Mike Rowe OBLITERATES Scientology with Journalist Tony Ortega | The Way I Heard It

In this clip from "The Way I Heard It" podcast: Substack journalist Tony Ortega has been covering Scientology for decades, and he joins Mike to discuss what he's learned.
#mikerowe #thewayiheardit #tonyortega #scientology
Listen to the ENTIRE episode of "The Way I Heard It" #327 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: www.youtube.com/@therealmiker...
FOLLOW MIKE ROWE:
twttr.com/mikeroweworks
TheRealMikeRowe
instagr.am/mikerowe/

[@allwaizeright9705]

My DAD who had a Masters Degree in English and a Masters Degree in Psychology - He read DIANETICS and he basically came to the conclusion that it was all WORD SALAD and CRAP..

[@tresfingeros]

Your dad gave it to much credit 😂😂

[@bethotoole6569]

😂😂😂😂

[@bigk5837]

Dianetics is an insult to crap

[@ArganRyan]

your dad must feel similarly about Jordan Peterson

[@PMentor1]

Many smart people have joined. Look at Mensa and then to MAGA it’s the same ratio but more of the same. Scary stuff.

[@aaronl6333]

They need to take their tax-exempt away from them again it's ridiculous

[@melaniereisner8375]

Along with BLM and lots of non-profits and foundations.

[@jaklipa]

How many scientologists are infiltrated into our local, state, and federal government institutions including law enforcement and the legislature...?

[@The5for1]

All churches should be taxed as a business because, historically and statistically speaking, your god doesn't fix roads but he does hide predators.

[@maitreyas.4902]

Why stop there? Send in the Swat or ATF.

[@christinaheagy4602]

The IRS tried that, Scientology bullied the agents. I think they may have infiltrated the IRS too.

[@flyer7773]

I love it when the cults are being exposed!!!

[@snatchsnatcher9084]

Now on to abrahamic cults

[@NelsonMontana1234]

As a young man with a curious mind I got into Scientology, mainly because Chick Corea (who was a hero of mine) swore by it. There are a few things that are beneficial from a philosophical/ psychological perspective , but it didn't take long for this 19 year old to figure out it was a cult, and I walked away from it.

[@pjt3887]

Congratulations 🎉

[@wesleywashington1251]

Chick Corea?! I'm ashamed of him for supporting that nonsense. He's such a talented musician.

[@ArthurvanH0udt]

But how much $$ did you spend?

[@NelsonMontana1234]

@@ArthurvanH0udt It was 40 years ago, I have no recollection of what the cost was back then. Give them a call if you want the current rate.

[@EbonAvatar]

I remember taking their quiz when I was 15, and I definitely went into it with an open mind. My results came back and (predictably) said I was horribly depressed, a nervous wreck, and probably a few short steps from suicide. The Church tried to get in touch with me about the results but I never followed up with them about it. Even as an open-minded 15 year old something about the test felt fishy and convinced me not to pursue it any further. Thank god for that, as I could have gotten sucked in for sure.

[@comfortouch]

In the early 1980's the 'church' tried to recruit me as a 16y/o. Thankfully a teacher caught onto what they were doing, not just with me, but other students as a group, and put a quash on it. I look back on that thinking how naive I was, and easily influenced, and how they were targeting that age bracket because of it. We were lucky to have an alert teacher on our side.

[@alanploetz7100]

For me, it was age 18 and I was seeking, but even at that stage it seemed too good to be true.

[@saintmalaclypse3217]

That's where Scientology is at a disadvantage - they have to actively recruit from outside the cult. Once they've been around long enough, they can rely on adults indoctrinating their own children, just like Christians, Muslims, Jews, etc. do all the time. That's the biggest difference between a cult and a religion: how many people you've sucked in. Right now, Scientologists are just considered "bullies" because they manipulate the legal system to get their way. Just wait until they are powerful enough to start their own public witch hunts, crusades, and can wipe out or subjugate entire native populations in every country they visit. Imagine how scary it would be if the guy who ran our country and had his finger on the button also believed in fairy tales, miracles, gods, aliens, and magic. Yeah, just imagine...luckily we only have Christians running our country, and they don't believe in anything crazy like talking snakes, flying chariots, global floods, or blood sacrifices. 🙄

[@dswysong7353]

Scholastic books 📚

[@Stacy-]

@comfort touch - I wouldn't consider you naive. Don't be so hard on yourself. You were just a kid looking for something & they preyed on you. They shouldn't be allowed to get away with any of the things they do to their followers or people that want to leave of their own free will. The fact that the government, the law, the courts, and the IRS let them get away with any of it is unbelievable. They are a cult & should be treated as such. Just because they have money doesn't mean they are above the law, but that's exactly how they are treated.

[@travisdean8794]

Mike Rowe doin one of the things he does best, bringing the truth out front and center. Ya know….somebody’s got to do it and sometimes it’s a dirty job.

[@RhYn0n]

Not all heroes wear capes.

[@keithmiller2714]

Well said.

