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Killer Psychologist
Killer Psychologist
Author: Dana R. Anderson, PsyD
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© Copyright Dana R. Anderson, PsyD
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Step inside the mind of a forensic psychologist. Dr. Dana Anderson breaks down high-stakes criminal cases with clinical precision — exposing deception, uncovering motive, and revealing how forensic psychology dismantles the most complex criminal narratives.
With her are new killer experts each month, including death-row survivor William A. Noguera, who recently helped solve four serial killer cold cases— proving that lived experience, when paired with investigational skill, can solve what others miss. Together, they examine the minds of violent offenders, decode behavior patterns, and illuminate the psychological signatures that define a killer.
Tune in for gripping analysis that shows how forensic experts strengthen legal cases through expert testimony, case evaluations, and strategic courtroom insight. This isn’t just true crime — it’s criminal psychology in motion, led by two killer experts who know the mind of a killer from the inside out.
Killer Psychologist unites top experts, investigators, and real forensic perspectives to explore the darkest corners of human behavior — without filters, sensationalism, or shortcuts.
📺 Watch video episodes on YouTube @killerpsychologist
⚖️ Book a forensic expert or case consultation at www.psychologydr.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.
With her are new killer experts each month, including death-row survivor William A. Noguera, who recently helped solve four serial killer cold cases— proving that lived experience, when paired with investigational skill, can solve what others miss. Together, they examine the minds of violent offenders, decode behavior patterns, and illuminate the psychological signatures that define a killer.
Tune in for gripping analysis that shows how forensic experts strengthen legal cases through expert testimony, case evaluations, and strategic courtroom insight. This isn’t just true crime — it’s criminal psychology in motion, led by two killer experts who know the mind of a killer from the inside out.
Killer Psychologist unites top experts, investigators, and real forensic perspectives to explore the darkest corners of human behavior — without filters, sensationalism, or shortcuts.
📺 Watch video episodes on YouTube @killerpsychologist
⚖️ Book a forensic expert or case consultation at www.psychologydr.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.
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Ed Gein: Psycho Killer or Hollywood Myth?Before Norman Bates and Buffalo Bill, there was Ed Gein. He only had two confirmed victims, so how did he become one of the most notorious “serial killers” in American history?In this episode, forensic psychologist Dana Anderson and serial-killer expert William A. Noguera break down the real facts of the Ed Gein case, from his disturbing skin trophies to his coerced confessions. Tune in to hear what Netflix’s Monster: The Ed Gein Story got wrong and what we'll never truly know.Topics discussed:Is Ed Gein a serial killer?How his relationship with his mother shaped his crimesWhat’s true (and what’s not) in Monster: The Ed Gein StoryThe real Ed Gein vs. Hollywood’s portrayal1950s psychology and the overdiagnosis of schizophreniaThe psychology behind his crimes: paraphilias and psychosisEd Gein’s trial and what happened after his convictionHollywood’s impact on how we view killersDeath row stories of real psychosisWhy we’re missing parts of Ed Gein’s storyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/supportBook a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational purposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comBook a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Thanksgiving Day MassacreA True-Crime Psychological Breakdown. On Thanksgiving Day 2009, a family dinner in Jupiter, Florida turned into one of the most shocking holiday homicides in modern American history. What began as a quiet evening ended in terror when Paul Merhige retrieved a .40-caliber handgun and murdered five family members without warning — including a 6-year-old child. In this episode, forensic psychologist Dana Anderson and death-row survivor + serial-killer expert William A. Noguera dissect the psychology behind this massacre:• What drives a family annihilator — and why holidays heighten risk• The red flags, resentment, and long-term psychological buildup• What a Kill List reveals about planning, fantasy, and motive• Patterns of familicide, personality structure, and warning signs people missed• Why this case still haunts investigators, clinicians, and familiesA chilling exploration into the mind of a murderer. #ThanksgivingDayMassacre #PaulMerhige #TrueCrimePodcast #KillerPsychologist #Familicide #ForensicPsychologist #WilliamNoguera #KillerMindset #TrueCrimeBreakdown #HolidayHomicide #FamilyAnnihilator #CriminalPsychology #MurderInvestigation #KillList #WarningSigns #MassMurderCase #TrueCrimeStories #PsychologyOfMurderBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
