On December 24th 1996, in Minneapolis, a series of escalating disturbances unfolded across the city, leading to an explosion during the city’s Christmas celebrations. What began as isolated incidents at shopping centers and local businesses quickly revealed themselves to be connected, linked by the same individuals. 

In November 1995, 16-year-old Ruth Wilson vanished after leaving her home in Surrey. She didn't go to school as planned though. Instead she ordered some flowers, and took a taxi to a quiet rural lane near Box Hill. Then...she disappeared without a trace. Thirty years later, her family and investigators are still searching for answers.... Continue Reading →

In the final part of our Dr. Crippen series, we’re heading into the Old Bailey for one of the most sensational trials in Edwardian history. We’ll walk you through the courtroom, the personalities, the evidence, the theatrics, the “Saul Goodman–before-Saul-Goodman” defense strategy, and the moment the jury returned in just twenty-seven minutes. Part 4 brings... Continue Reading →

In Part 3 of our Crippen series, we follow the case across the Atlantic and back again. After the dramatic arrest aboard the Montrose, Inspector Dew brings Crippen and Ethel to Québec, where the crowds are already waiting and the extradition machinery kicks into motion. We cover their guarded return voyage, the secrecy, and the surprisingly... Continue Reading →

In Part 2 of our Crippen series, Scotland Yard finally agrees something isn’t right with Dr Crippen. Inspector Dew talks to Crippen, listens politely, and then decides he needs another look inside the house on Hilldrop Crescent. What he finds there ends any hope that Belle simply packed up and left. At the same time,... Continue Reading →

London, 1910: Dr. Hawley Harvey Crippen and his wife, music-hall performer Belle Elmore, seem to have built the perfect Edwardian life... a tidy house in Holloway, polite manners, and a place in London’s social circle. But behind the facade of 39 Hilldrop Crescent, the marriage is falling apart. In this first part of the story,... Continue Reading →

They’ve delivered love letters and war messages, carried microfilm across battlefields, worn tiny backpacks full of XTC, and been accused of international espionage! Yet somehow, pigeons have become one of the most hated animals in modern cities. In this episode we take a closer look at the humble pigeon...a bird that’s been by our side... Continue Reading →

On Halloween night, 1973, nine-year-old Lisa Ann French left her home in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, dressed as a hobo and planning to trick-or-treat with a friend. She never made it back. What followed would not only shatter their community, but also forever change Halloween for American families, and spark one of the most shocking... Continue Reading →

This week, Johanna takes us back to 18th-century Austria, when terrified villagers were convinced the dead were refusing to stay buried...and the Habsburg Empire responded the only way it knew how: with paperwork! Hear all about Petar Blagojević and Arnold Paole, and how it lead to Maria Theresia’s no-nonsense vampire ban. This is the true... Continue Reading →

For our 300th episode, we’re boarding one of the most famous ships in the world: the RMS Queen Mary. Once the epitome of 1930s luxury and wartime resilience, she now sits permanently moored in Long Beach, California… and she’s said to be home to over 150ghosts. We talk about the tragic story of Door 13... Continue Reading →

This week on Fresh Hell, we’re taking you to the heart of spooky fuckery month with a deep dive into witch lore and trials in Austria and Germany. You know Salem: twenty people, one tragic year! But compared to what happened in central Europe, Salem was just a footnote. We’ll explore the folklore that fed... Continue Reading →

Crikey! This week we’re taking you to meet crocodiles. The largest living reptiles on Earth, creatures that inspire both awe and terror. We’ll talk about the late, great Steve Irwin, whose passion and humor showed millions of people why crocodiles deserve our respect.  We’ll also tell you the truth about the legend of the Ramree... Continue Reading →

Cardinal de Rohan believes he’s secretly helping Marie Antoinette purchase the world’s most extravagant necklace, while Jeanne de la Motte and her accomplices quietly dismantle it and sell the diamonds across Europe. We’ll tell you all about the scheme, the dramatic arrest of Rohan at Versailles during the Feast of the Assumption, and the sensational... Continue Reading →

This week we’re heading to Versailles for one of the most scandalous cons in French history. In Part 1, you'll hear all about the glittering worlds of Versailles and Schönbrunn, the childhood and marriage of Marie Antoinette, and her already fragile reputation as “Madame Déficit.” We’ll meet the main characters in this elaborate scheme: Cardinal... Continue Reading →

In the 16th to 18th centuries, hundreds of people across Central Europe engineered their own executions in the hope of dying “in a state of grace.” Suicide was a mortal sin, but murder was a capital crime, and execution after confession was seen as a path to salvation. In this episode we discuss several real... Continue Reading →

We're still on a summer break, but you know we couldn’t stay away from the horror for long.  In this second Best of Fresh Hell special, we’ve got three more unforgettable true crime cases from the archives, all condensed for maximum dread in minimum time. We start with the heartbreaking murder of Katharina Fellner, a young woman in... Continue Reading →

We might be on a summer break, but the mystery doesn’t stop.  In this first Best of Fresh Hell special, we’re serving up three of our favorite cold cases in condensed form.  Perfect for when you want the unsettling highlights without the two-hour extra information! First up: Owen Parfitt, a paralyzed man who vanished from his front porch... Continue Reading →

