Behind the Bastards: Part One – David Berg and the Children of God (ft. Ed Helms)
Released June 24, 2025 by Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In "Behind the Bastards," hosted by Robert Evans and featuring guest Ed Helms, the podcast delves deep into the life and impact of David Berg, the founder of the notorious cult known as the Children of God or the Family International. This detailed exploration uncovers the complex and dark facets of Berg's life, from his tumultuous upbringing to the establishment and expansion of his cult.

David Berg's Early Life

David Brandt Berg was born on February 18, 1919, to evangelical Christian preachers Virginia and Hjalmer Berg. Growing up in a family immersed in the revival movement, Berg's early life was marked by constant traveling and instability.

Robert Evans [00:43]: "David Berg was born into this zealous minister family, but it was almost too much for his mother."

Berg's parents portrayed a pious image, often embellishing their backstory with miraculous healings that, according to scholars, lacked evidence. This environment fostered a sense of skepticism in young David, who sensed the discrepancies between his parents' narratives and reality.

Childhood Trauma and Psychological Impact

Berg's childhood was fraught with trauma, including sexual abuse by a family maid starting at the age of three. His mother's violent response to the abuse further complicated his perception of authority and punishment.

Robert Evans [15:11]: "He's stacking a lot of trauma. At age seven, another confusing sexual encounter leaves him frustrated and angry."

These early experiences instilled in Berg a deep-seated resentment and confusion regarding normalcy and authority, setting the stage for his future manipulative behaviors.

Transition to Adolescence and Early Evangelical Efforts

As Berg entered his teenage years, his family's financial stability waned during the Great Depression, leading to their relocation to California. Despite attending Monterey High School, Berg's claims of scholastic excellence during this period remain unsubstantiated.

Robert Evans [20:15]: "He strips himself of a normal education, unable to find a path outside of his parents' evangelical work."

His brief stint at the Elliott School of Business Administration ended prematurely as he returned to full-time preaching, following in his parents' footsteps but without a clear direction.

Formation of Teens for Christ

Following a lackluster military service claim during World War II—later scrutinized for its veracity—Berg married Jane Miller in 1944 and began fathering four children. By the late 1960s, disillusioned with organized religion and seeking greater power, Berg established "Teens for Christ," targeting disaffected hippie youth.

Robert Evans [45:27]: "He implored, 'Reject society,' and evoked a crazed Santa figure to attract followers."

Under the guise of integrating evangelical messages with countercultural ideals, Berg's organization began attracting a growing number of young followers, laying the groundwork for the Children of God cult.

Establishment and Expansion of the Children of God

Post his mother's death in 1968, Berg's resentment towards traditional structures exploded. He rebranded Teens for Christ into the Children of God, merging Pentecostal evangelism with radical sexual doctrines. This transformation marked the shift from a seemingly benign youth group to a controlling and abusive cult.

Robert Evans [56:21]: "After his mother's death, he declared, 'We are the Children of God,' fundamentally altering the group's dynamics."

Berg implemented strict controls over daily life, including chore lists and communal living arrangements, while simultaneously promoting sexual liberation as a means of control and manipulation.

Sexual Abuse and Misconduct

Throughout the early 1970s, Berg's cult engaged in widespread sexual abuse, both within the group and towards outsiders. His justification hinged on twisted interpretations of biblical passages, authorizing his exploitation of followers.

Robert Evans [67:38]: "He convinced himself and us that he was the greatest man who ever lived, second to Jesus."

Berg's charismatic yet volatile leadership fostered an environment where abuse was normalized and perpetuated, devastating countless lives and leaving lasting scars on his followers.

Charisma and Manipulative Control

Berg's ability to switch between charming leadership and tyrannical control made him a compelling yet dangerous figure. His followers were drawn to his promise of salvation and radical change, only to be entrapped in his web of manipulation and abuse.

Robert Evans [64:23]: "He is mercurial... from being your best friend to punishing you in seconds."

This psychological manipulation ensured loyalty and dependence, making it exceedingly difficult for members to leave the cult despite the evident abuses.

Conclusion

Part One of the "Behind the Bastards" episode on David Berg provides a harrowing look into the making of one of history's most manipulative cult leaders. Through a meticulous examination of Berg's early life, psychological trauma, and the evolution of his cult, the podcast sheds light on the intricate dynamics that enabled the Children of God to flourish. Ed Helms' insightful contributions help unravel the complexities of Berg's character, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of how personal trauma and charismatic authority can culminate in widespread harm.

Stay tuned for Part Two, where the podcast promises to explore further the dark legacy of David Berg and the Children of God, including surprising celebrity connections and the eventual unraveling of the cult.

Notable Quotes:

• Robert Evans [00:44]: "I think we can agree with that. You're definitely the helmsest of ED's."

• Robert Evans [15:11]: "He's stacking a lot of trauma. At age seven, another confusing sexual encounter leaves him frustrated and angry."

• Robert Evans [56:21]: "After his mother's death, he declared, 'We are the Children of God,' fundamentally altering the group's dynamics."

• Robert Evans [64:23]: "He is mercurial... from being your best friend to punishing you in seconds."

Note: Advertisements and non-content sections have been excluded to focus solely on the substantive discussions about David Berg and the Children of God.