The Best New True Crime Podcast Right Now – July 2025
Dive into the dark side of true crime with this blog, exploring ten gripping podcast episodes. Uncover the chilling details of the Idaho murders, the unsolved mysteries of the Lewis Clark Valley, and the shocking stories behind the deaths of Mike Williams, Siminette Mapes-Croopy, and Brandy Daniels, among others. Each episode features compelling narratives, unexpected twists, and the tireless pursuit of justice. Delve deeper into these captivating cases and discover the truth behind the headlines. Read on to uncover more!
The 10 Best True Crime episodes
INFAMOUS: University of Idaho Murders
The Idaho four murders case, culminating in Brian Kohberger's guilty plea to avoid the death penalty, is examined, detailing the investigation, evidence, online speculation, and the lasting impact on victims' families and the community.
This podcast details the investigation into the Idaho four murders, focusing on the brutal stabbing deaths of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. The narrative begins with the discovery of the bodies and the initial 911 call, highlighting the surviving roommate's account and the initial chaotic scene. The investigation, initially hampered by a lack of forced entry and conflicting witness statements, intensified with the discovery of crucial evidence like a knife sheath containing Kohberger's DNA. The podcast explores the role of online speculation and misinformation, emphasizing its negative impact on those wrongly accused. Surveillance footage of a white Hyundai Elantra led investigators to Brian Kohberger, a criminology PhD student living nearby. His arrest was based on DNA evidence, cell phone data, and his disturbing online survey. The podcast discusses the evidence presented, including a balaclava and gloves found in his possession, and the unexpected plea deal that avoided the death penalty, sparking controversy and mixed reactions from the victims' families. Finally, the podcast explores potential motives, including the theory that Kohberger targeted Maddie Mogen, and discusses his possible misogynistic tendencies and potential emulation of Elliott Roger. The podcast concludes by reflecting on the victims and the lasting impact of this tragic case.
MISSING: John & Shelly Markley
The unsolved 1995 disappearance of John and Shelley Markley in Bristolville, Ohio, involves a missing truck, ransom calls, a convicted extortionist, conflicting evidence, and theories ranging from marital problems to a possible family cover-up.
This podcast investigates the mysterious disappearance of John and Shelley Markley from Bristolville, Ohio, in December 1995. Their daughter Ruth discovered their home unlocked, their truck missing, and their gun cabinet open, sparking a police investigation. Initial leads focused on the missing truck, which was later found with potential evidence, and a $1000 check cashed by the couple on the day of their disappearance. A series of ransom calls led to the arrest of Stephen Durst, a former employee with a history of conflict with John, who was convicted of extortion but not of abduction due to insufficient evidence. New audio evidence emerged, potentially implicating Durst further, but not definitively. The podcast explores multiple theories, including the possibility of Shelley's involvement due to marital problems and financial motivations, and a potential link to a past family murder and cover-up. The complex family history and relationships are examined, with a new suspect and theory introduced by Shelley's brother. Ultimately, the case remains unsolved, highlighting the lack of concrete evidence and the ongoing need for tips to help solve this cold case.
SERIAL KILLER: The Lewis-Clark Valley Murders
The podcast investigates the unsolved disappearances and murders in the Lewis Clark Valley, focusing on Lance Boss as a key suspect linked to multiple cold cases through circumstantial evidence and inconsistent alibis.
This podcast delves into the chilling unsolved mysteries of the Lewis Clark Valley, focusing on a series of disappearances and murders potentially linked to a single individual. The investigation centers around the disappearances of Ricky Barnett, Christina Nelson, Jacqueline Miller, and Stephen Parasol in 1982. The timeline and proximity of these events raise serious suspicion. The discovery of Christina Nelson and Brandy Miller's remains shifts the focus, initially implicating Stephen Parasol before suspicion turns to Lance Boss. Lance Boss, a witness connected to the Lewiston Civic Theater, emerges as a key person of interest due to his proximity to the victims and inconsistencies in his statements to the police. His potential involvement extends beyond the Lewis Clark Valley, with possible links to unsolved cases in Chicago and California. The podcast also explores the murder of Kristen David in 1981 and the disappearance of 12-year-old Christina White in 1979, both potentially connected to Lance Boss. The investigation relies heavily on circumstantial evidence, witness accounts, and ongoing forensic analysis. The podcast concludes by highlighting the ongoing nature of the investigation and urging listeners to come forward with any information that could help solve these decades-old mysteries.
