The Best New News Podcast Right Now – May 2025
Dive into the world of true crime with this blog, exploring captivating Dateline episodes, gripping legal cases, and the complexities of justice. From the chilling murder of Anita Knutson to the ongoing investigation of the Idaho murders, we delve into the stories behind the headlines, examining the evidence, the suspects, and the impact on the victims' families. We also explore the broader societal issues surrounding these cases, including the challenges of finding justice, the role of social media, and the impact of violence on communities. Join us as we uncover the truth behind these compelling stories and shed light on the human cost of crime. Listen now to learn more!
The 10 Best News episodes
Murder in Minot
This Dateline episode explores the unsolved murder of Anita Knutson in Minot, North Dakota, following the investigation, the trial of her roommate Nicole Rice, and the lasting impact of the tragedy on the community.
This episode of Dateline delves into the chilling murder of Anita Knutson, a young college student in Minot, North Dakota. The episode begins with the discovery of Anita's body in her apartment and the initial shock and grief experienced by her family and friends. The investigation quickly focuses on Anita's roommate, Nicole Thomas, and a man named Michael Van, but leads to a dead end. The case takes a turn when a new suspect, Devon Hall, emerges, but he is cleared of any involvement. The investigation then focuses on a mysterious "running man" seen near Anita's apartment around the time of the murder, but police are unable to identify him. As the investigation stalls, the case goes cold, with key witnesses passing away and the trail growing cold. However, the arrival of the true crime TV show "Cold Justice" brings renewed attention to the case, leading to a bombshell tip from a man named William May, who claims that Nicole Thomas confessed to killing Anita. Nicole Rice, as she is now known, is charged with Anita's murder, and the episode follows her trial. The prosecution presents evidence suggesting that Nicole had both the motive and opportunity to kill Anita, while the defense argues that the investigation was flawed and that another suspect, Devon Hall, was overlooked. The episode concludes with the jury's verdict, finding Nicole Rice not guilty of Anita's murder. The verdict is met with mixed reactions, with Nicole's family expressing joy while Anita's family is devastated. The episode then shifts to an unsolved murder in Bute, where faded pink ribbons serve as a reminder of the tragedy and a tribute to the victim. The episode explores the details of the case and the lasting impact it has had on the community.
New evidence in Karen Read's retrial. Cold case arrest in Ohio. And a big ruling in Sean Combs case.
This episode of Dateline True Crime Weekly explores the arrest of Paul Hicks for the murder of his wife, updates on the Sean Combs and Brian Kohberger trials, and discusses courtroom security with Sheriff James Brown.
The podcast begins with an advertisement for Southern New Hampshire University, highlighting their online degree programs, including forensic psychology and criminology. The episode then delves into the case of Paul Hicks, who was initially investigated for an arson scheme involving a fake identity and a fireproof box for surveillance data. The investigation later led to his arrest for the murder of his estranged wife, Regina Hicks, almost 24 years after her body was found in a pond. The episode also provides updates on the upcoming trials of Sean Combs and Brian Kohberger, highlighting key pre-trial rulings and developments. It then features an interview with Sheriff James Brown, who discusses the importance of courtroom security and the challenges of keeping everyone safe. The episode focuses on the retrial of Karen Reed, accused of killing her police officer boyfriend, John O'Keefe. The prosecution presents new evidence, including data from John's phone, and witnesses testify about the events leading up to his death. The episode concludes with a reminder of the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, highlighting the alarming statistics of violence against Native women and featuring a link to a report on the case of Naveia Kingbird.
The Menendez brothers' chance at freedom. Questions for top investigator at Karen Read retrial. Plus, what's RICO?
This podcast covers recent developments in high-profile legal cases, including the resentencing of the Menendez brothers, the Karen Reed retrial, and the ongoing trials of Lori Vallow-Daybell and Sean Combs.
This podcast episode delves into several high-profile legal cases. The Menendez brothers, convicted of murdering their parents in 1996, were resentenced to 50 years to life, offering them a chance at parole. This resentencing was influenced by a new California law and evolving societal views on sexual abuse. The Karen Reed retrial features testimony from Sergeant Yuri Buchanick, a key witness. The prosecution aims to downplay the role of Michael Proctor, a former officer who sent inappropriate messages about Reed, while the defense emphasizes Proctor's central role in the investigation. The episode also updates on the Donna Adelson murder trial, which has been delayed due to a new investigation. Lori Vallow-Daybell's attempted murder trial is set to begin soon, and she has filed a motion to dismiss the charges. Harvey Weinstein's retrial continues with testimony from a new accuser, Kaya Sokola. Finally, the podcast explains the racketeering charges against Sean Combs in a federal sex trafficking trial. Legal analyst Danny Savalos clarifies the RICO Act and its application in this case, drawing parallels to similar charges against R. Kelly.
