Podcast appearances and mentions of spencer schneider

Today's episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.  If you're not already familiar with the culty cluster known as ‘School',  it was an ultra-secret Manhattan organization run by late actress and forever eccentric Sharon Gans. The shadowy group did its dark magic in the form of secret study groups, arranged marriages, and some pretty gnarly narcissistic abuse. In this episode, former School enrollee Esther Friedman discusses the five years she spent as a student after her study group love bombed her right into its clutches. We also cover how she got out, and how she's healing now by helping other gentle souls navigate a culty, culty world. Empaths, this one's for you. And if you've got Big Valedictorian Energy and are crazy about that extra credit, please note that we've taken our listeners to School before in our episode with the groovy Spencer Schneider who wrote a page-turning memoir about his experience titled Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival. NOTES Esther Friedman is a licensed mental health counselor, expressive art therapist, songwriter, and author. To process and heal, she presents her misadventures as an “edu-tainment campaign.” Her memoir The Gentle Souls Revolution is a PSA/recovery guide/template for anyone who's navigated exploitative relationships. She's also a board member of the newly formed nonprofit “Living Cult Free” and is joined in that endeavor by some cult recovery heavyweights. You can learn more about their work at livingcultfree.com You can find Esther at www.gentlesoulsrevolution.com, Facebook, and Instagram.  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.   OTHER LINKS: 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   CREDITS:  Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Citizens of Sound Producer: Will Retherford Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Writer: Holly Zadra Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin  

In many ways, this theatre troupe and Fourth Way school became the most secretive this podcast has looked into yet. Most members didn't know each other's jobs, marital status, or even surnames. They didn't see each other outside of what they referred to as ‘the work', they didn't know the classes they were going to each week had anything to do with the teachings of Russian philosophers, and they didn't tell anyone outside what it was they were attending two nights each week. Full research sources listed here. You can support us on Patreon or Acast+, with a one-off donation, or grab some merch. Sarah Steel's debut book Do As I Say is available on audiobook now, and you can order Joe Gould's LTAS soundtrack album here.  With thanks to Audio-Technica, presenting partner for season 6 of Let's Talk About Sects. Head here to enter our competition to win a pair of ATH-SQ1TW Wireless Earbuds!Links:Theater group, cult or stage? — by Jack Brooks, The San Francisco Progress, 22 December 1978Strange School — by Michael Taylor and Bernard Weiner, The San Francisco Chronicle, 23 December 1978‘Theater of All Possibilities' deserves a second look — by Jack Brooks, The San Francisco Progress, 10 January 1979My Life in a Cult — by Spencer L. Schneider, The East Hampton Star Magazine, 16 December 2019Manhattan Cult Story — Spencer Schneider's blog ‘Exposing the Sharon Gans Cult'Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival — by Spencer Schneider, Arcade Publishing, 2022Seeing Into the Heart of Things — Bette Leahy's blog about OSGThe Gentle Souls Revolution — Esther Friedman's blog about ‘The School'The Gentle Souls Revolution — by Esther Friedman, GSR Healing Arts, 2023A Safety Guide For Gentle Souls w/Esther Friedman — IndoctriNation podcast with Rachel Bernstein, 30 August 2022 Subscribe and support the production of this independent podcast, and you can access early + ad-free episodes at https://plus.acast.com/s/lets-talk-about-sects. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this miniseries, returning guest Esther Friedman talks to us about her recently self-published memoir "The Gentle Souls Revolution" detailing her time within the secret school of New York and Boston offered referred to as Odyssey Study Group. Esther has appeared on episodes 161 and 182, the second chat alongside fellow OSG survivor Spencer Schneider. Esther's memoir is currently being developed as an audiobook, with a crowdfunding effort launcing soon. Find a copy of Esther's memoir here - https://www.stylink.it/GQDORT6zvZ Get in Touch or Support:Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvaultCult Vault Shop - cultvaultpodcast.com/shopCrimecon UK 2023 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPodReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-VaultGmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

