E12 Squirrels and other connections between Scientology and Landmark with guest Chris Shelton

Chris Shelton MSc, Scientology survivor and coercive control expert joined us as guest this week. We had fun exploring the similarities between Scientology and Landmark Worldwide, two organizations that are known for their controversial practices and being accused of cult-like behavior. Similarities such as the cult-ish personalities around the founders, L. Ron Hubbard and Werner Erhard, and the lack of accountability of such leaders. We also talked about the tactics used like emotional manipulation, the suppression of questioning, the power of social proof and the manipulation of beliefs. PLUS the influence of other cult leaders on Landmark and Scientology is undeniable. We compared the practices and beliefs of Landmark and Scientology. Landmark focuses on transformative learning and removing barriers to self-expression, while Scientology believes in the spiritual nature of humans and aims to remove past life trauma. Anything for a tax write off?! The goal of Landmark is to “transform the being of human being” and Scientology is to “clear” the planet. What’s the difference? Still searching. We discovered more similarities, such as the concept of recreation where individuals are trained to fully understand and duplicate another person's communication and the control mechanisms used in communication exercises in general. Well, Werner does acknowledge L. Ron in his authorized biography. Chris didn’t have any first hand knowledge of the supposed Scientology conspiracy to discredit Werner, beyond his being labeled a squirrel 🐿of course. He did give us some insider history of Scientology's infiltration operations into the IRS and political organizations for the purpose of influencing on a larger scale. Finally the conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of recognizing and educating ourselves about manipulative tactics in order to protect our autonomy and rights. LINKS & RESOURCES Check out Chris’s Podcast/Show Speaking of Cults https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF326xyA0QHI7Z5xAwKQDJg Get Anne’s Book https://a.co/d/7uoGYRs Looking for understanding and support check out the Recovery Group w/ Rachel Bernstein https://ilumn8.life/op/lgat-recovery-group/ The purpose is to create a compassionate and supportive space where people can recover, heal, grow and reclaim their lives and autonomy. LINKS & RESOURCES Check out Chris’s Podcast/Show Speaking of Cults https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF326xyA0QHI7Z5xAwKQDJg Get Anne’s Book https://a.co/d/7uoGYRs The Heathy Healing and Recovery Group w/ Rachel Bernstein The purpose is to create a compassionate and supportive space where people can recover, heal, grow and reclaim their lives and autonomy. https://ilumn8.life/op/lgat-recovery-group/ MODERATION NOTE: While healthy debate and discussion regarding the topics being discussed is encouraged, personal (ad hominem) attacks on people, places or things will be deleted. FINALLY Please consider supporting this channel and helping me to offer more and better content and resources such as the healing group w/ Rachel. Contributing to supports the learning and healing needs of folks waking up to and leaving high demand and cult(ish) groups. https://ilumn8.givingfuel.com/ilumn8giving