Bound by the Cloak

Two NYPD detectives sworn to uphold the law—yet deeply entangled in the world of organized crime. Journalist and acclaimed author Michael Cannell is back with us to discuss his gripping new book, Blood and the Badge: The Mafia, Two Killer Cops, and a Scandal That Shocked the Nation. Michael uncovers the shocking true story of two NYPD officers who secretly worked for the mob, carrying out hits and leaking information to some of the most dangerous crime families in New York. How did these cops manage to operate in plain sight? What led to their eventual downfall? And how did their crimes shake the foundation of law enforcement? Explore this explosive case of betrayal, power, and the blurred lines between justice and corruption.

Michael is an accomplished author and journalist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. He has penned five non-fiction books, including Blood and the Badge: The Mafia, Two Killer Cops, and a Scandal That Shocked the Nation, A Brotherhood Betrayed: The Man Behind the Rise and Fall of Murder, Inc., and Incendiary: The Psychiatrist, the Mad Bomber and the Invention of Criminal Profiling.

Imagine setting foot in a place you've never been, meeting people from all walks of life, and facing challenges that push you beyond your limits—only to discover the incredible impact travel has on one's life. We're joined by Emma Wong-Stephens, an avid traveler and blogger who has turned her passion for exploring the world into a platform for storytelling and inspiration. From bustling cities to remote landscapes, Emma shares her most memorable adventures, her favorite places in the world, the challenges she's faced on the road, and the fascinating people she's encountered along the way. Beyond the breathtaking destinations, Emma reflects on how travel shapes our understanding of humanity and how stepping outside our comfort zones can deepen our empathy and appreciation for the world.

Genetic disorders can be a mystery to many, but for those living with them, they're a daily reality. In this episode, we talk to Melissa, who shares her life with Senior-Løken Syndrome — a rare condition that affects her vision and kidney function. Melissa opens up about her experiences, challenges, and triumphs as she navigates a world not designed for people like her.

We're also joined by Dr. Julian Barwell, a geneticist who helps us understand the science behind genetic disorders. He breaks down the importance of genetic research, early diagnosis, and how advancements in medicine are offering new hope to patients and families alike.

Through personal stories and expert insight, this episode connects science and the human experience

This mini episode includes even more sleep paralysis stories. Some of these stories are more stories from the guests featured in episode 26 and some are brand new!

Sleep paralysis is a condition that blurs the lines between dreams and waking life, leaving those who experience it frozen in fear. In this episode, we delve into the eerie and fascinating world of sleep paralysis by talking to individuals who've faced this mysterious phenomenon.

Our featured guest, Ranita Roy, shares her vivid and haunting experiences, providing a glimpse into what it feels like to be awake but unable to move, all while encountering surreal, shadowy figures. Alongside Ranita's story, we hear from others whose accounts range from unsettling to oddly enlightening, uncovering how culture, psychology, and personal beliefs shape the way we experience and interpret this sleep anomaly.

Ranita is a storyteller and creative artist with a keen interest in exploring the intersection of dreams, consciousness, and the human psyche. Drawing from her own vivid experiences with sleep paralysis, Ranita combines personal narratives with cultural and psychological insights.

Have you ever wondered why certain illnesses only seem to appear in specific cultures? How do cultural beliefs shape our experience of health and illness? In this episode, we explore the world of culture-bound syndromes with medical anthropologist, Peter Guarnaccia.

What happens when love turns deadly in the shadow of race and privilege? In this episode, we unravel a true crime that shook the foundations of Georgia's high society.

Deb Miller Landau, joins us to discuss the tragic and harrowing murder of Lita McClinton. Lita, a young woman from Atlanta, became the victim of a calculated murder-for-hire scheme led by her estranged husband. The crime would expose a world where money and influence often overshadow justice.

Deb is an accomplished author and journalist known for her in-depth storytelling on crime, social justice, and cultural issues. Her book, A Devil Went Down to Georgia: Race, Power, Privilege, and the Murder of Lita McClinton, explores the shocking murder of Lita and the racial and societal dynamics surrounding the case. With a background in investigative journalism, Deb brings a sharp, insightful voice to uncovering the deeper issues behind some of the country's most compelling and tragic events.

Field of Screams is one of America's best haunted attractions, and it's been striking fear into and scaring the souls out of the souls of the thousands of guests that show up year after year. Started by brothers Gene and Jim Schopf back in 1993, it's transformed from just a haunted hayride into so much more with three haunted houses and escape rooms. We spent some time at Field of Screams getting to know the Schopfs, making our own way through the many haunted attractions and learning just what draws in the souls of it's many guests, or should I say victims, year after year.