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 scho ...
…
continue reading
Scot Loyd Podcasts
The EFPG podcast was started by Kevin Pendergrass and Dr. Lee Grant. After 105 episodes, Kevin and Lee needed a break, so they turned the reigns over to their good friend Daniel Rogers. Daniel is a co-minister at the North Broad Church in Albertville, Alabama. His website is https://danielr.net.
…
continue reading
1
Cults & The Culting of America with Knitting Cult Lady and Scot Loyd | ep50 | One Taste Sex Cult
43:32
43:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:32
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella Mestyanek Young (“the Knitting Cult Lady”) interview Ruwan, a former member of OneTaste, a so-called “orgasm cult” centered around female sexuality and human connection. Ruwan recounts his two years in the organization, explaining how he was drawn in by its promises o…
…
continue reading
1
Cults & The Culting of America with Knitting Cult Lady and Scot Loyd | ep49 | Cycle Breaking
40:47
40:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:47
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Daniella Mestyanek Young and Scot Loyd welcome Sydney, a member of the Cult Book Club, to share her personal story of growing up in the shadow of a multigenerational cult. Sydney recounts her family’s involvement with the commune Christ Circle in the 1970s–80s, her experience being homescho…
…
continue reading
1
Cults and The Culting of America with Knitting Cult Lady and Scot Lloyd | Episode 47 | The Cultiness of Nursing
57:33
57:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:33
This episode of Cults and the Culting of America features guest Jess M. (aka White Mess Express), a former nurse, alongside hosts Daniella Mestyanek Young and Scot Loyd. The conversation explores how the U.S. healthcare system—particularly nursing—resembles a cult in its culture, practices, and systemic issues. Jess describes the hierarchical "rite…
…
continue reading
1
The Revelation of a Nonviolent Messiah || S03:E06
1:21:50
1:21:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:21:50
In this comprehensive overview of the Book of Revelation, Daniel Rogers explores the text's purpose, context, and the significance of its imagery. He emphasizes the importance of understanding Revelation as a message of hope and encouragement for early Christians facing persecution. The discussion covers the authorship, the messages to the seven ch…
…
continue reading
1
Cults and The Culting of America with Knitting Cult Lady and Scot Lloyd | Episode 46 | The God I Was Given book coming out soon!
1:02:22
1:02:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:22
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, Scot Loyd joins Haley while Daniela is away on her book tour. The conversation centers on Scot’s forthcoming memoir The God I Was Given: Looking for Faith After Losing My Religion, which blends personal memoir with philosophical and scholarly reflections on growing up in the United Pentecostal Ch…
…
continue reading
1
Cults and The Culting of America with Knitting Cult Lady and Scot Lloyd | Episode 45 | Sunday Brunch: The Musical
43:06
43:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:06
In this episode, Scott Loyd interviews the creators and a performer from Sunday Brunch: The Musical, a new theatrical work that humorously explores cult dynamics through a family brunch gone spectacularly wrong. While cult expert and regular host Daniella Mestyanek Young is absent due to technical difficulties, she sends in praise for the team’s vi…
…
continue reading
1
What is Worship in Spirit and Truth? w/ Tom Wadsworth || S03:E05
1:09:09
1:09:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:09
In this conversation, Daniel Rogers and Tom Wadsworth explore the concept of worship from a biblical perspective, focusing on the New Testament's teachings and the cultural context of early Christian assemblies. They discuss the distinction between normative and prescriptive approaches to worship, the significance of the term 'proskuneo' (to bow do…
…
continue reading
This episode of Cults and the Culting of America features guest Kelvin, a political scientist and community organizer, in a deep dive on whether capitalism functions as a cult and how overlapping systems like patriarchy, white supremacy, and religion have historically reinforced each other. The hosts, Scot and Daniella, explore the evolution of the…
…
continue reading
1
Is There a Biblical Pattern for a Worship Service? w/ Tom Wadsworth || S03:E04
1:00:39
1:00:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:39
In today's episode, Daniel Rogers interviews Tom Wadsworth concerning his doctoral level research on the early Christian assemblies. Contrary to what most Christians assume, the New Testament never actually talks about a worship service. For those of us raised within the Churches of Christ, this means there is no biblical pattern for a mandatory wo…
