Strange Country Ep.150: Synanon
If you're like us, you likely never heard of Synanon, but its tactics live on in "tough-love" drug rehabilitation programs. Synanon was founded in 1958 by Charles Dederich, and it was the first ever non-medical drug rehabilitation program. And then it became a cult. Join Beth and Kelly as they share the story of shaved heads, forced abortions and the origin story of one of Nancy Reagan's favorite programs.
Theme music: Big White Lie by A Cast of Thousands
Cite your sources:
"Doris Gambonini, a Ranch Woman Who Comforted Synanon Refugees, Dies at 80." The Point Reyes Light, 2 Oct. 2014…
The skinny
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