[@borkborknomnom3154]

I see what you did there......and I like it

[@-the-1-86]

I worry for his health JFK was well and great at that too

[@PinkPosey]

I wish Mike Rowe knew that his support of Grant Cardone is only HELPING the cult of Scientology as he’s an OT8 mega donor🤦🏼‍♀️😮

[@michaelmcgourty9535]

My dad was part of the IRS audit team, they tried to bribe him... Pathetic. Years later he found out they also went through his briefcase from a fellow agent who was a member of the church at the time.

[@corneliusantonius3108]

"Scientology Is Always Allways Worse Than You Think" Greetings from the Netherlands from a 2008 protest involved kind off cat.

[@ji.ol.1490]

😮

[@gardensofthegods]

Do you know if he reported them to his higher-ups and that they tried to bribe him ? ... if you are I did something like that we'd be in a lot of trouble . Regrettably it sounds like somebody else there took their bribe .

[@michaelmcgourty9535]

@@gardensofthegods He did report the incident to his supervisor

[@WingItWithEthan]

I was invited to Scientology, but when the guy who invited me couldn’t articulate answers to the questions I had, I got a feeling it’s more like a cult.

[@katie7748]

Not like...IS.

[@aberamagold7509]

Good call

[@bethotoole6569]

All I had to do is read Dianetics. Worst POS I've ever forced myself to read.😂😂😂😂

[@Aldarion65]

@@bethotoole6569 the worst part about it is the very few decent comments in the whole book are 100% plagiarized by a sci-fi writer

[@bun04y]

A guy that I went to high school with and just happened to be working at the same job was in a hurry to leave work one day because he had to get to the scientology (I forget the actual name he had for it) place so that he could go study (read L.Ron's books). I looked at him with shock and said "You KNOW that's the church of the poisoned mind, RIGHT?" He didn't say anything back. I don't know what ever became of him. I hope that he got out and is doing well.

[@Mersipher]

Mike Rowe is a bad ass human. Kind, humble, articulate and rational. A true national treasure. Love to meet and buy him a beer some day. He's one of the few humans I base being a good person on.

[@ckrardin]

I absolutely agree with you, his erudition is unequaled in today’s social media madness!

[@Mersipher]

@ckfeather what a fantastic name. Erudition. And might I add you're vocabulary is splendid good sir.

[@imacmill]

Isn't he a Trump supporter? * Confirmed: this guy thinks the election was stolen. Someone in another post said he's a truth-teller, so Mike: put up or STFU! Do a video to present your evidence.

[@michael-4k4000]

Anyone against the Church of Scientology is against TRUTH

[@matthewsnyder1856]

I saw him a few years ago waiting for a table for dinner with his parents. I just nodded and kept walking out of respect, but I do wish i if would have at least given him a handshake.

[@pablorages1241]

I don't think it's too hard to point out how INSANE Scientology is !

[@jumperstartful]

But, Tom Cruise is one. He can't be wrong can he? So it must be legit! Right??

[@MarkGilliam-er7rs]

Christians, Muslims, Mormons, etc. dabble in insanity also so good luck with that...

[@MelloThatDude]

Can never get enough of Mike Rowe. Always working and always shining light on hard working Americans ! He's a true American!!

[@harmgregory4560]

Doubtful. 🪳🪳🪳

[@victorianlover3328]

I can't figure out why he never married and had any kids. It's now the end of his line.

[@aeugenegray]

maybe he has a weird looking weiner@@victorianlover3328

[@richardspillers6282]

Wake up. He lies.

[@aeugenegray]

@@richardspillers6282 Mike seems like a pretty straight up dude

[@CissyBrazil]

Fantastic discussion! I was involved with Scientology many years ago. It was for a very short time, because I found that they were more interested in me paying them a lot of money to continue. I broke off from them, and for about the next four years or five years, they harassed me to come back. Finally, I said I was going to call the police. I never heard from them again. What a relief. Lol

[@zambonidriver42]

You don't get rich writing science fiction. If you want to get rich, you start a religion. L. Ron Hubbard

[@b2617]

Rich and powerful. Lots of gullible people out there

[@hed2410]

Or, as L Ron did- start a religion based totally on fiction.

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

​@@hed2410In my opinion they all are.

[@BaronFeydRautha]

Hubbard didn't say that, that was told to Hubbard.

[@Jacqueline_Thijsen]

​@BaronFeydRautha a quick Google search shows he was reported to have said exactly this and variations on it by several different people.

[@valettehamilton2597]

It's crazy to think that the IRS is afraid of anything...more likely the top IRS brass have been paid off by Scientology and continue to be paid off through time unending.

[@gardensofthegods]

Further up in one of the comments a girl says her dad was an IRS auditor and that they tried to bribe him . She said he also found out that one of his co workers actually was a Scientologist and had gone through his briefcase . I don't remember where that comment was but it wasn't too far about this thread

[@hankclingingsmith8707]

For sure

[@robertsloane1268]

Irs is paid off

[@clintprice2123]

Mike Rowe is an amazing man! He discusses things without pushing any point.

