Episodes

  • From Protection to Peril, the Sabrina Zunich Case- Ep. 100

    From Protection to Peril, the Sabrina Zunich Case- Ep. 100
    Dec 24 2025
    In this harrowing milestone episode, Charity unpacks one of the most shocking and heartbreaking cases to ever come through the foster care system—the murder of Lisa Knoefel, a dedicated social worker and loving mother, at the hands of the teen she brought into her home to protect. What began as an act of compassion—taking in 16-year-old Sabrina Zunich, a girl with a traumatic past and severe mental health struggles—quickly twisted into something unimaginable. Grooming. Manipulation. A secret relationship. And a murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by the one person Lisa should have been able to trust: her husband, Kevin Knoefel. Charity walks through Sabrina’s turbulent childhood, the psychological vulnerabilities that made her a target, the disturbing evolution of her relationship with Kevin, and the brutal 178-stab murder that shook Willoughby Hills, Ohio. This episode also highlights systemic failures in foster care, the red flags that were missed, and how a teenager in crisis was weaponized by a manipulative adult to destroy the very family trying to help her. Episode Highlights Lisa Knoefel’s passion for protecting children—and how it tragically cost her lifeSabrina’s childhood trauma: addiction, instability, neglect, and mental health strugglesThe foster care statistics behind placement instability and teen vulnerabilityHow Sabrina initially thrived in the Knoefel home before the dynamic shiftedEarly red flags: accusations of favoritism, emotional distancing, and inappropriate closeness with KevinThe grooming trajectory: massages, sexual “jokes,” escalating boundaries, and Kevin planning a future with SabrinaKevin’s manipulation: coercing Sabrina with threats of suicide, love-bombing, and promises of a life togetherThe life insurance motive—$785,000—and the plan to stage a burglaryThe chilling details of the murder: 178 stab wounds and a bent knifeMegan’s courageous 911 call and her attempt to stop the attackKevin’s suspicious behavior after the murder—calm demeanor, insurance paperwork, visiting Sabrina in jailSabrina’s eventual cooperation with police and the unraveling of the conspiracyTrial outcomes: Kevin Knoefel — Life in prison + 12 yearsSabrina Zunich — Life with parole eligibility in 30 years The deep failures in foster care oversight and ignored warning signsWhere the surviving daughters and key figures are nowHow a system meant to save Sabrina instead placed her in the worst possible home Reflection Lisa Knoefel spent her life protecting children. She opened her home to a teenager who desperately needed safety. And she was betrayed by the system she trusted and the man she loved. This case is a devastating reminder: When red flags are ignored, vulnerable people pay the highest price. Resources & References Daughter Gets Life in Foster Mom's Stabbing Death Oxygen: Sabrina Zunich State of Ohio Vs. Kevin Knoefel $6.2 Million Awarded in Lisa Knoefel Murder Case What You Need To Know About The Sabrina Zunich Case Ahead Of The Premiere Of 'Snapped: Behind Bars The Tragic Murder of Lisa Knoefel Relationship Details Revealed Between Husband, Foster Daughter Lisa Knoefel Murder: How Did She Die? Who Killed Her? Graphic Details of Woman’s Murder Come Out in Husband’s Trial Man Manipulated Teenage Foster Daughter to Fatally Stab His Wife Worth More Dead Than Alive Sabrina Zunich Teen Killer Murders Foster Mother 'I Was Not Mentally There,' Woman Who Murdered Foster Mom at Foster Dad's Request Says in Prison Interview 40 Foster Children Statistics & Facts: 2025 Data U.S. Foster Care Statistics 2025 What Impacts Placement Stability? The Impact of Placement Stability on Behavioral Well-Being for Children in Foster Care Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more. https://www.escapepod.live Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts? General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live On Social Media  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
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    48 mins
  • Desperate for Motherhood: Pregnancy Abductions Ep. 99