Talking Dateline: The Terrible Night on King Road
This Dateline episode investigates the murders of four University of Idaho students, focusing on the suspect, Brian Coburger, his disturbing Google searches, and the evidence presented in the case.
This Dateline episode delves into the ongoing investigation of the murders of four University of Idaho students. The episode features a discussion between Blaine Alexander and Keith Morrison, who explore the unique nature of the case, as it covers an ongoing investigation with a trial still pending. They discuss the suspect, Brian Coburger, his personality, his interest in criminology, and the disturbing Google searches found on his phone, including queries about psychopathy and Ted Bundy. The episode also examines the evidence presented, including the white car seen near the crime scene and the DNA found on the knife sheath. The conversation explores the actions of the two surviving roommates, who were present during the murders but did not call 911 for several hours. The podcast also shares insights about the victims, describing them as bright, responsible young people with promising futures. The episode concludes with a discussion of audience questions and the role of Catherine Ramzlan, a professor who was Brian Coburger's mentor and a leading expert on serial killers.
Is America becoming an autocracy?
This podcast explores the potential for authoritarianism in the US, drawing parallels to Turkey and Hungary, and examining the subtle ways autocratic leaders undermine democracy.
The podcast "Sunday Story" delves into the state of American democracy, raising concerns about a potential shift towards authoritarianism. Experts discuss the concept of "competitive authoritarianism," where a democratically elected leader gradually concentrates power by undermining democratic institutions. A scholar from an autocratic country, initially willing to be interviewed, withdraws due to fear after witnessing the detention of a Turkish student in the US, highlighting the chilling effect of repression. The podcast examines parallels between President Trump's actions and those of autocratic leaders in Turkey and Hungary, particularly focusing on how Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orbán consolidated power through media control, university manipulation, and judicial control. The podcast also discusses the current challenges faced by Erdogan in Turkey and Orbán in Hungary, with both facing increased opposition and protests. While some scholars express deep concern about the potential for authoritarianism in the US, others remain skeptical. The podcast explores the potential long-term consequences of Trump's governance, even if the US doesn't fully transition to authoritarianism, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and active participation in defending democratic values.
The Trial of Sean Combs
This episode of The Sunday Story investigates the allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy against Sean Combs, exploring his rise to power in the music industry, the events leading to his downfall, and the potential impact on his legacy and the hip-hop community.
This episode of The Sunday Story delves into the career and legal troubles of Sean Combs, a prominent figure in hip-hop and pop culture. The episode examines the allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy against Combs, detailing the specific charges, including transporting to engage in prostitution and using his businesses to facilitate and conceal criminal activity. The episode explores the events that led to Combs' downfall, including a civil lawsuit filed by his ex-partner, Cassie Ventura, alleging rape, trafficking, and assault, and the release of surveillance footage showing Combs assaulting Ventura. The episode also delves into the allegations surrounding "freakoffs," elaborate sex performances allegedly organized by Combs, where he coerced women into participating through violence and threats. The episode discusses Combs' arrest and denial of bail, citing concerns about his potential flight risk and the possibility of him intimidating witnesses. The episode explores the impact of the allegations on Combs' legacy and the reactions on social media, highlighting the potential for defensive reactions due to stereotypes about black men and emphasizing the importance of centering the voices of the alleged victims, many of whom are black women. The episode draws parallels between the allegations against Combs and the case of R. Kelly, who was found guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking, exploring whether the Combs case could spark a larger movement for accountability within hip-hop. The episode discusses the need for accountability within hip-hop, highlighting the importance of men speaking out against abuse and acknowledging their role in perpetuating a culture of silence. The episode also emphasizes the courage of women who have come forward with their stories. The episode concludes by looking ahead to the trial, emphasizing the importance of hearing from the alleged victims and the potential for a reckoning regarding power dynamics and abuse. The episode suggests that true accountability will require a broader societal shift beyond focusing on individual cases.
