Sarah Edmondson was a young actress pursuing a career in film and television, when she hit a low point and was hoping to find a new purpose in life. She ran into renowned filmmaker, Mark Vicente, who spoke to her about NXIVM and eventually brought her into the organization. There she started following Keith Raniere and Nancy Salzman's mission. They encouraged Sarah to give her all. In part 1 of 2, we learn about how NXIVM's leadership undermined its followers and groomed them in such a conniving way, that no one knew what was happening to them. Sarah grew close to many members of the organization - which later turned out to be a cult, and even rose up in leadership. Listen to how Sarah's journey and newfound community helped her find a new meaning in life.

Host Information: 

Instagram: Dr Ramani's IG - @doctorramani

Facebook: Dr Ramani's FB - @doctorramani

Twitter: Dr Ramani's TW - @DoctorRamani 

YouTube: Dr. Ramani’s YT - DoctorRamani

Guest Information:

Instagram: Sarah Edmondson’s IG - @sarahedmondson

Facebook: Sarah Edmondson’s FB - Sarah Edmondson 

Twitter: Sarah Edmondson’s TW - @sarahjedmondson 

Book: Scarred

Podcast: A Little Bit Culty 

Guest Bio: 

Sarah is a working actor and artist. She is known for her role in NXIVM; which initially intrigued her with its promise to provide the tools and insight she needed to reach her potential. It all came into focus when she accepted an invitation to join DOS, a “secret sisterhood” within NXIVM. It was a decision that resulted in a front page bombshell in the New York Times featuring her story as a woman on a mission to shut NXIVM down.

Sarah published Scarred: The True Story of How I Escaped NXIVM, the Cult that Bound My Life. Sarah’s journey as a whistleblower has also been featured in “The Vow”, the critically acclaimed HBO documentary series. 

I want to hear from you, too. Have a toxic topic you want me to explore? Email me at askdrramani@redtabletalk.com  

I just might answer you questions on air. 

This podcast should not be used as a substitute for medical or mental health advice. Individuals are advised to seek independent medical advice, counseling, and/or therapy from a health care professional with respect to any medical condition, mental health issue, or health inquiry, including matters discussed on this podcast.

Navigating Narcissism is produced by Red Table Talk Podcasts. EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Jada Pinkett-Smith, Fallon Jethroe, Ellen Rakieten, and Dr. Ramani Durvasula. Also, PRODUCER: Matthew Jones, ASSOCIATE PRODUCER: Mara De La Rosa. EDITORS AND AUDIO MIXERS: Devin Donaghy and Calvin Bailiff.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.