Inside Jodi Hildebrandt's Life Coaching That Ruined Lives

What drives an individual to the brink where fame and attention take precedence over the welfare of their own children? In the recent episode of "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski delves into the perplexing and deeply disturbing case of Ruby Franke with Robin Dreeke, retired FBI Special Agent and Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program.    Brueski ponders the motivations behind Franke and Jody Hildebrandt's actions: "Was it money? Was it control? Was it delusions of the religious beliefs that they held?" These haunting questions set the stage for a deep dive into the psyche and motivations of individuals pushed to extremes by societal pressures.    Dreeke reflects on the videos of Franke's sisters and describes the apparent competition between them. "It screams of the disease of a cult of more and the disease of comparison between sisters." The sisters, each with their own vlogging careers, seem to be caught in an insidious competition. He notes, "Ruby just went above and beyond because she wasn't getting the attention that she thought she deserved. She wanted more views."    But why this incessant need for attention? Dreeke further explains that the environment in which the Franke family thrived spoke of one-upmanship. "What drove them to that? What sort of tendency made them all feel that this is the way to go?" Brueski added, reflecting on the oddity of every adult sister in the family vlogging for a living.    The conversation then turns to an even more profound issue – the difference between "informers" and "me formers." Dreeke suggests that while informers put out information for the benefit of others, "me formers" are centered around self-promotion, often rationalizing their actions as beneficial for their audience. The Franke family, according to Dreeke, seems to consist mainly of "me formers."    In the case of Ruby Franke, her quest for fame and attention, combined with her competitive nature, seems to have overshadowed her moral compass, leading to the grave mistreatment of her own children. "She was in competition in her own mind against them to better them, to make herself feel better, to make herself feel valued for whatever insecurity," Dreeke hypothesizes.    One of the most chilling aspects of the discussion revolves around the normalization of abnormal behavior. Dreeke equates the situation to a "slow boiling frog" where people start accepting and normalizing behavior at a gradual level. By the time the severity of the situation is realized, it has escalated to alarming levels.    Brueski laments the missed red flags, "There were a lot of people for a long time that felt that Ruby was off." Yet, even with these warnings, it took an extreme situation – a child escaping from her custody – for decisive action to be taken. Dreeke urges listeners to recognize the signs and speak out: "See something, say something."    The conversation wrapped with a somber reflection on the pressures of modern society. The relentless drive for attention, validation, and comparison can lead individuals down dangerous paths. Dreeke emphasizes, "You were in a slow boiling kettle and you didn't realize that you were being manipulated by her normalizing abnormal behavior gradually."    As the story of Ruby Franke continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambition and the dark side of social media fame.    In today's world, where the quest for likes, views, and subscribers often supersedes genuine human connection, one must ask: How can we ensure the line between reality and the digital world doesn't blur to the point of no return? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

28 Syys 20238min

Is the line between cult behavior and entrepreneurial drive blurred in the recent spotlight on Jodi Hildebrandt's controversial group? Recent discussions on the podcast "Hidden Killers" delved deep into the actions and influence of Jodi Hildebrandt and her associate, Ruby Franke.    During the conversation, Tony Brueski and criminal defense lawyer Lori Hellis broke down the unsettling nuances that surround the activities of Hildebrandt and Franke. “Anytime you have an organization that is formed around a central figure...it certainly has cult overtones,” Hellis said. In Hildebrandt's case, her belief system and the proclamation that those who didn't adhere would face severe repercussions gave rise to serious concern. The dynamic between Hildebrandt and Franke became even murkier with the revelation of Franke's 2 million followers on YouTube and the subsequent potential monetary advantages.    Drawing parallels with the Lori Vallow Daybell case, Brueski questioned the motivations of such figures. “Was it money? Was it control?” he asked. The underlying intentions might be obscured, but a clear link to financial gain was established when it was revealed that Franke secured $87,000 in PPP loans for her YouTube channel. This revelation adds another layer to the complex dynamics at play.    A notable element in this discussion is the adoption of the “love and logic” parenting approach from the 1990s by Hildebrandt and Franke. Hellis mentioned, “I think they do believe that is the way to, to appropriately parent...she's got the answer and people want it and she can get them to pay for it.” However, this approach has taken a dark turn. The extreme methods used by Hildebrandt went far beyond typical strict parenting. Brueski highlighted, "It just seems to go way off the rails. How does someone end up sitting in their home duct-taping their children up and abusing them and going, ‘Yeah, this is strict parenting’?"    The conversation turned even more harrowing with the account of Jodi's niece, Jessie, who spoke of the severe and unimaginable discipline she endured under Hildebrandt's care. Hellis said, “For Ruby Franke's children, she had cut them off from everyone...the first thing the abuser does is isolate their victim.” This isolation is a telltale sign of abusive patterns and manipulation.    The responsibility and knowledge of Ruby Franke's husband became a crucial aspect of the conversation. Hellis gave insights into the possibility of him being more passive in the face of Franke's parenting tactics, implying that while he may not have directly been complicit, his passive stance potentially enabled the continued abuse. There were speculations about him wanting to reunite the family, but how much he knew or intervened remains a grey area.    From this conversation, one thing is evident: the line between cult behavior, delusional beliefs, and a drive for entrepreneurial success has been muddled in the activities of Jodi Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke. Their methods, beliefs, and actions pose significant concerns that demand scrutiny.    But as we delve into the motivations and intentions behind such controversial figures, one can't help but wonder: at what point does the drive for success or adherence to belief systems transform into dangerous fanaticism? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

