Moms and Mysteries: A True Crime Podcast
Two Florida moms, hundreds of mysteries, and one obsession: 'How did this happen?' Mandy and Melissa bring you twice-a-week deep dives into true crime—from Florida's most bizarre cases to infamous mysteries worldwide—all with the warmth, wit, and dark humor of two friends who've been hooked on mysteries since childhood. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.
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The Murder of Lauren Burk (Revisited)
12/25/2025
The Murder of Lauren Burk (Revisited)
This week, we are revisiting our most downloaded episode of the year: the heartbreaking case of Lauren Burk. In March 2008, the brutal murder of this 18-year-old Auburn University student shattered a community and left a family searching for answers in a case that is as tragic as it is controversial. Lauren was a bright, promising freshman who was abducted at gunpoint from her campus, robbed, and shot before she bravely jumped from a moving car in a desperate attempt to save her life. Her story is one of unimaginable terror, but also of incredible courage in her final moments. The investigation led police to Courtney Lockhart, an Iraq War veteran whose life had taken a dark turn after returning home. His confession painted a disturbing picture of a man pushed to the edge, but was it the full story? We dive into the complexities of the case, from the initial crime to the controversial trial that followed, where a judge overrode a unanimous jury recommendation for life in prison and sentenced Lockhart to death. Join us as we take a second look at the case that resonated so deeply with our listeners. We explore the devastating impact of Lauren’s murder, the questions surrounding her killer's mental state, and the unique legal proceedings that still spark debate today.
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[Wrongful Conviction] The Ten-Minute Murder: The Wrongful Conviction of Oscar Slater
12/23/2025
[Wrongful Conviction] The Ten-Minute Murder: The Wrongful Conviction of Oscar Slater
In 1908 Glasgow, 82-year-old Marion Gilchrist was brutally murdered in her home during a ten-minute window while her maid was out. There was no forced entry, and the only thing missing was a single diamond brooch. The police quickly zeroed in on Oscar Slater, a German-Jewish immigrant with a gambling habit, and built a case around him with flimsy evidence and coached witnesses. Despite a weak case, Slater was convicted and sentenced to death, a sentence later commuted to life in prison. After a nearly 20-year fight for justice, championed by Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Slater was finally exonerated. But the question remains: if Slater didn't do it, who did? New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: patreon.com/momsandmysteries Visit our website: momsandmysteries.com #TrueCrime #Podcast #MomsAndMysteries #OscarSlater #MarionGilchrist #UnsolvedMysteries #HistoricalCrime #WrongfulConviction #Scotland
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NXIVM: Justice + Allison After NXIVM (Part 2)
12/18/2025
NXIVM: Justice + Allison After NXIVM (Part 2)
The polished facade of NXIVM has shattered, and in Part 2, we take you inside the federal courthouse where its leaders finally face justice. We explore the harrowing trial of Keith Raniere, built on the brave testimony of the women who escaped his control. From the secret master-slave sorority known as DOS to the shocking details of branding, blackmail, and psychological abuse, the full truth of the cult is laid bare. We cover the verdicts, the sentences, and the downfall of the man who called himself “Vanguard.” But what happens after the headlines fade? To discuss the case’s complex legacy, we are joined by a special guest: Natalie, the host of the popular podcast “Allison After NXIVM.” She shares her unique insights into the story, the people involved, and the long road to recovery for those who lived through it. Find more information about "Allison After NXIVM" Thank you to this week's sponsors! IQBAR is offering our special podcast listeners 20% off all IQBAR products—including the sampler pack—plus FREE shipping. Text MOMS to 64000. Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details. Give the gift of confidence this holiday season with Nutrafol. Right now, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription plus free shipping when you go to and use promo code MOMS. It’s time to get your own personal stylist with DailyLook. Head to to take your style quiz and use code MOMS for 50% off your first order. #truecrime #truecrimepodcast #momsandmysteries #nxivm #keithraniere #trial #dos #allisonafternxivm #justice #cult New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website:
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NXIVM: The Promise of Empowerment (Part 1)
12/16/2025
NXIVM: The Promise of Empowerment (Part 1)
Imagine thinking you signed up for a self-improvement course, only to wake up inside a secret hierarchy where starvation, blackmail, and branding were sold as empowerment. This is the story of NXIVM, the so-called leadership program that unraveled into one of the most disturbing criminal enterprises in modern history. In Part 1, we pull back the curtain on how Keith Raniere, a man who called himself "Vanguard," and his partner Nancy Salzman built a multi-million dollar empire on the promise of human potential. We explore the early days of their Executive Success Programs (ESP), the manipulative techniques used to lure in thousands of followers—including celebrities and business leaders—and the slow, deliberate process of indoctrination. How did a group that started with corporate retreats and PowerPoint presentations devolve into a destructive cult? We trace the origins of the abuse, the creation of a master-slave sorority, and the psychological tactics that kept its members loyal, even as the darkness closed in. Thank you to this week's sponsors! Find gifts so good you'll want to keep them with Quince! Go to for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Head to right now to shop all things home. #truecrime #truecrimepodcast #momsandmysteries #nxivm #keithraniere #cult #nancysalzman #selfhelp #esp #vanguard New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website:
