13: The horrific sex cult inside NXIVM

Killers, Cults and Queens

Cheryl Hole and Nikki Druce are heading down a road they’ve never been before to the heinous sex cult Dominus Obsequious Sororium of NXIVM. Promoted as a self improvement community, NXIVM was an MLM of gargantuan proportions, allegedly giving advice to The Bronfman Sisters and even Richard Branson… but no one could have guessed the cruel underside ruled by sick leader Keith ‘Vanguard’ Raniere and Smallville actress Alison Mack. Who was Keith Reniere, and how did a self improvement company lead to the mutilation of almost a dozen women? Cheryl and Nikki are going to find out. Expect modern day cult behaviour, a very confused Chez, and some SERIOUSLY messed up behaviour.
This episode contains graphic details of violence, mental and physical abuse. This episode also comes with a trigger warning for those who are currently living with or recovering from an eating disorder. It is not intended for all audiences. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
For all things Killers, Cults and Queens, head over to @killerscultsqueens on Instagram. And follow Cheryl Hole @cherylholequeen and Nikki Druce @nikkimacabrelondon.
Produced by Alexandra Jueno at Audioboom Studios.
This episode is sponsored by Typology. Head to uk.typology.com/queens to claim a free lip and cheek balm worth £16 with your first purchase.
If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, please consider contacting the following resources:
The Samaritans helpline: 116 123
Confidential Emotional Support Line: 01708 765200
Refuge domestic abuse helpline: 0808 2000 247 (live chat is also available at https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/Contact-us *times apply)
Safeline domestic abuse helpline: 01926 402 498
Safeline national male survivor helpline: 0808 800 5005
Sexual Assault Support Line: 01708 765200
Sane mental health line: 0300 304 7000
MLM Checker: www.isthisanmlm.com
MLM Master List: www.mlmtruth.org
Beat Eating Disorder Support Lines, England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/get-help-for-myself/i-need-support-now/helplines/
The knowledge out there on this topic is vast, so if your interest is peaked by this episode please take a look at our sources:
NXIVM - Wikipedia
NXIVM. What the Media Won't Report.
The Rise & Fall of Allison Mack | Documentary
The Lost Women of NXIVM: Rumors vs. Reality
20/20 Apr 27 Part 1: Woman recalls being branded as part of joining secret society
Escaping NXIVM: Behind the investigation of the alleged sex cult
Catherine and India Oxenberg Recall NXIVM Experience & Recovery
The Man Who Blew the Whistle On Alleged Sex Cult Inside NXIVM (HBO)
Keith Raniere - Wikipedia
Nancy Salzman - Wikipedia
Allison Mack - Wikipedia
Emiliano Salinas - Wikipedia
Clare Bronfman - Wikipedia
Mega Society - Wikipedia
Multi-Level Marketing Businesses and Pyramid Schemes | Consumer Advice.
Sarah Edmonson, the Woman Branded
Nxivm Branding Was Scripted by Sex Cult Leader to Be ‘Like a Sacrifice’ - The New York Times
How NXIVM Seduced Hollywood Stars and America's Most Powerful Elite Into a Barbaric 'Sex Cult'
Allison Mack Forced NXIVM Sex Cult Members to Follow 500-Calorie-a-Day Diets, Witness Testifies
How NXIVM Used the Strange Power of Patents to Build Its “Sex Cult” | Vanity Fair