Podcasts about gloriavale

Today our Cult Chat hosts share what listeners have told them are the best things about life after leaving a cult. From finding space to be who you truly are, to getting the chance to make mistakes, and to being allowed to have the full range of human emotions, this episode digs right down into the wonderful things that leavers can experience once they set out on their new post-cult lives. Be prepared to be moved to tears in this hopeful episode about what you might find on the other side.Show notesWebsite: The Religious Trauma Collective Annual Event - 19-21 June, web-based conferenceWebsite Inquiry into the recruitment methods and impacts of cults and organised fringe groups - Parliament of VictoriaWebsite: DecultBook: Take Back Your Life - Janja LalichSong: What a Wonderful World - Louis ArmstrongResource: Thinking of Leaving - Olive Leaf NetworkArticle: 10 Reasons People Should Leave GloriavaleArticle: 10 Reasons People Remain at Gloriavale

'Put your trust in Jesus because he will lead you. Let go of everything else and God will be there'. Gloriana Pilgrim was born and raised in the conservative Christian community Gloriavale, based in Haupiri on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Almost 5 years ago, Gloriana and her family left Gloriavale to begin a brand-new life. Gloriana shares of this life changing journey and the certainty she came to, of knowing God was with her every step and every decision. Currently at time of recording this podcast you can see the documentary about Gloriana, and her family called “Leaving Gloriavale” on Shine TV. https://www.shinetv.co.nz/ Gloriana is also a talented artist, and you can view her artwork below. Gloriana Pilgrim (@gloriana_pilgrim) • Instagram photos and videos Support Sanctuary Radio: https://donate.rhemamedia.co.nz/?brand=sanctuarySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a rough ride on Eavesdroppin' comedy podcast this week, as Geordie and Michelle look at bad cults… If you were a child with scholastic issues or behavioural problems in the early 1980s in the UK, you might have been sent to a Red House alternative education facility. The brochures told of an idyllic boarding school where children who had suffered abuse or neglect at home could thrive in an environment where sailing and horse riding were interspersed with reading, writing and arithmetic. The reality was that the Red House schools were institutions where children were regularly beaten, humiliated, sexually abused and forced into slave labour. Listen now for Geordie's deep dive into Red House schools, the Danish founding organisation Tvind and a discussion about why it was a cult hiding in plain sight... Michelle follows with a look at a harrowing New Zealand cult called Gloriavale. Tucked away on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island is a religious group that was meant to be a spiritual utopia - the men worked, the women raised kids and everyone lived by the word of god and shared the spoils of communal labour. On paper, Gloriavale sounds like a dream - but it's a cult, where men are in control and women are trained to submit, serve and stay silent. Who started this cult? How is it off the international radar? And is the cult still going now? Listen to find out.So pop on your headphones, grab a brown lemonade and join Geordie & Michelle for this week's episode, plus chit-chat about Steiner Schools, Geordie's celeb Young Ones moment, Michelle's celeb encounter with a top pop star at LAX, a guardian angel encounter from Eavesdropper Steph, plus a near miss love triangle with a Hollywood A-Lister from Eavesdropper Roxanne and more, only on Eavesdroppin' podcast. And remember, wherever you are, whatever you do, just keep Eavesdroppin'! *Disclaimer: We don't claim to have any factual info about anything ever and our opinions are just opinions not fact, sooorrrryyy! Don't sue us! Please rate, review, tell your friends and subscribe in all the usual places – we love it when you do! Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/eavesdroppinDo write in with your stories at hello@eavesdroppinpodcast.com or send us a Voice Note!Listen: www.eavesdroppinpodcast.com or https://podfollow.com/eavesdroppinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcuzv-EXizUo4emmt9PgfwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/eavesdroppinpodcast#cults #gloriavale #redhouse #schoolcult #steiner #reallife #newzealand #eavesdroppin #eavesdroppinpodcast #eavesdroppincomedypodcast #podcast #comedy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gloriavale leaders have refused to deliver a personal apology to a former member for abuse at the Christian community, despite publicly offering to say sorry to victims who ask for one. Leavers say that's exposed their pledge as a PR stunt, as Jean Edwards reports.

