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 forensic 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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 26, 2025 • 46min
The Wolf Family Murder PT 1
A 1920s North Dakota farmhouse hides a gruesome secret, discovered by a keen neighbor. Intriguing tales of personal outdoor experiences are woven in, contrasted against the darker historical shadows of the Wolf family tragedy. As investigators piece together evidence from a shocking double homicide, the survival of an infant adds a haunting twist. The challenges of 1920s law enforcement and the emotional ramifications of crime are explored, revealing layers of sorrow and complexity within this haunting case.
Mar 19, 2025 • 51min
Missing Pieces PT 2
In a gripping conclusion, the podcast delves into a 1945 Canadian murder case that shocks a nation. Listeners uncover dark secrets involving dismemberment and infidelity, as a second body found in a suitcase raises chilling questions. The emotional turmoil faced by families reveals the profound stigma tied to notorious crimes. Forensic insights unravel psychological complexities, while the tumultuous trial highlights media bias and the moral dilemmas of justice. It's a haunting exploration of guilt, loyalty, and the intricate web of crime.
Mar 12, 2025 • 50min
Missing Pieces PT 1
Discover the chilling tale of a dismembered torso found in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1946. The hosts unravel the dark details surrounding the victim's identity and the family ties that complicate the investigation. Delve into the unsettling dynamics of a troubled marriage, exploring the motivations behind John and Evelyn's union. As mysteries unfold, the stories of violence and emotional turmoil intertwine, raising questions about love, legacy, and the lengths people go to conceal the truth.
10 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 57min
Cut Down
Travel back to 1922 London, where a night out turns deadly for a young couple. Discover the complexities of Edith and Percy’s relationship amid a gruesome stabbing. Explore blood patterns, witness discrepancies, and the emotional aftermath of trauma. The narrative dives into a love triangle filled with betrayal and legal challenges, questioning the validity of evidence in their murder convictions. The hosts blend humor with chilling details, offering a unique take on true crime and the intricacies of justice.
8 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 57min
Beast of Burden
Travel back to 1889 Iowa, where a bloody mystery unfolds with a young witness at its center. Discover the horrifying double homicide of the Elkins family and the chilling forensic details that hint at hidden motives. Delve into the troubled upbringing of Wesley, the son, who becomes a shocking perpetrator. Explore the intricate dynamics of family turmoil, psychological influences, and the complexities of juvenile crime. This gripping tale intertwines historical tragedy with the haunting questions of violence and mental health.
12 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 1h
The Hot Seat
Journey back to 1976 Phoenix, where investigative journalism takes a deadly turn. A reporter faces a life-threatening attack that unearths deep corruption. Explore the dangers faced by toxicologists and journalists dedicated to truth. Examine a vintage Datsun tied to a catastrophic bombing and the forensic clues it holds. Discover the shocking implications of organized crime and the tragic fate of journalist Don Bowles. Dive into a world where telling the truth can have dangerous consequences, layered with personal stories and professional insights.
11 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 51min
Passing Notes PT 2
A gripping tale unfolds as Paul and Kate delve into the 1975 kidnapping of 17-year-old Leslie Whittle. They discuss the frantic 51-day search, filled with cryptic clues and unsettling evidence. Forensic analysis sheds light on connections between crimes, showcasing advancements in crime-solving. The chilling details surrounding Leslie's murder reveal the tragic stories of both victims and criminals. Throughout, the evolution of forensic science is highlighted, illustrating how past methods have paved the way for modern techniques in unraveling dark mysteries.
Jan 29, 2025 • 51min
Passing Notes PT 1
In 1975 England, a young heiress is kidnapped under bizarre circumstances. The ransom demands put her family in a precarious position, exposing the psychological warfare at play. A violent confrontation involving a security guard unveils deeper connections to the abduction. The investigation's tension escalates as chilling taped messages manipulate the victim's family. Additionally, evidence found in a suspect's car hints at a broader crime spree, weaving a complex web of danger and intrigue.
Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 11min
Razor’s Edge
Travel back to 1921 Portland, where the chaotic murder of a father unfolds amidst flawed forensic science. Eyewitness accounts raise doubts about their accuracy, revealing the challenges of memory under stress. Delve into the forensic details behind a fatal neck wound and the controversial arrest of a woman entangled in a web of sensationalism. Explore courtroom drama surrounding key witness credibility and the murky truths of evidence. Amidst it all, enjoy a humorous dive into whiskey's dark past in medicinal practices.
28 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 50min
The Nun’s Skeleton PT 2
Dive back into the chilling case of Sister Kathy Sesnick, a nun whose tragic murder in 1969 reveals deep-rooted institutional abuse. The testimony of a local student raises questions about the reliability of recovered memories. Discover the tangled connections to key suspects, including Father Maskell, and hear about the emotional struggles of the survivors from Archbishop Keogh school. The discussion also touches on the ethics of true crime storytelling, aiming for a respectful narrative that honors victims and their stories.
