Podcast Title: Something Was Wrong
Episode: S24 Ep8: You Are Not Alone
Host: Tiffany Reiss
Release Date: August 14, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 8 of Season 24, titled "You Are Not Alone," Broken Cycle Media delves deep into the harrowing experiences of survivors from therapeutic boarding schools. Hosted by Tiffany Reiss, the episode features candid conversations with survivors who recount their journeys through institutions like Aldren Academy and Copper Canyon Academy (CCA). The episode sheds light on the enduring trauma, abuse, and complex aftermath faced by those who endured these environments.

Background of Aldren Academy

Tiffany Reiss begins by providing a comprehensive background of Aldren Academy, a private therapeutic boarding school in Seiler City, North Carolina. Established in 2001 and later acquired by Sequel Youth and Family Services in 2009, Aldren Academy marketed itself as a trauma-informed, college preparatory program. However, the institution faced widespread allegations of abuse, leading to its closure in February 2021 amid declining enrollment and increased scrutiny.

Tiffany Reiss [01:00]: "In 2009, Three Springs, Inc. was acquired by Sequel Youth and Family Services. Aldren Academy remained operational for nearly two decades before it was closed in February 2021."

Experiences at Aldren Academy

Catt, one of the primary guests, shares her personal journey through Aldren Academy, highlighting the stark differences and similarities compared to CCA.

• Initial Impressions and Living Conditions:

  Catt describes Aldren as a "step down" from CCA, offering more freedoms such as wearing personal clothes and having individual rooms instead of bunk beds. Despite these perceived improvements, the environment remained oppressive and manipulative.

  Catt [06:24]: "At first, I thought it was gonna be a pleasure cruise compared to Copper Canyon, but it doesn't matter if you get more freedoms. It was still a pretty awful place."

• Psychological Manipulation and Abuse:

  The institution employed "attack therapy," psychological mind games, and coercive tactics to control and isolate students. Instances of staff turning students against each other and enforcing strict punitive measures were common.

  Catt [12:32]: "I felt like I was constantly walking on eggshells and ostracized. That's not the only instance that they've literally had us turn on each other."

• Violation of Privacy and Betrayal of Trust:

  Catt recounts an incident where discovering a HIPAA violation led to her being accused of hacking, resulting in her emotional breakdown and temporary placement in a psych ward.

  Catt [10:40]: "I was showing the girls in the Internet cafe... but they then accused me of hacking their network."

Comparison with Copper Canyon Academy (CCA)

Both Aldren Academy and CCA exhibited strict and abusive practices, but their methods varied:

• CCA's Punitive Measures:

  Punishments at CCA involved "work hours" where students were made to perform strenuous labor for extended periods.

  Catt [17:04]: "We had over 12 hours of cleaning. That meant you got up at 5 in the morning and... scrub grout with a toothbrush."

• Aldren's Psychological Tactics:

  Aldren employed more psychological manipulation, including forcing students to betray one another and creating an environment of distrust and fear.

  Catt [22:21]: "There was a wild accusation scene where some girls drank a beer... it's unethical."

Life After the Programs

Catt discusses the tumultuous period following her time at Aldren Academy:

• Military Service and Subsequent Struggles:

  Seeking structure, Catt joined the military but found it traumatic, leading to depression and further challenges during her service.

  Catt [24:57]: "I was between homelessness and couch surfing. Then I joined the military because I needed structure."

• Homelessness and Addiction:

  Post-military life was marred by homelessness, substance abuse, and lack of life skills, leading to a prolonged period of instability.

  Catt [28:36]: "From age 19 to 20, I was between homelessness and couch surfing... I learned how to dissociate really well."

• Recovery and Relocation:

  Moving to Chicago in 2017 marked a turning point, where Catt achieved sobriety from heroin and alcohol, reflecting on how her past influenced her present.

  Catt [28:36]: "Living in this city has been the best thing that has happened to me. I've been almost nine years clean from heroin."

Relationships with Parents

The strained relationships with parents, exacerbated by the time spent in therapeutic boarding schools, are a recurring theme:

• Parental Estrangement:

  Catt expresses resentment towards her parents for sending her away and the lack of meaningful communication and support.

  Catt [22:29]: "I don't blame them entirely, but they kind of created a monster in that aspect."

• Reconciliation Efforts:

  Following her mother's passing, Catt attempts to redefine her relationship with her father as peers, finding some comfort in this new dynamic.

  Catt [35:55]: "It was nice because she jumped on that and it was kind of like having a mom again."

Incidents of Sexual Assault and Breach of Trust

The episode addresses the grave issue of sexual misconduct by staff members within these institutions:

• Abuse of Power:

  Catt shares distressing experiences where trusted staff members violated her boundaries, leading to lasting trauma and trust issues.

  Catt [31:46]: "It's something you don't want to hear when it's a trusted individual... It absolutely shatters your trust."

• Peer Betrayal and Gaslighting:

  Survivors were often discouraged from speaking out, facing disbelief and victim-blaming, which compounded their trauma.

  Catt [32:21]: "Who’s going to believe you? Me, a staff member, or you a troubled teen?"

Reflections and Healing

The conversation culminates in reflections on healing, resilience, and the importance of support networks for survivors:

• Empowerment and Support:

  Catt emphasizes the strength and resilience of survivors, urging them to seek support and reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.

  Catt [43:27]: "You are not alone. And please reach out. If you are ever going through something... there's a bunch of people who have been through this who are going to be there."

• Message to Perpetrators:

  Catt addresses those responsible for the abuse with a powerful condemnation, highlighting the long-term impacts of their actions.

  Catt [42:22]: "Shame on you to each and every one of them... People who ran the programs, fuck you. I'm still here and I'm doing great."

Conclusion

Episode 8 of "Something Was Wrong" offers a raw and unflinching look into the lives of survivors from abusive therapeutic boarding schools. Through the voices of Catt and her friend, listeners gain insight into the pervasive trauma, manipulation, and the arduous path to healing. The episode serves as a testament to the resilience of survivors and underscores the critical need for accountability and systemic change in such institutions.

Notable Quotes:

• Catt [06:24]: "At first, I thought it was gonna be a pleasure cruise compared to Copper Canyon, but it doesn't matter if you get more freedoms. It was still a pretty awful place."

• Catt [22:21]: "There was a wild accusation scene where some girls drank a beer... it's unethical."

• Catt [43:27]: "You are not alone. And please reach out. If you are ever going through something... there's a bunch of people who have been through this who are going to be there."

• Catt [42:22]: "Shame on you to each and every one of them... People who ran the programs, fuck you. I'm still here and I'm doing great."

This episode serves as a crucial platform for survivors to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and validation for those who have endured similar hardships. It also calls for introspection and reform within institutions tasked with the care and rehabilitation of vulnerable youth.