Theophila Pratt, author of “Unveiled - A Story of Surviving Gloriavale” joins the team for our first of three episodes about leaving cults. This compelling conversation explores the immediate  challenges, discusses identity construction, and the difficulties of finding people to help along the way. Theo and our hosts explore these topics and more, with a focus on those born and raised in a cult, inviting those thinking of leaving to sit up and listen.LinksWebsite: Theo's website where you can buy her bookBook: Unfollow by Megan Phelps-RoperBook: Excommunicated by Craig HoyleWebsite: NZ Community Growth Trust therapy fund - For information about funded therapy for survivors of cults in NZEvent: Religious Trauma Collective - Annual event - to find out about the June 19-21 2025 eventEvent: Decult Fund & Film night - June 13 2025 eventResource: Olive Leaf Network - Thinking of Leaving? booklet

In this episode of Untidy, Matilda and Hannah speak with Theophila Pratt, a Gloriavale cult survivor, qualified paediatric occupational therapist, author, and fierce advocate for freedom and healing. Theo, formerly known as Honey Faithful, grew up in Gloriavale, an isolated and highly controlled Christian community on the West Coast. At 18, she was cast out after challenging the regime, with nothing but a suitcase, a ticket to Auckland, and little understanding of how the outside world worked.TRIGGER WARNING: This episode includes discussion of religious trauma, psychological abuse, coercive control, childhood neglect, and sexual abuse. While we approach these topics with care and sensitivity, some content may be distressing for listeners. Please take care while listening and prioritise your wellbeing. Theo shares what life inside Gloriavale was really like — from the oppressive rules that haunted every moment, to the calculated psychological control that deprived people of their individual identities, especially for girls and women. Theo talks about the subtle acts of rebellion that sparked her path to freedom, what it took to start again from scratch, and how she’s now helping others do the same. Theo reflects on trauma, therapy, rage, spirituality, and walking a determined road to self-trust and reclaiming her voice and identity. Her memoir, ‘Unveiled: A Story of Surviving Gloriavale’ exposes the realities of life inside the cult and offers hope to those seeking freedom from high-control environments. Links as mentioned in the show: Buy Unveiled by Theophila Pratt from https://www.theopratt.com/ Gloriavale Leavers’ Trust: https://gloriavaleleavers.org.nz/ Follow Theo on Instagram @lifeischoicenz Watch TVNZ documentary, Escaping Utopia If you’re enjoying Untidy, the best way to show your support is by tapping the ‘+ follow’ button in your podcast app and subscribing on YouTube! That way, fresh episodes will always be ready and waiting for you. Help us to keep building this supportive community — share an episode with a mate, and chuck us a 5-star review — it helps more people find our Untidy, unfiltered, and relatable chats. Thank you for listening, contributing and supporting this independent production! We’re grateful to have you here! — Hannah & Matty xx Don’t forget! Untidy is made for YOU — the people right at the heart of this steaming hot mess! Follow the show and DM us on Instagram @untidypodcast or email hello@untidypodcast.com. Your stories and ideas to help shape the show! Find us online at Untidy podcast. Find Matilda at @matootles and get your copy of The Feel Good Guide. Find Hannah at @hannahedavison and her My Big Moments children’s books at @mybigmoments. Enter code UNTIDY at checkout for 10% off your order.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a lot going on in the cultiverse! We thought it time for an update on the culty happenings in our neck of the woods. In this episode you'll hear more than you want to know about chickens, rats, and mice, and heaps about cults. From news from the Olive Leaf Network, to Caz's connections with professionals & researchers, to Liz sharing culty tree metaphors with professionals on the West Coast. This episode has everything, including some really odd census data about Gloriavale!Show notes:Webpage: Olive Leaf Network and how to donateWebpage: International Cultic Studies Association home page and Montreal annual conference  Podcast: Cult Chat Episode 58: 2x2s and Survivor Advocacy with Tristan Phipps and Kyle EggletonPodcast: Cult Chat Episode 55, 56 and 57 - Are the Jehovah Witnesses a Cult? (Parts one and two) and Waking Up  - with Dr Andre JacksonArticle: One News coverage of Two By TwosArticle: Inquiry into cults prompted by media attention on Geelong Revival Centre in Victoria. Facebook group: Stop Religious Coercion Australia run by Ryan CareyPodcast: Secrets We Keep - Pray Harder - series about Geelong Revival CentreArticle: BBC - Japan court dissolves controversial 'Moonies' churchArticle - The Saints cult and the convictions for the manslaughter of 8 years old Elizabeth Struhs - BrisbaneReligious Trauma Collective and the on-line conferenceWebpage: Theophila Pratt - Unveiled - A Story of Surviving GloriavaleArticle: Press -  Gloriavale population falls while 100 babies born, census shows