In this miniseries, returning guest Esther Friedman talks to us about her recently self-published memoir "The Gentle Souls Revolution" detailing her time within the secret school of New York and Boston offered referred to as Odyssey Study Group. Esther has appeared on episodes 161 and 182, the second chat alongside fellow OSG survivor Spencer Schneider. Esther's memoir is currently being developed as an audiobook, with a crowdfunding effort launcing soon. Find a copy of Esther's memoir here - https://www.stylink.it/GQDORT6zvZ Get in Touch or Support:Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvaultCult Vault Shop - cultvaultpodcast.com/shopCrimecon UK 2023 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPodReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-VaultGmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

In this miniseries, returning guest Esther Friedman talks to us about her recently self-published memoir "The Gentle Souls Revolution" detailing her time within the secret school of New York and Boston offered referred to as Odyssey Study Group. Esther has appeared on episodes 161 and 182, the second chat alongside fellow OSG survivor Spencer Schneider. Esther's memoir is currently being developed as an audiobook, with a crowdfunding effort launcing soon. Find a copy of Esther's memoir here - https://www.stylink.it/GQDORT6zvZ Get in Touch or Support:Patreon - patreon.com/thecultvaultCult Vault Shop - cultvaultpodcast.com/shopCrimecon UK 2023 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPodReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-VaultGmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.com

On today's show Spencer Schneider discusses his experience being part of a modern day cult in Manhattan. GUEST OVERVIEW: Spencer L. Schneider is an attorney who specializes in corporate litigation in New York. A native of Brooklyn, he received his BA in Philosophy from Washington University in 1982, and his JD from Cardozo School of Law in 1985 where he was Articles Editor of the Arts and Entertainment Law Journal. He has published law journal articles as well as essays in East Magazine. Mr Schneider is an open water marathon swimmer and ice water swimmer. He works as an ocean lifeguard, operates a lifeguard training academy, and co-founded a water rescue group. He is the only member or former member of the Sharon Gans cult to have published his experience. He runs the Blog, “Manhattan Cult Story”, about the Sharon Gans cult.

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Check out how you can save 10% on your first month of online therapy here. This month we are teaming up with igotout.org, throughout the month of November, follow along with us as we share education, survivor stories and ways you can join in on the movement. Each episode this month will include stories of cult survival, including the abuses described in Dr Steven Hassan's BITE Model. Don't forget to submit your cult stories at outofmlm.info! Spencer Schneider spent 23 years of his life in an elite Manhattan secret society, hidden in plain sight, and operating under everyone's noses called "School". The founder, an eccentric washed up actress named Sharon Gans was obsessed with the private lives of her followers, abusing them for her own sick satisfaction. Though not an MLM, the parallels of the two organizations feel dangerously familiar, and Spencer is here to help us expose them. Show Notes: Spencer's website - https://www.spencer-schneider.com/ Follow Spencer on IG - https://www.instagram.com/officialspencerschneider/ Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival - https://amzn.to/3U2Gr9v Cultish by Amanda Montell - https://amzn.to/3Q7owx9 Dr. Steven Hassan's BITE Model - https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/bite-model/ Ponzinomics by Robert L. FitzPatrick - https://amzn.to/3q16oJb How can you help? Report false income and health claims here: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ Or go to: https://www.truthinadvertising.org You can also report to your state Attorney General's office! https://www.naag.org/find-my-ag/ Not in the U.S.? Go here: https://www.ftc.gov/policy/international/competition-consumer-protection-authorities-worldwide Support the Podcast! Join the Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/robertablevins Buy me a Taco and leave a note!

This week I welcome Spencer Schneider, a cult survivor, lawyer and life guard trainer from New York who wrote the fascinating book Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos and Survival.” This story demonstrates how some preconceived notions of how cults operate are totally wrong and the red flags are not... The post Sensibly Speaking Podcast #360: Sex, Lies and a Manhattan Cult appeared first on The Sensibly Speaking Podcast.

"We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child's private school and sold you your brownstone. But you'd never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us." Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School-a cult of snared Manhattan professionals-has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult. Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans. "During those years," Schneider writes, "my world was School. That's what it's like when you're in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York's educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out." At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It's about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized-all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.

"We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child's private school and sold you your brownstone. But you'd never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us." Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School-a cult of snared Manhattan professionals-has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult. Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans. "During those years," Schneider writes, "my world was School. That's what it's like when you're in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York's educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out." At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It's about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized-all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.

"We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child's private school and sold you your brownstone. But you'd never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us." Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School-a cult of snared Manhattan professionals-has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult. Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans. "During those years," Schneider writes, "my world was School. That's what it's like when you're in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York's educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out." At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It's about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized-all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.

