John Dehlin: “No One in a Cult Thinks They’re in a Cult” (Here’s Why) | DSH #1829

What happens when a belief system doesn’t just guide you… but controls you? In this conversation, John breaks down why active members often won’t ask for transparency, how high-control groups shape behavior through strict rules, and why the internet changed everything for modern religion. He explains Steven Hassan’s BITE Model (Behavior, Information, Thought, Emotion) in a simple way — and shows how it applies far beyond one church. We also get into the rise of ex-member communities online, why “community” is the real driver behind happiness studies, and how institutions can make small changes while punishing the people who pushed for them. What You’ll Learn 🎯 🧠 How the BITE Model explains control in religion, politics, and groups 🔒 Why members often avoid transparency questions (even when concerned) 📵 How high-control groups manage information + dissent 🌐 Why the internet reshaped faith communities and ex-member movements 💰 How tithing and temple access can function like a behavioral lever 🤝 Why “community” is the real driver behind religion-linked happiness ⚖️ How institutions can punish reformers while still adopting reforms Chapters (Timestamps) 0:00 — Why members don’t ask for transparency 1:00 — “The Mormon story is the human story” 2:40 — Religion as a tool for power 3:11 — The BITE Model explained 5:04 — The internet vs. information control 5:35 — 20 years of Mormon Stories 6:31 — Decline in developed countries + growth in Africa 9:12 — The church’s wealth + land ownership 11:19 — Tithing settlement + temple access pressure 18:36 — How change happens: punish the reformer, then adjust 🎙️ APPLY OR CONNECT 👉 Interested in being a guest? Apply here: https://www.digitalsocialhour.com/application 💼 SPONSORS 🥗 Fuel your health with Viome: https://buy.viome.com/SEAN Use code “Sean” at checkout for a discount! QUINCE: https://quince.com/dsh 📩 Business Inquiries & Sponsorships sean@digitalsocialhour.com 👤 GUEST John Dehlin: https://www.instagram.com/johndehlin/? https://www.johndehlin.com/ 🎧 LISTEN TO THE PODCAST 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-social-hour/id1676846015 🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jn7LXarRlI8Hc0GtTn759 📸 Follow the Host Sean Kelly on Instagram: @seanmikekelly ⚠️ DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed by guests on Digital Social Hour are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Sean Kelly, or the Digital Social Hour team. The host and producers are not responsible for statements, claims, or opinions shared by guests during the show. This content is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult qualified professionals when appropriate. While we aim to share accurate and reliable information, no guarantees are made regarding completeness or accuracy. 🔥 Stay tuned for more conversations with creators, founders, and innovators shaping the digital world. Keywords mormon stories, bite model, steven hassan, cult psychology, cult mind control, high control religion, religious trauma, ex mormon, mormon church transparency, tithing settlement, temple recommend, information control, behavioral control, emotional manipulation, thought control, online communitie Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.