[@preshisify]

☕🇺🇸

[@jeffhildreth9244]

He does push a point, there is BS and there is fact.

[@Sakurafire1]

Did you watch the same thing the rest of us watched? lol

[@Aldarion65]

@@Sakurafire1 if you couldnt get his point that Scientology is a criminal organizations posing as a church and destroying peoples lives then it is you that is have a problem with what the rest of us watched.

[@preshisify]

🤣

[@chaplainmattsanders4884]

Good interview. Important to continue to expose Scientology for the falsehood it is.

[@Eyes0penNoFear]

Decades ago, my uncle attended a scientology business training and they disguised it so he didn't know it was scientology until the last day. He said they harassed him for money for almost 15 years before finally leaving him alone.

[@dswysong7353]

This is done in school curriculum as well ... Scholastic books 📚 teaches teachers.

[@christinaheagy4602]

😮

[@TheSurebert]

Much like Amway. They give names to small groups within the larger group; like Team of Destiny. Throughout all the training sessions they keep telling you that you can become rich using their knowledge. Every week they have new books for you to buy, CD’s to purchase and they push you to come to next week’s meeting as if that will ensure you will no longer have to work at a job. Of course it’s all BS but they make loads of money from the cost of the meetings and the merch they sell.

[@ckrardin]

CAN saved my life as a Second Generation Cult member. Leaving the group I was in was so difficult and CAN, especially Cynthia Kisser were exceedingly helpful in my recovery from that horrible experience. Scientology also planted an actress, Laura Terrapin (her character name) who cozied up to CAN and even volunteered but in fact was a Trojan Horse for Scientology and if AKA Laura is still out there she should be ashamed of her actions!

[@ashenmoonclash]

Beyond happy you got out of a Cult safe and sound!

[@shalakabooyaka1480]

Congratulations getting out of that bullshit!

[@dickfitswell3437]

"I’ve Been Involved In A Number Of Cults, Both As A Leader And A Follower. You Have More Fun As A Follower. But You Make More Money As A Leader." ~Creed Bratton The Office

[@michael-4k4000]

And what is CAN praytell?

[@googlyeyedcat]

It's astounding how many celebrities are involved with Scientology, you would think they are smarter than that.

[@selah4719]

SPTV is the best place to find out about Scientology, " Blown for Good, Mike Rinder , Growing up in Scientology , Kelly Copter , Apostate Alex, Amy Scobee ," these people are ex scientologist and know the inside stories . They lived it ,not just reporting on it .

[@kk-kb9jr]

YES!!

[@austindarrenor]

What these people will NEVER mention is material in Scientology that's been there since the 1950's. That is that the person that continues to commit injurious acts against others won't get any gain from Scientology (or any other subject either). These people you list are just people that failed to clean up their acts and now "it's all Scientology's fault", lol.

[@reddog-ex4dx]

Whenever I hear the word Scientology I'm reminded of a poor guy that got sucked into it years ago and took years to get out of. There are two kinds of people that check out Scientology. Those who are of sound mind and those who are hurting. Scientology prays on the later. They suck them in and drain their bank accounts telling them they need to get more and more books to get happiness. When one wants to get out they call you in the middle of the night and ask for more money or just to annoy you. It's really pathetic that an organization has to go to such outrageous measures. Mike, don't be surprised if you get a visit from two of them.

[@bun04y]

Or a law suit.

[@BaronFeydRautha]

Sounds like a typical christian mega church to me

[@jeffreyoishi8394]

Dig two holes

[@stephenhunter70]

@@BaronFeydRautha As an Aussie the one that comes to mind when you say that isn't your typical mega church!

[@BaronFeydRautha]

@@stephenhunter70 You mean the folks who... like to annoy everyone else with their singing four times a day and have a nasty habit of their cars exploding in public places? I think we're on the same page bruddah. LOL

[@bettyrue5780]

Mike, as a person that has been a fan of yours since QVC days, I feel I need to warm you about a cos member. I feel like you don't realize WHO he is! I'm talking about Grant Cardone. He is OT8, fundraiser for cos, and scammer. You are such a great guy. I hate to see you mixed up with this guy. I am just telling you this out of love for you.

[@kk-kb9jr]

There are a few on air personalities currently promoting Cardone, he IS a scam scientologist!!

[@rockyroad7345]

​@@kk-kb9jrWhy I won't watch certain movies...and we all know who they are. Don't want a dime of my money going to them.

[@bumpedhishead636]

A couple of years ago, Scientology moved into a building next to the 101 freeway in Ventura, CA that has a nice ocean view. On weekends, they have people on the street corners near the building with signs that say "Free Food". It reminds me of the Roadrunner cartoons when the Coyote would put out "Free Bird Seed" signs to lure-in the Roadrunner. It isn't clear what they really do inside that building, and I'm certainly not going inside to find out!

[@AECRADIO1]

I WOULD GO, BUT CARRYING MY .45 JUST IN CASE!