In the third and final part of this Hollywood murder saga, we talk about the murder scene, all the possible suspects! Who had a motive? And who may have been protected by the studio system at all costs?We’ll walk you through the possible killers — from studio insiders and jilted lovers to the ones no... Continue Reading →

In part two of our three-part look at the mysterious murder of William Desmond Taylor, we pick up with the powerful (and possibly romantic) figures in Taylor’s life, and trace the final days leading up to his death. You’ll hear about his complex relationship with set designer George James Hopkins, the bond he shared with... Continue Reading →

Before there was Hollywood scandal, there was THE Hollywood scandal. In this first part of our series on the murder of William Desmond Taylor, we're setting the scene: Los Angeles in the 1920s, the silent film industry at its decadent, chaotic peak, and the lives of the people who would soon be swept up in one... Continue Reading →

This week’s episode covers everything from the grim legacy of racist alligator myths to actual gator attacks, pet alligators ordered through the mail, and that one time a gator rang a doorbell in Florida. You’ll learn why the myth of sewer gators exists (and how Eleanor the Nile crocodile ended up beneath Paris), what black... Continue Reading →

This week, we’re trading murder for mayhem of the ancient reptilian variety. We take a deep dive into the world of crocodilians—those prehistoric apex predators that have been lurking in rivers, swamps, and sometimes swimming pools for millions of years. From the surprisingly gentle Chinese alligator to the misunderstood American alligator and the unexpectedly terrifying... Continue Reading →

In this week’s solo episode, Johanna takes you to the picture-perfect Austrian town of Werfen — home to falcons, frozen caves, The Sound of Music, and once... a baker with a deadly secret. Johann Oberreiter was a respected businessman, a model Catholic, and even a former town leader. But behind closed doors, he was also a... Continue Reading →

So... you almost died. Or you technically did—for a moment. And then came the tunnel, the music, the relatives made of light, the surgeons flapping like chickens, or the sudden drop into a shadowy void full of screaming. Welcome to the Fresh Hell guide to near-death experiences. In this episode we explore what happens when... Continue Reading →

Congratulations—you’ve died! Now what? In this our version of the "Handbook For the Recently Deceased" (and the morbidly curious). We take you on a cross-cultural tour of the afterlife. Whether you’re heading for a bureaucratic judgment hall, a tunnel of light, a reincarnation lottery, or just... absolute nothingness, we’ve got you covered. This episode explores... Continue Reading →

In this week’s episode, Johanna takes us deep into the shadows of pre-WWI Austria-Hungary to tell the true story of Colonel Alfred Redl, once one of the most trusted man in the Austro-Hungarian military....and also its most infamous traitor. From his modest beginnings in Lemberg to the very top of the empire’s intelligence apparatus, Redl’s... Continue Reading →

In part two of our deep dive into the 1982 Tylenol Murders, we pick up with the immediate aftermath of the cyanide-laced capsules that killed seven innocent people in the Chicago area. As the city and the whole nation started to panic, Johnson & Johnson faced a nightmare scenario. We’ll walk you through the frantic... Continue Reading →

In September of 1982, a 12-year-old girl in suburban Chicago took a Tylenol for a cold—and never got back up. Within days, six more people would die the same way. The connection? A bottle of Extra Strength Tylenol and a horrifying dose of potassium cyanide. In this first part of our two-part series, Johanna and... Continue Reading →

This week, we’re taking a peel behind the Vatican’s heaviest doors. From popes who put each other on trial...AFTER DEATH...to rumors of devilish deals and sweating tombs. We’ll also tell you about the Vatican’s key master (yes, that’s a real job), the Room of Tears (because popes cry too), and how sometimes it's important that... Continue Reading →

In the final part of our Nellie Bly series, we follow her through yet another reinvention ...as wife to industrialist Robert Seaman and, after his death, one of the first female CEOs in the U.S. We look at her lesser-known interviews with a ten-year-old Helen Keller and the terrifying Lizzie Halliday, and how she returned... Continue Reading →

In Part 3 of our Nellie Bly series, the whole world starts to pay attention. We’ll follow her from the publication of Ten Days in a Madhouse to her globe-circling race against the fictional Phileas Fogg. Along the way, Nellie becomes a household name, fields marriage proposals from strangers, and gets immortalized on trading cards and weird... Continue Reading →

In 1887, Nellie Bly got herself committed to one of the most notorious mental institutions in the country — not because she needed help, but because she wanted the truth. In Part 2, we follow Nellie through the gates of Blackwell’s Island, where the food was inedible, the baths were freezing, and silence wasn’t just... Continue Reading →

Before she became one of the most daring journalists in history, Nellie Bly was Elizabeth Jane Cochran — a smart, stubborn girl from Pennsylvania with very few options and even fewer rights. In this episode, we’re going back to the beginning: the poverty, the abusive stepfather, the letter that launched her career, and the fight... Continue Reading →

From flood panics and flaming cities to gas masks for comet poison, humanity has always had a flair for predicting the end of the world—with spectacular inaccuracy. In this special palate cleanser episode, Annie and Johanna walk us through some of the weirdest, funniest, and most deeply unserious doomsday predictions in history. We'll cover the... Continue Reading →

