
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 a... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 300 | Founded | 10 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | EducationReligion & Spirituality | |||

This week we went live for the 100th episode of the Speaking of Cults podcast. I have some personal reflections and experiences to share as a cult expert and human in this world which I hope will be of some use to my listeners.
This week I welcome back Shannon Grover and Bryce Blankenagel to discuss the details of Mormon missionaries and what they actually are called upon to do. It's straight up slave labor under the guise of religious dedication and the Mormon Church is ma... more
This week I welcome Marissa Franks Burt and Kelsey Kramer McGinnis, authors of the new book The Myth of Good Christian Parenting, a deep exploration of the myths that permeate Christian communities throughout the world about what is "good parenting" ... more
This week I welcome Cheryl Hope and Richard Marsh from the Get a Life Podcast to discuss the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (formerly Exclusive Brethren), a religion/business group with a fascinating background and even more wild structure which ... more
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Chris you’re amazing thank you for the podcast I’ve learnt so much !!
Chris is such a kind soul, he exudes his curiosity and determination to get to the bottom of issues. I admire his bravery. If you’re interested in deep conversations about corrupt religions - this is your place!
Always equally well-researched, patient, and entertaining. Truly a pleasant and comforting listen!
I love the approach Chris takes to question, explore and bring some good old fashioned critical thinking to the whole field of culty recovery and deconstruction. We get to learn these lessons or relive them … this podcast is a must follow if you are looking to understand the mind set and implications of culty manipulation and control.
Long time listener. I really enjoy this thoughtful podcast. It sounds like you owe Aaron an apology. Extra star for you if you do because that would be the classy move.
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.









Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
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The episodes primarily revolve around the intricate themes of cult dynamics, coercive control, and recovery experiences from individuals involved in high-control environments, including both religious and secular contexts. Discussions frequently highlight the psychological and social implications of such organizations, extending to political movements and ideologies that reflect cult-like characteristics. Host Chris Shelton engages with a variety of guests, including survivors and experts, to unpack the mechanisms of indoctrination, the emotional ramifications of leaving such groups, and the broader societal influences at play. Notably, the podcast does not shy away from examining divisive contemporary issues, paving the way for nuanced con... more
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These podcasts share a similar audience with Speaking of Cults:
1. Cults to Consciousness
2. A Little Bit Culty
3. Leaving Eden Podcast
4. Was I In A Cult?
5. Life After MLM
Speaking of Cults launched 10 years ago and published 300 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Speaking of Cults include:
1. Cheryl Hope
2. Richard Marsh
3. Mitch Brisker
4. Rachel Bernstein
5. Patty Moher
6. Zach Elwood
7. Jennie Gage
8. Bethany Leger
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