<p>This week we're Journeying through the strange, secretive world of <strong>Opus Dei</strong>—a Catholic power‑sect known for celibacy, discipline, political influence, and a suspicious number of high‑ranking professionals. We cover its origins under <strong>Josemaría Escrivá</strong>, its rise during <strong>Franco’s dictatorship </strong>and what you need to know about Opus Dei.</p><p>Along the way, Taylor bravely confronts his belief that “self‑flagellation” might involve toots (it does not), while we unpack gender‑segregated living, financial obedience, and the cult‑within‑a‑cult energy that keeps Opus Dei at the center of conspiracy chatter. This episode sets the stage for next week’s deeper dive into their real‑world controversies and dark‑money influence.</p><p>Gareth Gore is the man who wrote the book you're gonna want to check out; <strong>Opus: The Cult of Dark Money, Human Trafficking, and Right-Wing Conspiracy inside the Catholic Church</strong></p><p>I will be reading it long after I drafted and recorded this episode - Chelsie</p>