Bethany Joy Lenz shares how she escaped a cult after a decade. Learn the warning signs of narcissistic abuse and how to trust your gut again. One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy Lenz explains how a seemingly innocent Bible study slowly evolved into a controlling environment. She breaks down the subtle tactics used to isolate members and how she eventually found the strength to leave for the sake of her daughter. This conversation provides a candid look at the reality of life inside a high-control group. Beyond her personal story, Joy discusses the long-term impact of narcissistic manipulation and the path to healing. If you have ever felt confused by someone's behavior or blamed yourself for a difficult situation, this episode offers tools to help you recognize gaslighting and reclaim your sense of self. IN THIS EPISODE - How a good thing can slowly turn into control, and why so many of us miss the signs - Her rule now: "If you feel like something's weird, it's weird" - The 1 uncomfortable question that reveals a narcissist, and the response to watch for CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 04:33 How a Bible Study Turned Into a 10-Year Cult Experience 08:36 The Moment She Stopped Ignoring the Warning Signs 09:12 How Motherhood Helped Her Break Free From a Controlling Group 14:49 How to Trust Your Gut After Manipulation and Narcissistic Abuse 18:30 The Biggest Red Flag of Narcissistic Manipulation: Constant Confusion 20:14 How to Recognize Gaslighting and Manipulative Defensiveness 28:21 The Isolation Tactic That Keeps You Trapped in a Controlling Relationship 29:50 How to Stop Blaming Yourself for Your Past 39:20 How to Overcome Shame and Feel Less Alone After a Difficult Chapter MORE FROM THE TAMSEN SHOW: If you liked this conversation, check this out: The Narcissist Decoder: How Smart Women Get Trapped in Emotional Abuse (https://tr.ee/tts-yt-ramani-bethany) FOLLOW BETHANY JOY LENZ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/ Website: https://www.bethanylenz.com/ Get Joy's debut novel, The Betrayal of Cora Wexford (https://link.amazon/B0fKNyxkN) ____________ STAY CONNECTED WITH TAMSEN: - Get ⁠Tamsen's newsletter filled with free tools⁠ to living better, feeling stronger, and knowing you’re never alone: https://bit.ly/tts-youtube-newsletter - Get Tamsen’s NYT instant bestselling book, How To Menopause: https://bit.ly/tts-yt-htm - Free Resources from Tamsen: https://bit.ly/tts-youtube-hub - Watch all the episodes on YouTube: https://bit.ly/tts-youtube-playlist - Follow Tamsen on Instagram: https://bit.ly/tts-youtube-ig2 - The Tamsen Show on Instagram: https://bit.ly/tts-youtube-ig1 - Follow Tamsen on TikTok: https://bit.ly/tts-youtube-tt 🧡 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tamsen-show/id1799976761 SPONSORS: If you have an iPhone, head to https://www.ladder.fit/TAMSEN and take a quick quiz…

This week on Haley on the Go Bethany Joy Lenz, who you may know as Haley James Scott on One Tree Hill, opens up about the decade she spent inside a cult, what it took to get out, and how she’s learned to find the places where she truly belongs. We also talk about what life on the One Tree Hill set was really like while it was all happening, the letter she wrote to Nicholas Sparks, rebuilding identity, faith, and community after leaving and more. It's a conversation you don't want to miss! Haley on the Go is the show where I take you inside the conversations everyone should be having. We are talking to the people you care most about about the issues that matter most to you. Come for the guest, stay for the conversation, leave with something to talk about New interview episodes every Thursday and Solo deep dives on Mondays — make sure to follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Bethany Joy Lenz joins Kristin and they unpack Carrie and Berger’s disastrous motorcycle date. The conversation takes a deeper turn when Joy opens up about spending 10 years in a cult and shares the red flags everyone should know, from love bombing to being cut off from outside perspectives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bethany Joy Lenz says it plainly: “You really, really need to see this movie.” RENT NARCISSIST'S PLAYBOOK NOW: http://NarcissistsPlaybook.uscreen.io Time and again, people tell us the same thing after watching the film: once you can see the playbook, you can stop playing by its rules. Narcissist’s Playbook reveals how coercive people, manipulators and narcissists operate, why we make excuses for them, and how to protect ourselves. Watch Narcissist’s Playbook now. Tap the link in our bio to rent. #bethanyjoylenz #narcissisicabuse #documentary #narcissisticabuserecovery #filmreview

