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.
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S5 Episode 16: Allan Pinkerton-America’s First Detective
09/05/2025
S5 Episode 16: Allan Pinkerton-America’s First Detective
You may have heard of “The Pinkertons,” the infamous detective and spy agency that dealt with matters of national intelligence and security, labor union disputes and much more. But what do you know about Allan Pinkerton, the founder of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency? Author Rhodri Jeffreys-Jones explores the life and adventures of Pinkerton in his latest book, “Allan Pinkerton: America’s Legendary Detective and the Birth of Private Security.” With Rhodri, we trace Pinkerton’s unlikely rise from a Scottish immigrant to America’s first “detective,” his role in protecting Abraham Lincoln, his battles with outlaws and activists, and the controversial methods that made his agency both feared and admired. Rhodri also helps us separate fact from legend, while reflecting on how Pinkerton’s legacy continues to influence modern security and surveillance. We’ll also learn more about Rhodri himself: born in Wales in 1942, descended from poets, miners, and industrialists, educated at Cambridge, Michigan, and Harvard, and a longtime professor at the University of Edinburgh who has written more than twenty books on American history.
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S5 Episode 15: Deep Sleep
08/11/2025
S5 Episode 15: Deep Sleep
Step inside one of the most disturbing chapters in modern psychiatry. In this episode, author and journalist Jon Stock joins us to discuss his book The Sleep Room: A Sadistic Psychiatrist and the Women Who Survived Him, an investigation into the shocking experiments of Dr. William Sargant in 1960s London. Sargant’s so-called treatments—prolonged drug-induced sleep, electroconvulsive therapy, and other invasive procedures—left deep scars on the women subjected to them, many without their consent. We also hear from Mary, a survivor of the Sleep Room, who shares her firsthand experience of life inside those locked hospital wards. Her story brings a haunting, personal dimension to Stock’s reporting, shedding light on the lasting impact of medical abuse and the courage it takes to speak out.
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S5 Episode 14: The Untold Story of East New York
07/28/2025
S5 Episode 14: The Untold Story of East New York
In the early 1990s, East New York was known as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in America, a place dubbed “The Killing Fields” after a wave of murders shook Brooklyn. What if the real crime story started decades earlier, in boardrooms and banks? Author Stacy Horn takes us inside her new book, The Killing Fields of East New York, to uncover how a well-intentioned housing policy in the late 1960s spiraled into America’s first subprime mortgage scandal. When most people think of a subprime crisis, they think of 2008. But long before that, East New York became ground zero for greed, fraud, and systemic neglect, devastating an entire community. Stacy traces the domino effect: fraudulent FHA-backed loans, families trapped in crumbling homes, abandoned blocks, and a surge in violence that left East New York with one of the highest murder rates in the country. Along the way, she shares the human stories behind the statistics, the investigators who tried to stop the collapse, and why these failures still matter today. This is a look at how white-collar crime can destroy neighborhoods as completely as street violence—and why history keeps repeating itself.
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S5 Episode 13: Intel - Secrets and Civil Liberties
07/10/2025
S5 Episode 13: Intel - Secrets and Civil Liberties
What does it mean to live in a country built on freedom but shaped by secrecy? Intelligence work is often hidden in the shadows—but its impact shapes every facet of our public and private lives. We chat with Dr. Jeffrey Rogg, a historian who offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how American intelligence has evolved—and why it matters more than ever today. Jeff is Senior Research Fellow at the University of South Florida’s Global and National Security Institute. Previously, he served as an assistant professor at the Joint Special Operations University (U.S. Special Operations Command) and The Citadel, and was a postdoctoral fellow in the National Security Affairs Department at the U.S. Naval War College. He is vice president of the Society for Intelligence History and sits on the editorial board of the International Journal of Intelligence and CounterIntelligence. His new book, The Spy and the State: The History of American Intelligence, is out now. He holds a BA in Latin and ancient history from Swarthmore College, a JD from Villanova University School of Law, an MA in security studies from Georgetown University, and a PhD in history from The Ohio State University. He also served six years in the Massachusetts Army National Guard as an infantryman.
