Best Survivors Guide To True Crime Podcasts (2025)

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Ripples of Recovery: JJ's Journey from War to Sobriety Independance Day Special, Trigger Warning 58:04

1d ago58:04

58:04

Send us a text Some heroes wear uniforms, while others create sanctuaries for healing. In this powerful conversation, we meet JJ, founder of Ripple Retreat and a veteran with 27 years of military service who transformed his own trauma into a mission of recovery and hope. After surviving four close calls during deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, J…

1
The Launch of Contagious Smile Academy and The Best of te Best Webinar 46:04

6d ago46:04

46:04

Send us a text We're thrilled to announce the launch of Contagious Smile Academy! This passion project represents years of experience transformed into over 100 practical courses designed to support trauma survivors, special needs families, veterans, and anyone seeking personal growth during challenging times. The Academy features specialized collec…

1
S3-E15 True Crime Interview: Escaping Her Childhood Abuse and Crime Family with Donna Hall 31:23

10d ago31:23

31:23

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Jeryl Spear interviews Donna Hall, whose childhood was derailed by the neglect and abuse of her crime family; her escape from her tormentors at age 15; and how she has carved out a new life defined by unconditional love. Website: https://www.onegoodthingmedia.com/ Facebook:…

1
Healing Trauma Through Connection 48:00

13d ago48:00

48:00

Send us a text The raw power of lived experience drives everything behind A Contagious Smile, and in this candid episode, Victoria and Michael reveal exactly why they've dedicated their lives to supporting abuse survivors. Fresh off receiving three prestigious awards—including Best Transformative Trauma Advocate for Domestic Violence from Insider W…

1
Survivor's Escape Plan TRIGGER WARNING 44:07

13d ago44:07

44:07

Send us a text After Victoria's powerful interview about surviving domestic violence became the podcast's most popular episode ever, Michael and Victoria return with this crucial follow-up discussion diving deeper into practical escape strategies that saved her life. Victoria shares the harrowing reality of living with a violent narcissist while pr…

1
S5B5 THE FBI REPORT: WHY ACTIVE SHOOTER NUMBERS ARE DROPPING – AND WHAT STILL NEEDS TO CHANGE 25:24

17d ago25:24

25:24

This week on Stop the Killing, we’re bringing you some rare and cautiously optimistic news. Former FBI agent Katherine Schweit breaks down the newly released FBI 2024 Active Shooter Report, and the headline is striking: 📉 A 50% decrease in active shooter incidents across the United States. But what does that really mean? Are prevention efforts work…

1
One Hand, One Heart, All Courage 39:46

20d ago39:46

39:46

Send us a text What happens when parents face the unexpected challenge of raising a child with different abilities? While some choose to run, others discover the most beautiful journey imaginable—one filled with unconditional love and unexpected lessons. In this raw and honest conversation, Victoria and Michael tackle the painful reality of abandon…

1
PTSD, Paper Cups, and Frozen Waffles TRIGGER WARNING 40:52

23d ago40:52

40:52

Send us a text The weight of trauma is perhaps best explained through a powerful metaphor: imagine holding a paper coffee cup. For a minute, it's nothing—lightweight, manageable. After an hour, it feels heavier. After days without putting it down, your muscles lock in place, exhausted from carrying something that initially seemed insignificant. Thi…

1
BONUS: BLOODSHED BADDIES x STOP THE KILLING 30:22

24d ago30:22

30:22

BONUS: BLOODSHED BADDIES x STOP THE KILLING In this bonus episode, we're sharing a conversation originally recorded for the Bloodshed Baddies podcast—where our very own Katherine Schweit joins Lex and Sam for an unfiltered, fascinating, and sometimes funny deep dive into her career and mission. From her early days in journalism to becoming the FBI’…

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S3-E14 Podcast Reviews: Summer Staycation Ear Candy for Lounging, Napping and Entertainment 25:57

26d ago25:57

25:57

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Podcast Reviews to enhance your best staycation ever! Light Horror, a mass hysterical event, human foibles and gossip, and noise-blocking color sounds for uninterrupted sleep. As dedicated podcast explorers, we immerse ourselves in hundreds of shows across the spectrum so y…

