In advance of the request for a new trial, Aaron Smith-Levin has managed to beg enough money from his followers to pay off his court fines.
His hearing for a request for a new trial is coming up on May 29, 2026. This should make no difference in the outcome of his hearing. It is odd, and possibly a mistake, but the bottom of this document requests that it be returned to felony court records.
I just learned of this and am posting it because I don't recall its having been mentioned here previously.
Aaron's protest against the judge was livestreamed on Eric Raider's (YUCK!) YouTube channel 4 days ago.
May 10th, 2026 - Blown for Good - Scientology Exposed
Join host Claire Headley and guest Clara for the premiere of the Cult Survivor Series, for an exploration of life beyond high-control groups. In this deeply personal discussion, Claire reflects on her 30 years within Scientology, sharing the unique challenges of being born into the organization and the psychological weight of the billion-year contract.
The episode delves into how specialized language and "loaded" terminology are used as control mechanisms to stifle independent thought and gaslight members. Claire also shares her harrowing path to freedom, including legal battles and the transformative power of reading banned books like Barefaced Messiah. This synopsis invites you to witness a powerful conversation about reclaiming agency, the importance of therapy, and the ongoing nature of recovery. Watch now to learn how survivors support one another through the Aftermath Foundation.
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May 10th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Underground Bunker Substack
For Scientology, families are just "temporary assemblies of meat bodies". This poignant Underground Bunker report features mothers sharing their heartbreak over the "disconnection" policy that rips parents from children. From Claire Headley's bittersweet reflections to stories of flowers sent into the "abyss," these testimonials expose a "fate more cruel than death". Read the full article to witness their defiance and hope for reconciliation.
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May 10th, 2026 - Wrath of Xenu
Small Canadian operative Wrath of Xenu gives us a video update on the Toronto Church of Scientology building.
Once viewed as one of Scientology's most prized real estate in the heart of downtown Toronto with hundreds of working Staff and Sea Org Members up to mid 2000s, the building has been boarded and left to the elements for over a decade despite fundraising millions of dollars from Canadian Scientologists.
This video follows his update on the construction project of Canada's Advanced Organization in Ontario's Orange County this winter, Scientology's ambitious project to resuscitate a private resort into an advanced org capable of delivering OT levels, stalled and left to rot in Ontario country roads for the last 15 years.
Scientology Canada did not anticipate collapse of its membership over the 2000s and is left in a conundrum of continuing to promise and fundraise for construction projects to its parishioners, extracting their life savings, while incapable of informing them of the desolate condition of their holdings and numbers.
Thank you, Mr Wrath.
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May 10th, 2026 - LARA FM
A deeply personal Mother’s Day update with Lara Anderson (Lara FM) as she shares her journey of healing and mothering from the California desert. Born and raised as an "unmothered kid of Scientology," Lara reflects on the "disgusting poison" of disconnection policies that severed ties with her biological mother, who remains in the Sea Org.
Witness a unique full-circle moment as Lara and her dog, Foxy, nurse three orphaned kittens: Tiggy, Black Beauty, and Pinto Bean, providing the unconditional love Lara was once denied. Beyond the rescue stories, Lara reaffirms her commitment to exposing Scientology’s crimes, dismantling the Sea Org, and protecting children from the organization's high-control environment. Join Lara for a day of music, vulnerability, and resilience as she reclaims her life as a full-time artist and advocate.
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May 11th 2026 - Tony Ortega's Underground Bunker Substack
Tony Ortega’s latest report dives into the 2024 Patron Trophy Ceremony, where elite donors like Grant and Elena Cardone were honored as "Diamond Laureates" for contributing $15 million. Discover the high-stakes world of donor "statuses", the intense pressure to fund the International Association of Scientologists and pictorama of this year's high stakes donors.
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May 12th, 2026 - Dr Steven Hassan Substack
Dr Hassan celebrates his 50th anniversary of deprogramming from the "Moonies" and 20th anniversary of cure from Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
Exploring his deep dive into the architecture of authoritarian influence. In this article, Hassan revisits a 1987 blueprint that predicted the rise of the Christian Right and the "Cult of Trump". Discover how the "Moonies" established a vast political and media infrastructure—including the Washington Times—that still fuels movements like Project 2025. Using his BITE Model, Hassan reveals how these high-control tactics have been "hacking" the American mind for decades. Read now to uncover the historical roots of today's political landscape and understand the machinery behind modern theocratic goals.
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May 12th 2026 - Tony Ortega's Underground Bunker Substack
Could a secret "Brady violation" overturn Danny Masterson’s conviction? His attorney argues a prosecutor withheld information regarding a victim’s disability accommodation request, potentially undermining the trial's fairness.
Read the full report at the Underground Bunker for the latest updates on Masterson’s fight for freedom
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May 12th, 2026 - Scientology Peeling the Onion
Dive with Mark Fisher and Janice Gillham Grady interviewing Jay Reid, who joined the Sea Org in 1971 and rose to become L. Ron Hubbard’s personal steward aboard the flagship Apollo.
Reid offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at Hubbard’s private life following a severe motorcycle accident, detailing everything from Hubbard’s vitamin regimens to their candid conversations about sports and basketball. His journey is filled with dramatic turns, including a daring attempt to "jump ship" in Portugal and his eventual rise to RPF Boatswain. This episode explores Reid's transition from high-control discipline to a successful life as an artist and construction superintendent. Watch now to hear firsthand stories about the realities of life on the Apollo and Reid’s surprising final interaction with Hubbard.