What happens when the Night Stalker becomes your neighbor on death row? For years, William Noguera lived just cells away from Richard Ramirez inside San Quentin, observing one of the most notorious serial killers in American history up close. In this haunting conversation, William reveals Ramirez’s morbid fixation on eyes—cutting them from photographs and, horrifyingly, from one of his victims, leaving them on a dresser.Ramirez’s trial became one of the most expensive in California history, costing $1.8 million and igniting a media frenzy. Behind the headlines was no dark myth— a sadistic pedophile who raped men, women, and children without remorse. Yet even as he awaited execution, duffel bags filled with love letters poured into San Quentin—sent by women desperate to claim the Night Stalker as their own.What drives that kind of attraction to evil? This episode explores the psychology of fascination, the allure of the predator, and hybristophilia—the disturbing compulsion to romanticize monsters. Ramirez terrorized Los Angeles in the 1980s, slipping into homes through unlocked doors and leaving behind a trail of terror that still shadows the city’s collective memory. A chilling reminder to lock your doors tonight. #drdanaanderson #killerpsychologist #williamanoguera #deadbodysociety #serialkiller #deathrow #truecrime #americanmonster #monstersamongus #sanquentin #Unmaskingmonsters #truecrimestory #prisonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Celeste Hernandez was a California teen who vanished—only to be discovered days later, deceased in the trunk of a Tesla in Hollywood. The vehicle belonged to David Burke, known publicly as D4VD, a rising music artist whose meteoric career now intersects with a devastating loss of life.But here’s where the story gets more complex: D4VD has not been arrested.Killer expert William A. Noguera offers a defense-side perspective on the legal and public dynamics surrounding this case—and why neither D4VD nor his attorney has issued a public statement. Together, we break down the timeline of Celeste’s disappearance, the immediate social media reaction, and the public narrative that formed long before law enforcement provided clarity. We explore why no arrest has been made to date, the legal significance of intent and knowledge, and how being connected to a tragedy is not the same as being criminally responsible for it.This episode asks the question circulating everywhere: Is law enforcement quietly building a case behind the scenes— or is the public filling in gaps that the evidence has not yet confirmed?Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Case of Celeste Rivas Hernandez02:17 Legal Advice for the Accused: The Importance of Representation08:50 The Investigation: Unpacking the Circumstances of Celeste's Death14:37 Public Perception and Media Influence on the Case20:32 The Role of Evidence: Surveillance and Relationships26:01 Seeking Justice: The Ethical Responsibility in True Crime Reporting28:56 The Role of Forensic Psychologists in Trials36:13 Understanding Sentencing and Parole Evaluations40:52 The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Behavior45:52 The Importance of Psychological Evaluations in Juvenile Cases51:35 Navigating the Prison System and Cold Cases#drdanaanderson #killerpsychologist #williamanoguera #deadbodysociety #serialkiller #deathrow #truecrime #americanmonster #monstersamongus #sanquentin #Unmaskingmonsters #truecrimestory #prisonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
