7.550 minSeason 1 • Episode 3
LatestWith the Franke family increasingly isolated, people on the outside try to find out what's happening. The reality is worse than anyone imagined.
When popular vlogger Ruby Franke is arrested for child abuse in August 2023, it quickly becomes one of the biggest trending stories in America. For years, the Frankes' YouTube channel had documented a wholesome, happy family life, with nearly 3 million subscribers tuning in at its peak. But as the cracks began to show, the family turned to counselor Jodi Hildebrandt for guidance – and rapidly found themselves trapped in a nightmare.
Editing
Chilling juxtaposition of saccharine vlogs with police bodycam footage.
Writing
Unpacks how Jodi Hildebrandt's therapy cult metastasized within a family.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Ruby's eldest daughter Shari had already been estranged from the family for months before the arrest, posting ominous hints on her own social media that followers initially dismissed as teenager drama.
The case sparked renewed scrutiny of 'mommy vlogging' ethics, particularly the Mormon influencer subculture where large families and strict parenting became monetizable content.
No ratings yet
Sign in to join the discussion — comments are spoiler-gated to your watch progress.
Discussion starters
GB
