Episodes
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Discover legal intricacies surrounding Amanda Lewis’s conviction, exploring how biases, courtroom dynamics, and the role of a child witness shaped the outcome. With expert insight from N. Leigh Hunt, we uncover the broader implications of this case on justice and examine whether critical evidence may have been overlooked or misinterpreted. Explore the psychological factors at play, the trial's contentious elements, and compelling insights that may shed light on Amanda Lewis's innocence or guilt.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Amanda Lewis's Case
01:23 Child Witness Testimony and Credibility
05:30 The Role of Psychological Evaluation
10:16 Speculations on Child's Testimony
15:34 The Importance of Consistent Narratives
20:47 Legal Mechanisms and Witness Testimony
25:32 Potential Grounds for Retrial
30:16 Future Steps and Hope for Justice
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On August 8, 2007, Adrianna Hutto tragically drowned in a pool. Six months later, her mother, Amanda Lewis, was convicted of first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse. The prosecution's key witness was A.J., Amanda's six-year-old son, who provided over a dozen conflicting accounts of what happened that day. Despite the inconsistencies in his testimony and questions surrounding his reliability as an eyewitness, his statements ultimately led to his mother's conviction and a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Join N. Leigh Hunt, along with forensic psychologists, as we analyze the complexities of this case and explore whether Amanda Lewis’s conviction was a miscarriage of justice.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Case of Amanda Lewis
02:46 The Incident: A Tragic Drowning
06:01 The Investigation Begins
08:56 The Interrogation of a Six-Year-Old
12:03 Trial and Testimony: A Child's Perspective
14:56 The Role of the Coroner and Medical Testimony
17:49 Legal Missteps and Procedural Errors
21:11 Family Dynamics and Testimonies
23:59 The Aftermath: Life Sentences and Appeals
26:50 Reflections on Justice and Fair Trials
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Missing episodes?
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The second part of Abigail Bieber’s story reveals the systemic failures within the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department that allowed Detective Daniel Leyden’s abusive behaviors to go unchecked. Abigail’s father, Bruce Bieber, shares his perspective on the silence and complicity within law enforcement, raising pressing questions about accountability in cases of officer-involved domestic violence. What happens when the patriarchy within law enforcement shields abusers and silences victims? This episode examines the dangerous dynamics of power and privilege in law enforcement and calls for urgent systemic reform.
Chapters
00:00 Systematic Failures in Law Enforcement
02:48 Accountability and Reform in Domestic Violence Cases
06:06 Mental Health and Wellness in Law Enforcement
08:58 Cultural Stigma and Officer Wellness Programs
11:53 Political Climate and Domestic Violence Funding
15:13 Strangulation Awareness and Risk Factors
18:04 The Impact of Officer-Involved Domestic Violence
20:56 Personal Stories and Advocacy for Change
25:10 Confronting Law Enforcement Accountability
28:54 The Need for Transparency in Law Enforcement
29:48 Advocating for Change in Law Enforcement
31:44 The Impact of Domestic Violence in Law Enforcement
35:37 Cultural Resistance to Change in Law Enforcement
37:57 The Role of Psychological Evaluation in Law Enforcement
41:19 The Importance of Forensic Psychology
44:21 Identifying Deceit in Law Enforcement Candidates
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Inspired by Telling Amy's Story, this episode begins with a closer look at Abigail Bieber's life, a vibrant young officer whose future was filled with promise. Through heartfelt conversations with her father, Bruce Bieber, we reconstruct the timeline leading up to her tragic murder-suicide at the hands of her partner, Detective Daniel Leyden. We explore missed opportunities for intervention, overlooked warning signs, and the escalating danger that ultimately led to Abigail's death. Abigail’s story highlights the critical need to recognize and respond to officer-involved domestic violence.
