How Jodi Hildebrandt Destroyed Marriages and Lives Before Her Arrest, New Documentary Released

How Jodi Hildebrandt Destroyed Marriages and Lives Before Her Arrest, New Documentary Released

How Jodi Hildebrandt Destroyed Marriages and Lives Before Her Arrest, New Documentary Released

Jodi Hildebrandt, the disgraced Mormon therapist sentenced to four to 30 years in prison for child abuse, was once a trusted counselor who claimed to help couples heal. However, a chilling new documentary reveals how she manipulated her clients, particularly women, into turning against their husbands—often leaving them with destroyed marriages and shattered reputations.

Before forming an alliance with fellow convicted child abuser and YouTube parenting influencer Ruby Franke, Hildebrandt ran LifeStar Utah County, a franchise focused on treating sex and pornography addiction. Her methods, however, went far beyond therapy, as multiple former clients now claim she used fear and religious guilt to control families and break apart relationships.

In The Curious Case Of… Jodi Hildebrandt, released by Investigation Discovery, male clients describe how she systematically alienated their wives, making them see their husbands as abusers or sinners. Adam Steed, one of Hildebrandt’s former clients, had sought therapy alongside his wife to cope with childhood trauma. Instead of healing, he claims Hildebrandt influenced his wife to the point where she “lost the ability to know for herself if something was right.”

“She sought Jodi’s approval for everything,” Adam recalled. “It was like a drug for her.”

Then, Adam says, his wife orchestrated a horrifying trap. After months of Hildebrandt’s strict guidance, which prohibited physical affection between spouses, Adam’s wife suddenly encouraged him to bathe their baby. While he was in the tub with the child, she entered the room in lingerie, acting flirtatiously. At first, Adam thought his wife was reconnecting with him. But when she saw his physical response, her demeanor changed.

“She looked at my private parts disgusted and just walked off,” he said.

Shortly after the incident, Adam’s wife filed for divorce, sought a protective order against him, and took full custody of their children. She accused him of having inappropriate boundaries due to his own history of childhood sexual abuse.

“My biggest fear being a victim of sexual abuse was to be accused of being a sexual abuser,” he said.

Adam wasn’t the only husband who lost everything under Hildebrandt’s guidance. Daniel Choate, another former client, described how his wife weaponized the therapist’s teachings against him.

After admitting to occasionally looking at pornography, Daniel sought help from Hildebrandt alongside his wife. However, instead of helping them work through their differences, Hildebrandt convinced his wife that his actions were equivalent to infidelity. Soon, Daniel was sleeping outside the marital bed, forbidden from entering their shared bedroom except during specific time slots.

“If I didn’t abide by these rules, she let me know that she was going to take the kids and leave,” he said.

Eventually, his wife accused him of sexual misconduct and left him, cutting him off from his children. Through tears, Daniel denied the allegations.

“I would never hurt my daughter,” he said.

While Hildebrandt’s controversial therapy practices destroyed marriages, her crimes went even further. In August 2023, she was arrested and charged with six counts of aggravated child abuse. Authorities discovered two of Franke’s children at her residence in horrific conditions—starved, beaten, and restrained with duct tape. One of the children, a 12-year-old boy, managed to escape and seek help from a neighbor, leading to the arrests of both women.

Hildebrandt pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse and was sentenced to four consecutive terms of one to 15 years in prison. In February 2024, Franke received a sentence of four to 60 years. Their exact sentences will be determined by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole.

Franke’s estranged husband, Kevin, had not seen their children for over a year and was not charged with any crime. Prosecutors revealed disturbing details during her trial, including doorbell camera footage showing the emaciated 12-year-old boy, shackled and covered in bruises, begging neighbors for help.

The Curious Case Of… Jodi Hildebrandt is part of Investigation Discovery’s The Curious Case Of series, which airs Mondays at 10/9c.

#JodiHildebrandt #RubyFranke #MormonScandal #TrueCrime #InvestigationDiscovery #MarriageManipulation #ChildAbuse

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What ELSE Did Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Do To Their Children That We DIDN'T Hear About?

