Ep 2. The Ultimate Failure of Scientology

Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath season 2 episode 2, titled "The Ultimate Failure of Scientology," delves into the heartbreaking story of Aaron Smith-Levin, a former high-ranking member of the church who has since left and is now committed to exposing the harmful practices of Scientology.

Through testimonies from Aaron himself, as well as from former members and experts, the episode provides a deep dive into the ways in which Scientology uses tactics like manipulation, coercion, and isolation to keep members loyal and obedient. Aaron shares his own personal experiences, including the harrowing tale of how he was punished for questioning the teachings of the church. He describes the grueling rehabilitation process he was subjected to, which included being forced to stand in a garbage can filled with ice water for hours on end.

The episode also looks at the financial practices of Scientology, which are often shrouded in secrecy. Aaron discusses how the church pressured members to donate large sums of money to fund their various programs, and how he himself was forced to sell off his assets in order to contribute. Experts weigh in on the legality of these practices, which some view as outright fraud.

Other former members come forward to share their own stories of manipulation, including Alex Gibney, a writer and documentary filmmaker who has done extensive work on the church. Actors like Jason Lee and Paul Haggis, both former members, describe how they were drawn in by the church's promises of spiritual enlightenment, only to find themselves trapped in a world of fear and control.

Overall, "The Ultimate Failure of Scientology" is a powerful, eye-opening episode that sheds light on the often horrific practices of this controversial church. Through the voices of those who have been directly impacted by Scientology's tactics, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the psychological and emotional toll it can take on those who become involved.