Bethany Joy Lenz discusses the complex mental juggle of being a star on a "worldly" Hollywood set while being deeply entrenched in a high-control religious group. She reflects on the "us versus them" mentality she once held, viewing those outside her circle with a condescending sense of pity she mistook for compassion. 👉 Subscribe to Cults to Consciousness Clips for more cult survivor stories: https://www.youtube.com/@CultstoConsciousnessClips 🎥 Watch the full podcast here: https://youtu.be/idrKmytaYdU?si=NH1JxaAhE5CKj9xP #bethanyjoylenz #onetreehill #SheliseAnnSola #cults #escapingcults #cultstoconsciousness

The glamorous facade of Hollywood often hides dark realities that the public rarely gets to see. For decades, several high-profile actresses found themselves secretly trapped within dangerous and manipulative cults. This deep dive examines the shocking stories of twelve famous women who were drawn into highly controlling organizations, exploring how these groups recruit, brainwash, and exploit individuals. We look at the specific psychological tactics used by these predatory sects to isolate their members, deplete their fortunes, and dictate their personal decisions. From experimental communes to extreme self-improvement networks, this video sheds light on the terrifying methods of coercion that exist just beneath the surface of fame. You will learn the warning signs that these groups use to target vulnerable stars, the power dynamics at play, and the incredible journeys of survival, recovery, and justice that followed. This channel explores the dark side of fame, secret societies, and the hidden histories of the entertainment industry. Timestamps: 0:00 - The Woman Who Held the Iron 0:45 - #12 - Winona Ryder 1:32 - #11 - Patricia Arquette 2:21 - Call to Action 2:31 - #10 - Glenn Close 3:15 - #9 - Michelle Pfeiffer 4:00 - #8 - Rose McGowan 4:41 - #7 - Linda Evans 5:20 - Call to Action 5:28 - #6 - Nazanin Boniadi 6:09 - #5 - Bethany Joy Lenz 6:55 - #4 - Sarah Edmondson 7:35 - #3 - India Oxenberg 8:12 - #2 - Nicki Clyne 8:47 - #1 - Allison Mack 9:37 - Behind Famous Faces

In this February reading wrap-up, I’m sharing my thoughts on the four books I finished this month. From a Hollywood memoir involving a religious cult to an atmospheric sapphic historical fiction, and a powerful American classic - February’s reading took me through a wide range of stories and emotions. In this video I talk about what each book is about, what I loved (and didn’t), and how they ranked for me by the end of the month. Mans's Channel https://youtu.be/7vA2mlHASGE?si=5gQuUB4o-At8nr2L Wuthering Heights Vlog https://youtu.be/HXGaHa-U1OQ January Wrap-Up https://youtu.be/oJtk5kt3Wak Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/184236927-holly 🕰️ Chapters: 00:26 Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz 08:36 The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden 13:10 Love in the Time of Colic by Ian Kerner and Heidi Raykeil 19:26 East of Eden by John Steinbeck 23:45 SPOILERS for East of Eden 25:34 SPOILERS End for East of Eden Other books mentioned: She Comes First by Ian Kerner Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte The Shards by Brett Easton Ellis Thanks for being here! #memoir #historicalfiction #literaryfiction #classicliterature #nonfictionbooks #readingwrapup #februaryreadingwrapup #booktube #bookrecommendations #bookreview

Hope you enjoy this throwback episode! Originally aired on October 16, 2024. Join Alex in the studio for an exclusive interview with Bethany Joy Lenz where she reveals that the whole time the world was watching her on One Tree Hill, she was stuck in an abusive and controlling cult behind the scenes. She shares what led her to this group, what her OTH castmates thought about it, how she escaped, and what it was like starting over again. CALL HER DADDY: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/callherdaddy Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callherdaddy X: https://www.x.com/callherdaddy ALEX: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandracooper Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fathercooper X: https://www.x.com/alexandracooper UNWELL: Youtube: @Unwell Website: https://www.iamunwell.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unwell Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unwell Hydration: https://www.unwellhydration.com

