Buried Bones - a historical true crime podcast with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes
Exactly Right and iHeartPodcasts
On Buried Bones, journalist Kate Winkler Dawson and retired investigator Paul Holes dissect some of history’s most compelling true crime cases from centuries ago. Together, they explore these very old cases through a 21st century lens. With their years of expertise and knowledge of modern forensics, they reflect on how far science has come and bring new insight to old mysteries.
Together, Kate and Paul have examined many cases including the 1932 Lindbergh baby kidnapping, the first time fingerprinting was used as evidence in a courtroom and a possible serial killer in 1960s Nashville. They ask, was the right person convicted or was someone wrongfully accused?
See pictures, diagrams and evidence from each case on Instagram @buriedbonespod.
Buried Bones is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including true crime, comedic interviews, news, science, pop culture and more. The network is home to My Favorite Murder hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, This Podcast Will Kill You, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, Tenfold More Wicked and more.
Together, Kate and Paul have examined many cases including the 1932 Lindbergh baby kidnapping, the first time fingerprinting was used as evidence in a courtroom and a possible serial killer in 1960s Nashville. They ask, was the right person convicted or was someone wrongfully accused?
See pictures, diagrams and evidence from each case on Instagram @buriedbonespod.
Buried Bones is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including true crime, comedic interviews, news, science, pop culture and more. The network is home to My Favorite Murder hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, This Podcast Will Kill You, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, Tenfold More Wicked and more.
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 51min
Murder on the Range PT 2
Dive into the grim depths of 1863 Colorado, where violent murders shake the Gold Rush community. Explore the psychological motivations behind a series of coordinated attacks and the miraculous survival of a witness. Discover how tensions from land disputes lead prospectors to form a militia, creating a complex web of justice and vengeance. Follow the Espinosa brothers on their chaotic quest for retribution, revealing the darker sides of humanity and the relentless pursuit of justice in a lawless era.
7 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 56min
Murder on the Range PT 1
A journey to Colorado during western expansion reveals the dark secrets behind a single murder linked to numerous others. The hosts blend humor with history, discussing hairstyles from the 80s and the implications of the Civil War on crime. Intriguing tales of Franklin Bruce's mysterious death and the brutal attack on Henry Harkins present a chilling view of violence in remote areas. The investigation of murders unfolds through environmental clues, hinting at financial desperation and complex motives behind each crime.
17 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 7min
Railroad Ties
Dive into the chilling world of late 1890s New York, where a train conductor's grim discovery sets off a gripping investigation. Explore the tragic story of a missing teenage girl, Sarah, uncovering dark family secrets and community responses. The podcast raises intriguing questions about the nature of her death—accident, suicide, or murder? Fascinating insights into historical forensics and societal norms enrich the narrative, making it a captivating tale filled with mystery and complexity.
10 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 3min
Portrait of a Predator PT 2
Dive into the haunting world of a serial predator terrorizing Long Island in the late 60s and early 70s. The chilling activities of a killer are examined, highlighting the complexities of his targets, particularly sex workers. Experience the gritty backdrop of Times Square's past as it became a hunting ground. Psychological insights reveal the dark motivations and behaviors of criminals while exploring the stark contrast of their double lives. This exploration sheds light on the victims, the justice system, and the ethics surrounding true crime storytelling.
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 6min
Portrait of a Predator PT 1
In a gripping journey to 1960s Long Island, the hosts explore a chilling series of murders that unveil a complex profile of a predator. They dive into the tragic case of dance instructor Diane Cusick, revealing the evolution of forensic science in solving such crimes. The discussion shifts to troubling disappearances and the unsettling vulnerability of public spaces. Each story intertwines personal narratives with broader societal impacts, all while setting the stage for the suspenseful continuation of these intertwined cases.
12 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 1min
Murdered Maiden
Journey back to 1875 New Hampshire as a young girl goes missing, igniting frantic search efforts in the dark woods. Discover the tragic case of 17-year-old Josie, whose horrifying murder reveals dark psychological insights into criminal behavior. The investigation unearths disturbing patterns of predation and the chilling reality of community vigilance in the face of violence. Amidst the emotional tales, themes of resilience and the struggle for justice highlight the impact of true crime on families and communities.
7 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 54min
Prime Time Crime PT 2
Delve into a gripping 1978 Arizona murder investigation as unexpected suspects arise. Explore the tangled web surrounding the unsolved death of entertainer Bob Crane, revealing shocking motives and complex relationships. The discussion highlights forensic missteps and challenges in evidence collection that still resonate today. Uncover how evolving investigative techniques influence the resolution of crime, showcasing the struggle between past practices and modern technological advancements.
10 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 55min
Prime Time Crime PT 1
Travel back to 1978 Scottsdale, Arizona, where a shocking murder scene unfolds involving aspiring actress Victoria Berry. The hosts weave captivating tales of personal anecdotes and nostalgic memories of the 70s. Dive into the bizarre complexities of Bob Crane's infamous murder, revealing chilling forensic details and the failures of law enforcement in the investigation. As they unpack the glamorous yet grim context of these true crime stories, listeners are left questioning the dark underbelly of fame and the nature of justice.
9 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 1h 3min
Lethal in the Hay
Travel back to 1931 England, where a college student's shocking death sparks an intense investigation led by a legendary figure. A mysterious hayfield fire conceals clues, and the discovery of a stopped watch raises questions about foul play. The exploration of historic forensic methods reveals stark contrasts with today's practices. With intriguing theories of suicide, accident, or murder looming, the hosts unravel the emotional and societal implications behind the enigmatic case, leaving listeners captivated by the twists and tales of true crime history.
12 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 50min
Parallels PT 2
Dive into chilling historical true crime as the hosts unravel the unsolved murder of Nancy Benilak in 1970. They analyze eerie parallels in investigations and explore how blood evidence can exclude suspects. The mysterious disappearance of Judith raises questions about her abduction, while advancements in forensic genealogy highlight breakthroughs in cold cases. The psychological profiles of offenders reveal unsettling patterns, making for a captivating blend of detective work, crime history, and human behavior.