1
Breaking Free: Stories of Domestic Abuse Survival TRIGGER WARNING 44:07

1M ago44:07

44:07

Send us a text https://acontagioussmile.mn.co/ Breaking free from the chains of domestic violence takes more than courage—it requires strategy, support, and hope. This raw, powerful episode features survivors sharing the methods they used to escape abusive relationships while living under the constant surveillance of their abusers. From creative fi…

1
S5 B3 CANCER, BOOK RELEASE, LIVERPOOL CAR ATTACK 49:02

1M ago49:02

49:02

Season 5 – BONUS 3: CANCER UPDATE, BOOK RELEASE, LIVERPOOL ATTACK This bonus episode of Stop the Killing is a deeply personal and powerful one. 🎧 Sarah shares her stage 4 cancer diagnosis and how she's navigating life on a new form of targeted therapy that’s giving her quality of life and a surprising amount of hope.📘 Katherine unveils her brand-ne…

1
S3-E13 Podcast Reviews for Family Road Trips! 31:45

1M ago31:45

31:45

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Podcast Reviews for Summer Vacations on the road. Have you ever weathered the storm of siblings at war in your backseat while trying to enjoy the open road? Your summer road trip salvation has arrived. This episode tackles the universal parenting challenge of keeping young …

1
The Cereal-Slurping Philosopher's Guide to Toxic Family Relations 42:10

2M ago42:10

42:10

Send us a text We're back after a three-week hiatus, and there's a good reason for our absence. Victoria has undergone two additional surgeries, including a spinal implant for her Complex Regional Pain Syndrome that has miraculously reduced her pain by over 80%. As she puts it with characteristic humor, "I really should get free HBO at this point w…

1
S3-E12 Interview: Psychic Medium, Relationship Expert, and Spiritual Guide June Edward Shares Lessons from the Universe 23:00

2M ago23:00

23:00

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Discover your psychic abilities, mediumship, and love lessons we're all meant to learn while on earth. For psychic medium June Edward, a simple meditation session unleashed her abilities that she had suppressed since childhood — abilities we all possess to varying degrees. …

1
Breaking Free from Narcissistic Shadows Trigger Warning 58:06

2M ago58:06

58:06

Send us a text The overwhelming response to our podcast has shown us just how many people are silently struggling with the aftermath of narcissistic family dynamics. This episode dives deep into what it truly means to be the "black sheep" in a narcissistic family – not a flaw, but a superpower of truth-seeing that threatens those who rely on facade…

1
Breaking Through Darkness Trigger Warning 1:08:29

2M ago1:08:29

1:08:29

Send us a text What happens when the people who should love you most become your greatest source of pain? In this raw and unfiltered Q&A episode, Dana and Victoria tackle the toughest questions about narcissistic family relationships sent in by listeners desperately seeking answers. The conversation dives deep into the psychological warfare experie…

1
Navigating Parenthood Through Laughter 51:11

2M ago51:11

51:11

Send us a text Imagine a world where every special needs child feels like a superhero rather than someone who's different. That's exactly what we're creating with the Stucco Squad – our passion project unveiled in this heartfelt episode. After celebrating my husband's first colonoscopy (yes, really – and men, this is your sign to schedule yours!), …

1
S3-E11 Podcast Reviews: Tropical Island Crime, Dark Comedy, and Cautionary Tales 29:27

2M ago29:27

29:27

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Podcast. Reviews and recommendations! Summer Bucket lists are the best! Ready to embark on a podcast journey to three different tropical islands? In Season 3, Episode 11 of One Good Thing Media, host Jeryl Spear shares vacation-themed podcast adventures for perfect audio es…

1
Life After Abuse: The Reality of Justice Trigger Warning 59:01

2M ago59:01

59:01

Send us a text Support the showBy Victora Cuore; A Contagious Smile, Who Kicked First, Domestic Violence Survivor, Advocate, Motivational Coach, Special Needs, Abuse Support, Life Skill Classes, Special Needs Social Groups

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Life Beyond the Trauma Trigger Warning 1:08:29