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S5 Episode 12: Interview with the Psychopath
06/26/2025
S5 Episode 12: Interview with the Psychopath
What does it feel like to live without empathy—or guilt? Sociopathy is one of the most misunderstood diagnoses in psychology. We chat with Jamie who offers a rare, first-person glimpse into life with antisocial personality disorder. We discuss stigma, resilience, and the complexity of being “different” in a world built for emotional connection. Jamie, also known by the pen name M.E. Thomas, is the author of Confessions of a Sociopath, A Life Spent Hiding in Plain Sight. She is a former law professor who has written extensively on music copyright issues, a current California attorney, and the founder of a non-profit. She is also a professional musician.
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S5 Episode 11: The Differences Between Us
06/08/2025
S5 Episode 11: The Differences Between Us
Is race written in our DNA—or is that one of the most dangerous myths of modern science? In this episode, we speak with Dr. Rina Bliss, sociologist and author of What’s Real About Race: The New Genetics and the Future of Racism. With Rina, we challenge long-held assumptions about biology and race, revealing how cutting-edge genetic research is being misinterpreted in ways that reinforce inequality. We discuss why race is not a biological truth but a social construct—and why that distinction matters more than ever in the age of consumer DNA tests, precision medicine, and tech-driven bias. Bio: Rina’s work explores the personal and societal significance of emerging genetic sciences. She is Associate Professor of Sociology at Rutgers University and the author of Rethinking Intelligence: A Radical New Understanding of Our Human Potential, Race Decoded: The Genomic Fight for Social Justice and Social by Nature: The Promise and Peril of Sociogenomics. She lives in Princeton, New Jersey, with her family.
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S5 Episode 10: Breaking the Silence - Surviving the Golden State Killer
05/21/2025
S5 Episode 10: Breaking the Silence - Surviving the Golden State Killer
Kris Pedretti is the 10th known survivor of the Golden State Killer, Joseph James DeAngelo. After remaining silent for 42 years, she now courageously shares her journey of post-traumatic growth. In this episode, Kris opens up about what it took to confront her trauma decades later, how she found her voice, and why she’s dedicated her life to empowering other survivors. Kris is a powerful voice for survivor advocacy, participating in national podcasts, documentaries, and public speaking engagements to raise awareness and promote healing. She travels the country speaking at conferences on trauma-informed care, law enforcement training, and survivor support. As the founder and CEO of Phyllis’s Garden, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual assault, Kris leads vital initiatives, including the creation of soft interview rooms in police stations and the facilitation of survivor-led support groups. Her work helps others break their silence, reclaim their voice, and find strength in healing.
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S5 Episode 9: Are the Kids Alright?
05/08/2025
S5 Episode 9: Are the Kids Alright?
Why does parenting feel so much harder today? In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Runyon, a former child psychotherapist turned parent coach, author, and keynote speaker with over 22 years of experience in child and adolescent mental health. Nicole brings a rare ability to bridge the gap between generations, helping adults truly understand what’s going on inside the minds of today’s kids. We talk about how technology is reshaping childhood, the emotional toll of growing up in today’s world, and why so much mainstream parenting advice misses the mark. Nicole shares practical insights on how to build stronger, more connected relationships with children, plus a few hilarious stories from her own life as a parent. Whether you're raising kids, teaching them, or just trying to relate to the young people in your life, this conversation will leave you feeling more informed and a little more hopeful.
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S5 Episode 8: Celebrating the Weird and Wonderful - Windy City Paranormal Fest
04/24/2025
S5 Episode 8: Celebrating the Weird and Wonderful - Windy City Paranormal Fest
What happens when the paranormal meets storytelling and community? Welcome to Windy City Paranormal Fest, Chicago’s celebration of all things strange and unexplained. In this episode, two of the creators, Franky Everleigh and Christina Rappel, share the story behind this unique fest, which brings together the curious and the courageous to explore everything from spirits and cryptids to psychic phenomena and UFOs. Franky and Christina are passionate about uplifting underrepresented voices in the paranormal world and fostering a community that honors both the fun and the historical weight of haunted spaces. Windy City Paranormal Fest is about more than just the supernatural. It’s about creating a space for diverse voices, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating the weird and wonderful in all its forms. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most exciting and inclusive paranormal gatherings around. If you’re in Chicago this June, join in person, or catch the action through a live stream.
