The Radio That Whispered: How a Skeptic Got Trapped

The Radio That Whispered: How a Skeptic Got Trapped Imagine a radio playing on a freezing January morning, its battery compartment empty, on a property with no electricity. This was the scene a meter reader discovered, leading to a multi-year investigation into a cult that preyed on skeptics. What secrets did the property at 4 Vestry Hill Road hold, and how did a methodical dental hygienist become entangled? In this episode, we explore the story of Paula Pruitt, a woman who prided herself on her skepticism, and how she was drawn into Grant Bennett's "The Open Signal" program. We uncover the methods used to attract and control members, from late-night broadcasts to a handwritten protocol for those who wished to leave. Person: Paula Pruitt Date: January 2014 Location: 4 Vestry Hill Road, Brixton County Event: Discovery of a radio playing without power - A transistor radio was found playing on a cinderblock step, tuned to 1190 AM, with an empty battery compartment. - Brenda Dixon, a meter reader with eleven years on her route, reported the anomaly at approximately 9:40 AM. - Paula Pruitt, a dental hygienist with a bowling average of 142, joined The Open Signal gatherings in spring 2007. - The Vestry Hill Road property, a former summer camp, spanned twelve acres and housed roughly twenty core members. - Members followed a "night reception" sleep schedule, rising at 6 AM after only a few hours of sleep between 11 PM and 2-3 AM. To listen to this podcast ad-free and access premium episodes, try our subscription with a 14-day free trial at obomedia.com. © 2026 OBOMEDIA. All rights reserved. This episode and its content (audio, text, and related materials) are the exclusive property of OBOMEDIA and are protected by applicable copyright laws. Reproduction, distribution, editing, or commercial use, in whole or in part, without prior written permission from OBOMEDIA is prohibited. For permissions, licensing, and business inquiries: [email protected].