2M ago1:08:29

1:08:29

Send us a text Support the showBy Victora Cuore; A Contagious Smile, Who Kicked First, Domestic Violence Survivor, Advocate, Motivational Coach, Special Needs, Abuse Support, Life Skill Classes, Special Needs Social Groups

1
Surviving the Narcissist's Web Trigger Warning 1:15:48

2M ago1:15:48

1:15:48

Send us a text When a narcissist targets you for abuse, they reserve a special kind of cruelty that no one else sees. This powerful episode pulls back the curtain on narcissistic abuse through raw, firsthand accounts that validate what countless survivors experience behind closed doors. Dana and her co-host courageously share their personal journey…

1
When Narcissists Strike Back Trigger Warning 45:07

2M ago45:07

45:07

Send us a text The unexpected viral success of our podcast has revealed a disturbing truth: millions of people recognize the nightmare of narcissistic abuse. While gratified to reach so many, we're heartbroken that our stories resonate with such a vast audience. This episode takes a dark turn as we explore the shocking reality of narcissistic retal…

1
S3-E10 Interview: “I Married a Narcissist” Interview with Relationship Expert Dana S. Diaz 41:10

2M ago41:10

41:10

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Relationships: Narcissistic Spouses, Friends, Co-workers, and Relatives: What keeps intelligent, capable people trapped in relationships with narcissists? Dana Diaz discovered the answer through her painful journey—a 25-year marriage to a man whose charm masked a pattern of…

1
Navigating Teen Mental Health: A Parent-Child Conversation with Humor and Heart 36:35

2M ago36:35

36:35

Send us a text The unfiltered wisdom of teens takes center stage in this refreshingly honest conversation about youth mental health. When our teenage guests Kinsley and Faith join the podcast, they waste no time delivering hard truths about what young people actually need from the adults in their lives. "Maybe not hound them so much about a couple …

1
Scars and Stars: Finding Self-Worth After Narcissistic Abuse Trigger Warning 1:08:29

2M ago1:08:29

1:08:29

Send us a text What does it mean to heal after narcissistic abuse? In this raw, unfiltered Q&A episode, Dana and Victoria tackle the questions that keep survivors up at night—from handling others' judgment to finding self-worth when everyone around you has tried to strip it away. "I don't have to prove anything to anybody," Victoria asserts when ad…

1
Breaking Free: Finding Joy After Trauma Trigger Warning 45:54

2M ago45:54

45:54

Send us a text Support the showBy Victora Cuore; A Contagious Smile, Who Kicked First, Domestic Violence Survivor, Advocate, Motivational Coach, Special Needs, Abuse Support, Life Skill Classes, Special Needs Social Groups

1
Breaking Free: From Survival to Thriving Trigger Warning 45:54

2M ago45:54

45:54

Send us a text Support the showBy Victora Cuore; A Contagious Smile, Who Kicked First, Domestic Violence Survivor, Advocate, Motivational Coach, Special Needs, Abuse Support, Life Skill Classes, Special Needs Social Groups

1
S3-E9 Mystery Week: Discover Gripping Whodunits to Amplify Your Mystery Playlist! 22:53

2M ago22:53

22:53

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Mystery week! Host Jeryl Spear covers compelling mysteries that will keep you on the edge of your seat. • Sequestered podcast told from the perspective of juror #11, Sarah Reed, who shares her experience during a high-profile Tennessee murder trial where she was completely …

1
The Narcissist's Immunity: Why They Never Seem to Suffer TRIGGER WARNING 1:03:15

2M ago1:03:15

1:03:15

Send us a text Support the showBy Victora Cuore; A Contagious Smile, Who Kicked First, Domestic Violence Survivor, Advocate, Motivational Coach, Special Needs, Abuse Support, Life Skill Classes, Special Needs Social Groups

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S3-E8 Interview: IBLP Duggar Cult Survivor Speaks Out About Female Abuse, Eye Traps, and Much More 30:50

2M ago30:50

30:50

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Interview: Escaping the cult embraced by the Duggar family. What happens when your entire childhood is controlled by religious extremism? Amanda Briggs takes us behind the curtain of the Institute of Basic Life Principles (IBLP)—the same cult featured in the Duggar family's…