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The Impossible Murder of Julia Wallace
12/11/2025
The Impossible Murder of Julia Wallace
In 1931 Liverpool, a bizarre phone call sent William Herbert Wallace on a wild goose chase across the city. The caller, a man named "Qualtrough," had left a message for him at his chess club, asking him to meet at a non-existent address. When William returned home, he found his wife, Julia, brutally murdered in their parlor. The house was locked, there were no signs of forced entry, and the timeline seemed impossibly tight. Police immediately suspected William, believing the phone call was a ruse to create a fake alibi. He was quickly arrested, tried, and convicted, only to have the verdict overturned in an unprecedented move by the Court of Criminal Appeal. For nearly a century, the case has remained one of Britain’s greatest unsolved mysteries. Was William a cunning killer who almost got away with it, or an innocent man framed by a phantom? New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #MomsAndMysteries #JuliaWallace #UnsolvedMysteries #HistoricalCrime #Liverpool #LockedRoomMystery
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The Body in the Basement: The Murder of James Carroll
12/09/2025
The Body in the Basement: The Murder of James Carroll
When police responded to a domestic dispute call at a Victorian home in Louisville, Kentucky, they stumbled into a house of horrors. The fight between lovers Jeffrey Mundt and Joseph Banis led them to a gruesome discovery in the basement: the body of James Carroll, who had been stabbed and shot, his body hidden inside an airtight container buried beneath the floor. The investigation unraveled a dark story of a love triangle fueled by meth, jealousy, and counterfeit cash. As Jeffrey and Joseph turned on each other, each painting the other as the mastermind, detectives were left to piece together what really happened. Was it a robbery gone wrong, a crime of passion, or something even more sinister? This is the twisted story of a murder that exposed the dark secrets hidden within a historic home. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #MomsAndMysteries #JamesCarroll #Louisville #KentuckyCrime #Murder #LoveTriangle
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Project X: The Birthday Party That Caused a Riot
12/04/2025
Project X: The Birthday Party That Caused a Riot
In 2012, a 16-year-old girl in a quiet Dutch town made a simple mistake: she accidentally set her Facebook birthday party invitation to “public.” Within days, the invite went viral, attracting tens of thousands of RSVPs and becoming known online as “Project X Haren.” While the birthday girl and her family fled, thousands of strangers descended on the small town, ready to party. What started as a digital joke quickly spiraled into a real-world riot. Fireworks, flipped cars, and clashes with police turned the night into a scene of chaos that made international headlines. This is the unbelievable true story of how one click of a button unleashed the power of the internet and turned a quiet Sweet 16 into one of the most infamous parties in European history. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueStory #Podcast #ProjectXHaren #FacebookFail #Viral #Riot #Netherlands #SocialMedia
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The Rooftop Robber: The Wild Story of Jeffrey Manchester
12/02/2025
The Rooftop Robber: The Wild Story of Jeffrey Manchester
In 1998, a polite and oddly courteous criminal known as "Roofman" began a crime spree across nine states, targeting mostly McDonald's restaurants. Jeffrey Manchester, a former Army paratrooper, would cut holes in the roofs of buildings, wait for employees to arrive, and then rob them at gunpoint—after politely telling them to grab a jacket before locking them in the freezer. After being caught and sentenced to 45 years, he escaped prison by hiding under a truck. For six months, he lived inside the walls of a Toys "R" Us in Charlotte, North Carolina, surviving on baby food and entertaining himself with remote-controlled cars. He even started a new life, complete with a girlfriend and a church community who knew him as "John Zorn." This is the unbelievable true story of the criminal who turned a toy store into his personal hideout and the bizarre double life he led before his final capture. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #JeffreyManchester #Roofman #RooftopRobber #ToysRUs #CharlotteNC #CrimeSpree #PrisonEscape
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Nicole Sanchez: A Sister's Fight for Justice
11/27/2025
Nicole Sanchez: A Sister's Fight for Justice
In September 1999, 17-year-old Nicole Sanchez was a talented singer with a contagious laugh and big dreams of becoming a veterinary assistant. But her life was brutally cut short by her 23-year-old boyfriend, Lionel Villarreal, in a horrifying act of intimate partner violence. After just four months of dating, Nicole had decided to end the controlling relationship. That weekend, she was shot and killed. Lionel claimed it was a suicide, but the evidence told a different story. The single gunshot wound was a deliberate, humiliating act of aggression. He was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to what the court called "life," but in Michigan, that could mean parole in just 20 years. For over two decades, Nicole's family has lived with the devastating loss, while her killer has been planning his future. This is the story of a vibrant young life stolen too soon and the relentless fight her sister has waged to keep a dangerous man behind bars and to ensure that Nicole's story is never forgotten. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #NicoleSanchez #JusticeForNicole #DomesticViolence #DatingViolence #SaginawMichigan #LionelVillarreal #EndDV
