Malevolent Mormon Mommys | The Case Against Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Technical and general information from the podcast's RSS feed.

Malevolent Mormon Mommys | The Case Against Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt

True Crime Today

News

True Crime

Frequency: 1 episode/3d. Total Eps: 166

Dive into the shadowed intersection of faith and deception with "Malevolent Mormon Mommys." This riveting podcast unravels the startling allegations against Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt, once celebrated figures in mommy blogging and the Mormon community. Beyond their picture-perfect online personas lay dark secrets waiting to be exposed. Through in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews with investigators, police, and psychologists, we confront the unsettling truths hidden behind their devout façades. Explore the intricacies of the digital age, the complexities of religious influence, and the psychology of deception. In a world where faith meets facade, "Malevolent Mormon Mommys" challenges perceptions and unveils a tale of betrayal, prompting the ultimate question: How well do we truly know the faces we trust? Subscribe and uncover a story that redefines the lines between belief and betrayal.

Recent rankings

Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.

Apple Podcasts

🇨🇦 Canada - newsCommentary
09/01/2026
#96
🇨🇦 Canada - newsCommentary
08/01/2026
#68
🇨🇦 Canada - newsCommentary
07/01/2026
#78
🇬🇧 Great Britain - newsCommentary
06/06/2025
#97
🇩🇪 Germany - newsCommentary
13/04/2025
#74
🇩🇪 Germany - newsCommentary
12/04/2025
#43
🇩🇪 Germany - newsCommentary
09/04/2025
#86
🇨🇦 Canada - newsCommentary
15/03/2025
#83
🇨🇦 Canada - newsCommentary
12/03/2025
#77
🇨🇦 Canada - newsCommentary
11/03/2025
#88

Spotify

No recent rankings available

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Links found in episode descriptions and other podcasts that share them.

See all

https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
554 shares
https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com/
317 shares

RSS feed quality and score

Technical evaluation of the podcast's RSS feed quality and structure.

See all

RSS feed quality

To improve

Score global : 53%

Publication history

Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.

Year

Latest published episodes

Recent episodes with titles, durations, and descriptions.

See all

Between a Rock and a Hildebrandt: Kevin Franke's Cluelessness Unveiled-2024 Year in Review

Sunday, January 5, 2025 • Duration 10:42

This is the " The Year in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that have dominated the news.

This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

Throughout the past year, we've followed and dissected cases such as P. Diddy, Karen Read, Scott Peterson, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrand, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "The Year in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Read moreCollapse

Documents and Videos Reveal Disturbing Details in Ruby Franke Child Abuse Case-2024 Year in Review

Thursday, January 2, 2025 • Duration 16:38

Sadistic Suburbia-Unraveling the Frankie Family Nightmare-Half Year Review

Saturday, July 6, 2024 • Duration 07:27

Welcome to the "Half Year Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that have dominated the news.

This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

Throughout the past six months, we've followed and dissected cases such as Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt, Harmony Montgomery, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Half Year Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at

Did The LDS Church Fund Alleged Child Abuser Mommy Bloggers?

Friday, September 29, 2023 • Duration 05:33

"How did two individuals seemingly manage to pull the wool over so many eyes, manipulating systems and minds to their advantage?"

In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delves into the unsettling tales of Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrant. With Lori Hellis, an author and criminal defense lawyer, they shed light on the complexities surrounding these figures, who, under the veneer of respectability, allegedly perpetuated a web of deceit.

For the uninitiated, on the surface, Franke, as Brueski observes, appeared to be nothing more than "a strict parent." However, scratch beneath the surface and a much more sinister portrait emerges. "She really tried to massage this image and portray herself in one way where what we're learning, if true, [is] quite a monster on the other side," Brueski remarked. This observation becomes even more chilling as we learn that even Franke's own sisters were reportedly unaware of her activities.

What is particularly alarming in these narratives is the seeming pattern of isolation. Hildebrant, much like Franke, seems to have a propensity for pushing away those who raise concerns. Hellis draws a parallel with the Lori Vallow case, stating, "We saw it in the Lori Vallow case. I mean, she cut off her entire family on the Cox side of the family. She cut them all off because they questioned what she was doing." This behavioral trait – the isolation from family and friends – appears to be a recurring theme among individuals exhibiting narcissistic tendencies.

As the conversation progressed, the connection to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) emerged. Both Franke and Hildebrant had affiliations with the church, and what Hellis reveals next is indeed troubling.