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May 13th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Underground Bunker Substack
Tony reports on Xavier Becerra's "meteoric rise" in California’s gubernatorial polling, uncovering the candidate's long history as a reliable Scientology booster. From joining Rena Weinberg to dedicate the ABLE international headquarters in 2000 to being a featured speaker at a star-studded 2003 gala, Becerra’s public record reveals surprisingly deep ties to the organization.
The article highlights chilling contrasts between Becerra's praising of Scientology while the very executives he shared the stage with later "vanished" into the organization's notorious prison for executives.
Read the full article to explore Becerra’s history with Scientology front groups.
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May 13th, 2026 - The Documentation TV, Past Present Future Podcast
The Documentation published a highlights video from their May 4th interview with Alex Barnes-Ross.
Alex exposes the organization's high-control tactics, including forced disconnections from family and the psychological pressure of being locked in a room to "confess" when Scientology "fails" to work. From grueling work schedules to the constant threat of being forced onto a diet of rice and beans for low statistics, this interview reveals the totalitarian mindset required to survive. Watch now to hear Alex's harrowing path to freedom and how he finally broke the cycle of indoctrination.
In this compelling interview on the PPF Podcast, Alex Barnes-Ross shares his journey from a committed recruiter to signing a billion-year contract. Discover the reality of the "Bridge to Total Freedom," where reaching levels like OT3 can cost over half a million pounds and reveal hidden scriptures about "space aliens" and galactic warlords.
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May 14th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Underground Bunker Substack
Contrary to tabloid rumors that Danny Masterson was "excommunicated," David Miscavige is doubling down on a high-stakes legal crusade to free the convicted serial rapist. In this latest report from Tony Ortega’s Underground Bunker, uncover Scientology’s second attempt to file a revised amicus brief after their initial effort—which cost an estimated $500,000—was rejected by the court.
Read the full report to see the legal application and understand why this is a story most mainstream media outlets are missing.
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May 14th, 2026 - The Michael J. Rinder Aftermath Foundation
Ever wondered how Scientology actually recruits? It’s rarely about religion—it’s about the "bait and hook." In this AMA answer from the Michael J. Rinder Aftermath Foundation, learn how the organization uses free personality tests to find your "ruin"—the specific pain point in your life they claim they can fix.
The video explains the powerful combination of "love bombing" and targeted self-improvement programs used to recruit high achievers and idealists rather than "weak" people. If you or someone you know is looking for a way out, the Aftermath Foundation offers a 24/7 crisis line at 888-FREE-002. Watch now to uncover the truth behind the recruitment process and feel free to join the conversation in the comments and ask Clara your questions about Scientology.
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May 14th, 2026 - Dodge Landesman
This Council of Suppressives acknowledges Dodge's return to investigative journalism focused on Scientology avoiding entanglements with the ex-cult drama of SPTV.
Adding his own personal investigative work on Tony Ortega's article on former HHS Secretary and California Governor candidate Xavier Beccera, Dodge breaks down the startling ties between the Governor frontrunner and Scientology leader David Miscavige, who reportedly viewed Becerra as a "trusted" contact to reach out to whenever the group needed anything.
Drawing from years of research, Landesman details Becerra's history of endorsing Scientology front groups like ABLE and praising the "undying commitment" of Scientologists at the Hollywood Celebrity Centre. Having been fired from local TV news for reporting on the group's "tentacles" in the celebrity and political spheres, Landesman argues that these connections are "10 times worse" than previous political scandals and deserve urgent public scrutiny.
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May 15th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Underground Bunker Substack
Discover the deep-seated ties between California gubernatorial frontrunner Xavier Becerra and Scientology in this investigative report from Tony Ortega’s Underground Bunker.
The article exposes Becerra’s long history as an "enthusiastic Scientology booster," including his 1997 defense of the organization on the House floor, to gala photos with Tom Cruise and officials who later vanished into "the Hole" to his office's continued support of Scientology front groups as recently as 2016.
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May 15th, 2026 - Scientology Business, Alex Barnes-Ross
East Grinstead Town Council is under fire for refusing to meet with Scientology survivors while Mayors frequently attend events at the Church’s headquarters. In this article by Alex Barnes-Ross, discover testimonies of residents demanding accountability and questioning the Council's "impartiality" and its impact on the community.
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May 16th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Underground Bunker Substack
Tony Ortega’s Underground Bunker report on the death of Heber Jentzsch. While David Miscavige has issued a rare, poetic tribute honoring the longtime president, former insiders reveal a harrowing history of humiliation and physical abuse.
Ortega also offers a deeply personal response from Heber’s ex-wife, Karen de la Carriere, who exposes Heber’s years in "The Hole," the bizarre ways he was tormented and the tragic impact of disconnection on their family.
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May 16th, 2026 - Chris Shelton
Chris Shelton and former Scientologist Jeff Levin speak of L. Ron Hubbard’s "Art Series" and his self-portrayal as a creative visionary.
They explores how Hubbard utilized his self-proclaimed status as a musician, writer, and photographer to exert influence over celebrities and artistic professionals within the organization. They argue that his focus on functional technique and rigid research ultimately stifled the soul and emotional authenticity of the work produced by his followers.