This episode originally aired on April 15, 2025.If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org-----This week on Bitch Is a Bad Word, actress, singer, author, and podcaster Bethany Joy Lenz joins us for a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation about surviving a cult — all while starring on one of TV’s most iconic teen dramas, One Tree Hill.Bethany opens up about her upcoming memoir, her journey of breaking free from coercive control, and how reclaiming her faith helped her heal from spiritual abuse and toxic relationships. She shares how being in the public eye shaped her recovery and how she's using her platform to empower others.🎙️ In this episode:What it was like to be in a cult while starring on a cult-favorite TV showEscaping spiritual manipulation and finding her own truthUnderstanding the difference between intuition and trauma responsesHealing from abusive relationships and psychological controlWhy storytelling and visibility matter in recoveryWhether you're a lifelong One Tree Hill fan, a survivor of spiritual or emotional abuse, or someone seeking truth and healing, Bethany’s story will resonate deeply.#BethanyJoyLenz #SurvivingACult #CoerciveControl #SpiritualAbuse #OneTreeHill #TraumaHealing #ToxicRelationships #Memoir2025 #BitchIsABadWordPodcastIf you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233Visit Joy's linktr.ee/bethanyjoylenz to PURCHASE:- Joy's book Dinner For Vampires: Life On A Cult TV Show (While In An Actual Cult)- Listen to Joy on the ONE TREE HILL podcast Dramaqueens- Subscribe to Joy's print magazine MODERN VINTAGE- And so much more!***Give yourself the ultimate in sleep comfort with a 40% Discount from Cozy EarthVisit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code BESTIES for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, andmore. And if you get a post-purchase survey, let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.-------Listen wherever you get your podcastsWatch: YouTubeJoin: PatreonFollow: Instagram TikTokSubscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breaking the Spell — Motherhood, Escape & Reclaiming her Voice | Part 2 In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Bethany Joy Lenz — actor, singer, and author of Dinner for Vampires — continues her story of life inside a high-control religious group while navigating fame on One Tree Hill. This episode picks up where we left off: unpacking the emotional, spiritual, and psychological cost of living under manipulation — and what it takes to reclaim your voice once you’re out. We talk about: - The lingering effects of indoctrination - The intensity of public life versus private suppression - Shame, perfectionism, and the fear of being “bad” - Narcissistic dynamics in spiritual systems - Expressing rage and grief through art Joy speaks with clarity, insight, and zero performative fluff — just one survivor speaking truthfully about the systems that tried to define her… and the long process of becoming herself again. 📚 Buy the Book 📖 Dinner for Vampires: Life on a Cult TV Show (While Also in an Actual Cult!) by Bethany Joy Lenz https://www.amazon.com/Dinner-Vampires-Life-While-Actual/dp/1668067307 Follow Bethany Joy Lenz →https://www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/ The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente Website: www.markvicente.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/ X: https://x.com/markvicente TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

In cults and high-control systems, there’s always a reason — a label, a diagnosis, a spiritual excuse — to discredit anyone who resists the leader. For Bethany Joy Lenz, it was “Jezebel” or “bipolar.” In NXIVM, it was exactly the same playbook. If you question the system? You’re weak. If you see through it? You’re toxic. If you walk away? You’re the problem. 🎧 Part 2 drops Sunday May 25th on WTF is on my Mind?! Dinner for Vampires w/ Bethany Joy Lenz: Breaking the Spell — Motherhood, Escape & Reclaiming her Voice | Part 2 📖 Her book: Dinner for Vampires #SpiritualAbuse #CultRecovery #BethanyJoyLenz #VoiceReclamation #MarkVicente #HighControlGroups

