Deadly Faith

Laci Bean and Lola Robbins both deconstructed from religious backgrounds, and that personal history gives Deadly Faith a perspective you do not get from hosts who approach cults purely as outsiders. The show sits at the intersection of true crime and religious extremism, covering groups and leaders where faith becomes a weapon. With 113 episodes and weekly releases, they have built a solid catalog since launching in 2023. Their coverage spans the full spectrum of religious abuse -- from well-known groups like Heaven's Gate and Jonestown to smaller operations where a single charismatic pastor convinces a congregation to do terrible things. The NXIVM connection here is through the broader pattern of how high-control groups use spiritual or self-improvement language to justify abuse. Episodes on exorcisms gone wrong, apocalyptic movements, and leaders who claim divine authority are particularly gripping. The hosts balance investigative depth with genuine warmth. Laci and Lola have good chemistry, and they approach even the most disturbing material with a trauma-informed lens that acknowledges the human cost without being preachy about it. There is comedic relief woven in, but it never comes at the expense of victims. The show carries a 4.4-star rating and publishes through the Patheos Podcast Network, which gives it access to a community already engaged with questions about faith, power, and institutional harm. Episodes run about an hour and reward your full attention.