The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told

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.  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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.

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. • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 HouseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HeermanDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 KeefeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 LewisDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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-hospitalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • 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 HeermanDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 ConoverSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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.

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  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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.

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  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/A:1020228613796 https://www.heri.ucla.edu/PDFs/pubs/briefs/SAX_031909_brief.pdf William Allred https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-los-angeles-times/8905092/ https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-10-20-mn-14752-story.html https://www.gloriaallred.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1200518/2021/01/Gloria-Allred-Article-Los-Angeles-Magazine.pdf https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1992-02-26-me-2875-story.html 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 https://www.gloriaallred.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1200518/2021/01/Gloria-Allred-Article-Los-Angeles-Magazine.pdf https://www.kveller.com/16-things-you-need-to-know-about-badass-jewish-lawyer-gloria-allred/ https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/features/a539/gloria-allred-0610/ https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/10/02/gloria-allreds-crusade https://www.law.com/thelegalintelligencer/almID/1202473867559/ Harvey Wienstein https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/08/books/harvey-weinstein-book-kantor-twohey.html?smid=pc-thedaily https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/18/podcasts/the-daily/harvey-weinstein-lisa-bloom.html https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/19/podcasts/the-daily/harvey-weinstein-gloria-allred.html See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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.

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? • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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.

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. • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 VICESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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 subjectSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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.

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. • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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.

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.  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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' hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.  • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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' hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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' hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. • 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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' hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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' hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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' hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. 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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive 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' hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the story of Andrea Yates and the debilitating effects of postpartum depression in the digital age.  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 McBrayerDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob Bronstein Associate Producer is Leo CulpProduced by Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman and Emma DeMuthSpecial 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' hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

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.

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 BatelleEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob BronsteinProduced by Antonio EnriquezDirected by Jacob BronsteinTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial Thanks: Penny Farmer, Dead in the Water, My Forty-Year Search for My Brother’s KillerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 McBrayerEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob BronsteinProduced and directed by Mark Francis and Antonio EnriquezTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial 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.

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 McBrayerEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob BronsteinProduced, Directed and Edited by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial Thanks:Devil's Rooming House: The True Story of America's Deadliest Female Serial Killer by M William PhelpsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. 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 McBrayerEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob BronsteinProduced, Directed and Edited by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial Thanks:Devil's Rooming House: The True Story of America's Deadliest Female Serial Killer by M William PhelpsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 BatelleEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob BronsteinProduced directed and Edited by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial 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-kitSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 McBrayerEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob BronsteinProduced, edited, and directed by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial 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.

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 McBrayerEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob BronsteinProduced, edited, and directed by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial thanks to: Mary Kay McBrayer, America’s First Female Serial Killer: Jane Toppan and the Making of a Monster Harold Schechter, Fatal See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 McBrayerEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob BronsteinProduced, edited, and directed by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial thanks to: Mary Kay McBrayer, America’s First Female Serial Killer: Jane Toppan and the Making of a Monster Harold Schechter, Fatal Dariaan Berryman obituary, Lexington, KY, 9 March 2012. “Gunman Gets 20 Years in Georgia School Seizure” by Alan Blinder, New York Times, 16 September 2014 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 McBrayerEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob BronsteinProduced by Antonio EnriquezEdited and directed by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial thanks to: Hogan, Shana. Dancing with Death: The True Story of a Glamorous Showgirl, Her Wealthy Husband, and a Horrifying Murder This is Monsters” PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 BatelleEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob BronsteinProduced by Antonio EnriquezEdited and directed by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial thanks to:Carter, Stephen L.. Invisible. Henry Holt and Co.. Kindle Edition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 BatelleEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth, and Jacob BronsteinProduced by Antonio EnriquezEdited by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial 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.

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 BatelleEditorial Direction by Nora BatelleDeveloped by Scott Waxman, Emma DeMuth and Jacob BronsteinProduced by Antonio EnriquezDirected and Edited by Mark FrancisTheme Music by Tyler CashExecutive Produced by Scott Waxman, Mark Francis, and Jacob BronsteinSpecial 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 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.