12 episodes
Heaven's Gate Stitcher Studios
-
- History
-
-
4.6 • 4.6K Ratings
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
3: The Mothers
While The Two are recruiting new members into their nomadic lifestyle, one woman is trying desperately to make contact.
-
4: The Host
Host Glynn Washington shares more from his personal story of growing up in a cult.
-
5: The Tape
After a sudden death in the group, Do sends a private, awkward, illuminating, confusing tape to Terrie Nettles.
Customer Reviews
Just perfect
I love the interviews with people close to the victims, the surviving members, the daughter of one of the leaders (!), a never-before heard tape to this daughter, etc. Also, I deeply appreciate the empathetic approach the host takes. So easy for podcasts to become disdainful of people who would fall into the trap of a cult. This is so much more, and takes all views into account in a compassionate manner. Thank you!
Fascinating, great interviews
My favorite thing about this podcast is how the host treats everyone with so much respect. It really bothers me, especially with “cult” podcasts or docs, when the interviewer comes from a place of condescension. This is an awful thing that happened and is absolutely fascinating, but there are real people and real families behind this story who are still grieving and trying to figure out how something like this could have happened. Glynn approaches every person with curiosity and respect, and I think that allows the listener to come to their own understanding of the danger of what happened here and why this is such an important cautionary tale.
Where’d you get your facts?!?
First episode, few minutes in, podcaster calls this the “largest mass suicide in American history.” Have you ever read any history?Jonestown, Guyana. November 18, 1978.