"Here's what I find very troubling about the Hildebrand and Frankie case," Hellis began. Jodi Hildebrand, notably a therapist with an MSW in social work, was reportedly on numerous church referral lists. This means that she was actively receiving clients from the church, with church leaders referring members to her for therapeutic sessions. The implications of such a dynamic become deeply problematic when the depth of Hildebrant's alleged actions is considered.

In a revealing interview, Jodi Hildebrand's niece, Jessie, unveiled that she was subjected to Hildebrant's so-called therapeutic techniques. More alarming is that Jessie was tasked with handling the billing for Hildebrant's "therapy practice." What left Jessie deeply disturbed was the revelation that "about 80 percent of the billing was being paid for by the LDS church." The LDS Church, known for its compassionate endeavors, would fund counseling sessions for members in need. In this twisted tale, not only was the church unintentionally endorsing someone potentially causing harm, but it was also financially supporting it. As Brueski poignantly notes, while there's nothing inherently wrong with church-funded counseling, the misuse and abuse of such a system are "sickening." The Franke-Hildebrant narrative forces us to question the systems in place, their vulnerabilities, and the lengths to which individuals might go to exploit them. The intertwining of personal ambition, alleged malpractice, and institutional trust provides a cautionary tale about vigilance, accountability, and the ever-present danger of deception lurking beneath seemingly benign exteriors. "In a world where appearances can be manipulated, how do we ensure that those entrusted with power and influence remain true to their responsibilities?" The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at

Were Mommy Bloggers Preying On Vulnerable LDS Members?

Friday, September 29, 2023 • Duration 07:54

In a riveting episode of "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delves deep into the murky waters of child protective services, exploring the intersection between a broken system and the masterful deceit of individuals like Ruby, a narcissist who manages to fool the system at every turn. Brueski's probing query, "Why did it take so long for anybody to look into this on a serious level?" brings to the fore a pressing issue that has haunted child welfare advocates for years.

Brueski is quick to clarify his stance, emphasizing that his intention isn’t to demean the many dedicated workers within the child protective services system. "I've always have to be careful with that because there are many people in it who work their ass off and are not funded. They don't have the resources to do their job correctly." The real culprit, Brueski suggests, may not just be an underfunded system but individuals like Ruby, who know how to play the game all too well.

Offering a deeper perspective, Lori Hellis, a criminal defense lawyer with substantial experience in juvenile cases, sheds light on the delicate balance child welfare systems must strike. "In every state, there is this tightrope between the rights of a parent to raise their children as they see fit, and when that tips over into abuse and neglect," Hellis explains. The challenge for CPS investigators lies in discerning genuine threats from benign but nonconventional parenting practices.

Hellis goes on to highlight the complexities that investigators face in cases that, on the surface, present no obvious signs of neglect or abuse. "So They go into a home and they see a home that is appropriately furnished. The kids have food. They appear to be being homeschooled in a responsible way." The key, according to her, is determining if there is a "true risk of harm" to the children.

This conundrum becomes even more profound in homes that are upscale and wield significant societal influence. As Brueski poignantly questions, "Are people getting better at hiding this stuff?" The conversation delves into how our societal perceptions can often be misguided, equating affluence or apparent happiness with well-being.

Hellis raises an alarming point about how the digital age might be aiding these deceptive tendencies. With the vast amount of information available online, she believes people have become more adept at understanding what the state looks for and, consequently, how to hide potential red flags. The darker corners of the internet may empower wrongdoers with the tools they need to elude detection. The episode then shifts to the nuances of emotional abuse, a form of mistreatment often overlooked because of its intangibility. As Brueski puts it, "It's also a reflection just of how we handle mental health in our country to begin with." The discussion concludes with a heart-wrenching case involving Ruby Frankie, illustrating how the unsuspecting are sometimes trapped in toxic therapeutic relationships, manipulated by unscrupulous individuals who exploit their client's vulnerabilities. In light of such complexities, one can't help but ponder: are we facing a systemic failure, or is it the evolving mastery of deceit that's to blame? The conversation on "Hidden Killers" serves as a compelling reminder that, in the age of information, we must be ever vigilant and discerning, constantly challenging our perceptions and assumptions. As we reflect on the intricate dance between a possibly flawed system and the cunning deception of some individuals, one has to wonder: In an age where appearances can be so deceiving, how can we truly safeguard our most vulnerable? The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at

Explosive NEW Allegations Surface Against Jodi Hildebrandt

Friday, September 29, 2023 • Duration 13:32

In the ever-evolving realm of therapy and mental health, the importance of trust and credibility is paramount. But for Jodi Hildebrandt, a notable therapist with a previously established reputation, a series of alarming testimonials threaten to dismantle her professional standing. A recent expose on the popular podcast "Murder in the Morning" showcased disturbing reviews from former clients of Hildebrandt's therapy programs, raising serious questions about the ethics and efficacy of her methods.

