Mindful Mystics Podcast: The Cult Next Door: How to Spot the Signs

Brought to you by Paranormal Underground Radio

Episode Date: 3.22.2025

Hosts: Karen Frazier, Chuckie G, and Cheryl Knight-Wilson

Show Summary:

In this episode of “Mindful Mystics,” we pull back the curtain on cults — the obvious, the hidden, and the ones that might be closer to home than you think. We break down what defines a cult, why seemingly smart and grounded people can find themselves drawn in, and share personal stories of brushing up against cult-like experiences in everything from fitness groups to multi-level marketing.

You’ll learn what red flags to watch for, how to safeguard your autonomy, and how to recognize that cult-like traits might pop up in the most unexpected places. Whether it’s about spiritual groups, social circles, or self-help movements, this candid conversation will encourage you to reflect thoughtfully on the communities you choose to be part of.

Check out:

Paranormal Underground magazine: https://paranormalunderground.net/

Author and psychic medium Karen Frazier: https://www.authorkarenfrazier.com/#/

Paranormal Investigator and psychic medium Chuckie G: https://chuckieg.net/

Resources:

Podcasts:

Sounds Like a Cult: https://www.soundslikeacult.com/

Was I in a Cult?: https://www.wasiinacult.com/

Documentaries:

Wild Wild Country (Netflix): https://www.netflix.com/title/80145240

Heaven’s Gate: The Cult of Cults (Max): https://www.max.com/shows/heavens-gate-the-cult-of-cults/83f1cb47-bce8-4e60-a9d3-9153e5d4c455

Escaping Twin Flames (Netflix): https://www.netflix.com/title/81615919

Show Highlights:

[08:35] Setting the Scene: Why Talk About Cults?

Cheryl introduces the main topic — cults — and we set the tone by exploring their broad range, from infamous spiritual movements to modern fitness and business groups with cultic traits.

[10:38] Karen’s Lifelong Fascination with Cults

Karen shares how she’s been intrigued by cults since high school, explaining her deep dives into documentaries and books. She emphasizes that cult-like traits show up in everyday groups, from Disney fans to fitness classes.

[15:08] Karen’s Personal Brush With a Dance Cult

Karen recounts how she innocently joined a dance studio for fun but gradually noticed red flags, including love bombing, expensive advancement workshops, and manipulative leadership — all classic cult characteristics.

[23:58] Cheryl’s Experience With Multi-Level Marketing

Cheryl reflects on her younger years when she joined a seemingly harmless MLM group. She describes how the pressure to recruit and invest more money turned an initially fun side gig into an uncomfortable, high-pressure situation.

[27:26] Chuckie G Breaks Down Cult Traits + His Martial Arts Story

Chuckie G outlines the key warning signs of cults: charismatic leadership, isolation, high demands, financial exploitation, and unquestioning obedience. He also shares his own experience in martial arts, where rising costs and strict loyalty expectations mirrored cultic behavior.

[45:05] Exploring Paranormal & Spiritual Cults 

Cheryl dives into a few particularly intriguing paranormal/spiritual cults:

Twin Flames Universe: A modern online community promising soulmates, but rife with coercion and manipulation (see the Netflix doc “Escaping Twin Flames”).

Raëlism: A UFO cult founded in the 1970s, combining free love and alien prophecy, but criticized for pseudo-scientific beliefs and exploitation.

Heaven’s Gate: A notorious UFO cult that ended tragically in mass suicide, exemplifying extreme cult outcomes.

[51:51] How to Find Connection Without Falling Into a Cult

Cheryl asks Karen and Chuckie for advice on how people can find love, purpose, and community safely. Karen stresses the importance of boundaries, listening to your inner voice, and being wary of love bombing and control. Chuckie echoes the importance of trusting your gut and not ignoring discomfort.

[58:39] Recognizing That Cultic Traits Are Everywhere

Karen points out that many social groups — whether it’s sports, spirituality, or business — contain cultic elements. The key is being mindful, informed, and cautious without living in fear.

[01:03:07] Additional Podcast Recommendations on Cults 

Karen suggests listeners check out:

“Sounds Like a Cult” — Examining everyday cult-like communities.

“Was I in a Cult?” — Interviews with former cult members.

[01:06:47] Closing Thoughts: Empower Yourself with Awareness

Cheryl, Karen, and Chuckie wrap up by reminding listeners that vulnerability is human and education is the best defense. By recognizing the signs early, people can stay safe while still seeking community and purpose.

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