Held Captive by a Russian Serial Killer
Irene Ganyushkina's escape from an underground bunker reveals a horrifying tale of human trafficking and gender-based violence in post-Soviet Russia, highlighting systemic failures and societal indifference.
This podcast details the harrowing experience of Irene Ganyushkina, who escaped from an underground bunker where she and other women were held captive and forced into labor by Alexander Komen. The narrative unfolds chronologically, starting with Irina's life in Viadzkya Poliani, a struggling Russian town, before her abduction and subsequent imprisonment. The podcast describes the brutal conditions in the bunker, Komen's cruel treatment, and the women's failed escape attempts. Komen's background, including a prior prison sentence and exposure to forced labor, is explored, shedding light on the potential roots of his crimes. The episode also examines the women's experiences of enslavement, abuse, and the lasting trauma they endured. Following Irene's escape and report to the police, Komen's arrest, trial, and eventual suicide are detailed. The podcast concludes by analyzing the societal response to the case, highlighting the lack of support for the victims and the broader issues of gender-based violence and inadequate state support in post-Soviet Russia. The podcast underscores the vulnerability of women in such contexts and the systemic failures that allow such crimes to occur.
Secrets of Lake Seminole
The podcast details the investigation into the murder of Mike Williams, revealing a conspiracy involving his wife, Denise, and best friend, Brian, driven by life insurance fraud and ultimately leading to their convictions.
This podcast recounts the chilling true crime story of Mike Williams, a duck hunter who mysteriously disappeared. Initial investigations suggested an accidental drowning, but persistent efforts by his mother and determined detectives uncovered a shocking murder plot. The investigation focused on Mike's wife, Denise, and his best friend, Brian Winchester, revealing a complex web of deceit, financial irregularities, and a suspicious relationship between Denise and Brian after Mike's death. The investigation intensified, uncovering inconsistencies and evidence pointing towards a premeditated murder for financial gain, specifically a large life insurance payout. A crucial turning point came with Brian's kidnapping of Denise, leading to his arrest and confession. Brian's testimony detailed the conspiracy, implicating Denise in the planning and execution of the murder. Denise's trial followed, with Brian's confession as key evidence, resulting in her conviction for first-degree murder and conspiracy. The podcast concludes with the aftermath, highlighting the sentences received and the lasting impact on the families involved.
Secrets of the Sliding Door
The murder of beloved teacher Siminette Mapes-Croopy on Staten Island leads investigators to her husband, Jonathan, whose alibi unravels through DNA evidence, a secret affair, and incriminating online searches, resulting in his conviction for second-degree murder.
This podcast details the investigation into the murder of Siminette Mapes-Croopy, a well-loved high school teacher in Staten Island. Initially appearing to be a burglary gone wrong, inconsistencies quickly emerged. The husband, Jonathan Croopy, provided an alibi, but the excessive violence at the scene raised suspicions. The investigation uncovered a secret long-term relationship between Jonathan and an escort, "Ms. Pumpkin." Crucially, DNA evidence linked "Ms. Pumpkin" to the crime scene, providing key information about Jonathan's whereabouts on the day of the murder. Further investigation revealed marital troubles, financial issues, and Jonathan's deception about his master's degree. A second search of the house uncovered a hidden bag containing a laptop with incriminating online searches related to violence and cleaning up a crime scene. The time of death contradicted Jonathan's alibi. Ultimately, Jonathan Croopy was arrested, tried, and convicted of second-degree murder. The case highlights the devastating impact on Siminette's family and students while showcasing the meticulous work of investigators in uncovering the truth.
A dentist on trial for poisoning his wife. And detectives' doubts about the case of a Virginia dad accused of conspiring with his au pair.
This Dateline podcast covers the trials of James Craig for his wife's murder using potassium cyanide, Brendan Banfield for a catfishing-related murder, verdicts in other murder cases, and a new law enforcement impersonation scam.
