Last Update on the Left - Episode 1: Lord Rael Revisited

Released on April 21, 2025

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of "Last Update on the Left," hosts Henry Zabrowski and Ed Larson embark on a journey to revisit and update listeners on intriguing topics previously covered by "The Last Podcast on the Left." This new series aims to delve deeper into past subjects, providing fresh insights and developments. The premiere episode focuses on the enigmatic cult leader, Lord Rael, a figure the hosts originally explored over a decade ago.

Background on Lord Rael

Real Identity and Early Life

Lord Rael, whose real name is Raymond Howard (later adopting the alias Raymond Elwood Lear), emerged as a controversial figure with claims of divine authority. Before his transformation into Lord Rael, Raymond was involved with the Guardian Angels, a vigilant group established in Chicago during the 1970s.

Notable Quote:

[02:13] Ed Larson: "Raymond Lear is actually not his real name."

[02:19] Henry Zabrowski: "Is it Raymond Elwood Lear?"

Formation of the Cult

Raymond's descent into cult leadership began around 2011-2012 when he proclaimed himself the Messiah, asserting control over natural phenomena like weather. His initial foray into online platforms, primarily Facebook during its early mainstream usage, facilitated the growth of his following. The cult, though initially small, expanded through strategic infiltration of Raymond's Facebook groups, allowing the hosts to gather internal information about his operations.

Notable Quote:

[02:29] Ed Larson: "We found out his real name is Raymond."

Timeline of Lord Rael's Activities

Move to Baja California

Facing legal challenges in the United States, including a warrant for his arrest related to past criminal activities (such as kidnapping his ex-girlfriend and assaulting his mother), Lord Rael relocated to Baja California, Mexico, where his cult continued to grow albeit under strained conditions.

Notable Quote:

[12:19] Henry Zabrowski: "Cabo's incredible, though. I mean, if you're going to go to a place for a cult, Cabo is."

Expansion into Jerusalem

In 2016, Lord Rael's cult moved to Jerusalem, seeking validation for their Messiah claims through religious prophecies. They interpreted astronomical events, like a heart-shaped sunspot and a blood moon, as divine signs affirming their mission.

Notable Quote:

[26:15] Henry Zabrowski: "Okay, that's good. Yeah, that's my favorite. For what must be done, must be done."

Torah Codes and "The Return of Christ"

Lord Rael authored a book titled "The Return of Christ", which heavily emphasizes Torah codes—a form of numerology believed to reveal hidden messages within the Hebrew scriptures. The book claims that these codes validate Rael's messianic status and correct alleged inaccuracies in modern Bible translations.

Notable Quote:

[27:28] Henry Zabrowski: "This is the official blurb of the Return of Christ."

Introduction of God Coin

In 2017, anticipating the rise of cryptocurrency, Lord Rael introduced God Coin, a digital currency purported to be backed by gold and silver. Marketed as the sole authorized currency of the new kingdom, it was intended to eliminate financial crimes through traceable transactions.

Notable Quote:

[35:38] Henry Zabrowski: "This is another scam. All these guys, all these Christians are starting to find the Bitcoin now."

Predictions and COVID-19

Lord Rael made bold predictions, declaring COVID-19 as a sign of the impending end times. Despite his proclamations, the pandemic's prolonged nature did not align with his foretold timeline, leading to skepticism among his followers and a decline in his cult's prominence.

Notable Quote:

[31:00] Ed Larson: "But remember, for you, it's today. For us, it's 1312. Thirteen years ago."

Recent Developments

Arrests and Operational Decline

By 2016, members of the clergy associated with Lord Rael's cult were arrested in Jerusalem for illegal activities, including stalking rabbis and causing public disturbances. These legal troubles, coupled with unmet prophecies, led to a decline in the cult's activities and online presence.

Notable Quote:

[30:31] Henry Zabrowski: "Oh, dude, this is hilarious. The whole preface by Captain Richard Ruff of this whole thing is very, very funny."

Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the cult's operations, disrupting their plans to capitalize on the crisis as a precursor to the apocalypse. The inability to meet predictions and financial strains from failed ventures like God Coin contributed to the cult's diminishing influence.

Notable Quote:

[44:22] Marcus Parks: "Speaking of which, on June 16, 2016, three months after they arrived, members of the clergy were arrested in Jerusalem."

Online Withdrawal and Refund Demands

Post-pandemic, Lord Rael's online presence became sparse, with social media channels inactive for over two years. Disillusioned followers have initiated petition sites demanding refunds for their investments in the cult's ventures, reflecting widespread discontent.

Notable Quote:

[50:10] Henry Zabrowski: "There is a care to some petition site that is trying to getting Raymond Lord Rael Lear to show up or shut up."

Discussion and Insights

Throughout the episode, hosts Zabrowski and Larson dissect the rise and fall of Lord Rael's cult, highlighting the psychological manipulation and strategic use of modern technology in cult operations. They draw parallels between Rael's methodologies and historical cult leaders like Jim Jones, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and skepticism.

Notable Quote:

[29:20] Henry Zabrowski: "Another member of the corrupt media. Yes, we could."

Conclusion

As of the episode's recording in 2025, Lord Rael remains an elusive figure, presumed to be residing in Mexico away from the reach of law enforcement. His cult has largely dissipated, leaving behind a trail of failed prophecies and financially damaged followers. The hosts express anticipation for future updates, promising to continue tracking Rael's movements and activities.

Notable Quote:

[50:46] Ed Larson: "You guys gotta read the return of Christ. I'm looking at this right now. I can't believe we didn't have all."

Final Thoughts

"Last Update on the Left" successfully revives interest in the Lord Rael saga, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the cult's history, ideological shifts, and eventual decline. Through detailed analysis and engaging discussions, Zabrowski and Larson shed light on the mechanisms of cult leadership and the enduring human fascination with charismatic figures.