Lessons From A Cult Survivor | Claire Ashman | TEDxUQ

Claire Ashman was born, raised, and birthed 9 children in a cult. She shares how the prevalence of cults and cult-like thinking affects everyday people. In Australia there are over 3000 cults, with some 600,000 members, meaning we all know, or have had contact with at least one person who is a member of a cult. Cults and secretive groups fill certain voids that all people feel at some point in their lives. Everyone has had a time in their lives when they've felt vulnerable or directionless. For some people, it's easier to have someone give you the answer than living through the pain.
Ashman shares awakening for cult-member’s friends, colleagues and family members to recognize the signs and be present to support upon exiting a cult. Ashman is now happily married, of her own free will, to a supportive raising their 10 kids together. By day she motivates women to take control of their own lives, by night she drives people to free thinking in her Uber.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at