Have you ever wondered about cults? How do you get into one? How do you get out? Why don't you leave when things get abusive? Why do people stay? Spencer Schneider is a former member of a Manhattan Cult, who finally got away after 23 years in the cult. His new book “Manhattan Cult Story” covers the journey from how he got in, to how he got out, and all the sordid details in between. In our chat we learn how people were targeted, some of their internal vocabulary they use, and how he came to doubt himself. We talk about gaslighting, mind games, and how relationships were regulated. Plus, how Spencer finally was able to leave. It's a rare insider view to the world of cults and how they work, with a strong dose of hope at the end.

Spencer Schneider, Thoughtful Thursday Underwritten by https://www.greenhillny.com/ (Green Hill Kitchen) Author Spencer Schneider joins The Heart of the East End on-air for a Thoughtful Thursday discussion of his recent release, “Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos and Survival.” Ask for Schneider's work at your local book store. Steve Long, HOTsightsandsounds Underwritten by http://www.williamris.com/ (William Ris Gallery) East Hampton Historical Society's Executive Director, Steve Long, joins The Heart to talk about their centennial exhibition displaying ten treasures from EHHS's 20,000-plus piece collection of objects. For a curator's tour, visit https://easthamptonhistory.org/ (easthamptonhistory.org)

In many ways, aging can truly bring on “the good life of our golden years.” Yet, no matter our age, educational level or accomplishments, we can still fall victim to scams, various fraudulent schemes and, believe it or not, the lures of a cult. Our guest, Spencer Schneider, knows first hand what it feels like to live under the fear of physical and sexual abuse, forced labor and the sheer terror of suffering long-term, broad-ranging exploitation. He has just come out with a fascinating and compelling account of his 23-year ordeal. It's called Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival. If you or someone you care about has been impacted by ongoing abuse or the terrors of subjugation through membership in a cult, please take a few minutes to tune in. You will hear Spencer discuss the issues involved and share ways he successfully overcame them to heal from the emotional trauma he experienced.      

Author: Spencer Schneider Book: MANHATTAN CULT STORY: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival Publishing: ‎ Arcade (July 5, 2022) Synopsis (from the Publisher): “We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our […] The post SPENCER SCHNEIDER – MANHATTAN CULT STORY: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival appeared first on KSCJ 1360.

Spencer Schneider https://www.spencer-schneider.com/BOOK: Manhattan Cult StoryAt its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It's about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized—all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.Renee Linnellhttps://reneelinnell.com/authorBOOK: Still On Fire: A MemoirGiovanni Ruscittihttps://bhgrlaw.com/people/attorneys/giovanni-m-ruscitti/https://www.radiusbookgroup.com/book/cobblestones-conversations-and-corks-a-sons-discovery-of-his-italian-heritage/

Frank Morano interviews Spencer Schneider, Attorney, Marathon Runner, School Survivor and Author of Manhattan Cult Story about the secretive Manhattan cult known as "school". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On tonight's edition of the Other Side of Midnight: Frank Morano thinks HE's the king of the castle. During the first hour of this program, we're joined by Spencer Schneider, attorney, marathon runner, “school” survivor and author of Manhattan Cult Story to discuss the secretive Manhattan cult known as “school.” Later, Jeffrey Lichtman, veteran criminal defense attorney and the host of the podcast Beyond the Legal Limit, talks about the legal implications of the FBI raiding former President Trump's home at Mar-a-Lago. We go through this week's round of commendations, decide whether or not we can listen to musical artists we disagree with politically, and pay tribute to Vin Scully and Nichelle Nichols. This episode of TOSOM is going to take you completely by surprise! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg finds out what The Odyssey Study Group was doing behind closed doors. Jessica trades insider information on Boesky, Milken, and their ilk.