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Abigail Bieber's Tragic Story
(02:59) Understanding Officer Involved Domestic Violence
(05:51) Abigail's Relationship with Detective Daniel Leyden
(09:14) The Aftermath of Abigail's Murder
(12:07) The Investigation and Discovery of Domestic Violence History
(15:02) The Role of Law Enforcement in Domestic Violence Cases
(17:58) Psychological Evaluations and Law Enforcement Standards
(20:48) Cultural Issues in Law Enforcement Regarding Domestic Violence
(28:14) Exploring the 'Beat Wife' Culture in Law Enforcement
(30:28) The Compromised Safety of Victims
(31:55) Manipulation and Abuse of Power by Law Enforcement
(34:16) The Tragic Case of China and Its Implications
(39:32) Investigative Failures and Accountability Issues
(42:26) Existing Solutions and the Need for Implementation
(49:14) Learning from Tragedy: The Story of Amy Holman McGee
(53:14) Preventing Future Violence through Policy and Training
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Dr. Marianne Trent, clinical psychologist and host of the award-winning Aspiring Psychologist Podcast in the UK, joins Killer Psychologist to explore the intersections of clinical and forensic psychology across borders. Together, they discuss career pathways, compare the mental health systems in the UK and US, and discuss the rise of private practice as a transformative force in care delivery. A must-listen for students, early-career psychologists, seasoned professionals, or anyone curious about global mental health trends, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving field of psychology.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Killer Psychologist and Dr. Marianne Trent
02:51 Pathways to Becoming a Psychologist in the UK
12:43 The Journey to Forensic Psychology
18:49 Insurance and Income Streams in Psychology
26:35 Compassion in Forensic Psychology
31:22 Navigating the Dark Side of Forensic Psychology
39:06 The Role of Forensic Psychologists in Legal Outcomes
41:57 Understanding Mental Health Trends in the UK
50:04 Self-Care Strategies for Mental Health Professionals
58:43 The Importance of Community and Support in Psychology
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Margot Robbie brought Nadine Macaluso to life in The Wolf of Wall Street, but the real Nadine—now Dr. Nae—is here to tell her own story. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, doctor, and author of Run Like Hell, she guides us through the warning signs of the “Dark Triad” traits: narcissism, machiavellianism, and psychopathy, along with the fourth “Dark Tetrad” trait, sadism. In this episode, she helps us recognize the red flags of love bombing and manipulation. Featuring infamous cases like Jeffrey Epstein, Harvey Weinstein, and Bernie Madoff, we uncover the tools to identify and escape from toxic, pathological relationships. Protect yourself by understanding the psychology behind these manipulative personalities—and knowing when it’s time to “run like hell.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Domestic Violence Awareness
02:53 The Importance of Education on Domestic Violence
06:14 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships
09:07 Understanding Love Bombing and Manipulation
11:56 The Impact of Trauma Bonds
14:51 Breaking the Cycle of Shame and Stigma
18:09 Identifying Pathological Partners
20:59 Cognitive Dissonance in Abusive Relationships
23:54 Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence
27:11 Empowerment Through Education and Support
30:02 Conclusion and Call to Action
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Andrew Dodge, host of the Unforbidden Truth podcast, joins us to discuss his chilling conversations with some of the most violent offenders and serial killers across the US. Andrew shares his experiences from inside the minds of these criminals, revealing his purpose behind the interviews and what he hopes to uncover through these intense dialogues. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of the darkest sides of humanity and the lessons learned from those who have committed unthinkable crimes. Find out how one of his interviews led police to solving a cold case, shedding new light on the impact of these conversations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Killer Psychologist
00:20 Meet Andrew Dodge: The Mind Behind Unforbidden Truth
02:14 Andrew's Journey into True Crime
05:32 The Fascination with Serial Killers
08:50 The Mission Behind Andrew's Podcast
11:13 Commonalities Between Us and Offenders
14:08 Interviews and Their Impact on Cold Cases
18:00 Building Trust with Inmates
19:06 Female Inmates and Communication Dynamics
24:56 Exploring Andrew's New Podcast on Juvenile Offenders
28:18 The Importance of Mental Health Services
30:39 Learning from Offenders: A Deeper Understanding
35:31 Intervention and Prevention in Mental Health