Living Two Lives — Hollywood Fame & Hidden Cult Control | Part 1 “You can’t be human here.” In Part 1 of this raw and revelatory conversation, One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy Lenz opens up about the decade she spent inside a high-control religious group — all while filming a hit TV show and hiding a double life. We talk about: - The slow creep of coercive control masked as faith - The emotional and spiritual suppression that comes with people-pleasing - The inner split of being both artist and captive - How spiritual language is used to dominate - What it feels like to finally scream, “Fck God, Fck Jesus, Fck everything”* — and why that moment was sacred This isn’t just an interview. It’s a conversation between two people who’ve lived inside systems that punished authenticity and praised obedience. What emerged is a vulnerable, unfiltered exchange about waking up, falling apart, and coming home to yourself. 👉 Part 2 drops next week, where we go even deeper into Joy’s escape, motherhood, financial exploitation, and her journey to rebuild trust and voice. 📚 Buy the Book 📖 Dinner for Vampires: Life on a Cult TV Show (While Also in an Actual Cult!) by Bethany Joy Lenz https://www.amazon.com/Dinner-Vampires-Life-While-Actual/dp/1668067307 Follow Bethany Joy Lenz →https://www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/ The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente Website: www.markvicente.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/ X: https://x.com/markvicente TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

We discuss the shocking memoir of One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy Lenz, who was in a cult for over a decade.  We also have a special guest, the person who recommended this book, Alayne!

Finished the Book! Go Fund Me for Publishing Culting of America: https://tr.ee/FTOBLyQnYo Autographed book: https://uncultureyourself.com/pages/uncultured-autographed From Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/104058/9781250280114 Daniella’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GroupBehaviorGal Daniella’s Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@KnittingCultLady Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuFRBZ2w3QsYs7Km69keHsg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/daniellamyoung_/ Hey White Women Podcast: https://tr.ee/2gWVBFaYnp\ Cults and the Culting of America Podcast: https://sites.libsyn.com/534892/site White Women Get Ready: https://www.mistresssyndrome.com/book SAVE ACT, MAGA CULT and Amassing troops in Panama and firing leaders in Greenland We are probably going to actually have some kind of resistance While we were all yelling about martial law and throwing a big parade, they took our voting rights and tried to start a war. If Donald trump can keep you in your house on easter, you should think about that We, white america, needs to figure out why he is president, as much as we need to figure out how to remove him or to survive his presidency. I think we have entered a new America–i actually think the internet and the patriot act were the beginning of the end. Not running away, Mr. Knitting Cult Lady to protest congress; going to need to figure out how to get my army of Amy’s going The apocalyptic panic and white privilege involved Milsplaining so tired–it’s the death of expertise. DIfference between a guru and an expert. Did Shimmer and Shine dance with my kid–check out the video, also figured out this thing about why it’s culty. Did a two hour interview in spanish, voces–wowza. Going to be doing more. Now officially going to be working on the musical and also the children’s books, and building my writing class Psyop outfit and I am not a Dragon Arrest of Konstantin Rudnev in Argentina Konstantin Rudnev, a convicted Russian cult leader who claimed to be an alien called the “Great Shaman," was arrested in Argentina while attempting to flee to Brazil. Rudnev, 57, had previously been sentenced to 11 years in a Siberian prison for rape and running a sex cult. He now faces fresh charges, including human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and drug offenses. Rudnev founded the Ashram Shambala cult in 1989, manipulating mostly female followers into surrendering their assets and engaging in coerced sexual rituals. The arrest was triggered by the discovery of a frightened and malnourished young pregnant Russian woman, sparking suspicions of abuse and underage involvement. Bethany Joy Lenz's Memoir Resonates with Abuse Survivors Actress Bethany Joy Lenz, known for her role on “One Tree Hill,” has been receiving daily messages from women in abusive relationships following the release of her memoir, “Dinner with Vampires.” In the book, Lenz details her decade-long experience in a controlling religious cult while working on the hit TV series. Her candid revelations about emotional abuse and manipulation have resonated deeply with readers, empowering many to confront their own situations. Some of the Zizians have had court appearances related to their alleged crimes SFGate has a headline reading Zizians Bay Area court appearance descends into chaos which seems on brand for a group that tried to kill someone with a samurai sword. One of the members of the cult who is transgender has been vocal about these trials being an effort to force her to detransition, which is interesting because she’s right about the pervasiveness of antitrans thinking, but the crimes were real. Could be that Ziz took advantage of her reasonable fears and manipulated them. Dallas observer has an article about Homestead Heretige, another case of a possible cult (but definitely fringe religious group) in plane sight. It has a “cheese cave” (a cheese aging facility) which is advertised with billboards along the highway. The have a bunch of attractions that give off a homesteady vibe for folks who want low commitment tradlife vibes for a day or so. According to the article, the group claims their attractions draw hundreds of thousands of visitors a year, which is possible but also we can’t trust the numbers put out by a suspected cult. KNit picking

