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Before she became The Black Dahlia, Elizabeth Short was simply Beth — a young woman with big dreams, an open heart, and a longing for something beyond the ordinary. In Part Two: Becoming Elizabeth, we step back in time to uncover the story of the woman behind the legend.
From her childhood in Medford, Massachusetts, through family tragedy, illness, and the Great Depression, we follow Elizabeth’s journey into adolescence — a girl fascinated by Hollywood glamour and determined to create a better life for herself.
We trace her adventures from the frozen streets of New England to the sun-drenched beaches of Florida and the military bases of California during World War II. Along the way, we meet the men who loved her — and the heartbreaks that would shape her fate.
This episode explores the making of Elizabeth Short: the beauty, the dreamer, and the woman who walked fearlessly into a world that would one day remember her by another name.
About This Series
BROKEN: The Black Dahlia Murder is a six-part Once Upon a Crime original series.
Through extensive research, historical records, and firsthand accounts, Esther Ludlow uncovers the truth behind America’s most infamous unsolved murder, separating fact from fiction to rediscover the real woman behind the myth.
Sources & References
Sponsors:
See a list of our sponsors and discount codes on our website:
https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/sponsors/
Links:
Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime
Our Website - www.truecrimepodcast.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponACrimePodcast
Mortal Musings Podcast: https://mortalmusingspodcast.com/
Visit the new OUAC MERCH SHOP!
For a limited time, get up to 27% off all products — including $16 tees — during our Grand Opening Sale. But hurry, deals end October 31st!
Shop now at onceuponacrime.dashery.com.
✈️ Travel with Us to Mexico City! 🇲🇽
We’re taking Once Upon a Crime on the road—and you’re invited! In March 2026, join us for a fun, fabulous 4-day group trip to vibrant Mexico City. Explore incredible sights, savor delicious food, and connect with fellow true crimefans on an unforgettable adventure.
Reserve your spot today with just 25% down—but hurry, space is limited and will sell out fast!
🔗 Click here to learn more and book your spot now!
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
By Esther Ludlow4.6
47224,722 ratings
Before she became The Black Dahlia, Elizabeth Short was simply Beth — a young woman with big dreams, an open heart, and a longing for something beyond the ordinary. In Part Two: Becoming Elizabeth, we step back in time to uncover the story of the woman behind the legend.
From her childhood in Medford, Massachusetts, through family tragedy, illness, and the Great Depression, we follow Elizabeth’s journey into adolescence — a girl fascinated by Hollywood glamour and determined to create a better life for herself.
We trace her adventures from the frozen streets of New England to the sun-drenched beaches of Florida and the military bases of California during World War II. Along the way, we meet the men who loved her — and the heartbreaks that would shape her fate.
This episode explores the making of Elizabeth Short: the beauty, the dreamer, and the woman who walked fearlessly into a world that would one day remember her by another name.
About This Series
BROKEN: The Black Dahlia Murder is a six-part Once Upon a Crime original series.
Through extensive research, historical records, and firsthand accounts, Esther Ludlow uncovers the truth behind America’s most infamous unsolved murder, separating fact from fiction to rediscover the real woman behind the myth.
Sources & References
Sponsors:
See a list of our sponsors and discount codes on our website:
https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/sponsors/
Links:
Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime
Our Website - www.truecrimepodcast.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponACrimePodcast
Mortal Musings Podcast: https://mortalmusingspodcast.com/
Visit the new OUAC MERCH SHOP!
For a limited time, get up to 27% off all products — including $16 tees — during our Grand Opening Sale. But hurry, deals end October 31st!
Shop now at onceuponacrime.dashery.com.
✈️ Travel with Us to Mexico City! 🇲🇽
We’re taking Once Upon a Crime on the road—and you’re invited! In March 2026, join us for a fun, fabulous 4-day group trip to vibrant Mexico City. Explore incredible sights, savor delicious food, and connect with fellow true crimefans on an unforgettable adventure.
Reserve your spot today with just 25% down—but hurry, space is limited and will sell out fast!
🔗 Click here to learn more and book your spot now!
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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