Dream State by Eric Puchner. This book starts with the lead up to a wedding, after which the bride makes a momentous decision which then ripples through the lives of her husband, his best friend and the future generations. It's a story about the consequences of the decisions we make, and the subsequent joy, regret and pain which can linger for a lifetime and which help turn us into the people we become, for better or for worse. This is wonderful storytelling. Unveiled by Theophila Pratt. The author was born into the Gloriavale community, with the given name Honey Faithful. She was one of nine siblings and knew from the age of 14 that she wanted more from life – which eventually included being able to change her name. At the age of 18 she refused to sign the Gloriavale Declaration of Commitment and was subsequently evicted. Life in that community has been well documented in other places, but Theophila's story is a timely (and fascinating) reminder of the cult that still exists on the West Coast, and which now has an outpost in India of which her sister was a founding member. This is also the story of a courageous young woman finding her own voice. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Paula's guest is Theophila Pratt. Born Honey Faithful in the Christian community of Gloriavale, Theophila never fit in, changing her name at 16 and eventually leaving at 18. She has shared her story in a new book, Unveiled, in hope it will help the women in Gloriavale and bring those in power to account.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A coroner has found that a young Gloriavale man's death was the result of an accident after experimenting with blacking out. Reporter Anna Sargent spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

At 18, after a life of servitude and subserviance, Theophila Pratt was dropped at a bus stop and left to fend for herself. She tells her story of surviving Gloriavale  

Ian and Hannah review the biggest new films and bingeable shows on UK streaming services for the week beginning Friday 21st February 2025, including:Robert De Niro is a former U.S. President called out of retirement to find the source of a deadly cyberattack, only to discover a vast web of lies and conspiracies in Netflix original series Zero Day.Two best friends from Jamaica fight for survival in the violent melting pot of Victorian London's East End. Stephen Graham and Malachi Kirby star in Disney Plus' A Thousand BlowsAlan Ritchson reprises his role in season three of Prime Video's popular action series Reacher.A journalist recounts her fight to break free from infamous New Zealand Christian cult Gloriavale in BBC documentary Escaping Utopia.Follow Bingewatch on all major podcast players for your weekly rundown of the best binge-worthy shows across Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and more.Remember to leave a 5 star review on Apple Podcasts, Podchaser and Goodpods AND you can now show your support and leave a tip for Ian and Hannah.You can also stay in touch with the team via Twitter AND if you like Bingewatch but you're looking for a specific review, check out BITESIZE BINGEWATCH, our sister show making it easier to get the bits you want!If you're a brand interested in sponsorship or collabs, email hello@podcastsbyliam.com and chat to us now!

What is happening at Gloriavale? Join Liz and two of the lawyers representing Gloriavale Leavers, Steve Patterson and Dennis Gates, as they give a comprehensive update on the long and arduous road to justice and holding the Gloriavale leaders to account.The chat about the highlights and lowlights of 2024, and discuss the many investigations and court cases that are ongoing. They reveal some new actions that will get underway in 2025, and talk about a legal bill ordered by the courts that they don't want to pay. They chat about the Royal Commission of Inquiry into historic Abuse in Care and the recent apology Gloriavale made. Was it genuine? And what's happening with their Charity Status, the School, India and the Police Slavery investigation?This episode is not to be missed.

Former members of the Gloriavale Christian Community are coming to terms with an apology for delivered to those who suffered "pain and suffering" at the commune. Gloriavale leaver John Ready spoke to Paddy Gower.

A Gloriavale leaver has outlined his 'livid' reaction to yesterday's apology from community leader Howard Temple. The Royal Commission of Inquiry requested an apology, after establishing a pattern of abuse. Temple thanked those who'd reported it - and accepted the Commission's Safety of Care recommendation. But former member John Ready says the apology was insincere - and shows a complete lack of understanding of the damage caused. "The timestamp - 1950 to 1999 - leaves out the majority of the abuse from 2000." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SPECIAL: Guy, Sharyn & Clint reunite for one last time on Sharyn's last day at The Edge! They reminisce about some great times - Like when Guy pranked Gloriavale or when Producer Chang was their Dad! Enjoy listening to the best of the best for the last time x

A significant decision from the Court of Appeal could see Gloriavale shut down its' operations for good. The court has thrown out an injunction that prevented BNZ from closing the West Coast Christian community's accounts. BNZ attempted to stop doing business with Gloriavale in 2022, after the community's child labour usage breached its human rights policy. NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny unpacks the wider implications of this verdict. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 The Court of Appeal has disposed of an injunction preventing the bank from closing accounts related to Gloriavale's various businesses and entities. Gloriavale now has three months to tidy up its affairs with BNZ. After that, members have said that without bank accounts, the continued existence of the community will be at risk. Anna Sargent reports.

