The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told

Jenny Geddes and Her Revolutionary Stool

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look all the way back to seventeenth century Scotland, to Jenny Geddes and her revolutionary acts. It's the story of the butterfly effect, the impact one voice can have on a nation, and empires' intent on controlling us.

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• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer

Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order Mary Kay's true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Real Scarlet Letter

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we examine the story of Sarah Cornell, a young Methodist textile worker who was the inspiration for Hester Prynne in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter. The difference, of course, is that Hester Prynne wasn’t murdered. And she certainly didn’t kill herself.

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Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order Mary Kay's true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out Kate Winkler Dawson's book The Sinners All Bow at Penguin Random House

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Snakehead of Chinatown

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the underground world of Sister Ping. It's a story about desperation, ambition, and the shadowy world of human smuggling. It’s about the lengths people will go in search of a better life—and those who build their empires by making that journey possible.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Grace Heerman

Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order Mary Kay's true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Sources

Check out Patrick Radden Keefe's book 'The Snakehead' at Pan Macmillan

Read 'A Path out of Purgatory' by Patrick Radden Keefe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teresita Basa: Stretching the Boundaries of Belief

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, a woman comes back from the dead to solve her own murder, something beyond the realm of what most people consider possible. And yet, the story of Teresita Basa was credible enough to appear in a U.S. court of law, come before a judge and jury, and send a man to jail for murder.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Zoe Louisa Lewis

Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

SOURCES

General

https://books.google.ca/books?id=CM4DAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA56&lpg=PA56&dq=allan%2Bshowery%2Bjob%2Bedgewater&source=bl&ots=dS98q23rpz&sig=ACfU3U3EjQ7VZNBaUSThOMZEh_O0gVvLGQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwisuLnG-b72AhUGa80KHd84DwYQ6AF6BAg0EAM#v=onepage&q=allan%20showery%20job%20edgewater&f=false

https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/1978/09/17/voice-from-the-grave-evokes-a-murder-trial/13b6d805-2413-4015-b70a-b9b28ab5d40d/

https://jimharold.com/the-strange-and-sad-case-of-teresita-basa-by-em-hilker/

Chuas Obituary

https://legacy.suntimes.com/us/obituaries/chicagosuntimes/name/jose-chua-obituary?id=30203

Possession in the Philippines

https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/central-luzon-state-university/psychological-assessment/understanding-spirit-possession-in-the-philippines/67778613

https://www.aswangproject.com/spirit-possession-sapi-in-the-philippines/#google_vignette

https://pssc.org.ph/wp-content/pssc-archives/Philippine%20Journal%20of%20Psychology/2004/Num%202/05_Dissociative%20Symptoms%20in%20Filipino%20College%20Students.pdf

https://www.iheart.com/content/2023-10-17-classes-cancelled-at-high-school-in-philippines-following-mass-possession/

https://www.newsflare.com/video/520014/seven-students-exorcised-after-being-possessed-by-evil-spirits-in-the-philippines

Edgewater Hospital

https://www.edgewaterhistory.org/ehs/local/rise-and-fall-of-edgewater-hospital

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Woman Who Went Off the Grid

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we examine the story of Rebecca Vance: one of a mother’s misdirected love, the line between self-determination and mental illness, and the way conspiracy theories can compel us to make very dangerous decisions, even in the name of safety.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

SOURCES

The Women Who Walked Away, Elizabeth Weil

“Please I Will Give Anything for You to Come Back,” Ted Conover

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diane Schuler: The Wrong Way Home

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the story of an ordinary suburban mom, Diane Schuler, who did something extraordinarily terrible. And how the people who were left to pick up the pieces found themselves asking the same question over and over again, why?

