Leaving Love Has Won: Inside the Cult of “Mother God” | Andrew-Ryan Profaci, Ex-“Father God”

Delanie Fischer chats with Andrew-Ryan Profaci, former member of Love Has Won, the cult led by Amy Carlson AKA “Mother God." Andrew takes us beyond the headlines and documentary coverage to share the origin of the group's doctrine, the reality of his intimate relationship with Amy and day-to-day life inside the high-control group, and his experience as “Father God.” He opens up about what drew him in, why he ultimately left, and the lasting impact the experience has had on him. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code HELPLESS at https://www.oneskin.co/HELPLESS Episode Highlights:  The Danger of Certainty: Belief at All Costs What Led Amy to Leave Her Own Cult Commune Life vs. Belief: What's the Bigger Draw? Fond Memories with Amy (and Things She Loved) Demystifying Amy's Obsession with Celebrities Did Andrew Believe He Was "Father God"? When Amy's Spiritual Powers Were Debunked How Does "Love Has Won" Feel About Other Cults? The Experiences that Primed Andrew for Joining The Importance of Authenticity + Processing Trauma More about Andrew-Ryan Profaci: https://thewaronlove.com/ ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Inside Cult Tactics and High-Control Groups: Manipulation, Deception & Coercion with Michael D. Langone: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2543e7f7/inside-cult-tactics-and-high-control-groups-manipulation-deception-coercion-with-michael-d-langone I Was Raised in a Cult: High-Control Groups Disguised as Therapy for Children & Families with Chase: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/4a15d6d9/i-was-raised-in-a-cult-high-control-groups-disguised-as-therapy-for-children-families-with-chase I Was Abducted by Aliens with Elizabeth April (UFOs, ET Contact & The Galactic Federation of Light): https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/9e9d7f11/i-was-abducted-by-aliens-with-elizabeth-april-ufos-et-contact-the-galactic-federation-of-light The Psychological Impact of Gaslighting with Dr. Stephanie Sarkis: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2a31527c/the-psychological-impact-of-gaslighting-with-dr-stephanie-sarkis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Andy J. Pizza, illustrator and New York Times bestselling author, about the difficult feelings surrounding creativity. They discuss why “success” doesn’t always feel the way you expect, when to problem-solve for clunkiness vs. when to let a project go, and how to balance individuality and cohesion in creative collaboration. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code HELPLESS at https://www.oneskin.co/HELPLESS Episode Highlights:  Self-Esteem v. Self-Worth: Your "Animal" Internal Family Systems & Life's 2nd Mountain Importance vs. Interest-Based Motivation "Starting Over" as an Established Creative 5 Hacks For Creative Productivity + ADHD Does Creativity Ever Feel Like a Burden? Embarrassments, Failures, and Experiments Flow State: 70% Ease and 30% Challenge Pantsers vs. Plotters: Which are You? Creative Freedom Through Constraints More about Andy J. Pizza: https://www.andyjpizza.com/ ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: We Need Your Art! For Health, Community, and More with Amie McNee: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/25b6ee3e/we-need-your-art-for-health-community-and-more-with-amie-mcnee Filmmaker Kit Williamson on the Highs and Lows of a Creative Career: Dead Projects, Taking Control & an Unconventional Path: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1db83de7/filmmaker-kit-williamson-on-the-highs-and-lows-of-a-creative-career-dead-projects-taking-control-an-unconventional-path How to Make Art That Inspires Generations with Shaun Monson: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1ee1219a/how-to-make-film-and-art-that-inspires-generations-with-shaun-monson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Timothy Burki about the near-death experience that changed his life. Ten years ago, Timothy was involved in a motorcycle accident that led to an out-of-body experience. He shares what he witnessed and came to understand about life and death—and how it's impacted his beliefs, desires, and goals. Episode Highlights:  Timothy’s OBE and Return to the Body Experiencing a Life Review: The Biggest Lesson Instant Travel, Nonlinear Time, and Omnipresence The Message Timothy Received About His Life How Beliefs Shape Near-Death Experiences NDEs vs. Dreams: What’s the Difference? The Misconception of Judgment Day and Hell Life After an NDE: Balancing Physical and Spiritual The Mosaic of Collective Consciousness How Might an NDE Affect Anxiety and Perfectionism? More about Timothy