They contrast Hubbard’s amateur technical approach with the profound human connection found in mainstream artistry, suggesting that high-control groups inevitably suppress the empathy and curiosity necessary for true creativity.
The show provides a critical perspective on how Scientology rebrands humanitarian and artistic efforts as tools for organizational management and public relations.
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May 17th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Underground Bunker Substack
Tony reports on Scientology celebrity Danny Masterson facing pivotal oral arguments hearing on June 25. Currently serving 30 years to life for two counts of forcible rape, Masterson’s future hinges on this direct appeal.
Tony Ortega’s Underground Bunker updates us on the legal maneuvers that could determine if Masterson stays behind bars or wins a new trial.
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Are we missing someone? Still working on it! Bellyache in the comments below.
This summary provides a detailed and structured overview of Marilyn Honig’s members-only livestream from May 14, 2026.
The stream serves as an informal "check-in" with Marilyn’s dedicated members. The atmosphere is curated to be supportive, allowing Marilyn to discuss personal updates and community drama without facing immediate pushback from critics. The broadcast moves between domestic topics (gardening and family) and sharp rebuttals against rival YouTube creators, specifically Reese Quibell (RelatableReese) and Nora (Nora Ames).
Marilyn begins the stream with lighthearted domestic updates:
A significant portion of the stream is dedicated to a recent online confrontation involving Marilyn’s daughter, Haley:
Marilyn addresses the recurring accusations that she abused her children during her time in Scientology:
Marilyn spends considerable time attacking the character of her peers:
Marilyn Honig’s livestream is a masterclass in narrative control through compartmentalization. By hosting the stream in a "members-only" format, she ensures that her defensive explanations—particularly regarding the "hot sauce" and spanking allegations—are met with nodding heads rather than scrutiny.
The "Haley Proxy" Strategy: Marilyn uses her daughter’s aggression as a way to maintain her own "pleasant" persona while still delivering vitriol to her enemies. By praising Haley’s "human tomato" insults, Marilyn participates in the "look-shaming" she often decries, yet avoids the direct blame by framing it as a daughter’s "protection" of her mother.
Minimization of Abuse: Marilyn’s defense against child abuse allegations relies heavily on normalization. By stating that her methods were "half the country" or "in the Bible," she attempts to absolve herself of personal accountability. The contrast she draws between her foster care trauma and her own parenting is a classic redirection tactic; by showing that something "worse" happened to her, she attempts to make her own actions appear benign by comparison.
The Fragility of the "SPTV" Community: The stream highlights the extreme toxicity and "mean girl" dynamics within the Scientology-critic community. Marilyn’s assessment of Nora as a "sellout" and Reese as "vapid" underscores a cycle of infighting where creators prioritize personal vendettas over their stated goal of exposing cult practices. Ultimately, Marilyn’s livestream reinforces her own echo chamber, ensuring that her version of the "truth" remains unchallenged by those who pay for the privilege of listening.
In an escalating development that surprised absolutely no one, a "Speed running" attempt by three teenage boys has landed them in custody facing charges of burglary and hate crime this afternoon at 3:00pm, the 11th of May 2026.
The attempt involved a crowbar to break into the building previously locked by staffers and the deactivation the building's electrical breakers, alleges Scientology staffer(s).
While Scientology is little known for its honesty in both love and war, their use of extensive video surveillance is well documented for these kinds of criminal allegations.
Most notable critic of the cult have publicly expressed concern in the flashmob trend of "speedrunning" given Scientology's very litigious nature and unfortunate classification as a place of worship in the United States, forewarning the act will eventually result in this very scenario.
Following Scientology's well known Ethics doctrine of "putting a head on a pike", it is likely to use its extensive paralegal resources to offer State prosecutors all evidentiary and argumentation necessaries for hate crimes both to deter the practice and claim martyrdom.
Scientology aims to establish victimhood for itself as much as it can. OSA PR uses these cases to milk propaganda to its inner members for the cult mythos of "the embattled few against the tribulations of oppression" and diffuse its legitimate criticism citing examples of religious discrimination it succeeded at "proving".
Speaking of surprising absolutely no one:
Following his return having served 20 days in county jail 7 days prior, on conviction of physically assaulting a Sea Org Member, Aaron Smith-Levin has spent the last 5 days jumping on the trend promoting--though not joining--the practice of speed running and deride activists and academics expressing concern for its dangers and legal risk.
The two days before that, were dedicated to convey his displeasure against the judge sentencing him to 20 days in jail (though it was the jury convicted him, not the judge, I'm a stickler for details), plastering her picture across social media exponing the conspiracy she is compromised by Scientology >!^(because she went to the same school as Pam Bondi whose campaign received donations from billionaire Trish Duggan and that is why he has been the subject of persecution and absolutely, certainly not because feewings are hard.)!<
In his video Leah Remini calls out Scientology Speed Runners Aaron once more jumps on her every public message to offer us stunning legal advice such as:
It should be noted that while lauding and encouraging the practice, which is by legal definition at least a misdemeanor, neither ASL, Jenna or William Gude have, or expressed intent to, participate in them.
The core of their argument remain that "closing down" places like the LA test center is an effective way to protect the public from Scientology, whereas both Aaron, Jenna and every ex-scn who know how the sausage is made are aware these kiosks are fronts with practically no result in proselytizing scientology and usually manned by the least possible staff. Think JW door knocking.