    Desperate for Motherhood: Pregnancy Abductions Ep. 99
    Dec 17 2025
    In this chilling and emotionally heavy episode, Charity dives into the rare but deeply disturbing world of pregnancy abductions, fabricated pregnancies, and pregnancy denial. Sparked by a previous conversation with guest Vallen Webb, this episode examines how the intense psychological pull toward motherhood can lead to deception, violence, and—tragically—murder. With fewer than 40 documented fetal abduction cases worldwide, these crimes are rare, but their brutality is staggering. Charity breaks down the infamous cases of Lisa Montgomery and Darci Pierce—women who faked pregnancies and ultimately murdered to steal infants—as well as the heartbreaking case of Melissa “Prom Mom” Drexler, whose concealed pregnancy resulted in newborn death. We explore the psychology behind these crimes, what drives women into delusion or desperation, and how trauma, identity, fantasy, and social pressure can merge into catastrophic outcomes. While these cases are extreme, understanding them helps us better identify the red flags and protect vulnerable women and children. This is a difficult episode—but an important one. Episode Highlights The primal, distorted drive for motherhood and the psychological fracture points that can trigger extreme behaviorHow fabricated pregnancies escalate into dangerous obsessionsA breakdown of one of the most notorious fetal abduction cases: Lisa Montgomery & the murder of Bobbie Jo Stinnett (2004) The 1987 case of Darci Pierce, who murdered Cindy Ray after months of faking a pregnancyThe devastating “Prom Mom” case involving Melissa Drexler and neonaticideWhy these crimes happen: insights from forensic psychologyHow trauma, infertility, relationship instability, and identity wounds can fuel delusional pregnancy narrativesWhy these crimes are so rare—and what early warning signs may look likeThe societal expectations of womanhood and motherhood that can intensify psychological pressureA reminder that while understanding motivations isn’t excusing them, it can inform preventionWhy curiosity can sometimes take you down roads you wish you never sawA call for awareness, empathy, and proactive intervention for women in psychological distress If You or Someone You Know Needs Help National Domestic Violence Hotline — 1-800-799-SAFE • Text START to 88788 • If someone is hiding a pregnancy, showing obsessive pregnancy behavior, or expressing desperation about motherhood, seek help immediately—these situations can escalate quickly. Resources & References The Fetal Snatcher: Desperate to Be a Mom Murder of Bobbie Jo Stinnett Executions Scheduled for Two Federal Inmates Convicted of Heinous Murders Statement From the Family of Bobbie Jo Stinnett Kansan Lisa Montgomery Executed for Killing a Pregnant Woman in 2004 and Stealing Baby Court Documents in Stinnett Case Lisa Montgomery: Looking for Answers in the Life of a Killer 'Prom Mom' Released from Prison 'Prom Mom' Case Recalled After Accusations Neptune Teen Killed Her Newborn New Jersey Mom Accepts Plea Agreement "Desperate for a Child: On a Muggy Summer Day, Darci Pierce Decided She Would Kill to Have a Baby" Woman Found Guilty of Killing Pregnant Woman for Her Baby Pregnant Woman Was Alive When Cut A Teenaged Mother Gives Birth and Murders Her Baby at the Prom Executions Scheduled for Two Federal Inmates Convicted of Heinous Murders A Staged Pregnancy | Most Evil S3 E7 | discovery+ Desperate for a Child : On a Muggy Summer Day, Darci Pierce Decided She Would Kill to Have a Baby Prom Mom Killers: The Impact of Blame Shift and Distorted Statistics on Punishment for Neonaticide Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more. https://www.escapepod.live Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts? General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live On Social Media  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
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    35 mins
  • Protection or Illusion_ The Deadly Gaps in Protection Orders Ep. 98