27 Syys 20239min

Can the pursuit of personal introspection and reconciliation save a broken home? In the recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delved into the complex dynamics of the Franke household, seeking insights from attorney and former Federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani.    Kevin Franke, husband to the now infamous Ruby Franke, relayed a message through his attorney, emphasizing his commitment to prioritize their children's well-being. He stated he's been separated from Ruby for 13 months and wishes to "rebuild and bridge relationships," steering clear of blame games. But, as Rahmani queried, "Is this someone who's trying to get in front of this and not be charged as well?" The skepticism surrounding Kevin's intentions stems from disturbing allegations surrounding the household.    The chilling details brought forward allege instances where children's wounds were treated with a concoction of cayenne pepper and honey. Rahmani remarked, "It really takes a special kind of evil when you're dressing wounds with cayenne pepper and honey." Such horrendous accounts beg the question of Kevin's involvement or awareness and if he too was a victim of Ruby's manipulation or abuse.    Neighbours had consistently raised red flags about the Franke household's unsettling atmosphere. In their attempts to offer aid, some even left food at the doorstep, suspecting the children were malnourished. But their concerns seemingly fell on deaf ears, as interactions with the Utah Division of Child and Family Services left them believing that the agency's hands were tied due to Utah's free-range parenting law.    Rahmani criticizes this inaction, asserting that the evidence against Ruby Franke was compelling enough for intervention. "You can't tell me that law enforcement, social workers can't come in," he argued, emphasizing the ease with which a search warrant can be procured if there's probable cause of a crime. For Rahmani, the situation speaks to a broader, systemic issue, where child protective services, time and again, seem ill-equipped and overwhelmed.    "The crimes are committed in the dark," Rahmani points out, highlighting the hidden nature of such abuses, shielded further by the veil of secrecy that covers juvenile cases. He suggested that the lack of public scrutiny on such agencies – a result of the confidentiality shrouding child-related cases – might be hindering their accountability. "There's nobody that can hold their feet to the fire or not as easily hold their feet to the fire until something goes horribly wrong," Brueski concurred.    In Rahmani's view, the differential treatment and pressure experienced by various prosecutorial bodies play a significant role in their efficacy. While certain investigators are held accountable, either directly or indirectly, through electoral mechanisms, organizations like the DCFS don't necessarily share the same level of scrutiny. "DCFS obviously operates a little bit differently or Child Protective Services," Rahmani remarked.    The Franke case shines a spotlight on the pressing need to reassess and reform child protective systems nationwide. Without appropriate resources, training, and accountability mechanisms in place, such agencies risk repeating the tragedies that befall families like the Frankes.    How many more hidden tragedies must unfold before our system wakes up to the silent cries of the vulnerable? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

