Step inside the haunted mind of NYT bestselling author J.D. Barker... if you dare. 🏚️👻

This week on Macabre Mondays, we sit down with the master storyteller behind The Fourth Monkey and Something I Keep Upstairs to uncover the chilling inspirations behind his work.
From childhood fears to haunted house research, J.D. pulls back the curtain on how real-life horror seeps into his fiction—and how he crafts the kind of suspense that stays with you long after the lights go out.

🎙️ In this episode, we cover:

• J.D.'s journey from corporate life to full-time bestselling author
• How real haunted places inspired Something I Keep Upstairs
• Building terrifyingly real characters and spine-chilling suspense
• What it takes to leave behind the ordinary and pursue a life built on storytelling
• And of course… details on how you could win a night in the haunted house that started it all

🔗 Giveaway link here!

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
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📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

In This Episode:

• Who was Brian Shaffer?
• Timeline of the night he vanished
• Surveillance footage anomalies
• Key theories: staged disappearance, foul play, Smile Face Killer connection, and more
• What Brian’s family and friends have said over the years
• The impact of the case on Columbus, Ohio—and why it still captures national attention

Do you think Brian planned his disappearance, or did something more sinister happen that night? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram @MacabreMondaysPodcast

New here? Don’t forget to follow and leave a review—so you never miss a new episode of the sinister, the strange, and the spooky.

Sources:

• The Lantern – Is Brian Shaffer Alive?
• Wikipedia – Disappearance of Brian Shaffer
• People – What Happened to Brian Shaffer?
• 10TV – Investigation Leads to Virgin Islands
• Digg – How Brian Shaffer Disappeared into Thin Air
• 614 Now – 18-Year Anniversary Update
• Central Ohio Crime Stoppers – Submit a Tip
• The Lantern – Update on Alexis Waggoner
• Promedica – Dr. Alexis Waggoner-Noss
• Columbus Dispatch – Photo Gallery of the Case

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

Welcome back to Macabre Mondays for the continuation of our deep dive into the perplexing and tragic death of Kendrick Johnson. In Part 1, we explored the initial discovery and the many questions that immediately arose. Now, in Part 2, we delve into even more disturbing aspects of the case, fueling the suspicions of a potential cover-up. 

Trigger Warnings: This episode contains descriptions of violence, death, and potentially disturbing autopsy details. Listener discretion is always advised.

In episode Pt 2, we delve into:

• Missing organs and newspaper?
• Missing CCTV footage
• The Bell brothers
• The FBI's involvement
• The current status of the case

Sources:

• Finding Kendrick Johnson (Tubi Documentary)
• WJCL News Reports
• CNN News Reports
• Valdosta Daily Times Reports
• Valdosta Daily Times Final Walk
• Walb
• All That's Interesting
• Stanford University’s ‘Say Their Names’ exhibit
• WALB News
• FatalBreakdown (YouTube)
• Truly Criminal (YouTube)
• YouTube video footage
• r/AwfulEverything
• r/UnresolvedMysteries
• Wiki

This case is a complex puzzle, and we've only scratched the surface. We encourage you to dig deeper, to do your own research. Explore the sources we've provided in the show notes. Form your own conclusions. And if you find something that resonates, share it.

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

On January 10th, 2013, 17-year-old Kendrick Johnson vanished from Lowndes High School in Valdosta, Georgia. His body was found the next day, rolled up inside a gym mat, sparking a mystery that continues to haunt the community. What began as an accidental death ruling quickly spiraled into a complex web of conflicting evidence, missing camera footage, and accusations of a cover-up.

Trigger Warnings: This episode contains descriptions of violence, death, and potentially disturbing autopsy details. Listener discretion is always advised.

In episode Pt 1, we delve into:

• The bizarre circumstances surrounding Kendrick's death and the initial investigation.
• The conflicting autopsy reports.
• The suspicious lack of cooperation from the school and law enforcement.
• The missing CCTV footage and the questions it raises.
• The family's relentless pursuit of justice and their belief that Kendrick was murdered.

Sources:

• Finding Kendrick Johnson (Tubi Documentary)
• WJCL News Reports
• CNN News Reports
• Valdosta Daily Times Reports
• Valdosta Daily Times Final Walk
• Walb
• All That's Interesting
• Stanford University’s ‘Say Their Names’ exhibit
• WALB News
• FatalBreakdown (YouTube)
• Truly Criminal (YouTube)
• YouTube video footage
• r/AwfulEverything
• r/UnresolvedMysteries
• Wiki

This case is a complex puzzle, and we've only scratched the surface. We encourage you to dig deeper, to do your own research. Explore the sources we've provided in the show notes. Form your own conclusions. And if you find something that resonates, share it. 

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

Welcome to this week's episode of Macabre Mondays, where we delve into the haunting and still-unsolved disappearance of Kris Kremers and Lisanne Froon. In 2014, these two young Dutch women set off on an adventure to Panama, hoping to volunteer and experience a new culture. But a seemingly simple hike on the Pianista Trail turned into a terrifying mystery. Join us as we explore the crucial details of this baffling case, from the initial alarm bells to the unsettling discoveries of their backpack, phones, camera, and remains, and the many theories that try to explain what truly happened to Kris and Lisanne in the Panamanian wilderness.