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out Jackie Hance's book on Diane Schuler: 'I'll See You Again' at Simon and Schuster

SOURCES

Transcript for the HBO Doc

https://transcripts.cnn.com/show/se/date/2013-05-25/segment/03

Taconic State Parkway

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-york/deadliest-road-ny/
https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/18/nyregion/18taconic.html

Police Report

https://www.autopsyfiles.org/reports/policereport/schuler,%20diane_police_report.pdf

Pre Autopsy News Stories

https://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/31/nyregion/31funeral.html

Post Autopsy Stories

https://nymag.com/news/features/62043/
https://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/07/nyregion/07taconic.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/08/nyregion/08bigcity.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/06/nyregion/06crash.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/07/nyregion/07crash.html
https://www.comingsoon.net/documentaries/news/1721259-theres-something-wrong-with-aunt-diane-did-anyone-survive-taconic-parkway-crash
https://nypost.com/2009/08/06/wed-woes-drove-crash-ma-to-drink/

Lawsuits

https://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/11/nyregion/11taconic.html?searchResultPosition=5
https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/settlements-reached-in-4-taconic-parkway-wrong-way-crash-lawsuits/
https://abcnews.go.com/Health/MindMoodNews/jackie-hance-lost-daughters-taconic-crash-sues-daniel-schuler/story?id=14169392
https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/report-widower-sues-state-after-tragic-wrong-way-crash-on-taconic-parkway/
https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/husband-of-taconic-driver-sues-state-in-law/1924357/

TIA

https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/types-of-stroke/tia-transient-ischemic-attack

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harvard's Forgotten Murder/Suicide

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the collegiate tragedy of Sinedu Tedesse: friendship gone wrong, the limits of human ambition, and the dark underbelly of the American dream. Because the thing they don’t tell you about having your greatest dream come true, is what to do with yourself afterwards.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

SOURCES

The Harvard Student Who Killed Her Roommate, Melanie Thernstrom
Harvard Deaths Leave a Puzzle Whose Central Piece May Never Be Found, Fox Butterfield
Hostage to The Past: The 1995 Murder Suicide in Dunster, Hillary A. McLauchlin
Rethinking the American Dream: The Cost of Coming to America: Immigration and Depression in the Case of Sinedu Tadesse, Menna Demessie
Halfway Heaven: Diary of a Harvard Murder, Melanie Thernstrom

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gloria Allred: The Most Famous Female Lawyer in the World

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the sprawling career and casework of Gloria Allred. She’s an icon who’s been involved in so many major legal cases, OJ, Bill Cosby, the fight for gay marriage, priest abuse cases and AIDS discrimination. She’s seen it all. She’s been practicing law for nearly fifty years, and in that time she’s been a hero, a villain, and everything in between.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

SOURCES

https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1986-04-24-me-1698-story.html
https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-09-05-me-463-story.html
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12970625/Distraught-sister-latest-Rex-Heuermann-victim-weeps-outside-court-says-losing-Maureen-wound-never-truly-heals-Long-Island-serial-killer-pleads-not-guilty.html

East LA Walkouts

https://guides.loc.gov/latinx-civil-rights/east-la-walkouts

Girls Schools

William Allred

Rape

https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/1.4679070

Rita Milla

https://www.bishop-accountability.org/news2007/11_12/2007_12_05_Green_ShatteredFaith.htm
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2002/04/03/forgotten-in-the-flock/
https://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-gloria-allred-20151113-story.html
https://archive.org/details/goodcatholicgirl00bona/page/60/mode/1up?q=%22rita+milla%22

General

Harvey Wienstein

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family Betrayal: The Susie Newsom Lynch Story (Pt 3)

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this third of three parts, we look the troubled life of Susie Newsom Lynch. A story steeped in paranoia and deceit, it has everything you need from a southern gothic tale.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out "Bitter Blood" by Jerry Bledsoe here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family Betrayal: The Susie Newsom Lynch Story (Pt 2)

Tue, 27 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this second of three parts, we look the troubled life of Susie Newsom Lynch. A story steeped in paranoia and deceit, it has everything you need from a southern gothic tale.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out "Bitter Blood" by Jerry Bledsoe here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family Betrayal: The Susie Newsom Lynch Story (Pt 1)