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S5 Episode 7: Health - Fad, Fact and Fiction
04/09/2025
S5 Episode 7: Health - Fad, Fact and Fiction
What does it truly mean to be healthy in today’s world, where diet culture and social pressures shape our perceptions of wellness? Martina Cartwright helps us break down the myths surrounding "perfect" health and wellness, offering empowering insights on how to reclaim a balanced, self-compassionate approach to living well. Martina is a registered dietitian and expert with over 26 years of experience in clinical practice, research, and education. She has worked in diverse fields—from pharmaceutical research to clinical dermatology—and is a pioneer in understanding how external pressures—from beauty pageants to social media—affect our body image and relationship with food. She’s the author of the first peer-reviewed paper on child beauty pageants and body image and has been at the forefront of bringing attention to how nutrition can affect skin health. Whether you’re navigating the world of social media, parenting kids, or simply seeking a healthier relationship with food, dive into this conversation on why wellness is a personal journey, free from external pressures, and how we can start redefining healthy—on our own terms.
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S5 Episode 6: Beyond the Pole
03/27/2025
S5 Episode 6: Beyond the Pole
We've explored the world of escort service as well as the life of an OnlyFans model. This time we thought we'd explore the industry as it pertains to strippers. NatsHoney is an industry veteran with years of experience. NatsHoney is the President of Strippers United, a labor organization led by strippers advocating for fair wages, safety, and dignity in the industry. We caught up with her to discuss her experience in the industry, how strippers face wage theft,and a lack of labor protections. NatsHoney is an entrepreneur, artist, and advocate. She founded Honey’s Artistic Pot in 2008, a collective focused on mentoring and supporting artists through collaboration, consulting, and event production. With 12 years of experience leading medicinal cannabis collectives in Los Angeles, she has been deeply involved in advocacy, entrepreneurship, and policy reform. Today, she balances motherhood, creative pursuits, and serves as the President for Strippers United, while continuing to embrace her passion for pole dancing.
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S5 Episode 5: Essential
03/12/2025
S5 Episode 5: Essential
What exactly is a rape kit? What goes into it? Who created it? It's a question most of us have never thought to ask. The rape kit revolutionized forensic science and gave sexual assault survivors a powerful tool in the pursuit of justice. Pagan Kennedy had questions and went on a search for answers. While digging around, she learned of Marty Goddard and her quest in the 1970s to help create a system for collecting evidence. Pagan is the author of The Secret History of the Rape Kit: A True Crime Story. She is also a journalist who has written over twelve books and countless articles. Her journalism has appeared in dozens of publications including The New Yorker and Atlantic Monthly; she has worked as a columnist for The New York Times Magazine, The Boston Globe Magazine, and The Village Voice. Her awards include a Knight Science Journalism Fellowship at MIT, an NEA Fellowship, a Smithsonian Fellowship, and two Massachusetts Cultural Council fellowships.
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S5 Episode 4: A Very Furry Episode
02/27/2025
S5 Episode 4: A Very Furry Episode
The Furry subculture is a subculture that’s often misunderstood, misrepresented and wrapped in myth. So, what’s the real story behind the fandom? With Dr. Courtney Plante and others, we hear about the world of furries - the creativity, community, and identity of it all. Courtney is a social psychologist and co-founder of FurScience, the leading research group dedicated to studying the furry community. As an associate professor at Bishop’s University, he's spent years researching the psychology of fandoms, identity, and the power of belonging. He helps us break down common misconceptions, explore why people become furries, and discuss how the fandom provides a supportive space for self-expression. Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or already part of the community, this episode challenges misconceptions and reveals the deeper meaning behind the fur.
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S5 Episode 3: Exploring America - The Gullah Geechee Corridor
02/06/2025
S5 Episode 3: Exploring America - The Gullah Geechee Corridor
The Gullah Geechee Corridor spans multiple states throughout the southeastern U.S. and is comprised of a deep and rich history, culture, language and lifestyle. The Gullah Geechee people are the descendants of enslaved Africans who worked on rice, indigo and cotton plantations throughout the south. Being enslaved on plantations on remote coastal islands allowed for them to develop and retain a strong, deep culture that is evident in their music, food, language, artwork and more. Luana Graves Sellars is the founder of the Lowcountry Gullah Foundation. She is an activist and preservationist, an award winning podcast host, a documentarian, a writer and more. Lowcountry Gullah raises money for Gullah heirs property and works to preserve and ptotect the Gullah culture.
