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Heaven's Gate

SiriusXM·Hosted by Glynn Washington·11 episodes

HistorySerialized documentaryCult historyHost-led narrative40-55 min/epCompleted seriesPublic radio style

In 1997, thirty-nine people took their own lives in an apparent mass suicide. The events captivated the media and had people across the planet asking the same question... ‘Why?’ 20 years later, those who lost loved ones and those who still believe - tell their story. Hosted by Glynn Washington of Snap Judgment. "Heaven's Gate: The Cult of Cults," is now a four-part docuseries inspired by this podcast, streaming on HBO Max.

Why listen

Heaven's Gate is a carefully reported, emotionally grounded documentary about how ordinary seekers became part of one of the most infamous religious movements in modern American history. Host Glynn Washington brings unusual personal context, having grown up in a cult himself, and the series blends archival material, family testimony, former believers, and intimate narration. It is best for listeners who want a human explanation of cult belief, grief, devotion, and manipulation rather than a sensational retelling.

Series(1)

Episodes

5 min
Jul 7, 2021
Introducing Toxic: The Britney Spears Story

Comedians Tess Barker and Babs Gray, who you might know from Lady to Lady or the now legendary Britney’s Gram podcast, are here to bring you a brand new investigative series about Britney Spears' conservatorship and the court system that's allowed it to persist.After launching the #FreeBritney movement, they started to dig… And what they found out, you won’t want to miss! Join Tess and Babs as they talk to exclusive sources, examine new sides of the story, and uncover disturbing truths about our legal system that go way beyond Britney. Listen to Episodes 1 & 2 right now: link.chtbl.com/ToxicThePodcast

53 min
Dec 27, 2017Episode 10
The Class

39 people exit their vehicles, and stun the world. Families, classmates and the rest of us grapple with what comes after.

48 min
Dec 20, 2017Episode 9
The Comet

Heaven’s Gate members get the sign they’ve been waiting for.

51 min
Dec 13, 2017Episode 8
The Unknowns

This week - the “what if” questions surrounding Heaven’s Gate. Plus, your stories.

45 min
Dec 6, 2017Episode 7
The Programming

Gail Maeder was smart, fun and happy, before she joined Heaven’s Gate. What got into her head?

41 min
Nov 29, 2017Episode 6
The Choice

Frank and Erika, a couple in love, join a celibate group. Years later, Do poses a fateful question.

40 min
Nov 15, 2017Episode 5
The Tape

After a sudden death in the group, Do sends a private, awkward, illuminating, confusing tape to Terrie Nettles.

38 min
Nov 8, 2017Episode 4
The Host

Host Glynn Washington shares more from his personal story of growing up in a cult.

44 min
Nov 1, 2017Episode 3
The Mothers

While The Two are recruiting new members into their nomadic lifestyle, one woman is trying desperately to make contact.

40 min
Oct 25, 2017Episode 2
The Two

It's one thing to join a group your mom would call a cult. It's another thing when your mom starts one.

35 min
Oct 18, 2017Episode 1
The Seekers

The Heaven's Gate faithful weren't freaks or space cadets. They were regular people, hungry for something more. They were Seekers.

3 min
Oct 2, 2017
Coming soon… Heaven’s Gate

Here’s a first glimpse through Heaven’s Gate - into the group’s decades-long history, as told by family, followers, experts, and the leaders themselves. Whatever you think you know - prepare to be surprised. Subscribe now and hear the first episode on October 18th. More info at www.heavensgate.show.