Bethany Joy Lenz’s acting career took off in 2003, when she got the role of Haley James Scott on the hit show One Tree Hill. Fans of the Wilmington-based show didn’t know that while Lenz enjoyed success on-screen, her personal life was being manipulated by leaders of a religious cult. Lenz’s bestselling 2024 memoir, Dinner for Vampires, details how she was lured into ‘The Family’ and later found the courage to escape with her daughter. Years later, Lenz has now become a Queen, in a city that feels like home. #podcast #onetreehill @msbethanyjoylenz @DramaQueens_Pod #wilmingtonnc #bethanyjoylenz @JonEvansTV #actor #television

Bethany Joy Lenz (https://www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/?hl=en) ’s acting career took off in 2003, when she got the role of Haley James Scott on the hit show One Tree Hill (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0368530/) . Fans of the Wilmington-based show didn’t know that while Lenz enjoyed success on-screen, her personal life was being manipulated by leaders of a religious cult. Lenz’s bestselling 2024 memoir, Dinner for Vampires (https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Dinner-for-Vampires/Bethany-Joy-Lenz/9781668067307) , details how she was lured into ‘The Family’ and later found the courage to escape with her daughter. Years later, Lenz has now become a Queen (https://ncazaleafestival.org/past-queens/) , in a city that feels like home.

On today’s episode, we’re reviewing the witty and dark memoir: Dinner for Vampires: by Bethany Joy Lenz. We’re all about nostalgia on this one.. Could a more perfect Haley James Scott exist?? And all while going through an absolute nightmare in her personal life. Tune in to hear us discuss the audacity of these cult leaders, the overwhelming amount of religion and, of course, the connections to a cult favorite TV show. CONTAINS SPOILERSMake sure to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @fullybookedcaffpod. Thanks for listening!

Watch Part 1: https://youtu.be/idrKmytaYdU?si=DCq0RJtPQXHnjuYW In the early 2000s, after years of hard work and determination to break through as an actor, Bethany Joy Lenz was finally cast as one of the leads on the hit drama One Tree Hill. Her acting career was set to soar, but her personal life was beginning to unravel in ways her fans could never imagine. Unknown to the millions of viewers and even her costars, Lenz led a secret double life within a cult. As an only chiId seeking belonging, Lenz thought she found a safe haven in a Bible study group with fellow Hollywood creatives. However, the group morphed into something more sinister—a web of manipulation and fear under the guise of a church covenant called The Big House Family. Piece by piece, Lenz surrendered her autonomy, eventually moving to the Family’s Pacific Northwest compound overseen by a domineering minister who convinced her to marry his son and secretly drained millions from her TV income without her knowledge. Family “minders” assigned to her on set, “Maoist struggle session”—inspired meetings in the basement of a filthy house, and regular counseling with “Leadership” were just part of the tactics used to keep her loyal. Only when she became a mother did Lenz find the courage to escape and spare her chiId from a similar fate. After nearly a decade (and with the unlikely help from a devoted One Tree Hill fan), she broke free from the family’s grip, beginning her healing journey from deep trauma that reshaped her faith and identity. The One Tree Hill star opens up about everything in her New York Times bestselling memoir, Dinner for Vampires. Find Bethany Joy Lenz & her book: www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/ www.modernvintagelife.com https://linktr.ee/bethanyjoylenz We want to meet you in real life! Come adventure with us on our 2nd C2C VACATION! Click here to go to the official booking page: https://trovatrip.com/trip/north-america/mexico/mexico-with-shelise-sola-oct-2025 Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@CultstoConsciousnessClips Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! https://cults-to-consciousness-shop.fourthwall.com/en-usd Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness https://www.instagram.com/cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann https://www.instagram.com/sheliseann/ Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness https://www.tiktok.com/@cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon https://twitter.com/cultstocon Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**

