Wicked Words - A True Crime Talk Show with Kate Winkler Dawson

Kate Summerscale, author of The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher, tells the story of a brutal murder in Victorian England and the famous detective who tried to solve it. Topics include the suspicious nature of the case, the abusive family patriarch, child labor in factories, the impact of class and power on detective investigations, and the various theories and suspects involved. Lessons learned from crime fiction and true crime stories are also explored.

Guest Benjamin Gilmer, a doctor, takes over a clinic in North Carolina and discovers he is the second Dr. Gilmer, following the first Dr. Gilmer who murdered his father. The podcast discusses the troubled upbringing of the first Dr. Gilmer, the challenges in presenting important evidence and witnesses during his trial, the potential impact of abuse claims on the outcome, and the struggles of giving hope to an incarcerated person.

Author Jax Miller discusses her book Hell in the Heartland, which tells the story of a terrible crime in rural Oklahoma: two parents murdered and two teen girls missing. The podcast explores themes of grief, trauma, police corruption, and the search for justice. It also discusses potential suspects, lack of media attention, new leads, and the emotional impact of crime journalism.

Amit Katwala, an expert on lie detectors, discusses their controversial origins, connection to deception and abuse, and their role in confessions and manipulation. The podcast explores the initial reaction to lie detector machines, the animosity between their creators, the misuse of the machines, and the doubts surrounding their reliability and impact on criminal cases.

Author Katherine Corcoran discusses the murder of a groundbreaking reporter in Mexico and the dangers faced by journalists in the country. The podcast explores the mysterious circumstances of the murder, potential government and cartel involvement, and the pressure to solve the case. It also highlights the lasting impact of the reporter's work on journalism in Mexico.

Richard White, an author and Stanford Professor, discusses the troubled legacy and mysterious death of Jane Stanford, co-founder of Stanford University. Topics covered include the complicated history of Jane Stanford, the financial challenges faced by Stanford University, proposed reforms that threatened the survival of the university, a near miss with poisoned water, the aftermath of Jane Stanford's death, and the hidden secrets of her life.

When a powerful businessman in Alaska is murdered in his bed in 1953, the police believe that it might have been a break-in gone wrong. But as details about his personal life made headlines, investigators turned to several new suspects. Author James T. Bartlett discusses the potential motives at the center of this story.  Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promotions at this link: https://bit.ly/4dsqzI1Buy my books: katewinklerdawson.com  If you have suggestions for historical crimes that could use some attention, email me: info@tenfoldmorewicked.com  Follow me on social: @tenfoldmore (Twitter) / @tenfoldmorewicked (Facebook and Instagram)  2023 All Rights Reserved  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liliana Rivera Garza lived in Mexico and journaled everything about her life until she was murdered. Her sister, author Cristina Rivera Garza, looked for clues inside Liliana’s diaries and letters. Determined to figure out what happened, Garza talks about her search for her sister’s killer.   Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promotions at this link: https://bit.ly/4dsqzI1Buy my books: katewinklerdawson.com  If you have suggestions for historical crimes that could use some attention, email me: info@tenfoldmorewicked.com  Follow me on social: @tenfoldmore (Twitter) / @tenfoldmorewicked (Facebook and Instagram)  2023 All Rights Reserved  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 1840s, an Irish family lived in constant turmoil after starting a feud with their entire town in Canada. When tensions rose in the town, the family’s lives were put at risk. Author John Little tells the story about the Black Donnelly tragedy. Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promotions at this link: https://bit.ly/4dsqzI1Buy my books: katewinklerdawson.com  If you have suggestions for historical crimes that could use some attention, email me: info@tenfoldmorewicked.com  Follow me on social: @tenfoldmore (Twitter) / @tenfoldmorewicked (Facebook and Instagram) 2023 All Rights Reserved  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author Jamie Gehring discusses living next door to the Unabomber, their initial friendly interactions, and the deteriorating relationship. Exploring Ted's motivations, the complex intentions behind his actions, and the controversy and blowback after the release of Gehring's book.