39:27 The Reality of Reentry into Society
41:48 The Broken Prison System
43:10 Conclusion and Future Collaborations
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New York Times bestselling author Aphrodite Jones reveals the haunting true story behind her book, The Embrace: A True Vampire Story. At its center is 16-year-old self-avowed Antichrist Roderick Ferrell, who led a group of teenagers enthralled by vampire culture into the brutal human sacrifice of an innocent couple, Richard and Ruth Wendorf, savagely beaten with a tire iron. Aphrodite Jones uncovers not only the horrific crime but the psychological draw of bloodletting and the fascination with immortality that enticed these teens. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, she examines themes of obsession, rebellion, and vulnerability, driven by her passion for exposing the truths behind society’s darkest crimes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to True Crime and Its Impact
01:53 Aphrodite Jones: The Journey into True Crime
06:04 Understanding the Dark Side of True Crime
09:48 The Role of Media in True Crime Narratives
14:06 The Psychology Behind Violence and Crime
17:53 The Influence of Fantasy and Reality on Youth
22:12 Parental Responsibility in Preventing Violence
26:04 Intervention Strategies for At-Risk Youth
33:41 The Disturbing Reality of Youth Violence
36:01 The Influence of Social Media on Teen Behavior
37:00 The Case of Roderick Farrell: A Psychological Analysis
42:12 Premeditation and the Nature of Evil
47:01 Justice System Challenges and the Death Penalty Debate
51:48 The Menendez Brothers: A Case of Abuse and Murder
56:05 The Role of True Crime in Solving Cold Cases
01:01:50 Funding and Support for Unsolved Cases
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Laurie Pieters-James, criminologist and specialist offender profiler, joins us to confront the staggering crime epidemic in South Africa. As the founder of Cybareti Consulting, Laurie sheds light on the overwhelming rates of rape and murder in the country, where it's no longer a question of if but when a woman will face sexual violence. How did South Africa reach this point, and how can individuals survive in this landscape of criminal chaos? Laurie’s expertise provides a chilling look at the broken justice system. Join us for a jaw-dropping discussion about crime and survival in South Africa.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Crime and Psychology in South Africa
01:28 Laurie's Journey into Profiling and Cybersecurity
03:50 The Case of Cezanne Visser and Its Implications
12:30 Justice System Challenges in South Africa
20:41 Living in Fear: The Reality of South African Society
27:17 Contrasting South Africa and Botswana
28:47 Human-Elephant Conflict in Botswana
30:40 The Death Penalty and Justice System in Botswana
32:38 Societal Discipline and Crime in Botswana
34:31 Education and Opportunities in Botswana
36:55 Cultural Perspectives on Gender and Crime
39:45 Shifting Attitudes Towards America
42:11 Corruption and Economic Challenges in South Africa
44:54 Personal Reflections on Life in South Africa
47:19 Political Landscape and Global Perspectives
54:03 Travel Aspirations and Cultural Exchange
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A true crime group accuses Killer Psychologist of staging a 911 call in the Mica Miller case. Private investigator Eric Zelaya and attorney Craig Wetterer weigh in, revealing how accusations not only blur the line between storytelling, but open the door to criminal and civil counterclaims, complicating the pursuit of justice. As the allegations stray further from the facts, we confront the ethical responsibility of true crime media and the real harm caused to the family when sensationalism takes center stage over truth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Accusation
02:51 Understanding the Mica Miller Case
06:10 The Role of Social Media in False Allegations
09:04 Legal Implications of Defamation
11:59 Exploring Freedom of Speech and Its Limits
14:51 The Complexity of Jurisdiction in Defamation Cases
18:13 Influencers and Legal Responsibility
25:16 The Impact of Social Media on Reputation
28:08 Understanding Delusional Behavior in Online Communities
31:01 Legal Implications of False Accusations
37:00 The Consequences of Malicious Litigation
48:54 The Role of Professionals in True Crime Investigations
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Emmy-Award-winning producer Alexandra Orton, the creative mind behind Out There: Crimes of the Paranormal on Hulu, joins us for an in-depth conversation. Best known for her work on Secrets of Playboy, ReMastered, and Framing John DeLorean, Alexandra dives into her latest docuseries, which unravels eight true crime cases where the supernatural meets reality. From UFO crashes and mysterious beasts to occult murders and ghostly threats, Alexandra takes us behind the scenes, revealing new truths about mythology, the paranormal, and the monsters among us.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Killer Psychologist and Out There Crimes of the Paranormal
