Overview
Author, Speaker, Whistleblower and award-winning Director Mark Vicente was behind the sleeper hit “What The Bleep Do We Know?!” Several books have been written about the film’s remarkable grassroots marketing campaign, which led to its unprecedented success.
Mark was born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1965. Taking his first photograph at age four, he quickly discovered his passion for being behind the camera. After attending film and drama school in South Africa, he began working his way up the ranks of the camera department, from Assistant to Operator to Cinematographer. His first big break came as Director of Photography on the musical “SARAFINA,” starring Whoopi Goldberg. In 1992, he set his sights on Hollywood and relocated to Los Angeles to shoot his first studio picture for Disney; “FATHERHOOD,” starring Patrick Swayze and Halle Berry. At the age of 26, he became one of the youngest cinematographers to shoot a big-budget studio picture.
Over the next few decades, he went on to shoot an additional 14 feature films and numerous documentaries, music videos and commercials. Mark soon found there were in him, untold stories he desperately wanted to express as a Director. He was driven by the conviction that tales of greatness, nobility and introspection could be exciting and financially successful.
Perhaps because of the very obvious race and class iniquities in South Africa, he found himself propelled to question certain fundamental assumptions at a very young age. Beliefs about human behavior, cosmology, religion, existentialism and mysticism. Along the way, he stumbled into a few situations where leaders with malignant pathologies (masquerading as saintly philosophers) spoke the talk of self-improvement but did untold damage to their followers... and him.
Looking back, he can now say he has been in at least two cults. His last foray into personal growth and his defection from NXIVM was chronicled in the HBO series “The Vow”. Mark and a few plucky whistleblowers exposed the criminal activities of the organization, resulting in multiple arrests and indictments. He doesn’t consider himself a cult expert, but by his own admission, “I’m an expert in being screwed over, waking up, and knowing how to spot them.” He’s got a pretty salty approach to most things and is fascinated by the myriad patterns in the human psychodynamic that create the best and the worst in civilization.
Join Mark as he unpacks a whole range of topics to do with: Psychology, Consciousness, Morality, Narcissistic Abuse, Spirituality, Cults, Propaganda, Science, Filmmaking, and Philosophy.You never quite know what you’re going to get, as it really does depend on… WTF is on his mind?!
94 Episodes
To De-Cult your news feed, sign up for GROUND NEWS using my affiliate link. 40% off the normal price. https://ground.news/checkout/all?fpr=mark93 After spending over 10 years in a cult, I became obsessed with recognizing the patterns. And now? I see them everywhere—especially in our political tribes. Everyone's busy calling the other side a cult while refusing to examine their own behavior. In this episode of WTF is on my Mind?!, I'm asking you to do something uncomfortable: question YOUR si...
Transcribed - Published: 14 December 2025
To De-Cult your news feed, sign up for GROUND NEWS using my affiliate link. 40% off the normal price. https://ground.news/checkout/all?fpr=mark93 In this episode of WTF is on My Mind, I sit down with author and dark psychology educator Richard Grannon to explore something that’s been gnawing at my Patreon community: the disturbing rise of post-cult interviews where former NXIVM insiders speak as though they’re remorseful, but their words don’t always match their energy. My community senses th...
Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2025
What does it really take to stop repeating toxic patterns? To finally choose yourself after trauma, addiction, and emotional chaos? In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I sit down with Jared Mello — aka The Wizard of Radical Self-Respect — to unpack the brutal, beautiful road to reclaiming yourself after abuse, addiction, and entanglement with toxic systems and people. Find Jared Mello Online: YouTube: @jaredmelloWebsite: https://radicalselfrespect.comInstagram: @wizard_of_radical_self_res...
Transcribed - Published: 16 November 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Richard Grannon to ask the question that’s been on my mind for a while: What is Borderline Personality Disorder? And when you're trying to figure out someone's irrational behavior, is it BPD? Complex PTSD? Or Vulnerable Narcissism? I’ve encountered some wildly confusing behavior in recent years—emotional whiplash, contradictions, disappearing boundaries—and I’ve been trying to make sense of it. This is not an academic exercise for me. It’s personal. Richard an...