    Protection or Illusion_ The Deadly Gaps in Protection Orders Ep. 98
    Dec 9 2025
    In this episode of The Escape Pod, we confront a sobering truth: the legal shield meant to protect victims of domestic violence can sometimes be little more than paper. Protection orders—also called restraining orders—are often hailed as a first line of defense, but as we’ll hear in today’s stories, their promises of safety are not always enough. Through real cases, data, and expert insights, we explore the deadly gaps in enforcement, the scenarios where orders fail, and the ways the system could evolve to truly safeguard those at risk. Inside This Episode The Promise and Limitations of Protection Orders Protection orders are court-issued documents intended to keep abusers away from victims, sometimes requiring surrender of weapons and forbidding contact. They can provide relief—but only when they are enforced. Studies show 10–12% of female intimate partner homicide victims had active protection orders at the time of their deaths. Globally, the UN reports that 51,100 women and girls were killed by intimate partners or family members in 2023, revealing the lethal stakes when safety measures fail. Stories That Highlight the Danger We dive into the harrowing cases of women whose protection orders weren’t enough: Shirley Lowery (1992, Chicago) – Ambushed and killed in a courthouse hallway by her ex-partner before her order could even be served.Tammie Marie Davis (1990, Southern California) – Shot and killed by her ex despite an active restraining order.Donna Montgomery (1995, Indiana) – Murdered at her workplace by her estranged husband shortly after securing an order.Theresa Bender (1993) – Killed by her husband the moment a temporary no-contact order expired.Maria Navarro (1989) – Despite an active order and multiple 911 calls, her abuser killed her, two aunts, and a friend.Betsy Murray – Her husband violated a temporary restraining order 13 times before ultimately killing her. These stories show a stark reality: orders can fail due to poor enforcement, abuser defiance, or gaps in protective measures. When Orders Escalate Danger Filing a protection order can sometimes provoke abusers, especially in cases involving firearms, stalking, or past severe violence. Research shows that violations often spike shortly after issuance—turning a legal tool into a potential trigger. Risk is especially high where abusers have history of ignoring authority, access to guns, substance abuse, or rural isolation. When Protection Orders Work Protection orders are most effective when: The abuser respects the law or fears consequences.They are paired with firearm removal laws (e.g., Lautenberg Amendment).There is strong enforcement, community support, and safety planning (locks, workplace alerts, apps for emergencies). Orders are not a standalone solution, but part of a broader safety strategy. The Bigger Picture While protective orders save lives and reduce costs—NNEDV notes $85 million in savings in Kentucky alone—they are far from foolproof. Survivors and advocates stress that orders must be enforced consistently and combined with resources like shelters, monitoring, and risk assessments. The takeaway is clear: paper protections are only as strong as the teeth behind them. Key Takeaways Protection orders save lives but are not infallible.Enforcement gaps and abuser defiance are persistent risks.Filing an order can escalate violence in high-risk cases.Effective safety requires a comprehensive approach—legal, practical, and social.Survivors should always consult an advocate before pursuing an order. If you are in danger, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or text “START” to 88788. RESOURCES: Femicides in 2023 Woman Slain; Suspect Sets Himself Afire Husband Kills Wife at Work, Himself Despite Escorts, Woman Slain by Stalker Husband Four Shot, Killed After 911 Call Fails to Summon Police Court Orders in Abuse Cases often Fail to Deter Violence Operation for Hope Reminds Victims of Violence That Goal is 'Safety, Not Justice' Are Restraining Orders Really the Best Option? Perspectives on Civil Protective Orders in Domestic Violence Cases: The Rural and Urban Divide Domestic Violence Protective Orders Are Effective in Reducing Homicides, Study Finds Intimate Partner Violence, Firearm Injuries and Homicides: A Health Justice Approach to Two Intersecting Public Health Crises Civil Protection Orders: Victims’ Views on Effectiveness One Woman or Girl is Killed Every 10 Minutes by Their Intimate Partner or Family Member Judge Reportedly Denied Protection Orders For Woman Cops Say Was Killed By Ex Connect With Us If you have thoughts, theories, or questions about this case, message us on social or email the show. Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more. https://www.escapepod.live Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or ...
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    33 mins
  • Digital Desire, Deadly Outcomes: The Case of Grant Amato Ep. 97