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S5 Episode 2: Mob Cops
01/23/2025
S5 Episode 2: Mob Cops
Two NYPD detectives sworn to uphold the law—yet deeply entangled in the world of organized crime. Journalist and acclaimed author Michael Cannell is back with us to discuss his gripping new book, Blood and the Badge: The Mafia, Two Killer Cops, and a Scandal That Shocked the Nation. Michael uncovers the shocking true story of two NYPD officers who secretly worked for the mob, carrying out hits and leaking information to some of the most dangerous crime families in New York. How did these cops manage to operate in plain sight? What led to their eventual downfall? And how did their crimes shake the foundation of law enforcement? Explore this explosive case of betrayal, power, and the blurred lines between justice and corruption. Michael is an accomplished author and journalist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. He has penned five non-fiction books, including Blood and the Badge: The Mafia, Two Killer Cops, and a Scandal That Shocked the Nation, A Brotherhood Betrayed: The Man Behind the Rise and Fall of Murder, Inc., and Incendiary: The Psychiatrist, the Mad Bomber and the Invention of Criminal Profiling.
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S5 Episode 1: Weekend Adventures with Emma
01/08/2025
S5 Episode 1: Weekend Adventures with Emma
Imagine setting foot in a place you've never been, meeting people from all walks of life, and facing challenges that push you beyond your limits—only to discover the incredible impact travel has on one's life. We're joined by Emma Wong-Stephens, an avid traveler and blogger who has turned her passion for exploring the world into a platform for storytelling and inspiration. From bustling cities to remote landscapes, Emma shares her most memorable adventures, her favorite places in the world, the challenges she’s faced on the road, and the fascinating people she’s encountered along the way. Beyond the breathtaking destinations, Emma reflects on how travel shapes our understanding of humanity and how stepping outside our comfort zones can deepen our empathy and appreciation for the world.
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S4 Episode 27: Genetic Disorders Decoded
12/25/2024
S4 Episode 27: Genetic Disorders Decoded
Genetic disorders can be a mystery to many, but for those living with them, they’re a daily reality. In this episode, we talk to Melissa, who shares her life with Senior-Løken Syndrome — a rare condition that affects her vision and kidney function. Melissa opens up about her experiences, challenges, and triumphs as she navigates a world not designed for people like her. We’re also joined by Dr. Julian Barwell, a geneticist who helps us understand the science behind genetic disorders. He breaks down the importance of genetic research, early diagnosis, and how advancements in medicine are offering new hope to patients and families alike. Through personal stories and expert insight, this episode connects science and the human experience
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Minisode 8 - Deeper Into the Nightmare
12/18/2024
Minisode 8 - Deeper Into the Nightmare
This mini episode includes even more sleep paralysis stories. Some of these stories are more stories from the guests featured in episode 26 and some are brand new!
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S4 Episode 26: Welcome to the Nightmare
12/11/2024
S4 Episode 26: Welcome to the Nightmare
Sleep paralysis is a condition that blurs the lines between dreams and waking life, leaving those who experience it frozen in fear. In this episode, we delve into the eerie and fascinating world of sleep paralysis by talking to individuals who’ve faced this mysterious phenomenon. Our featured guest, Ranita Roy, shares her vivid and haunting experiences, providing a glimpse into what it feels like to be awake but unable to move, all while encountering surreal, shadowy figures. Alongside Ranita’s story, we hear from others whose accounts range from unsettling to oddly enlightening, uncovering how culture, psychology, and personal beliefs shape the way we experience and interpret this sleep anomaly. Ranita is a storyteller and creative artist with a keen interest in exploring the intersection of dreams, consciousness, and the human psyche. Drawing from her own vivid experiences with sleep paralysis, Ranita combines personal narratives with cultural and psychological insights.
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S4 Episode 25: Cultural Variations in Psychosomatic Disorders
11/20/2024
S4 Episode 25: Cultural Variations in Psychosomatic Disorders
Have you ever wondered why certain illnesses only seem to appear in specific cultures? How do cultural beliefs shape our experience of health and illness? In this episode, we explore the world of culture-bound syndromes with medical anthropologist, Peter Guarnaccia. These intriguing, culturally specific disorders—such as susto, koro, and ataque de nervios—offer unique insights into how mental health, the body, and culture intersect. Peter helps us explore the rich and varied ways different societies interpret psychological distress, physical ailments, and healing practices that challenge Western medical norms. Peter is an Emeritus Professor at Rutgers University, where he served for 36 years in the Department of Human Ecology at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences. Additionally, he was an Investigator at the Institute for Health, Health Care Policy, and Aging Research in Rutgers Biomedical Health Sciences. Peter is widely recognized for his contributions to the study of cultural health practices and mental health.