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Kelsey Berreth: The Thanksgiving Murder Plot
11/25/2025
Kelsey Berreth: The Thanksgiving Murder Plot
On Thanksgiving Day 2018, 29-year-old mother Kelsey Berreth vanished from her Woodland Park, Colorado home, leaving behind her 1-year-old daughter and a batch of unbaked cinnamon rolls. The last trace of her was a bizarre series of texts and a phone pinging 800 miles away in Idaho. Her fiancé, Patrick Frazee, claimed they had broken up and that she had left voluntarily. But Kelsey's family knew the devoted mother would never abandon her child. As investigators dug deeper, they uncovered a story far more sinister than a simple disappearance. The investigation led them to Krystal Lee Kenney, a nurse from Idaho with a secret, decade-long relationship with Patrick. Her chilling confession revealed a gruesome murder plot, a brutal crime scene cleanup, and a calculated cover-up. Patrick had bludgeoned Kelsey to death with a baseball bat while their infant daughter was in the next room, all because she refused to give him full custody. This is the story of a holiday turned horrific, a secret affair that ended in murder, and the relentless pursuit of justice for Kelsey. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #KelseyBerreth #PatrickFrazee #ColoradoCrime #ThanksgivingMurder #KrystalLeeKenney #DomesticViolence #JusticeForKelsey
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When Pranks Turn Deadly
11/20/2025
When Pranks Turn Deadly
Imagine hearing sirens outside your home, stepping onto your porch, and being shot by police—all because of a prank call from a thousand miles away. This is exactly what happened to Andrew Finch in Wichita, Kansas, in a tragic "swatting" incident that shocked the nation. In this episode, we're diving into shocking stories where pranks, online feuds, and marketing stunts spiraled into tragedies. From a $1.50 Call of Duty bet that led to a fatal swatting, to teens throwing a sandbag from an overpass that killed a passenger, to a YouTube stunt where a girlfriend shot her boyfriend through a book—these cases remind us that pranks can have deadly consequences. We also cover the Aqua Teen Hunger Force bomb scare that shut down Boston in 2007, and more stories that prove sometimes, a joke isn't funny at all. These are cautionary tales about the dangers of chasing views, seeking revenge, and underestimating consequences. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: Thank you to this week's sponsors! IQBAR is offering our special podcast listeners 20% off all IQBAR products—including the sampler pack—plus FREE shipping. To get your 20% off, text MOMS to 64000. Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details. #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #PranksGoneWrong #Swatting #AndrewFinch #YouTubePranks #OnlineDanger #DeadlyPranks #TrueCrimeThursday
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Daniel Brophy: "How to Murder Your Husband"
11/18/2025
Daniel Brophy: "How to Murder Your Husband"
Daniel Brophy was a beloved chef and culinary instructor at the Oregon Culinary Institute in Portland. At 63 years old, he was passionate about teaching and loved by his students. On June 2, 2018, Daniel was found shot to death inside his classroom—murdered in the place he loved most. The investigation led police to an unlikely suspect: his wife, Nancy Crampton Brophy, a romance novelist. Years before Daniel's murder, Nancy had written an essay titled "How to Murder Your Husband." In it, she detailed various methods of killing a spouse and getting away with it. Investigators discovered Nancy had purchased gun parts online, taken out life insurance policies on Daniel, and her car was captured on surveillance footage near the culinary school the morning of the murder. In May 2022, Nancy Crampton Brophy was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. This case is a chilling reminder that sometimes, truth is stranger—and darker—than fiction. Thank you to this week's sponsors! Save 25% on your first month of subscription by going to or entering MOMS at checkout. Start your risk-free Greenlight trial today at . New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #DanielBrophy #NancyBrophy #HowToMurderYourHusband #Portland #Oregon #TruthStrangerThanFiction #RomanceNovelist #ChefMurder
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Nikki Cheng Saelee McCain: Husband Charged with Murder
11/13/2025
Nikki Cheng Saelee McCain: Husband Charged with Murder
When Nikki Cheng Saelee McCain vanished in May 2024, her family was devastated. Nikki was born in a refugee camp in Southeast Asia and came to the United States with her family, settling in Seattle. She was a beautiful, bubbly woman who loved to laugh and was always her family's biggest cheerleader. She had a forgiving nature and brought joy to everyone around her. After Nikki vanished, her husband Tyler McCain publicly pleaded for her safe return. He apologized to both families and said he wanted to help find her. But in August 2025, everything changed. Tyler was arrested and charged with Nikki's murder. Prosecutors allege he had a motive to silence Nikki—one that involves a disturbing history and a case that was dismissed when Nikki disappeared. This episode covers Nikki's life, her disappearance, and the shocking developments that led to Tyler's arrest. Nikki is still missing. A $30,000 reward is being offered for information leading to her location. If you have information about Nikki Cheng Saelee McCain, please contact the Shasta County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit at (530) 245-6135 or . Thank you to this week's sponsor! Take control of your life with Skylight Calendar. for $30 off your 15-inch calendar now! New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #NikkiCheng #California #DomesticViolence #MissingPerson #TylerMcCain #JusticeForNikki
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Jane Mixer: The Controversial Conviction
11/11/2025
Jane Mixer: The Controversial Conviction
