Killer Psychologist

Emmy-Award-winning producer Alexandra Orton, the creative mind behind Out There: Crimes of the Paranormal on Hulu, joins us for an in-depth conversation. Best known for her work on Secrets of Playboy, ReMastered, and Framing John DeLorean, Alexandra dives into her latest docuseries, which unravels eight true crime cases where the supernatural meets reality. From UFO crashes and mysterious beasts to occult murders and ghostly threats, Alexandra takes us behind the scenes, revealing new truths about mythology, the paranormal, and the monsters among us.



Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Killer Psychologist and Out There Crimes of the Paranormal
01:54 Exploring Belief Systems and Cultural Influences
06:14 The Intersection of True Crime and Supernatural Elements
10:02 Case Study: The Goat Man and Real-Life Consequences
13:47 Justice and Miscarriages in Indigenous Cases
18:10 Community and Belief: The Role of Loneliness and Connection
24:01 Conclusion and Future Aspirations


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Dr. Nicholas Baham, professor and noir crime fiction author, exposes the stark realities of sex trafficking and the intricate forensic elements woven into his novel, The People’s Detective. He discusses his inspiration, its connection to current events like Sean "Diddy" Combs' arrest, and the societal influences behind his work. Through extensive research and storytelling, Dr. Baham sheds light on the crisis of missing women, the complexities of forensic investigation, and the broader portrayal of trafficking and crime in the Bay Area.


Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Killer Psychologist and Dr. Nicholas Baham
02:55 Exploring the Themes of Sex Trafficking
06:50 Understanding the Complexities of Sex Trafficking
11:09 The Role of Drugs and Manipulation in Trafficking
15:32 The Legal Challenges for Victims
20:51 Advocacy and Resources for Victims
23:18 The Intersection of Sex Work and Trafficking
27:49 The Grooming Process and Its Implications
34:01 The Sean Combs Case: Power Dynamics and Victimization
48:01 The Broader Implications of the Case
52:51 Conclusion and Future Directions


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Understanding the distinction between court-ordered evaluations, such as competency to stand trial, is crucial for navigating complex legal cases involving mental health. In this episode, Dr. Rod Hoevet discusses how these evaluations impact legal outcomes, with a focus on the high-profile case of Bianca Ellis, a woman from Cleveland, Ohio, who stabbed a 3-year-old to death. As the public grapples with her legal proceedings, forensic psychologists delve into the critical differences between assessing competency and examining the insanity defense, shedding light on the intricate balance between mental illness and criminal responsibility.


Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Forensic Psychology
02:51 Understanding Competency to Stand Trial
06:07 The Evaluation Process and Its Importance
08:55 Legal Implications of Competency
11:48 Unique Cases and Evaluations
14:59 The Role of Mental Health in Competency
17:50 Challenges in Evaluating Competency
21:06 Public Perception and Misunderstandings
23:56 The Insanity Defense vs. Competency
27:13 The Importance of Timely Evaluations
30:02 Consultation and Collaboration with Attorneys
32:56 The Role of Forensic Psychologists in High-Profile Cases
35:51 Mentorship and Education in Forensic Psychology

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What is hybristophilia? Why would someone fall for a killer, and just how far will they go in the name of love? We investigate the case of convicted murderer Wade Wilson, now on death row. Legal expert Eric Zelaya walks us through the conviction process, revealing what unfolds after a verdict is handed down. Uncover the intricate legal journey and the dark obsessions that fuel these dangerous relationships—where women find themselves captivated by notorious criminals. Get ready for a revealing look into the minds behind these deadly attractions.


Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wade Wilson's Case
03:07 Understanding Hybristophilia
06:03 The Psychology Behind Criminal Obsession
09:04 The Role of Substance Abuse in Violent Crimes
12:06 Legal Strategies and Mental Health Defenses
14:53 The Impact of Social Media on True Crime
17:53 The Dangers of Misinformation in True Crime
21:14 Conclusion and Future Discussions

