Let’s Not Start a Cult: Red Flags, Power, and Ethical Leadership with Sarah Steel

In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Steel, author and host of Let’s Talk About Sects , an award-winning independent podcast about which the New York Times said, "Come for the satisfying pun in the title, stay for the deeply researched chronicles of all kinds of cults." We discuss a topic that’s often misunderstood but deeply important, especially in the world of spirituality: the nature of cults. With cult documentaries becoming a regular feature on streaming services, and the word ‘cult’ being thrown around to describe different groups, we wanted to open a conversation to unpack what actually defines a cult and to explore the subtle red flags that can emerge in spiritual, religious, or self-development spaces. FYI - This isn’t an episode on the different cults that exist in the world nor is it about trauma. Sarah’s podcast is a great resource for those conversations and we highly recommend listening if you’re interested. Instead, we wanted this episode to discuss how cultic tendencies are part of many different communities, what to look out for when joining or being part of a community, and essentially how to not become a cult leader and instead build healthy community for all to benefit from. Whether you’re part of a spiritual community, a wellness circle, or simply curious about the dynamics of power, control, and coercion—this episode offers powerful insights on building integrity into the spaces we share. What we talk about. The definition of a cult and cult leader Impact of cults on its members Coercive behaviours, power, and control Cults evolving from communities Why cults are present in spirituality and religion Cult ‘Red Flags’ to look out for Supporting ex-members of cults Media coverage and public awareness of cults The business of spirituality and cult-like tendencies How to not become a cult leader Fostering healthy community and leaders in the spiritual space Connect with Sarah Steel. Website Instagram Resources. Let's Talk About Sects Podcast hosted by Sarah Steel Do As I Say How cults control, why we join them, and what they teach us about bullying, abuse and coercion (also available on Audible and Spotify ) Cultic bahaviour ‘Red Flags’ checklist Association for Spiritual Integrity honour code for teachers and students Learn to meditate with us at Mahasoma ---

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Let’s Not Start a Cult: Red Flags, Power, and Ethical Leadership with Sarah Steel is an episode from Mahasoma Podcast by Mahasoma.

This episode is 70:20 long.

This episode was published on May 4, 2025.

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