In 1969, Jane Louise Mixer, a 23-year-old law student at the University of Michigan, was trying to catch a ride home to tell her parents she was engaged to her boyfriend Phil. Jane was an exceptional student—top 10% of her high school class, honor student, debate team member, cheerleader, and voted "best all around girl." She graduated from the University of Michigan in 1968 and enrolled in law school, where she was one of the only female students in the entire program. But Jane never made it home that day. She was found shot and strangled in a cemetery, her belongings eerily arranged beside her. For over 30 years, Jane's case sat frozen in time. Many believed John Norman Collins, a serial killer convicted of murdering another Michigan student, was responsible. But in 2001, DNA testing pointed to a different man: Gary Leiterman, a 62-year-old former nurse. In 2005, Gary was convicted of Jane's murder based on DNA evidence, handwriting analysis, and the fact that he owned a .22 caliber gun. But the conviction was highly controversial. Three scientists later argued that the DNA evidence was likely the result of lab contamination. Gary maintained his innocence until his death in prison on July 4, 2019, at age 76. Was Gary Leiterman truly guilty? Or was Jane Mixer's real killer never caught? Thank you to this week's sponsors! Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to now to shop Wayfair's Black Friday deals for up to 70% off! Sale ends December 7th. Right now, IQBAR is offering our special podcast listeners 20% off all IQBAR products—including the sampler pack—plus FREE shipping. To get your 20% off, text MOMS to 64000. Step into the holiday season with layers made to feel good, look polished, and last— from Quince. Perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself. Go to for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! Right now try your first bag of Kitty Litter for just $14.99 and get a free cat toy at . New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #JaneMixer #Michigan #UniversityOfMichigan #DNAEvidence #WrongfulConviction #ColdCase
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[Unsolved] Cheryl Coker: The Kroger Parking Lot
11/06/2025
[Unsolved] Cheryl Coker: The Kroger Parking Lot
On an ordinary Tuesday morning in October 2018, Cheryl Coker vanished from her suburban Ohio home. Her SUV was found abandoned in a Kroger parking lot with her purse and phone still inside. Cheryl—a bubbly, talkative mom and grandmother who never met a stranger—had not left on her own. For a year and a half, her family searched desperately for answers. Then, in April 2020, her remains were discovered in a wooded area not far from her home. Police believe Cheryl was murdered inside her house before being taken to the location where she was found. The only person of interest? Her husband, Bill Coker. This case explores the heartbreaking disappearance and murder of a devoted mother who was on the verge of starting a new chapter in her life. Despite strong suspicions and an active investigation, no charges have been filed. Cheryl's family is still waiting for justice. If you have any information, please contact the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation at 1-800-282-3784. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #CherylCoker #UnsolvedMurder #Ohio #JusticeForCheryl #RiversideOhio
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A Deadly Inheritance: The Von Stein Murder
11/04/2025
A Deadly Inheritance: The Von Stein Murder
In July 1988, Lieth Von Stein was brutally murdered in his Washington, North Carolina home while his wife Bonnie barely survived the attack. The crime scene looked like a burglary gone wrong—but investigators quickly realized something didn't add up. The house was barely disturbed, nothing of value was taken, and the violence was shockingly personal. As detectives dug deeper, they uncovered a conspiracy that seemed ripped from a fantasy game. Lieth's stepson Chris and his college friends had been playing Dungeons & Dragons obsessively, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality. The motive? A $2 million inheritance. The plan? Orchestrated by college kids who thought they could get away with murder. This case explores how greed, entitlement, and obsession led to one of North Carolina's most shocking family murders. From the brutal attack to the investigation that exposed a twisted plot, this is the story of when fantasy became fatal reality. Thank you to this week's sponsors: New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: patreon.com/momsandmysteries Visit our website: momsandmysteries.com #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #LiethVonStein #NorthCarolina #FamilyMurder #Inheritance #DungeonsAndDragons
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Absurd Lawsuits: Scams, Frauds, and Greed
10/30/2025
Absurd Lawsuits: Scams, Frauds, and Greed
Some crimes are violent, some are tragic, and some are just so absurd that they make you lose a little faith in humanity. Today we're diving into lawsuits so wild, so petty, and so downright unbelievable, you'll think we made them up. First up: the Wendy's finger fraud. In March 2005, Anna Ayala claimed she found a human finger in her chili. The story made national headlines, Wendy's stock plummeted, and America lost its appetite for fast food. But the finger was planted—Anna thought she could outsmart the legal system and sue for millions. She was wrong. We also cover the man who sued himself, the guy who demanded $67 million from a laundromat over a lost pair of pants, and more cases that prove greed and audacity know no bounds. This episode is a wild ride through the most frivolous, bizarre, and criminal lawsuits in American history. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #WendysFingerFraud #AbsurdLawsuits #AnnaAyala #FastFoodScam #FrivolousLawsuits
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Janie Ballard: A Daughter's Deadly Greed
10/28/2025
Janie Ballard: A Daughter's Deadly Greed