26 Syys 20237min

How did it remain under the radar for so long? This is the burning question that Tony Brueski and Jennifer Coffindaffer grapple with in a recent episode of "Hidden Killers". Ruby Franke's case has baffled many, especially when neighbors insist they weren't looking the other way but instead were actively trying to help. The actual barrier? The Free Range Parenting Law of Utah.    "Several of us tried to help. One neighbor commented saying, I know people left food on doorsteps knowing the kids might not be eating," recounts Brueski. Neighbors knew something was amiss and many reportedly made calls to the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) and the police. Yet, the children's lack of visible injuries meant that the hands of the law were tied. According to Brueski, the Free Range Parenting Law in Utah allows parents to leave their children alone if deemed of a responsible age, unless there are injuries.    Coffindaffer, a former FBI Special Agent, interjects with a nuanced perspective, acknowledging the legitimacy of a child's right to independence at a certain age but highlighting its boundaries. "That at a certain age, a child could be left alone. But again, there's usually time limits on that... for being able to be on your own and it not being dangerous to the child in many states. It's about 12 years old that age is but there's a time limit and it's not weeks and it's not days," she stated emphatically.    The law's application in the Franke case, however, has raised eyebrows. "That law that they have in Utah is in many states, but it's completely absurd to stretch that law to cover what was going on in this situation," Coffindaffer argues. She points out that neglect through starvation is separate and should not be hidden behind the Free Range Parenting Law. "Child welfare services in Utah has a lot explaining to do because there's no way you can hide behind the law they're talking about and explain starvation and neglect," she emphasized.    Brueski dives deeper into the peculiarities of Utah's legal system, suggesting that Utah's approach to these laws might have nuances that are different from other states. "Every time we talk about Utah, things are always just a little bit odd or different or don't quite make sense in so many of the legal ramifications in cases," he observes, questioning how much "gray area" Utah's legal framework allows.    Coffindaffer concurs with Brueski's sentiment, pointing out that Utah has what may be described as a "liberal application" when it comes to parenting decisions. "Out of all the states there are, you know, Utah is where you're going to see the most liberal application in terms of these sort of parenting, you know, free range decisions," she stated.    The revelations in the "Hidden Killers" podcast spotlight the potential dangers of laws that may be well-intentioned but can inadvertently create loopholes that endanger the welfare of children. The ongoing discussions surrounding Ruby Franke's case serve as a cautionary tale, prompting a re-evaluation of laws and their applications.    However, as the discourse around Ruby Franke's case and the Free Range Parenting Law continues, the question that still lingers is: Are there more cases of neglect concealed behind the veil of laws that were meant to protect? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

26 Syys 20233min

In a riveting episode of "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski delves deep into the perplexing details surrounding a recent crime scene with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott. The scene, as described, is nothing short of chilling: ritualistic markings, runes on bodies, and blood allegedly painted on a tree, suggesting an odinistic ritualistic killing.    "The scary thing is some of the connections that are made in the defense letter... It checks out," Brueski reveals, pointing to the involvement of individuals deeply entrenched in the odinistic religion. Their social media profiles, laden with odinistic symbols and references, further solidify the connection. More alarmingly, evidence, including a potential confession to a girlfriend, seems to have been overlooked, leading to Richard Allen's arrest.    Scott, while intrigued, approaches the topic with a healthy dose of skepticism. "It's just not common," she remarks, questioning the logic of a criminal leaving behind such blatant clues. Drawing from her knowledge, she recalls a similar case in California where three teenage boys committed a satanic ritualistic murder. "They left a trail a mile long," she notes, emphasizing the irrationality of such acts.    Brueski, grappling with the gravity of the situation, poses a question that many are likely pondering: "If anyone is participating in this sort of thing... what are they believing that they're getting out of that?" Scott's response paints a grim picture. She suggests that such acts might be the result of psychotic tendencies, where individuals are completely detached from reality. "This kind of thing is getting into psychosis," she states, emphasizing the sheer irrationality of ritualistic killings.    The conversation takes a darker turn as the duo delves into the possibility of group involvement. While it's one thing for an individual to be swayed by psychotic tendencies, the idea of a group collectively participating in such heinous acts is even more unsettling. Brueski points out, "We see it in movies... I think we think that this doesn't really go on in reality." Scott, however, reminds listeners of the Manson family's ritualized killings, highlighting the potential for impaired individuals to commit unspeakable acts under the right influence.    As the episode concludes, one thing is clear: while ritualistic killings rooted in ancient religions like Odinism are rare, they are not entirely unheard of. Scott's insights serve as a chilling reminder that while such acts are "pretty darn uncommon," they do, unfortunately, occur.    In a world where ancient beliefs intersect with modern crimes, how do we differentiate between genuine religious practices and sinister misinterpretations? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