Transcribed - Published: 2 November 2025
This conversation with Richard Grannon covers a topic I’ve been wanting to unpack for a long time: the tension between self-reflection and what often gets labeled as victim blaming. If you’ve experienced narcissistic abuse, coercive control, or cult manipulation, you’ve probably come up against this moment — where someone talks about agency or healing, and it lands like blame. I’ve felt that too. Richard and I dive into why that happens, what the term victim blaming originally mea...
Transcribed - Published: 26 October 2025
To De-Cult your news feed, sign up for Ground News using my affiliate link. 40% off the normal price. https://ground.news/checkout/all?fpr=mark93 What if narcissistic abuse doesn’t show up right away… but builds up like radiation in the body—silent, invisible, and devastating over time? In this solo episode, recorded from Cape Town, I reflect on family lineage, legacy, and the long-term effects of being around narcissists—especially the malignant kind. Inspired by a visit to my family's gra...
Transcribed - Published: 19 October 2025
In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I sit down with Dr. Peter Salerno — a retired psychotherapist and author who has spent decades studying personality disorders, psychopathy, and complex trauma. Our conversation dives straight into one of the most heated debates in psychology: are narcissists shaped by trauma and upbringing, or are some people simply born with traits that evolve into full-blown disorders? Dr. Salerno challenges the conventional belief that all narcissism stems from chil...
Transcribed - Published: 21 September 2025
New Youtube Channel and Podcast - "Remember Your Greatness" Youtube Channel Apple Podcasts Spotify Mentoring In this episode of WTF Is On My Mind?!, I sit down with Richard Grannon for a deep dive into the strange history of psychology, its blind spots, and what happens when we ignore the transpersonal, morality, and meaning. We ask the uncomfortable questions: Why did Freud’s worldview win out over Jung and Adler? What does it say about power, narcissism, and control...
Transcribed - Published: 14 September 2025
In this follow-up conversation, filmmaker, whistleblower, and podcast host Mark Vicente sits down again with Sarma Melngailis, the woman at the center of Netflix’s Bad Vegan. While the series portrayed her as complicit with Anthony Strangis and ignored key truths, Sarma’s new memoir, The Girl with the Duck Tattoo, reveals the deeper story: years of coercive control, psychological abuse, and dissociation. 1st Interview with Sarma: https://youtu.be/p2bA7XiP83g Sarma's Book Website: https://th...
Transcribed - Published: 7 September 2025
In this episode of WTF is On My Mind?!, filmmaker and whistleblower Mark Vicente explores what happens when we try to understand an irrational or dangerous mind. Whether it’s a cult leader, an abuser, or the mainstream media—attempting to “map” insanity can destabilize one’s own sanity. Brain Talk: How Mind Mapping Brain Science Can Change Your Life & Everyone In It - by David Schnarch Mark unpacks the concept of mind mapping—our brain’s instinct to model the thoughts and intentions of ot...
Transcribed - Published: 31 August 2025
In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, filmmaker and whistleblower Mark Vicente sits down with Richard Grannon for a conversation that begins with vampires and then branches into a whole labyrinth of topics. They explore how myths like Dracula and other vampire lore may have been early attempts to explain narcissism and psychopathy before psychology even existed. From there, the discussion moves into why narcissists drain people the way vampires feed, why innocence is such a target for preda...
Transcribed - Published: 17 August 2025
In this episode of WTF Is On My Mind?!, Mark Vicente pulls back the curtain on one of the most insidious tools of social control: shunning — not just as a personal act of rejection, but as a systemic, psychological weapon masquerading as moral high ground. This isn’t just about cults. It’s about how cult behavior has gone mainstream — how families, political factions, media outlets, and activist circles now use public exile and cold silence to punish dissent and demand conformity. Drawing on...
