In the final episode of our Manson series (really, this is the end), Joe goes for a space walk as we try to keep him tethered to reality, with a closing chapter of conspiracy theories, conclusions and some confirmation bias.

We look at top-secret FBI and CIA programmes enacted to counter the growing number of groups opposing the establishment, including the Black Panthers and the counterculture movement. We also explore the curiously close proximity of Charles Manson and the architect of the CIA’s efforts to control minds, during the years Manson transformed himself into a cult leader.

Could the wider picture that could offer some darker explanations? Or could it be no more than coincidence, in a strange, turbulent period of history?

And with all of this swirling around, we do our best to offer our own conclusions on the entire story.

Send all of your questions, comments, corrections and deep-dive tips to [email protected]

The sources mentioned in this episode are: "You Must Remember Manson" (Podcast) by Karina Longworth;" Helter Skelter: An American Myth" by Lesley Chilcott; "Manson", by Jeff Guinn; "Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders", by Vincent Bugliosi and Curt Gentry, "Chaos: The Truth Behind the Manson Murders", by Tom O'Neill, and CieloDrive.com.