The Terrible Night On King Road
Dateline investigates the Idaho murders case, exploring Brian Kohberger's background, his potential motives, and the evidence that led to his arrest and upcoming trial.
This episode of Dateline delves into the investigation of the Idaho murders, focusing on the suspect, Brian Kohberger. The episode begins with an introduction to the four victims, Maddie Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Zana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin, highlighting their personalities and the impact their deaths had on their families and friends. The report then examines Kohberger's background, revealing his struggles with addiction and weight loss, his pursuit of a criminology degree, and his unusual behavior, including his fascination with the dark and his obsession with serial killers. Dateline investigates a pool party Kohberger attended in Moscow, Idaho, months before the murders, where witnesses describe his awkward behavior and his fixation on two women in bikinis. The episode explores Kohberger's affinity for darkness, his nocturnal activities, and his preference for solitude. Experts speculate on the possible psychological implications of his behavior, suggesting it could be linked to a desire for anonymity or a sense of detachment from society. Dateline reveals cell phone tower data that tracks Kohberger's movements in the months leading up to the murders, showing repeated trips to the area of the King Road house, all after dark, suggesting a possible pattern of surveillance or planning. The report uncovers evidence of Kohberger's interest in Ted Bundy, including Google searches for his name and the download of a paper about Bundy's justifications for his crimes. Experts speculate on the significance of this interest, suggesting it could be a sign of fascination with serial killers or a potential influence on his own behavior. The episode examines the King Road house, a frequent site of parties and noise complaints, and explores the possibility that someone could have entered the house unnoticed during a party, potentially providing an opportunity for the killer to gain access. Dateline details Kohberger's behavior at Washington State University, including accusations of sexism and his tendency to belittle others. It explores his strained relationships with students and colleagues, suggesting a possible pattern of aggression and control. The report reveals dozens of photos of women found on Kohberger's phone, many of them from Instagram, including friends and followers of the King Road victims, suggesting a possible obsession with the women or a desire to study them. The episode details an incident where Kohberger's classmate, Na Young-Co, discovered her apartment had been broken into, finding her belongings rearranged and two prized possessions missing. She called Kohberger for help and spent the night at his apartment, later suspecting him of the break-in. The report highlights Kohberger's difficulties at WSU, including an altercation with a professor and a meeting with the dean to discuss his behavior. Experts suggest these incidents could be signs of escalating distress or a potential trigger for violence. Dateline presents cell phone data that shows Kohberger's phone connecting to a cell tower near the King Road house on multiple occasions in the weeks leading up to the murders. Experts speculate that this could be evidence of surveillance or a pattern of stalking. The episode explores the possibility that Kohberger used social media to gather information about the victims, including their routines, habits, and security measures. Experts suggest that he may have used TikTok videos and other social media posts to plan his attack. The report details a meeting Kohberger had with WSU faculty to discuss an "improvement plan" for his behavior. It also reveals that he made a final trip to the area of the King Road house just days before the murders. Dateline presents a detailed timeline of events on the night of the murders, including the victims' activities, Kohberger's movements, and the discovery of the bodies. Experts provide psychological insights into the killer's mindset, suggesting that the murders were likely a culmination of a lifetime of rejection and a desire to enact a fantasy of power and control. Dateline reconstructs the events inside the King Road house, based on witness accounts, court records, and police evidence. The report suggests that the killer targeted Maddie Mogen, but was surprised to find her with Kaylee Goncalves. The attack escalated into a chaotic struggle, resulting in the deaths of all four victims. The episode describes the killer's panicked escape from the King Road house, including his high-speed driving and near-collision with another vehicle. Dateline recounts the discovery of the victims' bodies, the roommates' initial confusion and delayed calls to 911, and the subsequent investigation that led to Kohberger's arrest. The report examines a selfie Kohberger took in his bathroom mirror hours after the murders. Experts speculate that the selfie could be a sign of celebration or a way for him to assert his power and control. Dateline plays the harrowing 911 call made by Bethany Funk, one of the surviving roommates, describing the scene and her initial confusion about the events. The episode explores the devastating impact of the murders on the victims' families, highlighting their grief, fear, and the lasting effects of the tragedy. Dateline details the investigation, including the discovery of the knife sheath, the DNA evidence, and the use of genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a suspect. The report examines Kohberger's online activity in the weeks following the murders, including his searches for information about the case, his viewing of videos about