This week, journalist Joseph L. Flatley joins AP to discuss his book New Age Grifter- an in-depth investigation of a little-known cult and its now deceased leader Gabriel of Urantia. Flatley's freelance journalistic efforts in speaking to and working with former members of the cult, operating as Global Community Communications Alliance, brought to light insights about the man and his UFO-centered religious movement that range from humorous to downright disturbing. His book, the culmination of these efforts, even becomes part of the story as the group and its leader attempted to prevent its release. The book is out in an updated edition now, following somewhat successful attempts to disrupt distribution for the original printing through Feral House Press. 
In conversation, Flatley talks about Gabriel's journey from being a struggling Pittsburgh musician to his discovery of The Urantia Book, and the channeling abilities he claimed to attain during his several personal reinventions. This leads to broader discussions about cults, the nature of belief, and the various forms of exploitation that occurred within GCCA and elsewhere. Perspectives from former members are considered, including those of Gabriel's daughter, revealing the extent of the grift and the human cost; the utopian cult was responsible for traumatic instances of child abuse and forced labor from all members, among other things. In his book and in the interview, Flatley treats the material fairly and soberly paints a portrait of a narcissistic failed musician who built his own private fiefdom- a cult which exists in plain sight but is still largely invisible.
Follow Joseph L. Flatley on substack here: https://substack.com/@lennyflatley
...and be sure to pick up a copy of New Age Grifter: The True Story of Gabriel of Urantia and his Cosmic Family wherever you buy books!