    Digital Desire, Deadly Outcomes: The Case of Grant Amato Ep. 97
    Dec 3 2025
    In today’s episode, we dive into the disturbing intersection of digital obsession, parasocial relationships, online sex work, addiction, and the psychological phenomenon known as hybristophilia—the attraction to criminals. Few cases capture this toxic blend more clearly than the story of Grant Amato, a Florida man who murdered his entire family in 2019 to continue funding a fantasy relationship with a cam model. This case is a haunting example of how unchecked obsession, entitlement, and delusion can escalate into catastrophic violence. Inside This Episode We walk through: The Amato Family Background Grant, the youngest son of Chad and Margaret Amato, grew up in a stable, financially comfortable household in Chuluota, Florida.Deeply enmeshed family dynamics shaped his early life, with Grant relying heavily on his brother Cody—his closest companion and “favorite person in the world.”Despite privilege and opportunity, Grant struggled to maintain employment and responsibility. The First Cracks Grant was dismissed from his nurse anesthetist program after a heated argument stemming from a medical error.He later lost a nursing job after drugging patients with propofol to make his night shifts “easier.”After his arrest and job loss, Grant spiraled into isolation—turning to the internet to escape reality. Digital Desire: The Parasocial Obsession Begins While attempting to become a Twitch streamer, Grant discovered com and became fixated on a Bulgarian cam model named Silvie.He believed he was in a real romantic relationship with her.Grant spent over $200,000 on Silvie—almost all of it stolen from his parents, brother, and aunt through fraud, stolen debit cards, and opened credit lines.Despite the betrayal, his family refused to press charges and tried relentlessly to support him. Intervention, Collapse, and Escape After repeated theft, the family staged an intervention and took Grant to a treatment facility for depression and sex/internet addiction.His father revealed the truth to Silvie, who cut contact with Grant.Margaret smuggled Grant a phone so he could continue talking to Silvie while in treatment.Less than two weeks later, he left the program, returned home, and was given a strict list of rules. January 24, 2019: The Murders Feeling cornered and unwilling to face consequences, Grant murdered: Margaret, shot in the back of the headChad, shot twice upon returning homeCody, lured into the house with a text sent from their father’s phone He staged the crime scene to resemble a murder-suicide and immediately used public WiFi to reconnect with Silvie using Cody’s bank account. Two of Cody’s coworkers requested welfare checks, leading deputies to the home. The Investigation Grant showed no emotion during questioning and never asked about his family’s condition.Provided contradictory stories and attempted to blame his father.Forensic evidence—including a thumb drive connected after the murders—tied Grant to the crime.The murder weapon was never found.He was convicted in August 2019 and sentenced to life without parole. Hybristophilia & The Women Who Love Killers While in prison: Grant received love letters and formed new parasocial relationships.He even managed to send thousands of dollars to another woman. After the docuseries Control + Alt + Desire aired, another shocking relationship surfaced: The Victoria Goodwin Murder-For-Hire Plot Victoria Goodwin, wife of Ghost Adventures star Aaron Goodwin, began writing to Grant.Their pen-pal exchanges morphed into a romantic affair.Using a contraband phone, they conspired to hire a hitman to kill her husband.She set aside $11,515 and provided schedules, vehicle info, and details.The plot was exposed when prison staff discovered Grant’s phone.Victoria pled guilty to conspiracy to commit murder in April 2025. Why Does This Happen? Understanding Hybristophilia We break down the psychology behind why some women fall in love with violent criminals, including: The fantasy of “fixing” or healing a dangerous manAttraction to perceived vulnerabilityDesire for attention or attachmentFeeling safe with a partner who is incarceratedTrauma histories and dysfunctional relational patternsThe role of media in glamorizing criminals (Ted Bundy, Ramirez, Dahmer, etc.)Social media fan cultures and the “fixing fantasy”Victim erasure in storytelling We also highlight well-known criminals who married in prison (Bundy, Ramirez, Tex Watson, the Menendez brothers). Resources & References Grant Amato on Wikipedia Paramount+: CTRL+ALT+DESIRE Grant Amato's Brother Testifies | Court TV Trial Archive (2019) Man Found Guilty of Killing Family Members Sentenced to Life in Prison Grant Amato Murdered His Family for a Webcam Model He Never Met No Death Penalty in Amato Case The Grant Amato Tragedy | Crime & Justice Prosecutors in Grant Amato Murder Trial Focus on Digital Evidence Creepy Bonfire: Murder for a Fantasy: Grant Amato’s ...
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    47 mins
  • In the Dead of Night — The Idaho College Murders, Part 2 Ep. 98