They are a necessary fixture for tax exemption, for image, to abide to unadulterable but obsolete LRH Policy. It makes Scientologists busy and experience friction with the "outside world".
One does not shut down the Mormon church by stomping one of their muffin stands. It has nothing to do with the system of abuse. It changes naught. The spectacle, self-adulation and proclaimed success make good television. That's about it.
Aaron, Jenna and Gude know that. That 16 year old kid, did not. There-in lies a moral quandary.
Aaron dropped a video at the time of this writing, The Ex-Scientologist Mind Virus, which will probably be recapped if this Council of Suppressives has the spoons today.
To their credit, it appears they were unaware of the incident at time of recording.
In a completely-not-AI-generated argument, Aaron posits that his brand of activism is delegitimized and devalued by the old guard such as Leah Remini (and people like myself, I suppose) still afflicted by the "mind virus", a remnant of scientology conditioning, which includes "saving mankind", preachiness and condescension. Oh my.
He claims there is also merit to his way, being a joker, to ridicule; and all many different types of protesting which presumably, the OG doesn't approve of.
I understand here that he speaks to his exclusion from most of the circles and academics in Scientology cult recovery. I assure you it's nothing to do with being a joker.
It was really his several recorded domestic violence with two different women, recorded sexpest behavior, several recorded drunken debacles, persistent shameless lying, inurement, cruelty, smear campaigns to those that hurt his wittle feewings or were just more competent than him, now conviction of assault... I'm surely missing a few, but neither here nor there at this point, right?
It takes someone like Aaron Smith-Levin to pathologize and find fault with empathy.
It's a selection bias, most ex-cult members just leave and live. You only see the activists that stuck around, and they're usually interested in people and in deconstructing and don't like to see people getting hurt for spectacle or doing illegal things, which objectively don't help except bulge ASL's or Jenna's or Gude's bank accounts and attract people into our tent that aren't really here for the right reasons.
"Right", in this context is not a point of moral rigidity. You can't abuse someone out of a cult like you can't beat someone back to sanity. We have to work with the same facts and current science. Unless that is not what one is trying to do:
Here’s my peeps tagging in.
May 3rd, 2026, Blown for Good
The Truth About Scientology’s “Alien Detector”
Claire and Mark Headley discuss this week Scientology's E-meter. They dissect the E-meter's definition from Scientology's dictionary, highlighting its religious artifact status and diagnostic claims. They reveal the FDA's involvement in requiring disclaimers due to Hubbard's claims of curing ailments. They delve into the E-meter's manufacturing process, including the use of child labor and the "all hands" system to meet production demands.
They detail the internal components, the outdated technology, and the "silver certification" process and touch on E-meter's use in auditing to handle body thetans (space cooties), and the controversy surrounding its price versus manufacturing cost. The conversation concludes with a look at newer E-meter models and their new technical aspects.
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May 3rd, 2026 - Scientologybusiness.com - Chris Shelton
Coercive Control Is Illegal… Except When Cults Do It
Chris Shelton writes how cults exploit a legal loophole, leaving victims with nowhere to turn as the law struggles to recognize coercive control outside personal relationships.
Despite decades of documented abuse in high-control groups, including financial exploitation and isolation, current laws primarily protect those in domestic settings.
This article explores why this critical blind spot exists, how critics misuse religious freedom arguments to shield harmful conduct, and the crucial need to expand legal recognition of coercive control. Discover how observable patterns of isolation, exploitation, and intimidation, regardless of context, demand consistent legal accountability to protect victims and uphold public trust.
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May 3rd, 2026 - Apostate Alex's Substack
Some further thoughts on the Scientology speedrun sensation
Alex Barnes-Ross expresses in his article further concerns on the subject of the "Scientology Speedrun" TikTok trend, warning it could jeopardize the UK's protected right to protest and advocates for disciplined and credible advocacy to educate policymakers and achieve legislative change, rather than viral trends that create spectacle and play into Scientology's narrative.
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May 4th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Substack
Here's Scientology's version of what happened at the aborted Clearwater arbitration
Tony Ortega posts the entire declaration by Sea Org Official and paralegal Peter Mansell regarding Valeska Paris and Gawain and Laura Baxter's Scientology religious arbitration and the Church's assertions on the arbitration and the plaintiff's testimonies.
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May 5th, 2026, Apostate Alex
LEAK: Internal Scientology masterclass on how to attack critics on social media
Apostate Alex leaks the online training for Scientology digital propagandists for Stand League. Charlie demonstrates the setting up of new social media accounts (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, X) for Stand League, saving logos, using ChatGPT, and adding website links.
The core content strategy involves daily posting, sourced from existing YouTube videos. The speaker introduces Opus Clips, an AI tool that automatically edits YouTube videos into shorter, shareable clips with captions. These clips, along with AI-generated captions from ChatGPT, can then be uploaded to various social media platforms. Volunteers are asked to commit to posting at least five times a week.
This defines the way Scientology trains its cyborg accounts operators to relentlessly attack its victims online.
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May 6th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Substack
More proof Scientology is pressuring parents about its new 'Golden Age' for kids
Tony Ortega reports on Scientology focusing on recruiting children through new books and courses like the "Golden Age for a New Generation," evidenced by celebrity endorsements and staff enthusiasm with parents pressured and a large photoshoot planned to showcase these efforts.