Former client Dan's testimonial paints a troubling picture: "Jodi Hildabrandt's teachings cost me my marriage. She used shame as control," he revealed. He also accuses Hildebrandt of overbilling, citing instances where the therapist would charge for entire sessions even when plagued by connectivity issues. More concerning, Dan claims multiple breaches of client confidentiality, a fundamental tenet of therapy, alleging that Hildebrandt disclosed personal client information.

However, it's not just individual sessions that have come under scrutiny. The organizations associated with Hildebrandt, ConneXions Classroom and Moms of Truth, were flagged by another reviewer for perpetuating "destructive division." This anonymous female reviewer conceded that while there were positive teachings, they were overshadowed by instances of undue shaming. She went on to liken the behavior of Hildebrandt and her colleague Ruby to a "cult-like mentality."

Perhaps one of the most startling reviews came from a self-identified established therapist who trained under Jodi for a year. "I saw her tear apart families and destroy relationships," the therapist claimed, further stating a belief in Hildebrandt's malevolent intentions.

The controversy extends to interference in family dynamics. Calvin alleges that Jodi manipulated his children against him on the testimony of their mother, with whom she allegedly had no permission to communicate. He claims Jodi's advice led his children to sever all forms of contact with him.

Anna Marie and others, like Vincent and Dashi Stock, raise concerns over purported "brainwashing tactics" and slander. They all sound the alarm on the potential emotional and mental harm stemming from interactions with Hildebrandt and her associated entities.

Interestingly, Hildebrandt's alleged attempts to control her public image seem to spill over to online platforms. Christopher Edmondson highlights her practice of suppressing dissenting voices on her social media channels, describing a pattern of blocking or removing comments that challenge her teachings. The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at

How Did Ruby Franke's Husband Ignore the Alleged Abuse Of His Wife?

Thursday, September 28, 2023 • Duration 05:22

When a loved one is responsible for grave misconduct, would you notice? A recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers" delved into the puzzling dynamics of the Ruby Hildebrandt case, raising questions about her husband's knowledge and involvement.

Ruby Hildebrandt’s parenting methods, as described in the podcast, bordered on the sadistic. Host Tony Brueski referenced her husband's claims that he is now focused on doing what's best for his kids, following the revelations. He wishes to rebuild relationships and even heal past traumas without indulging in the blame game.

Shavaun Scott, a psychotherapist and author, weighed in on the matter. "Clearly he was present when the parenting was going on, at least a lot of it, the very punitive and strict and almost sadistic ways that Ruby treated the children." Scott highlighted the complexities of realizing the severity of a situation when the perpetrator is someone close to you.

Ruby’s husband, despite being an academically accomplished individual, seemed to have lacked insight into his wife’s actions. "You can be a very intelligent person and have zero insight," said Scott. This observation brings forth a significant concern: the husband's possible victimhood. Was he also under Ruby's manipulative hold or genuinely oblivious to the ongoing abuse?

The podcast hinted at a wider audience becoming aware of the abuse through a YouTube channel, while Ruby’s husband seemingly remained in the dark. It suggested a theory wherein Ruby, much like Laurie Daybell, another infamous case discussed, utilized her charming persona and particular use of language to veil her sinister actions. Scott added, "It could confuse a person who doesn’t have a lot of insight, and who knows the ways that their relationship operated and the ways that she took the power and control."

The profound damage done to the children is undeniable, but Scott sees a potential silver lining in therapy. Addressing the husband’s possible realization, she said, "Maybe, you know, it is a light bulb moment for him." However, acknowledging the wrongdoings is only the first step. True reparation will undoubtedly be a long and strenuous journey, especially with the children.

She ended her analysis with a poignant remark, expressing intrigue in taking him on as a therapy patient. "It may sound odd, but this would be a fun one looking at it as a therapist to try to do some therapy with him and see how much insight he can really develop." So, as we delve deeper into this unsettling narrative of the Ruby Hildebrandt case, the question remains: How often do individuals remain blind to the actions of their loved ones, and when they do see, is it ever too late to make amends? The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at

Was Ruby Franke's Husband Also A Victim Of Her Abuse?

