Bound by the Cloak
Bound By the Cloak, a podcast about candid stories that are seldom heard. We dare to discuss the topics that aren’t always easy. to talk about. Join us as we hear from ordinary people with extraordinary experiences. Everyone has a story to tell and we’re here to listen.
info_outline
S4 Episode 8: The Clinical Science Behind Pedophilia
04/10/2024
S4 Episode 8: The Clinical Science Behind Pedophilia
Dr. James Cantor is a psychologist and a leading researcher whose areas of work have focused on sex research. He has spent over 25 years researching various paraphilias, the most notable one being pedophilia. It's a difficult subject to discuss and tackle, but it's one that needs to be addressed socially. We wanted to know exactly what a pedophile is, what makes them do what they do and what can be done to protect children and solve the problem. Dr. Cantor had the answers, and some of them may surprise you. He shares the results of his research into the psychological and neurological factors underlying pedophilia. In our conversation, we discuss the myths and misconceptions surrounding this sensitive issue, the distinction between pedophilia and child sexual abuse, and the importance of destigmatizing individuals struggling with this condition. Through an evidence-based approach, Dr. Cantor also shares potential interventions and support systems for both individuals with pedophilia and society as a whole.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/30746178
info_outline
S4 Episode 7: The History of Policing
03/27/2024
S4 Episode 7: The History of Policing
While discussions about policing often center on present-day controversies, understanding its historical evolution is essential to understand how we got here today. Dr. Gary Potter unravels a timeline of the complexities of policing, shedding light on pivotal moments, ideologies, and societal influences that have shaped its trajectory. From the establishment of the first formal police forces to the challenges of urbanization, industrialization, and social unrest, we explore how policing practices have adapted and transformed in response to our changing society.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/30559058
info_outline
S4 Episode 6: Freedom of Choice
03/13/2024
S4 Episode 6: Freedom of Choice
Should personal choices made outside the workplace be a factor in one's professional work? Can society draw a line between personal freedom and professional accountability? Sarah Juree's life took an unexpected turn when her side hustle collided with her professional career as a teacher. Her story made headlines when she was fired from her teaching position after it was revealed that she had an OnlyFans account. Sarah is a former teacher as well as a mother of twins, a model and digital content creator from Indiana. After her marriage of 13 years ended, she found herself a single mom living in a poverty cycle as a teacher. She created an OnlyFans account, which a local blogger found out and distributed her photos across social media platforms. He got her fired from her teaching job and she lost a career of almost 20 years. She is manifesting her most beautiful self and most beautiful life by reclaiming her body and sexual energy and empowering women to do the same.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/30351133
info_outline
S4 Episode 5: Truth Will Out
02/28/2024
S4 Episode 5: Truth Will Out
At just 17 years old, Jeff Deskovic's life took an unexpected turn when he found himself wrongfully convicted of the rape and murder of his classmate. Despite maintaining his innocence, he spent over 16 years behind bars, enduring the unimaginable hardships of prison life. We spoke to Jeff and uncovered the shocking details of his wrongful conviction and the injustices he faced along the way. But Jeff's story doesn't end with his wrongful conviction. Against all odds, he eventually secured his freedom and became a powerful advocate for criminal justice reform. Through his foundation, The Deskovic Foundation, Jeff works tirelessly to prevent wrongful convictions and provide support to exonerees. Dr. West's journey is more than just a story of scientific achievement, but it's a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the unwavering belief in the potential of one's dreams. Through her groundbreaking work, Dr. West shattered barriers, challenged conventions, and inspired countless individuals to achieve their dreams.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/30145743
info_outline
S4 Episode 4: Plotting the Course
02/14/2024
S4 Episode 4: Plotting the Course
As we celebrate Black History Month and honor the trailblazers who shaped our world, we explore the remarkable life and groundbreaking achievements of Dr. Gladys West, a trailblazing mathematician whose contributions paved the way for modern GPS technology. We spoke to Dr. West’s daughter, Carolyn Oglesby, who continues to educate the public about her mother’s contributions to society. Dr. West's journey is more than just a story of scientific achievement, but it's a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the unwavering belief in the potential of one's dreams. Through her groundbreaking work, Dr. West shattered barriers, challenged conventions, and inspired countless individuals to achieve their dreams.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/29946713