What ELSE Did Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Do To Their Children That We DIDN'T Hear About?

Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt finally sentenced – but was it enough? After shocking the world with their horrific child abuse, Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt have been handed prison sentences of up to 60 years each.  But is this justice for their crimes? On this episode of Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski brings in retired FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer to dissect the sentencing and the lingering questions the case raises. “I was happy to see the 60-year exposure...both of these were sentenced to the same sentence. Do you think that was fair?” Brueski probes. Coffindaffer raises a crucial point:  as the children's mother, did Ruby deserve even harsher punishment than her co-conspirator, Jody?  The discussion explores the chilling dynamic between abuser and abused, questioning both women's roles in the horrific crimes. The hosts analyze the apologies made in court.  Was Ruby truly remorseful when she said, "I am committed to unlearning my toxic behavior"?  Can such monstrous behavior ever truly be unlearned, or are they both capable of repeating these horrors? "She’s capable of this and much more... I think he should be held responsible to a degree as well," Coffindaffer remarks regarding Kevin, Ruby's husband. Might he also be culpable? The episode delves into chilling details from the Eight Passengers videos and police interactions, highlighting the pattern of abuse that likely escalated behind closed doors. Were Ruby and Jody stopped only because they got caught?  Would they still be abusing these children if not for the intervention? Join this haunting discussion on Hidden Killers and grapple with the uncomfortable questions this disturbing case raises.   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, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

27 Feb 20247min

How Long Will Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Serve In Prison, Eric Faddis Weighs In?

How Long Will Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Serve In Prison, Eric Faddis Weighs In?

This episode of Hidden Killers dives into the sentencing of Mormon mommy bloggers Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt, who were convicted of child abuse. Host Tony Brueski is joined by former Felony Prosecutor and attorney Eric Faddis to dissect the details of the case and the sentencing process. Key points discussed: Sentencing: Both Frankie and Hildebrandt received 4 consecutive 15-year sentences, with the possibility of parole after serving 1 year per sentence. Faddis explains how the final sentence length will be determined by the prison system based on factors like behavior and good time credits. Plea Deal: The defendants opted for a plea deal to avoid a trial and potentially spare the victims further trauma. Faddis analyzes the strategic move and its potential benefits in terms of reduced sentencing. Accountability: While both received the same sentence, the discussion delves into whether Frankie, as the alleged ringleader, deserved harsher punishment. Rehabilitation: Faddis expresses optimism for rehabilitation but questions the depth of change possible after such extreme behavior. Protecting Children: The episode concludes with the hope that Frankie and Hildebrandt will be kept away from children for an extended period. Overall, this episode offers a nuanced look at the complexities of the case, the legal aspects of sentencing, and the ongoing challenges of child abuse.   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, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

27 Feb 20246min

COURT - BREAKING NEWS - The Sentencing Of Ruby Franke -WEEK IN REVIEW

COURT - BREAKING NEWS - The Sentencing Of Ruby Franke -WEEK IN REVIEW

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.   Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.  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 Feb 202418min

COURT - Breaking News - The Sentencing Of Jodi Hildebrandt  -WEEK IN REVIEW

COURT - Breaking News - The Sentencing Of Jodi Hildebrandt -WEEK IN REVIEW

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.   Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.  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

