Inside The House Of Ruby Franke As Her Daughter Shares The Horror Story
Malevolent Mormon Mommys | The Case Against Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt8 Jan

Inside The House Of Ruby Franke As Her Daughter Shares The Horror Story

Shari Franke’s memoir, The House of My Mother: A Daughter’s Quest for Freedom, begins with a striking and unforgettable image: the moment police forced open the front door of her family’s home with a battering ram. Shari, the eldest daughter of the once-popular family vloggers behind the 8 Passengers YouTube channel, captured the moment on her phone and shared it on Instagram, writing, “This moment, this climax of my family’s descent into madness, needed to be documented, preserved, and shared on social media.” It was an act of reclamation—an attempt to wrest back control of her narrative from a life shaped by forced smiles and staged perfection. Today, with the release of her memoir through Gallery Books, Shari pulls back the curtain on the tabloid nightmare her family became.
Ruby Franke, Shari’s mother and the matriarch of the 8 Passengers channel, was arrested in 2023 along with her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt. The two women were charged with multiple counts of aggravated child abuse after Shari’s younger brother escaped from Hildebrandt’s home and begged a neighbor for help. The boy, visibly malnourished and injured, revealed a harrowing story of being tied up with ropes and deprived of food. Inside Hildebrandt’s home, police discovered Shari’s younger sister in a similarly emaciated and injured state. The public’s collective gasp over these revelations was only the beginning. In The House of My Mother, Shari details how the Franke family’s carefully curated image of wholesomeness and faith unraveled behind the scenes, exposing the dark underbelly of a household where control, manipulation, and emotional abuse reigned.

Before the arrests, the Frankes had amassed nearly 2.5 million subscribers on YouTube, drawn to their idyllic portrayal of life as a large Mormon family. But Shari’s memoir reveals a far different reality. The transformation, she writes, began when Hildebrandt, a counselor with controversial methods, entered their lives. Hildebrandt’s influence over Ruby grew rapidly, shifting the family dynamics in alarming ways. “She was our family’s very own cult leader,” Shari writes. “She turned my mother into a fawning, starstruck acolyte who lapped up her every demented word like it was holy water.” Kevin Franke, Ruby’s husband and Shari’s father, was gradually pushed out of the household. According to Shari, Hildebrandt became the puppet master, dictating the family’s every move under the guise of therapy and spiritual guidance.

In a particularly disturbing episode, Hildebrandt took over Shari’s bedroom, filling it with candles and massage oils. Shari’s suspicions about a deeper relationship between her mother and Hildebrandt were confirmed one night when she saw Ruby sneaking out of her former room. “It was equal parts fascinating and horrific,” Shari recalls. “Two women who publicly condemned queerness in their ConneXions Classroom videos, while embodying it privately.” Hildebrandt’s teachings, presented as strict moral guidelines, included extreme punishments and bizarre rituals. Shari writes that these teachings justified the alienation of Kevin, who was sent away to “work on his shortcomings” while the children’s welfare deteriorated.

The memoir’s most heart-wrenching moments recount Shari’s growing concern for her siblings. Isolated from her family while attending Brigham Young University, Shari made repeated calls to the Department of Child and Family Services, desperate to have someone intervene. But it wasn’t until her brother’s dramatic escape that authorities finally acted. Ruby and Hildebrandt’s subsequent arrest and guilty pleas to four counts of aggravated child abuse brought an end to their reign of terror. Each woman was sentenced to four to thirty years in prison—a grim chapter in a story that continues to haunt the public consciousness.

Shari, now 21, has emerged as an advocate against the exploitation of children in family vlogging. Her experiences growing up in front of a camera have shaped her into a vocal critic of the practice, which she believes inherently violates children’s privacy and well-being. In her memoir and public statements, Shari argues there is no ethical way to monetize a child’s life online. “Making money off your kids with no oversight as to how much the kids are getting paid—there’s no way to do that well,” she asserts. Shari has taken her advocacy to the legislative level, supporting bills that protect underage influencers by guaranteeing them a share of their earnings. “It should be 100 percent,” she insists, though she adds that even financial compensation cannot undo the psychological damage inflicted by growing up with one’s life broadcast to millions.

The memoir also sheds light on Shari’s personal struggles, from suicidal ideation to a damaging relationship with a married church elder. She writes candidly about feeling unloved as a child and grappling with the immense pressure to perform for the camera. Her journals and old family vlogs, which she reviewed while writing the book, offer a painful juxtaposition: moments of apparent happiness on screen contrasted with behind-the-scenes misery. “It felt like it wasn’t my life,” Shari reflects. “The vlogs show smiling faces, but all I remember is the yelling between takes.”

Shari’s relationship with her father has begun to heal in the wake of the arrests. Kevin Franke, who describes his “invitation to leave” the family as “a hellish and abusive experience,” has acknowledged his role in the family’s exploitation. Shari appreciates his willingness to take responsibility, even as she remains critical of his past inaction. Her relationship with Ruby, however, is irreparable. In a letter sent from prison, Ruby reminisced about Shari’s childhood but failed to address the abuse. Shari’s response was resolute: “I don’t feel an emotional tie to her anymore.”

With the release of The House of My Mother, Shari hopes to close a painful chapter of her life while advocating for change. She’s on track to graduate from BYU with a degree in political science and plans to work in data analytics—far from the spotlight she once lived under. Her engagement, announced on Instagram, marks a new beginning. Yet, Shari’s mission to protect children from the harms of family vlogging continues. “I hope that by sharing my story, other child influencers will see that their voices matter,” she writes. “And that it’s worth whatever bridges they might burn.”

Shari’s memoir serves as both a personal catharsis and a rallying cry against a billion-dollar industry that thrives on the commodification of childhood. The question remains: will her story be the wake-up call needed to spark meaningful change, or will the cycle of exploitation continue? The public, it seems, is just beginning to reckon with the consequences of a life lived online.
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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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