info_outline
S4 Episode 3: Reimagining Policing with David Couper
01/31/2024
S4 Episode 3: Reimagining Policing with David Couper
Against the backdrop of ongoing debates surrounding police accountability, racial justice, and community trust, it’s more important than ever to address the uncomfortable truths surrounding police brutality, shining a spotlight on the systemic issues that continue to perpetuate violence and injustice within our communities. We sat down with David Couper, a seasoned veteran of law enforcement who shared his personal experiences, professional insights, and his profound commitment to fostering positive change. David served over 20 years as the chief of police in Madison, Wisconsin, four years as chief of police in Burnsville, Minnesota. Prior to that, he was a police officer in Edina and Minneapolis, Minnesota. He has graduate degrees from the University of Minnesota and Edgewood College in Madison. After retiring from the police department, became ordained as a priest in the Episcopal Church.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/29726458
info_outline
S4 Episode 2: NYC's Mad Bomber
01/17/2024
S4 Episode 2: NYC's Mad Bomber
Not many know about the Mad Bomber and his trail of terror across New York City in the 1940’s and 50’s. The uncertainty and fear that gripped the city had New Yorkers bracing themselves for the possibility of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Many are also unaware of Dr. James A. Brussel, the father of modern criminal profiling and his role in assisting the authorities in catching the Mad Bomber. In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the author and journalist Michael Cannell and his exploration of the notorious Mad Bomber. Michael unravels this twisted and sinister narrative, examining the mind of a criminal who terrorized New York City for years. He also shares the pivotal role played by Dr. Brussel, who revolutionized criminal investigations and is known to be the father of criminal profiling. Michael is the author of four non-fiction books, including Incendiary: The Psychiatrist, the Mad Bomber and the Invention of Criminal Profiling. Michael has worked as an editor for The New York Times. His writing has appeared in The New Yorker, Sports Illustrated and many other publications.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/29522828
info_outline
S4 Episode 1: Confined - The Stanford Prison Experiment
01/03/2024
S4 Episode 1: Confined - The Stanford Prison Experiment
Join us as we step behind the scenes of one of the most infamous social experiments in history - the Stanford Prison Experiment. We spoke with Rich Yacco, who recounted his experiences as a "prisoner" in the simulated prison environment, shedding light on the blurred lines between authority, abuse, and conformity. In this episode we provide a glimpse into the mind of someone who lived through the Stanford Prison Experiment, unraveling its complexities and leaving us with a deeper understanding of human behavior, the consequences of power dynamics, and the enduring legacy of this groundbreaking study, 52 years later.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/29318808
info_outline
S3 Episode 15: American Truth and Identity
12/20/2023
S3 Episode 15: American Truth and Identity
In this eye-opening episode, we spoke with historian Donald Yacovone to unravel the layers of history taught in American schools. In a candid and thought-provoking conversation, Donald takes us on a journey through time, exposing the untold stories, overlooked perspectives, and hidden chapters that have shaped our nation. Donald Yacovone is an Associate at Harvard University’s Hutchins Center for African and African American Research. His ninth book, Teaching White Supremacy: America's Democratic Ordeal and the Forging of Our National Identity, just came out in paperback through Vintage Books. The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross, co-written with Henry Louis Gates, Jr., won the 2014 NAACP Image Award and he received the W.E.B. Du Bois medal, Harvard’s highest honor in African American studies. He earned a Ph.D. at the Claremont Graduate University, helped edit the Black Abolitionist Papers, and has written widely on abolitionism, gender, African Americans and the Civil War, and American cultural history.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/29161528
info_outline
S3 Episode 14: Birth Order and Personality
12/06/2023
S3 Episode 14: Birth Order and Personality
Where are you in the sibling order - first, middle, last? Regardless of the order, everyone's been curious about the profound impact birth order has on who we are and who we become. After all, in the grand saga of family, every sibling plays a crucial role. In this episode, we go beyond the conventional wisdom, delving into groundbreaking research that explores why birth order captures the collective imagination and how it weaves an intricate narrative into the fabric of our personalities. We sat down with psychologists, Brent Roberts and Rodica Damian, who have conducted a groundbreaking study to unravel the mystery behind birth order and its profound impact on shaping who we are. Join us as we navigate the corridors of family dynamics, psychological influences, and the universal quest to understand what makes us uniquely ourselves.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/28951513
