Heaven Bent

The Heaven Bent podcast examines evangelical Christian religious groups and charismatic movements. Host Tara Jean Stevens grew up in one such church, in a Pentecostal congregation in Canada. Tara Jean is a morning-show host on Wave 98.3 in Vancouver and the creator of this documentary-style show.

As a child, Tara Jean spent most nights at church and attended her church's school. In 1994, a religious revival called the Toronto Blessing began in a small airport church. It spread worldwide, including to Tara Jean's church. The young girl started speaking in tongues. She shook so much that a man tried to cast a demon out of her.

Tara Jean stopped attending church at age 19. Over two decades later, she decided to investigate these experiences and their history. She now researches similar events in other charismatic organizations and discusses them.

The podcast explains the difference between evangelical and charismatic Christians. Evangelicals believe in salvation through Jesus Christ and share that faith with others. They account for almost 25 percent of the US population. Charismatic Christians also have other beliefs, like the possession of spiritual gifts. They compose 25 percent of Christians worldwide. Charismatic Christians believe some people can speak in tongues, prophesy, and lay hands on others to heal them.

Tara Jean is curious about these notions. She interviews believers, atheists, historians, and scientists. Tara Jean encourages listeners to hear disagreeing perspectives and explore differing beliefs. Was her own revival behavior authentic? She answers that question on the podcast.

The podcast's first season explores the Toronto Blessing and its far-reaching effects. Tara Jean calls revivals a "tidal wave of religious enthusiasm." These events include mass conversions, unusual behaviors, and reports of healing. At this revival, 300 people said supernatural powers gave them silver or gold teeth. Tara Jean plays audio recordings so listeners can experience the events.

Subsequent podcast seasons of the Heaven Bent podcast study other notorious organizations. They include Bethel Church and the International House of Prayer. Are they cults? Can they raise the dead? Tara Jean addresses these and other intriguing questions on Heaven Bent.