What makes a serial killer confess to another inmate?Author of Through the Lens of a Monster and death row survivor William Noguera spent over four decades on death row at San Quentin—living alongside the most notorious killers in American history. Behind prison walls, he gained the trust of serial killer Joseph Naso, leading to new revelations that helped identify four previously unsolved murders linked to Naso.These discoveries inspired the Oxygen True Crime original docuseries Death Row Confidential: Secrets of a Serial Killer. In this episode, William recounts how he worked with Detective Ken Mains to uncover hidden truths, helping close cold cases and expose “Dirty Joe”—a sadistic sexual predator who fooled even seasoned investigators.He breaks down how the criminal mind operates behind bars and reveals what drives killers to confess. This is a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the psychology of true evil—told by the man who lived among it. What William shares here may forever change how you define the word monster. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Killer Psychologist00:49 William Noguera's Journey from Death Row04:47 The Role of Collaboration in Solving Cases10:02 Insights from Serial Killers: A Unique Perspective14:59 The Justice System and Its Flaws19:56 Understanding Joseph Naso: The Prolific Killer24:54 The Importance of Awareness and Education30:06 The Role of Rehabilitation in Criminal Justice34:59 The Ongoing Fight Against Serial Killers40:00 Future Collaborations and Projects44:40 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action#drdanaanderson #killerpsychologist #williamanoguera #deadbodysociety #serialkiller #deathrow #truecrime #americanmonster #monstersamongus #sanquentin #Unmaskingmonsters #truecrimestory #prisonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Killer Psychologist speaks with Johnny Trevisani, author of Serial Killer Quote of the Day—a book that compiles the most unsettling, revealing, and disturbingly casual words from history’s deadliest killers. Together, they explore why these murderers spoke the way they did, what their words expose about manipulation, delusions, and psychopathy, and why society remains transfixed by their stories long after the crimes are over.Beyond Serial Killer Quote of the Day, Trevisani expands his morbid map with The Serial Killer Travel Guide Across America: Your Coast-to-Coast Tour of Terror. Far from a standard true-crime chronicle, it reads like a dark tourism roadmap—taking readers to the real-world locations where horror once lived. Blending history, psychology, and a touch of gallows humor, Trevisani invites us to walk the thin line between fascination and fear… and to ask what draws us toward the darkness we claim to dread.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Dark Side of Psychology02:52 Exploring Serial Killer Quotes06:08 The Fascination with Serial Killers08:46 Understanding the Mind of a Killer11:55 The Role of Childhood Trauma14:46 Dark Tourism and Serial Killer Travel17:36 The Psychology Behind Serial Killers20:38 The Allure of True Crime23:47 Female Serial Killers and Their Motives26:44 The Impact of Parental Influence29:51 The Importance of Early Intervention32:51 Conclusion and Future EndeavorsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Why are psychopaths drawn to power—and what happens when they get it?Criminal defense attorney Joseph Tully, author of California: State of Collusion, joins forensic psychologists Dana Anderson and Craig Wetterer to examine how psychopathy in positions of authority reveals itself. These individuals are not guided by justice—their moral compass is broken—and the collateral damage they leave behind is part of the story we uncover.Together, they unpack Tully’s book, which exposes California’s corrupt criminal justice system and the culture of power, conspiracy, and cover-ups that fuel it.Nobody knows this story better than Joseph Tully—and in this episode, he connects those systemic abuses to the psychology of power and the dangers of psychopathic personalities.Power is never more dangerous than when it rests in the hands of those who decide who walks free—and who is condemned.📖 Grab Joseph Tully’s book California: State of Collusion: Amazon Link🔗 tully-weiss.com | Instagram: @tullyweiss.lawChapters00:00 Introduction to Psychopathy and Power05:49 The Criminal Justice System and Psychopathy10:28 The Role of Psychopaths in Law Enforcement17:12 Challenges in the Legal System23:24 The Impact of Public Perception on Justice30:15 The Importance of Ethical Practices36:20 The Need for Mental Health Support in Law Enforcement42:15 Addressing Systemic Issues in the Justice System49:21 The Role of Psychologists in the Legal System56:48 Conclusion and Call to ActionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Lyle and Eric Menendez, convicted of the 1996 murders of their parents, are now facing the possibility of parole. In May 2025, a judge resentenced them to life with the possibility of parole, clearing the way for hearings scheduled on August 21 and 22.Are the Menendez brothers truly rehabilitated—or do they still pose a danger to society? Join host Dr. Dana Anderson as she speaks with veteran defense attorney Sam Bassett about the legal strategy behind their resentencing. Forensic psychologist Dr. Craig Wetter weighs in on clinical tools like the HCR-20 and PCL-R, used to assess whether someone presents an unreasonable risk to public safety if released.At the crossroads of crime, politics, and psychology, this episode unpacks how parole law and forensic risk tools shape the fate of two of America’s most notorious inmates.