Between 1960 and 1967, three children disappeared without a trace from the small city of Pirmasens, in southwest Germany. Walter Broschat. Klaus-Dieter Stark. Eveline Lübbert. All of them were between 9 and 10 years old. All vanished on a Friday. And to this day, not a single clue has been found. In this episode, we... Continue Reading →

In this episode, we look at the brief and heartbreaking life of Dorothy Stratten—Playmate of the Month in August 1979, aspiring actress, and the victim of one of Hollywood’s most disturbing murder cases. We trace Dorothy’s rise from a Dairy Queen in Vancouver to the pages of Playboy, her toxic relationship with Paul Snider, her affair... Continue Reading →

In this fifth and final part of the Lizzie Halliday story, Lizzie escapes the electric chair—but not justice. She continues to lash out, nearly killing the sheriff’s wife, and ultimately stabbing a beloved young nurse more than 200 times in what would become the first recorded line-of-duty death of a female law enforcement officer in... Continue Reading →

After the discovery of two women’s bodies buried in the manure pile of the Halliday barn, the search for Paul Halliday continues. But as authorities dig deeper—literally and figuratively—they uncover even more horrors. Lizzie Halliday remains in custody, shifting between moments of eerie calm and violent outbursts, but she isn’t done hiding evidence just yet.... Continue Reading →

Lizzie Halliday has left a trail of destruction behind her...arson, theft, fraud, and at least one suspicious death! But in this episode, her crimes take a truly horrifying turn. After a year in a mental institution, Lizzie is released back into the care of her much older husband, Paul Halliday. His family and neighbors are... Continue Reading →

Lizzie Halliday is back, and somehow, she’s only getting started. In this episode, we pick up where we left off—with Lizzie abandoning another husband, scamming her way into new homes, and setting literal fires along the way. She takes her insurance fraud scheme to new levels, makes a scene at her father’s grave, and leaves... Continue Reading →

Lizzie Halliday is often called America’s first female serial killer, but long before she made headlines, she was already leaving a trail of chaos behind her. In this episode, we look at her early years—from her family’s immigration from Ireland to her first marriages and the, let’s say, unfortunate fates of the men in her life. Lizzie... Continue Reading →

In this episode of Fresh Hell, we’re heading up to the remote and brutal heights of the Säntis mountain in Switzerland, where, in February 1922, Heinrich and Magdalena Haas were found murdered in their isolated weather station. Their killer? A man they knew, a man who had once wanted Heinrich’s job, and a man who decided to settle his grudge in the... Continue Reading →

In our final episode on the world of Freak Shows, we’re closing the curtain with the incredible, tragic, and sometimes triumphant stories of the performers themselves. Meet Schlitzie, the performer who inspired Freaks (1932), a beloved and misunderstood figure of the sideshow world. Krao, the so-called “Missing Link,” whose life challenges the cruel narratives forced upon her. Myrtle Corbin, the "Four-Legged... Continue Reading →

This week, we’re bringing you two of the most fascinating and deeply unsettling stories from the world of freak shows: Chang & Eng Bunker, the original Siamese twins, and Julia Pastrana, the so-called ‘Bear Woman.’ Chang and Eng weren’t just a medical curiosity—they were brilliant businessmen, plantation owners, and, oh yeah, enslavers. Their story is full of contradictions—two men who were once paraded as... Continue Reading →

In this final part of our Barnum deep dive, we cover his biggest spectacle yet—The Greatest Show on Earth. From the moment he took his circus on the road to his partnership with James A. Bailey, we explore how Barnum turned entertainment into an empire. And of course, we wrap up with the ultimate Barnum... Continue Reading →

In this episode, we pick up where we left off with P.T. Barnum. We’ll talk about how he turned Scudder’s American Museum into a New York sensation, why General Tom Thumb became a global star, and the controversy around Joice Heth. There’s also the devastating fire that destroyed the museum(s), Barnum’s first steps into the... Continue Reading →

In December 1984, Kingston Falls, Pennsylvania, went from a quiet, festive town to the scene of absolute chaos, all thanks to one ill-considered Christmas gift. A set of very specific rules wasn’t followed, and the result was something no one in town could have imagined. We’ll talk about what happened that night, how things went... Continue Reading →

In this episode, Annie takes us to the historic town of Sandwich, Massachusetts, for a chilling true crime case set against the backdrop of 19th-century Cape Cod. Learn about the Christmas night murder of 15-year-old Daniel Fogarty Jr. in 1857, the mob mentality fueled by alcohol and gambling, and the tragic events that led to... Continue Reading →

In this episode Johanna takes us to the quiet, rural landscapes of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, to tell you about the tragic case of Robert Syrokowski. On a freezing December night in 2002, 18-year-old Robert disappeared after leaving a nightclub and was later found dead, struck by a car in the middle of a desolate road. But... Continue Reading →

In part two, we focus on the aftermath of the Bloody Benders’ crimes and their shocking methods of murder. The gruesome discoveries at their property reveal the extent of their brutality, and we share stories of those who narrowly escaped their deadly trap. We also look at their dramatic flight from justice, the many theories... Continue Reading →

