About this episode
In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Stephanie J. Wong and Ellen Huet dive deep into the intersection of mental health, culture, and the emotional toll of investigative journalism. From the personal challenges of reporting on trauma to the hidden world of wellness cults, this conversation offers a raw and insightful look at the human cost of telling difficult stories. ? Highlights: Mental Health in Journalism: Stephanie and Ellen discuss how journalists cope with emotionally triggering material and the intense scrutiny that comes with high-profile stories. Ellen shares her unique perspective on maintaining empathy while still doing her job with care and responsibility. Career Shift to Tech Journalism: Ellen opens up about the progression of her career, which included Tech journalism at Bloomberg News, where she first encountered OneTaste, a controversial wellness startup promoting orgasmic meditation. The Rise and Fall of OneTaste: Ellen takes us inside her investigation into OneTaste—a company founded on the concept of orgasmic meditation, which quickly became entangled in allegations of exploitation, sexual manipulation, and financial pressure. She discusses the company's founder, Nicole Daedone, and the deep psychological and cultural factors that led to its rise—and ultimate downfall. The Impact of Reporting on Sensitive Topics: Ellen reflects on the emotional toll of covering sensitive subjects, particularly when interviewing individuals who have been deeply affected by the practices of groups like OneTaste. Stephanie and Ellen explore the paralells between investigative reporting and trauma therapy, as well as the boundaries needed to protect journalists' mental health. Cults, Red Flags, and What to Watch Out For: The episode also delves into the psychology behind cult-like communities, discussing how people often join groups they believe will offer healing and personal growth, only to find themselves trapped in manipulative systems. Ellen shares key red flags to look out for and the importance of responsible journalism in bringing these hidden stories to light. Ellen's New Book: The episode concludes with a sneak peek into Ellen's upcoming book,