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Menendez Brothers Case01:58 Parole Hearing Dynamics and Public Perception04:04 Understanding Remorse and Risk Assessment Tools08:01 Psychopathy and Personality Disorders in Context12:08 Youthful Offender Laws and Their Implications15:59 The Role of AI in Risk Assessments19:49 Life After Prison: Challenges and Opportunities24:06 Public Opinion and Media Influence27:48 Redemption Stories and Future Paths31:53 The Importance of Addressing Abuse35:41 Conclusion and Future ConsiderationsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Where is the knife that killed four University of Idaho students? Did Brian Kohberger toss it out the window in a panic — or bury it deep in the woods?Join private investigator Jason Jensen as we launch a targeted search for the missing murder weapon on June 21-22, 2025.Discover how the knife sheath became the critical DNA link to Kohberger's arrest — and why forensic psychologists are called to evaluate suspects in custody for murder. We also examine killers who couldn’t resist leaving clues behind — from BTK’s Dennis Rader to Ted Bundy’s trail of discarded weapons — and explore why some murderers toy with law enforcement while others vanish without a trace.Plus, we pull in twists from the Karen Read case and reflect on the tragic mystery surrounding Kurt Cobain.Hooked on the criminal mind? Visit www.killerpsychologistpodcast.com for episode details.Need a forensic psychologist for your next killer case? Book Dr. Anderson at www.psychologydr.comChapters00:00 The Idaho Murders: A Gruesome Crime00:58 The Search for the Missing Knife07:48 Understanding Kohberger's Mindset15:29 The Autism Diagnosis and Its Implications25:22 The Karen Read Case: Analyzing Evidence41:05 Future Investigations: The Kurt Cobain CaseBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
A Texas teen created 764—an online predator ring hidden inside Discord, Minecraft, and Telegram. At 15, Bradley Cadenhead used these platforms to groom minors, share violent content, and instruct others on how to control and destroy victims.Children were coerced into self-harm, forced to carve “764” into their skin, and pushed toward livestreamed suicide. His server contained child sexual abuse material, animal torture, and blackmail schemes masked as friendship.Craig Wetterer, forensic psychologist explains the psychological vulnerabilities exploited in these cases. Eric Zelaya, board-certified criminal defense and forensic death investigator, reveals how decentralized gang tactics have gone digital and live inside your child’s DM's.🔗 Need a forensic psychologist for your next case? Visit psychologydr.com🎧 Full episodes at killerpsychologistpodcast.comChapters00:00 Introduction to 764 and Its Origins02:58 Psychological Vulnerabilities in Children05:14 Organized Crime vs. Cult Dynamics09:08 Sextortion and Its Impact on Teens12:20 The Dangers of Swatting and Psychological Manipulation15:14 Bradley Cadenhead's Sentencing and Legal Consequences18:10 The Role of Money in Criminal Organizations21:18 Fan Signing and Psychological Coercion24:07 Victim Stories and Parental Oversight27:27 Conversations About Online Safety with Children28:53 The Role of Sensationalism in Media29:37 Role-Playing Scenarios for Child Safety31:20 Understanding Vulnerability in Correctional Settings32:10 Contraband and Corruption in Prisons34:27 The Consequences of Staff Misconduct36:04 Background Checks and Staff Integrity38:01 Manipulation and Suggestibility in Prisons40:08 The Rise of Digital Extortion42:25 Parental Guidance in the Digital Age44:16 Final Thoughts and Resources for ParentsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