In this episode, we examine the chilling story of the Bloody Benders, America’s infamous serial killer family. Set in 1870s Kansas, we recount the Bender family’s arrival in Labette County and the dark secrets concealed behind their seemingly ordinary inn on the Osage Trail. We explore the family’s unsettling behavior, the growing rumors about disappearances... Continue Reading →

In this episode, we talk about the mysterious disappearances of three young men: Christopher Thompkins, Christopher Matthew Kerze, and Steven Clark. Each case is haunting and unexplained, though only Thompkins' disappearance fits within the so-called "Missing 411" phenomenon—a term used to describe unusual and often inexplicable disappearances in wilderness areas. Each story shines a light... Continue Reading →

In this spine-tingling episode, we dive into the haunted legacies of two military legends: Pausanias, the ancient Spartan general with a cursed afterlife, and Mad Anthony Wayne, whose restless ghost reportedly wanders to this day. From ancient Greece to post-Revolutionary War America, we explore the eerie tales that have kept these spirits alive in folklore.... Continue Reading →

The iconic Hotel Chelsea is more than just a New York City landmark; it’s a haunting ground for some of the most legendary ghosts in history. In this episode, Johanna and Ingrid explore the eerie tales of the hotel’s past residents—some of whom never checked out. From the tragic death of punk rock icon Sid... Continue Reading →

It's this time of the year again: Spooky Fuckery Month is upon us! This week, we dive into a Jeopardy category that immediately caught our attention: GHOSTS! In the first part, we discuss the most famous laundry ghost in the White House, Abigail Adams. Then, we explore the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, home to the mirror... Continue Reading →

In the final chapter of the Elfriede Blauensteiner case, we dive into the investigation that finally brought her to justice. We’ll discuss the twists and turns of her trials, the chilling courtroom moments, and the final verdict that sealed her fate. As we follow her journey behind bars, we’ll also explore her time in prison,... Continue Reading →

In this episode, we continue the dark and twisted journey of Elfriede Blauensteiner, picking up where we left off—her meeting with second husband Rudolf Blauensteiner. From there, we look at the chilling details of her life as a serial killer, driven by greed and a deadly addiction to gambling. Discover how she preyed on her... Continue Reading →

Born during the Great Depression in 1931 Vienna, Elfriede Blauensteiner's early life was marked by hardship, a cold and distant mother, and the looming shadow of World War II. In this episode, we explore her difficult upbringing, her troubled first marriage, and her eventual meeting with Rudolf Blauensteiner, her second husband. But this is no... Continue Reading →

In this heartwarming episode, we dive into the incredible world of interspecies friendships, where the laws of nature bend in the name of love, loyalty, and companionship. We explore the touching stories of Chito and Pocho, the Costa Rican fisherman and his beloved crocodile; Molly and Peggy, the unlikely duo of a rescued magpie and... Continue Reading →

In part two we talk about the the mysteries surrounding Ötzi's final days and hours. We explore what his last meal tells about the era, the harrowing details of his violent death, and the eerie curse that some believe haunts those who’ve come into contact with him. From the meticulous preservation of his body in... Continue Reading →

In this chilly"" episode Johanna tells Anie all about the story of Ötzi the Iceman, the world's most fashionable mummy from the Copper Age. Discovered in the Ötztal Alps, Ötzi’s well-preserved body and unique wardrobe give us a fascinating glimpse into life over 5,000 years ago. Join us as we explore the practical yet innovative... Continue Reading →

Dive into the fascinating, chaotic, and downright quirky world of the 1900 Paris Olympics in this episode! We'll unravel the strange stories that made these Games unlike any other, from the scandalous tug-of-war showdown to the marathon madness where shortcuts and cyclists played starring roles. Discover how the British Royals set the modern marathon distance.... Continue Reading →

From Guyana to Tragedy – The Fall of Jonestown In this final episode, we follow Jim Jones and the Peoples Temple from their initial move to Guyana to the harrowing events that culminated in the Jonestown massacre. Discover the challenges of life in the isolated settlement, the increasing paranoia and control exerted by Jones, and... Continue Reading →

The 1970s – Allegations, Media Scrutiny, and the Move to Guyana In the 1970s, Jim Jones and the Peoples Temple faced escalating allegations of abuse and manipulation. As media scrutiny intensified, Jones leased land in Guyana to create Jonestown, a supposed utopian society. This episode explores the controversial move to South America and the beginning... Continue Reading →

Jim Jones' Path to Guyana: In this episode, we continue the story of Jim Jones, focusing on the pivotal years from his meeting with his future wife, Marceline, to the scandalous sexual assault allegations in the 1970s that precipitated the move to Guyana. Discover how Jones' marriage influenced his burgeoning ministry, his founding of the... Continue Reading →

The Making of a Cult Leader: Jim Jones' Early Years" In this episode, we delve into the early life of Jim Jones, the leader of the Peoples Temple. Join us as we explore his childhood in rural Indiana, the influence of his parents, and the formative experiences that shaped his path. From his upbringing and... Continue Reading →