When a friend found 58-year-old Janie Ballard stabbed over 70 times in her Little Rock, Arkansas home on September 13, 2003, investigators immediately suspected her own daughter, Leslie, and Leslie's much older husband, Mike McCool. But how did a shy, successful young woman from a prominent family become capable of such unthinkable violence? Leslie had grown up with every advantage—private school, college degrees, a job at the family printing business, and a condo bought by her parents. But after meeting Mike, a twice-divorced bodybuilder 22 years her senior with a violent criminal past, Leslie transformed completely. The more her parents disapproved, the deeper she fell under his control. When Janie cut Leslie out of her will, the relationship turned deadly. This case explores how manipulation, greed, and toxic family dynamics led to one of Arkansas's most shocking matricides. A mother who feared her own daughter—and was right to be afraid. Thank you to this week's sponsors! Get organized, refreshed, and ready for the holidays for way less. Head to right now to shop all things home. Little Spoon is the mealtime hack parents can’t stop talking about. Try their no-prep, nutrient-packed meals and snacks for babies, toddlers, and big kids. Get 50% off your first online order at with code MOMS at checkout. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: patreon.com/momsandmysteries Visit our website: momsandmysteries.com #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #JanieBallard #Arkansas #Matricide #FamilyMurder
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Science Gone Wrong: The Bizarre and Terrifying Experiments History Forgot
10/23/2025
Science Gone Wrong: The Bizarre and Terrifying Experiments History Forgot
Science is supposed to cure disease and improve life, but sometimes confidence goes off the rails. Today, we are taking you on a tour through history’s wildest moments when science went completely off the rails, including incidents where confidence reached levels of blowing up a dead whale, dropping cats out of planes, and poisoning an entire generation. Join us as we explore the terrifying line between discovery and disaster. Join us as we dive into bizarre and unethical experiments, from psychology horror shows that spiraled out of control to so-called "miracle" substances turned deadly. Join us as we discuss the chilling details of the Radium Girls, whose agonizing sacrifice ultimately forced the development of crucial occupational health and safety laws. Join us as we unpack the dark lessons learned from the infamous Stanford Prison Experiment. This episode proves that sometimes, what we don't know can truly hurt us. Thank you to this week's sponsors! To explore coverage, visit . Eligibility restrictions apply. Visit for more info. Stop cooking with toxic cookware, and upgrade to Our Place today. Visit and use code MOMS for 10% off sitewide. With a 100-day risk-free trial, free shipping and returns, you can experience this game-changing cookware with zero risk.
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The Krugersdorp Killings: A Prophet's Cult
10/21/2025
The Krugersdorp Killings: A Prophet's Cult
In 2016, a small South African community was rocked by a series of brutal murders orchestrated by a woman who claimed to speak directly to God. Cecilia Steyn manipulated her followers into committing unspeakable acts, all while maintaining the facade of a devout Christian. This is the story of the Krugersdorp Killings—where faith became a weapon and devotion turned deadly.What started as a church group became one of South Africa's most shocking cult cases. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #CultCrime #SouthAfrica #Krugersdorp
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The Piketon Massacre: New Trials, New Sentences—An Update on the Rhoden Family Murders
10/16/2025
The Piketon Massacre: New Trials, New Sentences—An Update on the Rhoden Family Murders
We are revisiting one of the most brutal and complex crimes we have ever covered: The Pike County Massacre, also known as the Rhoden Family Murders. Six years ago, we first discussed the shocking event where eight members of the Rhoden family—four adults, three young men, and a teenage boy—were executed at four different homes in rural Ohio on the same night. At the time of our original episode in 2019, the Wagner family had just been arrested. Now, years later, the trials and sentencing of the four members of the Wagner family are complete, and we are bringing you a comprehensive update on the fate of George Wagner IV, Jake Wagner, Angela Wagner, and Billy Wagner. In this update, we detail the chilling motive that led to the execution-style murders: Custody and Obsession: The motive was centered on a heated custody battle over a young child shared by killer Jake Wagner and victim Hanna May Rhoden. The Plea Deals: We discuss the shocking plea deal struck by Jake Wagner, who pled guilty to all eight murders to spare his mother and father from the death penalty. The Sentences: We cover the emotional and tense courtroom proceedings that led to the sentences for all four family members, including the life without parole sentences handed down. The Unanswered Questions: While justice has been served in the eyes of the law, we still explore the lingering questions surrounding the planning, the execution, and the sheer ruthlessness required to wipe out an entire family. Join us as we close the chapter on this dark episode in Ohio's history, examining the convictions, the sentences, and the final search for peace for the surviving Rhoden family members. Thank you to this week’s sponsors! Whatever challenges you’re facing, Grow Therapy is here to help. Sessions average about $21 with insurance and some pay as little as $0, depending on their plan. Visit today to get started. Availability and coverage vary by state and insurance plan. Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now! Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at . To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit . Check-out to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more.