[@coastalfamily]

Leah... Mike... you have to add Aaron Smith-Levin to that list! He is driving David M mad and being so effective and persistent in his efforts to bringing the ongoing story to the public. His KZbin channel Growing Up in Scientology is just *awesome*.

[@SacGhostbusters]

He has mentioned him from time to time and I'm shocked that Mike would do anything nice for Grant Cardone because of that.

[@CJBW]

Another great source of real inside information is on KZbin is Blown for Good. Claire Headley was an expert witness at the Masterson trial and is now doing a series called ‘Where’s Shelly’ Shelly was her immediate supervisor and Claire knows her well.

[@Hezaa47]

Tony Ortega won’t mention Aaron’s name.. he’s catty like that. Aaron > Tony Ortega and Ortega knows it 😂

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

Do we know that taking a piss on DM has gotten anyone out of the cult? That is the only thing I care about. If no current members gets out because of it it's not helping anyone.

[@liadown9052]

​@@Hezaa47Ortega pulled some shady shit around his former COS sources during the Masterson trial? I caught wind of some such shenanigans but I support A-aron. He's very transparent.

[@toddjohnson5692]

Mike, if you want to get down to the truth, please interview Claire Headley who was the expert witness at the Danny Masterson trial that Scientology tried to torpedo.

[@gamerjaqi7873]

Absolutely Claire and Marc headley at blown for good. Also Aaron smith levin as he was there for the trial as a reporter and they are all on the board for the aftermath foundation.

[@Maxsmom13]

Absolutely! Claire and Marc Headly from the Blown for Good KZbin chanel and Aaron Smith-Levin from Growing up in scientology all 3 are amazing ex-scientolgists who are working to break that cult!

[@MarkDemarest]

​@@Maxsmom13Aaron's who brought me here! 💪🔥🙌

[@drdogbarker3830]

Don't. All these "ex" Scientologists still think like Scientologists and have stated that they would go back to the "church" if Miscavige was gone. They use the same techniques to get fans and money from their subscribers that they used when they were grifting for L Ron Hubbard. Their fans have forgotten that they were monsters...screwing people, taking their money and breaking up families. Claire Headly was approximately third in the heirarchy after Miscavige, and presents herself as a meek child woman. Come on people! Get your brains in gear.

[@bbeen40]

I live in St. Paul MN and our science museum moved to a new building. Scientology bought the old building. Gives me the f'n creeps everytime I drive by it

[@DSToNe19and83]

I live in mpls and know exactly what you talking about.

[@bbeen40]

@@DSToNe19and83 Isn't the front creepy?? The red lights....

[@Maxsmom13]

Mike! Great video. I came here from Growing up in scientology's youtube chanel. You need to interview Aaron Smith-Levin! Also it is time to unfriend Grant Cardone, one of scientology's biggest donors!

[@MrDibbons]

Back in 1979 (North Sacramento) my roomie got hooked by the "Church" of Scientology. I mailed in a kind of personality test that was graded by a member of the "church" who told me in an interview that I was "unhappy" according to my responses. I disagreed and picketed out front of the church with a sign that said "Cults may be Hazardous to your Health" on one side and "God have Mercy" on the other side. Two "church" member came outside to ask me who was sponsoring me. I told them I was picketing on my own. I was waiting for some media attention, but that never materialized. I used to work security at nights across the street from the "church" where I could see and hear pairs of members sitting in chairs face-to-face and screaming at one another. I thought by now the "church" would have been exposed as not being a church at all, however I see the government has continued to give the "church" a tax exempt status. Unbelievable. P.S. I got the idea for my sign after the Jim Jones massacre took place the year before (1978).

[@lindak3030]

The thing is, Scientology is exactly right. It's a church, and it's no different than any other church. It's not even more FOS or more abusive or harmful than the rest of them, they just do it in the open where the rest of them do it in secret. The solution isn't to take tax exempt status from Scientology as if they're an exception...the solution is to take it from all of them. Churches are just clubs full of people who like and believe the same things, there's no reason for any of them not to pay taxes.

[@Dastardly_Saboteur]

I love what Mike Rowe does and appreciate his wisdom so much, I just hope he realizes that Grant Cardone is a member of big contributor of Scientology. Very disappointed to see Mike take part in Cardones conferences.

[@maryskuza9772]

Wow, I didn't know that.

[@tvintx9741]

Can you share how you know Cardone is a Scientologist? Thanks in advance.

[@Dastardly_Saboteur]

a simple google search of his name followed by Scientologist will bring lots of stuff up. He talks about it all the time, its not a secret, he gives Scientology credit for his success. He is one of their largest donors.

[@NorseButterfly]

I can still envision the commercials peddling L. Ron Hubbard's book. Those commercials were everywhere. Then I got more info on scientology and was horrified. Like how a certain celebrity has kept his adopted children from even visiting his ex wife, or how that same celebrity's now 2nd ex wife, had to plan her escape with their daughter. I'm not fond of any organized "religion", I'm happier living my life as a Christian who isn't bound to a church. But scientology is really more cult like than religious.