01:54 Exploring Belief Systems and Cultural Influences
06:14 The Intersection of True Crime and Supernatural Elements
10:02 Case Study: The Goat Man and Real-Life Consequences
13:47 Justice and Miscarriages in Indigenous Cases
18:10 Community and Belief: The Role of Loneliness and Connection
24:01 Conclusion and Future Aspirations
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Dr. Nicholas Baham, professor and noir crime fiction author, exposes the stark realities of sex trafficking and the intricate forensic elements woven into his novel, The People’s Detective. He discusses his inspiration, its connection to current events like Sean "Diddy" Combs' arrest, and the societal influences behind his work. Through extensive research and storytelling, Dr. Baham sheds light on the crisis of missing women, the complexities of forensic investigation, and the broader portrayal of trafficking and crime in the Bay Area.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Killer Psychologist and Dr. Nicholas Baham
02:55 Exploring the Themes of Sex Trafficking
06:50 Understanding the Complexities of Sex Trafficking
11:09 The Role of Drugs and Manipulation in Trafficking
15:32 The Legal Challenges for Victims
20:51 Advocacy and Resources for Victims
23:18 The Intersection of Sex Work and Trafficking
27:49 The Grooming Process and Its Implications
34:01 The Sean Combs Case: Power Dynamics and Victimization
48:01 The Broader Implications of the Case
52:51 Conclusion and Future Directions
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Understanding the distinction between court-ordered evaluations, such as competency to stand trial, is crucial for navigating complex legal cases involving mental health. In this episode, Dr. Rod Hoevet discusses how these evaluations impact legal outcomes, with a focus on the high-profile case of Bianca Ellis, a woman from Cleveland, Ohio, who stabbed a 3-year-old to death. As the public grapples with her legal proceedings, forensic psychologists delve into the critical differences between assessing competency and examining the insanity defense, shedding light on the intricate balance between mental illness and criminal responsibility.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Forensic Psychology
02:51 Understanding Competency to Stand Trial
06:07 The Evaluation Process and Its Importance
08:55 Legal Implications of Competency
11:48 Unique Cases and Evaluations
14:59 The Role of Mental Health in Competency
17:50 Challenges in Evaluating Competency
21:06 Public Perception and Misunderstandings
23:56 The Insanity Defense vs. Competency
27:13 The Importance of Timely Evaluations
30:02 Consultation and Collaboration with Attorneys
32:56 The Role of Forensic Psychologists in High-Profile Cases
35:51 Mentorship and Education in Forensic Psychology
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What is hybristophilia? Why would someone fall for a killer, and just how far will they go in the name of love? We investigate the case of convicted murderer Wade Wilson, now on death row. Legal expert Eric Zelaya walks us through the conviction process, revealing what unfolds after a verdict is handed down. Uncover the intricate legal journey and the dark obsessions that fuel these dangerous relationships—where women find themselves captivated by notorious criminals. Get ready for a revealing look into the minds behind these deadly attractions.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wade Wilson's Case
03:07 Understanding Hybristophilia
06:03 The Psychology Behind Criminal Obsession
09:04 The Role of Substance Abuse in Violent Crimes
12:06 Legal Strategies and Mental Health Defenses
14:53 The Impact of Social Media on True Crime
17:53 The Dangers of Misinformation in True Crime
21:14 Conclusion and Future Discussions
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Can mental health conditions truly reshape legal outcomes? Dr. Dana Anderson and Dr. Craig Wetterer explore how mental health diversion (MHD) can offer a second chance for individuals facing criminal charges. They reveal how forensic psychology and law converge to create meaningful alternatives to incarceration, reducing or even eliminating charges through targeted treatment. This episode provides essential insights for attorneys looking to apply MHD strategies and clients who want to better understand the process. Whether you're in the courtroom or navigating the justice system, you’ll gain practical guidance on leveraging mental health diversion for a brighter future.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Diversion Evaluations