    In the Dead of Night — The Idaho College Murders, Part 2 Ep. 98
    Nov 26 2025
    Episode Summary In Part 2 of our deep dive into the Idaho College Student Murders, we turn the focus to the man behind the crime: Bryan Kohberger. This episode explores his past—childhood, adolescence, addiction, mental health struggles, academic obsessions, interpersonal dynamics, and online behaviors—in an attempt to understand what could have driven such calculated brutality. While no psychological profile can ever justify violence, examining Kohberger’s history helps us piece together the factors that may have shaped his worldview, his anger, and his disturbing pursuit of dominance. From addiction and bullying, to narcissistic traits, misogynistic behavior, and his fixation on criminology, we analyze what is known, what has been theorized, and what remains unsettlingly unclear. This is not about excusing a murderer—it’s about understanding the intersection of trauma, ego, rejection, and obsession that may have fueled one of the most chilling crimes in recent history. What We Cover in This Episode The defense’s attempts to delay trial and build a mitigation case Claims of autism spectrum disorder, OCD, ADHD, and visual snow syndrome Kohberger’s teenage addiction to heroin and repeated rehab attempts His rapid weight loss, subsequent eating disorder, and shift into bullying Rumors of a childhood car accident and potential trauma His transition from struggling student to aspiring criminologist Why classmates describe him as “alpha,” controlling, and socially aggressive The defense’s challenges to DNA evidence and alternate-suspect theories Online speculation about motive—revenge, misogyny, narcissism, incel ideology, or the pursuit of the “perfect crime” Why many believe Madison Mogen was the intended target Possible sexual motivation linked to digital history Theories involving his criminology professor and desire for recognition Why his guilty plea matters for victims’ families and the surviving roommates His July 2025 sentencing: life in prison Key Themes & Insights Narcissism & Dominance Former classmates repeatedly described Kohberger as someone who needed to be seen as superior—physically, intellectually, socially. His behavior aligns with traits often associated with narcissism: entitlement, resentment, lack of empathy, and obsession with power. Misogyny & Rejection Multiple sources reported female peers felt uncomfortable or unsafe around him. Combined with past disciplinary issues and online behavior, misogyny may have been a significant driving force. Addiction, Trauma & Identity Heroin addiction, rapid weight loss, hospitalization for an eating disorder, and social ostracization created a volatile mix of insecurity and rage. But millions experience trauma without turning violent. Kohberger’s choices were his own. Academic Obsession Meets Dark Curiosity His graduate studies on how criminals choose victims—and how they feel afterward—cast a long, disturbing shadow. Was he studying crime, or preparing for one? Motive Will Never Be Simple Revenge? Sexual fantasy? A desire for control? A failed attempt at committing the “perfect crime”? There is evidence pointing to each, but no single explanation can capture the complexity—or the horror—of his actions. Resources & Sources Referenced Bryan Kohberger Prosecutor Reveals Chilling Step-by-Step Account of Murderer’s Blood-lust Killings of 4 Idaho Students  NBC News: Bryan Kohberger Pleads Guilty at Hearing in Idaho College Student Murders  Four The Independent: Four Slain Students, a Weeks-long Manhunt But No Motive - Everything We Know About the Idaho Murders  Reddit: Kohberger’s 2 Main Murder Motives  New York Post: Bryan Kohberger Was an ‘Alpha’ Bully Who ‘Always Wanted to Be Dominant’  New Details of Bryan Kohberger's Addiction Battle and Dark Past Revealed in Idaho Murder Filings  ABC News 7: Bryan Kohberger, Idaho Murders suspect, First Arrested in 2014, Records Show  How a Family Tree and DNA Identified Idaho Murder Suspect Bryan Kohberger  Idaho Murders Suspect Bryan Kohberger 'Could Walk Free' Due To Bombshell DNA Evidence  Here’s How Bryan Kohberger Got Caught for Idaho Murders  Wikipedia—More Misogyny?  Bryan Kohberger Fired from WSU Teaching Job Days Before Idaho Murders Arrest  Idaho Murder Trial Judge to Allow ‘Bushy Eyebrows’ Testimony  Newly Released Texts and 911 Call Transcript from Surviving Roommates Reveal Panic and Terror  Surviving Roommates Dylan Mortenson and Bethany Funke Call 911  BRYAN KOHBERGER PLEADS GUILTY, His Killings Mapped by a Forensics Expert | Murder Maps | Daily Mail  Theory on Bryan Kohberger’s Motive  Reddit: More Motive Theory  Bryan Kohberger Motive Allegedly Tied to Former Professor  Bryan Kohberger's Defense Submits Theory of Alternate Perpetrator in Idaho Murders  Kohberger Sentenced to Life in ...
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    29 mins
  • In the Dead of Night — The Idaho College Murders, Part 1 Ep. 95