[@d.e.b.b5788]

All religions are cults. It's just the ones that last beyond a certain time, manage to convince their followers that THEIR beliefs are the true one.

[@googlyeyedcat]

I remember those commercials

[@mikejohnson3338]

​@@googlyeyedcatyou talking about Tom, CB?

[@walter2990]

They are still advertising on TV, just not as often as in the past. They're about to "own" Clearwater, FL where they've got a huge complex and indoctrination center.

[@Sooner-im9qf]

Cult all the way.

[@StandwithMirriam]

Here from Aaron Smith-levin “growing up in Scientology❤❤❤

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

As a USNR exec officer of sub chaser USS PC-815 during WWII, L. Ron Hubbard ordered the ship into Mexican territorial waters and the subsequent shelling of Mexican territory (a U.S. ally). He also ordered the firing of 30+ depth charges at a submarine that never existed. The US Navy declared him unfit for command and recommended he be assignment to a larger vessel where he could be given adult supervision. He was a persistent malingerer, spending lots of time recovering from all manner of maladies. He also made several false claims of being injured in combat, as well as having received decorations never actually awarded. Can you say, "stolen valor?" This is all in official USN records, which the Church of Science Fiction claims are false. Of course they do 🤪 You know the deal: truth is stranger than [the church of science] fiction!

[@AECRADIO1]

L. RON BLUBBER ALSO CREATED ADDITIONAL MERITS TO HIS UN-EARNED PURPLE HEART, ALTERED HIS DD-214 TO GIVE HIMSELF HONORS NEVER EARNED, AND WAS NOTHING BUT A FAKE. L. RON BLUBBER WAS A PILE OF HUMAN FECES, FACTUALLY. HE HIMSELF, IS STOLEN LIFE....NOT WORTHY OF IT!

[@javabean215]

I had a friend who was deemed a "Subversive Person" (SP in their lingo). He had published a very disparaging video on Miscavage and the inner workings of "The Church" a few months earlier. The last time I talked to him (this was in Tampa, not far from Clearwater) he was excited and about to go on PTO for a week. He'd taken off work to move into a new apartment that he'd just signed a lease on. He never returned from that PTO. He was found dead in his old apartment with a garbage bag over his head and a helium tank nearby. Clearwater police ruled it suicide.

[@jphanks]

Suppressive person.

[@javabean215]

@@jphanks thanks

[@allwaizeright9705]

I bet their investigation revealed that he "FELL DOWN an ELEVATOR SHAFT onto some BULLETS in his BACK" - Suicide? Yeah Right! Sorry for your loss of a friend...

[@noracharles9366]

😮

[@aberamagold7509]

So you don't think it was suicide? Please elaborate. I ask because I don't think scientology is above doing such things. I've got zero proof, it's just a feeling I have due to some other things they've done.

[@deniseking8019]

I’ve enjoyed you for years, Mike! I’ve only just found out that you are on a crusade to unmask Scientology! Keep it up! These clowns need to be shut down!

[@seanys]

It’s well past time that that entire organisation was razed to the ground.

[@Tipperary757]

If you've ever seen the Scientology handbook, it is craziness! Just inane stuff. Anybody who would buy into that is so lost. Then they get trapped, and their money and freedom are stolen.

[@Happydealhappyday]

First of all, I left a cult (not scientology) about 4 years ago. Best and hardest decision I've ever had to make. Anyone who is talking about ending the cult BS is my hero. But Mike, you've been my hero for a long time - back since you sold "cherabimiums" on the Home Shopping Network.. :) My husband and I still watch that for a good laugh! Then I became a huge fan of Dirty Jobs, and then Returning the Favor on Facebook. You may remember visiting a tiny town in Western NY - Conesus. You helped a non-profit organization located on Pucker St. that needed a bigger garage to help restore cars for veterans returning home in need of a car. I drove by that day during filming and was very curious as to what was going on, especially on my dirt road in the middle of nowhere. One of my biggest life regrets is not being a nosy neighbor that day to see what was going on. I still can't believe you were that close to my house and I didn't get to meet you face to face. I'm so happy you are now tackling cults - makes me respect you even more! If you ever want to visit Pucker St. again, you are welcome anytime!!! :)

[@1984FarmDreams]

Where is Shelly? Justice For Lisa McPherson, Whitney Mills. There stories helped me understand what I saw and was feeling in Clearwater. This organization is so dark. Unbelievable. I felt like downtown Clearwater was like the Truman show. It got sooo weird. Stalked, followed, harassed- all just by going to the doctor. So many fronts in this organization. I learned. Still learning. If Hubbard Tech is so fantastic- why does it have to be disguised? This has been one of my greatest lessons ever about intuition and listening to it!

[@ArmyOfAngels2024]

I really wish Mike would run for president!! I would vote for him! 😂

[@JackThelRipper]

We all would, he knows it’s all bs with how it’s built and how it’s run like a cult as well lol.

[@frelnc]

L. Ron Hubbard - 'You don't get rich writing science fiction. If you want to get rich, you start a religion.'

[@lyndastarwriter8507]

A prophet, for sure...