In the early 2000s, after years of hard work and determination to break through as an actor, Bethany Joy Lenz was finally cast as one of the leads on the hit drama One Tree Hill. Her acting career was set to soar, but her personal life was beginning to unravel in ways her fans could never imagine. Unknown to the millions of viewers and even her costars, Lenz led a secret double life within a cult. As an only chiId seeking belonging, Lenz thought she found a safe haven in a Bible study group with fellow Hollywood creatives. However, the group morphed into something more sinister—a web of manipulation and fear under the guise of a church covenant called The Big House Family. Piece by piece, Lenz surrendered her autonomy, eventually moving to the Family’s Pacific Northwest compound overseen by a domineering minister who convinced her to marry his son and secretly drained millions from her TV income without her knowledge. Family “minders” assigned to her on set, “Maoist struggle session”—inspired meetings in the basement of a filthy house, and regular counseling with “Leadership” were just part of the tactics used to keep her loyal. Only when she became a mother did Lenz find the courage to escape and spare her chiId from a similar fate. After nearly a decade (and with the unlikely help from a devoted One Tree Hill fan), she broke free from the family’s grip, beginning her healing journey from deep trauma that reshaped her faith and identity. The One Tree Hill star opens up about everything in her New York Times bestselling memoir, Dinner for Vampires. Find Bethany Joy Lenz & her book: www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/ https://linktr.ee/bethanyjoylenz We want to meet you in real life! Come adventure with us on our 2nd C2C VACATION! Click here to go to the official booking page: https://trovatrip.com/trip/north-america/mexico/mexico-with-shelise-sola-oct-2025 Subscribe to our C2C "CLIPS" Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@CultstoConsciousnessClips Support C2C - Any donations are welcome and appreciated to support the making of this podcast. Find our FULL (uncensored) merch store here! https://cults-to-consciousness-shop.fourthwall.com/en-usd Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cultstoconsciousness Venmo @sheliseann Find us on Social media! Instagram @cultstoconsciousness https://www.instagram.com/cultstoconsciousness Host Instagram @sheliseann https://www.instagram.com/sheliseann/ Co Producer / Host @jonathan.rosales_ https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.rosales_ TikTok @cults.to.consciousness https://www.tiktok.com/@cults.to.consciousness Twitter @cultstocon https://twitter.com/cultstocon Chapter Marks 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:00 Joy Dives into Her ChiIdhood and Early Religious Experiences 00:07:41 Joy Explains the Way Being an Actress Affected Her Religious Life 00:13:16 Joy’s Very Positive Experience with a Home Church in New York 00:18:25 Joy’s Introduction to the Home Church Cult in LA & Red Flag Moments 00:24:14 Joy Expounds on the Cult's Manipulation & Giving Up Her Autonomy 00:29:39 Joy Shares How She Changed and How Others in Her Life Reacted 00:34:01 Joy Shares Her Balancing of Religion and Acting and Discusses Mormonism With Shelise 00:40:07 Joy Talks About Cult Behaviors, Hierarchies, & Need for Control 00:44:56 Joy Shares Her Perspective on Fear 00:50:33 Linda, Listen Theme Song Produced and Composed by Christian Guevara **Disclaimer: Thanks for joining us at Cults to Consciousness. This storytelling podcast is meant to be for entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. We may discuss triggering topics and we ask that you make your personal mental health a priority. Lastly, the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host.**

Bethany Joy Lenz spent a decade in a cult—now, she’s revealing the shocking truths she uncovered, the mind games that kept her trapped, and the lessons that changed her forever. In this episode, she opens up about manipulation, control, and the road to freedom and what Jesus teaches all of us through it. CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices)