The legal expert leading the team representing Gloriavale leavers is calling on the Government to act now and protect the victims of the community. BNZ has been given clearance to close Gloriavale's bank accounts after the Employment Court found a number of former members had worked since the age of six - with many subjected to physical punishment. Lawyer Brian Henry says the residents of the community need to be freed from the 'tyranny' of the leaders and given a new start in society. "There are people inside there who need to be freed from the tyranny of what's going on there and re-set up in society where they get a decent education for their children - and they have the opportunity to live life as free people." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday a long running court case came to an end – at least for now. BNZ has won permission to shut down Gloriavale's bank accounts. Now I actually feel quite uncomfortable about this. I'm no fan of Gloriavale – I'd like to see the place close and the people there realise how weird their situation is. So I should, on the face of it, like what BNZ is doing because it will effectively, probably, shut down Gloriavale. Because without a bank, how can Gloriavale continue? No one else will bank them – they've tried, no other bank will take them. This is why they took the court case, to try to force BNZ to keep their bank accounts open, because without it, they basically can't do business anymore. They can't do anything really, because in a modern world you can't survive without a bank account. It's how you get paid, how you pay your power bills, how you get a mortgage to buy a house, how you order things from overseas. But I still don't think this is the right thing, because of the precedent this sets. Banks can shut your account if they don't like what you're doing —doesn't have to be criminal— and there's too much of this moral policing already. Australian banks here are imposing penalties on our dairy farmers who they don't think are cutting emissions by enough. Kiwibank's pledged to stop banking coal mining businesses. BNZ won't let a couple of women running a sex toy shop open bank accounts because they sell sex toys. There is a massive debunking scandal playing out in the US where even Melania Trump reckons her account was shut down after the Jan 6th riots. And to be fair to banks, it's not as if this is new. Remember they wouldn't let women take out mortgages unless a male relative said it was okay as recently as the 1980s. I get that it's a bank's right to stop doing business with whoever it wants to, I just don't like the bank's reason. Because if it's Gloriavale today, a couple of girls selling sex toys tomorrow, who comes next? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Employment Court has ordered Gloriavale's leader to pay six former members more than $274,000 in legal costs. Barrister Brian Henry spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

BNZ is set to head back to court tomorrow as part of their ongoing legal dispute with Gloriavale. If the hearing goes well, the bank could get approval to close the accounts Gloriavale has with BNZ. NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny reveals what could come out of tomorrow's case. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gloriavale leavers and their advocates have condemned what they say is 30 years of inaction by bureaucrats and politicians. Jean Edwards reports.

Gloriavale leavers and their advocates have condemned what they say is 30 years of inaction by bureaucrats and politicians. Jean Edwards reports.

