Get Obsessed : With Living Your Best Life

In this episode of the Get Obsessed podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Mika Altidor speak with Anne Gollert Hill about Scientology, her years in the Sea Org, and her eventual escape from Scientology after nearly two decades inside the organization. 

Anne is a Canadian writer, survivor, and creator of the blog My Scientology Story, where she shares her experiences inside one of Scientology's highest-ranking divisions and her journey toward rebuilding her life after leaving.

Anne shares how a search for purpose led her into Scientology and eventually into the Sea Org, where she signed the Billion-year contract and spent years inside the organization's inner ranks. She discusses life under David Miscavige, the influence of celebrity Scientologists, including Tom Cruise, John Travolta, Kirstie Alley, and Leah Remini, and her journey toward freedom after leaving.

In this episode, we discuss:

Anne’s background and how she became involved with Scientology

How Scientology recruited her through emotional vulnerability

What Scientology is and how it presents itself publicly

The path to joining the Sea Organization and signing the billion-year contract

Recruitment to international management and life inside Scientology leadership

David Miscavige’s leadership and the atmosphere of fear inside the Sea Org

Community inside the Sea Org and the policy prohibiting children

 
ABOUT THE GUEST:

Anne Gollert Hill is a Canadian writer, survivor, and creator of the blog My Scientology Story, where she shares her experiences inside Scientology and her journey toward freedom. After joining Scientology in 1988 during a difficult chapter in her life, she became deeply involved in the organization and was eventually recruited into the Sea Org's international communications division, serving at some of Scientology's highest-level facilities, including Gold Base.

After nearly two decades inside the organization, Anne left Scientology on August 3, 2007, walking out of the Flag Land Base in Clearwater, Florida, with only the clothes on her back. Today, she speaks openly about coercive influence, recovery, personal freedom, and the lasting impact of life inside a high-control organization. Through her writing and advocacy, she helps others better understand the realities of indoctrination, escape, and rebuilding life after leaving Scientology.

 

MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:

(Book) Troublemaker by Leah Remini - https://www.amazon.com/Troublemaker-Surviving-Scientology-Leah-Remini/dp/1101886986

(Video) Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath (Netflix) - https://www.netflix.com/title/81229101

(Reference) BITE Model of Authoritarian Control - https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/bite-model-pdf-download/

CONNECT WITH ANNE GOLLERT HILL:

Website: My Scientology Story: http://agollerthill.wordpress.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annehillwriter/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agollerthill 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@annegollerthill 

 
ABOUT GET OBSESSED

Website: www.getobsessedpodcast.com

Be a Guest! http://www.getobsessedguest.com 

Reach Out To Us! [email protected] 

The Get Obsessed podcast is dedicated to exploring the passions, mindsets, and habits that drive high performers. We believe that what you obsess over defines your future.

LISTEN, RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE - Get Obsessed : With Living Your Best Life - Podcast - Apple Podcasts

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER: 

The views, personal accounts, and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest, Anne Gollert Hill, based on her own lived experiences and recollections. This podcast makes no independent factual claims regarding the Church of Scientology or any of its members, leaders, or affiliated individuals. All statements reflect the guest's personal perspective and memory and should not be construed as established legal fact. The Church of Scientology denies many of the claims made by former members. Neither this podcast, its hosts, its production team, nor its parent company endorses, verifies, or assumes legal responsibility for the guest's account. This episode is produced for informational and entertainment purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to seek out multiple sources when forming their own conclusions. Nothing in this episode constitutes legal advice.

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If you haven't listened to last week's sit-down with former NFL star Marcus Ogden yet — go do that first. This week, Julie and Mika return to unpack every layer of his extraordinary rise, fall, and second act. Marcus went from being a dominant NFL player and minority contractor holding Baltimore's top government contract — to making $8.15 an hour cleaning restrooms. This is what rock bottom really looks like, and more importantly, what the climb back up teaches us all.

Jules and Mika explore how Marcus was able to share his story without emotional charge — speaking from wisdom rather than wound — and why that signals a man truly living his mission. They dig into the parallels between addiction to substances and addiction to status, success, and dopamine, asking the question: is ego just another drug?

"To have an ego that big, it had to be brought down. His rock bottom was a way of showing the height of where he was — and for him to come back from that, it's almost like he is called to share this." — Mika Altidor

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Ego is a dopamine loop. Marcus replaced drug and alcohol addiction with the high of being "number one" — the most successful minority contractor in Baltimore. Success without humility can be its own trap.

Comeback stories are rare — and that's why they matter. Jules and Mika reflect on how few people actually return from that depth of loss. Marcus's story is a Cinderella story because the odds were against him, and he made it anyway.

Rock bottom can be a reset, not an ending. For Marcus, cleaning toilets wasn't the end of his story — it was the stripping away of everything fake so the real self could rebuild.

Shared vulnerability is mission work. When you've been through something extraordinary, telling the truth about it stops being personal — it becomes a calling. Marcus embodies that shift.