A Florida attorney. A jailhouse drug ring. And a synthetic street drug disguised as legal mail. Welcome to Paper Dope.Dana Anderson is joined by defense attorney Alex King to unpack the case of Jacksonville lawyer Nathan Williams—arrested in January 2025 for allegedly smuggling drug-laced documents into the Duval County Jail. Authorities say Williams conspired with inmates and their families to sneak in synthetic marijuana, known as K2 or Spice, in exchange for money. His arrest was part of "Operation Stamp Collection," a crackdown that significantly reduced inmate overdoses.Linked to erratic behavior, overdoses, and sudden death, “paper dope” is volatile by design—each hit a chemical wildcard. What exactly is it? How is it made? And what happens when the defense becomes the defendant?Alex King breaks down the drug, the charges, and the ethical fallout—plus a look at Dr. John W. Huffman, the scientist whose research compound JWH-018 was hijacked for street use. Think Walter White—but legal mail edition.📌 Connect with Alex King: https://www.jaxcriminal.com/about-us/alex-king🧠 Need a Killer Psychologist? http://www.psychologydr.comChapters00:00 Introduction to the Case02:00 Understanding the Smuggling Mechanism05:57 Security Concerns in Jails07:01 The Role of Attorneys in Drug Smuggling11:53 Financial Pressures and Ethical Dilemmas12:18 White Collar Crime Dynamics16:12 Chemical Composition of Synthetic Drugs19:32 Impact of Drug Smuggling on Jail Protocols21:31 Understanding K2 and Spice24:02 The Dangers of Misinformation27:30 Educating the Youth on Drug Risks30:20 The Dangers of Synthetic Drugs33:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Custody is supposed to protect children — not bury them. In this harrowing episode, forensic psychologists Dana Anderson and Craig Wetterer expose the fatal fallout of high-conflict family court battles. Drawing from firsthand experience as a court-appointed evaluator, Dr. Anderson breaks down how custody disputes can spiral into calculated violence. True cases include:A mother who fatally stabbed her son after a court-approved Disneyland trip — then calmly called 911.A woman who had her child’s father executed just hours after a judge granted him shared custody.A 20-year-old father gunned down in Mississippi over a custody fight.A double murder during a custody deposition at a Las Vegas law firm.Because in family court, the most dangerous thing isn’t losing custody — it’s what someone will do to avoid it.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Forensic Psychology and Child Custody Evaluations02:09 Understanding High-Risk Parents in Family Court06:21 Personality Disorders and Their Impact on Parenting10:38 The Role of Substance Abuse in Custody Cases15:58 Case Studies: Homicides Linked to Custody Battles20:40 Evaluating Competence and Risk in Custody Cases25:11 The Importance of Thorough Evaluations30:00 Family Dynamics and Violence in Custody Situations35:10 The Role of Communication in Evaluations40:18 Concluding Thoughts on Forensic Evaluations and Family LawBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Custody cases are meant to protect children — but in juvenile dependency court, the stakes are higher, and the consequences can be irreversible. This isn’t mom vs. dad. It’s the state vs. the parent, with the child caught in the crossfire. Award-winning family law attorney Lauren Johnson-Norris joins forensic psychologist Dana Anderson to reveal what really happens behind closed courtroom doors. From children torn from safe homes without cause, to tragedies like Gabriel Fernandez, whose abuse was reported but ignored, this episode uncovers the silent failures of the child protection system.We also examine the haunting case of Shane Miller, a father with a violent past who murdered his wife and two daughters — a chilling reminder of what can happen when red flags are missed.And we ask the harder question: What happens when CPS goes too far? When the effort to protect becomes the reason families are torn apart?When child protection fails—or overreaches—lives are shattered. Step inside juvenile dependency court with a family law attorney and forensic psychologist who’ve seen it all.You can connect with Lauren Johnson-Norris at californiacriminaldefender.com. Hire a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Juvenile Dependency Court03:04 Understanding Parent Education and Advocacy06:07 The Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Family Dynamics09:08 Challenges Faced by Families in Dependency Court11:46 The Role of Substance Abuse and Mental Health15:10 Systemic Issues in Child Protective Services17:55 The Need for Comprehensive Support Services21:05 The Role of Mental Health Professionals in Family Court26:01 Navigating Mental Health in Family Law30:55 The Complexities of Family Court34:17 The Intersection of Domestic Violence and Family Law38:41 Understanding Firearm Risks in Domestic Situations42:28 The Importance of Empathy in Legal Work47:43 Improving Child Protective Services50:46 Finding Solutions in Family LawBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
