Behind the Bastards: Part Two - David Berg and the Children of God

Host: Robert Evans
Guest: Ed Helms
Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction

In the second part of the "Behind the Bastards" episode on David Berg, host Robert Evans delves deeper into the dark history of David Berg and his cult, the Children of God. Joined by guest Ed Helms, the discussion unpacks the evolution of Berg's manipulative tactics and the subsequent exploitation within the cult.

David Berg’s Rise and Cult Formation

David Berg emerged as a prominent but malevolent figure, founding the Children of God—a cult that combined elements of Christianity with manipulative and abusive practices. Berg's leadership was marked by his authoritarian control and the establishment of a communal lifestyle for his followers.

Notable Quote:
Robert Evans [04:01]: "We're talking about one of the worst people this country ever produced."

Evolution of Free Love and Flirty Fishing

Initially promoting free love as a means to cultivate unity within the group, Berg’s doctrine soon devolved into systematic sexual exploitation. The practice of "flirty fishing" was introduced as a method to attract new members and secure financial support through the exploitation of female members.

Notable Quote:
Robert Evans [35:12]: "By 1998, records show that members had 'loved' over 223,000 individuals."

Abuse and Exploitation Within the Cult

As the cult grew, so did the severity of Berg’s abuses. He imposed strict controls over his followers' lives, dictating personal aspects such as diet, appearance, and relationships. Berg's manipulative tactics included fostering dependency through "love bombing," a strategy designed to make members feel indispensable to the community.

Notable Quote:
Robert Evans [05:09]: "She seemed pretty important. And he explains to his followers that she had left because... a devil infiltrator inside our organization."

The Role of Karen Zerby

Karen Zerby emerged as a pivotal figure within the cult, transitioning from a controlled follower to a co-leader alongside Berg. Her influence was instrumental in expanding the cult’s reach and implementing more aggressive tactics to maintain control over members.

Notable Quote:
Robert Evans [48:27]: "She's running everything by 93 because he's so sick."

Legal Challenges and Decline

Despite numerous allegations and internal resistance, legal actions against the Children of God were largely ineffective. Berg's strategic relocation and the cult’s ability to destroy incriminating evidence hindered substantial legal repercussions. By the early 1990s, the cult faced declining membership and increased scrutiny, yet significant legal accountability remained elusive.

Notable Quote:
Robert Evans [73:06]: "By 1991, they start to ban, officially ban sex with minors."

Legacy and Continued Influence

After Berg's death in 1994, Karen Zerby took control, perpetuating the cult’s distorted doctrines. The Children of God, now known as The Family International, continues to exist with reduced membership, maintaining a presence through online platforms despite ongoing allegations and the enduring impact of its abusive legacy.

Notable Quote:
Robert Evans [85:37]: "The Family International maintains their websites, claiming to be a normal humanitarian church."

Conclusion

The episode underscores the insidious nature of David Berg's leadership and the profound harm inflicted by the Children of God. It serves as a chilling reminder of how charismatic authority can be exploited to perpetrate widespread abuse under the guise of religious and communal unity.

Final Quote:
Ed Helms [84:48]: "Don’t be like this guy. Don’t get taken in by him."

Note: This summary aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the episode while adhering to respectful and responsible reporting standards. For a deeper understanding, listening to the full episode is recommended.