Newsletter - The Barbie Movie: a metaphor for growing up and exiting a cult
Also, an important video meeting and an upcoming livestream
Dear friends,
My latest blog post in Psychology Today, “The Barbie Movie - A Powerful Journey to Autonomy,” has been published. Although the movie was nominated for eight Oscars, it received only one award for Best Original Song. However, it made over $1 billion. For me, the movie had the underlying storyline of someone born into an authoritarian cult who gets deprogrammed and then has to figure out who she really is. As you may have noticed, the public has been hungry for cult-related content in recent years. There are so many documentaries and podcasts coming out on cults!
As I mentioned in last week’s newsletter, the Movement Voter Project fundraiser was a great success—raising over $100k. Former Trump campaign director (2015/2016) Alva Johnson and former MAGA true believer Rich Logis joined me. You can see the video of the event. If you care about our America, check this out, and if you are moved, send in a contribution to them.
This week, Eric Skwarczynski interviewed me for his Preacher Boys podcast, which will air on the 31st of this month. Eric was interviewed for Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals, which is currently streaming on HBO Max. The docuseries focuses on the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement. Check it out.
This week’s Influence Continuum blog post and podcast feature Ryan McBeth, an experienced military veteran and a recognized figure in cybersecurity, military analysis, and artificial intelligence. We discuss Artificial Intelligence in military combat, the Importance of education and civic awareness in countering misinformation, and much more. This talk focuses on better understanding all things military- with a special emphasis on the conflict in Ukraine and Israel.
Join us for a Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok Live next Wednesday, March 20th, at 2 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. My friend and colleague Jim Picariello was recruited into Frederick Lenz’s “Zen Master Rama” cult and he will share his story with us – which includes a unique aspect to this cult: vivid and wildly “miraculous” visions, all witnessed without being drugged. I had the opportunity to help Jim avoid a deep dive into the cult 31 years ago. It should be a fascinating conversation because it’s relevant to the hypnotic craziness we all see now on the Internet.
Warmly,
For generations, Barbie has taught little girls that they can be anything. Now, Barbie's big-screen story can teach everyone about authenticity and independence. Join Steven as we learn about the Barbie Movie from the perspective of a cult expert.
Read the blog post here.
Last Thursday, Steven moderated an important conversation with former Trump campaign director (2015/2016) Alva Johnson and former MAGA true believer Rich Logis at a virtual house party fundraiser for the Movement Voter Project. It was a great talk and you can see it here. Steve’s conversation with Alva and Rich starts at 35’02”.
In this enlightening episode, I speak to Ryan McBeth, an experienced military veteran and a recognized figure in cybersecurity, military analysis, and artificial intelligence, to explore a range of thought-provoking topics. Ryan brings a wealth of knowledge from his 20 years of service as an anti-armor and heavy weapons infantryman and his prolific work as a software architect, novelist, and YouTube content creator.
Read the blog post here.
Join me, Dr. Steven Hassan, on Wednesday, March 20th, from 2-3 PM EST for a Facebook and Instagram Live session. I will be speaking with Jim Picariello about his involvement with a group led by Frederick P. Lenz III, also known as Atmananda or Zen Master Rama. Lenz was a controversial figure who blended Buddhism with a lifestyle of luxury, snowboarding, and computer programming. His unexpected death in 1996 near his Long Island estate under mysterious circumstances marked the end of a complex saga. Lenz started as an English professor before becoming a self-styled guru, amassing followers with his unique blend of spirituality and material success, often at a high personal cost to his disciples.
Our discussion will explore Jim's experiences within this group, which was characterized by its exclusive nature, members seeing vivid hallucinations, the high financial demands placed on members, and the controversial techniques Lenz used, including allegations of drug use and exploitation.
Critics accused Lenz of using his teachings to manipulate and control, leading to estranged families and tragic outcomes for some followers. Despite the allure of achieving enlightenment and wealth, many left feeling betrayed and disillusioned.
This conversation aims to shed light on the real impact of Lenz's teachings and the challenging path to recovery from such a deeply manipulative environment. Join us for this revealing discussion about the dangers of cultic groups and the journey towards healing and autonomy.
Sign up here.
Unlock the Secrets of Authoritarian Control
Have you ever wondered how apparently well-adjusted individuals can become ensnared by the grip of mind control? Are you curious about the inner workings of cults and high-control groups? If so, our new course, "Understanding Undue Influence: The Essentials," will answer those questions and more.
This course explores the concept of the Influence Continuum, based on the BITE Model, encompassing Behavior, Information, Thought, and Emotional Control. By the course's end, you'll have the tools to spot the subtle signs of manipulation and shield yourself and your loved ones.
Take the first step towards gaining a deeper understanding of these complex dynamics and empower yourself.
Our Facebook group is growing and YOU are invited! Join us for insightful, respectful dialogue on cults, mind control, undue influence, authoritarianism, and much more. Together we can discuss what needs to be done to make a better world for all of us. You can join here, or scan the QR code in the above banner. We hope to see you there!