Beyond Zion

12/01/2024

What are your favorite podcast? To help I love Joyce Meyer, Southern Fried True Crime, Crime Scene Brewery and Her Renewed Strength. That tells you the type I listen to but I am open to other genres. TIA for your suggestions.

24/10/2023

We're back with yet another special literary edition! For this bonus episode, we're celebrating the recent launch of the book "Forager: Field Notes for Surviving a Family Cult." It's out now in bookstores and on Amazon. The author, Michelle, was raised in an end-times group that was started by her g...

24/10/2023

Please take the time to read this insightful blog on one survivor's learnings through education and healing...

Victim Shaming - Who does it help? Who does it hurt?

12/10/2023

Good evening! I will make a seperate post about my long time absence another day. I want to shine some light on something new that has happened and want everyone to give it the love and attention that it deserves! I will be linking the website on www.beyondzion.org as well. Please visit and support
www.thewayouttofreedom.com
The couple behind this website/organization are near and dear to me and also came out of Remnant Fellowship. Like me, they want to help support those coming out of cults or have left a cult and need direction and support. I am so happy to be connecting with them after all of these years. I'm even more excited with what they are doing!

Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest - Psalm 55:6

16/08/2022

Please give this page a like and follow! Ashlen Hilliard is absolutely amazing and incredibly knowledgeable. I am sure we can all find something on her page that will speak to us or teach us something new.

I was so excited to present my MSc Psychology of Coercive Control research on reproductive coercion in cults and destructive group settings.

If you missed the webinar, here is a link to watch the recording of my presentation (Q&A was not recorded): https://bit.ly/RCwebinarrecording

As always, thank you so much for your continued support!

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About this presentation:

You are invited to join us for a very timely discussion on reproductive coercion and cults.

With the reversal of Roe vs. Wade, this is not only a timely but a critical subject area to explore with a population that is often stigmatized and in need of support and recovery resources.

The first segment of this webinar will be a presentation of research conducted by Ashlen Hilliard in fulfillment of the MSc Psychology of Coercive Control Program on the relationship between reproductive coercion, psychologically abusive environments, and the extent of group identity in a sample of those who have left cultic groups.

Ashlen’s research is the first exploratory analysis of the complex experiences of individuals who have experienced reproductive coercion while under the influence of a cultic or destructive group setting. Her research fills an identifiable gap in the literature by specifically studying how reproductive coercion manifests in destructive group settings, which has only been anecdotally alluded to from survivor accounts.

Following the presentation of Ashlen's research findings, an opportunity for Q&A will be available. We understand that this can be a difficult topic, and we are grateful that therapist Doni Whitsett, PhD, LCSW, MFT will be joining Ashlen Hilliard as a discussant for the Q&A session.

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Presenter Information:

Ashlen Hilliard is a cult intervention specialist helping families with loved ones in cultic or high-control groups or relationships and is the face behind People Leave Cults. She completed her MSc in the Psychology of Coercive Control in early 2022 and conducted research on the relationship between reproductive coercion, psychologically abusive environments, and the extent of group identity in a sample of those who have left cultic groups. Ashlen has previous experience working for multiple non-profit settings in the field of cult recovery. Most recently, this has included working as Director of Events for the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA). During that time, she facilitated workshops, webinars, and conferences for those in touch with multiple aspects of the cult phenomenon including therapists, former members, legal professionals, media representatives, academics, and others. Previous to her work with ICSA, she also worked as a case manager in Salt Lake City, Utah, for the non-profit Holding Out Help, where she was involved in the front lines of helping individuals leaving diverse polygamist communities out West. She currently enjoys living in Portland, Oregon where she is a volunteer co-organizer of the Spiritual Abuse Forum for Education (SAFE) Meetup for those who have left or are considering leaving high-demand religious groups in the local community.

30/07/2022

I created an online scheduling system for anyone that wants. To reach out and speak to me! I don't want to miss anymore calls or messages. Please visit www.beyondzion.org to schedule!

30/07/2022

To ensure that I don't miss any messages I have signed up for an online calendar where you can schedule one on one meetings with me. I have the link posted on the website as well. Hopefully this will make it easier for people who want to reach out!

https://calendly.com/beyondzion/30-to-60-minute-phone-conversation

Please leave your phone number and a summary of what you would like to discuss during our touch base.

26/07/2022

What all is involved in working with individuals with loved ones in destructive settings?

In this word map, you may notice words such as "chaos" or phrases such as "bring the temp down".

I am often presented with complex information and differing perspectives from family members about their loved one's situation. Unfortunately, cult involvement can create chaos for family systems. Some of the ways in which chaos can be countered include patience, techniques for de-escalation, and destigmatization of the individual in a destructive group setting.

I thought that I would share a word map that brand designer (.twice) and I collaborated on to help provide a glimpse into the complexities involved which helped inspire her design process.

What words stand out to you the most?