Burki: https://www.thendecoach.com/ ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Mortality Awareness: Meaning, Motivation, and Your To-Die-For Life with Karen Salmansohn: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2367345e/mortality-awareness-meaning-motivation-and-your-to-die-for-life-with-karen-salmansohn Rethinking Intuition, Belief, and The Nature of Reality with Vincent Genna: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23db0212/rethinking-intuition-belief-and-the-nature-of-reality-with-vincent-genna Overcoming the Fear of Death with Kelvin Chin: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/20d70e6d/overcoming-the-fear-of-death-with-kelvin-chin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Dr. Sailesh Rao, Founder and Executive Director of Climate Healers and systems specialist—with a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University—to discuss the basic principles of Hinduism, how to understand and implement our unique purpose, and our duties as a caretaker species. Dr. Rao also shares how his faith has shaped his life, work, and health. Episode Highlights:  How to Bring Your 4 Unique Dharmas to Life Humanity: The Highest Duty and The Metamorphosis  8 Healthy Habits Based on the Top Health Risks Leveraging Greed to Create a New Planetary System The Wishing Tree: Watching Child vs. Wishing Child What Selfish People Haven't Figured Out Yet Ahimsa, Ayurveda, Chakras, and Non-Attachment Separation as Delusion: The Practicality of “We’re All One” More about Dr. Sailesh Rao: https://climatehealers.org/sailesh-rao/ ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Ancient Jewish Wisdom for Modern Life with Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz Upcycling, Sustainability, and Getting Resourceful With What You Have with Yousuf Ahmed The Science of Generosity: How Giving Rewires Your Brain and Impacts Health & Behavior (+ What We Get Wrong About Human Nature) with Cherian Koshy Flip the Script on Aging: Strength, Vitality, and Purpose with 74 Year-Old Icon Babette Davis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer and subscriber and guest co-host, Madelyn, chat about creating opportunities personally and professionally that result in more connection, fun, and meaning. They share personal experiences around leveraging their strengths, interests, and values for exploring their career, building relationships, focusing on health, and prioritizing creativity. If you're feeling the pressure of the status quo, tune in for a reminder to embrace your unique qualities and enjoy what makes you, you. Submit here to be considered for a guest co-host episode: https://www.delaniefischer.com/submissions Madelyn's podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/033Y1PxwjcTnwTleOn4UCv?si=HialI4lfRrijRB31AGKaUg&nd=1&dlsi=a7ce6304f82c43dcEpisode Highlights:  When Your Energy is Spread Too Thin Balancing Novelty and Consistency Making New Friends in a New Place Putting on Social Armor: Your Alter Ego 7 Quotes for Taking the Pressure Off What if it Can Be More Fun Than You're Making it? Starting with What Feels Easy and Safe A Flashy Life vs. a Happy Life Neurodivergence and Productivity Breakups, Dating, and Marriage Day Jobs, Entrepreneurship, and Projects ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: The Science of Generosity: How Giving Rewires Your Brain and Impacts Health & Behavior (+ What We Get Wrong About Human Nature) with Cherian Koshy: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/22b303ba/the-science-of-generosity-how-giving-rewires-your-brain-and-impacts-health-behavior-what-we-get-wrong-about-human-nature-with-cherian-koshy Stop Asking Yourself the Wrong Questions: How to Unlock Deeper Fulfillment with Elliott Connie: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/365204fb/stop-asking-yourself-the-wrong-questions-how-to-unlock-deeper-fulfillment-with-elliott-connie Can Ambition Be Sustainable? How to Prioritize What Matters in Life and Work with Kathy Oneto: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/469eca67/can-ambition-be-sustainable-how-to-prioritize-what-matters-in-life-and-work-with-kathy-oneto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is one of the most unconventional episodes of Self-Helpless yet, while still grounded in curiosity and respectful skepticism. Delanie Fischer chats with Elizabeth April—author and spiritual influencer—to explore her claims of extrasensory abilities, alien abduction, and ongoing ET contact. They discuss Elizabeth’s beliefs about past life regression, remote viewing, consciousness, the nature of reality, various species of extraterrestrial beings, hybridization, and the Galactic Federation of Light. No matter your beliefs, we hope this episode