[@pamelamays4186]

A few years ago I was working security at an event at the San Diego Convention Center. One of the keynote speakers was Mike Rowe. I was so thrilled to see the man in real life.

[@ChocolateRaisins]

Hell yeah the Church of Scientology intimidates law enforcement. I was told in Clearwater Florida by the detectives working in the human trafficking division that they knew wholeheartedly that the local Church of Scientology was engaging in human trafficking but that what we were up against was that the careers and lives of so many good men in law enforcement and the judiciary were ruined by Scientology, and they had to be very careful of investigating anything related to that organized crime organization. But that's why you find the reticence to investigate.

[@thebluemeeple]

Yikes. Sounds like the Mafia are smaller fries compared to them.

[@thelaughingprophet2275]

You are a good man Mike. Respect to you and your ways man.

[@mikehammers4800]

Great guys! I was actually riding my motorcycle off road in the surrounding mountains when I found the place in San Bernardino mountains. It is for sure a gated complex with security. I pulled up to the gate and was instantly turned away and followed. I took off road again and lost the tail… after I got home and researched I saw it was Scientology.

[@diannebutler1807]

Thank you, Mike - for throwing another Spotlight on this. I live in Atlanta, and have been in the Film/TV/Commercial realm since mid-70's when I lived in the Midwest. When GA began working with our State Legislators in the late 90's to create the most competitive TAX INCENTIVES (modeled after what Canada did to bring SO MUCH Film business up to them from LA)... and we very steadily drew more and more business here in the 2000's till now. SO MUCH SO, that in the past several years GA was the #1 highest Financial Film Center in the WORLD. Well, when all this started catching on and word spread, and people were MOVING here from everywhere... The "Church" of SCIENTOLOGY in early 2000's bought a large parcel of land on ROSWELL ROAD, within the City, and Fulton County... and BUILT a VERY PROMINENT "CHURCH" Building. They are RABID PREDATORS and EVIL TO THE CORE.

[@kathymcmc]

We moved out of ATL in 2011. The film industry is destroying Georgia.

[@Aeis_Kalt]

Scientology Is so fucking sketchy, that any time they are even mentioned in a case, involving ANYONE, if that person is a member, I automatically assume they are guilty as fuck. Saddest part is, I'm right damn near every time.

[@craigsymington5401]

I found that with Catholics, even my late grandmother!

[@jewelzbtully4934]

Mike you need to do more homework on Grant Cardone!! He's DEEP into Scientology!!

[@marfta7414]

Cardone is one of the major donors to Scientology $$$.

[@nikita2900]

But, who is he?

[@marfta7414]

@@nikita2900 google it...

[@catzdollz9810]

There was ALWAYS something SUPER CREEPY (to me) about Grant Cardone. I would NEVER listen to a word he said.....he's 100% a PHONY.

[@catzdollz9810]

@@nikita2900 you must be kind of young. Grant Cardone used yo constantly be on TV. Everybody used to see him and listen to him. He used to talk about how easy it was to become super RICH by real estate. Nowadays, everybody is staring at their phone so nobody knows who Grant Cardone actually is.

[@momishka7]

Love you Mike! Shelly’s been in that prison since her parents gave her to Ron as a teenager and she was on that boat in the middle of the ocean being brainwashed and then she met the weasel David. Poor Shelly…

[@pockets_is_cool]

so disappointed the media doesn’t boycott scientology actors. it’s a shame.

[@b2617]

Should they boycott any actor based on their religion?

[@pambrown8697]

@@b2617 yes

[@shanecutbirth1835]

Or political leanings?

[@Gil334]

@@b2617 Scientology is not a religion. It's a criminal organization. They pray to nothing.😅

[@NoobTamer]

@@shanecutbirth1835 They already do that. Please look at Disney for examples.

[@GrandDuchessAniya]

Scientology's tax exempt status is evidence that today's IRS isn't the IRS that took down Al Capone. I still wouldn't mess with them!

[@Buffatestuff]

I keep trying to follow the science, but it keeps leading to the money.

[@rockercater]

*Mike Rowe* THAnk you *awesome* *cater*

[@rockercater]

*read diabetics*

[@DakotaDeb]

I read Dianetics in the '80s right up to the part where he told men to choose women based on their ability to give birth easier...you know, like youd scrutinize a COW! I burned it. To the man who described it as a crappy word salad: Spot on.

[@puretoni]

If Mike knew what’s going on with children in CoS he would never ever ever stop til it ended

[@Sin-D_]

I love Mike Rowe!! We NEED more like him. PLEASE look up Mike Rowe’s interview with Spanky Taylor. It’s AMAZING, eye opening, and informative regarding Scientology’s destruction. It’s a must!!

[@user-ci7fp4rn9j]

Mike Rowe is such an amazing, honest, hardworking Real MAN, building awareness of how to be a real man working with your hands and making a great living for your family, thank you Mike

[@HazItMade]

"Follow the science" is more accurately engaged when you follow the money! It's said (tongue in cheek) that 9 out of 10 researchers results invariably agree with the politics of the guy who signs their checks!