Tue, 20 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this first of three parts, we look the troubled life of Susie Newsom Lynch. A story steeped in paranoia and deceit, it has everything you need from a southern gothic tale.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out "Bitter Blood" by Jerry Bledsoe here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coco Chanel and the Aryan Laws (Pt 2)

Tue, 13 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In the second of two parts, we look at the fallout of Coco Chanel's relations with Nazis during their rule over Paris in WW2.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out more on 'Devil's Rooming House' by Hal Vaughn at Penguin Random House

SOURCES

Albanesi, Melanie. “Coco Chanel: Fashion Designer, Nazi Informant.” PBS. January 3, 2022.
Pinnock, Olivia. “Do Coco Chanel’s Nazi Connections Matter For Fashion Today?” Forbes.
James, Caryn. “The truth about Coco Chanel and the Nazis.” BBC. 2024.
Mah, Ann. “This Picture Tells a Tragic Story of What Happened to Women After D-Day.” Time. June 6, 2018.
Mazzeo, Tilar J. The Secret of Chanel No. 5. Harper. Nov 9, 2010.
McAuley, James. “The Exchange: Coco Chanel and the Nazi Party.” The New Yorker. August 31, 2011.
Paton, Elizabeth. “Chanel Publishes Annual Results for First Time in 108 Years.” The New York Times. June 21, 2018.
Vaughan, Hal. Sleeping with the Enemy: Coco Chanel's Secret War. Vintage. 2011.
Wars of Coco Chanel documentary.
Becoming Chanel documentary.
Thomas, Dana. “The Power Behind the Cologne.” The New York Times Magazine. Feb 24, 2002.
Villani, Anna. “WHO OWNS CHANEL? The Wertheimer family. But, who are they?” The Vintage Bar. Jan 7, 2021.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coco Chanel and the Aryan Laws (Pt 1)

Tue, 06 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this first of two parts, we examine the lives, public and private, of Coco Chanel in the wake of the France's fall in WW2. Though all had to make due with the new conditions, Coco fared better than others in this new life.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer

Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out more on 'Devil's Rooming House' by Hal Vaughn at Penguin Random House

SOURCES

Albanesi, Melanie. “Coco Chanel: Fashion Designer, Nazi Informant.” PBS. January 3, 2022.
Pinnock, Olivia. “Do Coco Chanel’s Nazi Connections Matter For Fashion Today?” Forbes.
James, Caryn. “The truth about Coco Chanel and the Nazis.” BBC. 2024.
Mazzeo, Tilar J. The Secret of Chanel No. 5. Harper. Nov 9, 2010.
McAuley, James. “The Exchange: Coco Chanel and the Nazi Party.” The New Yorker. August 31, 2011.
Vaughan, Hal. Sleeping with the Enemy: Coco Chanel's Secret War. Vintage. 2011.
Wars of Coco Chanel documentary.
Becoming Chanel documentary.
Thomas, Dana. “The Power Behind the Cologne.” The New York Times Magazine. Feb 24, 2002.
Villani, Anna. “WHO OWNS CHANEL? The Wertheimer family. But, who are they?” The Vintage Bar. Jan 7, 2021.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Real Witches of Macbeth

Tue, 06 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this bonus episode, we look into the mysterious lore behind Shakespeare's 'Weyward Sisters" from Macbeth. Did you know those three women, the weird sisters, the three witches who prophesied Macbeth’s ascendance… did you know those women really existed?