In this special episode of the Decult Takeover Series, I'm joined by Liz Gregory, the founder of the Gloriavale Leavers' Support Trust, who plays a crucial role in helping survivors of the notorious Gloriavale Christian Community in New Zealand. Liz and her work are featured in the new film Escaping Utopia, and in this interview, she delves deep into the challenges faced by those who manage to escape this multi-generational cult compound located on New Zealand's South Island. Gloriavale has been cloaked in secrecy and coercive control for decades, with a strong grip on its members' lives. Liz Gregory's support network offers vital assistance to these individuals as they transition from an oppressive, closed community to life in the outside world.Liz discusses the spiritual abuse that occurs when faith is weaponized against people, the psychological impacts of cult control, and the urgent need to upskill mental health professionals, including psychologists and therapists, to better support cult survivors. Her mission to assist Gloriavale leavers and other survivors of high-control groups is crucial to their recovery and well-being.Liz will be speaking at the upcoming Decult Cult Awareness Conference in Christchurch on October 19th & 20th, where she will address the unique needs of former cult members and the role that mental health care workers can play in helping them heal. Her organization, the Gloriavale Leavers' Support Trust, continues to raise awareness about the Gloriavale cult and provide resources to those in need, making her a pivotal figure in cult recovery efforts in New Zealand.This interview is a must-watch for anyone interested in cult survivors' stories, abusive relationships, and spiritual awakening. It's also an essential resource for professionals in psychology, therapy, and social work who want to learn more about the tools needed to effectively support people recovering from cult dynamics.If you're interested in learning more about Liz Gregory's incredible work and hearing her presentation live, get your tickets for the Decult Cult Awareness Conference now!Get your live stream tickets here:https://events.humanitix.com/decult-cult-awareness-conference-ticketsDon't miss out on this important conversation with Liz Gregory, as well as other vital voices in the fight for cult awareness and recovery. This Christchurch event is not just a conference but a call to action for all those interested in life after a cult and the recovery process.#DecultConference #LizGregory #Gloriavale #GloriavaleLeavers #GloriavaleCult #GloriavaleNZ #EscapingUtopia #CultAwareness #GloriavaleChristianCommunity #CultRecovery #LifeAfterACult #SpiritualAbuse #MentalHealthCare #SupportSurvivors #ChristchurchEvent2024 #NZCults #AbusiveRelationships #SpiritualityAwakening #ExJWSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Join us for an illuminating episode of our Decult Takeover series in support of the Decult Cult Awareness Conference! We're honored to have Doctor Caroline Ansley, a Christchurch, New Zealand-based medical doctor and co-host of the Cult Chat Podcast, as our special guest. Dr. Ansley is the visionary founder of the Centrepoint Restoration Project and a child survivor of the infamous Centrepoint cult. She has dedicated her life to supporting former cult members and their families through her work, community, and website.Get your Decult Livestream ticket here: https://events.humanitix.com/decult-cult-awareness-conference-ticketsIn this powerful interview, we dive into Dr. Ansley's personal journey, exploring how her childhood experiences within a cult led her to become a leading figure in cult recovery and advocacy. As a speaker at the Decult Cult Awareness Conference, she brings a unique medical perspective on the trauma faced by cult survivors and why it's crucial to provide specialized care and understanding in their recovery.Key discussion points include:- Dr. Ansley's Background and Activism: Discover how her survival story shaped her life and inspired the creation of the Centrepoint Restoration Project, a community offering support to former cult members in New Zealand.- Medical Perspective on Cult Recovery: Learn how Dr. Ansley uses her medical expertise to shed light on the mental and physical health challenges faced by those leaving high-control groups.- Decult Cult Awareness Conference: Her involvement in Decult, a critical Christchurch conference for raising awareness about cult-related issues in New Zealand and globally.- Cult Chat Podcast: As host of this engaging cult podcast, Dr. Ansley collaborates with other activists to provide a platform for discussing global cult dynamics, particularly in New Zealand, including groups like Gloriavale and Centrepoint.- New Zealand plays a pivotal role in cult awareness, despite its geographic isolation, and the importance of changing societal perceptions about former cult members.- Support and Resources for Survivors: Dr. Ansley highlights the need for improved therapy, social justice, and community involvement for cult survivors, along with her work to create a network of support through the Centrepoint Restoration Project.Check out Doctor Ansley's Centrepoint Restoration Project:https://www.centrepointrestorationproject.comDecult Cult Awareness Conference:https://decult.net#DoctorCarolineAnsley #CentrepointRestorationProject #CultChatPodcast #CultSurvivor #DecultConference #ChristchurchNewZealand #FormerCultMembers #CultAwareness #CentrepointDocumentary #CultRecovery #CultSurvivorSupport #CultActivismNewZealand #DecultSpeaker#LiveStreamEvent #cultsurvivor #ReligiousFreedom #ExJW #cultawareness #ReligiousInvestigations  #excult #excultmember #supportsurvivors #ōtautahi #newzealand #aotearoa #christchurch #savethedate #CultAwareness #cult #decult2024 #EmotionalAbuse #Shunning #DeSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter for weekly episodes: https://bit.ly/WitnessUndergroundWatch now:http://WitnessUnderground.comhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100018684/witness-undergroundhttps://vimeo.com/ondemand/witnessundergroundSupport:https://Patreon.com/WitnessUndergroundhttps://YouTube.com/@WitnessUndergroundReach out directly: XJWdoc@gmail.com-Scott

Lilia Tarawa was brought up in the Gloriavale Christian Community on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, where she was constantly surrounded by everyone she loved. But over time, she began to see the dark side of her community, and ultimately realised that she had to get out. In this raw and emotional talk, Lilia shares the reality of life in a cult, and her heart-wrenching journey to break free. Lilia Tarawa is a New Zealand writer, speaker, holistic health consultant and business coach. She is a member of the Māori Ngāi Tahu tribe. Lilia was born into New Zealand's infamous religious cult, Gloriavale, and fled with her eleven family members at eighteen years of age. Her extraordinary life experience compelled her to pursue a career promoting human rights, welfare and empowerment. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/getu-chandler/support

Today on the show... It's Friday, which means its time to talk Sports with Mediaworks' news boss Gary Denvir… and the All Blacks' 30 year insane record at Eden park comes into sharp focus. 1994 was the last time they lost  and Argentina now face a stern challenge after dismantling the ABs last weekend in Wellington. From Centrepoint to Gloriavale, some of our most notorious cults will be in the spotlight at ‘Decult' - Australasia's first cult awareness conference, taking place in Christchurch later this year. Experts and survivors will share their stories of life inside these cults and their journey after leaving them. We speak to the investigative journalist and author behind it all - Anke Richter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just Standfast was sentenced to four years imprisonment for the offending that took place over a 40 year period inside the secretive Christchurch community. Adam Burns was at the Greymouth District Court, and a warning some of the details in his report are distressing.