In this poignant final episode, Annie chronicles the heartbreaking journey from the moment President James A. Garfield was shot at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station to his untimely death and the nation's mourning. On July 2, 1881, Garfield was struck by an assassin's bullet, setting off a desperate struggle for survival that captivated the... Continue Reading →

This week Annie covers the dramatic events that unfolded from James A. Garfield's election as the 20th President of the United States to the turbulent days leading up to his assassination. We follow Charles Julius Guiteau, a disgruntled office seeker whose delusions of grandeur and failed ambitions led him to plot the assassination of President... Continue Reading →

In this gripping episode, we unravel the tumultuous life of Charles Julius Guiteau, the man notorious for assassinating President James A. Garfield. Born into a dysfunctional family in Freeport, Illinois, Guiteau's early life was marked by instability and mental health struggles. Explore his erratic journey through failed ventures in law, theology, and politics, revealing the... Continue Reading →

This week Annie dives deep into the fascinating life of President James A. Garfield, exploring his humble beginnings and remarkable journey to the White House. Born into poverty in a log cabin in Ohio, Garfield's early life was marked by hardship and determination. Discover how his family's struggles shaped his character and instilled a relentless... Continue Reading →

This is the full interview with Kellie's sister Amanda. She talks about her memories of her older sister, how the horrible crime impacted her whole family,and about the newest developments in the case.

This week we explore the rich tapestry of Austrian folklore with some captivating sagas and legends, steeped in history, myth, and tradition. Delve into the mystical world of ancient tales passed down through generations, offering glimpses into the soul of Austria's cultural heritage. Der Teufel und die Bognerin (The Devil and the Bowmaker's Wife): Discover... Continue Reading →

This week we continue the fascinating tale of Eugène-François Vidocq, a notorious criminal turned pioneering crime fighter. After a life of crime, Vidocq embarks on a journey of redemption, transforming himself into one of history's most influential figures in law enforcement. From his groundbreaking work in undercover operations to his innovative approaches in criminal investigation,... Continue Reading →

Today we are talking about the captivating life of Eugène François Vidocq, the enigmatic figure who transformed from notorious criminal to legendary detective. Join us as we delve into the shadowy alleys of 18th-century France, where Vidocq's daring escapes, dramatic encounters, and unexpected alliances paint a portrait of resilience and redemption. From his tumultuous youth... Continue Reading →

This week Johanna talks about the German serial killer Karl Hopf, who poisoned several members of his family in a span of 5 years.

This week Johanna talks about the German serial killer Karl Hopf, who poisoned several members of his family in a span of 5 years.

On December 2, 1983, Kellie Jean Poppleton, just 14 years old, was found lifeless on the desolate side of Kilkare Road in Sunol, California. Now, thirty-eight years later, her tragic death remains a haunting enigma, etched in the memories of those who seek answers. We talked to her sister, Amanda, who is still looking for... Continue Reading →

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the city of New Orleans became the backdrop for a gruesome crime that shook the nation, Addie Hall's murder by her boyfriend Zack Bowen.

This week Johanna tells you all about the story of "Zack & Addie" who met shortly before hurricane Katrina made landfall in summer of 2005.

This week we delve into the cataclysmic forces of nature, exploring the most devastating tsunamis, hurricanes, and tornadoes in recorded history. Learn all about these harrowing tales of destruction as we tell you about the real-life encounters with these monstrous phenomena, highlighting the unparalleled power they unleash upon our planet. From the infamous 2004 Indian... Continue Reading →

In this crucial episode, we delve into indispensable safety guidelines for navigating the unpredictable realms of fire and earthquakes. We dissect emergency protocols, evacuation strategies, and essential preparedness measures, ensuring you're armed with life-saving knowledge. Join us as we explore the critical intersection of resilience, community safety, and disaster response in the face of these... Continue Reading →

Vienna in the middle of the post war era, still divided into four occupational zones by the Allied Forces! A police officer finds the body of the famous Chocolate King from Alsergrund: Johann Arthold. Soon a suspect is found in the 23 year old bar girl Adrienne Eckhard. Eckhardt presented a bizarre story involving a... Continue Reading →

Today we unearth the dark origins of Valentine's Day, an ancient tale of beheadings, forbidden romances, and the eerie echoes of the Roman festival of Lupercalia. Witness the haunting transformation from ancient rituals to the worldwide commercial embrace of modern Valentine's Day. Also, we will tell you about the infamous Valentine's Day Massacre, and the... Continue Reading →

In this third and final part Johanna tells you everything about Yossi Ghinsberg's fight for survival in the Bolivian jungle, you'll hear all about his ordeal, his rescue and the fate of Markus Stamm and Karl Ruprechter.

This week we talk about what happened to Yossi Ghinsberg, Kevin Gale, Markus Stamm and Karl Ruprechter, after they decided to turn around and had back to Asariamas. And why the group ultimately splits up right there, in the Bolivian jungle.

