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

by True Crime Today

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.

Copyright: Real Story Media

Episodes

Do Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Still Have Loyal Fans?

6m · Published 03 Oct 21:00
The trust placed in a therapist is significant. People open up about their most personal and deep-seated issues, hoping to find solutions and heal. But what happens when that trust is broken and, worse, when the guidance provided seems to intentionally destroy relationships? This question has been echoing throughout the latest episodes of the "Hidden Killers" podcast.
The spotlight has been thrust upon Jodi Hildebrandt, a therapist recently accused of questionable practices that appear to have had a detrimental effect on couples who consulted her. As shared by podcast host Tony Brueski, " ...absolutely miserably her counseling and marriage counseling failed them, oftentimes seeming like she was going out of her way to break the couples up. "
Moreover, it appears that there may be an underlying bias, as Brueski continued, " ...seemingly she had quite a vendetta against males. " Such allegations, if proven, could mean a breach of the ethical responsibility a therapist owes to their clients.
The discussion escalated when legal implications came to the forefront. Former Federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani weighed in on the potential fallout.
Speaking of potential lawsuits for emotional distress or professional malpractice, Rahmani explained, " It's possible, you know some sort of professional liability or malpractice claim. " However, the practicalities of such actions are more complicated.
There's a grave concern about Hildebrandt's diagnostic methods, as Brueski noted, " She is diagnosing folks with things that really aren't even in the DSM book. " Misdiagnosis could indeed lead to significant harm to patients. Drawing parallels with another case, the Kouri Richins situation, Rahmani outlined the practicality of potential lawsuits. Essentially, pursuing legal action might be viable, but the outcome in terms of monetary recovery remains uncertain. " The chances of you collecting on this might be slim to none, " Rahmani pointed out, emphasizing that even if a judgment is secured, enforcing it is another challenge altogether.
Yet the controversy around Hildebrandt does not end with her therapy methods. More serious charges have emerged, including child abuse. The public's response to such allegations is unpredictable. Rahmani, with his experience in representing and suing celebrities, provided a perspective that might be hard for many to digest. He said, " I've seen it where people...refuse to believe that their favorite celebrity can do any wrong despite the evidence. " This is a stark reminder that public perception can often overshadow facts and testimonies.
Concluding their discussion, both Brueski and Rahmani seemed to share a mutual concern. Despite the grave charges and evidence, there might still be a group of loyal followers who could continue to champion Hildebrandt and her co-accused.
In the world of social media and digital influence, where belief systems can spread like wildfire, the consequences of misplaced trust are more magnified than ever. The conversation on "Hidden Killers" underlines the need for due diligence and the importance of upholding ethical standards, especially in professions that have a direct impact on people's lives.
But the unsettling question remains: What if, despite all the evidence and legal outcomes, such individuals return to public life and continue to influence unsuspecting followers?
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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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Will Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Make a Comeback?

6m · Published 03 Oct 19:00
Does a therapist's background truly reflect the quality of the service they provide? This question has taken center stage after a recent discussion on the "Hidden Killers" podcast where Tony Brueski and former FBI Special Agent, Jennifer Coffindaffer, scrutinized the credentials and malpractice allegations against Jodi Hildebrandt.
In the eye of a storm are allegations against Hildebrandt regarding her questionable practices. “We've, in the last week, learned more about Jodi Hildebrandt's practice... Lots of men specifically claiming abuse,” Brueski opened the discussion. As Coffindaffer delved into her background, it was revealed that Hildebrandt might not have had the qualifications she professed. “She just in a nutshell, was not qualified to even be giving this sort of counseling. No,” Brueski remarked, to which Coffindaffer added, "From my understanding, her background... was really working in a drug rehab type facility."
One of the most alarming aspects to emerge was the scale of Hildebrandt's influence. Despite her apparently insufficient background, “people, millions, 2 million, right? Were subscribing to listen to advice,” Coffindaffer said. The situation begs the question of why so many sought guidance from someone whose credentials might not stand up to scrutiny. It's a stark reminder of the importance of due diligence, especially when it concerns one's mental health.
While the focus was predominantly on Hildebrandt, Brueski also pointed out another individual named Ruby, who, like Hildebrandt, had "no PhDs or anything in counseling." Yet both had an alarming level of influence, further emphasizing the risks associated with blind trust.
A pressing concern is the lasting damage caused by Hildebrandt's alleged malpractice. As Brueski aptly stated, “That's what I'm wondering about is the damage that has been done.” Given the sensitive nature of therapy and the intimate trust patients place in their therapists, such malpractice allegations are particularly concerning.
The potential for legal action was another focal point of their conversation. Despite the apparent harm caused by Hildebrandt's practices, the feasibility of victims seeking justice remains unclear. "I think those are difficult cases to prove and quite costly," commented Coffindaffer, hinting at the challenges victims might face in court.
However, beyond the legal intricacies and the potential for redress, a more pressing concern looms: the long-term consequences of such alleged malpractice. “We're not talking murder here... And it makes me wonder, you know, how long will these people really go away if they are convicted?” Brueski inquired. Coffindaffer responded, “I don't think they're going to be gone long.” The high profile nature of the case might not necessarily lead to stricter sentences.
In wrapping up their discussion, Brueski and Coffindaffer pondered the future of such individuals. Given their influence and the dedication of their following, a return to the public eye wouldn't be surprising. Coffindaffer eerily forecasted, "I can hear the podcast right now... I think that she absolutely will use this situation in the future to have another podcast."
What's clear is that the aftermath of these allegations will continue to unfold, with countless individuals left grappling with the repercussions. As we reflect on the information revealed and anticipate the next developments, we're compelled to ask: How much should trust weigh in the realms of public influence and therapy, and where should we draw the line?
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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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Will Alleged Abusive Mommy Bloggers See More Charges?