…
continue reading
1
The God I Was Given w/ Scot Loyd || S03:E03
1:01:16
1:01:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:16
In this episode, Daniel Rogers interviews Scott Loyd about his journey through faith, exploring themes of deconstruction, high control religious environments, and the quest for belief beyond dogma. Scott shares his experiences growing up in a strict Pentecostal background, his transition to a more progressive faith perspective, and the impact of po…
…
continue reading
1
Episode 42 | "Not My Church": Plausible Deniability in High-Control Systems
57:52
57:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:52
In this revealing and emotionally rich episode of Cults and the Culting of America, Cynthia Williams joins hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella Mestyanek Young to unpack her journey through—and out of—the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI). Cynthia shares how, like many others, she once believed that her local church was different. The rules we…
…
continue reading
1
The Divine Feminine w/ Anni Ponder || S03:E02
1:01:23
1:01:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:23
In this engaging conversation, Daniel Rogers and Anni Ponder explore the concept of the Divine Feminine within Christianity. Anni shares her personal journey and the evolution of her faith, discussing the importance of recognizing feminine aspects of God. They delve into the implications of language, inclusivity, and the historical context of the D…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Exploring Faith Pursuing Grace, host Daniel Rogers speaks with Sally Breedlove and Willa Kane about their book series, Eighth Day Prayers. They discuss the origin of the series during the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of the eighth day as a symbol of new creation, and the importance of scripture in prayer. The conversation …
…
continue reading
In this episode, Daniel Rogers reflects on his experiences in graduate school, discusses the influence of Robert Irwin, and shares insights on the relationship between marriage and how children of God are made through the lens of Galatians 3. He explores the story of Ruth, the significance of the eunuch's journey, and the overarching theme of resur…
…
continue reading
1
Episode 41 | Decolonizing Yourself with Hilary Giovale
56:44
56:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:44
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, host Scot Loyd and Daniella Mestyanek-Young (KnittingCultLady) sit down with Hilary Giovale—a ninth-generation settler living among Indigenous communities in Northern Arizona. Hilary opens up about her journey from segregation to engaging deeply with Native communities, emphasizing how re-educati…
…
continue reading
In this conversation, Daniel Rogers delves into the themes of contemplative prayer and the significance of women in the early church as highlighted in Romans Chapter 16. He emphasizes the importance of love over knowledge in spiritual pursuits and explores the roles of key figures such as Phoebe, Priscilla, Aquila, and Junia, advocating for the rec…
…
continue reading
This week on Cults and the Culting of America, we’re turning the mic toward someone you all know well—our beloved cohost, Scot Loyd. With no guest this episode, Daniella takes the opportunity to spotlight Scot’s powerful personal journey and upcoming book, The God That I Was Given. In an open and layered conversation, Scot reflects on his years ins…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Daniel Rogers explores Romans chapter 15, discussing themes of strength and weakness in faith, the importance of pleasing others over oneself, and the role of scripture in encouraging unity within the church. He emphasizes the need for acceptance and servanthood, highlighting that Christ died for all and that believers should suppo…
…
continue reading
1
Episode 39 | "Satanic Panic" Facts and Fiction
1:04:41
1:04:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:41
Summary In this episode, the hosts delve into the complex world of cults, focusing on the Satanic Panic and the influence of charismatic leaders like Franklin Jones. They explore the historical context of cults, the role of fear and control, and the lasting impact of cult experiences on individuals. Through personal stories and reflections, the con…
…
continue reading
In this conversation, Daniel Rogers explores the themes of unity, acceptance, and love within the context of faith, particularly through the lens of Romans 14. He emphasizes the importance of accepting one another despite differences in beliefs and practices, highlighting that true unity comes from accepting others as they are, just as Christ accep…
…
continue reading
