Today, we're diving into the chilling and complex world of cults with one of the most respected voices in the field: Rick Alan Ross. Rick is the founder and Executive Director of the Cult Education Institute and is widely recognized as a leading authority on destructive cults, high-control groups, and controversial movements. He’s also the author of the acclaimed book Cults Inside Out: How People Get In and Can Get Out.

Since 1982, Rick has been studying and confronting the dangers posed by authoritarian and manipulative groups. His work has led him to testify as an expert witness in courts across the U.S., including in federal cases, and he has advised law enforcement and government agencies on cult-related matters.

In this episode, we explore it all — from the infamous Waco siege and the Branch Davidians, to the modern-day manipulation of NXIVM. Rick shares firsthand insights into how cults operate, the psychological tactics used by their leaders, and the difficult journey of deprogramming those who’ve been caught in their grip.

We’ll also discuss:

• The most dangerous and insidious cults Rick has encountered
• What drives cult leaders and why people follow them
• The process of intervention and deprogramming
• How social media is fueling a new generation of cult-like influence
• And the legal roadblocks to holding cults accountable

How It Falls Apart Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

Cult Education Website 👉🏼 https://culteducation.com/culteducation.html

Rick's book 📖 https://cultsinsideout.com/

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds Website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

In this episode, filmmaker J.W. Cox shares his journey through the world of filmmaking, discussing his favorite movies, the blending of genres, and the importance of building tension in storytelling. He reflects on the evolution of cinema, the technical aspects of filmmaking, and the challenges faced in the industry. Joe emphasizes the significance of education, the impact of financial literacy on student debt, and the value of pursuing one's passion in the arts. They discuss the importance of practical experience over formal education in creative fields, the transformative impact of AI on jobs and the arts, and the cultural richness of Appalachia.

Joe's Indiegogo Link: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/our-first-movie-end-of-another-time#/

Joe's Website - https://averagejoefilms.com/

How It Falls Apart Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds Book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds Website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

Takeaways

• Cinematic influences shape a filmmaker's style and storytelling.
• Genre blending can lead to unique and innovative films.
• Building tension is crucial for engaging storytelling.
• The evolution of film reflects societal changes and audience desires.
• Technical skills are essential for filmmakers, especially in indie projects.
• Education in filmmaking can vary greatly between programs.
• The film industry is challenging, but passion drives success.
• Financial literacy is important for managing student debt in education.
• Indie filmmaking offers authenticity that big-budget films often lack.
• Pursuing one's passion in the arts is a rewarding journey. You can go to college, but just start writing.
• AI is a significant threat to many jobs.
• The average debt for medical graduates is staggering.
• YouTube has democratized learning for many fields.
• Cultural legends shape our understanding of places.
• Social media is a necessary evil for marketing.
• Ohio has a rich cultural diversity often overlooked.
• The Appalachian region is steeped in superstition and lore.
• Personal histories can inform creative storytelling.

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In this episode, SFF and horror writer Anthony Ryan discusses the inspiration behind his novel Red River Seven, touching on the influence of the pandemic and the complexities of crafting villains. He explores the blurred lines between heroes and villains, the impact of cultural and historical contexts on writing, and the pursuit of happiness in modern society. Anthony shares insights into his writing journey, the transition from self-publishing to traditional publishing, and the importance of establishing a writing routine. The discussion also delves into the allure of post-apocalyptic fiction and the endless idea generation process that fuels his creativity.

Anthony's website 👉🏼 https://anthonyryan.net/

Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

Patreon 💯 https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership

Dark Finds IG 💀 https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/

Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel

Dark Finds book 📖 https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

Dark Finds website 👉🏼 www.darkfindsmedia.com

Takeaways

• The pandemic influenced the themes in Red River Seven.
• Villains should be complex and multi-dimensional.
• The line between hero and villain is often defined by perspective.
• Cultural and historical contexts shape writing.
• Happiness is relative and influenced by societal conditions.
• Post-apocalyptic fiction explores survival and human nature.
• Writing is a process that requires rewriting and refinement.
• Tracking progress can enhance writing productivity.
• The idea generation process is unpredictable and varied.
• Exploring different genres can enrich a writer's portfolio.

Red River Seven, Anthony Ryan, writing process, villains, heroes, post-apocalyptic fiction, happiness, cultural reflections, traditional publishing, idea generation

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