Ep.9 The Raëlian Movement

A French racecar driver walks into a volcano and comes out a prophet. That’s how the story begins. What follows is one of the most unusual and controversial new religions of the modern era. In this episode, we explore the rise of the Raëlian Movement, a UFO-based faith that claims humanity was created by extraterrestrials known as the Elohim. Guided by their messenger Raël, followers embrace a future of cloning, interstellar contact, and global peace through sensual meditation. But behind the smiling photos and sci-fi optimism lies a story that raises deep questions about belief, identity, and the line between revelation and reinvention.

Part 1 – The Vision on the Volcano: The Birth of Raël
Part 2 – Clones, Controversy, and the Global Spread of a Message
Part 3 – Circles Within Circles: Ritual, Rank, and the Global Machine
Part 4 – Public Spectacle: Protest, Provocation, and Performance
Part 5 – Waiting for the Sky to Open: Faith, Friction, and the Messenger’s Shadow

New episodes weekly.
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Listen on all podcast apps:
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https://open.spotify.com/show/4Q0kbgXrdzP0TvIk5xylx1
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hidden-cults/id1816362029

International Resources

International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA)
https://www.icsahome.com
Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.
Open Minds Foundation
https://www.openmindsfoundation.org
Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.
The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse)
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📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.
Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan)
https://freedomofmind.com
Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.
FaithTrust Institute
https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org
Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.
United States

Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA)
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Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.
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Canada

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Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.org
Phone: 📞 514-274-2333
Email: [email protected]
Canada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.
Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French.

United Kingdom

The Family Survival Trust
https://familysurvivaltrust.org
Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.
Cults Information Centre and Family Support
https://cults.org.uk
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Mind UK (Mental Health Support)
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Australia

Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS)
https://www.cifs.org.au
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