Separately, a Facebook post highlights restrictions on Scientologists living independently in Clearwater, requiring approval to move off-base.
Additionally, a free "Tone Scale" app from Sterling Management is available, designed to educate on emotional tones and human interaction.
May 6th, 2026, Kallmekris
The Disturbing Cult Of Scientology
Kallmekris offered a very cookie-cutter documentary-styled summary of Scientology's popular controversies and tragedies, reaching more than 722,705 views at the time of this article:
It details the controversial history and practices of Scientology.
It outlines Hubbard's fabrications, early life, his transition from pulp fiction to Dianetics, the organization's shift to a religious structure for legal and financial benefits, its core beliefs, and the expensive "Bridge to Total Freedom."
It examines the E-meter, auditing practices, the "fair game" policy, and the Sea Organization's harsh conditions, also touching key figures like David Miscavige, celebrity involvement (Tom Cruise, John Travolta), and numerous allegations of abuse, financial exploitation, suppression of dissent, and unexplained deaths, particularly highlighting the case of Lisa McPherson.
The narrative concludes by discussing Scientology's legal battles, information control via the internet, and ongoing lawsuits alleging forced labor.
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May 7th, 2026, Mark Bunker
Sign the Petition, Save the City!
Mark Bunker, offers his candidacy once more for Clearwater City Council and is seeking signatures to get on the ballot. He will be at Market Marie in downtown Clearwater on Cleveland Street this Saturday, May 9th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for signature gathering.
He also offers spare petition cards for those who wish to help collect signatures. For those unable to attend, Bunker can be contacted on his personal email address provided in the video to arrange for petition cards to be dropped off.
He emphasizes the urgency as time is running out. Bunker highlights (with words wise and a face of beard) the importance of his return to the Clearwater Council due to significant upcoming developments, such as the L Ron Hubbard Hall and Park, about which he expresses concern regarding safety. He urges voters to support him for Seat 5 on the Clearwater City Council to ensure a better future.
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May 7th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Substack
As RFK Jr. targets antidepressants, here's Scientology's mental health alternative
Tony Ortega examines the alleged influence of wealthy Scientologists and their front groups on the current White House administration's approach to mental health, particularly concerning the reduction of antidepressant prescriptions. It highlights the long-standing goal of Scientology's front group, Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), to eradicate psychiatry.
He details how Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s past involvement with Scientologist attorneys and his recent announcement to scale back antidepressant prescribing are seen as aligning with Scientology's objectives.
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May 7th, 2026 Scientology Peeling the Onion
Mary Sue Hubbard Oversaw a Criminal Infiltration of the US Government by Scientology
Janice Gillan Grady and Mark Fisher offer this second part of a series on Mary Sue Hubbard, wife of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. The episode continues with personal stories from co-host detailing Mary Sue's life up until her death in 2002, with a focus on Operation Snow White, her conviction, and her life after prison.
They highlight stories on Mary Sue's efforts to learn French in Tangier, Morocco, and her role in fostering relationships, such as that of her steward Andre Tabio and Mary Chambers. It recounts some humorous incidents and her involvement in her daughters' weddings, Diana's and Annie's, and her active participation and appreciation for photography.
They touch on MS' personality, her interest in magic with her youngest son Arthur, and her dedication to providing her children with appropriate attire for significant events, like Diana's "coming out party" in Los Angeles. Her continued leadership of the Guardian's Office is emphasized, even during challenging times like the rock festival incident in Madeira. The segment also details the loss of Mary Sue's car during the Madeira incident.
The conversation delves into family dynamics, including structured family dinners and interactions with the Hubbard children. Mary Sue is portrayed as a protective mother in contrast to Hubbard's approach, as seen in the incident with Quinton and the RPF. The move ashore from the ship is explained due to Mary Sue's desire for a home and Hubbard's health concerns. The establishment of Scientology's presence in Clearwater, Florida, is described, including the acquisition of the Fort Harrison and the Clearwater Bank building.
They also details Mary Sue's activities during Hubbard's seclusion and legal troubles, her role in managing operations, and their communication through letters, which were often edited to shield Hubbard from her legal case. Her eventual move to Los Angeles and life in a house called "Rifle" are mentioned, followed by the FBI raid and her subsequent role in managing affairs while Hubbard was in hiding.
The narrative then focuses on Mary Sue's conviction for her role in Operation Snow White, a large-scale infiltration of U.S. government agencies aimed at altering or removing negative Scientology records. Despite facing charges, she maintained loyalty to Hubbard. Her prison sentence and release are discussed, along with her life in Los Felis, California, under surveillance.
They conclude on her passing, her will, and the stipulation regarding the sale of her house, emphasizing her devotion to her family and Scientology.
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May 8th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Substack
Plaintiffs ask for evidentiary hearing on Scientology arbitration mess, but judge says no
Tony Ortega reports on Valeska Paris and the Baxters challenging the church's "religious arbitration" process due to the lack of transcripts and official records. They requested an evidentiary hearing to determine the truth about their 15-day arbitration, which they abandoned as a "legal farce." However, Tampa federal Judge Thomas Barber denied this request, stating he would seek supplemental reports if needed. The plaintiffs argue this arbitration, like others in Scientology's history, was unprofessional, intimidating, and time-wasting, with no attorneys present and no transcripts taken. Scientology maintains the proceedings were professional and lengthy due to extensive allegations. The plaintiffs aim for a higher court appeal, and while an evidentiary hearing was denied, Judge Barber might compel Scientology to conclude the arbitration, potentially enabling an appeal.