info_outline
S3 Episode 13: Safe Keeping
11/22/2023
S3 Episode 13: Safe Keeping
Description: Recently, big banks like Chase, HSBC and Capital One have started to pull back from safe deposit box services and aren’t offering them for new customers. So, where should you store your valuables? Dave McGuinn has been keeping banks and the valuables that reside within them safe for over 50 years. He is the industry expert when it comes to bank vault and safe deposit security. In this episode, Dave gave us the key to understanding safe deposit services, why banks are trying to eliminate them and some of the most interesting things people have stored in the safe deposit boxes.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/28751493
info_outline
S3 Episode 12: Surviving the Shadows
11/08/2023
S3 Episode 12: Surviving the Shadows
Having faced the harrowing experience of losing a loved one to homicide, Dr. Jan Canty opens up about her personal journey of survival, healing, and transformation. Through her inspiring narrative, she offers profound insights into the human spirit's ability to overcome even the darkest of moments. We spoke with Jan, discussing the challenges she faced, the support that sustained her, and the remarkable ways in which she has channeled her grief into positive change. Jan’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and unwavering strength in the face of the unthinkable. Jan reminds us that, even in the face of life's darkest trials, there is hope, healing, and the potential for a brighter tomorrow.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/28550945
info_outline
S3 Episode 11: Haunted Manhattan (Halloween Special)
10/27/2023
S3 Episode 11: Haunted Manhattan (Halloween Special)
It's time for our annual Halloween special, and this year we had a chance to hang out with Robery Gonyo of Haunted Manhattan! Haunted Manhattan has been providing NYC with it's own brand of haunted history for over 10 years. NYC is a unique place around Halloween and many embark on one of the city's many haunted walking tours. Robert told us all about the beginnings of Haunted Manhattan, how it's different from other haunted walking tour companies and what it's like to actually take a tour. Also, we get to hear a couple of ghost stories! There are also audio clips from the Greenwich Village tour that our team went on this season! Our tour guide was "Professor Clerval" Of course Haunted Manhattan has tours around Halloween, but they also have tours year round! For more info check out their website Book a tour today!
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/28438592
info_outline
S3 Episode 10: After School Satan Club
10/25/2023
S3 Episode 10: After School Satan Club
The After School Satan Club, with its provocative name, is in the hot seat these days. Now, before you conjure images of devilish gatherings and dark rituals, the After School Satan Club is not about worshiping the dark Lord. Rather, it's about enlightening young minds, promoting critical thinking, and exploring alternative perspectives. We're here to uncover the truth, demystify the misconceptions, and give you an inside look at what this club is really all about. We went right to the source and spoke with June Everett, the Satanic Temple's Campaign Director for After School Satan Club. She's a passionate advocate for critical thinking, free speech, and science-based education, and is dedicated to demystifying misconceptions and reshaping our understanding of this thought-provoking project.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/28403720
info_outline
S3 Episode 9: Blood Lust
10/11/2023
S3 Episode 9: Blood Lust
Vampires aren't real, right? From the classic novel Dracula to more modern novels by Anne Rice or even Twilight, vampires have been a part of cultures and folklore from all around the world. What if vampires are real? If someone tells you they're a vampire, do you believe them? There are true crime cases like that of Richard Trenton Chase. Chase never described himself as such, yet his crimes are reminiscent of the vampire archetype. Then there are self-proclaimed vampires that belong to a vampire subculture, which was more prominent in the early 2000's. This week we're joined by Dr. Katherine Ramsland as we discuss Richard Trenton Chase (The Vampire of Sacramento), deinstitutionalization, the vampire subculture and her career. Dr. Katherine Ramsland teaches forensic psychology at DeSales University in Pennsylvania, where she is the Assistant Provost. She has appeared as an expert in criminal psychology on more than 200 crime documentaries and magazine shows, is an executive producer of Murder House Flip, and has consulted forCSI, Bones, and The Alienist. The author of more than 1,500 articles and 69 books, including The Forensic Science of CSI, The Forensic Psychology of Criminal Minds, How to Catch a Killer, The Psychology of Death Investigations, and Confession of a Serial Killer: The Untold Story of Dennis Rader, The BTK Killer, she was co-executive producer for the Wolf Entertainment/A&E four-part documentary based on the years she spent talking with Rader. Ramslandconsults on death investigations, pens a blog for Psychology Today, and is currently writing a fiction series based on a female forensic psychologist who manages a private investigation agency. The first one,I Scream Man, was published in September 2022.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/28283654
