The latest podcast John did with Mike Rinder, the highest ranking Scientologist to defect, was super interesting. (Wish John didn't feel the need to talk so much!) Mormon Stories episode 1401.

The parallels between Scientology and Mormonism are striking. Both founders wrote fiction which later became the foundation of a religion. Both religions are abusive and damaging - in different ways. Both have personnel doing the heavy lifting to protect the inner workings.

One takeaway is that it is essential that the tax-exempt status of religions be challenged and the push to maintain "Freedom of Religion" be recognized as a political move to ensure religion's right to discriminate and thwart the law.

Rinder is smart, articulate, analytical. John pledged to work with him to help expose the abuses. The episode is highly recommended.