Podcast Summary: Kat on the Loose – Episode Featuring Father Damon and the Founding of Sanctum
Release Date: August 13, 2025
Introduction to Father Damon and Sanctum
In this compelling episode of "Kat on the Loose," host Kat Zammuto engages in a deep and unfiltered conversation with Damon Loner, also known as Father Damon. Damon is renowned and somewhat controversial in the Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood Hills scenes for founding Sanctum in 2013—a highly exclusive, luxurious, members-only nightclub and sex club. Damon has since authored a revealing book titled "Eyes Wide Open," which delves into his experiences with Sanctum, his personal struggles, including drug use and tumultuous relationships, and the intricate workings behind the scenes of his establishment.
Founding of Sanctum: Vision and Execution
Damon shares the genesis of Sanctum, inspired by the enigmatic atmosphere depicted in the film Eyes Wide Shut. Facing financial instability after leaving his previous venture, Damon ventured into creating Sanctum with minimal resources.
Damon Loner [08:22]: "Sanctum just started to materialize this idea that if I could create something that was secretive and sexual and, you know, kind of Eyes Wide Shut, super exclusive for the Beverly Hills, the wealthiest people... then maybe I could sell tickets to something before it even existed."
Sanctum was meticulously designed to be more than a typical swingers club. It emphasized consent and safety, setting it apart as a sanctuary where members could explore their sexuality freely without judgment.
Damon Loner [16:26]: "There were times when... every couch and every bed was filled with naked bodies and people floating around, even then. But everyone was there as consensual adults."
Sanctum's Ethos: Consent and Safety
A cornerstone of Sanctum's philosophy was consent. Damon implemented strict rules to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all attendees.
Damon Loner [16:22]: "Just ask before you touch. That's what I would say to them."
This approach fostered a trusting and secure atmosphere, allowing members to express themselves sexually without fear. The exclusivity and stringent screening processes attracted a high-profile clientele, including celebrities and influential figures, making Sanctum a coveted and enigmatic venue.
Kat Zammuto [10:39]: "The wealthy aren't driven by necessity, they're pulled in by desire. And that's exactly what you did."
Personal Struggles and the Cost of Success
Despite Sanctum's outward success, Damon reveals the profound personal costs associated with his endeavor. The lavish lifestyle and the pressures of maintaining the club led to the deterioration of his personal relationships, including a 14.5-year abusive marriage.
Damon Loner [21:16]: "Making that decision, if I could go back in a fucking time machine, I would not have done it."
Damon reflects on the emotional and financial toll, describing a period where he was emotionally bankrupt and financially broke, necessitating a complete transformation of his life path.
Media Attention and Legal Entanglements
Sanctum's exclusivity inevitably drew media scrutiny. Damon discusses how public perception was often negative, with misconceptions equating Sanctum to mere orgy parties. However, he emphasizes the club's focus on sensuality and consensual exploration rather than indecent behavior.
Damon Loner [20:58]: "I don't watch a lot of pornography... it's all about coming on women's face. I don't want to come on someone's face. It's not sensual at all."
The episode also touches upon a significant legal setback involving Hunter Biden, a member of Sanctum. Damon's revelation of Hunter's membership led to a media firestorm, exacerbating his personal and professional challenges.
Damon Loner [42:09]: "I don't even want to talk bad about Hunter... but I just forgot to mention that Hunter Biden was a member of Sanctum."
Reflections and Redemption: Writing "Eyes Wide Open"
In an effort to confront his past, Damon authored "Eyes Wide Open," a brutally honest memoir detailing his experiences with Sanctum and his personal demons. The process of writing the book served as a cathartic journey, allowing Damon to forgive himself and begin the path toward redemption.
Damon Loner [49:01]: "I'm in the process of forgiving myself and learning how to love myself and being okay with who I am."
Through the book, Damon acknowledges his narcissistic tendencies and the destructive choices that led to his downfall. He expresses hope that his transparency will inspire others facing similar struggles.
Current State and Future Endeavors
As of the interview, Damon finds himself financially destitute and living with his daughter, reflecting on the fragility of his past successes. Despite this, he remains optimistic about his future, hinting at new projects in the cryptocurrency space and potential new ventures.
Damon Loner [50:32]: "I'm starting from square one again. I really don't know what the future holds for me, but I know that I've never felt so real."
Additionally, there is an upcoming television adaptation of "Eyes Wide Open," with acclaimed actor and writer Brad Follmer attached to the project, signaling a new chapter in Damon's life.
Damon Loner [51:15]: "They have my life rights and that's pretty cool. I'll help with some of the stuff."
Final Reflections and Message
Kat emphasizes the importance of open conversations about sexuality and personal struggles, commending Damon for his honesty. The episode concludes with a mutual recognition of the profound impact Damon's work and experiences have had on both their lives.
Kat Zammuto [52:39]: "Sexuality is not a dirty bad thing. It's complex, it's complicated. It's different for each person."
Damon echoes this sentiment, advocating for honesty and self-awareness in exploring one's desires and relationships.
Damon Loner [53:48]: "If you're honest from the get-go, then you'll know... you have to be honest with yourself."
Notable Quotes
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Damon Loner [08:22]: "Sanctum just started to materialize this idea that if I could create something that was secretive and sexual and, you know, kind of Eyes Wide Shut, super exclusive for the Beverly Hills, the wealthiest people... then maybe I could sell tickets to something before it even existed."
-
Damon Loner [16:22]: "Just ask before you touch. That's what I would say to them."
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Damon Loner [20:58]: "I don't watch a lot of pornography... it's all about coming on women's face. I don't want to come on someone's face. It's not sensual at all."
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Damon Loner [49:01]: "I'm in the process of forgiving myself and learning how to love myself and being okay with who I am."
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Kat Zammuto [52:39]: "Sexuality is not a dirty bad thing. It's complex, it's complicated. It's different for each person."
Conclusion
This episode offers a raw and introspective look into the life of Damon Loner, exploring the rise and fall of Sanctum, his personal battles, and his journey towards self-forgiveness and redemption. "Eyes Wide Open" serves as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope for those grappling with similar issues, underscoring the importance of authenticity, consent, and self-love in navigating the complexities of life and relationships.
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