info_outline
S3 Episode 8: The Trouble With Schenectady
09/27/2023
S3 Episode 8: The Trouble With Schenectady
Schenectady, NY is a small city that's had a troubled past. Once known as "The City That Lights and Hauls the World", Schenectady has faced a police corruption scandal as well as other tragic events over the years. In the late 90's and early 2000's, Schenectady's Police Dept. was the focus of a federal investigation by the FBI while under the tenure of former police chief Greg Kaczmarek. Author David Bushman was traveling up near Albany, NY when he got a Lyft ride from no other than former police chief Kaczmarek. The two formed a relationship which spurred the writing of his book, Forget It, Jake, It's Schenectady: The True Story Behind "The Place Beyond the Pines." The book reflects on the events that transpired while Kaczmarek was chief of police from 1996 to 2002.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/28153691
info_outline
S3 Episode 7: Beyond the Bars - Reintegration Into Society
09/13/2023
S3 Episode 7: Beyond the Bars - Reintegration Into Society
Life after prison is far from a straightforward path. The formerly incarcerated face the harsh reality of reintegration into society, from finding employment and securing housing to dealing with the societal stigma that often accompanies a criminal record. David Rothenberg's story is one of unwavering commitment to social justice and compassion for individuals caught in the web of the criminal justice system. He founded The Fortune Society in 1967, with a mission to support and empower formerly incarcerated individuals, helping them successfully reintegrate into society. We explore the power of second chances, the importance of education and employment opportunities for the formerly incarcerated, and the transformative impact of restorative justice practices.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/28017315
info_outline
S3 Episode 6: Silent Witnesses - Dead Men Do Tell Tales
08/30/2023
S3 Episode 6: Silent Witnesses - Dead Men Do Tell Tales
Ever wonder what really happens at a crime scene? Barbara Butcher, the second woman ever hired for the role of Death Investigator in New York City, takes us behind the scenes of her riveting investigations, revealing the meticulous attention to detail required to reconstruct the final moments of a person's life. From high-stakes cases to unexpected twists, we explore the gripping tales that have defined Barbara's remarkable career. Join us as she walks us through the intricate process of piecing together clues from the remains of the silent witnesses left behind.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/27888081
info_outline
S3 Episode 5: Jamming with Suzy Hotrod
08/16/2023
S3 Episode 5: Jamming with Suzy Hotrod
Do you know what roller derby is? It's okay if you don't, we've got someone who can definitely tell you all there is to know about it. Roller derby is a sport that many know absolutely nothing about and we're going to change that. It's a fast paced, hard hitting, alternative contact sport that's played all over the world. Since its early beginnings to its modern iteration, which started in 2001, roller derby has always been super inclusive, and this still holds true today! Suzy Hotrod has been playing roller derby with Gotham Roller Derby (GRD) for around 20 years and she's still going strong. Gotham Roller Derby is NYC's roller derby league. They compete locally, nationally and even globally. Suzy has appeared in ESPN Magazine's 2011 body issue, has memorabilia in the Smithsonian and has appeared in a few documentary films. We tracked down Suzy for a chance to learn all we could about roller derby, Suzy herself and see what GRD has been up to recently.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/27766413
info_outline
S3 Episode 4: Wingin’ It - On Air with Toni the Flight Attendant
08/02/2023
S3 Episode 4: Wingin’ It - On Air with Toni the Flight Attendant
Have you ever had a question for a flight attendant that you've always wanted to ask but never had the chance? Well you're in luck, so do we. We caught up with Toni, a flight attendant with her very own blog, "A Wheel in the Sky." We asked Toni about everything from what her typical flight routine is like to the craziest things she's experienced on a flight! She did not disappoint. Toni blogs about work, travel and just life in general. Her blog is a great insight into the world of a profession that doesn't always get the respect it deserves. Be sure to sign the petition for flight attendants to get paid for boarding! Not all flight attendants get paid for boarding, even though it's part of their responsibilities. It's time for that to change!
