Followers

Episode 1 looks into the man himself. Who was he? What did his so-called healing look like? And how did his clients view him then and now? The reporters traveled to Kutná Hora, where Richard worked, to find out.

Episode 2 looks into how Richard the healer became more than that for some people. It explores the conditions, relationships and beliefs of his closest admirers. The reporters get important insight from a young woman who had been one of Richard’s closest friends since childhood.

Episode 3 delves into the bizarre theories that Richard espoused and how he became almost a holy man for his followers. Yet the women who knew him in private say he was very different. This episode uncovers Richard’s relationships with women, particularly Magda the dentist.

Episode 4 traces how Richard, who became a God for his disciples, turned cruel. His manipulation and their boundless devotion lead to drastic forest rituals and two deaths. The reporters try to reconstruct what happened in the woods near Český Šternberk using all available testimonies.

Episode 5 investigates Richard’s death and its effect on his community. Slowly, his followers begin to wake up, but fear remains. Can they ever forget? What made Richard such a successful, dangerous and hateful manipulator? The reporters looks for answers in his home village and from his father.

A final bonus episode looks at the psychology behind the phenomenon of cults. Experts provide insight into the topic of manipulation, cult mentality and whether some people are more susceptible to becoming cult leaders and cult followers.

We will be presenting the project at Prix Bohemia Radio!

When: Thursday 23^rd October 2025 | 10:25 – 10:45 | listening session
Where: Film hall, Arts Centre UP
Entrance: Free admission with accreditation

Look at the detailed program of the listening session.

All podcasts are available here.