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May 8th, 2026 The Aftermath Foundation
What is #Scientology? AMA (Short)
The Aftermath Foundation offers an AMA in response to the wave of questions and online interest generated from the speedrun movement and will offer an upcoming video to answer them.
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May 8th, 2026 Tory Magoo
#Scientology Fri Protest with Tory Magoo, Drew & Peter
This video captures an anti-Scientology protest featuring Tory Christman, a prominent ex-Scientology critic. Christman engages in relaxed, candid conversations with fellow protesters and passersby while seated, also interacting with her live online audience in her habitually calm and positive approach to protesting. The discussion touches upon various aspects of Scientology, including security measures, building structures, and past events, while also sharing personal updates and expressions of support for those facing difficulties. The stream highlights the ongoing efforts of former Scientologists and their allies to raise awareness and critique the organization's practices.
May 9th, 2026 Jackson Field
The Scientology Speedrun Situation
Jackson reports on the recent social media trend "speedrunning," which involves individuals breaking into Scientology buildings and run through it.
While initially perceived as harmless trolling against an organization widely criticized for alleged scams, Jackson expresses concern. Drawing parallels to a former Scientologist's views, they argue that these raids, rather than undermining Scientology, may inadvertently reinforce the organization's "us vs. them" mentality, solidifying followers' beliefs that the outside world is hostile.
He also delves into the origins and practices of Scientology, describing it as a self-help organization layered with religious ideology designed to extract money. It details the recruitment process through personality tests, the use of "auditing" with an "E-meter" (identified as a repurposed ohmmeter) for pseudo-therapeutic counseling, and the controversial "Sea Org." The narrative highlights L. Ron Hubbard's founding of Scientology, driven by a desire to avoid taxes, and the subsequent legal battles with the IRS. A key revelation is the alien-centric belief system involving "thetans," which is only disclosed after significant financial investment.
Jackson concludes by questioning the effectiveness of this activist trend, suggesting it might be both harmful and beneficial, and recommends the documentary "Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief" for further insight.
May 9th, 2026 - Scientologybusiness.com - Alexander Barnes-Ross
LEAK: Scientology’s rules on how to handle negative comments on social media
Alexander Barnes-Ross reports on Scientology's internal documents revealing a coordinated social media strategy aimed at promoting the church and countering negative press with staffers instructed to create engaging content, clip existing material into short-form videos for platforms like TikTok, and flood social media with positive information.
A key directive is to "never engage" with criticism, termed "Black PR," instead blocking users or deleting comments. Volunteers are also trained to use "dead agenting" to discredit critics. This strategy, piloted in London, has reportedly achieved significant views and increased book sales, with an annual report highlighting efforts to combat ex-member testimonials online.
May 9th, 2026 - Tony Ortega's Substack
Dianetics at 76: Scientology’s bible, endorsing child abuse since 1950 (and now with a song!)
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May 9th, 2026, Jon Atack, family & friends
Scientology's Fundamentals of Thought w/ Chris Shelton, MSc - part two
Part deux of "Speaking of Cults" podcast featuring Chris Shelton and John Atack discussing L. Ron Hubbard Fundamentals of Thought. They delve into Hubbard's personal motivations, his obsession with "having things" and potential narcissism, suggesting it stemmed from an inner void. The conversation highlights how Hubbard's teachings, including the "be-do-have" concept, are presented as a corrupted version of existential philosophy, driven by his material desires.
Chris and Jon analyze Scientology's core tenets, criticizing its plagiarized origins and Hubbard's hypocrisy regarding drug use and his own lifestyle. They touch upon the concept of "valences", comparing it to dissociative identity disorder and noting its use in some auditing techniques. The discussion also explores the problematic nature of Hubbard's cosmology, its logical inconsistencies, and his deeply ingrained racism, citing examples like his views on South Africans and Asian civilizations.
The conversation focuses on topics of the Fundamentals of Thought, including the "eight dynamics" and the "ARC triangle," which are critiqued as ineffective tools and a foundation of "quicksand." The speakers emphasize that Hubbard's ideas often lack originality, being derived from other philosophies and presented with a "sciency" veneer. They conclude by stressing that the core issue isn't religious belief itself, but the arrogance, conceit, and desire to dominate that often accompany such beliefs, particularly in cult leaders like Hubbard.
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May 9th, 2026, Chris Shelton
Speaking of Cults...The Scientology Experience with Natalia Hirsch (Part 2)
Part two of an interview with Natalyia Hirsch, discussing her experiences with Scientology's front group, WISE (World Institute of Scientology Enterprises).
Hirsch details how WISE infiltrates businesses, offering "solutions" to entrepreneurs. She recounts her time as a supervisor at a WISE college in Ecuador, where participants, often non-Scientologists, underwent training based on L. Ron Hubbard's materials, including sales techniques and communication drills. The conversation highlights how WISE, while presented as secular, serves as a recruitment pipeline for Scientology, particularly targeting wealthy individuals. The episode also touches upon the financial struggles of many Scientologists and the organization's focus on "whales" for revenue. Hirsch shares her personal journey through Scientology, including her difficult experiences at Flag in Clearwater, Florida, and the psychological impact of the organization's control and abusive practices.