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[Unsolved] Who Killed Ronni Chasen? Hollywood's Mystery
10/14/2025
[Unsolved] Who Killed Ronni Chasen? Hollywood's Mystery
In 2010, Hollywood publicist Ronni Chasen was driving home from a movie premiere when she was shot multiple times in her Mercedes. The high-profile murder sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, and the investigation took bizarre turns—including a suspect who died by suicide before he could be questioned. Was it a professional hit, a random robbery, or something else entirely?Hollywood's most baffling unsolved murder remains a mystery. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #Hollywood #UnsolvedMystery #RonniChasen
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Jesse Baird & Luke Davies: Cop Turned Killer
10/09/2025
Jesse Baird & Luke Davies: Cop Turned Killer
When Australian TV presenter Jesse Baird and his partner Luke Davies disappeared in February 2024, the investigation led to a shocking suspect: a serving NSW police officer. This case exposed the dangers of domestic violence, abuse of power, and the devastating consequences when those sworn to protect become predators. A story that gripped Australia and raised urgent questions about police accountability. When the person meant to protect you is the one you should fear most. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #Australia #DomesticViolence #PoliceAccountability If you or someone you know needs help, please use these resources: Australia (Domestic/Dating Violence Hotline): 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) US: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) Thank you to this week’s sponsors! Simplify your kids' mealtimes. Go to: and enter our code MOMS at checkout to get 50% OFF your first Little Spoon order. Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now! Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at . To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit . Check-out to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more. Sources: 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
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Mindy Kassotis: The Navy JAG Murder Mystery
10/07/2025
Mindy Kassotis: The Navy JAG Murder Mystery
In December 2022, a horrific discovery in the woods of Rice Borough, Georgia, shocked the nation: the dismembered torso of 40-year-old Mindy Kassotis. The victim was the wife of Nicholas Kassotis, a decorated Navy JAG officer, Georgetown law graduate, and a man who lived a profound double life. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Follow us on Instagram: @momsandmysteries Join our Patreon: Visit our website: #TrueCrime #Podcast #FloridaMoms #Military #Navy #JAG #MindyKassotis Thank you to this week’s sponsors! Boll & Branch makes upgrading your bed easier than ever with curated Bundles for a sanctuary of comfort. For a limited time get 20% off Bed Bundles, plus free shipping and returns, at . Take care of your liver today! Save 25% on your first month of subscription by going to or entering MOMS at checkout.
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The TikTok Murder Pipeline: DV4D Runaway Victims, and the Cost of Viral Fame
10/02/2025
The TikTok Murder Pipeline: DV4D Runaway Victims, and the Cost of Viral Fame
The pursuit of viral fame on TikTok has created a dark undercurrent in the world of true crime. This episode exposes the alarming pattern of TikTok stars hiding violent reality behind their polished online personas, leading to shocking consequences. We examine crimes intertwined with the app, some happening right now in 2025. We dive into the chilling, developing case of musician DV4D(David Anthony Burke). His rise to fame with the hit song "Romantic Homicide" was shattered when the decomposed body of 15-year-old runaway Celeste Rivas Hernandez was found in his Tesla in the Hollywood Hills. Viral Lives, Violent Ends: Other TikTok True Crimes D4vd's story is not an isolated incident. The pressure to maintain a perfect online image has driven others to commit unthinkable acts: JinnKid (Ali Abulaban): The double murder committed by influencer Ali Abulaban (JinnKid). He used a listening app on his five-year-old daughter's iPad to spy on his estranged wife, Ana, before executing her and her friend, Rayburn Barron. The Bukhari Murders: The ruthless blackmail and double murder plot involving UK mother-daughter TikTok duo Mahek Bukhari and Ansreen Bukhari. They killed two victims, Saqib Hussain and Hashim Ijazuddin, to protect Mahek's influencer career and their reputation. Sarah Grace Patrick: The manipulative case of a 17-year-old who used TikTok to post grieving videos after allegedly murdering her own parents, all while secretly pitching her family's tragedy to true crime influencers and bloggers. This episode examines how technology has become a double-edged sword, creating new motives for murder and giving people tools for manipulation and deception. Thank you to this week’s sponsors! Right now IQBAR is offering our special podcast listeners 20% off all IQBAR products—including the sampler pack—plus FREE shipping. Just Text MOMS to 64000. Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details. Your happiness is Skylight’s happiness, so if in 120 days you are not 100% thrilled with your purchase, you can return it for a full refund. No questions asked. Right now, Skylight is offering our listeners $30 off their 15 inch Calendars by going to . Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now! Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at . To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit . Check-out to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more.
