IndoctriNation6 Aug 2025

Forager: Field Notes for Surviving a Family Cult with Michelle Dowd

In this episode of IndoctriNation, host Rachel Bernstein talks with Michelle Dowd, author of 'Forager: Field Notes for Surviving a Family Cult.’ Michelle recounts her upbringing in an apocalyptic cult led by her grandfather, her struggles with an autoimmune disease, and her eventual escape and journey to independence. Through these experiences, Michelle examines the intense psychological challenges of leaving a controlling environment, the process of reclaiming her identity, and the importance of developing personal connections and emotional self-awareness. She also discusses her work in helping others heal and reconnect with themselves and nature. This poignant episode sheds light on the complexities of breaking free from indoctrinated systems and finding personal liberation.

Buy Michelle’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Forager-Field-Surviving-Family-Memoir/dp/1643755773/ref=sr_1_1

Michelle’s Substack: https://mdowd.substack.com/subscribe

Michelle’s Website: https://www.michelledowd.org/

Connect with us on social media:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indoctrination⁠⁠

Watch full video episodes of IndoctriNation here:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNAi0T2hzH9dM029dkTfj635PzuXl67jS⁠⁠

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https://www.patreon.com/indoctrination⁠

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https://www.paypal.biz/indoctriNATION

Download Rachel’s Video Lectures and Webinars here:

https://rachelbernsteintherapy.com/videos.html

IndoctriNation is edited by The Podcast Consultant:

⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com/about

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