Using the OT42 Summaries capabilities, attached is an AI recap of Aaron’s version of Scientology Dead Agent Policy. Dead Agenting is a Scientology practice where they attempt to make a person they don’t like look like there is adequate reason for everyone to dislike that person. The way this is done is to provide anyone who will listen a dead agent pack. This is a compilation of documents designed to defame or ruin the reputation of an opponent. Used to discredit someone who has spoken out against Scientology, or in this case the almighty Aaron Smith-Levin. Aaron has used this tactic against former friends on his channel since its inception. If you dare mention something Aaron doesn’t like, he will save it as ammunition against you. He will also fabricate information out of thin air, just like Scientology does.
Bear in mind that the person using this tactic claims to be the president of an alleged foundation that is meant to help people leave Scientology. He has also been out over two decades, yet still uses Scientology practices when they suit his agenda while purporting to protest against them.
My responses to some of his most outrageous claims will be in [brackets and italicized] to make them stand out.
Video Summary
1. Introduction and Allegations against Judge Hessinger
Aaron Smith-Levin begins the video by attacking Judge Kathleen Hessinger, who presided over his battery trial. He uses inflammatory language, calling her a "tyrannical, lunatic, psychotic judge" and the "terror of Pinellas County." He claims the purpose of the video is to expose her "unbelievable bias" and investigate her alleged connections to the Church of Scientology.
2. The Pam Bondi Connection
Aaron argues that Hessinger’s primary link to Scientology is through her long-standing friendship with former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. He highlights the following:
Law School Friendship: Hessinger and Bondi were classmates in law school.
[Hessinger is 61 years old. That’s a huge stretch. And even if they are friends, that doesn’t mean she sees her daily, if at all. This is similar to Aaron claiming Morgan Mee is wet behind the ears because he’s too lazy to research her entire history in Law School, etc.]
The 2006 "Dog Case": Aaron reads a Tampa Bay Times article from 2006 regarding a lawsuit over a dog adopted by Bondi after Hurricane Katrina. Hessinger presided over the case. According to the report, Hessinger offered to recuse herself due to her friendship with Bondi, but when the opposing counsel requested she actually do so, she refused. Aaron uses this to argue that Hessinger has a history of unethical refusals to recuse herself.
[Recuse and disqualify are not the same. And if a 20 year old possible case is the best Aaron has, he’s got nothing. The Motion to Disqualify was filed by Aaron’s attorney after he lost the battery case against the second victim. The Motion goes into everything Aaron’s attorney claims the judge did wrong in Aaron’s first battery case. Note: Aaron won that case. The attorney making those arguments was not present when she made those statements, he came into the case very late in the game after Aaron begged his first attorney not to withdraw. He did not witness any of Aaron’s courtroom antics until the trial in the first case.]
Scientology’s Political Influence: Aaron alleges that Pam Bondi and her successor, James Uthmeyer, have been "financially influenced" by Trish Duggan (a wealthy Scientologist). He claims Duggan donated $1.8 million to political action committees to buy favors for the Church.
[And has Duggan ever met the Judge?]
3. Comparison of Sentences
Aaron expresses deep resentment over his legal outcome. He contrasts his sentence—43 days in jail for what he describes as a "mild, innocent, unintentional shove"—with the case of Scientologist David Gentile. He claims Gentile, convicted in a billion-dollar Ponzi scheme, received a presidential pardon after serving only 12 days of a seven-year sentence due to Trish Duggan’s influence. Aaron uses this comparison to suggest that the justice system in Pinellas County is rigged in favor of Scientology.
[Aaron was sentenced to thirty days for the second case, not 43. He served 19 days 11 hours. He was in jail from 7:06 PM April 14, 2026, and was released to probation at 6:16 AM on the 4th of May. During that time his followers made sure his commissary and gift packages were well stocked. Aaron walked out of jail with $585 in his pocket. He was $20 in the hole when admitted. It was a profitable 19 1/2 days. It is illegal to gift commissary to others. It can only be used for fines. Aaron hasn’t paid a penny of his fines yet. He had 10 months from April 14. Tick tock.]
4. Accusations of Judicial Bias in the Courtroom
Aaron recounts specific moments from his trial to illustrate Hessinger’s alleged bias:
"Feeling Sorry" for Scientology: He claims the judge stated she "felt sorry" for the Scientologists after viewing footage of Aaron protesting at their Public Information Center.
[I feel sorry for the people Aaron accosts in Scientology. Instead of helping them escape as he alleges he’s doing, he is reinforcing the idea that there are scary people on the outside.]
The Battery Video: Aaron replays the footage of the incident that led to his conviction. He maintains that he was the victim of battery (having his foot slammed in a door) and that his actions were a defensive reaction, despite the jury finding him guilty of battery.
[Aarons “ow you hurt my foot wouldn’t earn him a callback on an audition as the door was slowly closing. However his hard shove making his victim’s head bounce was very real.]
Reputation among Peers: Aaron claims "word on the street" is that Hessinger was recently moved out of her division due to complaints from defense attorneys regarding "legal malpractice" and her tendency to impose mandatory 30-day jail sentences on DUI cases regardless of the facts.