7m · Published 03 Oct 15:00
In the latest episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers", host Tony Brueski sat down with renowned Defense Attorney Bob Motta, also known for his contributions to the podcast "Defense Diaries". The two delved deep into the recent controversies surrounding therapist Jodi Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke. The revelations, which have stunned many, pertain to Hildebrandt’s questionable approach to counseling and allegations of potential harm caused to patients.
"Numerous people have claimed that they sought help from Jodi Hildebrandt, only to face further destruction of their marriages and relationships," shared Tony, setting the backdrop. Indeed, some of these claims also hint at a possible bias of Hildebrandt against men.
Motta was prompt to weigh in: "When they're given bad advice that they know their patients are going to more likely than not incorporate into their own lives, I think there could be some liability there." He elaborated that there could be multiple avenues of legal action, including claims for intentional infliction of emotional distress or civil fraud. "The question is, can you make the case?" he pondered.
However, the key concern, as both the host and Motta discussed, was the feasibility of such suits. While there seems to be potential for victims to file a case against Hildebrandt, the practicality of recovering damages remains uncertain, given the financial standing of the accused. Motta noted that while anyone can sue, assessing the depth of pockets is often the first step for a plaintiff's counsel. Yet, there's no doubt that the implications are serious, especially considering the emotional vulnerability of patients seeking counseling.
Then came the discussion of Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt’s charges. "Child abuse is a very serious thing," Tony highlighted, noting the frequency with which such cases appear before courts and sometimes the shockingly lenient punishments that follow. Motta, being careful not to preempt the court’s judgment, did indicate the gravity of the situation. "It's serious charges. The things that they have in their favor are the fact that they probably don't have any criminal background," he said. This could possibly influence the final decision, especially considering that every case has its nuances.
Motta further added perspective on how certain parenting choices might or might not fall within the statute's definition of abuse, citing the example of a child being responsible for making her own sandwich. "I don’t know that's child abuse. Like, I would never personally do that with my kid," he said. This draws attention to the thin line between parenting styles and potential harm to a child.
In summary, while the podcast episode did not conclude on a specific note about the potential outcomes for Franke and Hildebrandt, it did bring up important questions surrounding accountability in professional roles, especially in sensitive areas like counseling. As with any high-profile case, the repercussions are multifaceted, and the outcomes can set precedents for similar cases in the future.
Given the complexity and sensitivity of such issues, one can’t help but ponder: How does society strike a balance between trust in professionals and accountability for potential harm?
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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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Is Ruby Franke Another Victim of Jodi Hildebrandt?