    In the Dead of Night — The Idaho College Murders, Part 1 Ep. 95
    Nov 19 2025
    Episode Summary: In November 2022, the quiet college town of Moscow, Idaho was shaken by the brutal murders of four University of Idaho students. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we break down the timeline of the night, the discovery of the crime, and the investigative work that led authorities to their prime suspect: Bryan Kohberger. From chilling behavioral patterns to cutting-edge DNA genealogy, this case is a haunting blend of horror and forensic breakthrough. What We Cover in This Episode A walkthrough of the victims' final hours How surviving roommates unintentionally crossed paths with the killer Confusing and conflicting early eyewitness accounts What police found at the crime scene How a single piece of DNA on a knife sheath cracked the case The role of investigative genetic genealogy The search for a white Hyundai Elantra and its connection to Kohberger His digital footprints: cell phone pings, surveillance video, and online behavior His criminology background and alarming behavioral patterns How investigators closed in during the holidays Kohberger’s guilty plea and what it means for sentencing The University of Idaho’s response and honoring of the victims Key Takeaways This case quickly became one of the most closely watched investigations in the country. A combination of digital forensics, genealogy databases, surveillance footage, and behavioral profiling led to an arrest. Kohberger’s academic focus on criminology created disturbing layers of irony in the case. The surviving roommates’ conflicting memories highlight the trauma and chaos of the event. The victims—Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan—were honored with posthumous degrees, and the home where the murders occurred has since been demolished. Resources & Sources Referenced   Bryan Kohberger Prosecutor Reveals Chilling Step-by-Step Account of Murderer’s Blood-lust Killings of 4 Idaho Students  NBC News: Bryan Kohberger Pleads Guilty at Hearing in Idaho College Student Murders  Four The Independent: Four Slain Students, a Weeks-long Manhunt But No Motive - Everything We Know About the Idaho Murders  Reddit: Kohberger’s 2 Main Murder Motives  New York Post: Bryan Kohberger Was an ‘Alpha’ Bully Who ‘Always Wanted to Be Dominant’  New Details of Bryan Kohberger's Addiction Battle and Dark Past Revealed in Idaho Murder Filings  ABC News 7: Bryan Kohberger, Idaho Murders suspect, First Arrested in 2014, Records Show  How a Family Tree and DNA Identified Idaho Murder Suspect Bryan Kohberger  Idaho Murders Suspect Bryan Kohberger 'Could Walk Free' Due To Bombshell DNA Evidence  Here’s How Bryan Kohberger Got Caught for Idaho Murders  Wikipedia—More Misogyny?  Bryan Kohberger Fired from WSU Teaching Job Days Before Idaho Murders Arrest  Idaho Murder Trial Judge to Allow ‘Bushy Eyebrows’ Testimony  Newly Released Texts and 911 Call Transcript from Surviving Roommates Reveal Panic and Terror  Surviving Roommates Dylan Mortenson and Bethany Funke Call 911  BRYAN KOHBERGER PLEADS GUILTY, His Killings Mapped by a Forensics Expert | Murder Maps | Daily Mail  Theory on Bryan Kohberger’s Motive  Reddit: More Motive Theory  Bryan Kohberger Motive Allegedly Tied to Former Professor  Bryan Kohberger's Defense Submits Theory of Alternate Perpetrator in Idaho Murders  If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling This episode deals with traumatic and violent content. If you need support, please reach out to trusted mental health resources or crisis hotlines in your area. Connect With Us If you have thoughts, theories, or questions about this case, message us on social or email the show. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive into motive theories, defense strategies, psychological background, and unanswered questions that still linger. Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.    https://www.escapepod.live    Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?   General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live   Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live    On Social Media   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos    Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701 
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    43 mins
  • Beyond the Bottle — Seth Malott on Sobriety and Hope Ep. 94

    Beyond the Bottle — Seth Malott on Sobriety and Hope Ep. 94
    Nov 12 2025

    Guest: Seth Malott, Host of Sober City Theme: Sobriety, Recovery, and the Power of Honest Conversations

    Show Summary: In this powerful episode of The Escape Pod, hosts Charity and KB sit down with Seth Malott, the voice behind the Sober City podcast, to unpack what it really means to live beyond addiction.

    Seth shares his own story of recovery, the inspiration behind Sober City, and the raw truths he’s learned from others walking the same road. Together, they dive into the misconceptions about alcoholism, the impact of America’s growing “sober curious” movement, and the hope that comes when people start telling the truth—out loud.

    Whether you’re in recovery, love someone who is, or simply want to understand the human side of addiction, this conversation offers both compassion and clarity. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t linear—but it is possible.

    Episode Highlights
    • The origin story of Sober City and how storytelling builds community in recovery
    • Seth’s most memorable guest moments—and what they taught him about resilience
    • Common myths about addiction and why shame still silences so many
    • The hidden epidemic of alcohol use disorder in America—and what we can do about it
    • Why the “sober curious” movement is gaining traction
    • Three practical steps for anyone beginning their own sobriety journey
    Takeaway

    Addiction thrives in silence. Conversations like this one remind us that recovery grows in connection.

    Resources & References

    Sober City podcast

    Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.

    https://www.escapepod.live

    Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?

    General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live

    Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live

    On Social Media 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy 

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/ 

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos

    Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Am I the A-hole? Ep. 93

    Am I the A-hole? Ep. 93
    Nov 5 2025

    Theme: Ethical Dilemmas, Digital Boundaries, and Everyday Chaos

    Show Summary: In this episode of The Escape Pod, Charity and KB dive into one of the internet’s most brutally honest corners—Reddit’s Am I the A-hole? From overbearing parents and Life360 tracking to messy family drama and relationship double standards, we’re unpacking the moral gray areas that make us all human. You’ll laugh, cringe, and maybe even question your own inner A-hole as we explore how everyday choices—big and small—shape relationships, trust, and personal boundaries.

    Because sometimes, escaping isn’t about leaving the drama behind… it’s about finally seeing it for what it is.

    Episode Highlights:
    • Life360 and Parental Control: How much digital monitoring is too much when your “baby” goes to college?
    • Boundaries vs. Tradition: Should you change a long-standing party plan to fit a new partner’s expectations?
    • Neighborhood Drama: When “mind your own business” becomes fighting words.
    • Family Feuds: The fine line between truth-telling and cruelty in sibling rivalries.
    • Wedding Wars: Who gets the final say when family boundaries clash with love and loyalty?
    • Bonus Chaos: Can “I’m sorry to hear that” really make you the bad guy?

    Key Takeaways:
    • The AITA threads reveal how messy modern relationships have become in the digital age.
    • Technology has blurred the line between connection and control.
    • Emotional boundaries matter as much as moral ones—and sometimes even more.
    • No one’s perfect, but accountability starts with honesty (and maybe a little self-awareness).

    🎧 Tune In If You Love:
    • True stories that spark debate
    • Moral gray areas and internet drama
    • Real talk about modern relationships
    • Humor with a side of heart

    Resources & References

    Reddit.com

    Go to AmItheAsshole

    r/AmItheAsshole•

    Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.

    https://www.escapepod.live

    Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?

    General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live

    Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live

    On Social Media 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy 

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    49 mins