In 1981 Yossi Ghinsberg, an Israeli adventurer, embarked on a perilous Amazonian expedition with companions Kevin Gale,Markus Stamm and a guide, Karl Ruprechter. The quartet navigated the dense jungle, facing challenges such as torrential rain, treacherous terrain, and wildlife encounters. Amidst the wilderness, the group aimed to discover uncharted territories, driven by a sense of... Continue Reading →

Kate Warne, a pioneering figure in the field of private investigation, is best known as the first female detective in the United States. She was hired by Allan Pinkerton, the founder of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency, in 1856. This week Annie tells us about the case she and her fellow detectives solved in "Atkinson"... Continue Reading →

Annie & Johanna speak with Ingrid, from Hamburg, who shares the harrowing true story of her husband’s kidnapping

The New Years holiday is a celebration of new beginnings. With that in mind, we know this collaboration will introduce you to several amazing new true-crime podcasts that will quickly become your newest true-crime binges as we enter 2024 because, let’s face it, we know that’s exactly what you needed! With tons of episodes each,... Continue Reading →

This week we are taking a scathing look at how White Collar Crimes affect working class families, from putting presents under the Christmas Tree to the American Dream of home ownership

This week we are talking about the suspects in the Clutter Family Murders, the arrest of the killers Richard Hickock and Perry Smith, and the involvement of Truman Capote and Harper Lee in the case that led to the book "In Cold Blood"

In the quiet town of Holcomb, Kansas, the Clutter family's idyllic life was shattered on the fateful night of November 15, 1959. The brutal and senseless murders of Herb and Bonnie Clutter, alongside their two teenage children, shocked the nation. The killers, Perry Smith and Richard "Dick" Hickock, left behind a gruesome crime scene that... Continue Reading →

In part 2 we conclude our coverage of the devastating explosion which destroyed Halifax, Nova Scotia in December 1917. We examine the heroic acts of survivors, why the military presence was crucial in the aftermath, and how the city coped with the growing number of dead.Also discussed are the tremendous impact of  Dr. Clement Ligoure,... Continue Reading →

On 6. December 1917, the busy WWI port of Halifax, Nova Scotia was devastated by the largest man made explosion the world had ever seen. We discuss the devastation and heroism in the aftermath of this tragedy. 

This week we are talking about Jane, Arnna, and Grant Beaumont, three siblings who disappeared without a trace from Glenelg Beach near Adelaide, Australia, on January 26, 1966. We will be discussing theories, clairvoyants and the main suspects in this case, that remains one of Australia’s most infamous unsolved mysteries.

This wee we are talking about Jane, Arnna, and Grant Beaumont, three siblings who disappeared without a trace from Glenelg Beach near Adelaide, Australia, on January 26, 1966. The case remains one of Australia's most infamous unsolved mysteries, with numerous theories and investigations over the years yielding no conclusive answers. Despite extensive efforts by law... Continue Reading →

On Halloween 2023, convicted murderer Joran van der Sloot left the United States for his prison cell in Peru, after finally confessing to the murder of Natalee Holloway. This update will catch you up with where things stand now.

This Halloween, thirteen true crime podcasts (including Fresh Hell Podcast) come together to share dark and disturbing stories. From haunted houses to serial killers, these tales will send chills down your spine and keep you up at night. Join us for this special 2-part Halloween episode entitled "When Darkness Calls" as we explore the darkest... Continue Reading →

This Halloween, thirteen true crime podcasts (including Fresh hell Podcast) come together to share dark and disturbing stories. From haunted houses to serial killers, these tales will send chills down your spine and keep you up at night. Join us for this special 2-part Halloween episode entitled "When Darkness Calls" as we explore the darkest... Continue Reading →

It's time for our annual Halloween episode, where we share our listener's stories of the unexplained, the weird, the inspiring, and of course, the spooky...

This week Annie talks about El Campo Santo, the historic cemetery located in Old Town San Diego. The cemetery dates back to the early 19th century and was used for the burials of prominent figures and residents of Old Town San Diego. Is the place really haunted by it's own past? Let's find out

Today we talk about why we love a murder-when it’s a murder of crows! We look at the Raven & Crow through history, and shed light on the occasionally dark past of these brilliant birds. From Canada’s beloved Canuck the Crow, to the Ravens at the Tower of London, we’ll tell you everything about these... Continue Reading →

Today we discuss the history of the infamous A3 motorway in Croatia, where talented young Macedonian singer Todor ‘Toše’ Proeski among others were tragically killed… We ponder the terrifying Melon Heads on Jeremy Swamp Road in Connecticut, USA  In Hong Kong, we visit Tuen Mun Road, possibly one of the most haunted roads in the... Continue Reading →

This week Johanna talks about an infamous Austrian cold case, the murder of a young model…Ilona Faber, that happened on 14. April 1958. Her body was found in the center of Vienna, buried hastily in a flower bed, behind a War Memorial.

In the conclusion of this horrific case, we discuss the murder known as ‘The Plaistow Horror,’ and discuss the possible reasons for this terrible crime, and question what we know about criminal reformation.

In 1895 13 year old Robert Allen Coombes committed a crime in London’s East end that the horrified media dubbed ‘The Plaistow Horror.’ Today, in part 1, we discuss Robert’s early life, as well as the shocking murder of Florence Dennis at the hands of the ‘Southend Murderer,’ James C. Read, a case Coombes was fascinated... Continue Reading →

Today Annie takes us to the beautiful village of Brewster on Cape Cod Bay, in the late 1800s, and tells us the terrible story of the murder of Sadie Hassard after being stalked and murdered by a rejected suitor.