After more than 30 years behind bars, Erik and Lyle Menendez are scheduled for a resentencing hearing on May 9, 2025, following new allegations that the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office is too conflicted to oversee the case fairly. Their defense team argues that decades of rehabilitation deserve a second chance at freedom.Netflix’s new documentary, MONSTERS, and the resurgence of public fascination with claims of long-term sexual abuse by their father have reignited the debate: Were the Menendez brothers cold-blooded killers... or desperate survivors?Renowned criminal defense attorney Sam Bassett dissects the explosive case of the Menendez brothers — a story of wealth, abuse, and murder that shattered America's perception of family innocence.Dr. Craig Wetterer joins to play devil’s advocate, presenting the prosecution’s side and revealing how trauma, privilege, and courtroom theatrics collided in one of the most notorious trials of the century.Tune in as we explore how childhood trauma reshapes the courtroom — and why the battle for justice is far from over.Connect with Sam on X (formerly Twitter): @SamBassettlaw https://www.mbfc.com/our-attorneys/samuel-bassettChapters00:00 Introduction to the Menendez Case03:07 Legal Mechanisms for Resentencing06:18 The Role of Forensic Psychology in Sentencing09:29 Risk Assessment Protocols12:02 Self-Defense and Abuse Dynamics16:05 Political Implications of the Case21:01 The Emotional Impact of the Case25:37 Learned Helplessness and Domestic Violence30:25 The Evolution of Psychological Mitigation38:51 The Future of Sexual Abuse Conversations43:55 Predictions for the Menendez Brothers' FutureBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
The road to the death chamber is paved with paperwork, politics—and blood.Former prosecutor and criminal justice columnist Matthew Mangino, author of The Executioner’s Toll, pulls back the curtain on America’s executions. His book documents every person put to death in 2010, exposing the names, the crimes, the last appeals, and the cold precision process behind the state’s deadliest ritual.From firing squads to lethal injection to the quiet hum of the execution chamber—what are their final meals? Their last words? And what does someone say when there’s nothing left to bargain?“It’s not about justice. It’s about finality. And once it’s done—there’s no going back.” — Matthew ManginoStep inside the machinery of death. The sentence is final. The questions aren't.🔗 Learn more about Matthew Mangino:Website: www.mattmangino.com📘 The Executioner’s Toll — available now on Amazon.Chapters 00:00 Exploring Capital Punishment: An Introduction02:59 Matthew Mangino's Insights on the Death Penalty05:58 Trends in Executions and Death Sentences08:50 Methods of Execution: Firing Squad vs. Lethal Injection12:13 The Role of Psychopathy in Capital Cases14:58 Moral and Ethical Considerations of the Death Penalty28:46 The Death Penalty: Public Opinion and High-Profile Cases35:18 Final Words and Last Meals: Insights from Death Row44:28 The Broader Implications of Capital PunishmentBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
From the Hell’s Angels to the man now charged in the 1996 murder of Tupac Shakur, Las Vegas defense attorney Ross Goodman has built his reputation in the eye of the legal storm. A Marine Corps Major turned powerhouse trial lawyer, Goodman is now one of the most well-known and respected names in criminal defense.In this episode of Killer Psychologist, Ross shares how he defends violent crime suspects, celebrity clients, and outlaw bikers, all while managing intense media scrutiny and high-stakes trials. His client list includes UFC fighters Nick Diaz and Wanderlei Silva, pro athletes, and high-profile figures whose cases dominate headlines.We examine the courtroom strategy, psychological pressure, and public perception involved in defending the accused when the spotlight is relentless and the stakes couldn’t be higher.Connect with Ross Goodman:• Website: Goodman Law Group• Facebook: Goodman Law Group• X (formerly Twitter): @rosscgoodmanChapters00:00 Introduction to Ross Goodman and His Career02:12 High-Stakes Legal Decisions06:02 The Tupac Case: Complexities and Challenges10:27 Defendants and Their Statements15:11 Psychological Aspects of High-Profile Cases21:00 The Role of AI in Legal Research26:52 The Hells Angels Case: A Young Lawyer's Journey28:01 Legal Representation Across Gangs and Organizations29:30 The Dangers of Child Custody Cases31:44 Understanding Sociopathy in Legal Contexts33:21 The Art of Jury Trials37:56 Unexpected Verdicts in Court41:02 The Importance of Client Preparation44:51 Budget Cuts and Their Impact on Justice46:06 Navigating Insanity Defenses in Court49:09 The Complexity of Mental Health in Legal Cases54:41 Conclusion and Resources for Legal HelpBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