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MURDER: Thabo Bester: The Facebook Rapist and the Doctor Who Helped Him Escape Prison
09/30/2025
MURDER: Thabo Bester: The Facebook Rapist and the Doctor Who Helped Him Escape Prison
The official story was that convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester died in a South African prison fire on May 3, 2022, but the truth was far more shocking: he had faked his own death with a stolen corpse and easily walked out of a maximum security prison. Known as "The Facebook Rapist" for luring women with fake international modeling opportunities, Bester was serving a 30-year sentence for the rape and robbery of two women and the murder of his girlfriend, Nomfundo Tyhulu, in 2011. In this episode, we unravel the chaotic details of his escape and his life on the run: The Fake Death: An investigation into the cell fire and the burned remains raised immediate suspicion. The body used to stage his death was later confirmed to have died before the fire from blunt force trauma to the head, and DNA did not match Bester . The Accomplice: Dr. Nandipha Magudumana (Dr. Nandi): Celebrity physician Dr. Nandi, who claimed to be Bester's customary law wife, was his essential partner in crime. She initially collected the body and was later spotted shopping with Bester, aiding his life as a fugitive. She is a glamorous doctor who had it all, but chose a criminal life as a "cold-blooded accomplice". Life as a Fugitive: Before his escape was confirmed, Bester was running multiple scam companies from prison. After walking out, he continued his fraudulent schemes with Dr. Nandi, meeting clients and living in a rented mansion until their arrest in Tanzania in April 2023. This incredible true crime saga is also the subject of the Netflix docuseries, Beauty and the Bester. Thank you to this week’s sponsors! Take care of your liver with Dose! Save 25% on your first month of subscription by going to or entering MOMS at checkout. Keep it classic and cozy this fall with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now! Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at . To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit . Check-out to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more. Sources:
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The Killing of Professor Dan Markel: The Adelson Family's Web of Deceit (Part 2)
09/25/2025
The Killing of Professor Dan Markel: The Adelson Family's Web of Deceit (Part 2)
In the gripping second part of the Daniel Markel case we delve deeper into the intricate web of deceit surrounding the murder-for-hire plot. This episode focuses on the trials of the two masterminds behind the shocking crime: Charlie and Donna Adelson. Charlie Adelson's Trial: The episode begins with the conviction of Charlie Adelson. The state's case was built on compelling evidence, including audio recordings from a Miami restaurant where Charlie discussed killing a blackmailer or a police officer. The money trail connecting the Adelson family's dental practice to Katie Magbanua, the ex-girlfriend of the hitman, also played a crucial role. Charlie took the stand in his own defense, claiming he was being extorted by the hitmen. This defense was ultimately not believed by the jury, leading to his conviction for first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation. Donna Adelson's Arrest and Trial: Just seven days after her son's conviction, the matriarch, Donna Adelson, was arrested at Miami International Airport as she and her husband, Harvey, were attempting to flee to Vietnam, a non-extradition country. Key evidence against her included monitored phone calls where she discussed fleeing the country and a recording where she was overheard mulling over extradition policies and reading text messages from her daughter, Wendi. During her trial, testimony from her fellow inmates revealed her attempts to orchestrate false testimony and her admission of her role in the murder. The verdict was unforgettable, as Donna gasped dramatically when she was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation, becoming the fifth person convicted in Dan's murder. The Family's Web of Lies: The podcast also uncovers new details about the involvement of other family members. Wendi Adelson, Dan's ex-wife, testified under immunity but was confronted with her past inconsistencies about her knowledge of the murder plot. It was also revealed that Donna and Wendi had a deep knowledge of Dan's daily routine, and Wendi's ex-boyfriend testified that she once mentioned Charlie looking into a hitman for $15,000. Legacy and Justice: The episode concludes with the powerful impact of the case on Dan Markel's parents, Ruth and Phil Markel. Their advocacy led to a new law and a long-awaited reunion with their grandsons. Thank you to this week's sponsors! Join the more than 3 million families who have chosen K12, and empower your student to reach their full potential now. There is still time to enroll for this school year! Go to today to find a tuition-free K12-Powered School near you and enroll now. Boll & Branch makes upgrading your bed easier than ever with curated Bundles for a sanctuary of comfort. For a limited time get 20% off Bed Bundles, plus free shipping and returns, at . Whatever challenges you’re facing, Grow Therapy is here to help. Sessions average about $21 with insurance and some pay as little as $0 depending on their plan. to get started. Availability and coverage vary by state and insurance plan. Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit . Check-out to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more. Sources: Dan Markel Murder January 17, 2018 February 26, 2006 , November 15, 2023 July 29, 2022 May 30, 2022 June 20, 2018 April 21, 2022 Sept. 20, 2019 Oct 11, 2019 Nov 6, 2023 Dec 12, 2023 Oct. 30, 2023 (Jeff, June, testimonies) (Rob and Wendi’s testimonies) https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/bump-operation-led-to-phone-calls-restaurant-meeting-jurors-told-in-trial-for-murder-of-law-prof-markel . .
