Why do people committed to their spiritual growth end up vulnerable to harmful cult dynamics?

Matthew Remski breaks down the mechanics of spiritual manipulation and why loneliness, economic instability, and the search for meaning create the perfect conditions for high-demand groups to thrive. This conversation doesn't dismiss spiritual seeking—it sharpens your ability to discern genuine teachers from manipulative ones.

What you'll learn:

• Why isolation makes you vulnerable to manipulation
• How charismatic leaders exploit confusion about meaning
• The difference between a teacher and a predator

Matthew Remski is co-host of Conspirituality Podcast and author of the forthcoming Anti-Fascist Dad. He spent years inside two high-demand spiritual groups and now investigates cult dynamics in yoga, wellness, and New Age communities.

A note from Melissa: Matthew and I don't land in the same place spiritually. I have a healthy skepticism, but I've also found real healing in spiritual work and I don't lead with suspicion the way he does. That said, his analysis of manipulation tactics is sharp and worth hearing—especially if you're building a spiritual practice in a world full of people selling salvation.

Find Matthew's podcasts Conspirituality and Anti-Fascist Dad and all links at: mindlove.com/441

Want to sharpen your discernment with others navigating the same questions? Join the free Mind Love Collective for monthly themed calls and weekly challenge accountability. mindlove.com/join

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