encourages exploration of mysticism across religious and cultural traditions through a fresh lens. Episode Highlights:  Reincarnation, Past Life Regression, and Akashic Records April's Abduction Story: Aliens, an Implant, and the Aftermath Remote Viewing, Astral Projection & The Astral Body Starseeds, Galactic Volunteers, and Hybridization The Galactic Federation of Light and Human Prophecy Quantum Physics, Perception, and the Nature of Reality Spiritual Awakening, Vibration, and Ascension Diverse Extraterrestrial Life & The Law of Non-Intervention Why You'll Never Look at the Moon the Same Way Again More about Elizabeth April: https://elizabethapril.com/about-us/ ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon), Anomalous Experiences, and The Limitations of Human Perception with Kelly Chase: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2549d24e/uap-unidentified-aerial-phenomenon-anomalous-experiences-and-the-limitations-of-human-perception-with-kelly-chase Rethinking Intuition, Belief, and The Nature of Reality with Vincent Genna: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23db0212/rethinking-intuition-belief-and-the-nature-of-reality-with-vincent-genna Inside Cult Tactics and High-Control Groups: Manipulation, Deception & Coercion with Michael D. Langone: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2543e7f7/inside-cult-tactics-and-high-control-groups-manipulation-deception-coercion-with-michael-d-langone Awakening: The Power of Ritual, Creative Energy, and Nature’s Wisdom with Rebecca Campbell: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1ba4a939/awakening-the-power-of-ritual-creative-energy-and-natures-wisdom-with-rebecca-campbell What's The Deal with Astrology? 12 Archetypes and Your Cosmic Zone with Madi Murphy: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2588a22f/whats-the-deal-with-astrology-12-archetypes-and-your-cosmic-zone-with-madi-murphy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Dr. Anna Herby—registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, and nutrition education specialist for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine—about disease prevention and remission. They discuss lifestyle-related conditions, strategies for improving and reversing symptoms, common nutrition myths, and the exercise vs. diet debate—what matters most for longevity based on scientific evidence. Episode Highlights:  Why Nutrition Discussions Can Be So Polarizing Diseases That Can Be Reversed (or Put Into Remission) Diet vs. Exercise: Which Matters More? You've Been Lied To—Carbs Are Not the Enemy 3 Essential Children's Nutrition Tips For Parents What's the Deal with Colic? Can It Be Prevented? Atherosclerosis: Why Even Athletes Have Heart Attacks Hospitals and Schools Serve a Group 1 Carcinogen 4 Books & Documentaries to Jumpstart Healthy Habits More about Dr. Anna Herby: https://www.pcrm.org/about-us/staff/anna-herby ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: ⁠Meat, Dairy & Eggs: 20 Science-Backed Health Insights with Dr. Michael Greger⁠ ⁠Debunking Nutrition Myths with Registered Dietician, Dr. Pamela Fergusson⁠ ⁠Heal Your Gut, Change Your Life: Insights on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis & Everyday Digestive Issues with Dane Johnson⁠ Netflix Documentary Review: Game Changers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer continues the “Subscriber Stories” series with subscriber Chase, who shares her experience growing up in a cult. They discuss how her family was first drawn in, the systems of control that kept them involved for over a decade, and how she eventually left. Plus, what's supported Chase's healing over the last several years. Submit here to be considered for the "Subscriber Stories" series: https://www.delaniefischer.com/submissions Episode Highlights:  How Chase Was “Brainwashed” — And Where She Is Now When Attachment Theory and Group Therapy Go Wrong Parents Seeking Support for Kids: 7 Red Flags to Watch For Nature vs. Nurture and the Dangers of All-or-Nothing Thinking When Your Manipulator’s Voice Becomes Your Inner Dialogue Sexual Repression, Shame, Divorce, and Reclaiming Sexuality Cult Trauma: Psychological Abuse, PTSD, Enmeshment, and Guilt Recovery: Building Confidence, Self-Trust, and Living Authentically ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Inside Cult Tactics and High-Control Groups: Manipulation, Deception & Coercion with Michael D. Langone How Enmeshment Trauma Impacts Every Relationship You Have with Dr. Kate Balestrieri ⁠The Psychological Impact of Gaslighting with Dr. Stephanie Sarkis⁠ ADHD in Adults: Signs, Symptoms, and Misconceptions with Dr. Stephanie Sarkis Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with Licensed Therapist, Nadirah Habeebullah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Dr. Phil Zuckerman—prominent sociologist, author, professor of secular studies, and founder of the first academic Secular Studies department in the U.S.