1
Beyond Limits: The Remarkable Journey of America's First Amputee Motorcycle Cop 56:29

3M ago56:29

56:29

Send us a text Mark Wright's story redefines what's possible after traumatic injury. As the first amputee motorcycle officer in United States history, Mark demonstrates that our physical limitations are often far less restrictive than our mental ones. When Mark crashed his motorcycle after a late-night shift, hitting a disabled vehicle with no ligh…

1
S3-E7 Podcast Reviews and Recommendations: Autistics and Telepathy; Teen TikTokers Solve Crime; Soap Operas and the Podverse; Long Lost Podcast Returns; Much More! 32:35

3M ago32:35

32:35

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” True Crime, Telepathy, Paranormal Games; New podcasts! Host Jeryl Spear delves into the extraordinary world of podcasts that explore telepathic communication in non-speaking autistic individuals, true crime solved by teenage TikTokers, and fiction that blurs the line betwee…

1
The Narcissist's Playbook: How They Hurt Those Who Only Want to Love TRIGGER WARNING 56:37

3M ago56:37

56:37

Send us a text The pollen count is high and so are the emotions in this raw, unfiltered conversation between Victoria and Michael. Between sneezes and watery eyes, they dive into the grueling realities of advocacy work—the sleepless nights, endless paperwork, and emotional toll that comes with fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves. Vic…

1
From Gasping to Breathing: How Leaving Narcissists Transforms Your Health and Happiness TRIGGER 44:37

3M ago44:37

44:37

Send us a text Take a deep breath with us as we explore the transformation that awaits beyond toxic relationships. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, we step away from the heaviness of narcissistic abuse to focus on something equally important. This beautiful life exists on the other side of healing. One host shares her harrowing health journey,…

1
Pass the Skittles and Hide Your Shoes: Adventures with ALL of Us Including Abby 46:35

3M ago46:35

46:35

Send us a text Ever wondered what happens when you throw together a redhead, a redneck, and a family dynamic that thrives on elaborate pranks? This raw, unfiltered episode takes you straight into the chaotic heart of family relationships where shoes get thrown in restaurant parking lots and trucks become canvases for bird droppings and marshmallows…

1
S3-E6 Interview With a Sex Worker: Annie Temple's Journey from Erotic Masseuse to Creative Entrepreneur 32:42

3M ago32:42

32:42

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Interview! Ready to challenge your assumptions about sex work and gain business insights from an unexpected source? Erotic Masseuse Annie Temple opens up about her 20-year journey through the adult entertainment industry in this eye-opening conversation with host Jeryl Spea…

1
The Road to Healing is Paved with Self-Love and Setting Boundaries 44:37

3M ago44:37

44:37

Send us a text Taking a deep breath becomes an act of revolution after escaping narcissistic abuse. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Faith and Dana step away from their usual format to share profound insights about life after abuse—and why that journey is worth every difficult step. Faith arrives emotionally drained from six days of intense ad…

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S3-E5 Podcast News and Reviews: Stalkers, Survivors, Supernatural Beings, and Much More! 34:19

3M ago34:19

34:19

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” True Crime, horror, and exceptional new podcast recommendations! From the haunting depths of forgotten asylum graves and the terror of being held hostage in Haiti, to two cyber stalkers who finally got their comeuppance, we're spotlighting the most compelling podcasts of 20…

1
When Men Are Survivors: Redefining Domestic Abuse Beyond Gender Stereotypes 50:50

3M ago50:50

50:50

Send us a text Every survivor deserves a voice—regardless of gender. When Michael witnessed his wife Victoria's domestic violence advocacy work up close for the first time, it sparked a raw, necessary conversation about who abuse affects and how cycles can be broken. Victoria pulls back the curtain on her nearly two decades as an advocate, showing …

1
Put Down Your Phone and Pick Up the Conversation 51:11

3M ago51:11

51:11

Send us a text Heartfelt celebrations and serious conversations collide in this candid episode where we start by toasting Michael's first colonoscopy (yes, really!) and the clean bill of health that followed. It's a perfect reminder that sometimes the most uncomfortable moments become our greatest gifts to those we love - as Michael puts it, "I wan…