This Dateline podcast episode begins with an advertisement for Dateline Premium, followed by a discussion of Tom Yalvis taking over NBC Nightly News. The main focus is the trial of James Craig, a dentist accused of poisoning his wife, Angela, with potassium cyanide. Evidence includes surveillance footage, incriminating internet searches, and Craig's alleged affairs. The episode also covers the Brendan Banfield case, where the defense challenges the prosecution's catfishing theory, suggesting the victim may have been responsible. Further segments discuss verdicts in the murder trials of Dan Seraphini and Karina Cooper, and a new scam involving criminals impersonating law enforcement officers to extort money. The podcast concludes with advice on avoiding this scam.
MURDERED: Kristin David
The podcast investigates the 1981 murder of Kristen David, exploring witness accounts, forensic evidence, potential suspects like George Williamson and Harry Hantman, and a disturbing song, ultimately urging listeners to help connect the case to similar unsolved murders.
This podcast delves into the cold case of Kristen David, a University of Idaho student whose dismembered body was found in the Snake River in 1981. The investigation highlights unusual aspects of the crime scene, including the dismemberment method, the missing leg, and the lack of personal belongings. Witness accounts mention a brown van and a man seen with Kristen near Highway 95. While potential bloodstains on a bridge were investigated, they proved not to be blood. The podcast explores several potential suspects, including George Williamson, Donald White, and Pete Madsen, analyzing their connections to the case. A disturbing song, "I Don't Want to Go to Jail," with lyrics mirroring the crime, is discussed, along with the suicide of suspect Harry Hantman. The hosts also introduce a new potential suspect, a former military medical specialist, and conclude by urging listeners to provide information on similar unsolved cases, suggesting a possible serial killer connection.
A verdict in Kentucky's "trial of the decade." Snapchat messages on the stand. Plus, Josh Mankiewicz drops by.
NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Yamas's introduction is followed by Dateline True Crime Weekly's coverage of the Karina Cooper murder trial (using Snapchat evidence), updates on other trials (Colorado dentist, Dan Serafini, Sean "Diddy" Combs), and Josh Mankiewicz's investigation into the Nancy Snow cold case.
This Dateline True Crime Weekly podcast episode begins with an introduction to Tom Yamas's new role as anchor of NBC Nightly News. The main focus is on several true crime cases. The trial of Karina Cooper, accused of murdering her husband Ryan, is highlighted, with Snapchat messages between Cooper and Houston Danker serving as key evidence alongside financial motives. The episode also provides updates on other trials: the Colorado dentist murder trial (featuring the arson arrest of an attorney), the Dan Serafini murder trial (closing arguments), and the upcoming sentencing of Sean "Diddy" Combs. Finally, Josh Mankiewicz discusses the 45-year-old cold case of Nancy Snow, revealing a potential personal connection to the case due to his presence in Washington D.C. during the time of her disappearance. The podcast utilizes circumstantial evidence and digital forensics in its analysis of these cases.
Out There in the Dark
The murder of Brandy Daniels led investigators to uncover a conspiracy between her ex-husband, Josh, and his gym acquaintance, Sirius, involving a burner phone, cell phone forensics, and ultimately resulting in Alford pleas for both men.
This podcast details the investigation into the murder of Brandy Daniels, a young mother found shot three times in her car. Robbery was ruled out. Initial suspects included her ex-husband, Josh, who was in Alaska, and her fiancé, Craig, who had an alibi. The investigation focused on Sirius Underwood, a gym acquaintance of Josh's, whose alibi was inconsistent. Crucial evidence emerged from cell phone tower data and a burner phone used to contact Josh in Alaska. A voicemail on Josh's phone was identified as Sirius's voice. Sirius then wiped his phone clean. Further investigation revealed Josh and Sirius's involvement in robberies, and a witness in Alaska reported Josh's confession to killing Brandy, implicating Sirius. The motive was to prevent Brandy from exposing their criminal activities. Both Josh and Sirius were arrested. Josh pleaded guilty, implicating Sirius as the shooter. Sirius entered an Alford plea. The case highlights the importance of cell phone forensics in solving complex crimes.
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