Bethany Joy Lenz opens up with host, Patrick Custer, in this powerful interview where they discuss untapped, dynamic perspectives into her life’s story. Bethany reflects on growing up in a conservative Christian household and discovering her passion for acting at a young age. She also shares her experience navigating the entertainment industry while being part of a high-demand religious group she now recognizes as a cult. As they explore her experiences, Bethany opens up about the challenges of balancing fame during her time on One Tree Hill with the pressures of a controlling environment that blurred the lines between faith and manipulation. She shares deeply personal insights into the struggles of feeling disconnected from God, the weight of living up to others’ expectations, and the process of reclaiming her sense of self. The conversation touches on themes of coercion, healing from shame, and the transformative power of self-discovery. Bethany’s story is an inspiring reminder of the freedom that comes with embracing authenticity and breaking free from the constraints of control. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! Watch/Listen/Subscribe: ⁠⁠@rootedrecoverystories Insta: ⁠@rootedrecoverystories Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RootedRecoveryStories/ URL: ⁠https://www.rootedrecoverystories.com⁠ __________________ Resources: Insta: ⁠@mentalhealthamerica URL: https://⁠www.mhanational.org⁠ Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma: Insta: ⁠@promises_bh URL: ⁠https://www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com⁠ Follow Patrick Custer! Insta: @patrick_custer Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject Follow Bethany Joy Lenz! Insta: @msbethanyjoylenz About Bethany Joy Lenz: Bethany Joy Lenz is an accomplished and award-winning actress and director. She is also a singer, composer, librettist, author, producer, fine artist, and publisher who is most recognizable from her nine-year run on the TV drama One Tree Hill. She has been nominated for an Ambie award and featured in The New York Times, Variety, People and The Hollywood Reporter, among others. Lenz lives in Nashville with her daughter and their three dogs. Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" in Nashville, TN! Visit us today at https://www.thecastcollective.com Email: info@thecastcollective.com Follow The Cast Collective on Instagram & Twitter! Instagram: @TheCastCollective Twitter: @TheCastCollective Keywords: trauma, recovery, podcast, mental health, rooted recovery stories, mental health podcast, trauma podcast, anxiety podcast, recovery podcast, coping mechanisms, nashville, trauma, podcast, interview, addiction, alcohol abuse, family, sobriety, help, therapy

Bethany Joy Lenz, star of One Tree Hill, opens up about one of the most harrowing chapters of her life—being drawn into a spiritual cult. In a candid conversation, she shares how a combination of intense personal loneliness and the search for belonging made her vulnerable to manipulation. Joy reveals the psychological and emotional tactics used to control her, how the leader exploited her trust, and the dangerous effects of losing autonomy in a groupthink environment. With deep honesty, she discusses the moment of clarity that allowed her to break free, reclaim her power, and reconnect with her true self. This is a story of survival, strength, and the courage to break free from the grip of toxic control. From faith to fame, discover how Joy navigated the spiritual minefield that could have derailed her life and career, and how she emerged stronger and wiser than ever before.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

🛎 If You're New Subscribe ► https://www.youtube.com/@DearChelseaPod Escaping a Cult with Bethany Joy Lenz | Dear Chelsea One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy Lenz joins Chelsea to discuss what it was like to fall prey to a religious cult, to be taken for every penny she had, and finally find small moments of joy after escaping their grasp. Then: A child of powerful members of a *certain religious organization* works to accept that she may have lost her parents forever. * Need some advice from Chelsea? Email us at DearChelseaPodcast@gmail.com * Executive Producer Catherine Law Edited & Engineered by Brad Dickert * * * * * The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the Podcast author, or individuals participating in the Podcast, and do not represent the opinions of iHeartMedia or its employees. This Podcast should not be used as medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counseling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. Individuals are advised to seek independent medical, counseling advice and/or therapy from a competent health care professional with respect to any medical condition, mental health issues, health inquiry or matter, including matters discussed on this Podcast. Guests and listeners should not rely on matters discussed in the Podcast and shall not act or shall refrain from acting based on information contained in the Podcast without first seeking independent medical advice. Original Air Date: December 12, 2024 ❤️ iHeartRadio » https://bitly.cx/TznP 📢 APPLE PODCASTS » https://bitly.cx/2sl2G 🟢 SPOTIFY » https://bitly.cx/oSq9 🎥 PREVIOUS VIDEO » https://youtu.be/IHcjN7HrimQ ✨ KEEP IN TOUCH WITH : INSTAGRAM » https://www.instagram.com/chelseahandler/ TWITTER » https://x.com/chelseahandler FACEBOOK » https://www.facebook.com/chelseahandler On this weekly advice show, comedian & author Chelsea Handler answers listener questions with the hilarious edge you know her for. Joined each week by co-host Catherine Law and celebrity guests, Chelsea never shies away from giving her honest opinion on everything from love, sex and weed to family issues or losing a loved one. Every episode takes you on a ride from funny and informative to inspirational and heartbreaking – and back again. Do you need advice from Chelsea? Send us your question at: DearChelseaPodcast@gmail.com New episodes weekly on iHeartRadio. Tags #DearChelsea #DearChelseaPod #DearChelseaPodcast #ChelseaHandler #ChelseaHandlerPodcast #ChelseaHandlerPod #ChelseaHandlerYoutubePodcast  #iHeartPodcasts #iHeart #Podcast #Podcasttolisten #YoutubePodcast #NewPodcast