—about atheism, agnosticism, and theism, including some of the most compelling arguments for and against religion and the existence of God, and how religiosity, skepticism, and secularism shape society. Whether you're a devout believer, a lifelong skeptic, or somewhere in between, this conversation will make you reflect on what you believe, why you believe it, and inspire you to sharpen the arguments behind it. Episode Highlights:  Atheism, Agnosticism, Theism, Secularism, and Humanism Debunking Common Stereotypes About Atheists Religion vs. Secularism: Which Benefits Society More? How Internet Use, Opportunity, and Welfare Impact Religiosity An Argument for the Existence of God: The Watchmaker Analogy Can Both Miracles AND Atrocities Be Attributed to God? The Problem of Omnipresence, Omnipotence, Goodness & Free Will The Appeal to Ignorance: The Pilot Example Can You Thrive Without Belief in God or Gods? What Can Everyone Agree on Despite Different Beliefs? Books by Phil Zuckerman: https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/phil-zuckerman/254049/?srsltid=AfmBOoq_5GK4BJfFHIbq-NhR-_ZIJpJ04eKqFRJOPYvTVMhQj6DeaDFE ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Ancient Jewish Wisdom for Modern Life with Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz: ⁠https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/f19d1b15/ancient-jewish-wisdom-for-modern-life-with-rabbi-dr-shmuly-yanklowitz Awakening: The Power of Ritual, Creative Energy, and Nature’s Wisdom with Rebecca Campbell: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1ba4a939/awakening-the-power-of-ritual-creative-energy-and-natures-wisdom-with-rebecca-campbell Rethinking Intuition, Belief, and The Nature of Reality with Vincent Genna: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23db0212/rethinking-intuition-belief-and-the-nature-of-reality-with-vincent-genna Stop Asking Yourself the Wrong Questions: How to Unlock Deeper Fulfillment with Elliott Connie: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/365204fb/stop-asking-yourself-the-wrong-questions-how-to-unlock-deeper-fulfillment-with-elliott-connie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Dr. Jennifer Berman—board-certified urologist, renowned expert in female sexual health and medicine, and former co-host of The Doctors. They discuss perimenopause and menopause, including key symptoms, personal experience, treatment options, why these hormonal shifts are often overlooked (but should be taken seriously), and what your doctor likely isn't telling you. Episode Highlights:  How Early Can Perimenopause Start? Staying Sharp at Work During Perimenopause and Menopause GLP-1s, Peptides, and 3 Lifestyle Factors That Can Improve Symptoms Persistent Lack of Motivation? You're Likely Deficient in This Hormone The Role Social Media Plays in the Women’s Health Movement What Women Can Expect in Their 30s, 40s, 50s, and Beyond Andropause: Male Menopause and How It Differs from Menopause Insider Tips for Getting the Right Care, Treatment, and Results Why Doctors Are Leaving Hospitals for Private Practice More about Dr. Jennifer Berman: https://bermansexualhealth.com/ ____ Self-Helpless Stuff: A quick 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: The Shocking Ingredients in Menstrual Products: Toxic Truths, Safe Alternatives, and the Future of Period Care with Arielle Loupos: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2bd21fe3/the-shocking-ingredients-in-menstrual-products-toxic-truths-safe-alternatives-and-the-future-of-period-care-with-arielle-loupos The Fascinating Science of Period Pain: Tackling Menstrual ‘Death’ Cramps with Kate Downey: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/35dcc2cb/the-fascinating-science-of-period-pain-tackling-menstrual-death-cramps-with-kate-downey Hormone Imbalances and Your Menstrual Cycle with Dr. Jolene Brighten: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/c4a75fbe/hormone-imbalances-and-your-menstrual-cycle-with-dr-jolene-brighten 10 Fertility Myths Debunked with OBGYN and Fertility Doctor Natalie Crawford, MD: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23741396/10-fertility-myths-debunked-with-obgyn-and-fertility-doctor-natalie-crawford-md Infertility, IVF, Silent Endometriosis, Adoption, Surrogacy and Creative Living with Riki Lindhome: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/233c0ebf/infertility-ivf-silent-endometriosis-adoption-surrogacy-and-creative-living-with-riki-lindhome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices