The Vibes Were Off
Kathryn Malley and Meg Irwin
Behind every headline is a human heart that kept beating. Join sisters Kathryn and Meg as we look past the yellow tape to find the stories of those who survived the unimaginable. Based in Texas, where the grit is as real as the heat, we explore the bravery of victims turned victors. This isn't just a podcast about what happened; it's about how they fought back and what it takes to heal.
Episodes
The Tragic Life Of Aileen Wuornos
The Tragic Life of Aileen Wuornos | America's Most Notorious Female Serial KillerSeven men murdered. A lifetime of trauma. And a woman whose story would become one of the most disturbing cases in American true crime history.Before Aileen Wuornos became known as one of America's most infamous female serial killers, she was a little girl growing up in a world filled with abuse, abandonment, and unimaginable hardship.By the late 1980s, Aileen was living along Florida's highways, surviving however she could. But when men began disappearing and their bodies were discovered, investigators uncovered a terrifying pattern that would shock the nation.Aileen claimed she killed in self-defense. Prosecutors told a very different story.Was she a cold-blooded predator, a victim of a lifetime of violence, or something far more complicated?In this episode of The Vibes Were Off, Kathryn and Meg dive into the tragic life of Aileen Wuornos, exploring the childhood that shaped her, the murders that made her infamous, and the chilling final chapter of her life.Because sometimes, the most terrifying stories don't begin with murder. They begin long before it.🎧 Listen to The Vibes Were Off on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.💜 Like, subscribe, and tell us your thoughts in the comments!#AileenWuornos #TrueCrime #TheVibesWereOff #TrueCrimePodcast #SerialKiller #TrueCrimeCommunity #CrimeStories
Kim Anh Restaurant Murders
A trusted police officer. A family-owned restaurant. And a betrayal no one inside could have seen coming.In the early morning hours of March 4, 1995, the employees of the Kim Anh restaurant in New Orleans were finishing up for the night when someone they knew and trusted came through the locked front door. What followed was a robbery that left three people dead. But three people inside the restaurant survived by hiding in a walk-in cooler and what they witnessed would expose an almost unbelievable truth. One of the people responsible was Antoinette Frank, a New Orleans police officer who had worked security at the very restaurant she targeted. Even more chillingly, after leaving the scene, Frank returned in uniform with responding police officers. This week on The Vibes Were Off, we’re telling the horrifying story of the Kim Anh Restaurant Murders a case of trust, betrayal, survival, and a killer hiding behind a badge.Resources:https://www.wdsu.com/article/rogers-lacaze-antoinette-franks-co-conspirator-no-longer-on-death-row-after-resentencing/30222316. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kim_Anh_murders. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antoinette_Frank. https://www.fox8live.com/2026/06/03/former-new-orleans-police-officer-death-row-since-1995-expected-court/. Snapped: Killer Couples (2015) Season 5, Episode 8. Picture Credit: https://www.nola.com/news/courts/attorney-general-death-penalty-louisiana-supreme-court/article_55c1f3fc-1382-44ca-8651-a0a7147ce2a7.html. https://mylifeofcrime.wordpress.com/tag/kim-anh-restaurant/. Produced By: Raymond Malley
Trapped Underground: Elizabeth Shoaf's Escape
Fourteen-year-old Elizabeth Shoaf was walking home from school when a stranger appeared.He told her he was a police officer.He wasn’t.Within minutes, Elizabeth was being led away from the road, deeper and deeper into the woods. Waiting for her beneath the forest floor was something almost impossible to imagine: a hidden underground bunker.For ten days, Elizabeth was held captive in a place no one knew existed. Above her, search parties were desperately looking for any sign of the missing teenager. Below ground, Elizabeth knew that if she wanted to make it home, she couldn’t just wait to be found.She had to find a way to lead them to her.And then, her captor made one tiny mistake.What followed was a terrifying game of patience, deception, survival and a secret message that would begin to unravel everything.This is the story of Elizabeth Shoaf: the girl trapped underground. Resources: https://blurredbylines.com/articles/elizabeth-shoaf-girl-in-the-bunker-kidnapping-text-filyaw/https://allthatsinteresting.com/elizabeth-shoafhttps://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna23522127
Surviving Flight 571: Stranded In The Andes
On Friday, October 13th 1972, a plane carrying a Uruguayan rugby team, along with friends and family, disappeared into the Andes Mountains. When the wreckage was finally found, the world would learn that some of the passengers had survived—and what they endured for 72 days in one of the most unforgiving places on Earth was almost impossible to comprehend.Stranded high in the mountains with no way to call for help, surrounded by snow and freezing temperatures, the survivors waited for a rescue that wasn’t coming. Then they heard devastating news: the search for them had been called off.What followed was an extraordinary fight to stay alive—through starvation, an avalanche, impossible decisions, and ultimately a desperate journey across the Andes in search of help.This is the story of Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571, often called the Miracle of the Andes—and the people who refused to give up when the rest of the world believed they were already dead.This is Surviving Flight 571.Resources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uruguayan_Air_Force_Flight_571https://www.today.com/popculture/andes-uruguay-plane-crash-1972-survivors-now-rcna133498. I Am Alive: Surviving the Andes Plane Crash (2010) https://abcnews.com/US/survivors-1972-uruguay-plane-crash-revisit-tale-extremes/story?id=98405303. https://www.today.com/popculture/movies/uruguay-andes-plane-crash-1972-photos-society-of-the-snow-rcna133645. https://arptravels.com/voyages/flight-571-survivors-now. https://animalia-life.club/qa/pictures/uruguayan-air-force-flight-571-map. https://simpleflying.com/uruguayan-air-force-flight-571-story/. Produced By:Raymond Malley
America's First Abduction: The Betty & Barney Hill Story
In September 1961, Betty and Barney Hill were driving home through the quiet mountains of New Hampshire when a strange light appeared in the night sky. At first, they thought it might be a satellite or a plane, but as the object seemed to follow them, their drive home became increasingly unsettling.By the time Betty and Barney finally made it home, something felt wrong. Their watches had stopped, there were unexplained marks on their car, and somehow, they had lost nearly two hours of time.What happened during those missing hours would eventually make Betty and Barney Hill the center of one of the most famous alleged alien abduction cases in American history.This is the story that helped define the modern UFO encounter—and more than 60 years later, people are still debating what really happened on that lonely New Hampshire road.Resources:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barney_and_Betty_Hill_incidenthttps://www.bpl.org/blogs/post/the-abduction-of-betty-and-barney-hill/https://allthatsinteresting.com/betty-and-barney-hillAlien Abduction: Betty and Barney Hill - HBO MaxProduced By: Raymond Malley
The Butcher Baker of Alaska - The Survival Story of Cindy Paulson
Cindy Paulson was barefoot, handcuffed, and running for her life.Behind her sat a small plane and the man who had kidnapped her. Seventeen-year-old Cindy knew that if Robert Hansen managed to get her into that plane and out into the remote Alaskan wilderness, she might never come back.So when Hansen turned his attention away, for just a moment, Cindy ran.What she didn't know was that her escape would help expose one of Alaska's most notorious serial killers.For years, Robert Hansen appeared to be an ordinary Anchorage baker and family man. But behind that carefully constructed life was a predator who targeted women, abducting and assaulting them before taking some into the isolated wilderness surrounding Anchorage, where he murdered them and concealed their bodies.In 1983, Hansen abducted Cindy. He held her captive for hours before taking her toward his plane. But Cindy refused to become another name on a missing-person poster. She found her moment, escaped, and made it to a nearby road, where a passing driver stopped to help her.Cindy told police everything she could remember. Hansen denied her story and even had people backing up his alibi, but investigators eventually began taking a much closer look at the quiet local baker.What they discovered inside Hansen's home, and marked on a map of the Alaskan wilderness would finally reveal the truth.Hansen eventually confessed to multiple murders and led investigators to the remains of several of his victims. He was sentenced to 461 years plus life in prison and died behind bars in 2014.This is the terrifying story of the man who became known as the Butcher Baker of Alaska and the incredible survival story of Cindy Paulson, the teenager who got away and helped bring his crimes to an end.Resources:A&E F1rst Blood: Season 1, Episode 2. Mind of a Monster: The Butcher Baker (2024) – Investigation Discovery https://www.aetv.com/articles/alaska-serial-killer-robert-hansen. https://www.violentminds.com/serial-killers/robert-hansen/. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/serial-killer-robert-hansen-victim-identified-robin-pelkey/. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Hansen. https://lawandcrime.com/they-walk-among-america/fbi-profilers-helped-track-killer-who-hunted-women-in-1970s-and-1980s-alaska/. https://www.alaska.org/maps. https://people.com/how-was-robert-hansen-serial-killer-caught-11989403. Produced By: Raymond Malley
Terror on the Tracks: Holly Dunn's Survival
What began as an ordinary night changed Holly Dunn's life forever. While walking with her boyfriend Chris, the young couple was attacked near a set of railroad tracks. Chris lost his life, and Holly was left to face an unimaginable fight for survival.Against all odds, Holly made it out alive.Years later, investigators identified her attacker as Angel Maturino Reséndiz, the notorious Railway Killer responsible for a series of murders across the United States. In this episode, we follow Holly's incredible journey of survival, the decades-long hunt that finally brought her attacker to justice, and the resilience that allowed her to turn tragedy into a life of hope and healing.Resources: Book: Sole Survivor - Holly K Dunnhttps://www.hollyshouse.org/http://www.hollykdunn.com/I survived a serial killer: S1-E2https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%81ngel_Maturino_Res%C3%A9ndiz
Man on the Run: The Survival Story of Tyler Montgomery and Carla Wright
Scott Eizember's desperate attempt to stay one step ahead of law enforcement turned into a deadly rampage. In Part 2, we examine the heartbreaking murders of A.J. and Patsy Cantrell, a couple whose kindness put them directly in the path of one of Oklahoma's most dangerous fugitives.As the search for Scott intensified, his violence didn't stop. Travis and Carla soon found themselves trapped in a terrifying fight for their lives when they unexpectedly crossed paths with the armed fugitive. Against overwhelming odds, they fought back and survived an encounter that very few people could have escaped.Join us as we break down the events that led to these devastating crimes, the incredible courage and resilience of the survivors, and the relentless investigation that finally closed in on Scott Eizember before he could claim another victim.Resources: Johnny Melton’s Statement - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpKrXHY8eG0 (starts around 13 minute mark). https://www.newson6.com/story/5e367ebd2f69d76f62092470/arkansas-couple-talks-about-their-ordeal-with-scott-eizember. https://www.newson6.com/story/5e3687fd2f69d76f6209e101/scott-eizembers-conviction-upheld. https://www.foxnews.com/us/oklahoma-death-row-inmates-last-words-execution-conscience-clear. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/scott-eizember-executed-oklahoma/. https://www.yahoo.com/news/death-row-inmates-spiritual-advisor-000900408.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall. https://law.justia.com/cases/oklahoma/court-of-appeals-criminal/2007/450859.html. https://www.newsweek.com/scott-eizemeber-oklahoma-execution-killing-elderly-couple-1773354.https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/galleries/article-11629389/Oklahoma-inmate-executed-2003-murder-elderly-couple.html. Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cy5uzY0KtM&t=180s. TV Series: I Almost Got Away With It: Got to Get Revenge – Season 3, Episode 6 TV Series: I Survived – Season 1, Episode 2 TV Series: House of Horrors: Kidnapped – The End of the Road – Season 1, Episode 9Produced By: Raymond Malley
Man on the Run: The Survival Story of Dr. Sam and Suzanne Peebles
Scott Eizember had already spent years on the run when he crossed paths with Dr. Sam and Suzanne Peebles. What should have been an ordinary evening quickly turned into a fight for survival as the couple found themselves trapped in a nightmare that would leave one of them fighting for life and the other forced to make impossible decisions.In Part 1, we unravel the events that led to the attack, Scott Eizember's violent past, and the terrifying kidnapping that set off one of Oklahoma's largest manhunts. This is the incredible survival story of Dr. Sam and Suzanne Peebles—and the beginning of a case that shocked the nation.Resources:Johnny Melton’s Statement - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpKrXHY8eG0 (starts around 13 minute mark). https://www.newson6.com/story/5e367ebd2f69d76f62092470/arkansas-couple-talks-about-their-ordeal-with-scott-eizember. https://www.newson6.com/story/5e3687fd2f69d76f6209e101/scott-eizembers-conviction-upheld. https://www.foxnews.com/us/oklahoma-death-row-inmates-last-words-execution-conscience-clear. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/scott-eizember-executed-oklahoma/. https://www.yahoo.com/news/death-row-inmates-spiritual-advisor-000900408.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall. https://law.justia.com/cases/oklahoma/court-of-appeals-criminal/2007/450859.html. https://www.newsweek.com/scott-eizemeber-oklahoma-execution-killing-elderly-couple-1773354.https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/galleries/article-11629389/Oklahoma-inmate-executed-2003-murder-elderly-couple.html. Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cy5uzY0KtM&t=180s. TV Series: I Almost Got Away With It: Got to Get Revenge – Season 3, Episode 6 TV Series: I Survived – Season 1, Episode 2 TV Series: House of Horrors: Kidnapped – The End of the Road – Season 1, Episode 9Produced By: Raymond Malley
Episode 40 - Mark Goodyear: Evil Finds a Way
Herb Baumeister is dead... but the investigation is far from over. In the final chapter of our Mark Goodyear series, we follow the twists and turns of the Fox Hollow Farm investigation as detectives search for answers, new suspects emerge, and one man—Tom—finds himself at the center of growing suspicion. Was the case truly solved, or are there still pieces of the puzzle missing? Join us as we examine the evidence, the theories, and the questions that continue to haunt one of America's most disturbing serial killer cases.Resources:HBO’s limited series - The Fox Hollow Murders: Playground of a serial killerhttps://www.thejohnnydoeproject.com/portfolio/herbert-richard-baumeister/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb_Baumeisterhttps://indyencyclopedia.org/herbert-baumeister/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-11-10-mn-63248-story.htmlhttps://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/crime/herb-baumeister-serial-killer-new-victim-daniel-halloran-b2742502.htmlGhost Adventures: Season 11, episode 9Produced By: Raymond Malley
Episode 39 - Mark Goodyear: Survivor or Storyteller?
In Part 2 of our three-part series on Mark Goodyear, we take a closer look at the man at the center of one of Indiana's most disturbing murder cases—Herb Baumeister.Who was the quiet family man behind Fox Hollow Farm, and how did he become one of America's most infamous suspected serial killers? We explore Baumeister's double life, the chilling tactics he allegedly used to lure victims, and the terrifying night Mark says Baumeister attempted to kill him. As Mark's story unfolds, the line between survival and unimaginable horror becomes even more unsettling.Join Kathryn and Meg as we examine the evidence, the unanswered questions, and the encounter that may have exposed a killer before the world knew his name.Resources:HBO’s limited series - The Fox Hollow Murders: Playground of a serial killerhttps://www.thejohnnydoeproject.com/portfolio/herbert-richard-baumeister/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb_Baumeisterhttps://indyencyclopedia.org/herbert-baumeister/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-11-10-mn-63248-story.htmlhttps://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/crime/herb-baumeister-serial-killer-new-victim-daniel-halloran-b2742502.htmlGhost Adventures: Season 11, episode 9Produced By: Raymond Malley
Episode 38 - Mark Goodyear: The One That Got Away?
In the first installment of our three-part series, we dive into the chilling story of Mark Goodyear, the man many believe is the only known survivor of suspected serial killer Herb Baumeister. Mark recounts the terrifying night he says Baumeister—using the alias "Brian"—attempted to strangle him inside the infamous Fox Hollow Farm. Against impossible odds, Mark escaped alive, setting the stage for one of the most haunting serial murder investigations in American history.But Mark's story is only the beginning. We also examine the unsolved I-70 Stranglings—a string of murders targeting young men across Indiana and Ohio that many investigators have long suspected were connected to Baumeister, though the cases remain officially unsolved. We break down the victims, the timeline, and the evidence that has fueled this decades-long mystery.Was Herb Baumeister responsible for both the horrors of Fox Hollow Farm and the I-70 Stranglings? And how did Mark Goodyear survive when so many others never made it home?This is Part 1 of an unforgettable three-part journey into one of America's most disturbing unsolved serial killer cases.#TrueCrime #HerbBaumeister #FoxHollowFarm #MarkGoodyear #I70Strangler #SerialKillers #UnsolvedMysteries #TrueCrimePodcast #TheVibesWereOffResources: HBO’s limited series - The Fox Hollow Murders: Playground of a serial killerhttps://www.thejohnnydoeproject.com/portfolio/herbert-richard-baumeister/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb_Baumeisterhttps://indyencyclopedia.org/herbert-baumeister/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-11-10-mn-63248-story.htmlhttps://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/crime/herb-baumeister-serial-killer-new-victim-daniel-halloran-b2742502.htmlGhost Adventures: Season 11, episode 9Produced By: Raymond Malley
Episode 37- No Good Deed - The Survival Story of Brandi Hicks
In May 2000, best friends Liz Reiser and Brandi Hicks were just days away from graduating high school when a simple act of kindness changed their lives forever. After an evening choir banquet, the girls stopped at a local video store to pick out movies for a sleepover. As they were leaving, a stranger approached them and asked for a ride home. Although they were hesitant, Liz and Brandi agreed to help—never imagining the terrifying nightmare that would follow.Once inside their car, the stranger pulled out a gun and forced the girls to drive to a secluded area. There, 17-year-old Liz was brutally attacked. Brandi was abducted and subjected to hours of unimaginable violence before her attacker threw her from a bridge into the Tuscarawas River.But Brandi was still alive.In the cold water below, badly injured and unable to call for help, Brandi realized that her only chance of survival was to convince her attacker that she was not alive. After he finally left, she fought through the pain, made her way out of the river, and held on until help arrived. Her survival—and the information she was able to provide—helped authorities identify the man responsible and bring him to justice.This episode tells the heartbreaking story of Liz Reiser, a kindhearted young woman whose life was taken far too soon, and the incredible survival story of Brandi Hicks—a story of courage, quick thinking, resilience, and the strength it took to survive the unthinkable.Sometimes the smallest act of kindness can lead somewhere no one could have imagined. For Liz and Brandi, one good deed became a nightmare—but Brandi’s determination ensured that their story would be told.#TrueCrime #SurvivorStory #BrandiHicks #LizReiser #NoGoodDeed #TheVibesWereOff #TrueCrimePodcast #fypReferences and Picture Credits: TV Series: I Survived – Season 1 Episode 2TV Series: Dead Silent – Season 2 Episode 3 Strange Passenger https://appgateway.drc.ohio.gov/OffenderSearch/Search/DetailsPrint/A394200. https://www.themirror.com/news/us-news/teen-played-dead-after-being-469651. https://thecinemaholic.com/elizabeth-reiser-murder-where-is-matthew-vaca-now/. https://thecinemaholic.com/where-is-brandi-hicks-now/. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Elizabeth_Reiser. Produced By: Raymond Malley
Episode 36- Missing Without A Trace? The Steven Kubacki Story
In 1978, 24-year-old Steven Kubacki set out on a solo cross-country ski trip near the icy shores of Lake Michigan. When his abandoned skis and tracks leading straight onto the frozen lake were discovered, it appeared he had fallen through the ice and died. Despite an extensive search, no body was ever found.Then, 15 months later, Steven suddenly reappeared over 700 miles away in Massachusetts—with no memory of what had happened. He claimed to have awakened in a field wearing clothes that weren't his, carrying a backpack he didn't recognize, and with no recollection of the missing year and a half of his life.Was it a rare case of dissociative amnesia? Did he intentionally disappear to start a new life? Or is Steven Kubacki one of the most baffling missing-person mysteries ever recorded?In this episode of The Vibes Were Off, we break down the timeline, examine the evidence, explore the psychological explanations, and discuss the theories that continue to surround one of the strangest disappearance stories ever told.Was Steven lost... or was something much stranger going on?🎧 Listen now and decide for yourself.#TrueCrime #MissingPerson #StevenKubacki #UnsolvedMystery #Disappearances #LakeMichigan #MysteryPodcast #TheVibesWereOff #TrueCrimePodcast #ColdCases #StrangeDisappearances #UnexplainedMysteriesResources: The Disappearance: Conspiracy, Revolution, Revelation… The Extraordinary Disappearance of Steven Kubacki (After 45 Years of Silence) by Steven Kubacki, PhD with Dylan James Quarleshttps://ellenkilloran.substack.com/archive: The Misappearance of Steven Kubackihttps://metroeaststar.com/2025/10/07/steven-kubacki-reveals-why-he-disappeared-in-new-book/. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Michigan_Triangle. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naxalism. Photo Credit: https://stevenkubacki.com/. https://www.adirondackexplorer.org/recreation/cross-country-skiing-the-floodwood-ponds-loop/. (Skiing Picture) https://ellenkilloran.substack.com/archive: The Misappearance of Steven Kubacki. Produced by: Raymond Malley
Episode 35 - The Night Lisa McVey Outsmarted A Monster
Lisa McVey was 17 years old, riding her bicycle home from work, when a car slowly pulled up beside her.Moments later, she was kidnapped by a man who had already murdered multiple women—and she was convinced she would never make it home again.But instead of giving in to fear, Lisa did something extraordinary. She stayed calm, studied her captor, memorized every detail she could, and used psychology to convince a serial killer to let her live. What happened after her release was almost as shocking: many people didn't believe her. Even so, Lisa refused to back down, and the information she provided would ultimately lead detectives to one of the most prolific serial killers in Florida history.In this episode of The Vibes Were Off, Kathryn and Meg tell the incredible true story of Lisa McVey's survival, the hunt for Bobby Joe Long, and how one teenager's courage helped stop a killer before he could strike again.Resources:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lisa_McVeyhttps://blurredbylines.com/articles/lisa-mcvey-abduction-story-bobby-joe-long/https://www.tampabay.com/tampa/tampa-serial-killer-bobby-joe-long-is-executed-in-silence-20190523/https://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/2019/05/family-witnesses-execution-of-serial-killer-who-murdered-michigan-woman.htmlhttps://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/its-been-horrible-victims-family-speaks-after-execution-date-set-for-serial-killer/67-831cd9b5-e8c0-43cf-b141-77973c43f9behttps://www.fox13news.com/news/execution-does-not-bring-closure-for-family-of-kim-swann-victim-of-bobby-joe-long
Episode 34- House of Horrors: Pt. 2
In Part 2 of House of Horrors, we dive deeper into the nightmare unfolding inside Gary Heidnik's Philadelphia basement. As the abuse escalates, Heidnik uses fear, starvation, and psychological manipulation to maintain control over the women he has imprisoned. Under constant threats and brutal punishment, trust becomes a luxury none of them can afford.This episode explores the impossible choices the women were forced to make to survive, including how Heidnik manipulated some captives into helping enforce his control over the others. We'll follow the events that ultimately led to his downfall, the daring escape that exposed the horrors hidden inside the house, and the investigation that shocked the nation.Finally, we'll examine what happened to Gary Heidnik after his arrest, the trial that revealed the full extent of his crimes, and the lasting impact his victims' courage had on bringing a monster to justice.Resources:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_M._Heidnik. https://crimelibrary.org/serial_killers/weird/heidnik/. https://law.justia.com/cases/pennsylvania/supreme-court/1991/526-pa-458-1.html. Interview with Gary Heidnik Clip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhBLYDHRCSQ (starts at 13:30) https://www.aetv.com/articles/gary-heidnik. Monster Preacher Documentary: Oxygen True Crime https://www.truecrimeedition.com/post/gary-heidnik. https://theywillkillyou.com/profile/gary-m-heidnik. https://thecinemaholic.com/gary-heidnik-survivors/. TV Show: The Killer Next Door – Gary Heidnik: House of Horrors https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milgram_experiment. Photo Credits: https://allthatsinteresting.com/gary-heidnik. https://crimelibrary.org/serial_killers/weird/heidnik/. https://www.truecrimeedition.com/post/gary-heidnik. https://theywillkillyou.com/profile/gary-m-heidnik. https://murderpedia.org/male.H/h1/heidnik-gary-photos.htm. https://discover.hubpages.com/politics/Serial-Killer-Gary-Heidnik-Inspiration-for-Movie-Silence-of-the-Lambs. https://medium.com/@lisariggio1994/gary-heidnik-and-the-6-women-in-the-cellar-23d87e450596. https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/gary-heidnik-attorney-house-of-horrors-buffalo-bill-true-crime-doc. Produced by: Raymond Malley
Episode 33- House of Horrors: Part 1
At first glance, Gary Heidnik seemed like an unlikely predator—a self-proclaimed preacher who appeared to have wealth, influence, and a quiet life in Philadelphia. But behind closed doors, he was carefully searching for vulnerable women he believed no one would miss.In Part 1, Kathryn and Meg dive into the beginning of Heidnik's horrifying crimes. From the warning signs that were overlooked to the first kidnappings that would set a nightmare in motion, this episode follows how Heidnik lured women into his home and transformed his basement into a prison. As more victims disappeared, the situation became increasingly terrifying, leaving the women trapped in a fight for survival with no way of knowing if they would ever escape.This is the beginning of one of the most disturbing captivity cases in American history—and the story of the women whose courage would eventually help bring it to an end.References:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_M._Heidnik. https://crimelibrary.org/serial_killers/weird/heidnik/. https://law.justia.com/cases/pennsylvania/supreme-court/1991/526-pa-458-1.html. Interview with Gary Heidnik Clip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhBLYDHRCSQ (starts at 13:30) https://www.aetv.com/articles/gary-heidnik. Monster Preacher Documentary: Oxygen True Crime https://www.truecrimeedition.com/post/gary-heidnik. https://theywillkillyou.com/profile/gary-m-heidnik. https://thecinemaholic.com/gary-heidnik-survivors/. TV Show: The Killer Next Door – Gary Heidnik: House of Horrors https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milgram_experiment. Photo Credits: https://allthatsinteresting.com/gary-heidnik. https://crimelibrary.org/serial_killers/weird/heidnik/. https://www.truecrimeedition.com/post/gary-heidnik. https://theywillkillyou.com/profile/gary-m-heidnik. https://murderpedia.org/male.H/h1/heidnik-gary-photos.htm. https://discover.hubpages.com/politics/Serial-Killer-Gary-Heidnik-Inspiration-for-Movie-Silence-of-the-Lambs. https://medium.com/@lisariggio1994/gary-heidnik-and-the-6-women-in-the-cellar-23d87e450596. https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/gary-heidnik-attorney-house-of-horrors-buffalo-bill-true-crime-doc. Produced by: Raymond Malley
Episode 32- Shot in the Dark: The Survival Story of Sharon Komlos
A single headlight appeared in Sharon Komlos's rearview mirror late one night. Assuming the driver wanted to get around her, she slowed down and pulled over. Seconds later, a bullet tore through her head.You won't believe what happened next.Bleeding and terrified, Sharon found herself trapped in a nightmare of kidnapping, assault, and unimaginable cruelty. And when a man appeared who seemed like he might be her chance at rescue, she quickly learned that not everyone who offers help has good intentions.This week we cover Sharon's incredible story of survival, the determination that kept her alive, and the escape that turned the tables on the man who thought he'd taken everything from her.References: Myotron Infomercial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMG0h4rVQ9o. TV Series: I Survived - Season 3 Episode 6 https://www.deseret.com/1990/5/1/18859623/woman-who-was-blinded-in-attack-hasn-t-lost-her-sense-of-humor/. https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1990/04/26/victim-of-a-brutal-rape-working-to-help-others/. https://www.casemine.com/judgement/us/591490d0add7b0493457d1cb. Picture Credit: Young Sharon - Myotron Infomercial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMG0h4rVQ9o. Sharon’s Book Thomas Rossi - https://rain-street.org/Thomas-Rossi-7p1X12. Produced by: Raymond Malley
Episode 31- Dr. Whitney Temple
For years, Whitney Temple lived in a relationship that looked normal from the outside, but behind closed doors, she endured relentless abuse.In this episode of The Vibes Were Off, Kathryn and Meg explore Whitney's powerful survival story. We discuss how emotional, mental and physical abuse can slowly chip away at a person's confidence, the warning signs that are often overlooked, and the lasting impact of living under constant control and intimidation.Whitney's story is one of resilience, courage, and ultimately reclaiming her life. Through her own experiences, she sheds light on a form of abuse that doesn't always leave visible scars but can be just as devastating.Join us as we unpack the red flags, the turning points, and the strength it took for Whitney to break free and tell her story. If you've ever wondered how someone becomes trapped in an emotionally abusive relationship—or how they find the courage to leave—this is an episode you won't want to miss.Because sometimes the most dangerous wounds are the ones no one can see... and the vibes were off from the very beginning.Resources:https://www.amundsonfuneralhome.com/obituaries/whitney-templehttps://www.valleynewslive.com/2025/01/30/plea-agreement-man-accused-abusing-wife-with-cancer/?outputType/Explore with us - YouTube Channel
Episode 30- 27 Hours Missing, the Survival Story of Teri Jendusa-Nicolai
Imagine climbing into your car for a normal custody exchange and realizing way too late that you’ve just walked into a trap. That’s exactly what happened to Teri Jendusa-Nicolai on January 31st, 2004. After years of trying to escape her abusive ex-husband, Teri was brutally attacked, taped up, and locked inside a plastic storage bin packed with snow in the back of a pickup truck.For the next 26 hours, Teri fought to survive freezing temperatures, devastating injuries, and the terrifying reality that nobody knew where she was. Somehow, against every possible odd, she stayed alive. In this episode, we’re talking about one of the most shocking survival stories we’ve ever covered — and the unbelievable strength it took for Teri to make it home.Resources: TV Series: I Survived: Season 3 Episode 1 TV Series: Three Days to Live: Season 1 Episode 1 https://abcnews.com/2020/story?id=124252&page=1. https://wgntv.com/news/cover-story/beaten-woman-left-to-die-in-garbage-can-survives/. https://www.womansday.com/relationships/dating-marriage/a58621/teri-jendusa-nicolai-domestic-violence-survivor/.
Episode 29- Jan Broberg Part 2
In Part 2, we dive deeper into the horrifying true story of Jan Broberg and the second kidnapping that shattered what little normalcy she had left. Just when the Broberg family thought the nightmare was over, Robert “B” Berchtold manipulated his way back into their lives — using lies, guilt, religion, and psychological control to pull Jan away from everyone who was trying to protect her.We talk about how the second abduction happened, the disturbing emotional hold B had over the entire family, and the impossible position Jan was put in as a young girl trying to survive something she couldn’t fully understand. Through Jan’s own book and reflections later in life, we explore how deeply the trauma followed her long after the kidnappings ended — and how grooming can completely distort reality for victims and the people around them.The episode also covers the unraveling of B’s life after the truth finally surfaced, including the collapse of his relationships, the lasting damage left behind, and his eventual death. This is the heartbreaking conclusion to one of the most unbelievable kidnapping cases we’ve ever covered — and a story that still leaves people asking how something like this could happen in plain sight.Resources:A Friend of the family - PeacockAbducted in plain sighthttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Broberghttps://janbrobergfoundation.org/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/jan-broberg-kidnapping-friend-of-family-peacock-b2197093.htmlThe Hidden Third Podcast
Episode 28- Jan Broberg: Part 1
Jan Broberg: Part 1Okay, this story is one of those where you keep asking yourself, how did no one stop this?In Part 1, we’re getting into the first abduction of Jan Broberg — and it starts way more normal than you’d expect. A family friend, someone everyone trusted, someone who slowly became part of their everyday life. Nothing about it feels off at first… until it really, really is.We’re going to walk through how this even happened — how manipulation, grooming, and control can happen right in front of people without them realizing it. And honestly, the deeper you get into it, the more frustrating and unbelievable it becomes.Like… how do you take a child and convince everyone around you that it’s okay?This is just the beginning — and it only gets worse from hereResources:A Friend of the family - PeacockAbducted in plain sighthttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Broberg
Episode 27- Shark Infested Waters: The Survival Story of Deb Scaling and Brad Cavanaugh
In this episode, we dive into the terrifying true story of the Trashman sailboat sinking, where a group of friends set out on what was supposed to be an unforgettable journey—only to find themselves stranded in the open ocean after disaster strikes. Left without supplies, far from land, and exposed to the elements, they are forced into a desperate fight for survival.As the days pass, exhaustion, dehydration, and fear begin to take hold, especially as sharks start circling beneath them. But at the heart of this story are the survivors—those who managed to endure the unimaginable, relying on instinct, resilience, and sheer willpower to stay alive.This episode explores what they went through in those harrowing days at sea, the impossible choices they faced, and how some of them ultimately made it out alive to tell their story.Resources:I Survived TV Series: Season 5 Episode 8 I Shouldn’t Be Alive TV Series: Season 1 Episode 1 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Scaling_Kiley. https://www.bostonmagazine.com/news/lost-at-sea/. Albatross: The True Story of a Woman's Survival at Sea (1994) by Deborah Scaling Kiley https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-updates/incidents/the-sharks-got-him-then-killed-the-others-shipwreck-survivor-recounts-five-days-stranded-at-sea/news-story/c60f679af78d537be9e1e09114c26a92. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/231143696/meg-mooney. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/231183281/john_p-lippoth. Brad Cavanaugh Portrait by Matt Kalinowski Discovery Channel I Shouldn't Be Alive TV Series and Capsized: Blood in the Water Movie (picture credit) https://www.deeperblue.com/fascinating-lesser-known-shark-facts/.
Episode 26- Susan Walters
What starts as a troubled relationship slowly unravels into something much darker. In this episode, we’re diving into the case of Susan Walters. A story filled with tension, control, and a truth that didn’t come out until it was too late. On the outside, things may have looked normal… but behind closed doors, something wasn’t right.As investigators begin to piece together what really happened, the story takes turns you don’t see coming. Was this a case of self-defense… or something more calculated?Join us as we break down the timeline, the key moments, and the questions that still linger. Because sometimes, the most chilling part of a story… is what was hiding in plain sight.Resources: True Crime Central YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8oZ6moqq0I I Survived: Season 5 Episode 2 How The Beep Did I Marry: Season 2 Episode 14 https://www.oregonlive.com/breakingnews/2008/03/woman_who_strangles_attacker_w.html. https://allthatsinteresting.com/susan-kuhnhausen. National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/. KOIN 6 News YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvlnkuFzVQs. Anderson Live YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vy74imo9-Mo.
Episode 25- The Luby's Massacre
What started as a normal lunch at Luby’s Cafeteria in Killeen, Texas turned into one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history. In a matter of minutes, a man crashed his truck through the front window and opened fire—leaving 23 people dead and a community forever changed.In this episode, we dive into the chaos, the heartbreaking losses, and the stories of survival and bravery that came out of that day… a moment where everything felt normal—until it wasn’t.Resources:https://web.archive.org/web/20170104024146/https://people.com/archive/a-texas-massacre-vol-36-no-17/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luby%27s_shooting#Perpetratorhttps://www.dallasobserver.com/news/30-years-ago-george-hennard-shot-and-killed-dozens-at-a-lubys-in-killeen-the-attack-changed-texas-forever-13127539/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-05-28-mn-7034-story.html#:~:text=L.A.%20Times%20Archives,the%20indigent%2C%20who%20pay%20$70.
Episode 24- Slender Man Stabbing
What started as an innocent obsession with an internet legend turned into something unthinkable. In this episode, we dive into the chilling case of the Slenderman stabbing—where two young girls lured their friend into the woods and committed a brutal attack, all to impress a fictional character.How did a creepy online myth spiral into real-life violence? And what does this case reveal about the blurred line between fantasy and reality?This one is as disturbing as it is unforgettable… and the vibes were definitely off.Resources: Beware the Slenderman Documentary (2016), Director Irene Taylor Slender Man Stabbing: The Untold Story (2019), Director James Buddy Day ABC News 20/20: The Wicked (2019) CourtTV - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuuWXz2pcUo https://people.com/where-is-slender-man-stabbing-survivor-payton-leutner-now-11855670. https://abc7chicago.com/post/morgan-geyser-now-wisconsin-judge-sends-suspect-slender-man-stabbing-payton-leutner-back-mental-health-institution/18309768/. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK541211/. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/schizophrenia. 911 call - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_duCuxMx80 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slender_Man_stabbing. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creepypasta.
Episode 23- Mary and Beth Stauffer
This episode starts with something that feels almost impossible.A woman… being watched for years… without ever knowing it.We’re talking about Mary Stauffer and her 8-year-old daughter Beth—taken in broad daylight by someone who had been obsessing over Mary since he was her student.No warning. No chance to prepare. Just gone.And what follows is 53 days trapped in a space so small, so controlled, it’s hard to even picture.But this isn’t just a story about captivity.It’s about control. Obsession. And the terrifying reality of what happens when someone decides they’re not going to let you go.The tension in this case just keeps building—moment after moment where things could have gone very differently… and a child who had to endure far more than anyone ever should.And somehow, through all of it… Mary never stops being a mother. Keeping Beth calm. Keeping her alive. Keeping hope where there really shouldn’t have been any.This one will get under your skin.Resources: https://www.twincities.com/2019/10/03/mary-stauffer-kidnapping-ming-sen-shiue-murder-mn-roseville/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ming_Sen_Shiue#:~:text=From%201965%20to%201966%2C%20Shiue,Shiue%20lived%20at%201960%20N.Stalking Mary by Eileen Bridgeman BiernatAbducted: The Mary Stauffer Story - A lifetime Movie
Episode 22- Alison Botha
Today’s episode… it’s a heavy one—but it’s also one of the most unbelievable survival stories you’ll ever hear.We’re talking about Alison Botha, a woman who went through something so brutal, most people wouldn’t even survive minutes of it… and somehow, she did.In 1994, Alison was just going about her normal night, heading home, when she was abducted by two men. What happened next is honestly hard to even put into words. She was attacked, left with catastrophic injuries, and abandoned in a remote area—basically left for dead.But here’s the part that will absolutely stay with you…Alison didn’t die.She woke up. Alone. Severely injured. And somehow—through pure instinct and determination—she got up, found the road, and flagged someone down for help. She literally saved her own life.And what’s even more incredible is what she did after surviving.Instead of letting that night define her, Alison chose to speak out. She turned her story into something powerful—something that inspires people all over the world.So in this episode, we’re going to walk through what happened to Alison, how she survived something almost impossible, and how she turned that trauma into strength.Just a quick warning—this story is intense. But it’s also one of the most powerful examples of resilience you’ll ever hear.Resources: Alison - directed by Uga Carlini Alison: I have a life by Alison Bothahttps://medium.com/@mckenna.arbuckle/the-girl-who-played-dead-the-survival-of-alison-botha-1f75a5f0841bhttps://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-02-27-portrait-of-psychopath-serial-rapist-frans-du-toit/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CHe%20said%20he%20tried%20to,not%20accept%20him%2C%20he%20said.
Episode 21- Cassidy Stay
In this episode, we tell the incredible story of Cassidy Stay, a teenager who survived a horrific family massacre in Texas. After a gunman murdered most of her family in their home, Cassidy was shot and left for dead—but miraculously survived. Despite unimaginable loss, she showed extraordinary courage, helping police identify the killer and later inspiring millions with her strength and resilience. This episode explores the tragedy, the investigation, and how Cassidy turned unimaginable trauma into a story of survival and hope.Resources:https://www.fox26houston.com/news/harris-county-constable-relieves-horrific-2014-mass-murder. https://6abc.com/post/lone-survivor-of-texas-family-shooting-out-of-the-hospital/178388/. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2014_Harris_County_shooting. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/man-who-killed-6-members-ex-wife-s-family-gets-n1065366. https://abc7chicago.com/post/woman-who-played-dead-while-family-was-killed-takes-the-stand/5498466/. https://www.newsbreak.com/law-crime-520571/4307335466082-discredit-on-the-judiciary-texas-judge-publicly-reprimanded-for-cloak-and-dagger-behavior-against-da-and-bias-toward-death-penalty-defendant-who-slaughtered-family. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2915451/Brave-Stay-family-reveal-incredible-friendship-parents-alleged-killer-sole-surviving-granddaughter-Cassidy-helped-therapy-dog.html. https://theywillkillyou.com/profile/ronald-lee-haskell-jr. https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/death_row/dr_info/haskellronald.html. https://abc7chicago.com/post/couple-speaks-out-about-murders-of-son-daughter-in-law-4-grandkids/176868/.
Episode 20- Kathy Page
Have you ever driven past a billboard that caught your eye or made you think? In todays episode, a listener request, Meg takes us through the incredibly frustrating case of Kathy Page. Who killed Kathy and why didn't the police investigate it? Will her family ever get justice? Listen and watch to find out!Resources: https://kfdm.com/news/local/unsolved-setx-vidor-police-chief-says-its-time-for-closure-in-kathy-page-homicide. https://mysterydelver.com/page-full-of-tears/. https://orangeleader.com/2022/08/03/nationwide-true-crime-podcast-focuses-on-31-year-old-orange-county-cold-case-killinf/. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5335085/Man-helped-inspire-Three-Billboards-says-hes-innocent.html. https://unsolvedmysteries.fandom.com/wiki/Kathy_Page. https://www.truecrimeedition.com/post/kathy-page. https://unsolved.com/gallery/kathy-page/.
Episode 19- Cynthia Vigil
In 1999, Cynthia Vigil did the impossible: she escaped the Toy Box, a high-tech torture chamber operated by David Parker Ray. After three days of unimaginable horror, Cynthia seized a moment of distraction, fought off her captor with an ice pick, and fled into the New Mexico desert wearing nothing but a padlocked metal collar.This episode explores her harrowing abduction, her heart-pounding escape, and how her bravery ended the decades-long reign of one of America’s most sadistic serial killers. We detail the massive FBI investigation her survival triggered and her enduring legacy as an advocate for the vulnerable.Resources:https://thebeaconfhhs.org/1761/beacon-behind-bars/beacon-behind-bars-the-toy-box-killer/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Parker_Rayhttps://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/march-22/evidence-of-murder-is-uncovered-in-new-mexicohttps://www.cynthia-vigil.com/I survived a serial killer on A&Ehttps://www.lcsun-news.com/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1999/06/24/daughter-says-not-guilty-to-sex-torture-charges/
Episode 18- Jeanne des Anges and the possessed nuns of Loudun
In this episode we discuss a 15th century tale full of demons, possessions, political espionage and exorcisms. Resources:Jeanne des Anges. (1644). Autobiography. Jeanne des Anges. (n.d.). Relation de la possession des Ursulines de Loudun. Jean-Joseph Surin. (c. 1655). Science expérimentale des choses de l'autre vie. Procès d’Urbain Grandier. (1634). Trial records, Loudun, France. de Certeau, Michel. (2000). The possession at Loudun (M. B. Smith, Trans.). University of Chicago Press. (Original work published 1970) Huxley, Aldous. (1952). The devils of Loudun. Harper & Brothers. Levack, Brian. (2006). The witch-hunt in early modern Europe (3rd ed.). Pearson Longman. Clark, Stuart. (1997). Thinking with demons: The idea of witchcraft in early modern Europe. Oxford University Press. Roper, Lyndal. (1994). Oedipus and the devil: Witchcraft, sexuality and religion in early modern Europe. Routledge. Bergin, J. (1991). The rise of Richelieu. Yale University Press. Mousnier, R. (1979). The institutions of France under the absolute monarchy, 1598–1789 (B. Pearce, Trans.). University of Chicago Press. Whiting, J. (1961). The devils. Faber & Faber.
Episode 17- Celebrity Kidnappings
During this episode we discuss some of the high value celebrity kidnappings of the last century. We discuss Frank Sinatra Jr. and the team who kidnapped him to gain start up money for a new business venture. The abduction of Juan and Jorge Born including the most ransom demand paid up until that point. Alfred Heineken and his driver, who were kidnapped for three weeks before being rescued after the family paid the kidnappers. Kevyn Wynn, the daughter of Steve Wynn, a Las Vegas legend, who was recovered after only a few hours. At the end of this podcast we discuss the current kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie and explore theories of where she could be and who might have taken her. Resources: https://www.fbi.gov/history/famous-cases/frank-sinatra-jr-kidnappinghttps://themobmuseum.org/blog/fifty-one-years-later-frank-sinatra-jr-s-kidnapping-still-raises-questions/https://livinglifeinanopensuitcase.wordpress.com/2015/11/04/the-born-legacy-and-argentinas-kidnapping-crisis-of-the-1970s/https://www.nytimes.com/1975/06/21/archives/argentine-ransom-is-put-at-60million.htmlhttps://www.mensjournal.com/news/savannah-guthrie-mother-ransom-history-celebrity-kidnappings-paid-timeline
Episode 16- Grizzly Bear Attacks
In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of grizzly bear behavior and human/bear encounters, looking at both what the science says and what has actually happened in real-life cases.We begin with an overview of grizzly bears, including their natural habits, habitat, and how interactions with people typically unfold. According to wildlife experts, grizzly attacks are rare but serious, and most incidents happen when bears are startled, defending cubs, or when humans unintentionally provoke them by getting too close or leaving out food sources. Using real stories like Brent, Timothy Henderson, and the Louie & Wade story, we weave in narratives of individuals who survived or were involved in bear attacks, highlighting both the terrifying unpredictability and the nuanced circumstances that can lead to conflict.Throughout the episode, we balance statistics with stories, showing that while the likelihood of encountering a grizzly is low compared to overall backcountry risks, the stakes when it does happen are undeniably high. We touch on when attacks are most likely to occur — for example during food-scarce seasons or in areas with high human traffic — and how awareness, preparedness, and respect for wildlife behavior can make all the difference.Resources:https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Mammals/Grizzly-Bear. https://bearvault.com/blogs/articles/bear-attack-statistics. https://www.eagleeyeadventures.com/blog/peak-grizzly-bear-attack-season-when-to-be-extra-cautious. Season 3 Episode 5 – Brent Case Season 3 Episode 7 – Timothy Henderson Season 10 Episode 5 – Louie & Wade https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/he-s-eating-my-brains-i-can-feel-it-recalls-bear-attack-survivor-1.722716. https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2007/apr/14/mauled-man-wants-bear-spared/. https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/473947810/.
Episode 15- Charla Nash
In this episode, we recount the harrowing 2009 attack on Charla Nash by Travis, a 200-pound chimpanzee raised as a human pet. We break down the terrifying sequence of events in Stamford, CT and the medical miracles that followed, including Charla’s historic full-face transplant. Finally, we look at how this tragedy exposed the dangers of the exotic pet trade and pushed for critical legislative changes like the Captive Primate Safety Act.Resources:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travis_(chimpanzee)https://www.nbcwashington.com/local/gruesome-details-revealed-from-chimp-attack/1865336/https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/nation-world/national/article13172279.htmlHBO’s Chimp Crazy: Episodes 2 & 4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1pdvV_gT6IProduced by: Raymond Malley
Episode 14- The McDonald's Massacre of 1984
In this episode of The Vibes Were Off, we delve into the tragic events of the 1984 San Ysidro McDonald's massacre, one of the deadliest mass shootings in American history. We explore the background of the perpetrator and the harrowing timeline of the attack that forever changed the community and law enforcement protocols. Join us as we honor the victims and discuss the lasting impact this senseless act of violence left on the nation.Resources:77 Minutes Documentary by Charlie Minn https://www.businessinsider.com/deadliest-mass-shootings-in-us-history-2017-10. https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2245&dat=19900718&id=-XozAAAAIBAJ&pg=6693,1877855. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Ysidro_McDonald%27s_massacre. https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/july-18/twenty-one-people-are-shot-to-death-at-mcdonalds.
Episode 13 Heaven's Gate Pt. 2
Following the death of co-founder Bonnie Nettles, Marshall Applewhite Jr. had to come up with a new theology from physical space travel to the belief that they must "shed their human vehicles" through suicide to ascend. The group maintained extreme control over members through check partners, enforced androgyny—including surgical castrations—and intense indoctrination involving sci-fi media like Star Trek. In March 1997, believing a spacecraft was trailing the Hale-Bopp comet, 39 members committed ritual suicide in a California mansion wearing matching uniforms and Nike sneakers. Resources: https://time.com/archive/6730591/imprisoned-by-his-own-passions-marshall-herff-applewhite/Heaven’s Gate: The Cult of Cults on HBOhttps://facilitatingu.com/2014/07/20th-anniversary-of-my-heavens-gate-departure/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heaven%27s_Gate_(religious_group)https://www.heavensgate.com/https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/march-26/heavens-gate-cult-members-found-dead
Episode 12- Heaven's Gate Pt. 1
Founded in the early 1970s by Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles, the group initially known as "The Two" began by traveling across the United States to recruit followers through a message that blended Christian theology with science fiction. They convinced early converts that they were extraterrestrial beings in human bodies who could help others achieve a physical transformation to reach the Next Level of existence via a spacecraft. By 1975, the cult gained national notoriety after a recruitment meeting in Oregon led to the sudden disappearance of twenty people, marking the beginning of their increasingly reclusive and disciplined communal lifestyle.Resources: https://time.com/archive/6730591/imprisoned-by-his-own-passions-marshall-herff-applewhite/Heaven’s Gate: The Cult of Cults on HBOhttps://facilitatingu.com/2014/07/20th-anniversary-of-my-heavens-gate-departure/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heaven%27s_Gate_(religious_group)https://www.heavensgate.com/https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/march-26/heavens-gate-cult-members-found-dead
Episode 11- The American Hostages in Colombia
In February 2003, Marc Gonsalves, Tom Howes, and Keith Stansell—three American defense contractors—were captured by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) after their surveillance plane crashed in the jungle. The men endured more than five years of brutal captivity, often held in chains and forced to march through dense terrain to avoid detection by authorities. They were finally freed in July 2008 during Operation Jaque, a daring and bloodless rescue mission by the Colombian military that involved posing as a humanitarian group to trick the FARC rebels.Resources: Out of Captivity: Surviving 1,967 Days in the Colombian Jungle by Marc Gonsalves, Thomas Howes, and Keith Stansell with Gary Brozek I Survived Season 10 Episode 1
Episode 10- Judy Malinowski
Judy Malinowski was a devoted mother whose life was tragically redefined after she was doused in gasoline and set on fire by her ex-boyfriend in 2015. Despite suffering catastrophic injuries, she spent her final two years undergoing dozens of surgeries and providing unprecedented video testimony from her hospital bed to ensure her attacker faced justice. Her enduring mission culminated in the passage of "Judy’s Law" in Ohio, which mandates tougher prison sentences for attackers who use accelerants to disfigure their victims.Resources: Judysfoundation.orghttps://people.com/mom-recounts-judy-malinowski-last-words-daughters-exclusive-7505209#:~:text=Malinowski%20showed%20both%20her%20young,Testimony%20Led%20to%20Ex's%20Convictionhttps://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/judy-malinowskis-testimony-unsealed-her-killer-gets-life-prison/530-043672f7-c2e8-41c4-ad4d-ef31ad276892https://www.egan-ryan.com/obituary/Judith-Malinowski
Episode 9- Fabienne Witherspoon & Krystal Surles
In 1992, Fabienne Witherspoon became one of the few people to survive an encounter with Tommy Lynn Sells by heroically fighting him off with a heavy ceramic duck after he attacked her in her home. "Quack, Quack, B*tch"Years later, ten-year-old Krystal Surles displayed equal courage by surviving a slit throat and walking nearly a quarter-mile to find help after Sells murdered her friend. Together, these two women provided the critical testimony and composite sketches that finally ended Sells' cross-country killing spree and secured his conviction.Resources:Through the Window – Diane Fanning Most Evil Season 1 Episode 2 I Survived a Serial Killer Season 1 Episode 5 48 Hour Interview – Krystal’s Courage ABC News Mini-Documentary – Tommy Lynn Sells – The Mind of a Psychopath https://abcnews.go.com/US/serial-killer-survivor-speaks-alive/story?id=81081689 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommy_Lynn_Sells
Episode 8- Cassidy Poarch
In June 2024, Cassidy Poarch survived a harrowing incident in Murray County, Georgia, after being held captive and assaulted by Nick Cargain. After being beaten and threatened with drowning, she managed to escape and hide inside a cardboard box on a neighbor's porch while barefoot and bleeding. Her courage in escaping and providing evidence led to Cargain's conviction and a sentence of life in prison plus 25 years.Resources:https://newschannel9.com/news/local/murray-county-man-sentenced-for-beating-girlfriend-trying-to-abduct-her-in-front-of-childBodycam footage by MCSO Deputy - EWU Bodycam on YouTubeProduced by: Raymond Malley
Episode 7- Mary Vincent
Join us today as we discuss the incredible survivor story of Mary Vincent. She is an American artist and victims’ advocate who survived a horrific 1978 attack in which her forearms were severed by a man who had offered her a ride while she was hitchhiking as a teenager. Left for dead, she packed her wounds to slow the bleeding, climbed out of a ravine, walked miles to find help, and later helped identify and prosecute her attacker, inspiring victims’ rights reforms. In her adult life she has focused on her art, creating custom prosthetics, and supporting other survivors through advocacy and speaking.Resources:https://blurredbylines.com/articles/mary-vincent-lawrence-singleton-attack-survival/https://archive.vcstar.com/news/crime-survivor-speaks-ep-371969784-350886431.html/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Vincent_(artist)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lawrence_SingletonI Survived Season 4 Episode 1
Episode 6- Rita Kemper
Join us as we tell the harrowing survival tale of Rita Kemper. Rita is the only known survivor of Baltimore's own cannibal killer. Dive into gruesome details and examine how so many law enforcement agencies became attached to this small section of Maryland. Resources:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_MethenyBaltimore SunInvestigation DiscoveryCBS News
Episode 5- Terry Caffey
This podcast episode explores the profound story of a man who survived a violent home invasion that tragically claimed the lives of his family members. It delves into the investigation surrounding the attack and the shocking discovery of those responsible for the crime. Ultimately, the narrative focuses on his emotional and spiritual journey toward healing and his difficult choice to offer forgiveness in the wake of unimaginable loss.Resources - I Survived Season 4 Episode 2 Snapped: Killer Couples Season 13 Episode 6 Killer Women with Piers Morgan Season 1 Episode 1 Texas Monthly Article, Flesh and Blood by Pamela Colloff Terror by Night by Terry Caffey https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caffey_family_murders
Episode 4- Ashley Reeves
In 2006, 17-year-old Ashley Reeves went missing from her home in Millstadt, Illinois, sparking a desperate search that led investigators to a chilling discovery. This episode covers her incredible physical recovery and the legal battle to bring her attacker to justice. It is a profound story of resilience and hope in the face of unimaginable trauma.Resources:https://www.oxygen.com/true-crime-buzz/where-is-sam-shelton-who-tried-to-kill-ashley-reeves-nowhttps://www.stlpr.org/other/2007-05-08/former-teacher-accused-of-attempted-murder-tries-to-kill-himselfhttps://www.ksdk.com/article/news/crime/former-freeburg-teacher-sam-shelton-released-on-parole/63-f8205723-76f0-4b8c-8512-272d81c6ed5fhttps://people.com/teacher-who-choked-17-year-old-student-left-her-woods-after-believing-she-was-dead-is-released-8639074https://www.bnd.com/news/local/article131231334.htmlLifetime’s “Left For Dead” made for TV movie
Episode 3- Juliane Koepcke
This week, we dive into the unbelievable true story of Juliane Koepcke, the sole survivor of the Lanza Flight 508 plane crash in the Amazon rainforest in 1971. Hear how this 17-year-old girl survived a 10,000-foot fall, faced a 9-day trek through the jungle with a broken collarbone and other injuries, and used her knowledge of the wilderness to find her way back to civilization. You won’t believe the full story of her survival!Resources:When I fell from the sky: The true story of one woman's miraculous survival by Juliane Koepckehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juliane_Koepcke
Episode 2- Regan Martin
Welcome back for Part 2 of the killing cousins saga, featuring our Survivor Regan Martin!Regan was just 14 years old hitchhiking with her friend when they were picked up by 2 monsters. Find out how she survives with the help of her friend Lynn, and ensures these serial killers face justice. Also follow along through the many, many trials and life after, including what life was like in prison. Thanks for listening! Produced by: Raymond Malley References:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Alan_Gorehttps://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/2012/04/09/david-alan-gore-killer-with/7265797007/http://www.clarkprosecutor.org/html/death/US/gore1290.htmhttps://archive.tcpalm.com/news/first-murder-in-1980s-led-killing-cousins-gore-and-waterfield-on-crime-spree-through-indian-river--e-345577102.htmlThe Serial Killer Whisperer by Pete EarleyMurder Phone Podcast by Tony Ciagliahttps://maamodt.asp.radford.edu/Psyc%20405/serial%20killers/Waterfield,%20Fred.pdfhttps://www.gainesville.com/story/news/2013/09/02/family-killing-cousin-tries-to/31852381007/NBC News
Episode 1- Angela Hommell
Welcome to our first episode! Angela Hommell was only 20 years old when she immigrated to Vero Beach, Florida from Germany. Not long after her arrival she would become a victim of the “Killing Cousins”. In this episode you will hear Angela’s incredible survival story. You will also learn about some of the first known victims of the sadistic serial killers David Alan Gore and Fred Waterfield. Produced by: Raymond Malley References:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Alan_Gorehttps://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/2012/04/09/david-alan-gore-killer-with/7265797007/http://www.clarkprosecutor.org/html/death/US/gore1290.htmhttps://archive.tcpalm.com/news/first-murder-in-1980s-led-killing-cousins-gore-and-waterfield-on-crime-spree-through-indian-river--e-345577102.htmlThe Serial Killer Whisperer by Pete EarleyMurder Phone Podcast by Tony Ciagliahttps://maamodt.asp.radford.edu/Psyc%20405/serial%20killers/Waterfield,%20Fred.pdfhttps://www.gainesville.com/story/news/2013/09/02/family-killing-cousin-tries-to/31852381007/NBC News
Episode 0- Preview
Welcome to The Vibes Were Off! A True Crime Podcast featuring survivors! First episode releases January 6. 2026!