serial killers, and his attempts to delete his Amazon account activity. The episode reveals that Kohberger's father became suspicious of his son's involvement in the murders after learning about the case and his son's behavior. Dateline recounts Kohberger's arrest, the police raid on his home, and the global reaction to the news. The report details Kohberger's extradition from Pennsylvania to Idaho, his arraignment, and the charges against him, including four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. The episode discusses the state's decision to seek the death penalty for Kohberger, the move of the trial from Moscow to Boise, and the selection of a death-qualified jury. The report explores the defense strategy, which is likely to focus on creating doubt about Kohberger's guilt and highlighting potential alternative suspects. The episode examines the knife sheath, a key piece of evidence that links Kohberger to the crime scene. The defense is expected to challenge the admissibility of the DNA evidence and argue that the sheath was planted or transferred. The report discusses the defense's investigation into potential alternative suspects, highlighting the state's failure to test unidentified blood samples found at the crime scene. The episode examines the testimony of Dylan Mortensen, the roommate who saw the killer leaving the house. The defense is likely to challenge her credibility, pointing to her intoxication and her initial inability to identify Kohberger. The report emphasizes the high stakes of the trial, highlighting the global attention it has received and the potential for a death penalty sentence. The episode discusses the aggravating and mitigating factors that will be considered during the sentencing phase, including the heinousness of the crimes and Kohberger's autism spectrum disorder. The report explains Idaho's new law that makes the firing squad the primary mode of execution, although the likelihood of Kohberger facing this method is remote due to the lengthy appeals process. The episode explores the possibility of a plea deal, but suggests that it is unlikely given Kohberger's insistence on his innocence. The report concludes by highlighting the lasting impact of the murders on the victims' families, particularly Maddie's best friend, Ashland, who has struggled to cope with the tragedy and has moved away from the area.
The Idaho student murders: new details. Karen Read's voicemails. And Sean Combs's trial begins.
This episode of Date Line True Crime Weekly covers the latest developments in the Karen Reed retrial, the upcoming sex trafficking trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs, and a groundbreaking investigation into the murders of four University of Idaho students.
This episode of Date Line True Crime Weekly covers a range of high-profile criminal cases. The episode begins with an update on the Karen Reed retrial, highlighting the key evidence and arguments presented by both sides. It then delves into the upcoming sex trafficking trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs, outlining the charges against him, the alleged victims, and the defense's arguments. The episode concludes with a discussion of a groundbreaking investigation into the murders of four University of Idaho students, exploring the potential motives and suspects involved.
Talking Dateline: Murder in Minot
This podcast episode delves into the Dateline episode "Murder in My Not," exploring the acquittal of Nicole Rice in the murder of her roommate, Anita Knutzen, and the impact on Anita's family's long fight for justice.
This podcast episode dives into the Dateline episode "Murder in My Not," focusing on the acquittal of Nicole Rice in the murder of her roommate, Anita Knutzen. The episode explores the challenges faced by the prosecution, including the lack of direct evidence and the reliance on circumstantial evidence. The hosts discuss the emotional toll on Anita's family, particularly her parents, who endured a long and difficult trial seeking justice for their daughter. The episode highlights the unseen involvement of families in murder cases, emphasizing the emotional and time-consuming nature of their participation in court proceedings. The hosts also discuss the social media reactions to the verdict, including concerns about the jury's reliance on circumstantial evidence and the investigation's focus on the wrong suspects. The episode concludes with a discussion about the challenges families face in finding purpose and moving forward after a long and emotionally draining trial, especially when there is no conviction.
Syria's Missing Children
This episode of "Up First" investigates the disappearance of children in Syria during the civil war, focusing on the practice of Syrian intelligence agents taking children from their mothers while they were detained and placing them in orphanages.
This episode of "The Sunday Story" from "Up First" delves into the harrowing reality of missing children in Syria during the civil war. Reporter Dia Hadid investigates the practice of Syrian intelligence agents taking children from their mothers while they were detained and placing them in orphanages, often without their parents' knowledge or consent. The episode highlights the brutal tactics employed by the Air Force Intelligence Directorate, a feared arm of the Syrian regime, and the inhumane conditions faced by mothers and children in detention. Hadid's investigation reveals the complex and often hidden network of orphanages that secretly took in these "security placement children," leaving many families desperate for answers about their missing loved ones. The episode explores the long-term consequences for children who were separated from their families and the ongoing struggle to find them.
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