The Royal Commission into Abuse in Care has urged the government to do everything it can to ensure the safety of Gloriavale members and their children. The inquiry found Gloriavale's Overseeing Shepherd and senior leaders at fault for allowing physical and sexual abuse at the West Coast Christian community, reporter Jean Edwards speaks to Susana Lei'ataua.

At faith-based institutions sexual, physical, psychological and spiritual abuse was pervasive over decades. This includes but may not be limited to Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian, Jehovah Witness and Salvation Army organisations and at Gloriavale. The Anglican church has apologised and admitted it failed to properly respond and investigate the abuse. Archbishop Philip Richardson joins us now.

Gloriavale and five government agencies are facing a multi-million-dollar class action lawsuit brought by former members who claim they were held as slaves from birth by the Christian community's leaders. Reporter Jean Edwards spoke to Corin Dann.

Several former Gloriavale workers are planning to sue the Crown for negligence. Members of the group have accused public servants of knowing about the slave labour within the community - and refusing to do anything about it. Lawyer Brian Henry says these public servants knew about the witnesses who were interviewed and the allegations. "You just don't go to the potential criminal and say - did you steal that? And if he says no, he'll walk away. You actually go evaluate the evidence and look around further." LISTEN ABOVE    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gloriavale has taken a knock in its battle to maintain access to banking services. BNZ has been trying to close Gloriavale's accounts for the last two years, and the Court of Appeal is allowing BNZ to challenge that injunction. NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny explains what comes next in this case. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lianna MacFarlane, a gloriavale leaver speaks to Lisa Owen about coming second in an iconic national pie making contest after starting out as a cleaner in a Timaru baker and working her way up the night manager's job.

Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered how a fresh perspective could change your life? Meet Ruth Iren Holand, a 59-year-old Norwegian singer whose journey of personal growth and creativity has led her to create the inspirational musical piece "Land of Hope." Her story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to chase your dreams. We'll explore Ruth's transformative experiences and how her relentless pursuit of a loving and merciful understanding of God paved the way for her musical achievements.Our conversation takes a darker turn as we dive into the grim realities of life inside the Gloriavale cult in New Zealand. Founded by Neville Cooper, later known as Hopeful Christian, this closed community evolved from an idyllic-looking commune into a highly controlled cult. Through personal testimonies like that of Theophila Pratt, who bravely escaped in 2016, we reveal the severe psychological and physical control members endured. By juxtaposing these harrowing stories with Ruth's own experiences with negative religious groups, we provide a broader context for the impact of extreme beliefs on personal freedom.We circle back to Ruth's uplifting journey, focusing on the creation of her album "Land of Hope." Inspired by a life-altering dream and supported by Swedish composer Carl Mikael Bergerheim, Ruth collaborated with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra to bring her vision to life. Her music, transcending cultural boundaries with translations into languages like Chinese, Arabic, and Swahili, showcases the universal power of hope and healing. Join us for this compelling episode that underscores the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless reach of a hopeful heart. Just Access PodcastYour go-to listen for fascinating interviews and discussions about human rights todayListen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the Show.Follow my PatreonSupport my content at Buy me a Coffee:

Miniserie de TV (2024-). Serie documental que indaga en la secta religiosa más extrema de Nueva Zelanda, Gloriavale, y en las historias reales de personas que intentan liberarse, así como secretos de la misma que nunca antes habían salido a la luz. (FILMAFFINITY)