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The Killing of Professor Dan Markel: A Family Feud Turns Deadly (Part 1)
09/23/2025
The Killing of Professor Dan Markel: A Family Feud Turns Deadly (Part 1)
In this episode, we delve into the shocking murder of Harvard-educated law professor Dan Markel. His life was cut short in a targeted hit that investigators believe was a murder-for-hire plot. This is more than just a true crime drama; it's a story of a devoted father and brilliant legal scholar caught in a bitter family feud that spiraled into something unthinkable. Dan's divorce from his ex-wife, Wendi Adelson, became an all-out war over the custody of their two young sons and relocation to South Florida. You'll hear about the powerful and controlling Adelson family, specifically Wendy's parents, Donna and Harvey, and her brother, Charlie, who had an "obsession" with their hatred of Dan. As the story unfolds, you’ll discover disturbing emails from Donna Adelson detailing a plan to manipulate Dan, including using his Jewish faith against him, and even joking about dressing the children in Hitler Youth uniforms. The police investigation quickly turned to the Adelson family after Wendy made some unusual comments and her boyfriend, Jeff Lacasse, urged them to look into her family. The timing of the murder, which took place just after a hearing on family control was set, was not lost on investigators, who saw a clear motive for murder. After his death, Wendy quickly moved their children to Miami and cut off contact with Dan's parents. Join us for Part 1 of this unbelievable case as we explore the chilling details that lead to the death of Dan Markel. The second part of this episode is available now on and will be available everywhere on Thursday. Thank you to this week's sponsors! Keep it classic and cozy this fall cool—with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. See thicker, stronger, faster-growing hair with less shedding in just 3-6 months with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to and enter the promo code MOMS. Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit . Check-out to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more. Sources: Dan Markel Murder January 17, 2018 February 26, 2006 , November 15, 2023 July 29, 2022 May 30, 2022 June 20, 2018 April 21, 2022 Sept. 20, 2019 Oct 11, 2019 Nov 6, 2023 Dec 12, 2023 Oct. 30, 2023 (Jeff, June, testimonies) (Rob and Wendi’s testimonies) https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/bump-operation-led-to-phone-calls-restaurant-meeting-jurors-told-in-trial-for-murder-of-law-prof-markel . .
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The Art of the STEAL: When Passion Drives Crime
09/18/2025
The Art of the STEAL: When Passion Drives Crime
This week, we discuss a series of "intellectual crimes" in which the stolen objects were more valuable for their history and status than for their resale price. And stick around for an artsy "Last Thing Before We Go". Thank you to this week's sponsors! Help your liver and save 25% on your first month of subscription by going to or entering MOMS at checkout. Get organized now, with Skylight! Right now, Skylight is offering our listeners $30 off their 15-inch Calendars by going to . Download the free Rakuten App or go to to start saving today. And right now, IQBAR is offering our special podcast listeners twenty percent off all IQBAR products—including the sampler pack—plus FREE shipping. To get your 20% text MOMS to 64000. Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details. The Boston Public Library's "Lost" Art: We dive into the bizarre case of two priceless artworks—an Albrecht Dürer engraving and a Rembrandt van Rijn etching—that went missing from one of the country's most prestigious libraries. The disappearance caused a media uproar and led to the resignation of the library's president . But in a twist, the art was never stolen; it was just in the wrong spot for an entire year. The Man Who Loved Books Too Much: We explore the story of John Charles Gilkey, a man driven by intellectual vanity who used stolen credit card numbers to amass a collection of rare books worth over $200,000. Gilkey wasn't in it for the money; he simply wanted to appear to be a sophisticated intellectual . His obsessive "bibliokleptomania" forced the rare book community to tighten security and share information on thefts. The Notorious Map Thief: Next, we cover Edward Forbes Smiley III, a charming and respected rare map dealer whose financial troubles led him to a life of crime. Using an X-Acto blade, he would carefully slice rare maps out of centuries-old atlases from institutions like Yale and Harvard. We reveal how a single misplaced blade led to his downfall, exposing his theft of nearly 100 maps . The Notorious Map Thief: Next, we cover Edward Forbes Smiley III, a charming and respected rare map dealer whose financial troubles led him to a life of crime. Using an X-Acto blade, he would carefully slice rare maps out of centuries-old atlases from institutions like Yale and Harvard. We reveal how a single misplaced blade led to his downfall, exposing his theft of nearly 100 maps. Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now! Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at . To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit . Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: Check-out to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more.
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The Real-Life Laura Palmer: The Unsolved Murder of Hazel Drew
09/16/2025
The Real-Life Laura Palmer: The Unsolved Murder of Hazel Drew
On a warm summer night in 1908, 19-year-old Hazel Drew disappeared from Troy, New York. Her body was found days later, and the brutal details of the crime sparked a century-old mystery. Join us as we explore the unsolved murder that inspired the fictional character of Laura Palmer from the cult classic TV series, Twin Peaks. We dive into the bizarre clues, conflicting timelines, and a tangled web of suspects that left investigators with more questions than answers. From the mysterious letters found in her trunk to her complicated secret life, this true crime case has all the elements of a classic whodunit. Listen now to uncover the real-life mystery behind the case and decide for yourself who killed Hazel Drew. Thank you to this week's sponsors! Keep it classic and cozy this fall cool—with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Start your risk-free Greenlight trial today at . Cozify your space with Wayfair’s curated collection of easy, affordable fall updates. From comfy recliners to cozy bedding and autumn decor. Find it all for way less at . Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now! Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at . To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit . Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: Check-out to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more. Sources: ,
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