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S4 Episode 24: DONNAVILLE
11/06/2024
S4 Episode 24: DONNAVILLE
Step into the surreal and fiercely imaginative world of DONNAVILLE, the latest novel by award-winning writer Donna Minkowitz. In this episode, Donna uncovers the layers of her unique, genre-defying book—a world where personal history, fantasy, and feminist themes converge. Donna is a writer of fantasy, memoir, and journalism lauded by Lilith Magazine for her “fierce imagination and compelling prose.” DONNAVILLE is published by Indolent Books. Donna is also the author of the memoirs FEROCIOUS ROMANCE, which won a Lambda Literary Award, and GROWING UP GOLEM, which was a finalist for a Lammy and for the Judy Grahn Nonfiction Award. She is a former columnist for the Village Voice, and her writing has also appeared in the New York Times Book Review, The Nation, Salon, Slate, and The Advocate. Minkowitz is the recipient of a GLAAD Media Award, the Exceptional Merit Media Award, and the NLGJA Award for Outstanding Journalism. With Donna, we explore how literature can transport us, transform us, and help us uncover our truest selves.
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S4 Episode 23: All Hallows' Eve with Lisa Morton
10/31/2024
S4 Episode 23: All Hallows' Eve with Lisa Morton
Ever wondered how Halloween evolved from its ancient origins to the costume-filled celebration we know today? In this Halloween special, we sat down with the incredible Lisa Morton, author, historian, and one of the world’s leading experts on Halloween. From ancient Celtic traditions to the modern-day thrill of haunted houses and costumes, Lisa takes us on a journey through the fascinating evolution of Halloween. Explore how this once-sacred festival honoring the dead transformed into the spooky celebration we know today, uncover ghost stories, rituals, and the cultural shifts that kept Halloween alive through centuries. Lisa is a renowned author, Halloween historian, and expert on horror and the supernatural. Her fascination with Halloween began as a child and grew into a celebrated career that has shaped the way we understand and appreciate the holiday. She’s written extensively on Halloween’s evolution, horror, and folklore, including her acclaimed The Halloween Encyclopedia and the Bram Stoker Award-winning Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween.
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S4 Episode 22: The Tragic Story of Lita McClinton
10/23/2024
S4 Episode 22: The Tragic Story of Lita McClinton
What happens when love turns deadly in the shadow of race and privilege? In this episode, we unravel a true crime that shook the foundations of Georgia's high society. Deb Miller Landau, joins us to discuss the tragic and harrowing murder of Lita McClinton. Lita, a young woman from Atlanta, became the victim of a calculated murder-for-hire scheme led by her estranged husband. The crime would expose a world where money and influence often overshadow justice. Deb is an accomplished author and journalist known for her in-depth storytelling on crime, social justice, and cultural issues. Her book, A Devil Went Down to Georgia: Race, Power, Privilege, and the Murder of Lita McClinton, explores the shocking murder of Lita and the racial and societal dynamics surrounding the case. With a background in investigative journalism, Deb brings a sharp, insightful voice to uncovering the deeper issues behind some of the country’s most compelling and tragic events.
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Minisode 7: Field of Screams
10/21/2024
Minisode 7: Field of Screams
Field of Screams is one of America's best haunted attractions, and it's been striking fear into and scaring the souls out of the souls of the thousands of guests that show up year after year. Started by brothers Gene and Jim Schopf back in 1993, it's transformed from just a haunted hayride into so much more with three haunted houses and escape rooms. We spent some time at Field of Screams getting to know the Schopfs, making our own way through the many haunted attractions and learning just what draws in the souls of it's many guests, or should I say victims, year after year.
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S4 Episode 21: A View From the Front Desk
10/09/2024
S4 Episode 21: A View From the Front Desk
In this episode, we explore the unique experience of growing up in a motel as a family business, where the line between home and work blurs in the most fascinating ways. Our guest, Foram Mehta, reflects on her childhood spent amidst the hustle and bustle of transient guests, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of motel life. She shares stories of the diverse travelers who passed through, the lessons learned from her parents about entrepreneurship and resilience, and how this unconventional upbringing shaped her identity. Foram is a storyteller, freelance journalist, editor, and content developer.