24 Feb 202412min

BREAKING NEWS: The Sentencing Of Ruby Franke

BREAKING NEWS: The Sentencing Of Ruby Franke

Could a mother and her mentor, once trusted with the care and guidance of children, be responsible for their abuse? This troubling question has been answered in the case of Ruby Franke, a parenting YouTuber, and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt. Both women have been sentenced to four consecutive prison terms each, following guilty pleas to child abuse charges. The case came to light after one of Franke's children fled Hildebrandt's residence in August, seeking help from a neighbor. Franke, known for her "8 Passengers" YouTube channel, and Hildebrandt, who ran ConneXions Classroom, faced six counts of aggravated child abuse, with each count carrying a possible prison term of one to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000. During sentencing, state prosecutor Eric Clarke likened the environment Franke's children endured to a "concentration camp-like setting," describing Franke's actions as "horrible acts of child abuse." Clarke also labeled Hildebrandt a "significant threat" to the community. In court, Franke acknowledged her guilt and expressed gratitude to the officials who rescued her children. She agreed to testify against Hildebrandt as part of her plea deal. Hildebrandt's plea agreement revealed her awareness and participation in the abuse. Disturbingly, it included forcing Franke's daughter to repeatedly jump into a cactus and detailed other heinous acts of torture. Franke's family, including her husband Kevin Franke, who has filed for divorce, has been left to grapple with the aftermath. Kevin's lawyer stated his focus on keeping the children together and under his care. In a recent court appearance, Ruby Franke apologized to her former husband, calling the end of their marriage a "tragedy." Statements from Franke's family, including her brother Beau Griffiths, suggest Hildebrandt's manipulative influence over Franke. Griffiths, himself a former participant in Hildebrandt's program, accused Hildebrandt of brainwashing his sister. The sentencing marks the end of a harrowing chapter for the Franke family and raises serious questions about the influence and responsibility of those in positions of trust. As Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt face the consequences of their actions, one wonders: How did such a trusted figure in parenting guidance fall so far from grace?   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, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

20 Feb 202418min

BREAKING NEWS: The Sentencing Of Jodi Hildebrandt

BREAKING NEWS: The Sentencing Of Jodi Hildebrandt

Could a mother and her mentor, once trusted with the care and guidance of children, be responsible for their abuse? This troubling question has been answered in the case of Ruby Franke, a parenting YouTuber, and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt. Both women have been sentenced to four consecutive prison terms each, following guilty pleas to child abuse charges. The case came to light after one of Franke's children fled Hildebrandt's residence in August, seeking help from a neighbor. Franke, known for her "8 Passengers" YouTube channel, and Hildebrandt, who ran ConneXions Classroom, faced six counts of aggravated child abuse, with each count carrying a possible prison term of one to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000. During sentencing, state prosecutor Eric Clarke likened the environment Franke's children endured to a "concentration camp-like setting," describing Franke's actions as "horrible acts of child abuse." Clarke also labeled Hildebrandt a "significant threat" to the community. In court, Franke acknowledged her guilt and expressed gratitude to the officials who rescued her children. She agreed to testify against Hildebrandt as part of her plea deal. Hildebrandt's plea agreement revealed her awareness and participation in the abuse. Disturbingly, it included forcing Franke's daughter to repeatedly jump into a cactus and detailed other heinous acts of torture. Franke's family, including her husband Kevin Franke, who has filed for divorce, has been left to grapple with the aftermath. Kevin's lawyer stated his focus on keeping the children together and under his care. In a recent court appearance, Ruby Franke apologized to her former husband, calling the end of their marriage a "tragedy." Statements from Franke's family, including her brother Beau Griffiths, suggest Hildebrandt's manipulative influence over Franke. Griffiths, himself a former participant in Hildebrandt's program, accused Hildebrandt of brainwashing his sister. The sentencing marks the end of a harrowing chapter for the Franke family and raises serious questions about the influence and responsibility of those in positions of trust. As Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt face the consequences of their actions, one wonders: How did such a trusted figure in parenting guidance fall so far from grace?   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, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

20 Feb 202412min

Will Ruby Franke's Letter Of Blame, Help Or Hurt Her At Sentencing? -WEEK IN REVIEW

Will Ruby Franke's Letter Of Blame, Help Or Hurt Her At Sentencing? -WEEK IN REVIEW

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.  Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. 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

7 Jan 202412min

Defense Attorney Bob Motta Breaks Down The Torture That Ruby Franke Inflicted On Her Children-WEEK IN REVIEW

Defense Attorney Bob Motta Breaks Down The Torture That Ruby Franke Inflicted On Her Children-WEEK IN REVIEW

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.  Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. 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

7 Jan 20248min

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