Former NXIVM Member Allison Mack Breaks Silence with New podcast Detailing Cult’s Abuse
Allison Mack, a key figure in teh NXIVM sex cult led by Keith Raniere, is publicly detailing her involvement for the first time through a new podcast, “Allison After NXIVM.” The podcast offers a rare, intimate account of her experiences within the organization, her remorse for her actions, and her life following imprisonment.
the podcast arrives years after investigative reporting first exposed NXIVM’s abuses. in October 2017, The New York Times published an exposé, “Inside a Secretive Group Where Women Are Branded,” featuring testimony from NXIVM whistleblower Sarah Edmondson, detailing her experiences in the group’s inner circle, DOS. this reporting proved pivotal in turning public opinion against Raniere and ultimately led to his arrest in Mexico in 2018, alongside Mack.
HBO’s docuseries “The Vow,” which premiered in August 2020 and continued with a second season in 2022, further popularized the cult’s story, portraying Mack as a shadowy figure often present in the background, with Raniere controlling all filming.Raniere was convicted in 2019 and is currently serving a 120-year sentence for sex trafficking, racketeering, fraud, and other crimes.
“Allison After NXIVM” begins with Mack recounting her sentencing day in June 2021, expressing deep regret for the pain she caused her family. “Oh, my God, my poor brother behind me, having to hear this about his sister,” she said through tears.”My poor mom! I’m so sorry, you guys.I can take it, but like fuck, you guys, I’m so sorry.I don’t see myself as innocent, and they were.”
The podcast follows Mack’s present life, where she is married and pursuing a master’s degree in social work. Despite numerous previous offers to share her story, Mack had consistently declined until now, choosing a podcast format because she is “no longer agreeable in front of cameras like she used to be,” according to podcast creator and journalist Miriam Robehmed.
“Allison has not spoken publicly since her incarceration,” Robehmed stated. “she’s had lots of offers, but always said no – until now.”
The podcast also features the first-ever interview with Lauren Salzman, daughter of Nancy Salzman, NXIVM’s co-founder. salzman pleaded guilty and testified against Raniere at his trial, and was sentenced in 2021 to time served and five years of probation.