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Can mental health conditions truly reshape legal outcomes? Dr. Dana Anderson and Dr. Craig Wetterer explore how mental health diversion (MHD) can offer a second chance for individuals facing criminal charges. They reveal how forensic psychology and law converge to create meaningful alternatives to incarceration, reducing or even eliminating charges through targeted treatment. This episode provides essential insights for attorneys looking to apply MHD strategies and clients who want to better understand the process. Whether you're in the courtroom or navigating the justice system, you’ll gain practical guidance on leveraging mental health diversion for a brighter future.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Diversion Evaluations
00:59 Defining Mental Health Diversion Evaluations
02:28 Exclusion of Antisocial Personality Disorder
06:14 The Process and Impact of Mental Health Diversion
13:17 The Problem of Misdiagnosis
19:03 The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
21:47 The Benefits of Psychological Evaluations
28:03 Challenges with Co-occurring Mental Illness and Antisocial Behavior
30:28 The Importance of Accurate Psychological Evaluations
32:27 The Side Effects of Antipsychotic Drugs
33:52 Uncovering the Truth: Therapy as an Intervention
36:36 Understanding Personality Disorders
40:22 The Gut Feeling: Recognizing Personality Disorders
45:09 Getting it Right the First Time: Hiring Qualified Professionals
50:23 Beware of Unlicensed Practitioners
54:42 The Challenges of Prosecuting Unlicensed Practitioners
56:37 The Benefits of Independent Evaluations

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"I Don't Like Mondays" by N. Leigh Hunt is a gripping true crime book that delves into the harrowing case of Brenda Ann Spencer, who, at just 16 years old, became America's first school shooter on January 29, 1979. From her home across the street, Spencer opened fire on an elementary school in San Diego, tragically killing two adults and injuring eight children and a police officer. Her chilling response when asked why she committed the crime—"I don't like Mondays"—which inspired the book's title

Join forensic psychologists as they explore the complex psychological and social factors that may have contributed to Spencer's actions and examine the broader implications of this tragedy. The discussion covers the profound and lasting impact on the victims, their families, and the community, as well as the controversial debate surrounding Spencer's potential release on parole. Drawing on meticulous research and interviews, Hunt offers a comprehensive account of the crime that remains deeply relevant in today's discussions on school violence, mental health, and the criminal justice system.


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In this episode, seasoned investigator Jerry Lyons, known for his work on the Casey Anthony case, joins forces with experts Eric Zelaya and Dr. Craig Wetterer to dive deep into the Son of Sam law—a legal doctrine that prevents criminals from profiting off the publicity of their crimes. The discussion unpacks the reasons behind the public's fascination with notorious criminal cases and examines how psychological traps like attribution bias, confirmation bias, and the need for control distort our perception of justice. The team also delves into the complexities of double jeopardy, the disturbing obsession with true crime, and the public's fixation on cases like that of Gypsy Rose Blanchard. Don't miss this thought-provoking analysis of the darker side of our collective obsession with the most infamous crimes.

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In the gripping conclusion to "Pretty but Deadly", Helene returns with a shocking revelation of how her mother, driven by a twisted compulsion, ultimately poisons her own husband—Helene's father. Helene uncovers this final, devastating act. How does a family unravel when the person they trust most becomes their greatest threat? Join us as Helene, with her compelling storytelling, pieces together the chilling truth of her family's tragic history. This episode will leave you questioning the depths of human behavior and the hidden dangers that can lurk within the family unit.


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Prepare to be captivated by the harrowing story of a seemingly perfect mother who harbors a deadly secret. Beneath her beauty lies a terrifying obsession with control, driving her to poison her children and husband in a tragic case of Munchausen by Proxy. Helene, one of the children who miraculously survived, is a masterful storyteller who brings this dark tale to life. With bravery, she reveals the twisted psychology that led her mother to commit these unimaginable acts. Listen in as we explore the red flags and warning signs that went unreported.

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Unravel the dark web of psychological manipulation that led to a shocking murder by proxy, where years of abuse and deception culminated in the notorious killing of Gypsy's mother Dee Dee Blanchard. This episode takes you deep into the minds of Nicholas Godejohn, serving life in prison, and Gypsy Rose, who is out on parole. We dissect the factors that drove them to plan such a heinous crime and ask whether justice was truly served. Will Gypsy Rose return to prison, or has she truly broken free from her past? Board Certified Homicide Investigator Eric Zelaya examines the unsettling secrets and dark truths behind this case, uncovering the twisted dynamics that have fascinated the public.

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