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out 'Sleeping With the Enemy' by William Phillips here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Gold Club: Sex in the Champagne Room

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we dive into the infamous Gold Club, Atlanta's premiere strip club in the 1990s. It’s the story of some of the most beautiful and clever women in the world, and the men who manipulated them to become accomplices in wide scale, mafia-funded fraud.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out 'Investigating America's Most Notorious Strip Club: The FBI, The Gold Club, and The Mafia' by Mark Sewell at Rowman and Littlefield

Dive into the documentary 'Sex in the Champagne Room' at VICE

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Criminal Cremators

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the story of a Family Business, the Lamb Family Funeral Home… which wanted to be a booming business so badly that they allegedly circumvented a lot of laws, and even more ethics, for their profits.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out Ken Englade's "A Family Business" at Diversion Books for a deeper dive on today's subject

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Great Con-Woman of the Gilded Age (Pt 2)

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In part two of two, we dive further into the tales of Cassie Chadwick. She ended up pulling one of the most elaborate cons in American history, securing her legacy alongside the upper-class she so coveted. Stay tuned until the end of the episode for an interview with author of 'The Impostor Heiress: Cassie Chadwick, The Greatest Grifter of the Gilded Age', Annie Reed!

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out Annie Reed's book, 'The Impostor Heiress: Cassie Chadwick, The Greatest Grifter of the Gilded Age' at Diversion Books for a deeper look at Cassie Chadwick.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Great Con-Woman of the Gilded Age (Pt 1)

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In part one of two, we take a look at the story of a woman who wanted into east coast high society… and got there. Cassie Chadwick went by many names to cover her tracks, but ended up pulling one of the greatest cons in American history, securing her legacy alongside the upper-class she so coveted.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

Check out Annie Reed's book, 'The Impostor Heiress: Cassie Chadwick, The Greatest Grifter of the Gilded Age' at Diversion Books for a deeper look at Cassie Chadwick.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Sicilian Photographer Who Shot the Mafia

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode we take a look at Letitzia Batagliga, an acclaimed photojournalist from Palermo, whose stories and art helped legislators end the Cosa Nostra as we know it.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Agatha Christie: The Original Gone Girl

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode we examine the lesser told story of Agatha Christie: that of her sudden disappearance. The beloved crime fiction writer, whose works are still being adapted, starred in her own real-live mystery, a true story of love, loss, and betrayal.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order Lucy Worsley's biography 'Agatha Christie, An Elusive Woman' at Pegasus Books

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Housewife Who Tried To Kill The President (Pt 2)

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:32:36 +0000

This is part two of a two-part series on Sarah Jane Moore, the unlikely woman who wanted to kill the president, and the bizarre life she led…which the headlines never got quite right. Stay until the end for an interview with Geri Spieler, author of 'Housewife Assassin: The Woman Who Tried To Kill The President'.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order 'Housewife Assassin: The Woman Who Tried To Kill The President' by Geri Spieler at Diversion Books

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Housewife Who Tried to Kill the President (Pt 1)

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000

This is part one of a two-part series on Sarah Jane Moore, the unlikely woman who wanted to kill the president, and the bizarre life she led…which the headlines never got quite right.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order 'Housewife Assassin: The Woman Who Tried To Kill The President' by Geri Spieler at Diversion Books

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

True Crime Writing's Gold Standard, Ann Rule... and Her Friend Ted Bundy

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This is the story of Ann Rule, an icon who’s published more than thirty true crime novels, and redefined the genre for an entire generation of Americans. She wrote multiple bestsellers, broke barriers for female crime writers, and unwittingly befriended one of the most notorious serial killers of all time.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer

Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order Ann Rule's 'The Stranger Beside Me' here for a deeper look into this case

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Most Nefarious Welfare Queen

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 06:21:41 +0000

This is the story of Linda Taylor, a woman who seized every opportunity to commit fraud and a whole host of other crimes… and no, that’s not her real name.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order John Levin's 'The Queen: The Forgotten Life Behind an American Myth' here, and listen to his four-part podcast on Linda Taylor here

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pablo Escobar's Hostages

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This is the story of Pablo Escobar's struggle against extradition to the United States and two of the many journalists he kidnapped to leverage the Colombian government, Maruja Pachón and Beatriz Villamizar.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order Gabriel Garcia Márquez's book 'News on a Kidnapping' here

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Postpartum Psychosis Horror Story

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 14:13:24 +0000

This is the story of Andrea Yates and the debilitating effects of postpartum depression in the digital age.