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/27620028
info_outline
Minisode 6: More About Lily Dale
07/23/2023
Minisode 6: More About Lily Dale
This Minisode is the extended interview with Mandi Shepp from our Lily Dale episode. In this wpisode you'll hear more about the history and culture of Lily Dale, learn which old Hollywood actress would frequent Lily Dale and learn more about what makes Lily Dale so unique. Amanda M. “Mandi” Shepp received her MLS in Library & Information Science in 2013 from the State University of New York at Buffalo. From 2014 - 2018, she worked for the Lily Dale Assembly as the first professional Librarian of the Marion H. Skidmore Library, a special collections and rare books facility which houses the largest private library collection of Spiritualist and Occult books in the world, and became the Library Director in 2016. In 2017 Mandi was presented with the WNYLRC Excellence in Library Service Award for her role in completely revitalizing the library and bringing it up to modern academic standards. In 2018, she transitioned to The State University of New York at Fredonia’s Daniel A. Reed Library Special Collections & Archives Division where she currently serves as the Coordinator of Special Collections & Archives. In addition to her professional duties, Mandi presents and writes on topics related to collections and historical subjects within the realms of Freethought, Spiritualism, and the Occult; she also serves as the co-chair of the Harvest Moon Cemetery Tours planning committee. When she’s not elbow-deep in materials from a bygone era, Mandi can be found homebrewing, experimenting in the kitchen, and enjoying life with her happy-go-lucky husband, Chris, and enormous Norwegian Forest Cats, Kujira and Bakemono.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/27538356
info_outline
S3 Episode 3: The Story of Chicken Bone Beach
07/19/2023
S3 Episode 3: The Story of Chicken Bone Beach
During the early to mid-20th century, Chicken Bone Beach served as one of the few areas where African Americans were allowed to enjoy the Atlantic City shoreline. In this episode, we spoke with Cheryl Woodruff Brooks, the author of Chicken Bone Beach - A Pictorial History of Atlantic City’s Missouri Avenue Beach. We explored the challenges and triumphs of the Black community as they fought against racial discrimination and carved out a space of joy and leisure amidst a deeply divided society. The history of Chicken Bone Beach also includes the 20th century jazz and entertainment scene, featuring legendary musicians who performed on its stages. With Cheryl, we celebrate the resilience and spirit of those who once gathered on Chicken Bone Beach and explore the efforts to preserve its memory for future generations.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/27504078
info_outline
S3 Episode 2: Blood Work
07/05/2023
S3 Episode 2: Blood Work
The crime scene and death cleanup industry is a vital and often overlooked component of public safety and restoration. When the unthinkable occurs, crime scene and death cleaners step in to restore order and cleanliness. As a seasoned expert in the field, Scott Vogel of Emergi-Clean, based out of New Jersey, sheds light on the importance of crime scene cleanup and its significant impact on affected individuals and communities. From violent crimes to accidents, Scott shares anecdotes that highlight the resilience and dedication required to handle these challenging situations with professionalism and compassion.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/27367884
info_outline
S3 Episode 1: Exploring America - Lily Dale
06/21/2023
S3 Episode 1: Exploring America - Lily Dale
Lily Dale is a place where Spiritualism lives and the dead are in constant contact with the living. It’s a place that people flock to in search of comfort, healing and meaning. It is also a quiet community located in western New York that’s a stone’s throw away from Canada and nestled between Buffalo and Erie, PA. In our search for some of the most interesting and unique places in America, Lily Dale stood out for its influence on American culture and society. We spoke to Mandi Shepp, the former director of the library in Lily Dale and has a great knowledge of the town’s history. We also spoke with Bobbie Caswell, a psychic medium living in Lily Dale. Bobbie discussed what it’s like to be a psychic medium, how the Spiritualist movement has, and continues, to shape this community and why people flock to it every summer.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/27217083
info_outline
Minisode 5: Streaming & Nostalgia
06/03/2023
Minisode 5: Streaming & Nostalgia
In this Minisode we discuss Netflix ending their DVD service, streaming services and what it's like to have a DVD collection that is still growing. Do you have a DVD collection of your own? Share it with us on or ! Are you one of the few people receiving DVDs by mail from Netflix? How do you feel about this service ending? Check out!