Rosie Overcomer was born and raised in Gloriavale. She left 11 years ago at the age of 26 with her husband Elijah and their 3 young children.Since then, they have had three more children and life looks very different to how it did a decade ago- we talk about these adjustments to life outside. Including getting her first haircut, celebrating a birthday for the first time at 28, and the liberating moment she wore jeans for the first time.I found Rosie's story compelling, and I hope you guys do as well (quick apology for the sound issues towards the end- there were some tradies outside with a water blaster LOL).****These conversations would not be possible without the backing of the legends at Generate and Radix.Generate are award-winning KiwiSaver specialists. If you've never got KiwiSaver advice before, visit this link to request a no-obligation chat with one of their advisers:https://www.generatewealth.co.nz/domA copy of their product disclosure statement is available on their website. The issuer of the scheme is Generate Investment Management Limited and of course past performance does not guarantee future returns.****I can genuinely say the podcast would not be where it is right now without Radix Nutrition. These guys reached out to me over 18 months ago to talk about podcast sponsorship at a time when podcast sponsorship was not yet a thing in NZ. And they have been on board ever since.This sort of innovation they have with their marketing is the exact same innovation they apply to their products.The team at Radix HQ in the Waikato do a phenomenal job and every team member, from the top down, want to make YOU healthier through nutrition.If you are yet to see what the hype with Radix is all about, check them out for yourself:https://radixnutrition.co.nz/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.  In this episode, we're joined by international journalist Anke Richter for a conversation about her decade-long investigation into sex cults and her own brush with ISTA, a shamanic ‘school' from the US with a base in New Zealand. Anke's recently published book CULT TRIP covers her labyrinthine investigation into how and why cults attract, entrap and destroy otherwise ordinary people, and asks what the line is between tribe and cult, participant and perpetrator, seduction and sexual abuse. We'll also touch on NZ as a hotspot in the ever-expanding cultiverse, from Centrepoint to Gloriavale - and why Anke's spearheading DECULT 2024, the country's first cult awareness conference. For a small-ish country you have some big cult problems, NZ. Time to get thee to a cult awareness conference! SHOWNOTES: Anke Richter is an international journalist based in Christchurch and the author of the international bestseller "CULT TRIP: Inside the world of coercion and control" (HarperCollins, 2022), as well as three other books published in Germany. Prior to relocating to New Zealand in 2003 via Tokelau in the South Pacific to serve as a foreign correspondent, Anke worked as a reporter in Germany. Her investigative and personal features have been published in various renowned outlets such as Die Zeit, Spiegel, FAZ, taz, mare, New Zealand Geographic, North & South, The Spinoff, Canvas, Sunday (Stuff), Listener, The Fair Observer, among others. Anke has also contributed to several New Zealand documentaries as a researcher and associate producer. As a public speaker, she addresses topics such as cult awareness, coercive control, and identifying red flags in the wellness industry. Anke is a co-founder of FACT Aotearoa (Fight Against Conspiracy Theories), actively involved in combatting misinformation. Additionally, Anke is the founder and director of DECULT 2024, the first cult awareness conference in New Zealand. For more information, please visit her websites: www.ankerichter.net and www.decult.net. DECULT 2024, the first cult conference in the Southern Hemisphere, is happening in Christchurch from 19 – 20 October 2024, and is organised by New Zealand journalist Anke Richter who wrote CULT TRIP. Keynote speaker Dr. Janja Lalich and other experts like Dr. Gillie Jenkinson, filmmakers like Scott Homan (“Witness Underground”) and David Farrier (“Mister Organ”) and authors from around the world will meet with cult survivors, victim advocates and stakeholders in government. It's a unique chance for cult education in a country that has and still has a big cult problem. The two day event with 20+ speakers will be live-streamed. Follow Decult on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Let's decult 2024! Also…Let it be known far and wide, loud and clear that… The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody's mad at you, just don't be a culty fuckwad. Check out our lovely sponsors Join ‘A Little Bit Culty' on Patreon Get poppin' fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TEDTalk   CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Producer: Will Retherford Writer & Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin  

On this episode of Between Two Beers we talk to Jehan Casinader.Jehan Casinader is an award-winning journalist who is now one of New Zealand's most sought-after key note speakers.He worked in primetime TV for more than a decade across roles with Sunday., Seven Sharp, Close Up and Breakfast and was named “Broadcast Reporter of the Year” in 2020.Jehan specialises in reporting on social issues. From gritty investigations to moving human-interest pieces and revealing celebrity profiles – Jehan has done them all. He also produced and hosted TVNZ's first-ever mental health series, The Inside Word. In this episode we talk about writing stories for the Holmes programme at 13, and travelling the world as a journo at 20. The collapse of the NZ media industry, why it happened and what we can learn from it, his night in Gloriavale, Graham Norton, why we have a men's mental health crisis in NZ, and tips for those wanting to build their personal brand. Jehan also shared details of his four-year struggle with depression, and suicidality and how “rewriting” his story helped him to survive. This was an incredibly rich and thought-provoking chat. Jehan is one of NZ's best and most articulate speakers and his messaging is so strong. His message that many Kiwis think their brains are broken, but in fact, it's our stories that are broken – feels very timely right now. You're going to love this one, Jehan is a weapon, and we thoroughly enjoyed this chat. We're also super stoked to have Jehan on the books of B2B Speakers, so if you'd like him to MC your night, or share his story at your function or event, flick us a message by going to http://B2Bspeakers.co.nz . Also check out our epic lineup of former guests available for hire too. And while there sign up to our weekly newsletter with all the biggest news from us and the podcasting space in NZSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intro: Trying to get back into the swing of things.3:30: JR's shoulder recovery- tremendously better8:27: Molly got sick, her parents had surgery, and9:38: Some recent TV Shows and our kids' American history books14:48: JR's other things happening, TV shows he's watching19:04: Molly started Dear Mr. Watterson, Calvin & Hobbes and some interesting facts about that.25:41: Molly gets sucked into a doomsday cult - Gloriavale34:24: What does it mean to say, “I believe it's the Lord's will to X.”40:03: How do you see through lies? Courage to opt out of a system based on fear and control42:00: How young men are lost in America and an example of gross reporting.45:53: Legitimate conviction through Scripture.52:21: Show Close Too Busy to Flush Telegram GroupSend us a PostcardPique Tea - Referral Link (it's super-delicious and healthy)Molly's Favorite Milk Brother (she takes it in the van!)Ledger Hardware Wallet - Referral Link (store your crypto securely!)