00:59 Defining Mental Health Diversion Evaluations
02:28 Exclusion of Antisocial Personality Disorder
06:14 The Process and Impact of Mental Health Diversion
13:17 The Problem of Misdiagnosis
19:03 The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
21:47 The Benefits of Psychological Evaluations
28:03 Challenges with Co-occurring Mental Illness and Antisocial Behavior
30:28 The Importance of Accurate Psychological Evaluations
32:27 The Side Effects of Antipsychotic Drugs
33:52 Uncovering the Truth: Therapy as an Intervention
36:36 Understanding Personality Disorders
40:22 The Gut Feeling: Recognizing Personality Disorders
45:09 Getting it Right the First Time: Hiring Qualified Professionals
50:23 Beware of Unlicensed Practitioners
54:42 The Challenges of Prosecuting Unlicensed Practitioners
56:37 The Benefits of Independent Evaluations
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"I Don't Like Mondays" by N. Leigh Hunt is a gripping true crime book that delves into the harrowing case of Brenda Ann Spencer, who, at just 16 years old, became America's first school shooter on January 29, 1979. From her home across the street, Spencer opened fire on an elementary school in San Diego, tragically killing two adults and injuring eight children and a police officer. Her chilling response when asked why she committed the crime—"I don't like Mondays"—which inspired the book's title
Join forensic psychologists as they explore the complex psychological and social factors that may have contributed to Spencer's actions and examine the broader implications of this tragedy. The discussion covers the profound and lasting impact on the victims, their families, and the community, as well as the controversial debate surrounding Spencer's potential release on parole. Drawing on meticulous research and interviews, Hunt offers a comprehensive account of the crime that remains deeply relevant in today's discussions on school violence, mental health, and the criminal justice system.
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In this episode, seasoned investigator Jerry Lyons, known for his work on the Casey Anthony case, joins forces with experts Eric Zelaya and Dr. Craig Wetterer to dive deep into the Son of Sam law—a legal doctrine that prevents criminals from profiting off the publicity of their crimes. The discussion unpacks the reasons behind the public's fascination with notorious criminal cases and examines how psychological traps like attribution bias, confirmation bias, and the need for control distort our perception of justice. The team also delves into the complexities of double jeopardy, the disturbing obsession with true crime, and the public's fixation on cases like that of Gypsy Rose Blanchard. Don't miss this thought-provoking analysis of the darker side of our collective obsession with the most infamous crimes.
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In the gripping conclusion to "Pretty but Deadly", Helene returns with a shocking revelation of how her mother, driven by a twisted compulsion, ultimately poisons her own husband—Helene's father. Helene uncovers this final, devastating act. How does a family unravel when the person they trust most becomes their greatest threat? Join us as Helene, with her compelling storytelling, pieces together the chilling truth of her family's tragic history. This episode will leave you questioning the depths of human behavior and the hidden dangers that can lurk within the family unit.
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Prepare to be captivated by the harrowing story of a seemingly perfect mother who harbors a deadly secret. Beneath her beauty lies a terrifying obsession with control, driving her to poison her children and husband in a tragic case of Munchausen by Proxy. Helene, one of the children who miraculously survived, is a masterful storyteller who brings this dark tale to life. With bravery, she reveals the twisted psychology that led her mother to commit these unimaginable acts. Listen in as we explore the red flags and warning signs that went unreported.
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Unravel the dark web of psychological manipulation that led to a shocking murder by proxy, where years of abuse and deception culminated in the notorious killing of Gypsy's mother Dee Dee Blanchard. This episode takes you deep into the minds of Nicholas Godejohn, serving life in prison, and Gypsy Rose, who is out on parole. We dissect the factors that drove them to plan such a heinous crime and ask whether justice was truly served. Will Gypsy Rose return to prison, or has she truly broken free from her past? Board Certified Homicide Investigator Eric Zelaya examines the unsettling secrets and dark truths behind this case, uncovering the twisted dynamics that have fascinated the public.
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