26 Syys 20235min

In the latest episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski and featuring insights from former FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer, some alarming details surrounding the husband of Ruby Franke, Kevin Franke, have emerged.    The unfolding case against the notorious mommy bloggers has seen new twists with the recent statements from Kevin Franke, who claimed through his attorneys to be "focused on doing what's best for the kids." This comment comes in light of the shocking revelations of abuse allegations involving Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt.    But Brueski points out an unsettling nuance: Despite being separated from Ruby for 13 months, Kevin seemingly allowed his children to stay with Ruby, without any qualms. Coffindaffer noted, "It just doesn't pass the smell test." She referred to an older daughter who had previously made allegations, suggesting Kevin was aware of the dire situation. Even without direct contact, the visibly emaciated state of the children should have raised alarms.    Most disturbing were references to the children's alleged physical states – with indications of injuries consistent with being restrained with duct tape. Coffindaffer remains skeptical of Kevin's professed ignorance, stating, "I just don't believe he knew nothing."    The consensus? Kevin Franke is possibly keeping silent to avoid implicating himself. Coffindaffer speculates that Ruby might eventually shift blame onto him, suggesting he could hold critical information on the events of those years.    Yet, another compelling twist emerged when Kevin's attorney hinted at his possible involvement in past traumatic events. Whether inadvertently or not, the comment suggested more than what met the eye during the period when Ruby was with Jodi Hildebrandt.    Coffindaffer elaborated on the situation, commenting on the inadvertent admission: "I don't think he meant to really make that quasi admission... but he did." This slip has left many speculating about the depth of Kevin's involvement.    Brueski, taking a somewhat sympathetic view, hypothesizes that Kevin might have been abused by Ruby as well. He said, "Is that he too was probably abused by Ruby. I don't know how involved he would have been with the abuse." Coffindaffer, on the other hand, expresses frustration, urging Kevin to "man up" and share the true extent of what transpired, for the sake of his children.    The parallels drawn between the Franke situation and the Lori Vallow Daybell case suggest a more complex narrative beneath the surface, with potential elements of 'magical thinking.'    As the story unravels, one crucial question remains: If Kevin Franke is, indeed, privy to deeper secrets, will he finally break his silence, or will these potential truths remain hidden? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

25 Syys 20236min

Can the divide between organized religion and personal spirituality give rise to cases of child abuse, and how does accountability fit in?    In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast hosted by Tony Brueski, a riveting conversation with Clinical and Forensic Psychologist & Licensed Private Investigator Joni Johnston sheds light on a case that has gripped many - the troubling tale of Ruby Franke and Jody Hildebrandt, known as the Mormon mommy bloggers. These women have found themselves submerged in allegations of child abuse, a narrative that not only places their lives under scrutiny but also poses questions about the role of organized religion in these actions.    To provide some context, Ruby Franke and her husband, Kevin, according to their attorney, have been separated for roughly 13 months, with Ruby living with Jody Hildebrandt. During this period, one of their children allegedly "escaped" their residence and sought refuge in a neighbor's house. Kevin, as per his lawyer, emphasizes his commitment to "doing what's best for his kids" and aims to rebuild familial bridges.    Brueski probed Johnston on Kevin's awareness of the events transpiring in the Franke household, to which she responded, "It's hard to imagine that he didn't know some of what was going on for sure... Based on the information I have, how much of an active participant he was, but I would be very surprised if he did not know some of what was going on." Johnston speculated that things might have escalated after their separation, but some of their older children have indicated that such behavior has been ongoing for years.    One pressing theme emerged from the dialogue: the link between organized religion, in this case, the Mormon faith, and instances of abuse. Several recent cases involving individuals of the Mormon faith exhibited extreme parental tactics, leading to the question of how much organized religion plays a role in such actions. Johnston observed, "It isn't necessarily the religion's fault if people then distort those religious beliefs or twist them for their own benefit."    This raises an intriguing angle about the juxtaposition between organized religion and personal spirituality. Johnston pointed out how some might misuse religion as a shield, hindering them from seeking professional mental health care because it could be perceived as a "weakness of faith."    The conversation took a deeper turn when Brueski highlighted a concern - the Mormon Church's endorsement of Jody Hildebrandt as a counselor. This endorsement, coupled with the ongoing situation, evoked the question: "Is this a reflection of a greater problem within that church?"    Johnston's perspective on the matter brings up another pivotal point – the uneasy relationship between religion and mental health. She stressed the need for a clear boundary between one's religious beliefs and mental health care, especially when dealing with sensitive cases. "One of the most difficult things about this case for me is that Jody Hildebrand is a mental health professional," said Johnston, adding how unsettling it is to think that a mental health professional could endorse abusive tactics.    Another alarming revelation from the discussion was the multiple alerts Child Protective Services received from concerned neighbors about the Franke children's welfare. Still, it took an extreme situation for proper action to be taken. Johnston shared her experience working with abused kids, highlighting the systemic problems within child welfare agencies, from understaffing to the dilemma of prioritizing family unity over child safety. Brueski and Johnston both championed the need for better resources and systems to protect children genuinely.    In an era where we advocate for children's safety and mental well-being, stories like these force society to reckon with its values and beliefs. The case of Ruby Franke and Jody Hildebrandt presents more than just a story of alleged abuse; it unravels complex webs of religion, societal norms, and accountability.    In the face of these revelations, one is left to ponder: Where do personal beliefs end and the need for professional intervention begin? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

23 Syys 202310min