In this episode of Melissa Rivers' Group Text, actress, singer, and author Bethany Joy Lenz opens up about her time on the hit TV show One Tree Hill while secretly navigating life in a controlling religious cult known as "The Big House Family." Bethany shares how the cult's leader manipulated her, exploited her finances, and exerted control over her personal and professional life, even as she starred in a beloved teen drama. She also discusses her new book, Dinner for Vampires, which details her harrowing experiences and the slow, calculated manipulation that kept her entangled for years. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation about resilience, recovery, and reclaiming her life. Don't miss this gripping episode filled with honesty, introspection, and inspiration. Dive deeper into the Group Text: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfuCvhA6AxWr3LM7PPv7oThqsStssDEg6 Melissa Rivers’ Group Text merch: ► https://shop.hurrdatmedia.com/collections/melissa-rivers-group-text-collection Shop the NEW Joan Rivers' Collection: ► https://www.joanrivers.com/shop/ *FOLLOW MELISSA RIVERS* Instagram: ► https://www.instagram.com/melissariversofficial/ Facebook: ► https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMelissaRivers/ Twitter: ► https://twitter.com/MelRivers *FOLLOW BETHANY JOY LENZ* Instagram: ► https://www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/ GEAR WE USE TO MAKE PODCASTS: https://amzn.to/4dg7uZF SOFTWARE WE USE TO MAKE PODCASTS: https://hurrdatmedia.com/our-gear/ A Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a digital media and commercial video production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network and learn more about our other services today on HurrdatMedia.com. http://hurrdatmedia.com/ 00:00 Bethany Joy Lenz Joins Melissa Rivers on Group Text 01:44 Bethany’s Childhood and Path to Acting Success 04:21 Joining a Bible Group: The Start of a Dangerous Journey 09:52 Inside “The Big House”: Les’s Subtle Manipulations 16:14 Isolation and Emotional Control in the Cult 18:55 Balancing Acting Career with Cult Life During One Tree Hill 19:09 Challenges of Navigating Hollywood as a Young Star 22:07 Financial Manipulation Within the Group 23:03 Marriage, Cult Influence, and Losing Financial Independence 27:53 Motherhood and the Eye-Opening Realizations That Followed 29:59 Breaking Free: Leaving the Group and Co-Parenting Struggles 31:21 Healing Through “Drama Queens” Podcast and Reclaiming the Past 33:33 Bethany’s Latest Projects: Book, Music, and Modern Vintage News 36:36 How Bethany Manages Her Jam-Packed Life #bethanyjoylenz #onetreehill #onetreehillcast #cultsurvivor #religiouscult #thebighousefamily #dinnerforvampires #bethanyjoylenzinterview #melissarivers #grouptextpodcast #melissariverspodcast #cultmanipulation #cultrecovery #reclaiminglife #cultstories #resiliencejourney #teenactorstories #actressinterview #celebrityinterviews #hollywoodsecrets #podcast

This week we are transported to Tree Hill, North Carolina thanks to Bethany Joy Lenz's memoir. The actress, best known for her role as Haley on One Tree Hill, has written a vulnerable and honest account of her time in a religious cult. We talk about the power of high control groups, how to recognize gaslighting, and how her story shed new light on her role on a fan favorite show. We discuss the iconic TV show, the rewatch podcast, and our hopes for Lenz in the future. In our catch up this week, Kaitlin shares about her first few nights in her new house, Steph shows gratitude as her first season volunteering at the barn winds down, and Molly gushes about Steph's cooking at Friendsgiving. In what we're reading this week, Kaitlin is starting a thriller, Steph returns to an author whose prose always moves us, and Molly devours a small town romance. To follow along with all of our book recommendations, join us on Instagram @plansarebooked. You can also write to us at plansarebooked@gmail.com.