Growing up in a wealthy family in Southern California, Erik and Lyle seemed to live the perfect life. However, behind closed doors, they suffered unimaginable abuse at the hands of their father, while their mother turned a blind eye. In this  episode we will explore how their affluent upbringing masked a tragic reality, including the long-lasting effects of their trauma.

As we unpack the brothers’ harrowing experiences, we discuss the psychological impact of their father's abuse, the pivotal moments leading to the tragic murders of their parents in 1989, and the societal reactions that followed. From the courtroom drama to the media frenzy, this case highlights the complexities of family dynamics and the struggle for justice in the face of disbelief and stigma. We delve into the brothers’ trials, the public’s misunderstanding of male abuse survivors, and the journey of seeking justice for a crime that stemmed from a desperate bid for safety.

Tune in now to hear the full story of the Menendez brothers, their tragic past, and the dark secrets that led to a crime that shocked the nation.

Mental Health Resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org (https://www.nami.org/Home)
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• The Menendez Trial - Saturday Night Trial
• The Menendez Brothers Documentary

Topics Discussed: 

• Brief overview of the Menendez brothers' case
• Two trials: first resulted in a hung jury, second in conviction
• The brothers were convicted of first-degree murder but spared the death penalty.
• Discussion of how the media portrayed the brothers negatively, especially after they spent money following the murders.
• Reflection on societal attitudes towards male sexual abuse victims in the late 1980s and the changes that occurred over time.

CONNECT WITH US:

Rachel Parodneck

• LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-parodneck
• Website | rpalcsw.com
• Instagram | @rpa_psychotherapy

Joni McLeod 

• LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/in/joni-mcleod-b64a8722a
• Website | rootedmentalhealth.com
• Instagram | @jonimcleodlmhc

ABOUT THE PODCAST

The podcast where two mental health therapists diagnose true crimes. Rachel Parodneck, LCSW and Joni McLeod, LMHC are on the case investigating real life crimes and the minds that commit them. This podcast profiles and explores the mental illnesses of people who murder.Rachel and Joni are two NYC based therapists who are both passionate about mental health and true crime. This podcast combines the subject matter.*Rachel and Joni have not treated any individuals involved in this podcast. The opinions and views expressed are purely for entertainment purposes.