They took an oath of absolute secrecy and lived in a covert world in plain sight. “It didn't look like a cult. I was relieved. Nobody was in black robes chanting. No kids running around in rags with faraway gazes. Just a bunch of young professionals––hedge funders, doctors, entrepreneurs, lawyers––in a secret loft in Tribeca. They looked, I realized, a lot like me,” says Spencer Schneider. “I had no way to possibly know they were brainwashed––hollowed out souls––under the clutches of a leader every bit as twisted and commanding as Jim Jones.”This is Schneider's true story of how he got entangled in a cult known only as "School," why he stayed, and how––impossibly––he got out after twenty-three years. It's a cautionary tale about the power of group psychology and how anyone can be radicalized. It's also a story of resiliency and freedom.A native of Long Island, Spencer Schneider is practicing attorney who specializes in corporate litigation in New York. Mr. Schneider is also an open water marathon swimmer and ice water swimmer. He is employed as an ocean lifeguard, operates a lifeguard training academy, and co-founded a water rescue group. Mr. Schneider is a contributing writer of EAST Magazine. His book, "Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival," will be released by Arcade Publishing and distributed by Simon & Schuster on July 5, 2022. Mr. Schneider lives in New York and East Hampton. Mr. Schneider received his BA in Philosophy from Washington University in 1982, and his JD from Cardozo School of Law in 1985 where he was Articles Editor of the Arts and Entertainment Law Journal. He received the annual faculty award for best Law Review note. He began his legal career in 1986 at a predecessor firm to the New York City branch of Hogan Lovells.

In Season 1, we covered the harms perpetrated by Sharon Gans and the Odyssey Study Group - a cult that has preyed on people for decades. If you need a refresher, head back over to Episode 33. In this episode, we have the opportunity to sit down with Esther Friedman and Spencer Schneider, two former members of the Cult, to hear their stories, their experiences, and their journeys since leaving. The two paint a very surreal portrait of life within the confines of the cult. You do not want to miss this interview! Available wherever you stream podcasts! Be sure to Subscribe, Rate, & Review on iTunes! Support the show by becoming a sponsor on our Patreon: www.Patreon.com/NYMysteryMachine Don't forget to follow us on all the socials: Instagram: @NYMysteryMachine Twitter: @NYMysteries Facebook: @NYMysteryMachine THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS BARKBOX: Use the link www.barkbox.com/NYMysteryMachine to get a Free Extra Month of BarkBox (valued at $35) when you sign up for multi-length plans. HUNT A KILLER: Receive 20% off your first Hunt a Killer subscription box at www.HuntAKiller.com with the code NYMYSTERYMACHINE at checkout!

“We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child's private school and sold you your brownstone. But you'd never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us.” Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School—a cult of snared Manhattan professionals—has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult.Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans.“During those years,” Schneider writes, “my world was School. That's what it's like when you're in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York's educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out.” At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It's about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized—all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.

“We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child's private school and sold you your brownstone. But you'd never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us.” Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School—a cult of snared Manhattan professionals—has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult. Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans. “During those years,” Schneider writes, “my world was School. That's what it's like when you're in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York's educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out.” At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It's about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized—all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.

“We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child's private school and sold you your brownstone. But you'd never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us.” Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School—a cult of snared Manhattan professionals—has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult. Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans. “During those years,” Schneider writes, “my world was School. That's what it's like when you're in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York's educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out.” At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It's about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized—all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.

Can you keep a secret? Lawyer and author of Manhattan Cult Story My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival discusses his attraction to esoteric philosophy, how he joined Sharon Gan's secretive group School, the strict social rules members had to follow, the financial and psychological abuse being commited by the group, and how he finally left after being a membe for 23 years! PLUS: Lola and Meagan discuss the intersection of social media and mental health, high rise jeans, death doulas, and open casket funerals. FOR MORE INFO AND RESOURCES: https://nyc-wellness.com/ http://www.cultrevolt.com/ https://www.spencer-schneider.com/ Got your own story about cults, extreme belief, or abuse of power? Leave a voicemail or text us at 347-86-TRUST (347-868-7878) OR shoot us an email at Trust Me Pod @gmail.com FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: @trustmepodcast @oohlalola @vibehigherbitch OR TWITTER: @trustmecultpod @ohlalola

They called it “School” but the education that Spencer Schneider received for 23 years was far from scholastic. Spencer wrote a book, “Manhattan Cult Story- My Unbelievable True Story of Sex Crimes, Chaos, and Survival,” and the title couldn't say any better than what he experienced in this secret society, preying upon the vulnerable, but wealthy, promising them self fulfillment and betterment through the guise of their teachings. “Cults build you up and once you become dependent, then the abuse and the trauma starts. I haven't met a single person who hasn't had some lasting memory, negative memory or trauma. From this group, there is without exception, an extremely harmful group, very harmful, very tricky. They really get under your skin," he tells host Robin Milling. Writing the book has opened a can of worms with news stories covering deceased cult leader Sharon Gans and the horrific tales of other members who have come forward with their truth. Spencer got out and his unbelievable story should be taken as a cautionary tale.