When high-profile cases collide with Hollywood influence, the courtroom becomes a stage. Attorney David Gelman joins Killer Psychologist to unpack the truth behind the Menendez brothers, Bryan Kohberger, and Sean “Diddy” Combs. From Kim Kardashian’s public advocacy to the media’s grip on public perception, we explore the tension between celebrity influence and cold, hard evidence. Spoiler: Gelman believes the Menendez brothers should stay exactly where they are. As a former prosecutor and seasoned criminal defense attorney, Gelman breaks down the legal realities behind the headlines. He weighs in on the media firestorm surrounding Bryan Kohberger’s defense strategy, the federal investigation into Sean Combs, the lawsuit involving actress Blake Lively and the film It Ends With Us, and the chaos surrounding the Karen Read trial—where a former juror shocked the public by joining the defense team. This episode pulls back the curtain on what really happens when fame, media, and justice collide.Don’t forget to follow for more true crime and courtroom psychology. IG: @dr.dana_anderson X: https://x.com/drdanaandersonConnect with David Gelman: IG: https://www.instagram.com/davidgelmanesqX: https://x.com/DavidGelmanEsqFollow Craig Wetterer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigwettererChapters00:00 Introduction to Celebrity Justice03:10 The Menendez Brothers Case: A Deep Dive06:02 The Role of Media in Shaping Public Perception08:52 Legal Implications of Celebrity Influence11:58 The Impact of Sensationalism on Jury Selection15:03 The Karen Reed Case: Mistrials and Juror Ethics18:06 Comparative Analysis: Prosecution vs. Defense Strategies22:35 Analyzing Evidence and Defense Strategies25:01 Understanding Brady Violations in Legal Cases28:27 The Prospects of Trial and Sentencing30:28 Celebrity Legal Battles and Public Perception34:04 The Risks of Psychological Evaluations in Trials37:16 Diddy's Legal Challenges and Jury Dynamics Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Not every killer hides in the shadows—some wear scrubs.They weren’t stalking dark alleys—they were standing at your bedside, armed with syringes, IV bags, and your blind trust. Explore the chilling psychology behind nurses who kill.From Lucy Letby, the neonatal nurse who murdered in silence, to Charles Cullen, who left a body count across 16 hospitals—these killers didn’t wear masks. They wore name badges.We examine what drives a caregiver to cross the line from healer to harmer, how red flags were ignored, and whether the legal system is equipped to handle murder disguised as medicine. Are they misguided angels of mercy, convinced they’re ending suffering? Or cold-blooded predators exploiting access, authority, and the blind faith of their patients?Joining us is Shannon Casey, a legal nurse consultant who helps law firms uncover the truth behind suspicious deaths. She brings her clinical expertise to dissect the medical records and patterns left behind by these so-called caregivers turned killers.Together, we explore some of the darkest cases in medical history:Lucy Letby – Neonatal killer with a chilling diary confessionCharles Cullen – The most prolific healthcare serial killer in U.S. historyGenene Jones – Created medical emergencies just to “save” her victimsKristen Gilbert – Induced fatal heart attacks to play the heroBeverley Allitt – Harmed children to feed a need for sympathyOrville Lynn Majors – Said he hated old people… and then ensured they diedJane Toppan – Admitted she “got pleasure” holding patients as they slipped awayPeel back the sterile curtain of healthcare and uncover what happens when trust turns toxic—and compassion becomes a deadly disguise.Because sometimes, the most dangerous person in the room… is the one giving you care.