23/07/2022

I will be going live on The Cult Vault's live stream at 930pm! Here are the links for you to watch!
Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/CultVault
Twitter - https://twitter.com/cultvaultpod
page - https://www.facebook.com/CultVaultPod/

Here is the link to donate as well -
Donation Link - https://gofund.me/95c1d5ea - please consider sharing far and wide

Hello, My name is Kacey, and I am the host of the Cult Vault Podcast. … Kacey Cult Vault needs your support for Cult Vault Podcast & Sound Choices Coalition

19/07/2022

The Cult Vault podcast is doing a 12 hour live stream on Friday. There are A LOT of amazing people from the cult studies/recovery world participating!

12/07/2022

https://twitter.com/CultNEWS101/status/1546659970803912704?t=-nuwXuUYn8jf8jIO1uRibQ&s=19

If you want to make change and educate, here is an opportunity to do so!

“Survivors & Professionals Wanted for Research Study on Abuse & Coercive Control! PROS - If you are a professional working in law enforcement, civil rights, family law, criminal justice, mental health, or if you come into contact regularly with people who…https://t.co/aTK4qFdrM5”

30/06/2022

Meetup for Second and Multigenerational Adult Former Cult Members (SGAs/MGAs) on July 5th at 2pm Eastern Time.

The meetup will begin with a fun “Ask us Anything” (AMA) session with Author Lisa Kohn and Cult Intervention Specialist Ashlen Hilliard.

To learn more about Lisa: https://www.lisakohnwrites.com/

To learn more about Ashlen: https://www.peopleleavecults.com/

We look forward to answering any questions you have!

A chance for general discussion will also be available. We would love to connect and hear about your experience at the recent ICSA Annual Conference, and what other topics you are seeking to hear more about at future meetups.

Date and Zoom Link:

Our first meetup will be on July 5th at 2pm Eastern Time.

Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/93430115007?pwd=Sm9zOHlBbU1CNUMzZ0ZPYWRyQ2JXUT09

Meeting ID: 934 3011 5007; Passcode: 1jzGrS

30/06/2022

Shara Carter from Shara Smile LLC has reached out and offered her services to anyone in need. She is located in the Franklin/Nashville area.

Her website is www.sharasmile.com

If you are in need of counseling or haven't find the right fit yet, reach out to Shara and see if she's what you need!

Striving to help each and every person develop their mental and relational well-being by helping them find and grow their own peace through self-love and self-discovery; ultimately leading to a connected and content life. Client Portal Login Schedule an Appointment https://player.vimeo.com/video/...

22/06/2022

Beyond Zion was created in March 2021 by a survivor of a highly abusive and controlling religious organization. After 15 years of silence and suffering, the trauma and pain became a deep desire to help those who may be lost and need a way out.

16/05/2022

In case anyone may be interested, I have started a support group here on Facebook. It is open to anyone affected by high control groups or anyone that has left a high control group. There are a handful of people from Remnant and a handful of people from Xenos and other high control groups as well. There of course is a screening before you join to protect those that are already in the group. It is a place for all to feel safe to express their feelings, experiences and to ask for help if that is what is needed. You also have the option of posting anonymously if you're not ready to fully come forward. Please feel free to contact me through here or [email protected].

31/03/2022

People used to say I focus too much on abuse. They seem quiet now. It's all over the news now! To illustrate its prevalence, how many here have experienced spiritual abuse? If you don't want to reveal you yourself have, just say "I know someone!"

I know someone.

24/03/2022

More updates and some advice.

21/03/2022

This piece by a freelance writer gives a lot to think about. It outlines how hard it is to have autonomy in a lot of strict fringe groups. He also discusses the hardship of not having financial literacy and even trying to save money to escape his community. In the end he did it, but has learned a lot along the way.

Leaving behind everything he knew took a huge emotional toll, but there was also the issue of being financially unprepared to enter the secular world.

19/03/2022

Ava and Zachary - your mom wants you to know that she hasn't stopped loving you both. She did not give you up, no matter what you've been told. She has been trying to contact you for 10 years. Your mom has always wanted you with her and she was not a drug addict. If you want to contact her, please reach out to me, or email her - [email protected]

18/03/2022

Checking in to update everyone on the current state of Beyond Zion and those we are trying to help.

14/03/2022

What isn't talked about often is why people may not want to leave the cult they joined. In my experience, even though I left, I left with next to nothing, no home to go to, no way to provide for myself, etc. Unfortunately this still happens and this is why I started Beyond Zion. While I have made great connections and have been able to help those that ask, I do hit road blocks on occasion. RIght now I am seeking help for someone in the Albuquerque, New Mexico area and help for someone in North Carolina. Both situations are dire. The North Carolina person needs legal help and she is doing all that she can to get that, but keeps hitting blocks in the justice system. The New Mexico person needs to find a safe place to start rebuilding and recovering.

If anyone can help, please let me know. I'm using every connection I have and researching tirelessly. These two people are worthy of all of the help they are offered and a happy life away from the organizations that have been abusing them.