[“Word on the street” means he has no proof. Another Scientology tactic. His judge hasn’t changed division, that’s what I know, his alleged word on the street comes perilously close to overstepping first amendment boundaries.]
5. Call to Action and First Amendment Defense
The host concludes by calling for a protest outside the Pinellas County Criminal Justice Center and vows to campaign against Hessinger’s re-election. He addresses viewer concerns about his safety, stating that while he is on probation, he has the First Amendment right to criticize a government official and call her "unethical" or "psychotic" without it being a criminal violation.
Key Arguments
Guilt by Association: Because Judge Hessinger is friends with Pam Bondi, and Bondi has allegedly accepted donations from Scientologists, Aaron argues that the judge is a "Scientology ally" by extension.
[I’m smart enough to even figure out that a family member can be different than others. It’s a shame Aaron takes a possible decades old law school acquaintance and turns it into a connection.]
Precedent of Bias: The 2006 dog case is presented as "proof" that the judge is incapable of impartiality and routinely ignores requests for recusal to protect her friends.
[Just because Aaron is two decades out of Scientology and has not made an effort to even find a way to move on, he believes that a 20 year old case (which may not even be real) is a smoking gun.]
Victimization: Aaron argues that his 43-day jail stay was a "tyrannical" overreach for an "unintentional" act, especially when compared to the treatment of wealthy Scientologists.
*[*19 1/2 days. Yes Aaron has served more jail time, but only self-inflicted jail time because he violated his bond in the first case. Battery #1 was on a different person than battery #2 and the second sentence was for battery #2.]
Incompetence: He argues that Hessinger is a "danger to society" who is being moved between court divisions because she is widely disliked by the legal community.
[What movement? She’s still there.]
Critical Conclusions
The video is a textbook example of DARVO (Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender). Despite a jury of his peers finding him guilty of battery and a judge sentencing him according to the law, Aaron refuses to acknowledge his own agency in the criminal act.
1. Lack of Substantive Evidence:
The "ties to Scientology" promised in the title are remarkably tenuous. Aaron relies on a 20-year-old law school friendship and a dispute over a dog to bridge the gap to a global conspiracy. He provides no evidence that Scientology ever contacted Hessinger or that she received any benefit from them.
2. Manipulation of the Audience:
Aaron uses highly emotive and dehumanizing language to describe the judge, likely to galvanize his "SPTV" community into a state of outrage. By framing himself as a "whistleblower" or "advocate" rather than a convicted offender, he maintains his status within his niche audience while avoiding the humility required for rehabilitation.
3. Weaponizing the First Amendment:
While Aaron is correct that he has the right to criticize the judiciary, he uses this right to deflect from the facts of his case. By focusing on the judge's personality and past friendships, he distracts his viewers from the evidence that led a jury to return a guilty verdict.
4. Deflection of Responsibility:
Throughout the video, Aaron minimizes his crime as an "innocent shove." His refusal to accept the jury's verdict suggests a deep-seated inability to accept accountability. Instead of self-reflection, he chooses to label the entire legal system of Pinellas County as "corrupt" to protect his self-image as a perpetual victim of the Church of Scientology.
[It is a shame that Aaron continues to find ways to make this all about him. He is not even an adequate voice in the anti Scientology movement. He is living proof that scientology causes serious harm to people and unless a person makes a concerted effort on their part, they will always use Scientology as an excuse to misbehave rather than become a productive member of society. He is a poster child for how not to protest Scientology.]
This is a detailed summary of the Speaking of Cults podcast episode from May 8, 2026, featuring host Chris Shelton and guest Natalia Hirsch. This second part of their interview focuses on the mechanics of the WISE organization, the grueling reality of being a "Golden Age of Tech" trainee at Flag, and the heartbreaking consequences of living within the Scientology "ecosystem" in Clearwater, Florida.
The conversation begins with Natalia’s experience working for WISE (World Institute of Scientology Enterprises) in Ecuador.
In late 1994, Natalia and her then-husband moved to Clearwater, Florida, as part of a massive group of 700 international trainees for the "Golden Age of Tech."
Natalia struggled with her auditing training. In Scientology, if the "tech" doesn't work, the fault is always placed on the individual.
Natalia describes the "prison without walls" that is the Scientology community in Clearwater.
Natalia Hirsch’s testimony provides a chilling look at the socio-economic trap of Scientology. While much of the public focus on Scientology involves its celebrity members or sci-fi beliefs, this interview highlights the crushing poverty and systemic neglect of its rank-and-file members.
A particularly striking conclusion is the inhumanity of the "Scientology Ecosystem." By forcing members to work, live, and socialize exclusively within the group, Scientology creates a functional prison. The most heartbreaking aspect is the institutionalized child neglect described in the Cadet Org; that a "religion" would label a five-year-old’s crying for his family as an "ethics issue" rather than a cry for help is a damning indictment of the organization's moral core.
Furthermore, Chris Shelton’s historical context regarding WISE reveals the organization's parasitic nature. It was born not out of a desire to help the business world, but as a "police effort" to stop the church from losing its own staff to private businesses. Overall, the video paints a picture of an organization that is expertly designed to extract wealth from the rich while simultaneously stripping the poor of their finances, health, and family bonds.
