Conspiracy Theories, Cults, & Crimes

On May 13, 1981, Pope John Paul II was shot in broad daylight in St. Peter’s Square—an attack that stunned the world and left behind decades of unanswered questions. In this episode of Conspiracy Theories, Cults, and Crimes, Vanessa Richardson investigates the gunman, Mehmet Ali Ağca, his ties to far-right extremist groups, and the tangled web of theories surrounding who truly ordered the assassination. From Cold War intrigue and alleged KGB involvement to apocalyptic prophecies tied to the Secrets of Fátima, this episode explores how faith, politics, and paranoia collided in one of the most mysterious assassination attempts in modern history—and why the truth may never fully be known.

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In the 1980s and 1990s, a secretive spiritual order spread across Europe and Canada, promising enlightenment, cosmic destiny, and rebirth among the stars. Instead, it led to one of the most disturbing cult tragedies in modern history. In this episode of Conspiracy Theories, Cults, and Crimes, Vanessa Richardson investigates the Order of the Solar Temple, its charismatic leaders Joseph Di Mambro and Luc Jouret, and the blend of New Age beliefs, Catholic ritual, and apocalyptic prophecy that drew hundreds of devoted followers. As paranoia, financial exploitation, and staged “miracles” spiraled out of control, the group’s teachings culminated in coordinated murders and mass deaths that claimed 74 lives across two continents. This is the haunting story of how faith, secrecy, and manipulation turned belief into catastrophe.

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A string of high-profile killings involving tech leaders sparked fears that Silicon Valley’s elite were being hunted—but the truth is far more complicated. In this episode of Conspiracy Theories, Cults, and Crimes, Vanessa Richardson examines the so-called “Tech Bro Murders,” unpacking the brutal deaths of entrepreneur Fahim Saleh, Cash App co-creator Bob Lee, and rising tech leader Pava LaPere. Through each case, the episode reveals how personal relationships, misplaced trust, misogyny, and systemic failures—not wealth alone—led to devastating violence. It’s a sobering look at how ambition, power, and proximity can turn deadly behind the glossy image of the tech world.

If you’re new here, don’t forget to follow Conspiracy Theories, Cults, & Crimes to never miss a case! For Ad-free listening and early access to episodes, subscribe to Crime House+ on Apple Podcasts. Conspiracy Theories, Cults and Crimes is a Crime House Original Podcast, powered by PAVE Studios

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What if reality isn’t real at all? In this episode of Conspiracy Theories, Cults, and Crimes, Vanessa Richardson explores Simulation Theory — the unsettling idea that our world may be an advanced computer program. Tracing the concept from ancient philosophy and science fiction to modern thinkers like Nick Bostrom and today’s tech leaders, this episode examines why millions believe we’re living in a simulation, the so-called “glitches” people claim as proof, and the dangerous consequences when the theory blurs the line between belief and violence. Is this a harmless thought experiment… or a worldview with real-world consequences?

If you’re new here, don’t forget to follow Conspiracy Theories, Cults, & Crimes to never miss a case! For Ad-free listening and early access to episodes, subscribe to Crime House+ on Apple Podcasts. Conspiracy Theories, Cults and Crimes is a Crime House Original Podcast, powered by PAVE Studios

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In December 1969, the Rolling Stones set out to create the West Coast’s answer to Woodstock — a free concert meant to celebrate peace, music, and the spirit of the era. Instead, the Altamont Speedway Free Festival descended into chaos. With the Hells Angels hired as security, a massive, unruly crowd, and mounting violence throughout the day, the event spiraled toward tragedy. When 18-year-old Meredith Hunter was killed during the Stones’ set, Altamont became a symbol of the counterculture’s dark turn. In this episode, Vanessa Richardson recounts the disastrous planning, escalating tensions, and fatal chain of events that transformed a landmark concert into one of rock history’s most haunting cautionary tales.

If you’re new here, don’t forget to follow Conspiracy Theories, Cults and Crimes to never miss a case! For Ad-free listening and early access to episodes, subscribe to Crime House+ on Apple Podcasts. Conspiracy Theories, Cults and Crimes is a Crime House Original Podcast, powered by PAVE Studios

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Listen to other Crime House Originals Clues, Crimes Of…, Serial Killers & Murderous Minds, Crime House 24/7, Murder True Crime Stories and more wherever you get your podcasts!

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