Thursday, September 28, 2023 • Duration 08:12

When faced with a family scandal of immense proportions, the world tends to divide into two sides: those who stand by the accused and those who denounce them. But what happens when the lines are blurred, and the innocence of a parent is questioned? In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, hosted by Tony Brueski, a compelling dialogue with Defense Attorney and Host of "Defense Diaries," Bob Motta, delves deep into this gray area, examining the involvement of Kevin Frankie, a father caught in a vortex of allegations against his spouse.

Kevin Frankie's wife, Ruby, is currently incarcerated, along with Jodi Hildebrand. While Kevin asserts his primary focus is on doing what's best for his children, his statements and actions have led many to question his true motives. Was he genuinely unaware of his wife's alleged misconduct, or was he a silent bystander or even, possibly, an active participant?

"Is he really just trying to cover his tracks right now and be the good guy when maybe he was looking the other way for quite some time, or who knows?" Tony Brueski posits. It's a question that strikes at the heart of the matter, drawing attention to the possibility that Kevin might have been more involved, or at least aware, than he lets on.

However, as Motta astutely points out, the most critical testimony in this convoluted case will come from the children themselves. "What I care about is what the kids are going to say," says Motta. These children, being older and not toddlers, have a comprehensive understanding of what transpired and their testimonies could play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome.

The delicate balance of family dynamics comes to the fore when one considers the psychological and emotional burden the children bear. They find themselves in the unenviable position of potentially having both their parents imprisoned, and the choices they make regarding their testimonies will inevitably reflect their struggles with this reality.

In a notable remark made by Kevin's attorney, Kevin was cited as being keen on reaching out to his children, family, and friends to address and heal from past traumas. Such a statement could be interpreted in several ways. Is Kevin referring to the actions of his wife, Ruby, or hinting at his own complicity or passive involvement?

Tony Brueski hints at a deeper, more introspective realization Kevin might be experiencing: "Maybe I wasn't the best dad. Maybe I looked the other way on some things." This sentiment is mirrored by Motta, who emphasizes the overwhelming guilt parents often feel when they believe they've failed their children. The dynamic between Ruby and Kevin is further complicated by the financial aspect. Their streaming venture was lucrative, with Ruby seemingly holding significant influence due to her being the "star of the show." This monetary power could have been a tool of manipulation, allowing Ruby to exert control over Kevin, as Motta theorizes, comparing the situation to cases where one partner holds financial dominance over the other. In the end, the episode paints a harrowing picture of a family torn apart, not just by alleged misconduct but also by the complexities of their interpersonal relationships and external influences. However, one question remains: Was Kevin Frankie truly an unsuspecting victim in this chaos, or was his silence an indication of complicity? The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at

How Mommy Blogger Normalized ABNORMAL Behavior

Thursday, September 28, 2023 • Duration 08:36

What drives an individual to the brink where fame and attention take precedence over the welfare of their own children? In the recent episode of "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski delves into the perplexing and deeply disturbing case of Ruby Franke with Robin Dreeke, retired FBI Special Agent and Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program.

Brueski ponders the motivations behind Franke and Jody Hildebrandt's actions: "Was it money? Was it control? Was it delusions of the religious beliefs that they held?" These haunting questions set the stage for a deep dive into the psyche and motivations of individuals pushed to extremes by societal pressures.

Dreeke reflects on the videos of Franke's sisters and describes the apparent competition between them. "It screams of the disease of a cult of more and the disease of comparison between sisters." The sisters, each with their own vlogging careers, seem to be caught in an insidious competition. He notes, "Ruby just went above and beyond because she wasn't getting the attention that she thought she deserved. She wanted more views."

But why this incessant need for attention? Dreeke further explains that the environment in which the Franke family thrived spoke of one-upmanship. "What drove them to that? What sort of tendency made them all feel that this is the way to go?" Brueski added, reflecting on the oddity of every adult sister in the family vlogging for a living.

The conversation then turns to an even more profound issue – the difference between "informers" and "me formers." Dreeke suggests that while informers put out information for the benefit of others, "me formers" are centered around self-promotion, often rationalizing their actions as beneficial for their audience. The Franke family, according to Dreeke, seems to consist mainly of "me formers."

In the case of Ruby Franke, her quest for fame and attention, combined with her competitive nature, seems to have overshadowed her moral compass, leading to the grave mistreatment of her own children. "She was in competition in her own mind against them to better them, to make herself feel better, to make herself feel valued for whatever insecurity," Dreeke hypothesizes.

