
The Lab Detective | Tortoise Investigates
Introducing...The Lab DetectiveKathleen Folbigg experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder. She was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail. Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths. This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison. The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.Episodes 1 and 2 will be available to listen on 22nd July.To listen to the full series on 22nd July, subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts and Spotify or download the Tortoise app.Reporters: Rachel Sylvester Producer: Gary MarshallExecutive editor: Basia Cummings Music supervisor: Karla Patella Sound design: Rowan Bishop Artwork: Lola Williams Fact checking: Ada Barume and Madeline Parr To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Jul 15, 2025 • 4min
Introducing...The Lab Detective
Introducing...The Lab DetectiveKathleen Folbigg experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder. She was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail. Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths. This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison. The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.Episodes 1 and 2 will be available to listen on 22nd July.To listen to the full series on 22nd July, subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts and Spotify or download the Tortoise app.Reporters: Rachel Sylvester Producer: Gary MarshallExecutive editor: Basia Cummings Music supervisor: Karla Patella Sound design: Rowan Bishop Artwork: Lola Williams Fact checking: Ada Barume and Madeline Parr To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 12, 2025 • 4min
Introducing...The Wargame
Dive into a gripping simulation as experts role-play a Russian attack on the UK. Former ministers and military chiefs strategize national defense in a tense geopolitical climate. The bunker setting fuels lively discussions on vulnerabilities and response tactics. Can the UK withstand such a scenario? Discover insights and scenarios that challenge conventional thinking about security and defense.

Jun 6, 2025 • 3min
An update on the story | Lucky Boy
When Lucky Boy launched back in March, there was an important detail that didn't make it into the podcast, for legal reasons: the team had discovered that they weren’t the only people who had been investigating the allegations made by Gareth - the Metropolitan Police had been too. Now, reporter Chloe Hadjimatheou has an update.To find out more about The Observer: Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free content head to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 10, 2025 • 52min
Lucky Boys | Lucky Boy Ep4
Deep dive into the complexities of teacher-student relationships, exploring trust, silence, and emotional fallout. Hear personal stories of past abuse and the painful realities of betrayal faced by victims. Emotional confrontations arise from a tribunal hearing as inconsistencies emerge in testimonies. Reflect on societal double standards in relationships and the lasting impact of formative experiences. This thought-provoking narrative emphasizes the importance of breaking the silence around trauma and empowering victims to share their stories.

Mar 4, 2025 • 41min
The school | Lucky Boy Ep3
Chloe hears from a former teacher who seems to support what Gareth believes - that there was a cover-up. And it’s still going on today.You can find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.comReported and produced by: Chloe Hadjimatheou and Gary MarshallSound design: Hannah VarrallPodcast artwork: Lola WilliamsExecutive producer: Basia Cummings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

13 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 45min
The relationship | Lucky Boy Ep2
A gripping exploration of troubling memories unfolds as Gareth recalls his time at Christ College, questioning the reliability of his recollections. The podcast investigates a controversial teacher-student relationship, revealing societal silence and the urgent need for accountability. Reflections on changing norms challenge listeners to consider the complexities of consent and authority. The emotional turmoil and lingering impacts of hidden secrets resonate throughout, urging a dialogue on child protection and the role of educators in safeguarding students.

17 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 37min
Gareth | Lucky Boy Ep1
A man reflects on his teenage years, where he felt lucky for attracting his teacher's attention. But as he confronts the past, dark truths emerge, revealing the long-lasting effects of a troubling incident. Nostalgia intermingles with pain, as he navigates the complexities of innocence and desire. The discussion highlights societal biases surrounding sexual abuse and the importance of seeking validation. Meanwhile, humorous promotions provide a lighthearted contrast to the serious themes explored.

4 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 3min
Introducing...Lucky Boy
A teenage romance spirals into a tangled web of emotions and moral dilemmas. Gareth's innocent infatuation with his teacher leads him through a journey of loss and disillusionment. The narrative questions the fine line between victim and perpetrator in a school setting. With a blend of passion and regret, it delves into the complexities surrounding power dynamics and accountability in relationships. Prepare for a thought-provoking exploration of innocence, guilt, and the quest for justice.

Dec 16, 2024 • 8min
Introducing..Crime Junkie - MURDERED: JonBenet Ramsay
We are partnering with Audiochuck, so that we can continue to bring our listeners brilliant investigations like Elon's Spies. You can join Tortoise as a member to get early and ad-free access to new series and support our investigations at www.tortoisemedia.com/invite.Introducing...Crime Junkie - MURDERED: JonBenet Ramsay The morning after Christmas Day 1996, six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey was reported missing... only for her body to be discovered hours later in her family’s home. Nearly three decades later, the questions remain: What really happened that night? Who is responsible for her death? And why has this case gone unsolved for so long? For years, Ashley Flowers vowed never to cover this infamous case – unless she could hear directly from the Ramsey family. In this episode, Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat explore the chilling details of JonBenét’s case, the infamous ransom note, and the lingering theories surrounding the investigation. With exclusive insights from JonBenét’s father, John Ramsey, this is a story you won’t want to miss. Listen to the full episode here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

16 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 30min
A star is born | Elon's Spies Ep4
The podcast dives into the riveting atmosphere at Mar-a-Lago on election night, spotlighting Donald Trump's declaration about Elon Musk's rising star. It dissects Musk's troubled dynamic with the Biden administration, particularly after Tesla's snubbing at a crucial meeting. The conversation also explores how Musk's shifting political allegiances could reshape young voters' perspectives. The tension between billionaires and presidents takes center stage, highlighting the broader implications of their alliance amidst modern consumerism.