Growing Up In Polygamy

What made thousands of people believe Jim Jones?

In Episode 2 of How to Become a Cult Leader, we dive into one of the most powerful tools Jim Jones used to grow his following: fake healings and claims of divine power. By convincing people that miracles were happening before their eyes, he built trust, loyalty, and ultimately, complete control.

As former members of high-demand religious communities, these tactics felt surprisingly familiar.

Growing up in Mormon fundamentalism—and later mainstream Mormonism—we were taught from a young age that prophets could receive direct revelation from God. Because of that, the idea of someone claiming to "speak for God" didn't initially sound extraordinary to us. It was simply part of the worldview we had inherited.

In this reaction, we compare Jim Jones' methods with those of Warren Jeffs and discuss why claims of divine authority can be so persuasive, especially for people raised to believe that God speaks through a single chosen leader.

Our goal isn't to criticize faith—it's to explore how trust can be manipulated when leaders place themselves above accountability.

What do you think?
Why do you think claims of miracles or divine authority are so convincing? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

If you enjoy thoughtful discussions about documentaries, high-demand religions, survivor stories, and the psychology behind manipulation, be sure to subscribe and join the conversation.

#HowToBecomeACultLeader #JimJones #WarrenJeffs #GrowingUpInPolygamy #CultAwareness #HighControlGroups #ReligiousTrauma #DocumentaryReaction #ExMormon #FLDS #Psychology #TrueCrime

If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org

At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."

If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy

Insta: @growingupinpolygamy
www.growingupinpolygamy.com
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Please feel free to reach out to us!
growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

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In the first episode of How to Become a Cult Leader, we take a closer look at the rise of Charles Manson and the tactics he used to gain influence over his followers. But as we watched, we decided that the series should really be called "How to Avoid a Cult Leader."

As former members of high-demand religious communities, we recognize many of these warning signs. Throughout this reaction, we compare Manson's methods with those of Warren Jeffs and other authoritarian leaders, exploring the striking similarities that appear again and again across groups that demand unquestioning loyalty.

From isolation and manipulation to creating an "us vs. them" mentality, these patterns aren't unique to one person or one community. Whether the leader is religious, political, or charismatic in another way, the playbook is often remarkably similar.

Our goal isn't just to react to a documentary—it's to help people recognize the red flags before they become trapped by them.

What similarities stood out to you? Are there warning signs you think more people should know about? Let us know in the comments below.

If you enjoy thoughtful discussions about high-demand groups, religious trauma, documentaries, and survivor stories, we'd love to have you subscribe and join the conversation.

#HowToBecomeACultLeader #CharlesManson #WarrenJeffs #GrowingUpInPolygamy #CultAwareness #HighControlGroups #Netflix #TrueCrime #ReligiousTrauma #ExMormon #FLDS #DocumentaryReaction

If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org

At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."

If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy

Insta: @growingupinpolygamy
www.growingupinpolygamy.com
Theme Song created by @artcowles

Please feel free to reach out to us!
growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

Create Shorts Easily like us with Opus Clips: https://www.opus.pro/?via=SamandMelissa

What does it take to chase a dream when you have almost nothing?
In Episode 4 of The Journal of Charles F. Zitting, we continue reading from Sam's grandfather's personal journal as he reflects on his teenage years. Charles shares memories of the many jobs he worked to help support himself, the determination that carried him through high school, and his unwavering desire to attend the University of Utah—even though he had no money and no clear path to get there.
His story is one of perseverance, hard work, and the belief that education could open doors to a better future. As we read his words, we also discuss what these experiences reveal about his character and how they would shape the life he eventually built.
Whether you're interested in family history, early Utah life, or stories of resilience, we hope you'll join us as we continue exploring the remarkable life of Charles F. Zitting.
📖 This series follows the autobiography of Sam's grandfather, Charles F. Zitting, with our commentary and reflections along the way.
If you enjoy preserving family history and hearing firsthand accounts from the past, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this series with someone who loves stories of determination and perseverance.
#CharlesFZitting #FamilyHistory #Autobiography #UniversityOfUtah #GrowingUpInPolygamy #JournalSeries #UtahHistory #PersonalHistory #Perseverance #Education
If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org
At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."
If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy
Insta: @growingupinpolygamy
www.growingupinpolygamy.com
Theme Song created by @artcowles