Transcribed - Published: 3 August 2025
What happens when people finally see through the lies? Mark Vicente breaks down the Epstein cover-up, government blackmail operations, and why we can't wait for heroes to save us. Mark connects the dots between cult dynamics and political power structures, drawing from his experience as a NXIVM whistleblower. The Epstein Cover-Up and What It Really Means: Mark digs into why the official narrative around Epstein's death and the missing client list feels so transparently false. But here's the ...
Transcribed - Published: 20 July 2025
In this unflinching conversation, Richard Grannon and Mark Vicente dissect a crucial Jordan Peterson and Joe Rogan discussion about how cluster B personalities infiltrate movements and institutions. We explore the dark psychology behind "parasitized empathy" and why good intentions can make you vulnerable to manipulation. Comment on Audio Podcast Key Topics Discussed: The 4-5% Problem: How cluster B personalities (narcissistic, psychopathic, histrionic) seek powerParasitized Empathy: Jordan ...
Transcribed - Published: 6 July 2025
Mark Vicente sits down with Richard Grannon in Lisbon to discuss their increasingly unsettling experiences with ChatGPT and AI. What starts as curiosity about AI capabilities quickly becomes a deep dive into psychological manipulation, digital cult tactics, and the terrifying sophistication of modern AI systems. Key revelations from this episode: How AI accurately profiled Richard's personality, IQ, and behavioral patterns in under 10 minutesThe "illusion of interiority" - AI's programmed ab...
Transcribed - Published: 29 June 2025
In this very personal episode, Mark shares candid reflections on turning 60 — and the lifelong journey from feeling responsible for fixing the world, to finally embracing what it means to simply be. He opens up about childhood moments that shaped him, the weight of perfectionism, and the myth of “enlightenment” that led him into high-control groups. Mark explores how healing, authenticity, and connection matter more than chasing impossible standards — and why he feels hope, even in a chaotic...
Transcribed - Published: 22 June 2025
What happens when you leave a cult—but the cult is still running a program in your mind? In this episode, Mark Vicente sits down with author and trauma educator Richard Grannon to explore the long tail of coercive control. They talk about the psychological residue that lingers after you’ve exited—whether it’s from a high-control group, a toxic relationship, or a narcissistic parent. They dive into: • Why so many survivors still feel loyal to their abuser • How cult leaders get i...
Transcribed - Published: 8 June 2025
Episode Summary: In this deeply intimate conversation, Mark sits down with his old friend Karen Unterreiner — a woman who spent four decades at the epicenter of what the world came to know as NXIVM. Once a high-ranking member, deeply entangled both professionally and personally with Keith Raniere, Karen shares her long journey of waking up from psychological captivity. What does it mean to have your entire adult identity shaped by someone else’s manipulative design? How do you start to rebuil...
Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2025
Breaking the Spell — Motherhood, Escape & Reclaiming her Voice | Part 2 In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Bethany Joy Lenz — actor, singer, and author of Dinner for Vampires — continues her story of life inside a high-control religious group while navigating fame on One Tree Hill. This episode picks up where we left off: unpacking the emotional, spiritual, and psychological cost of living under manipulation — and what it takes to reclaim your voice once you’re out. We talk about...
Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2025
Living Two Lives — Hollywood Fame & Hidden Cult Control | Part 1 “You can’t be human here.” In Part 1 of this raw and revelatory conversation, One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy Lenz opens up about the decade she spent inside a high-control religious group — all while filming a hit TV show and hiding a double life. We talk about: - The slow creep of coercive control masked as faith - The emotional and spiritual suppression that comes with people-pleasing - The inner split of being both art...
Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2025
This episode contains candid discussion about narcissistic abuse, psychopathy, high-control systems, workplace trauma, and cult dynamics. Please listen with care. What if the charming, high-achieving leader at your company—or in your government—isn’t just a narcissist… but a full-blown corporate psychopath? In this revealing episode, I sit down with Dr. Cynthia Mathieu, a psychologist and professor who studies “dark leadership”—the presence of psychopathic traits in organizational power struc...
Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2025
Guest: Jacob Skidmore (@TheNamelessNarcissist) “People say narcissists wear a mask… I am the mask.” Jacob Skidmore has been diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. He’s one of the very few who talks about it—openly, unfiltered, and without a script. In this raw and revealing conversation, we dive into the unsettling inner world of NPD: the chronic emptiness, the relentless need for admiration, the calculated personas, and the aching desire to be understood? This is not a redemption...
Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2025
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 ca...
Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2025
In this expletive laden and unfiltered solo episode, Mark Vicente dives deep into the subtle, insidious ways abusive individuals and systems exploit our longing to grow, reflect, and “be better.” He explores the psychological unraveling that happens when introspection is hijacked to suppress personal agency. Drawing from his lived experience in NXIVM, Mark unpacks how coercive groups often encourage relentless self-examination not to empower, but to disable. The more you question yourself, t...
Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2025
What happens when truth becomes your only option for survival? In this unfiltered, emotionally honest conversation, filmmaker and whistleblower Mark Vicente sits down with Josh Connolly—a resilience coach and breathwork facilitator who’s spent over a decade helping people reconnect with their inner truth after trauma. Josh talks about growing up in a dysfunctional home, breaking out of addictive roles, and how society at large mirrors the same toxic family dynamics we try to escape. They al...
Transcribed - Published: 6 April 2025
In this powerful and revealing episode, filmmaker Mark Vicente sits down with Dr. Karen Mitchell, founder of the Kalmor Institute and the author of one of the most groundbreaking PhD theses ever written on dark personalities. https://kalmor.com.au/ https://x.com/karenmitchell__ Karen shares the results of decades of research and direct experience, unveiling a chilling but deeply important truth: narcissists, psychopaths, Machiavellians, cult leaders, toxic executives, and coercive controlle...
Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2025
In this solo episode, filmmaker and truth-seeker Mark Vicente shares what’s been stirring in his mind—from the deeply personal to the culturally explosive. He starts with an exploration of dignity—what it is, why it matters, and how it’s the missing ingredient in many conversations about boundaries and self-respect. Through stories and personal insight, he dives into the internal work required to reclaim one’s worth, especially after experiences of coercive control, narcissistic abuse, or cu...
Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2025
In this deeply insightful and unfiltered conversation, I speak with return guest Africa Brooke. Africa is a writer, speaker, and thought leader known for her work on self-censorship, self-sabotage, and personal transformation. The discussion explores the tension between speaking one’s truth and navigating societal pressures, tribalism, and ideological conformity. Africa and I challenge listeners to reflect on their beliefs, fears, and the cost of authenticity in today’s world. This episode is...
Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2025
In this eye-opening episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I sit down with Coach Liliya Labonte, a specialist in narcissistic abuse and healing, to uncover a rarely discussed topic: the female narcissist. Unlike their male counterparts, female narcissists operate in uniquely insidious ways, leaving many victims questioning their reality. Together, we explore: ✔️ The key differences between male and female narcissists ✔️ The subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs to watch for ✔️ How to protect yourself an...
Transcribed - Published: 23 February 2025
In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I dive deep into Communal Narcissism—the most deceptive and dangerous form of narcissism. Unlike grandiose or covert narcissists, communal narcissists hide behind morality, altruism, and social justice, using a façade of selflessness to manipulate and control. I break down: The three faces of narcissism: Grandiose, Covert, and CommunalWhy communal narcissists thrive in cults, religions, charities, and politicsHow they manipulate people’s need for goodn...
Transcribed - Published: 16 February 2025
In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I explore the concept of ideological infection—the psychological trap where we become so emotionally attached to our beliefs, movements, or public figures that any challenge to them feels like a personal attack. I break down why this happens, from cognitive biases like confirmation bias and motivated reasoning to the fight-or-flight response triggered when our worldview is questioned. I also dive into the five steps to break free from ideological captur...
Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2025
In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I sit down with Dr. Jaime Zuckerman, a licensed clinical psychologist and national expert in narcissistic abuse. We dive deep into the insidious nature of narcissistic relationships, the misconceptions surrounding narcissism, and what makes narcissistic abuse so earth-shattering for its victims. Dr. Z shares her insights on how to heal from narcissistic abuse, the playbook of narcissists, and the emotional toll these relationships take. This is a powerf...
Transcribed - Published: 26 January 2025
In this episode: I explore the concept of suppression and how it affects us personally, in families, and on a societal scale. We explore how suppressing ideas, emotions, and beliefs can lead to fragmentation and toxicity. Drawing from personal insights, psychological observations, and real-world examples, I discuss the dangers of censorship, fear-based control, and the societal consequences of suppressing inconvenient truths. Suppression and censorship in personal, family, and societal contex...
Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2024
In this episode: I talk to two incredible women who are leading the charge to redefine how we think about and legislate consent—Joyce Short and Nina Lucas of the Consent Awareness Network, or CAN. If Joyce Short gets her way, both “Yes Means Yes” and “No Means No” will be stricken from our laws. She is a sexual assault survivor and the author of 4 books that can turn our human right to consent into a civil right backed by law. She is the founder and Chief Executive of the Co...
Transcribed - Published: 22 December 2024
In this episode: How my film, "What the Bleep Do We Know?!" led to a weird encounter with a clinical psychologist on a yacht. My eventual induction into NXIVM and my confusion about Keith Raniere's 'Sex Den'. I talk about death anxiety, power dynamics, and the behavior of leaders who claim to have achieved a higher state of consciousness yet engage in questionable practices. Support the show The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official ...
Transcribed - Published: 8 December 2024
What happens when the subconscious drags you back into the cult you’ve left behind? In this episode, I share a vivid dream where I was back in the cult—a surreal journey that left me reflecting and exploring the parallels between my dream and the troubling patterns I see in the world today. This episode isn’t just about a dream; it’s about what the dream represents. It’s about confronting the relationships between my cult experiences and the societal “rules” that feel eerily similar, and unpa...
Transcribed - Published: 24 November 2024
In this episode: I use the comic, Asterix and Obelix as a metaphor to explore societal beliefs and the consequences of questioning established norms. I talk about how the fear of the sky falling and the invention of the 'special helmet' mirrors contemporary issues of belief and conformity. Also, we talk shit about the skydeniers and the anti-helmets. Support the show The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podca...
Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2024
In this episode, I explore the concept of fear-based manipulation and control, discussing how fear and trauma have historically been used to bind individuals to leaders, ideologies, and movements. I reference key thinkers like Matthias Desmet and Hannah Arendt, providing historical examples such as the Cultural Revolution in China, Stalin's Great Purge, and the Salem witch trials. I emphasize the role of media in shaping perceptions of fear and the psychological dynamics of coercive control a...
Transcribed - Published: 27 October 2024
Former Hollywood actor, David Sutcliffe discusses his journey of self-discovery, transitioning from acting to somatic therapy, and the struggles of authenticity and identity. He talks about the role of pain in healing, the complexities of the victim mentality, and the acceptance of both good and evil within ourselves. The conversation emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness and personal growth, highlighting the challenges and rewards of facing one's inner darkness. We delve into the ...
Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2024
In this episode: Richard Grannon and I delve into the complexities of ideology, exploring its definitions, psychological impacts, and its relationship with beliefs. We discuss the nuances between having beliefs and being ideologically captured, the role of utopianism in ideology, and how these concepts relate to cult dynamics and narcissism. We also touch on the importance of developing an internal locus of control and the personal journey of understanding one's beliefs and ideologies. ...
Transcribed - Published: 13 October 2024
In this episode: Peter Boghossian and I delve into the complexities of belief systems, the importance of open dialogue, and the role of education in shaping our understanding of the world. We discuss the challenges posed by ideological capture, the significance of epistemology, and the need for civil discourse in a polarized society. Throughout the discussion, we emphasize the importance of acknowledging mistakes, the dangers of clinging to beliefs, and the necessity of curiosity and humility...