Check your ego before the universe does. Mika shares her own moment of realizing praise was inflating her sense of self. The universe has a way of recalibrating — best to do it yourself first.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Julie Lokun (https://julielokun.com) is a life coach, author, and the visionary behind the Get Obsessed Podcast — a show dedicated to stories that unlock human potential. Mika Altidor (https://mikaaltidor.com) is an entrepreneur, speaker, and owner of the Vegan Monarch Café in Winter Haven, FL. Together, they bring warmth, wit, and unapologetically real conversation to every episode.

CONNECT & LISTEN:

Listen & Subscribe: https://getobsessedpodcast.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getobsessedpodcast Julie Lokun: https://julielokunconsulting.com Mika Altidor: https://victormikabakery.com

KEYWORDS & TAGS: Marcus Ogden NFL, riches to rags story, NFL player addiction recovery, ego and success, entrepreneurship mindset, rock bottom comeback story, overcoming addiction podcast, minority entrepreneur Baltimore, personal reinvention, dopamine and ambition, human spirit resilience, motivational podcast for women, Get Obsessed Podcast, Julie Lokun, Mika Altidor

RECAP:

This episode of the Get Obsessed Podcast, hosted by Julie Lokun and Mika Altidor, features a debrief on former NFL player Marcus Ogden — exploring themes of addiction recovery, ego-driven failure, entrepreneurial reinvention, and the psychology of comeback stories. Marcus Ogden rose from an NFL career to building Baltimore's top minority-owned government construction contract, lost everything including his sobriety, and rebuilt from working as a janitor at $8.15 an hour. This episode is relevant for searches on: NFL player comeback, addiction and success, ego as addiction, riches to rags, minority entrepreneurship, motivational podcast, and personal reinvention stories.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What we are obsessed with! 

We are OBSESSED with all things self-care and the wonderful products at COZY EARTH- that include the best bed sheets ever (JULIE IS OBSESSED) and the warmest, most indulgent robes (MIKA IS OBSESSED). 

Visit their website http://www.cozyearth.com use the code OBSESSED, and save 20%.

— — — 

 

In this episode of the Get Obsessed podcast, Marques Ogden talks with hosts Julie Lokun and Mika Altidor about how ego shaped his life after the NFL and what it ultimately cost him.

A former NFL player who went on to build a multi-million dollar construction company, Marques shares how his rapid success in business, more than football, fueled a sense of invincibility that led to losing everything.

He speaks candidly about bankruptcy, hitting rock bottom while working as a janitor for $8 an hour, and the moment he had to take full responsibility for where he ended up. Through that experience, he gained a deeper understanding of relationships versus money and why real connection matters more than status or success. Today, Marques uses those lessons to guide others, grounded in humility, accountability, and a commitment to never return to the person he once was.

In this episode, we discuss:

The hidden cost of success and the pressure behind life after the NFL

Owning the fall when ego takes control

From NFL player to entrepreneur and unexpected success

Struggles with relationships vs money and identity outside the game

How ego grew outside football and led to bankruptcy

Losing friendships and discovering who truly stays at rock bottom

Rebuilding with humility, credibility, and real connections

 
ABOUT THE GUEST

Marques Ogden is a keynote speaker, five-time bestselling author, and former NFL offensive lineman who now speaks to organizations on leadership, resilience, and overcoming failure. After playing five seasons in the NFL, he built a multi-million dollar construction company that eventually collapsed, leading him to file for bankruptcy and hit rock bottom.

That experience became a defining turning point, forcing him to confront his ego and rebuild his life from the ground up with humility and accountability. Today, Marques uses those lessons to teach individuals and teams how to execute through adversity and develop a resilient mindset.

He is also the host of the globally ranked podcast Get Authentic with Marques Ogden, reaching over 750,000 people monthly through his message of growth, ownership, and transformation.

CONNECT WITH MARQUES OGDEN:

Website: https://bookmarquesogden.com/

Get Authentic with Marques Ogden - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-authentic-with-marques-ogden/id1633323257

The Success Cycle by Marques Ogden - https://www.amazon.com/Success-Cycle-Achieving-Goals-Business/dp/1642931748

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarquesOgdenSpeaker/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marquesogden/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marquesogden/

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/Marques_Ogden

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbROb_i2Ef3mr6OFoBOFjuQ

 
ABOUT GET OBSESSED

Website: www.getobsessedpodcast.com

Be a Guest! http://www.getobsessedguest.com 

Partner With US! http://www.getobsessedpod.com 

The Get Obsessed podcast is dedicated to exploring the passions, mindsets, and habits that drive high performers. We believe that what you obsess over defines your future.

