Cult Logic: The Self Sealing System

In this episode, Mark Vicente unpacks the concept of self-sealing systems — those airtight ideological loops used in cults, extreme religious groups, and even political tribes to block out dissent and lock members deeper into belief. Drawing from his own lived experience in NXIVM (aka ESP), Mark explains how these systems use circular logic, linguistic reframing, and fear-based conditioning to keep followers compliant and questioning outsiders.

He explores:

• The emotional traps of “being at cause”
• The psychological architecture of films like The Village
• How certain keywords trigger shame, dismissal, or moral superiority
• The chilling trend of algorithmic censorship around trauma-related crimes
• Why courage means examining your own side — not just pointing fingers at “them”

This one might ruffle some feathers. But if no one’s pissed off… is he even doing his job?

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The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

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