Today we look back on some of the most interesting deaths in history. We discuss Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar, his rule in Persia, now modern day Iran, and his violent death. We discuss the death of General John Sedgwick, Union army hero, on the battlefield at Spotsylvania. We’ll cover death by very long beard, and ponder the merits... Continue Reading →

In today’s, we look back at two of the most infamous cats in history. Simon the Shipcat, who was the only cat in history to ever receive the Dickin Medal for his outstanding bravery and the comfort he gave the crew of the HMS Amethyst in a dire situation.And another ship cat, The Unsinkable Sam,... Continue Reading →

In our final episode on the Amityville Horror we discuss the investigation by the Warrens and do our best to answer the most common questions. We also try to debunk some of the popular rumors surrounding the house on Ocean Avenue in Amityville, NY. We'll discuss some of the most popular skeptical views on the... Continue Reading →

A year after the horrible murders of the DeFeo family, George Lutz and his family purchased the beautiful home on Ocean Avenue in Amityville, NY. Today we tell their true story as told by Jay Anson’s 1977 book, “The Amityville Horror.”

In 1974 a terrible crime rocked the town of Amityville, NY, when Ronnie DeFeo Jr murdered 6 members of his own family. In our 2ooth episode special we talk about their story

The conclusion of the horrific and brazen attacks in Austin, Texas from New Year’s Eve 1885 to Christmas Eve, 1885. Among the murdered are Mollie Smith, Eliza Shelly, Irene Cross, Mary Ramey, Gracie Vance, Orange Washington, Susan Hancock and Eula Philips. More survivors would be forever haunted by these vicious attacks. We‘ll discuss these crimes... Continue Reading →

Austin 1885: a series of brutal crimes shock the growing city! The victims of the brutal crimes: predominantly young women who worked as servants in the area. This week Annie and Johanna talk about the city Austin, and the first victims of the Axe murderer, Mollie Smith, Clara Strand and Christine Martenson, Eliza Shelly, Irene... Continue Reading →

ceana  Wardlaw Martin Snead, called Ocey by her family, was a young woman, an excellent student and well liked by the whole community. When she fell ill, everybody worried about her. Well, maybe not everybody! It was her own family who had sinister plans for the young mother of two, who died in 1909.

In November, 1979, Robert Taylor, forestry worker and WWII veteran, experienced something terrifying in a clearing in the woods of Livingston, outside of Edinburgh, Scotland. This is perhaps the only UFO encounter formally investigated by police. Could there have been a reasonable explanation for what Bob Taylor experienced that day? Tell us what you think. 

Is Hänsel & Gretel based on real historical events? Was Little Red Riding Hood once a way darker story? nd how did a cursed frog truly turn back into the prince? Today Johanna tells us just how horrifyingly gruesome these original tales were. Don’t let your kids listen to these old school fairy tales!

From poisonous eye drops and mouse fur eyebrows to leaded face powder…we'll dive into how, historically, you could remove your hair, your teeth and your life, all in one sitting!

Today we discuss the terrible, story of Charles Ayer, family annihilator. What led up to that snowy New Hampshire day in January, 1906 that would leave 8 members of a family dead?  We’ll tell you everything we know about this tragedy.

In part 3 we discuss the aftermath of Natascha’s escape from Wolfgang Priklopil. We’ll also discuss the rumors, conspiracy theories and other mysterious deaths linked to the abduction of Natascha Kampusch.

Today Johanna continues the story of the abduction of 10 year old Natascha Kampusch on her walk to school in Vienna, Austria. We discuss her prison, her captor, and her daring escape after being held captive for 8 long years.

In 1998 the abduction of 10 year old Natascha Kampusch while on her way to school in Vienna, Austria stunned residents of this normally safe community. Today Johanna tells Annie the early life of Natascha and of her kidnapper, Wolfgang Přiklopil. 

In today’s more lighthearted episode, we look back at two of the most infamous dogs in history. Greyfriar’s Bobby, Edinburgh Scotland’s most loyal dog, a Terrier who rests beside his beloved human in the stunningly spooky Greyfriar’s Kirkyard. Also, Smoky, the ’Yorkie Doodle Dandy, ‘ whose mysterious appearance in a foxhole during World War II... Continue Reading →

Today we cover the grand larceny trial of Guy Rockwell, and the lack of a homicide trial for Manzanita or Dolores Mearns. We also discuss the fact that Guy married Ruth Marie Terry in 1974, months before her partially dismembered body was found. Ruth was identified as the Lady of the Dunes on Halloween 2022. Today... Continue Reading →

In part 2 of 3, we discuss the mountain of evidence indicating Guy Rockwell, (who married Ruth Marie Terry, aka ‘The Lady of the Dunes’ in 1974), brutally murdered his second wife, Manzanita and her daughter, Dolores Mearns in Seattle, in April of 1960. We’ll discuss what he was up to when authorities were searching... Continue Reading →