Please feel free to reach out to us!
growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com

Create Shorts Easily like us with Opus Clips: https://www.opus.pro/?via=SamandMelissa

After watching Trust Me: A False Prophet, one question kept coming up: Why did it take so long to stop Samuel Bateman?
If law enforcement knew about allegations of abuse, why wasn't he arrested sooner? What kind of evidence does it actually take to investigate and convict a cult leader?
In this episode, we sit down with retired law enforcement officer and author Mike King to explore what happens behind the scenes during investigations into abusive religious leaders. We discuss the legal standards prosecutors must meet, why investigations involving coercive control and closed religious communities often take years, and the challenges of building a case that can result in a conviction.
Using the Samuel Bateman case featured in Trust Me: A False Prophet as a real-world example, we examine what the justice system did well, where it fell short, and why investigators sometimes have to wait until they have enough evidence to ensure a dangerous leader is held accountable.
Whether you're interested in the FLDS, high-demand religions, true crime, religious abuse, or the legal process behind major criminal investigations, this conversation provides valuable insight into why justice can take longer than many people expect.
If you've watched Trust Me: A False Prophet, we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments:
What surprised you most about the investigation into Samuel Bateman?
If you enjoy our conversations about the FLDS, the Kingston Group ("The Order"), the AUB, and other high-demand religious communities, don't forget to like this video, subscribe, and share it with someone who might find it helpful.
Thank you for supporting our mission to create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized, and abused by their leaders while giving survivors a platform to share their stories.
#TrustMe #SamuelBateman #MikeKing #FLDS #Polygamy #ReligiousAbuse #CultLeader #TrueCrime #HighDemandReligion #growingupinpolygamy

Follow Mike King:
@ProfilingEvil
profilingevil.com
Listen to Gardens of Evil here: https://go.gamutpodcasts.com/americannightmareseries

If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org
At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."
If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy
Insta: @growingupinpolygamy
www.growingupinpolygamy.com
Theme Song created by @artcowles
Please feel free to reach out to us!
growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com
Create Shorts Easily like us with Opus Clips: https://www.opus.pro/?via=SamandMelissa

Life Beyond Polygamy: The Power of CommunityWhat role does community play in helping individuals and families rebuild their lives? Join us for a special live discussion about the impact of community, the importance of support systems, and how community partners help create pathways to healing, stability, and independence.This conversation features members of the Holding Out HELP team alongside special guests and collaborators who bring unique perspectives on the challenges many individuals face and the power of having people and organizations willing to walk alongside them.Featured Guests• Christine Brown Woolley• Amanda Rae• Melanie & Cory Koerner (@NotesToSelf444)• Tonia Tewell, Executive Director of Holding Out HELPTogether, we'll discuss:• The importance of community after isolation• How community partners help fill critical gaps in services• Education, scholarships, counseling, and other resources available through partnerships• Why no one should have to navigate life's challenges alone• How supporters like you help make these resources possibleSupport the Ignite the Light: 12 Days of Freedom CampaignEvery dollar helps someone take a step toward safety, healing, and independence.🔥 Donate today:https://holdingouthelp.networkforgood.com/projects/301518-ignite-the-light-12-days-of-freedomYour support helps provide housing assistance, counseling, case management, education support, emergency assistance, legal advocacy, transportation, and community programming for individuals and families from polygamous and other insular communities.About Holding Out HELPHolding Out HELP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive support services to individuals and families from polygamous and other insular communities. Through housing assistance, counseling, case management, education support, financial literacy, legal advocacy, and community-building opportunities, we help individuals create safe, stable, and independent futures.Learn more: http://holdingouthelp.org#IgniteTheLight #HoldingOutHELP #LifeBeyondPolygamy #CommunityMatters #StrongerTogether #IndependenceDay #Nonprofit #ReligiousTraumaRecoveryAt Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."Please feel free to reach out to us!growingupinpolygamy@gmail.com