If you want to learn more about this case, here are some of the sources we used in our research:

DailyBeast

All That's Interesting

Forensic Tales

Dutch Article on the girls

YouTube Channels:

Dutch News Repost by Scarlett R

Locations Unknown! Ep #82

Reddit Threads:

r/Unsolved Mysteries

r/Unresolved Mysteries

r/Unresolved Mysteries

r/Kremers Froon

Please note that some of these sources may contain graphic or disturbing content.

Thank you for tuning in to Macabre Mondays. Join us next week for another dive into the dark side.

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

This week on Macabre Mondays, we explore the rugged terrain of Brown Mountain in North Carolina to cover the mysterious lights that have intrigued and perplexed observers for generations. We explore the historical sightings, scientific theories, and paranormal investigations surrounding these luminous phenomena. 

Key Points Covered:

• What are the Brown Mountain Lights?
• Historical sightings and investigations (including the USGS reports).
• Scientific explanations (atmospheric refraction, geological electrical activity, plasma phenomena). 
• Paranormal theories and local folklore.
• Eyewitness accounts and viewing locations.
• The terrain and geological factors of Brown Mountain.

Resources and Links:

U.S. Geological Survey Reports

Scientific Studies on Atmospheric Phenomena

Recent Footage Caught by 2 Scientists 

Paranormal Research Websites

General Information on the Appalacian Mountains

Local Historical Society Information: 

• Romantic Asheville
• Destination Mcdowell
• Weird Appalachia: Brown Mountain Lights

Local News Articles on Brown Mountain Lights:

• PBSNC
• WBTV

Information on How to View the Lights Yourself: 

• Discover Burke County
• Free Charm
• Brown Mountain Overlook Address

Reddit Threads That Discuss The Brown Mountain Lights: 

• Reddit Thread 1
• Reddit Thread 2

Additional Notes:

• The Brown Mountain Lights have been reported by Cherokee and Catawba tribes, early settlers, and modern-day observers.
• Wiseman’s View and the Blue Ridge Parkway are popular viewing locations.
• The lights are most often reported as small, star-like points of light with erratic movements.
• Mention that the X-Files episode "Field Trip" was based on the Brown Mountain Lights.

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

Beyond the shamrocks and celebrations lies a darker side to Irish tradition. On this week's Macabre Mondays, we delve into the eerie stories of Irish Folklore Killers. The Púca, a mischievous spirit that revels in chaos; the Banshee, a spectral messenger of death; and the Dearg Due, a tragic figure turned bloodthirsty predator. Prepare for a St. Patrick's Day filled with spine-tingling tales.

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

Part 2 of the Fox Hollow Farm Murders dives deeper into the shocking discoveries at Herb Baumeister's property and the aftermath of his suicide. With thousands of bone fragments unearthed, the investigation takes a complex turn. Did Baumeister act alone? What became of the missing videotapes? And how did the community react to the chilling revelations? We explore the theories and lingering questions that still surround this haunting case.

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

Beneath the manicured lawns and quiet streets of Westfield, Indiana, a nightmare unfolded at Fox Hollow Farm. Herb Baumeister, a seemingly successful businessman and family man, concealed a dark and horrifying secret. This episode explores the missing men of Indianapolis, the shocking discoveries on his property, and the ongoing investigation to identify the countless victims of a suburban serial killer. Join us as we unravel the chilling tale of a predator who preyed on the vulnerable and left a legacy of terror.

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.

Welcome aboard, listeners! Macabre Mondays is setting sail with a brand-new special series: Cruise Cabin 13. Every time we hit the high seas, we'll be bringing you chilling tales from the world of maritime mysteries, crimes, and the downright spooky—all recorded live from our cabin. This week, as we embark on our latest voyage, we're diving deep into the perplexing disappearance of Amy Lynn Bradley. Lost at sea...or something more? Listen now and join the investigation

🎧 Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast hosted by Alejandra and her husband Tom. Each week, storyteller and spooky enthusiast Ale unpacks some of the most haunting cases she’s researched, dragging her husband along for the ride, whether he’s ready for it or not. He’s hearing it all for the first time… just like you.

New here? Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Your guides through the strange, the sinister, and the spooky…

For photos of todays episode visit our social handles or our website to learn more.

Join us each week as we delve into the world where mystery meets the macabre:

• Instagram: @macabremondayspodcast
• Facebook: Macabre Mondays Podcast
• YouTube: @macabremondayspodcast
• TikTok: @macabremondayspodcast
• X: @macabremondays_

📬 Want to give us a scare? 

Email us at: [email protected]

Sources listed on our site!

Disclaimer: Macabre Mondays is a true crime and paranormal podcast created for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information discussed in this episode has been compiled from publicly available sources, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or free of error. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and do not represent any law enforcement agency, court, or official organization. This content may include graphic descriptions of violence, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Macabre Mondays does not condone or glorify criminal behavior.