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Killer Nurses02:56 The Case of Lucy Letby05:48 Psychological Profiles of Killer Nurses08:52 Methods and Motives Behind Nurse Killers12:03 The Role of Hospitals in Nurse Killings14:53 Historical Cases of Nurse Killers18:08 The Insanity Defense in Nursing Cases21:05 Cultural Issues in Healthcare and Accountability41:25 The Dilemma of Patient Safety vs. Employee Protection48:06 The Consequences of Inadequate Reporting in Healthcare51:00 The Case of Elizabeth Wetloffer: A Canadian Killer Nurse52:47 The Need for Psychological Evaluations in Healthcare59:18 The Impact of Stress and Liability on Healthcare Workers01:01:29 The Case of Beverley Allitt: Attention-Seeking Behavior in Nursing01:11:47 Understanding Fictitious Disorder and Its ImplicationsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Azadeh Atzberger’s life isn’t just a story of survival—it’s a war story. Born into chaos in wartime Iran, she fled as a refugee and endured sexual, physical, and emotional abuse that would’ve broken most people. To escape the relentless pain, she turned to food, drugs, and alcohol—numbing the past in the only way she knew how.But instead of letting her suffering define her, she fought back.Today, Azadeh is a globally recognized advocate for trauma recovery. Through her groundbreaking program, The 12 Steps for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, she helps others escape the grip of abuse and addiction.Her journey echoes the insight of Viktor Frankl, the Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist who believed it’s not suffering that destroys us—it’s suffering without meaning. Azadeh is living proof that even in darkness, purpose can be found, and survival is only the beginning.This episode is a psychological exploration of trauma, resilience, and what it takes to reclaim a life stolen by abuse.We explore:How Azadeh found meaning in her suffering—and how that shaped her survivalHer path to reclaiming control after war, abuse, and addictionHow The 12 Steps for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery became her purposeWhat survivors can learn from her transformationPrepare for a gripping conversation that blends forensic psychology, true crime, and the raw truth of post-traumatic growth.🔗 Learn more about Azadeh and her work:Website: https://finallyfreelife.comInstagram: @breakfree_riseandbuildPrograms: 12 Steps for Narcissistic Abuse RecoveryChapters00:00 Introduction to Killer Psychologist02:11 Survivor Stories: From Victim to Advocate03:45 Childhood Trauma: Growing Up in Violence06:04 Family Dynamics: The Impact of a Narcissistic Parent10:06 The Journey of Healing: Overcoming Addiction and Abuse12:11 Finding Meaning in Suffering: Lessons from Trauma14:08 The Importance of Deep Healing: Breaking the Cycle17:34 Defining Moments: Choosing to Heal or Return20:45 Creating a Support System: The Role of Community22:41 The 12 Steps for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery25:12 Cognitive Dissonance: Understanding the Mind's Tricks30:14 Emotional Boundaries: Protecting Yourself After Abuse37:58 Building Your Inner Home44:38 The Dangers of Dating in Vulnerability49:23 Confronting the Past: Healing from Abuse01:00:49 Emotional Intelligence and ResilienceBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.
Joshua Garbutt’s death was preventable. He understood the dangers of opioid withdrawal and warned Trinity County Jail staff, "I will be withdrawing from fentanyl and had to go to the hospital last time I was here to receive Suboxone, so I won’t die." Despite this, the jail failed to initiate the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) protocol or transfer him to a hospital. Two and a half days later, after repeated pleas for help, Joshua was found dead in solitary confinement.Brian Townsend, retired DEA agent and founder of Only 2mg, joins the conversation to expose the deadly consequences of fentanyl withdrawal and the growing crisis inside U.S. jails. Joshua’s mother, Stacy Pohlmeyer, is fighting for justice, filing a lawsuit against Trinity County and demanding an independent investigation into his death. They examine the 55-page civil complaint, while exploring psychological autopsies, psychiatric acuity reviews, and critical steps to prevent future in-custody deaths.This marks the third in-custody death at Trinity County Jail in just two years. How many more lives will be lost to a system that ignores those in medical crisis?🔗 Learn More & Support #JusticeforJoshua:News Coverage: https://krcrtv.com/news/local/lawsuit-alleges-trinity-county-left-man-to-die-in-solitary-confinementAdvocacy & Legal Action: https://krcrtv.com/news/local/mother-protests-on-anniversary-of-sons-death-in-trinity-county-jailFentanyl Awareness: https://www.only2mg.comThis is an urgent conversation on accountability, policy failures, and the human cost of incarceration. Don't miss it.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.