[@katie7748]

Hence why so many have finally begun to say follow the $cience.

[@slartybarfastb3648]

@@katie7748 Yes, but the "science" is determined by whoever has the deepest pockets.

[@DSToNe19and83]

Exactly, if you have a pension on the line, you’ll say anything!

[@kalisawyer97]

I lived in Clearwater when this happened. It went back and forth. They won and became a church. I lost my job. Because they bought a lot of the buildings. It was awful We fought hard

[@rebelwithoutaclue5693]

Corruption runs deep in this country

[@Josie1987]

Especially under the veil of a church or religion.

[@rebelwithoutaclue5693]

@@Josie1987 organized religion is just another form of control over the people

[@tron.44]

Mike Rowe should have talked to Aaron Smith Levin directly.

[@juliawatson8874]

former members have stated the organization sued hundreds IRS agents personally til the IRS caved

[@roberttobias2153]

I believe it was a couple of thousand lawsuits. The IRS caved and Scientology got its tax exemption reinstated including dismissal of their former tax liability.

[@eileenmccann857]

Grant Cardone is a scientologist.

[@caroltomko9261]

And a con artist.

[@annem7806]

& keto Dr Eric Berg, chiropractor (not medical) & scientologist

[@rhetorical1488]

There was a booth at a fair years back selling the cults book and a lady had a pulse meter. she claimed it to be a special device that could prove i needed scientology. So of course i strap it on. there was this awesome little analog gauge that was supposed to read my negative emotional state. She then began asking questions designed to get me mad and increase my pulse and heart rate. I cant remember exactly the question but it went something like without scientology your child( standing beside me) will surely become a victim (of something). I looked her in the eye and told her flat out that should someone attempt to harm my child i will remove their beating heart from their chest and feed it to them. the little gauge did not flinch. the woman had the deer in headlights look alternating between me and the gauge. i took of the meter and told her it must be broken. she sort of nodded. I had an ear to ear smile the rest of the day

[@deannahenry2836]

Great podcast and Tony Ortega is amazing. Please reconsider relationship with Grant Cardone - it doesn’t make sense as he is a huge financial supporter of Scientology.

[@karennolt3325]

Thank you both for being truth seeking men. God bless you both. 🙏

[@BaronFeydRautha]

Which god?

[@wesman7837]

@@BaronFeydRautha Does it matter? Our creator! It doesn't matter what people call it.

[@BaronFeydRautha]

@@wesman7837 Begging the Question much? Gods are not necessary. The god claim is the most infantile way to explain nature.

[@GaiaCarney]

Great conversation, Mike Rowe 🕊 The more we learn about ‘controlling organizations’ the more we can pull our family & friends free!

[@maggiethompson8222]

Mike, be sure to investigate your connection with Grant Cardone. He's donated 35M to cos. Also, folks from the Aftermath Foundation would be a great resource. These are peeps who lived it and are surviving the Aftermath of leaving, whilst also helping others escape, rebuild. Spread the word, disseminate. ❤

[@stevebonds5157]

I remember the tv adds for the book Dyanetics growing up. Was on constantly

[@capnstewy55]

It makes no sense why the IRS didn't seize all of their assets.

[@AECRADIO1]

BLACKMAIL...SLYENTOLOGY PLAYS A DIRTY GAME.

[@KennebecRedneck]

I remember them pitching that book as The Owners Manual For The Human Brain

[@jaygatz4335]

Tom Cruise: are you listening? it may take more courage than your movie stunts, but definitely worth it.

[@billofrightssaysso4611]

Love Mike Rowe. He's a great American.

[@donaldavery4667]

Different kinds of prisons indeed! I was convicted by feds in 1993 for growing Marijuana. Arrived at prison with Marshalls and they said, "We're here." I asked, " This is a prison? Where is the fence or wall?" They said there wasn't one. I asked, " How do you keep people from escaping?" When they said, "You'll see." I decided to shut up. Within 24 hours I saw. They made it so nice nobody wanted to escape. Club Fed......lol

[@gardensofthegods]

Wow where was this I don't know if you mean the real Allenwood prison or another place ... I thought Allenwood does have a fence around it . Please can you tell us more about this place ... can you describe what it was like there ?

[@donaldavery4667]

@@gardensofthegods Morgantown, WV. Was the old school Club Fed before the Clinton crime bill. I used to joke: Great food, cheap cigarettes, putt putt, gymnasium, movie theater, two weight rooms, pool tables, ping pong, intermural sports, cable TV etc....the only thing I wasn't getting was sex....and I'm not getting that out here! Lol....And a cast of characters right out of a Scorcase film....smartest people I ever knew.

[@tomstanley7772]

Well done Mike. Presenting the known facts and letting us decide....... And yes I don't like or trust scientology anything that secretive and protected from what really is going on can't be good. That's my thoughts.

[@douglasrandall6737]

Thanks Mike. Please continue.

[@Light-Eater]

Thank you for speaking about this disease.