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/27031821
info_outline
Minisode 4: An Attempt at Trying to Eat Healthy
05/16/2023
Minisode 4: An Attempt at Trying to Eat Healthy
A brief discussion about our personal experiences in trying to eat healthy. We discuss trying keto meals. (Not a full keto diet, but just meals to reduce the overall amount of carbs condumed.) Other things discussed in this episode are overall sugar consumption, the differences between similar foods and beverages around the world and growing and making our own food. We are in no way giving advice, we are sharing our own experiences. Check out!
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/26834631
info_outline
S2 Episode 14: Behind the Walls, Between the Lines
04/12/2023
S2 Episode 14: Behind the Walls, Between the Lines
Joe Turner is a true crime author who has written about and researched the crimes of Danny LaPlante extensively. After writing an article with details about the case that bordered on stretching the truth, the truth came directly to him. Those close to the case started to contact him with details that weren't all that known. This has led Joe to write the a book detailing the case even further. We caught up with Joe to discuss his upcoming book and how the mystery and lack of details surrounding the case led to some of what little was known becoming the stuff of legend. Be sure to look out for "The Boy in the Walls", a true crime novel by Joe Turner.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/26504505
info_outline
S2 Episode 13: Justice Lost, Justice Gained
03/29/2023
S2 Episode 13: Justice Lost, Justice Gained
Anthony Broadwater was convicted of the sexual assault of Alice Sebold, the author known for works such as Lucky and The Lovely Bones. Years later, with the help of film producer Timothy Mucciante, Anthony was exonerated of the crime due to discrepancies and inaccuracies in the author's story and memoir. All of this has had a profound effect on Anthony's life. We sat down with Timothy Mucciante to learn more about how he uncovered the truth surrounding the events of the memoir and how he aided in the pursuit of justice for Anthony.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/26372901
info_outline
S2 Episode 12: Results May Vary - Inside the World of Sperm Donation
03/15/2023
S2 Episode 12: Results May Vary - Inside the World of Sperm Donation
In season 1 we spoke with Kasi about being a single mom by choice so we decided to delve in to the world of sperm donors. In this episode we hear from a private sperm donor as well as the biological child of a sperm donor. John, a sperm donor from California is a private sperm donor who enjoys helping others create the families they have always wanted. He tells us all about how the world of direct and private sperm donation works. Nate, is the biological son of a sperm donor. After deciding to contact his biological father, his life was forever changed.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/26233272
info_outline
S2 Episode 11: Strike a Chord
03/01/2023
S2 Episode 11: Strike a Chord
Ariel Lask is an accomplished singer-songwriter and musician who has been on professional musical journey with plenty of highs and lows. She is also a co-host of the podcast "Breaking Through", which she hosts with musical artist Twinnie. Ariel discussed her journey's ups and downs, navigating the world and harsh reality of the music industry and where she is now in her career.
/episode/index/show/boundbythecloak/id/26055165