On Halloween 2022, it was announced that the unsolved murder victim from Provincetown, Cape Cod known as The Lady of the Dunes had been identified through genealogical DNA, she was Ruth Marie Terry.Only months before her body was found, Ruth married Guy Rockwell, one of many aliases this man was known by. Today, we’ll discuss... Continue Reading →

Today we return to the Beelitz Heilstätten, once a state of the art hospital dedicated to the care of those with tuberculosis, today it is perhaps one of the most haunted locations in Europe. Johanna discusses and debunks (when possible), the claims of Nazi experiments at the site, and tales of bizarre and terrifying paranormal... Continue Reading →

How did the Beelitz Heilstätten go from a state of the art, self sufficient paragon of modern Tiberculosis treatment to one of the most haunted buildings in Europe (allegedly)?Today Johanna tells us about the history of this building, and some of the infamous figures it helped save. Next week, the many horrors that followed…

From frogs in your milk to secretly dosing your guests with an aphrodisiac…  we discuss some of the most interesting menu items in history, including of course,   The Roast Without Equal.   Join us for a macabre menu

Today we discuss the tragic and gruesome death of 14 year old Johanne Elizabeth "Bertha" Schippan. The youngest daughter of German immigrants who settled in Towitta, South Australia and practiced their Lutheran faith, in this remote landscape. This untimely death is still unsolved, and the clues left behind are truly baffling. In a shocking twist,... Continue Reading →

This week we discuss one of the most terrifying and well-documented hauntings in US history.  This week's sponsor: http://www.artofcrimepodcast.com End credits: 🎵 Deck the Halls | Rafael Krux Provided By: Audio Library Link: https://youtu.be/e1Xlu4xM1jg © License: CCA 4.0 : https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...

This week Annie & Johanna conclude the Ashland Tragedy and tell you all you need to know about the trials agains George Ellis, William Neal and Ellis Craft, and all the mayhem that came with it.

In the early morning hours of Christmas Eve, 1881, a terrible fire devastated the community of Ashland, Kentucky. But their sorrow turned to outrage when they realized three teenagers had not perished tragically in a fire, but had been the victims of something much more sinister…

In Part 2 Annie discusses the theories of who the woman found dead at the Hotel Del Coronado might be, based on what little evidence we have. Lottie Bernard? Lizzie Wylie? Kate Morgan?  Someone else, entirely? Some of the impressive paranormal activity at the hotel is also discussed.

The Hotel Del Coronado, is the largest wooden Victorian resort hotel in the world. On Thanksgiving Day, 1892 a beautiful young woman checked in, using the unaccompanied ladies entrance. Five days later, her lifeless body was found on the steps leading to the beach. This was only the beginning of a series of baffling clues;... Continue Reading →

Today we discuss Lowell Lee Andrews- a bright university student, and beloved son of a happy family living in Kansas. On Thanksgiving day, 1958, he murdered his father William, his mother Opal, and his sister, Jennie Marie, for reasons sure to infuriate you as much as they do us. 

December 1910 in Vienna: a janitor makes a gruesome discovery. Who murdered the 40 year old women and dismembered her, and why? Johanna tells you about the murder of Luise Weiss, commited by her "friend", Marie Bartunek This week's sponsor: The Art of Crime Podcast .https://www.artofcrimepodcast.com/ E174: Luise Weiss

E173: Halloween 2022

Today we discuss how the idea of tainted Halloween candy became such a popular urban legend, and how a few specific terrible incidents have fueled this myth over the decades. First, a woman who snapped after too many teenagers rang her bell, and second we discuss the truly terrible story of the death of 8... Continue Reading →

Today we take a look at the history of vampires, the various categories of vampire, and how to survive an attack, should you happen to catch the eye of one. Join us for a more light hearted look at the history of the Vampire in literature and lore, as we celebrate the ancient legend of... Continue Reading →

To begin spooky season, we discuss the alleged curse of the hit horror film Poltergeist. With ghastly rumors and more than one tragic death, there is plenty of fuel for the curse theory…but was there really a curse? You decide… E170: The Poltergeist Curse

This week we are talking about a couple of surgeries in history that will make you go "Oh, boy!". We talk about King Louis XIV and his dental problems and men who were not scared of cutting themselves open.  E169: Surgeries

In the conclusion of this tragic story, we discuss the murders of Isabella and John Joyce in woods that are now part of Boston’s Arnold Arboretum, and the terrible murder of 13 year old Georgianna Lovering in Northwood, New Hampshire. Was the right person hanged for these crimes, or did someone get away with murder?... Continue Reading →

1850, a 5 year old child is taken from her home in Derry, New Hampshire. 1862, 9 year old Lura Vellie Libby does not arrive at her Sunday School. Her body is found the next day near her family’s farm in Maine. 1865 in Boston, siblings Isabella and John Joyce leave their grandmothers house in... Continue Reading →

Today we discuss the bizarre and disturbing fate of Maria Elena Milagro de Hoyos, at the hands of Carl Tanzler, her would be suitor and probably fraudulent doctor, who was also a definitely fraudulent Count. Could he possibly cure the beautiful young Cuban American woman of her tuberculosis, in 1930s Key West?  E166: Maria Elena Milagro... Continue Reading →