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A Contagious Smile: Ken Kunkin's Journey of Resilience After Spinal Cord Injury 34:06

3M ago34:06

34:06

Send us a text https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Things-Never-Kunken-Story/dp/1946074411/ref=sr_1_1?crid=I0A7ECUBICVQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vAMrAnYnj9uBVExYnQAqxQ.TbIaGSb-nuHCxGomqQSS7iGt-mmIv_mqDBOLqKob1oM&dib_tag=se&keywords=ken+kunken+story&qid=1742781695&sprefix=ken+ku%2Caps%2C129&sr=8-1 The moment Ken Kunkin made that fateful tackle during a Cornell Uni…

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S3-E4 Podcast News and True Crime Reviews: Kid Sleuth Solves a Murder, Patient With Locked-In Syndrome Witnesses Shocking Crimes, and More Shows Sure to Satisfy Inquisitive Minds! 30:18

4M ago30:18

30:18

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” True crime and suspense podcast reviews! In this episode, we search the vast digital landscape to discover exceptional podcasts that showcase human resilience, justice served, and naming lost souls. This episode features five compelling podcasts that will expand your listen…

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When Leaving Is the Only Option: A Survival Guide TRIGGER WARNING 1:20:15

4M ago1:20:15

1:20:15

Send us a text Financial abuse remains one of the most powerful yet least understood tactics used by abusers to maintain control. In this raw, emotional conversation, two survivors share their hard-earned strategies for financially preparing to escape dangerous relationships. The hosts reveal detailed methods that helped them break free—from gettin…

1
Captain Jack, Socks, and Service Dogs: Life's Unexpected Heroes 44:47

4M ago44:47

44:47

Send us a text When Malcolm Goodwin reached out to thank Victoria for saving his friend's life, it reinforced exactly why the Contagious Smile podcast exists. "I'm not looking for praise or notoriety," Victoria shares with raw honesty. "When I went through this and was laying on the floor bleeding, not wanting to get up, I wished someone could say …

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The Gift of Giving: Celebrating Life, Love, and New Beginnings 55:02

4M ago55:02

55:02

Send us a text In this heartfelt episode, It's a colorful tapestry woven from laughter, memories, and the anticipation of what lies ahead. We discuss the nuances of gifting experiences over material items and reflect on what it means to prioritize relationships and shared moments. We also introduce an upcoming Podcast-a-thon aimed at supporting the…

1
The Giving Journey: From Personal Healing to Global Impact 42:03

4M ago42:03

42:03

Send us a text What does it mean to transform personal trauma into a mission that uplifts others? Join Victoria and Michael as they unveil several groundbreaking initiatives designed to create safe spaces for those who need them most. The excitement is palpable as Victoria announces their podcast-a-thon benefiting Give Kids the World, an extraordin…

1
A Family's Unconventional Journey: From Trauma to Triumph TRIGGER WARNING 33:52

4M ago33:52

33:52

Send us a text Victoria and Michael open the doors to their new passion project, the "Stucco Squad" – a vibrant, supportive community designed specifically for children with special needs. Named after their service dog (who was in turn named after Victoria's law enforcement nickname), this initiative creates a space where extraordinary kids can con…

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S3-E3 Podcast Reviews and Recommendations: Discover New Shows by Monica Lewinsky and Payne Lindsay, Real-life Haunted Mortuaries, and Much More! 32:36

4M ago32:36

32:36

Howdy! Send us a text to share what you’re listening to, or just say, “Hi!” Podcast Reviews and Recommendations to expand your eclectic playlist! Host Jeryl Spear highlights key insights, emotional narratives, and the journey of discovery within the podcast universe while aiming to enrich your audio experience. • Featured podcast: "Skirting Danger"…

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Unpacking Podcasting Success: A Journey of Growth 43:51

4M ago43:51

43:51

Send us a text Ready to take your podcasting journey to the next level? Join us as we unveil the strategies that have launched our show into the top 1% globally! This episode is packed with invaluable insights into niche selection, content creation, and behind-the-scenes looks at what it takes to grow an audience. Discover the tools that can stream…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Survivors Guide To True Crime Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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