Transcribed - Published: 4 October 2024
My Thoughts on Cult Mentality and Moral Dilemmas – Alison Mack, NXIVM, and Beyond In this episode: I dive into some deep and personal reflections about the dangers of avoiding moral questions, both in cults and in society at large. Drawing from my own experiences with NXIVM, I talk about Alison Mack, her attempts to question her role, and how Keith Raniere manipulated her into silence. I also explore how this same kind of gaslighting happens beyond cults – in politics, social movements, and...
Transcribed - Published: 22 September 2024
In this episode: I sit down with Richard Grannon to dive deep into the power and relevance of the Socratic Method in today's polarized world. Building on themes from my previous episode "The Rage of the Empath" we explore how critical thinking, open dialogue, and intellectual humility can help us navigate complex issues and conflicting viewpoints. Socratic Method: We unpack the ancient Greek approach to dialogue, where both parties must first fully understand each other's positions before en...
Transcribed - Published: 23 August 2024
The Dangers of Intolerance: Culty Behavior in Today's World In this episode, I delve into the unsettling parallels between cult behavior and the current climate of intolerance we see online and in society. Drawing from my experiences as a whistleblower against NXIVM and my understanding of manipulative dynamics, I explore how rigid ideologies and "thought policing" mirror the very patterns of control used by cults. Key Points Discussed: Cults and Boundaries: How cult leaders establish unspo...
Transcribed - Published: 16 August 2024
In this episode: I ruminate on the lack of justice in certain situations, specifically focusing on a disturbing case involving a trainer at a gym. The trainer engages in manipulative and predatory behavior, including blackmailing clients and sharing explicit videos without consent. Despite clear crimes being committed, law enforcement has been unresponsive. Also BTW - The contrast between the trainer's charming facade and his conscienceless actions is mind-boggling. Note: A few details have ...
Transcribed - Published: 11 August 2024
In this episode: I retell the story of "The Emperor's New Clothes" by Hans Christian Anderson. Drawing parallels to our modern society, I explore concepts such as cognitive dissonance, cultic behavior, gaslighting, mass delusion, and the sunk cost fallacy. There are dire consequences for speaking the truth in a society that values conformity and obedience. I question the manipulation of public opinion and the suppression of dissenting voices. 00:00 Introduction 02:27 The Emperor's New Cloth...
Transcribed - Published: 28 July 2024
In this episode: I continue my discussion with Producer/Writer Adam G. Simon - about A.I. this time. We look at the ethical implications of A.I. and the lack of regulations and ethical constraints in its development. Adam discusses the state of Hollywood, describing it as a corrupt industry driven by money and power. He explores the impact of A.I. on storytelling and expresses his worries about the loss of creativity and the homogenization of content. We discuss Nolan A.I. - a creativ...
Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2024
In this episode: I talk to Adam G. Simon, a screenwriter, producer, and actor. We discuss Adam's background as a bodyguard and close protection specialist, his experiences in the Mormon Church, and his journey of leaving the church. We also touch on the investigations department within the church and the control it exerts over its members. We explore themes of abuse, manipulation, and the fear of leaving a religious community. Adam discusses his journey from Mormonism to questioning and...
Transcribed - Published: 7 July 2024
In this Episode: I chat with Richard Grannon about the concept of narcissistic psychopathy and its impact on power structures and society. He delves into the characteristics of narcissistic psychopaths, their delusional and power-hungry nature, and their ability to manipulate and control others. The discussion highlights the dangers of narcissistic psychopathy becoming the dominant influence in societal structures and the need for cynicism and resistance. It also touches on the role of fantas...
Transcribed - Published: 30 June 2024
In this episode: A conversation with Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, Edward Dutton. We cover a wide range of topics, including the seminar on Narcissistic Psychopathy we just completed, the background of Professor Dutton, discussions on autism, the concept of heresy, controversial views, the adaptive nature of religion, and the influence of intelligence on manipulation and societal dynamics. The conversation delves into the societal shift towards dogma, the psychology of giving power to...
Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2024
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