In this conversation, Daniel Rogers delves into themes of enmity, authority, love, and the concept of salvation as presented in Romans 13. He reflects on Wendell Berry's poem about human connection and the arbitrary nature of enmity. Rogers discusses the misinterpretation of biblical texts regarding authority and the call for Christians to respond …
…
continue reading
1
Episode 38 | Starbucks and Corporate Cults
56:56
56:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:56
In this conversation, Daniella and Kasi explore the cult-like aspects of Starbucks, discussing Kasi's personal journey from barista to store manager and the emotional and psychological dynamics at play within the corporate structure. They delve into themes of recruitment, vulnerability, the illusion of family, leadership programs, and the impact of…
…
continue reading
1
Episode 37 | Caring For Relatives When They Didn't Care For You
51:09
51:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:09
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, host Scot Loyd and guest Jonathan Hirsch delve into the complexities of growing up in a cult-like environment, specifically under the influence of Franklin Jones. They explore the allure of charismatic leaders, the sacrifices made by children in these settings, and the long-term emotional impacts…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Daniel Rogers delves into Romans chapter 12, exploring themes of transformation, worship, and the roles within the body of Christ. He emphasizes the importance of living as a sacrifice, the power of genuine love, and the Christian response to evil. The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of believers and the call to overco…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Scott and Daniella engage with Brianna, who shares her profound journey through the world of yoga and her experiences at Yogaville, a yoga community that turned out to be more complex than it seemed. Brianna discusses her initial attraction to the community, the positive aspects she encountered, and the darker realities that unfold…
…
continue reading
In this conversation, Daniel Rogers delves into Romans chapter 11, exploring themes of God's mercy, the role of Israel and Gentiles, and the biases that influence scriptural interpretation. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the remnant of Israel, the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan, and the depth of God's wisdom and mercy. The discu…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Daniel Rogers explores themes of worry, salvation, zeal, and the importance of knowledge in faith. He discusses the nearness of the word of God and the significance of confession in achieving righteousness. The conversation emphasizes the good news of the gospel and the universal invitation to salvation, while also reflecting on Is…
…
continue reading
1
Episode 35 | AA From an Addiction Specialist
58:02
58:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:02
In this episode, Scott Loyd and Daniela Mestyanek-Young engage in a deep conversation with Andi Wiseman about the nature of cults, particularly focusing on the military and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). They explore the harmful aspects of 12-step programs, the intersection of addiction and systemic issues, and the importance of listening to survivors.…
…
continue reading
In this conversation, Daniel Rogers delves into Romans Chapter 9, exploring themes of predestination, election, and the future of Israel. He discusses Paul's deep sorrow for his people, the significance of the covenants, and the role of the remnant in salvation. The conversation emphasizes God's mercy and compassion for all, including Gentiles, and…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scot Loyd and Daniella Mesteneck Young engage in a profound conversation with Jack about the complexities of masculinity, the cultural constructs surrounding gender identity, and the emotional struggles faced by men in contemporary society. Jack shares his personal journey from a troubled u…
…
continue reading
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 …
…
continue reading
In this episode, Daniel Rogers explores the themes of suffering, transformation, and the nature of creation as discussed in Romans. He emphasizes the importance of viewing suffering as a pathway to glory and the role of the Spirit in guiding believers through their struggles. The discussion also touches on the concept of election, highlighting that…
…
continue reading
1
Episode 32 | Satanic Panic Debunked
1:01:35
1:01:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:35
In this episode of Cults and the Culting of America, hosts Scott Loyd and Daniela Mesteneck Young engage in a profound conversation with Lydia Knight, who shares her harrowing experiences growing up in a cult. Lydia discusses the complexities of her upbringing, including themes of racism, the satanic panic, and the psychological impact of fear and …
…
continue reading