11m · Published 03 Oct 10:00
Ruby Franke's fall from grace sent shockwaves through the millions who faithfully followed her family-centric "8 Passengers" YouTube channel. The discovery of one of her six children, emaciated, covered in sores, and bound with duct tape, in Santa Clara, Utah, raised alarm bells and ended her career as a YouTube influencer.
Franke had always portrayed a picture-perfect life. "The Mormon mom appeared as if she led a loving, nurturing family life with a husband and a big brood of children," said a longtime viewer. However, that façade crumbled when alarming details emerged about her association with the controversial therapist, Jodi Hildebrandt, 54.
According to sources close to Franke, her demeanor began to shift after she started her association with Hildebrandt. A friend of Franke for over two decades revealed to Page Six, "Ruby’s values took a drastic turn. Suddenly, she was telling lies and becoming increasingly distant, cutting off her family with seemingly no explanation."
Jodi Hildebrandt was well-known in Santa Clara as a licensed therapist through her organization, ConneXions. This institution pitched itself as an online educational platform designed to help individuals navigate relationship challenges, anxiety, and more. However, beneath this respectable exterior, darker currents flowed. Hildebrandt and Franke’s close relationship led to rampant speculation, with some even drawing parallels to the iconic "Thelma & Louise."
As the duo ventured on numerous trips together, rumors started to swirl about the nature of their relationship. Randy S. Kester, who represented Franke's husband Kevin, stated that while there were murmurs, "I don’t have any concrete evidence of a romantic relationship, other than some video content that showed them holding hands."
Franke's husband Kevin, who was previously a professor at Brigham Young University, echoed these sentiments. He believed that his wife’s association with Hildebrandt significantly impacted their marital relationship. Franke became more distant, frequently leaving Kevin to care for their children while she traveled on business with Hildebrandt. Kester reported that "Kevin was supportive, hoping that these trips were part of Ruby's self-development journey."
Julie Deru, one of Franke’s sisters, expressed her discomfort with Hildebrandt’s teachings. "We were concerned about the messages Ruby started to propagate at family gatherings. They felt alien and contrary to what we knew."
Indeed, as time went on, Franke’s content began shifting. Once filled with wholesome family moments, her channels were gradually dominated by Hildebrandt, with topics such as "tactics of deception," "establishing a truth declaration," and discourses against "lust."
The crux of the concerns revolved around ConneXions' dubious counseling practices. Kevin Franke himself was roped into a men's group supported by Hildebrandt. For over a year, he was subjected to what many describe as emotional manipulation, being labeled "greedy," "narcissistic," and "selfish." These sessions were believed to be the driving force behind Kevin’s decision to move out, a move purportedly influenced by Hildebrandt.
However, perhaps the most shocking revelation came from Jessi Hildebrandt, Jodi's niece. In a heart-wrenching interview, she detailed her traumatic experiences while in Jodi's care as a teenager. Her stories of being tied up, blindfolded, and isolated for hours echoed the harrowing ordeal faced by Franke's child. Jessi declared, "Jodi firmly believes that shame should be punished severely."
Pam Bodtcher, described as "Jodi's surveillance," was another figure deeply involved in ConneXions. Jessi hinted at her complicit role, painting a picture of an intricate web of manipulation and control.
The dark saga culminated in August when the police were called to check on one of Franke's children. The subsequent investigation unveiled disturbing truths about what had transpired behind closed doors.
As the community grapples with this harrowing revelation, many believe that Hildebrandt was the mastermind. Franke's longtime friend summed it up: "While Ruby is not innocent, I believe there's hope for her to be rehabilitated. Jodi, however, is a different story."
This tale serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers lurking behind seemingly perfect facades and the importance of discernment in the world of online influence.
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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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

WEEK IN REVIEW-Inside Jodi Hildebrandt's Life Coaching That Ruined Lives

13m · Published 01 Oct 17:00
Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's 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 made 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.
Each episode navigates through multiple 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 "Week 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 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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

WEEK IN REVIEW-Was Ruby Franke's Husband Also A Victim Of Her Abuse?

8m · Published 01 Oct 13:00
Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's 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 made 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.
Each episode navigates through multiple 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 "Week 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 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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

WEEK IN REVIEW-Will Ruby Franke's Husband Face Charges Too?

7m · Published 01 Oct 11:00
Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's 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 made 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.
Each episode navigates through multiple 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 "Week 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 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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

WEEK IN REVIEW-Was Ruby Franke's Husband Complicit In Abuse Of Children?

6m · Published 01 Oct 01:00
Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's 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 made 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.
Each episode navigates through multiple 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 "Week 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 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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Did The LDS Church Fund Alleged Child Abuser Mommy Bloggers?

5m · Published 29 Sep 23:00
"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?"
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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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Were Mommy Bloggers Preying On Vulnerable LDS Members?

7m · Published 29 Sep 13:00
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?
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 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 https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Malevolent Mormon Mommys | The Case Against Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt has 110 episodes in total of non- explicit content. Total playtime is 16:48:51. The language of the podcast is English. This podcast has been added on March 3rd 2024. It might contain more episodes than the ones shown here. It was last updated on May 30th, 2024 05:10.

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