How not to start a cult

Suffering from too much charisma? Wondering why your “tribe” feels a little bit weird? We’re here to help, spiritual seekers. Don’t be a guru. Don’t be a follower. Cult proof yourself.

Seriously though: Everyone’s susceptible to seduction and manipulation. But it’s not so obvious how that works. We know some of the pitfalls of the self-help world and want to make it a safer place for all of us. Let’s start by spotting the red flags around coercive group dynamics.

This 2-hour workshop is part engaging talk by journalist Anke Richter and part interactive discussion, based on her cult research and her personal experience with many new-age groups. After touring it at Kiwiburn, Convergence, Earth Beat and Relish this year, she wants to share it with the Ōtautahi community. It is suited for emerging facilitators as well as anyone who ever attended a workshop, retreat, training, or festival. And especially for those curious about the neo-tantra or “conscious sexuality” scene.

MEET THE TEAM:

Anke is a cult researcher, festival goer, workshop junkie and bestselling author of “Cult Trip: Inside the world of coercion & control” (HarperCollins). It was named one of the ten best non-fiction books of 2022 by Newsroom. Find out more on www.ankerichter.net

Bear is a facilitator of numerous workshops and men’s groups and will assist at the event. Join us to become more cult aware! 

Doors open from 6.30 pm. Copies of CULT TRIP will be available on the night with a special discount ($30 - cash or bank transfer only).