It is, by some standards, the most successful modern religion.
Discover how Scientology went from the pseudo-medical ideas of an out-of-luck science fiction writer to a religion that counts some of the world's most famous film stars among its believers.



The early life of L. Ron Hubbard
Discovering a talent as a science fiction writer
L. Ron Hubbard's naval career
Moving to Los Angeles and developing a self-help system
The publication of Dianetics, a book that contained "more promises and less evidence per page than any publication since the invention of printing"
L. Ron Hubbard's theory about how the brain worked
Turning Dianetics into a religion
Charging large amounts of money to believers
Making extravagant purchases all over the world
Scientology's legal troubles
Launching the Sea Org
Adding to the doctrine of Scientology
The disappearance and death of L. Ron Hubbard
David Miscavige: a new leader arises
How many Scientologists are there?
Advertising at The Super Bowl
Hollywood Scientologists: Tom Cruise & John Travolta
Criticisms of Scientology
Scientology's tax battle in the United States
What actually is a religion?


Full transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/scientology