# Self-Proclaimed Prophet or Predator? | Trust Me: A False Prophet Ep. 1 Reaction"

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/growing-up-in-polygamy-5126332/self-proclaimed-prophet-or-predator-trust-me-a-false-prophet-ep-1-reaction
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/growing-up-in-polygamy-5126332/self-proclaimed-prophet-or-predator-trust-me-a-false-prophet-ep-1-reaction.md
Podcast: [Growing Up In Polygamy](https://stenobird.com/podcast/growing-up-in-polygamy-5126332)
Published: 2026-04-11T20:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/growingupinpolygamy/episodes/Self-Proclaimed-Prophet-or-Predator---Trust-Me-A-False-Prophet-Ep--1-Reaction-e3homqf
Audio file: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/APO3754519842.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/growing-up-in-polygamy-5126332/episodes/self-proclaimed-prophet-or-predator-trust-me-a-false-prophet-ep-1-reaction
Duration seconds: 2634

## Resource

In this episode, we react to Episode 1 of Trust Me: A False Prophet and break down the disturbing rise of Samuel Bateman — a self-proclaimed prophet who used religion to gain control, take followers’ wives and daughters, and justify abuse under the guise of “atonement.” As former members of fundamentalist and mainstream Mormon communities, we’ve seen firsthand how power, fear, and belief can be twisted. In this reaction, we share our personal insights into how leaders like this gain influence, why people follow, and how these systems enable abuse to happen in plain sight. This story isn’t just shocking—it’s a real look into how modern-day cult leaders operate. 👉 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: At what point does belief turn into control? Topics we cover: The rise of Samuel Bateman Religious manipulation and control “Atonement” used as a tool for abuse How followers become trapped Parallels to other fundamentalist groups If you enjoy real, honest reactions with insider perspective, make sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more. #TrustMe #FalseProphet #CultDocumentary #SamuelBateman #TrueCrime #EXFLDS #ExMormon #Polygamy #CultSurvivor If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world." If you would like to DONATE to this cause you can do so here: https://donorbox.org/growing-up-in-polygamy Insta: @growingupinpolygamy New website is now up! www.growingupin…

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## Transcript

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