LISTEN, RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE - Get Obsessed : With Living Your Best Life - Podcast - Apple Podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mika Altidor and Julie Lokun are handing the mic over to the powerhouse behind Modern Mom Problems, Tara Clark. In this featured episode, Tara sits down with the iconic Dr. Rachel NYC (Dr. Rachel Goldman) to discuss her transformative new book, When Life Happens.

www.modernmomprobs.com

The conversation dives deep into the "mental load" and how our brains are often wired for survival in a modern world that doesn't have bears, but does have endless "pings" and social comparisons. Dr. Rachel breaks down the psychology of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), making it accessible for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or trapped by negative self-talk. From changing your "system" for body confidence to the power of five-minute micro-habits, this episode is a masterclass in reclaiming your mindset.

The Obsession Highlights


The "Bear in the Woods" Theory: Why your brain reacts to a box of Legos falling over the same way it reacts to a predator.


Changing the System: Tara shares her personal "beach outfit" hack that shifted her from body insecurity to being fully present with her family.


CBT for the Real World: How thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are linked, and why you don't need a diagnosis to benefit from these tools.


The "Just Do It" Psychology: Why behavioral activation is the key to breaking free from a "stuck" feeling.


Micro-Habits: The power of five-minute sprints and why sustainability beats an "all-in" overhaul every time.

Connect With Our Guests & Hosts

Modern Mom Problems


Website: www.modernmomprobs.com


Dr. Rachel’s Book: www.whenlifehappensbook.com


Follow Dr. Rachel: @DrRachelNYC

Get Obsessed Podcast


Instagram: @getobsessedpodcast


Website: www.getobsessedpodcast.com


Work With Us: Be a Guest | Join the Obsession

The Hosts


Julie Lokun: www.bigbetterbrand.com | www.bigbetterbrand.co


Mika Altidor: www.victormikabakery.com

FAQ: Get Obsessed Podcast

Who are the hosts of Get Obsessed? The show is hosted by Julie Lokun, a branding expert and writer, and Mika Altidor, a successful entrepreneur and co-owner of Victor & Mika’s Bakery. Together, they explore the passions, habits, and mindsets of people who are "obsessed" with excellence.

What is the "Get Obsessed" philosophy? We believe that greatness comes from a healthy obsession. We highlight entrepreneurs, authors, and thought leaders who tell it like it is and provide actionable advice to help our "Obsessors" level up their lives.

How can I be a guest on the show? We are always looking for dynamic voices! You can apply directly through our dedicated guest portals at www.getobsessedpod.com or www.getobsessedguest.com.

Where can I find Julie and Mika outside of the podcast? Julie leads brand strategy at Big Better Brand, while Mika continues to innovate in the culinary world via Victor & Mika’s Bakery. You can find their full bios and business links in the show notes above!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What we are obsessed with! 

We are OBSESSED with all things self-care and the wonderful products at COZY EARTH- that include the best bed sheets ever (JULIE IS OBSESSED) and the warmest, most indulgent robes (MIKA IS OBSESSED). 

Visit their website http://www.cozyearth.com use the code OBSESSED, and save 20%.

— — — 

 

In this episode of the Get Obsessed podcast, Savannah Louie sits down with hosts Julie Lokun and Mika Altidor to share what it means to be a true survivor, how resilience is built under pressure, and how she handled the reality of social media backlash after winning Survivor 49. 

Savannah is the winner of Survivor 49 and a reality TV competitor who navigated one of the most intense psychological and social games while under constant public scrutiny.

This conversation goes beyond the game, uncovering how perception, pressure, and public opinion shape identity both on and off screen. Savannah reflects on maintaining emotional control in high-stakes moments, building confidence despite criticism, and turning backlash into fuel for growth. Through honest storytelling and insights, she reveals how being underestimated became her advantage and how her experience continues to inspire others to own their voice unapologetically.

In this episode, we discuss:

Savannah’s Survivor journey and how she turned adversity and criticism into success

Reality television as both escapism and a reflection of social strategy

Authenticity under constant surveillance and its psychological impact

Intensive preparation involving physical conditioning and social skill development

Personality testing and gendered interpretation of assertive traits

Gender bias and the role of appearance in shaping audience perception

Public backlash, self-reflection, and using the platform for impact

 
ABOUT THE GUEST

Savannah Louie is the winner of Survivor 49, where she navigated one of the most intense psychological and social competitions on television. Throughout the game, she balanced strategy, adaptability, and emotional awareness while being observed and judged in real time.

Beyond the screen, Savannah’s experience highlights the power of resilience, especially in the face of public scrutiny and social media backlash. She has become a voice for embracing authenticity, showing how being underestimated can become a powerful advantage.

Today, she uses her platform to empower others to own their story, build confidence, and stay grounded in who they are no matter who is watching.

CONNECT WITH SAVANNAH LOUIE:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahhvz/

 
ABOUT GET OBSESSED

Website: www.getobsessedpodcast.com

Be a Guest! http://www.getobsessedguest.com 

Partner With US! http://www.getobsessedpod.com 

The Get Obsessed podcast is dedicated to exploring the passions, mindsets, and habits that drive high performers. We believe that what you obsess over defines your future.

LISTEN, RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE - Get Obsessed : With Living Your Best Life - Podcast - Apple Podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.