13/03/2022

https://youtu.be/Dr_NAbms3xk

It's coming!!! Mark your calendars everyone, these last two episodes are going to be GOOD. There are already three episodes ready to watch on HBO Max currently. You have time to get caught up and ready for the end!

About HBO Max:HBO Max is WarnerMedia’s direct-to-consumer offering with 10,000 hours of curated premium content. HBO Max offers powerhouse programming for ev...

03/03/2022

I asked Gunnar which mommy he preferred. The mommy now that hasn't showered and has been wearing the same clothes since Monday night, or clean mommy. I worry a lot that my mental health affects my children negatively which is why I asked. I started truly trying to heal myself at 35, and here I am at 38. I wanted to end it because I was just so tired of having to overcome obstacles and stand up under adversity constantly. Not because I don't love my husband, boys, myself and others. Life just got to be too much. I couldn't stop to breathe long enough to truly take care of myself.

Gunnar said that he preferred the mommy standing in front of him. The mommy that is probably smelly, the mommy that has been wearing the same clothes. The mommy who's hair is incredibly messy and greasy. This "messy" mommy is loving and caring for herself, even though it's a struggle. He loves that mommy the most. I love this mommy the most too. Just spending time with myself, my husband and my sons has helped me in so many ways. I could have swallowed that bottle of pills on my 38th birthday, but I chose myself first, my sons and my husband. I'm grateful for the love, the support, my nurse practitioner and my therapist. I'm grateful for me. I'm proud of me. In another chapter of my life this wouldn't be possible. This is what recovery looks like. It's ugly, it's beautiful, it's sad, full of joy, full of gratitude, full of anger, depressive, anxious and hopeful. It's complex but worth it in the end.

28/02/2022

I love how eye opening these videos are. Cult is a loaded word, yes. Not all cults are bad. However, any time you leave a group worse off than you were before...

Then you were in a high control organization, aka a cult. That's ok. We're not crazy for being a part of a cult. It happens. Never feel ashamed for something that was out of your control at the time you joined. Manipulation can be sneaky and succinct. It doesn't mean any of us are stupid. We're just normal people looking for answers and looking to be better people.

26/02/2022

Recent thoughts on Xenos/Dwell Community Church

With my experience with abusers and cults, it has never been their fault. Those of you that are survivors of abusive relationships and cults understand this and have experienced this. The accountability only comes from you, because you are the one lacking, not them. They gave you everything, did eve...

23/02/2022

Please take the time to watch and share. This is happening in Columbus, Ohio and has been for about 50 years. I grew up in Marion, Ohio and while I ended up in a totally different cult, it's crazy to think that this one was right under our noses.

The survivors of Xenos deserve to be heard and have their story told. They deserve to have someone stand up for them. Xenos has been dodging accountability and shaming the victims as well as trying to discredit me and Rafael. They can use whatever loopholes and fancy words they want to, the truth always wins in the end.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — NBC4 Investigates is looking into claims that a central Ohio church is functioning as a cult, as multiple former members are sharing their stories publicly. The former…

23/02/2022

In response to the Xenos/Dwell statements through the NBC4 Columbus, Ohio news.

The leaders say that they were not given enough evidence to refute and to know where they have gone wrong. They have not only taught their congregation this already, but they are posting it publicly as well. To protect the survivors that came forward, Rafael and I chose not to divulge every detail to the people that victimized them. Survivor safety and confidentiality is important to us, to me especially. In our Zoom meeting we had with Conrad and Kate back in December, I did lay out accusations clearly to them and through email dialogue afterwards. We were only given their policies and teachings along with in my opinion, a tone deaf video on mental health as well. The video is on their website, please know that if you have mental health issues, watching the video could be triggering.

I must ask you all - if you were truly doing what is right and following God explicitly, why the defensiveness? Why would so many people want to speak out? We only spoke to 10 people in total, but www.xenosisacult.com has almost 200 testimonies about what people suffered through while being in the church and after leaving. How many churches have this kind of pushback? Only the ones that are using manipulation and thought reform to retain members that ultimately feed the church with money, free labor, etc.

Since NBC4 released their investigation, I have been approached by two members so far that have left Xenos and are willing to share on a public platform. Rafael and I did not do a half ass investigation, Xenos is just dodging accountability and seriously lacking in self awareness as an organization. They want to control the narrative and when they can't, they cry foul. Does this sound familiar Remnant Fellowship survivors? This is exactly how Remnant has treated anyone who left. They control the narrative and fight back trying to discredit those of us that have come forward. What church/organization would do that?

NBC4 has already released two parts in their investigation. They air at 530pm and there are a few more parts to be released.

Xenos is a cult is a website built to explain how dangerous Xenos Christian Fellowship in Columbus, Ohio is to mental health.

04/02/2022

A cult survivor outlines the anatomy of an indoctrination.