The shocking arrest of YouTube vlogger Ruby Franke in August 2023 for child abuse stunned millions who had followed her seemingly picture-perfect family online. But behind the curated image was a much darker reality—one shaped by the influence of counselor Jodi Hildebrandt, whose extreme teachings led the Franke family into a nightmare of control, manipulation, and ultimately, tragedy.

In Devil in the Family, the Frankes’ eldest children, Shari and Chad, and Ruby’s husband, Kevin, speak out for the first time, revealing disturbing details about their family’s unraveling. This episode of Mormon Stories reacts to the gripping documentary, unpacking the shocking revelations and their broader implications.

We dive into the early days of Ruby Franke’s vlogging career, how Mormon culture fueled the rise of “mommy bloggers,” and the immense pressure for families to present an idealized version of life online. As Ruby Franke’s channel gained traction, the demands of content creation took a toll on the family, leading to disturbing instances where obedience was equated with love, and discipline escalated into outright abuse. Kevin’s role as a passive enabler is also explored, as well as the dangerous belief systems that allowed Jodi Hildebrandt to wield immense power over the Frankes.

Key moments in the discussion include:

• The cultural expectation of perfectionism in LDS families.
• The manipulative tactics of Jodi Hildebrandt and her role in isolating Ruby Franke from her loved ones.
• The devastating effects of social media on the Franke children.
• How LDS doctrine, end-times beliefs, and obedience-driven parenting played into the family’s downfall.
• The neighbors’ growing concerns, leading up to the moment when Ruby Franke’s son escaped and exposed the horrifying abuse.

As the conversation unfolds, we examine how unchecked religious and psychological manipulation can enable abuse and the importance of critically analyzing harmful belief systems. This episode goes beyond true crime—it’s a deep dive into control, coercion, and the high cost of blind faith.

Join us as we reflect on this tragic case, discuss the lessons that can be learned, and explore how families, faith communities, and online platforms must do better to protect the vulnerable.