[@GrowingSelf-sufficient]

We love Mike Rowe, always something interesting. Thanks!

[@Gonzomedic1]

Great show Mike! Good luck Tony!

[@Mrch33ky]

10:53 This is a legal description of the type of group that Homeland Security was supposedly created to deal with. And it begins with a "T". Great video. Excellent content.

[@danielrandolph9170]

Good video Mike keep digging deeper !! Stay safe

[@jackwalsh1468]

Hey Mikey! I liked this episode a lot! A deep "Rabbit Hole" indeed... You ask the right questions and provoke serious thoughts as well.... Cheers, Mate.

[@buttneked3963]

David muscavich is 4’1” tall , how is this person intimidating anyone, especially a sheriffs department.

[@MUSTANG-FANNY]

Thank you!!

[@Jezidka]

TRUTH! Thank you Mike

[@tresfingeros]

Mr Rowe isnt afraid to dig into any topic or job and show good points or bring out the b.s. of others 👍

[@samuelwyatt191]

Mike Rowe for president

[@laskey2175]

At least we should train him for the job.

[@DavidWBIII]

I was approached by Scientology way back in the late 1990's. I just retired from the CFL, and I was talked into buying this book by Scientology and it was so damn popular back then. There were so many big wigs, etc., etc. and something about it just gave me the cold shoulder. Then low and behold, 20 years later and you hear story after story of these scumbags and what they have been doing to innocent and weak-minded individuals. You hear horror story of these places, and it is so sad what they have done to so many innocent people EVERYWHERE! I don't believe in any of these churches, and it should all be done within your own home, in private. Your relationship with God is personal and private. Thank you for sharing this and talking about the horror story of this LIE THAT IS SCIENTOLGY! PERIOD!

[@amandamerrell3145]

I love how this platform truly allows for your intelligence to shine!! Very smart man! We love you and your work

[@ctin904]

Thanks for airing this, Mike. You spoke at my company earlier this week. I wish I could have had time to go but I have heard good things from those who did. I'll be watching the video soon. Mike, did you know that Grant Cardone is one of the biggest funders and recruiters for Scientology?

[@liadown9052]

I don't know much about Mike Rowe. Does he support and promote Cardone? Yuck.

[@SPTVNeverIn67]

WELCOME TO @SPTV...

[@nncdrmr]

Just discovered Mike Rowe. Love to listen to the voice, and he certainly gets to the heart of things! Now I am a fan!

[@user-pq7pw7xu3w]

Thank you for your interest in how they operate with people like you Brin light to what is going on in a very harmful environment, keep it up and God bless you and your family

[@menthelius]

Lol! This goes back to the Science Fiction Conference where Hubbard and Herbert made their bet, who could create the next religion. Dune versus Scientology.

[@nanabutner]

What people either DO NOT KNOW or CHOOSE TO IGNORE is that L. RON HUBBARD was a recurring mental patient who was in and out of mental institutions beginning in 1940’s especially during WWII. “HELLO--DOESN’T THAT RAISE WARNING FLAGS FOR YOU?”. It did from day ONE for me!

[@Aldarion65]

@@nanabutner the problem with your statement is that the Cult of Scientology has brainwashed the majority of its members into believing that everything anyone but them says about ole Ronnie is a lie to try and hurt the church, this is why the majority of members that end of finally leaving feel stupid when they are not they just trusted their fellow men and women that lied to them

[@rickuyeda4818]

Just imagine if the President enacted an Executive Order to end Scientology tax exempt status!

[@puck61luck64]

Biden is a Treasonous Crook that has sold out America to China. And his Son as well to get kick backs from every country that he's given our taxes dollars to. He should pay the price for his Treason. And already be put under the jail. Along with his Evil Demon-cratic Government. The truth is there but many won't see it because they like being part of the Evil that is doing it.

[@craigsymington5401]

After he doubled the gas price again?

[@toddgardner2826]

My take away is that the IRS and cops can be bullied.

[@bazil7330]

thank you,

[@mattkaustickomments]

Mike, please be aware that a guy you apparently endorsed, Grant Cardone, is a major monetary contributor and recruiter for Co$. Please interview Aaron Smith-Levin of Growing Up In Scientology for more information and education.

[@MarshaMarsha885]

It’s a cult not an organization

[@lperez123]

We need more interviews like this

[@dthompson9568]

Thanks Mike ❤

[@tuvelat7302]

I remember doing a google search on Scientology back in the early 2000s. I wanted to know what they thought and all that. I saw the first site talking about remembering past lives of aliens. I laughed. Clearly, it was satire. And then another site said the same thing. And another... I was sitting there going "Dear Heaven, it sounds like this was religion was started by a sci-fi author". Then, I found out I'd called it.

[@MrWeedWacky]

What is the difference between living on earth - remembering a past life as an alien, or a future life in a heaven - remembering your life on earth? What point in the journey you are on...

[@Puddlewiggle]

To someone with faith in Christ, all the difference in the world.

[@MrWeedWacky]

@@Puddlewiggle lol...