On tonight's edition of the Other Side of Midnight: Frank Morano steps in it. During the first hour of this program, we're joined by Spencer Schneider, attorney, marathon runner, "school" survivor and author of Manhattan Cult Story to discuss the secretive Manhattan cult known as “school.” Later, everyone's favorite comedian/dentist Jeffrey Gurian, returns to the Other Side to discuss comedy, happiness and more! We go over this week's round of Commendations, tackle the problem of mental illness and substance abuse among veterans, and examine incredulously at the case of the "racist" Sesame Place muppet. Sunday scaries got you down? Be transported to another realm with this episode of TOSOM! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frank Morano discusses the secretive Manhattan cult known as “school” with Spencer Schneider, attorney, marathon runner, "school" survivor and author of Manhattan Cult Story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dave Coulier, Uncle Joey from "Full House", stops by to talk about his new show "Live & Local" Both Dave's talk about the butchering of their names, their time in the Radio Industry, and the lies put forth on Wikipedia.Spencer Schneider, Cult Survivor and Author of "Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievably True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos & Survival". Spencer explains what he went through and how he was lured into "School". He also shares how and why he stayed in the cult for over 20 years.In Top Nerd News we talk about the awful and disturbing treatment 'Stranger Things' Eddie Munson aka Joseph Quinn suffered at the London Film and Comic Con. We hear his and a fans interaction and his tearful response. Then we talk about some great news for the Fall CW Lineup on TV i.e. Supernatural Spin Off "The Winchesters" as well as an awful trailer for the new show "Gotham Knights". The show looks awful, but the Comment section is pure gold!All that and more on The Week in Geek with D Squared. Sunday nights at 7pm on WRNO.com and the Free iHeart Radio App. If you want to be on the show or just leave a comment, go to Newstalk 99.5 WRNO or The Week in Geek on the iHeart Radio App and Click the Red Microphone Button to leave a 30 second message! Make sure you Click the SUBSCRIBE button so you never miss a new episode. Follow us on Twitter @TWIGradio and The Week in Geek on Instagram. 7/17/22

Will enough Americans finally wake up to this 40-year grift to put an end to it and return our country to sanity? Spencer Schneider spent over 20 years inside a NYC cult, having been sucked in through a meeting. A cult of lawyers, investment bankers, accountants and doctors? Are they a cult? Oh yes! He escaped successfully and joins Thom Hartmann to explain how our country can escape Trump's dangerous cult alive.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival with Author Spencer Schneider. Author Website: https://www.spencer-schneider.com/ https://www.cultrevolt.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A business world cult? Surviving it...

A business world cult? Surviving it...

Author Spencer Schneider calls in to discuss his book that details his time as a cult member in NYC. Photo: iStock / Getty Images Plus Cemile Bingol

7/12/22 - Former Cult Member Spencer Schneider by The Lisa Wexler Show

When Spencer Schneider was a twenty-nine-year-old Manhattan corporate lawyer, an acquaintance invited him to a secret meeting of an “esoteric school for inner development,” known to its students simply as “School.” Suspicious yet curious, he went. At first, he found support, community, and meaning. But soon, he found himself trapped in one of the nation's most secretive and abusive cults. In the name of personal development, hundreds endured decades of sexual and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled savings and inheritances, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for their charismatic and demented leader Sharon Gans, a washed-up actress who claimed to be on a spiritual par with Buddha. This is Schneider's story of how he got entangled in School, why he stayed, and how–– impossibly––he got out after twenty-three years. It's a cautionary tale about the power of group psychology and how anyone can be radicalized. It's also a story of surviving traumatic abuse and ultimately finding a path to healing. Spencer Schneider is an attorney who specializes in corporate litigation in New York. A native of Brooklyn, Mr. Schneider is an open water marathon swimmer and ice water swimmer. He works as an ocean lifeguard, operates a lifeguard training academy, and co-founded a water rescue group. He is the only member or former member of School to have published his experience in the cult. He was a member of School's inner circle for twenty-three years. He started the blog about School called “Cult Revolt.” A contributing writer for East Magazine, he lives in New York City and East Hampton. Spencer can be reached @officialspencerschneider on Instagram and on Facebook at Spencer Schneider. Make sure to take advantage of GrowRev's FREE audit! Want to grow your business? You have to be properly optimized on social media. They'll help you get there, FOR FREE! www.getmyfreeaudit.com/audit  

