagram: https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_ Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8 Other Podcasts Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women Scot's TikTok @thescotloyd Takeaways The self-help industry is largely unregulated and can be predatory. Misguided mentors often use manipulation tactics to control their followers. Vulnerability can be weaponized by cult leaders to create dependency. Leaving a cult can result in significant emotional and relational costs. Authenticity in personal growth is crucial; individuals should trust their instincts. Red flags include leaders who discourage independent thinking. Community and belonging are powerful human desires that cults exploit. Self-help should not come at the cost of personal well-being. It's important to recognize the difference between ethical and unethical sales tactics. Personal transformation can attract predators, so caution is necessary. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 02:27 The Rise of Misguided Mentorship 06:30 The Cult of Self-Help and Masculinity 11:44 Red Flags in Self-Help Groups 17:33 The Illusion of Vulnerability 23:20 Identifying Ethical Mentorship 29:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 30:45 The Charismatic Leader Phenomenon 32:11 The Transformation into Villainy 33:06 Awareness and Advocacy Against Cults 34:22 Navigating the Fine Line of Influence 36:13 Understanding Group Behavior and Manipulation 38:19 Creating Ethical Sales Practices 39:45 The Journey of Deconstruction 42:31 Authenticity in Storytelling 44:33 The High Cost of Leaving Cults 49:49 Advice to My Younger Self 51:16 The Permission to Just Be Produced by Haley Phillips

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