Associate Producer is Leo Culp
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuth

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

Order Suzy Spencer's book 'Breaking Point' here for a deeper dive into Andrea Yates

Pre-order Mary Kay's forthcoming true crime book 'Madame Queen: The The Life and Crimes of Harlem’s Underground Racketeer, Stephanie St. Clair' here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introducing: 'The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told' Season 2

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told S2 is an anthology of the most layered and engrossing true crime stories of female killers, cops, scientists, lawyers, scammers, activists, and more. Hosted by true crime writer, Mary Kay McBrayer, this podcast series tells stories at the intersection of society, justice, and the human psyche, siphoning wisdom and understanding from these truly great stories. New episodes for Season 2 releases on February 11th.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode: True Crime as an Entertainment Genre w/ Keith Wallman

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:01:00 +0000

In this exclusive bonus episode, producer Emma DeMuth sits down with Keith Wallman, Editor-in-Chief of Diversion Books, to discuss the "why" behind the true crime genre.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finding My Brother's Killer

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:01:00 +0000

This is the story of Penny Farmer—who lost her brother at sea in the late 1970s, and never stopped looking for him. Not for 40 years…

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Nora Batelle
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob Bronstein
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Directed by Jacob Bronstein
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special Thanks:

Penny Farmer, Dead in the Water, My Forty-Year Search for My Brother’s Killer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People Don't Sleep in Bras

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:01:00 +0000

This episode is about the murder of Steve Beard…and Steve’s wife’s lover, who shot him.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob Bronstein
Produced and directed by Mark Francis and Antonio Enriquez
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special Thanks:

The Fortune Hunter by Suzy Spencer

Lange, M. (2023, February 16). The case for chilling. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/16/style/sheila-liming-hanging-out-interview.html

NBCUniversal News Group. (2018, March 29). How to make friends as an adult. NBCNews.com. https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/how-make-friends-adult-ncna860971

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Murder Factory (Pt 2)

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 08:01:00 +0000

This is the second episode of a two-episode mini series about the Archer House. It was supposed to be a place where older folks could find comfort, community, and somewhere to call home.

Instead, it was a murder factory.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob Bronstein
Produced, Directed and Edited by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special Thanks:
Devil's Rooming House: The True Story of America's Deadliest Female Serial Killer by M William Phelps

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Murder Factory (Pt 1)

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:01:00 +0000

This is the first episode of a two-episode mini series about the Archer House. It was supposed to be a place where older folks could find comfort, community, and somewhere to call home.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I Survived a Serial Killer

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:01:00 +0000

This is the story of Holly Dunn, the only known survivor of the brutal, bloody crimes of the so-called “railroad killer.” But Holly’s story is also about what she did when she survived: how she found strength, power, and how she showed up for the showdown.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Nora Batelle
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob Bronstein
Produced directed and Edited by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special Thanks to:
Holly Dunn, Sole Survivor

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/sole-survivor-of-railroad-killer-angel-maturino-resendiz-speaks-out-holly-dunn/

http://www.clarkprosecutor.org/html/death/US/resendiz1028.htm

https://www.rainn.org/articles/rape-kit

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The First American Female Serial Killer (Pt 3)

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 08:01:00 +0000

Today’s episode is the finale of our three-part miniseries on “The First American Female Serial Killer", Jane Toppan.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein
Produced, edited, and directed by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special thanks to:

Mary Kay McBrayer, America’s First Female Serial Killer: Jane Toppan and the Making of a Monster
Harold Schechter, Fatal
Harold Schechter, Murderabilia
And in case you’re interested in it, here’s a photo of what Hunyadi Mineral water looks like

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The First American Female Serial Killer (Pt 2)

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:01:00 +0000

We’re continuing our 3-part miniseries on “The First American Female Serial Killer.” It’s a nineteenth century American tale about how an orphan turned indentured servant bootstrapped herself into a mad scientist murderer. In fact, one of the most prolific murderers in history.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein
Produced, edited, and directed by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special thanks to:

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The First American Female Serial Killer (Pt 1)

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:01:00 +0000

This is the first of a three-part miniseries about a precocious little orphan. One who was abused and ignored for so long that her acting-out behaviors eventually escalated to scandalous, multiple murders. Of people who betrayed her. Of people who loved her. And of strangers.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein
Produced, edited, and directed by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special thanks to:

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like a Hot Knife Through Butter

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 08:01:00 +0000

This is the story of a murderous stripper and Vegas showgirl, Marjorie Orbin.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Mary Kay McBrayer
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Edited and directed by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special thanks to:

Hogan, Shana. Dancing with Death: The True Story of a Glamorous Showgirl, Her Wealthy Husband, and a Horrifying Murder

This is Monsters” Podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sex Workers' Tip Line

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 08:01:00 +0000

This is the story of the one of the first female African-American lawyers, Eunice Hunton Carter, who took down America's most powerful mobster.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Nora Batelle
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Edited and directed by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special thanks to:
Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Catfish Killer (Pt 2)

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 08:01:00 +0000

PART 2/2 An online feud escalates offline, resulting in a double murder. This is the story of the “The Facebook Murders” of Mountain City, Tennessee.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Nora Batelle
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Edited by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special Thanks to:
Dennis Brooks, Too Pretty To Live: The Catfishing Murders of East Tennessee

Special Thanks to:
Dennis Brooks, Too Pretty To Live: The Catfishing Murders of East Tennessee

20/20 Episode

https://abcnews.go.com/US/social-media-feud-led-murder-young-tennessee-couple/story?id=34346840

https://www.themidwestcrimefiles.com/post/deadly-facebook-friend-the-murder-of-billy-payne-billie-jean-hayworth

https://www.tncourts.gov/sites/default/files/janelle_leigh_potter_cca_majority_opinion.pdf

https://lawandcrime.com/crime/matriarch-of-tennessee-family-convicted-of-infamous-facebook-murders-pleads-guilty-after-being-granted-new-trial/

https://www.thetomahawk.com/news/local/plea-deal-brings-facebook-murders-trial-to-a-close/article_b2364104-e490-5703-a91c-97e3870f4da2.html#:~:text=A%20fourth%20person%20charged%2C%20Jamie,received%20a%2025%2Dyear%20sentence.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Catfish Killer (Pt 1)

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 08:01:00 +0000

An online feud escalates offline, resulting in a double murder. This is the story of the “The Facebook Murders” of Mountain City, Tennessee.

The Greatest True Crime Stories is a production of Diversion Audio.

• Follow Diversion Audio on Instagram
• Explore more: diversionaudio.com

This series is hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer. Check out more of her work at www.marykaymcbrayer.com.

This episode was written by Nora Batelle
Editorial Direction by Nora Batelle
Developed by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob Bronstein
Produced by Antonio Enriquez
Directed and Edited by Mark Francis
Theme Music by Tyler Cash
Executive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob Bronstein

Special Thanks to:
Dennis Brooks, Too Pretty To Live: The Catfishing Murders of East Tennessee

20/20 Episode

https://abcnews.go.com/US/social-media-feud-led-murder-young-tennessee-couple/story?id=34346840

https://www.themidwestcrimefiles.com/post/deadly-facebook-friend-the-murder-of-billy-payne-billie-jean-hayworth

https://www.tncourts.gov/sites/default/files/janelle_leigh_potter_cca_majority_opinion.pdf

https://lawandcrime.com/crime/matriarch-of-tennessee-family-convicted-of-infamous-facebook-murders-pleads-guilty-after-being-granted-new-trial/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introducing: The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 09:33:00 +0000

The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told is an anthology podcast series of the most layered and engrossing true crime stories about female killers, cops, scientists, lawyers, scammers, activists, and more. Hosted by true crime writer, Mary Kay McBrayer, this podcast tells the stories in which women aren’t narrowly defined as victims, but instead are the protagonists.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.