The Lab Detective | Tortoise Investigates
The Observer
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.The full series is available to listen now. Our thanks to The Francis Crick Institute for sharing recordings and insights. You can watch a short documentary on the genomics team behind Kathleen Folbigg's case filmed at the Crick.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 ParrTo 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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
14 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 35min
Myths and monsters | The Lab Detective Ep4
Carola Vinuesa, a geneticist involved in notable cases like Kathleen Folbigg's, and Katerina Bakoyani, an investigative journalist from Athens, dive deep into the tragic case of Roula Pispirigou, accused of murdering her three children. They discuss the flaws in the police investigation and the potential for genetic testing to challenge her conviction. The conversation highlights how media portrayal influences public opinion and raises critical questions about justice and the role of scientific evidence in the courtroom.
24 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 34min
Science versus the law | The Lab Detective Ep3
Carola Vinuesa, a scientist at The Francis Crick Institute, shares her groundbreaking work that applies genetic discoveries in legal settings. She discusses the heart-wrenching case of Kathleen Folbigg, who was wrongfully imprisoned for her children's deaths. As new genetic evidence emerges, Vinuesa highlights the emotional turmoil intertwined with the legal battle for justice. Listeners are taken through a poignant journey of hope, healing, and the critical need for scientific accountability in the courtroom.
Jul 22, 2025 • 38min
The eureka moment | The Lab Detective Ep2
Kathleen Folbigg is just trying to survive. She’s a grieving mother, sentenced to life in jail for killing her four infant children. That is, until a small group of people start to question whether she might be the victim of a terrible miscarriage of justice.Our thanks to The Francis Crick Institute for sharing recordings and insights. Reporter: Rachel SylvesterProducer: Gary MarshallMusic supervisor: Karla PatellaSound design: Rowan BishopPodcast artwork: Lola WilliamsExecutive producer: Basia Cummings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 22, 2025 • 40min
Three is murder | The Lab Detective Ep1
Journalist Rachel Sylvester investigates the case of 'Australia's worst serial killer'. And discovers, in a story about mothers who have been accused of murdering their own children, there is one man who connects them all: a doctor called Roy Meadow.Our thanks to The Francis Crick Institute for sharing recordings and insights. Reporter: Rachel SylvesterProducer: Gary MarshallMusic supervisor: Karla PatellaSound design: Rowan BishopPodcast artwork: Lola WilliamsExecutive producer: Basia Cummings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.The full series is available to listen now. 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 ParrOur thanks to The Francis Crick Institute for sharing recordings and insights.Watch a short documentary on the genomics team behind Kathleen Folbigg's case filmed at the CrickTo 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 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.
