There’s no shortage of content out there on the subject of Scientology. When we decided to tackle it, we knew the episode would have to focus on people, and the lasting effect Scientology has on its members once they leave. 

The Church of Scientology has been in conflict with governments and police forces of many countries and is widely criticized. It was founded in the 1950s on a set of psychological principles created by science-fiction author Ron Hubbard. 

Controversy over the years includes allegations of criminal behaviour by members, harassment of people perceived as enemies, the death of Scientologist Lisa McPherson while under the Church’s care, and attempts to force search engines to censor information that criticizes the church. With today’s media landscape, keeping people quiet hasn’t gotten any easier. 

More and more people have left Scientology and spoken out about its negative effects, despite the Church’s repeated attempts to shut them up. Whether it’s the shocking and crazy stories, celebrity involvement, or simple curiosity, something continues to drive pop culture’s obsession with Scientology, and today, we share the stories of 4 people who escaped the Church and are now speaking out: Lori Hodgson, Jenna Miscavige Hill, Sam Domingo, and Melissa Paris.

Some are putting Scientology in the past, and some are still struggling to this day. 

Host: Karla Stephens-Tolstoy

Editor and Co-Producer: Joel at East Coast Radio Creative

Links:  

• www.exscientologykids.com
• www.amazon.ca/Beyond-Belief-Secret-Scientology-Harrowing/dp/0062248480  
• www.escapingscientology.com  
• www.youtube.com/channel/UCAVxMII8Dgcw08E0obtbGJA  
• www.scientology-cult.com/the-destruction-of-my-family.html  
• www.aetv.com/shows/leah-remini-scientology-and-the-aftermath

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