In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac speaks with author Beth Granger about her powerful memoir Born and Raised. Beth shares her harrowing 30-year experience living in a cult, her journey toward healing and recovery, and how she ultimately broke free from coercive control. Together, they discuss the warning signs of cult dynamics, the psychological impact of manipulation, and the importance of trusting your intuition. This conversation offers powerful insights into resilience, survival, and recognizing unhealthy power structures.
What We’re Talking About…
- How cults often present themselves as elite, successful institutions to attract and control members
- The role of family relationships and how cult environments deliberately dismantle family ties
- Why trusting your intuition can be a powerful tool for recognizing and escaping coercive control
- The long journey of cult recovery and the importance of patience, healing, and self-compassion
- The need for vigilance in education systems to prevent manipulation, indoctrination, and abuse of power
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:28 Life in a Cult
07:26 The Impact of Cult Life
11:23 Family Dynamics and Separation
19:12 The Struggle to Speak Out
23:12 Advice for Cult Survivors
30:11 The Role of Support Systems
33:15 Reflections on Strength and Resilience
37:07 Education and Societal Concerns
40:44 Courage to Share: Beth’s Story
41:13 Understanding and Empathy: The Importance of Connection

