Get ready for an engaging conversation as I sit down with my dear friend, Mark Vicente. Many of you might recognise him as the whistle-blower for the cult NXIVM, but there's so much more to him than that. Mark is not just a public figure; he's an author, a speaker, and the cinematographer behind the iconic film Sarafina! Together, we explore the intense demands placed upon us by social media, our battles with how the public sees us, and being honest in our self-expression. Mark shares with us his experience of having a cult-like following, and we examine how historical patterns of coercion and censorship are repeating in our modern society. If you're ready to explore the nuances of authenticity, the role of vulnerability in connection, and the importance of critical thinking in personal growth, tune in to this episode. Connect with Mark: Mark Vicente is an author, speaker, and filmmaker who played a key role in the creation of the sleeper hit "What The Bleep Do We Know?!” Born in Johannesburg - South Africa in 1965, he discovered his passion for cinematography early and made his mark as a Director of Photography in Hollywood with films like “SARAFINA” and “FATHERHOOD.” Mark transitioned to directing with a focus on challenging and thought-provoking themes. His work includes “Encender el Corazon,” a film addressing Mexico's kidnapping crisis. Despite it touching many people deeply, he withdrew the film to expose the criminal activities of the NXIVM cult, detailed in the HBO series “THE VOW.” Today he continues to explore human stories through film, with the goal of shining a light on both the beauty and complexity of the human condition. You can follow Mark Vicente on: Instagram: @markvicente Twitter: https://twitter.com/markvicente Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente Website: https://www.markvicente.com "WTF is on my Mind?!" Podcast available on all podcast platforms. Also on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7 His Next Film (2024 Release) www.empathynotincluded.com Course with Richard Grannon DECODING CULTS & NARCISSISTS https://www.richardgrannon.com/narcissistic-cults-decoded-course Don't forget to pre-order my book, The Third Perspective: Brave Expression in The Age of Intolerance If you found this valuable - be sure to follow, RATE, subscribe, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and share this podcast with your pals, family, and community - let's not withhold transformation from each other.⁣⁣⁣⁣ You can also connect with me directly over on Instagram, I'd love to continue the conversation with you - @africabrooke or you can email me at [email protected] with the subject line 'Beyond the Self'. I can't wait to hear from you!⁣⁣⁣⁣ PLEASE NOTE: I do not give advice in DM's, emails, or comments, but I'd love to hear your feedback and know what your lightbulb moments or breakthroughs were. It also lights me up when you tag me in the screenshots of you listening, do continue!