RNZ's reporter in Christchurch Tim Brown discusses the latest revelations about Gloriavale, the controversy around SailGP and Hector's dolphins, and the intersection of the economy and environment; and the financial struggles of the Arts Centre.

A leading human rights lawyer says authorities are investigating whether women were trafficked from Gloriavale and entered into forced marriages in India. Last night on TVNZ's docuseries, Escaping Utopia, former Gloriavale members Theophila Pratt and Rosanna Overcomer travelled to India and met with Ms Pratt's sister Precious. The pair were deeply disturbed by what they found and contacted Deborah Manning - a specialist in refugee, immigration and human rights law - and asked her to look into their concerns. Timothy Brown has more

The Gloriavale offshoot in India is home to Kiwi women and children. A former member of the sect says getting them out of there is urgent

A high-profile lawyer is taking the government to court for slow action against abuse at the Christian community of Gloriavale. Barrister Brian Henry has filed proceedings against Oranga Tamariki, the Department of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Social Development and Labour Inspectorate, after sending an explosive letter to the Prime Minister and other ministers calling for the West Coast commune to be shut down. Two multi-agency committees, one launched in 2015 and the other in 2022, have been tasked with monitoring Gloriavale's actions. Brian Henry says the members of those committees have let victims down. Henry spoke to Corin Dann.

A leading lawyer is taking multiple government departments to court for delays in tackling abuse at the Christian Community of Gloriavale. Barrister Brian Henry has filed proceedings against Oranga Tamariki, the Department of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Social Development and Labour Inspectorate, after sending an explosive letter to the Prime Minister and other ministers calling for the West Coast commune to be shut down. Gloriavale Leavers' Support Trust manager Liz Gregory spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

When abuse and lies cause you to lose faith in the strict religious community you were born into, where do you go? This was the dilemma faced by Gloriavale member Rosie Overcomer and her husband 11 years ago. Liz Gregory was one of the people who helped the family make a new life outside the sect, and the needs of others like them led her to set up the Gloriavale Leavers' Support Trust. Both women feature in a new new TVNZ 3-part documentary series Escaping Utopia, which starts at 8.30pm on Sunday 24 March, and continues Monday and Tuesday. It examines the religious sect from all sides. and shows the intricate planning that goes into leaving the West Coast community.

On the show today, Dan has sent a calendar invite to the team. He has organised a singing competition after producer Yas thinks she is the best singer in the team. Clint, Meg and Dan get around some more listener new music. Dan is interested in the new show the highlights the downfall of Gloriavale.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victims of a predator in the Gloriavale Christian community have described him as an opportunist who used the vulnerability of his victims to exploit them. Jonathan Benjamin has been sentenced to 11 years and 10 months in prison for more than 20 charges of sexual offending against children - the youngest only 5 or 6 years old at the time. His offending spans more than three decades from the 1980s and his charges relate to 9 victims at the reclusive community during its time on the West Coast and earlier, when it was based in North Canterbury. Anna Sargent was in court in Greymouth.

Jason Christian was born into Gloriavale — a self-proclaimed utopic Christian community of more than 500 people on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. His grandfather, Hopeful Christian, was the leader. Shut out from the outside world and forced to work on the farm at the age of six, Jason was primed to live a life without actual freedom, as this group of true believers was all he knew. But when it was time for him to marry a woman in the community that was chosen for him, Jason made a different choice.   LINKS Gloriavale documentary: https://www.gloriavale.com/ Follow us: Instagram @wasiinacult Support Us: https://www.patreon.com/wasiinacult Have a story to share on our show? Email us: info@wasiinacult.com — “This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/INACULT and get on your way to being your best self.”