One of the most chilling aspects of the discussion revolves around the normalization of abnormal behavior. Dreeke equates the situation to a "slow boiling frog" where people start accepting and normalizing behavior at a gradual level. By the time the severity of the situation is realized, it has escalated to alarming levels. Brueski laments the missed red flags, "There were a lot of people for a long time that felt that Ruby was off." Yet, even with these warnings, it took an extreme situation – a child escaping from her custody – for decisive action to be taken. Dreeke urges listeners to recognize the signs and speak out: "See something, say something." The conversation wrapped with a somber reflection on the pressures of modern society. The relentless drive for attention, validation, and comparison can lead individuals down dangerous paths. Dreeke emphasizes, "You were in a slow boiling kettle and you didn't realize that you were being manipulated by her normalizing abnormal behavior gradually." As the story of Ruby Franke continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambition and the dark side of social media fame. In today's world, where the quest for likes, views, and subscribers often supersedes genuine human connection, one must ask: How can we ensure the line between reality and the digital world doesn't blur to the point of no return? The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at

Inside Jodi Hildebrandt's Life Coaching That Ruined Lives

Wednesday, September 27, 2023 • Duration 13:32

Utah has been thrown into a whirlwind of controversy following the arrest of YouTube vlogger Ruby Franke's business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, on child abuse charges. Alongside Franke, Hildebrandt was involved in counseling Mormon couples and families through her life coaching service, ConneXions. However, former patients are now shedding light on practices they believe were more akin to a cult than genuine counseling.

Hildebrandt's program, described by seven former patients who accessed her services between 2008 and 2019, methodically isolated individuals from their loved ones, used "truth" and "deception" to manipulate perceptions, and even reportedly shattered marriages. "She wanted everything to stay in the group. You’re not allowed to have a different opinion than her," commented Stephanie Jones, a former patient.

The revelations come amidst a shocking incident where Franke’s malnourished 10-year-old daughter and injured 12-year-old son were found in Hildebrandt's residence, leading to both women facing six counts of felony child abuse. It's essential to underline that these charges are unrelated to the allegations emerging about the ConneXions program.

ConneXions, which Hildebrandt established in 2007, provided courses on relationships and parenting, rooted in the principles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). A primary theme of the program is the dichotomy of "truth" and "deception." When individuals allowed their personal wants, needs, and experiences to overshadow these "truths," they were living in "distortion," according to the ConneXions course material reviewed by NBC News.

Although Franke was prominently featured alongside Hildebrandt in service videos, none of the former clients who came forward claimed to have been counseled by her.

The depth of Hildebrandt's misgivings runs deep, particularly with her focus on porn and sex addiction, especially for men. It's significant to note that "porn addiction" isn't recognized as a legitimate disorder by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Yet, it appears Hildebrandt, formerly specializing in "porn addiction" therapy, had no qualms diagnosing men without evidence of abnormal behaviors.

Spencer Tibbets' story illustrates the profound disconnect in Hildebrandt's methods. At just 16, Tibbets, who had clandestinely obtained a phone for video games, was thrust into a men's group primarily focusing on porn addiction. Despite his lack of understanding about porn, he was exposed to disturbing conversations involving the sexual fantasies of fellow group members. In a past transgression, Hildebrandt faced disciplinary action by Utah officials in 2012 for breaching confidentiality with one of her patients, who later turned out to be Adam Paul Steed. Following this, he had his church privileges revoked, got temporarily suspended from Brigham Young University (BYU), and underwent a divorce, all consequences of Hildebrandt's disclosures and allegations. Reflecting on the devastation, Steed lamented, "My family got destroyed. My life got destroyed." For women like Stephanie Jones and Eliza Tibbets, Hildebrandt's diagnosis of "control addiction" seemed not only unprofessional but also mentally and emotionally detrimental. Both recounted feeling trapped, controlled, and constantly berated if they ever defied Hildebrandt's views. Hildebrandt's professional standing took a major hit recently. The Utah Division of Professional Licensing disclosed last week that she voluntarily surrendered her mental health counseling license, although it remains active but limited. With the dark cloud of abuse allegations looming over her, Hildebrandt's future in mental health counseling looks bleak. It remains to be seen how these events will unfold, but for now, the tale of Jodi Hildebrandt and ConneXions serves as a chilling reminder of the perils of blind trust in authority figures. As investigations continue, Utah's community will no doubt seek answers and justice for the many affected by Hildebrandt's controversial methods. The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at

Malevolent Mormon Mommys | The Case Against Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Malevolent Mormon Mommys | The Case Against Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Other3

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Other3