Guests: Dr. Jacob Mirman (50:26), Spencer Schneider (1:24:23). The KQ Morning Show - Originally aired on July 11, 2022 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A fascinating chat with attorney and author Spencer Schneider, who discusses his new book "Manhattan Cult Story", detailing his 23 years in a secret NYC cult through which every aspect of his life was controlled. We explore how he got in, what it was like inside and what eventually led to his exit. Jill Schlesinger, CBS News Business Analyst & Host of Jill On Money, also joins us for a truly insightful conversation about the direction of the economy, recession fears, the stock market, crypto and more. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a messege: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by radiofreerhinecliff.org and Andy Ostroy Music by Andrew Hollander Design by Cricket Lengyel

Episode 87: This week on the “Dan's Talks” podcast, Dan speaks with Spencer Schneider, attorney and author of Manhattan Cult Story. The East Hamptonite … Read More

In this week's episode I speak with returning guests Spencer and Esther as we discuss and compare each individual experience within Sharon Gan's esoteric "school" the Odyssey Study Group. Spencer's memoir "Manhattan Cult Story" is available to pre-order today with an official release date of July 5th. You can find your copy here - https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk/books/Manhattan-Cult-Story/Spencer-Schneider/9781950994557Promotions - The Commune - https://interactives.stuff.co.nz/2022/the-commune-podcast-centrepoint/Crimepedia - https://www.crimepediapodcast.com/our-storyCult Vault Shop - cultvaultpodcast.com/shopCrimecon UK 2022 - https://www.crimecon.co.uk/Get In TouchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPodTumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/cultvaultReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-VaultGmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thecultvaultSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/cultvaultpodcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child's private school and sold you your brownstone. But you'd never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us.”That's a snippet from Spencer Schneider's compelling and creepy AF memoir: Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival. This isn't an ad, it's just the truth: We think you're going to want to grab yourself a copy before you hit the beach this summer. It's that much of a page turner. In this episode of A Little Bit Culty, Spencer joins us to share more about what it was like living inside the nightmarish bubble of ‘School', the ultra-secret Manhattan organization that consumed his life for 23 years. And just in case you've not heard of ‘School', this particular culty shitshow gives us Eyes Wide Shut vibes with sprinklings of Eloise if she lived at The Plaza in the Upside Down. For extra credit, read up on the late Sharon Gans, the eccentric School leader whose cult resume lowlights include: forced adoptions, arranged marriages, twisted displays of public humiliation and conspicuous consumption, and forced labor. Glad you got the hell out of there, Spencer. Hear Ye, Hear Ye: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.Support the ALBC Pod:We've made a link where you can support A Little Bit Culty with a one-time, weekly, or monthly contribution. Your support will be repaid in cosmic love and light. To make a contribution, smash this link.Check out our Linktree to sign up for our mailing list. We've got some fun things coming your way soon. It rhymes with “t-shirts.” Okay, it's t-shirts.Producers: Will Retherford & Jess TardyTheme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this episode I speak with Spencer about his time spent in Sharon Gan's cult in Manhattan. A strange and twisted story, as Spencer alludes too in his own words in the full title of his memoir: Manhattan Cult Story. Abuse, Crime, Sex, and My Life inside a Secret Organization"National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK - 0800 689 5652https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org - 1-800-273-8255Link to Spencer's article - https://www.easthamptonstar.com/20191216/my-life-cultLink to pre-order Spencer's memoir - https://www.skyhorsepublishing.com/arcade-publishing/9781950994557/manhattan-cult-story/Get In TouchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultvaultpod/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CultVaultPodTumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/cultvaultReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Cult-VaultGmail: cultvaultpodcast@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thecultvaultSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/cultvaultpodcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy