About this episode

Carol Merchasin discusses her role as President of ICSA and the organization's focus on cultic abuse and survivor advocacy.

Carol Merchasin is the newly appointed President of the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA). Drawing on decades of experience in law, investigations, and survivor advocacy, Carol has led inquiries into allegations of misconduct within prominent spiritual and religious organisations and has worked extensively with survivors of coercive control and abuse. Through her legal practice, public education efforts, and leadership at ICSA, she has become a leading voice on cultic abuse, human trafficking, labour exploitation, and the protection of vulnerable individuals within high-control environments. In this interview episode, we chatted about the role of ICSA, where Carol sees the organisation going next, what's upcoming at the 2026 ICSA Conference in July, and some of the trends and shifts the organisation is seeing with coercive groups, holding them to account, and the media landscape. Links International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) — official website ICSA Conference 2026 — 1-4 July, San Diego USA Credits: Produced by Sarah Steel Music by Joe Gould You can support Let's Talk About Sects here . If you have been personally affected by involvement in a cult, or…

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