EP25: It Rubs The Lotion On Its Skin

Published: Aug. 16, 2023, 4 a.m.

In the 1980s, Gary Heidnik ran a church out of his home in Philadelphia with fifty devout congregants professing their unwavering loyalty. Flaunting multiple flashy cars and a considerable bank account accumulated through the contributions of his vulnerable devotees, this spiritual leader ensured that all adherents remained committed to his teachings and, crucially, perpetually subordinate.\xa0 However, it was the tragic plight of a group of enslaved women kept in Heidnik\u2019s basement beneath his church that would ultimately catapult this despicable individual into infamy, and would later serve as the perverse inspiration behind the notorious cinematic character Buffalo Bill from "The Silence of the Lambs."\xa0 Heidnik subjected his female captives to the horrors of ongoing sexual enslavement, severe physical abuse, and twisted psychological torment. \xa0 If you\u2019ve seen the literal horror movie based on this tragic case, you might believe you are prepared for the extent of the moral corruption and depravity at play. However, we urge you to exercise discretion while listening, as the gruesome and heartbreaking acts addressed in this episode surpass any portrayal a Hollywood production could possibly convey.\xa0 PLEASE LISTEN WITH CAUTION!\n Instagram + Threads: @psychopediapod @tank.sinatra @investigatorslater\n Patreon:\xa0www.patreon.com/psychopediapod\n Email:\xa0psychopediapod@gmail.com\n Website: www.psychopediapodcast.com\n \nTo learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy\n \n Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices