Carli McConkey was a naive 21yr old seeking self-improvement when she was recruited into a new age cult where she spent over 13yrs trapped and enslaved. Carli bravely shares her experience of being manipulated, coerced, and abused, explaining the psychological tactics employed by cult leaders to maintain control.

After finally escaping, Carli’s struggles continued when she fought and won a defamation lawsuit brought upon her by her former cult leader. She also shares her frustration that her cult leader is currently a registered psychologist in Australia and the UK, despite regulatory bodies in both countries being made aware of the judges' rulings in this case.

Carli sheds light on the complexities of recovery from cult abuse. Through sharing her story, she educates us about the red flags of cults, and highlights the importance of professionals being equipped to support cult survivors in the aftermath of their experience.

For support and websites referenced in this episode:

Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) Australia

https://www.cifs.org.au/

Cult Education Institute (Rick Ross)

https://culteducation.com/

Connect with Carli

www.carlimcconkey.com

The recent World Happiness Report highlights a striking link between social trust and voting preferences, revealing that individuals with low social trust are more prone to supporting right-wing political parties.

In this episode, I dive into this fascinating finding, which highlights how our personal dissatisfaction with life often translates into political choices that can influence societal outcomes.

It’s a wake-up call for all of us to reflect on our role in fostering social connections and trust within our communities. Despite our natural pessimism about kindness, studies show that people generally underestimate the empathy and support available around them.

We have the power to change this narrative—by actively nurturing trust and connection, we can improve not only our own well-being but also the fabric of our society.

Takeaways:

• The World Happiness Report indicates that low social trust correlates with voting for right-wing parties.
• Individuals with lower satisfaction in life tend to reject traditional political systems and seek alternatives.
• Social connection is vital for our happiness, health, and longevity, and we must prioritise it.
• Many young adults feel they lack social support, often underestimating the kindness of others around them.
• Our perceptions of others' empathy significantly influence our willingness to connect and engage socially.
• Rebuilding social trust requires individual responsibility in recognising the goodness in others and fostering connections.

Links:

World Happiness Report 2025

Connect with Cass

Email: hello@crappytohappypod.com

www.crappytohappypod.com

www.instagram.com/crappytohappypod

www.tiktok.com/@crappytohappypod

Subscribe to Cass's Newsletter

https://cassdunn.substack.com

Your feedback is important!

To receive a FREE subscription to Beyond Happy, the subscriber only podcast and community, please take a minute to fill in our listener survey so we can keep making the show the best it can be.

www.crappytohappypod.com/survey

Amie McNee joins me in the studio to share her insights on the transformative power of creativity and the importance of claiming your artistic voice. Her new book, "We Need Your Art", is a rallying cry for those who feel they aren't "real" artists and encourages everyone to embrace their creative impulses.

Amie passionately argues that art is not just for the privileged few; it's an essential part of the human experience that everyone can and should engage in. Throughout our conversation, we delve into how creativity can heal both individuals and communities, and the vital role it plays in our overall well-being. If you’ve ever hesitated to share your art or doubted your creativity, this episode is a must-listen for you—because trust us, we need your art!

Takeaways:

• Everyone should embrace their creativity and express themselves artistically, regardless of their perceived talent.
• Art is not merely a hobby but a vital part of the human experience that fosters connection and change.
• The act of creating can be a powerful tool for personal healing and community building, challenging societal norms that dismiss its importance.
• Overcoming perfectionism and sharing 'shitty art' can help individuals reclaim their creative power and confidence in their abilities.

Connect with Amie:

www.amiemcnee.com

https://amiemcnee.substack.com/

Connect with Cass:

email: hello@crappytohappypod.com

www.crappytohappypod.com or www.cassdunn.com

Join my Substack:

https://cassdunn.substack.com

I need your help! Please help me to improve the show my taking a few minutes to complete my listener survey. I promise I'll send you something nice.

www.crappytohappypod.com/survey