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S4 Episode 20: The Hills Have Crimes
09/25/2024
S4 Episode 20: The Hills Have Crimes
Crime, scandal and intrigue in Beverly Hills. From high-profile heists to shocking murders, we uncover the hidden, dark side of 90210, some of which has long been forgotten. We sat down with renowned entertainment journalist and author Scott Huver to explore the dark underbelly of one of America's most glamorous zip codes — Beverly Hills. Scott takes us behind the glitz and into the gripping stories that inspired his upcoming book, Beverly Hills Noir: Crime, Sin, & Scandal in 90210. From infamous scandals to shocking crimes, Scott unveils the secrets of the rich and famous that Hollywood would rather keep hidden. We delve into the real-life drama that rivals even the most salacious on-screen plotlines, revealing the shadows lurking in the heart of Beverly Hills.
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S4 Episode 19: Bouncing Back-James Donaldson's Mental Health Journey
09/11/2024
S4 Episode 19: Bouncing Back-James Donaldson's Mental Health Journey
In this powerful episode, we sit down with James Donaldson, former NBA star and mental health advocate, to discuss his deeply personal journey through the highs of professional basketball and the lows of battling severe depression and suicidal ideation. James opens up about the mental health crisis that nearly ended his life, sharing the pivotal moments that pulled him back from the brink. Now, through his work with the Your Gift of Life Foundation, James is dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health, particularly among men and communities of color. He provides vital resources and support for those struggling, proving that there’s always hope on the other side of despair. This episode is not just about James’ story, but a candid conversation that sheds light on the often unseen side of mental health struggles and serves as a reminder that it’s okay not to be okay. Whether you're a sports fan, someone battling your own mental health challenges, or simply looking for inspiration, join us as we break the silence on mental health with James Donaldson.
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S4 Episode 18: Take the Money and Run
08/28/2024
S4 Episode 18: Take the Money and Run
In this gripping episode, we sit down with Ashley Randele, daughter of Thomas Randele, to uncover the incredible story of her father's secret life. For decades, Thomas Randele lived a seemingly ordinary life as a loving husband and father, until the shocking revelation that he had been living under an alias, hiding a past no one could have imagined. Ashley takes us through her journey of discovery, grappling with the truth about her father’s hidden identity, and the emotional impact it had on her family. Tune in to hear a deeply personal account of deception, family ties, and the search for understanding in the wake of an astonishing revelation. Ashley is a classically trained singer and philosopher from Lynnfield, Massachusetts who enjoys theater and all things Christmas. She created her podcast, My Fugitive Dad, when her dad’s 2021 bombshell changed her life. You can follow her on Instagram @theashleyrandele.
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S4 Episode 17: Did You Say You're From Molossia?
08/14/2024
S4 Episode 17: Did You Say You're From Molossia?
Nestled in the Nevada desert, the Republic of Molossia is a self-proclaimed sovereign nation with its own traditions, customs, and even a currency! Join us as we explore what it takes to create and govern a micronation, the quirks and challenges of running a country within a country, and the whimsical yet thought-provoking philosophy behind Molossia. In this episode, we venture into the fascinating world of micronations with a very special guest, Kevin Baugh, the President of Molossia. He shares the stories, the humor, and the serious undertones that come with being a leader of one of the world's most intriguing micronations.
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S4 Episode 16: Power & Respect
07/31/2024
S4 Episode 16: Power & Respect
With renowned investigative journalist Gus Garcia-Roberts we explore the deep-seated corruption that plagued Long Island's law enforcement, detailed in his book, "Jimmy the King: Murder, Vice, and the Reign of a Dirty Cop." Gus takes us behind the scenes of one of the most shocking tales of police corruption in recent history, centering on James Burke, a former police chief whose career was steeped in scandal, crime, and abuse of power. From secret deals with criminals to the internal failings of the police force, this episode uncovers the dark truths that lie beneath the surface of law enforcement. Gus Garcia-Roberts is a sports-focused investigative reporter for The Washington Post. He's worked on investigative teams for Newsday, the Los Angeles Times and USA Today. He was a member of the Newsday team that was a finalist for the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for its series on hidden police misconduct on the eastern end of Long Island. He is the co-author of "Blood Sport: A-Rod and the Quest to End Baseball's Steroid Era" and author of "Jimmy the King: Murder, Vice, and the Rise of a Dirty Cop," published May 2022.
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