The director of the documentary series joins the show to discuss his experience in bringing the story of Shekinah Church and 7M to life. He explains why it was crucial to present the narrative from the perspective of former members. He also shares the cinematic influences that shaped the visual style of the series. Derek talks about how the documentary aims to support individuals facing similar struggles and describes the significant effort his team made, including traveling to Korea, to capture an emotional conversation between the Lee sisters.

Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.

*The following is based on actual events. Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, former Shekinah Church member Amanda shares her personal journey, beginning with her current emotional state and the reasons for finally sharing her story. She recounts her connection with the church and Robert Shinn, her meeting and marrying her husband there, and the support she expected from the community, as well as her various roles within the church.

The conversation then shifts to pivotal moments, such as her realization of Robert's true nature, her challenging wedding experience, and her husband’s evolving reaction to the accusations against Robert. Finally, we discuss the steps she took to protect herself from manipulation after leaving the church, along with insights on deprogramming, changes in her perspective on faith and community, and advice for those currently in or leaving cult-like situations.

Listener Note: This episode contains discussions of sexual abuse and trauma and may not be suitable for all listeners.

Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.

*The following is based on actual events. Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Quincee Gideon, a psychologist and therapist, about the factors that attract individuals to controlled communities and what drives them to seek escape. We examine Shekinah Church and 7M Films, highlighting how these organizations stand apart from other cult-like groups. Additionally, we provide insights into effective solutions and ways to support those entangled in high-control environments. Join us for an enlightening discussion on this vital topic!

Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.

*The following is based on actual events. Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conclusion to our two-part interview, we continue our conversation with Melanie Wilking, a dancer and content creator featured in the Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult documentary. Melanie and her sister Miranda, formerly known as the Wilking Sisters, created content together until Miranda was drawn into the 7M organization. Melanie and her parents raised awareness about the situation through an Instagram Live. In this discussion, Melanie shares her journey since the docuseries, her experience with Shekinah, and the emotional impact of Miranda’s choice to stay. She also highlights the family's ongoing efforts to reunite with her sister and the important lessons learned along the way.

Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.

*The following is based on actual events. Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this exclusive two-part interview, we speak with Melanie Wilking, a dancer and content creator featured in the documentary series Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult. Melanie and her sister Miranda, formerly the Wilking Sisters, faced a turning point when Miranda was drawn into the 7M organization. In a courageous move, Melanie and her parents went live on Instagram to expose the situation.

Melanie shares her family's journey since the docuseries, her experiences with Shekinah, and the emotional toll of Miranda's decision to stay. She discusses their ongoing efforts to reconnect with her sister and the important lessons learned along the way.

Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.

*The following is based on actual events. Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we chat with Angela Derrick, former wife of 7M dancer James “B-Dash” Derrick. Angela recounts their initial pairing and eventual marriage within a cult-like environment, sharing the moment she realized she needed to leave. She discusses how her decision led to their divorce and her journey as a single parent. Angela also offers her perspective on the Dancing for the Devil documentary and its unsettling parallels to her own experiences.

Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.

*The following is based on actual events. Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Netflix podcast, You Can't Make This Up, host Rebecca Lavoie interviews Dancing With The Devil director Derek Doneen and executive producer Jessica Acevedo about the making of their documentary.

Dancing For the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult tells the story of the coercive church, its former members, and the performers still dancing online. It exposes the diabolical tactics used by cult-like organizations to exert control over people as well as the lengths families will go to keep their loved ones safe.SPOILER ALERT! If you haven't watched Dancing For the Devil yet, make sure to add it to your watch-list before listening on.

Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Leah provides a unique perspective on the humble beginnings of Shekinah Church and reveals the profound impact it had on her family. She will also discuss how her relationship with her older brother, Daniel, a former Shekinah/7M mentor, was irrevocably altered by his involvement with the church.

Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.

*The following is based on actual events. Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.