Ep 2. Nightmare At Nxivm

In the second episode of season 14 of American Greed, viewers are taken deep into the world of the self-help group Nxivm. The group, based in upstate New York, was founded by a man named Keith Raniere and promised members self-empowerment and personal growth.

But as the episode's title suggests, this was far from the reality for some members. Nxivm was eventually exposed as a cult that included sex trafficking, branding, and other forms of physical and emotional abuse. The episode, titled "Nightmare At Nxivm," tells the story of how Nxivm operated and how it was eventually dismantled by law enforcement.

To understand how Nxivm operated, the episode introduces viewers to several former members of the group. Sarah Edmondson, for example, was a high-ranking member of Nxivm who eventually left the group and became one of its key whistleblowers. She describes how the group promised its followers success and fulfillment, but that this came at a steep cost.

One of the key tools Nxivm used to manipulate and control its members was "collateral." This could include embarrassing secrets or compromising photos that members were required to turn over to the group. The collateral was then used as leverage to ensure members' loyalty and silence.

As the episode progresses, viewers learn more about Raniere himself. He is described as a charismatic but deeply manipulative man who was obsessed with power and control. One former member describes him as a "psychopath." But at the same time, he was able to attract a following of wealthy and influential people, including actors and politicians.

One of these followers was Allison Mack, an actress known for her role on the TV show Smallville. Mack became one of Nxivm's most dedicated members and was eventually recruited into a secret inner circle known as DOS. This circle was made up of women who were branded with Raniere's initials and forced to engage in sexual acts with him. Mack became one of DOS's leaders and was instrumental in recruiting other women into the group.

The episode also covers the role of law enforcement in bringing down Nxivm. This includes the efforts of Frank Parlato, a journalist who spent years investigating the group and publishing his findings on his website. Parlato's work helped to expose the group's abuses and played a key role in bringing Raniere and others to justice.

Ultimately, "Nightmare At Nxivm" is a chilling and eye-opening look at a group that claimed to be helping people but was, in reality, committing horrific abuses. The episode is a reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and manipulation, and of the importance of holding those who use it accountable.