Today we sit down with ex-Scientologist and Youtuber Chris Shelton to discuss a brief history of Scientology – with a focus on parallels between Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard and Mormon church founder Joseph Smith.
This interview is the first in a series of 4 interviews with Chris as we will follow the chronological history of Scientology and draw parallels between the founding of both churches, and draw comparisons between their modern-day presences.
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All of our interviews with Chris may be found here:
- 1189-1191: Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard, and the Parallels to the Beginnings of Mormonism – Chris Shelton
- 1192-1194: David Miscavige and the Rise of Modern Scientology – Chris Shelton
- 1195-1198: My Life as a Scientologist – Chris Shelton
- 1199-1202: Leaving Scientology and Becoming an Ex-Scientology Activist – Chris Shelton
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Part 1:
Part 2:
Part 3:
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
5 Responses
Just wow, incredible podcast. Chris is a master historian.
I LOVE this! These series where you explore other religions/cults are just fascinating. Also, I happen to have just read Leah Remini’s book, so very timely for me.
Interesting to note that “markab” means “boat” in Arabic. Maybe just a coincidence.
This was so eye opening to hear all of the parallels between Joseph Smith and L. Ron Hubbard and see the patterns between these two religions. I really enjoyed this podcast. Keep doing what you do John! You are making a big positive difference in so many people’s lives including mine and for that I thank you.
Great podcast. I’ve been following Chris for about 2 years now and he’s a walking Scientology Encyclopedia. He knows everything there is to know.