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
24 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 1h 2min
The Nun’s Skeleton PT 1
Delve into the chilling disappearance of Sister Kathy Sesnick, who vanished under mysterious circumstances in 1969. The hosts dissect unreliable witness accounts and the intricate dynamics within the Catholic institution. Explore Sister Kathy's last known moments and the puzzling timeline of her activities, raising unsettling questions about her fate. The investigation reveals potential suspects and alarming connections to a deeper pattern of disappearances, revealing layers of systemic issues that haunt this cold case.
Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 3min
The Christmas Mystery
In a chilling tale from Christmas Eve 1945, a family's holiday joy is shattered by a mysterious fire. A mix of arson clues and political tension paints a grim picture of the times. As suspicion rises and chaos ensues, children grow wary of a lurking threat. The investigation reveals heartbreaking losses and community skepticism about how the police handled the tragedy. This captivating story intertwines festive traditions with the dark realities of a true crime that still echoes today.
15 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 54min
Out of Focus PT 2
In this second part of a two-parter, Kate and Paul return to 1958 Los Angeles where a serial killer is terrorizing local women. After the suspect encounters a truly heroic individual, the tide turns in the investigation. Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promotions at this link: https://bit.ly/4buCoMc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 55min
Out of Focus PT 1
Travel back to late 1950s Los Angeles as a young model mysteriously vanishes after a photo shoot, sparking fears of a serial killer. Explore the impact of sensationalism in true crime media, alongside anecdotes about parenting and the delicate balance of communication with teens. Delve into the urgency of missing person cases, highlighting the importance of swift action and technological advancements like geofencing. The suspicious circumstances surrounding Judy's disappearance weave a gripping narrative filled with trust issues and community reactions.
Nov 20, 2024 • 57min
Last Supper
In 1871 Richland Center, a dinner party turns deadly when guests experience a mysterious illness. Suspicions of food poisoning arise as tensions escalate among the attendees. Historical insights reveal the use of toxic substances like strychnine in Victorian society, showcasing the complexities of criminal motives. The investigation unveils jealousy and possible foul play, while also highlighting the evolving landscape of forensic science. The narrative captures the dark twists of fate that intertwine personal relations and tragedy in a seemingly ordinary gathering.
Nov 13, 2024 • 52min
The Three Emmas
Travel back to 1914 San Antonio, where a wealthy brewery owner's love triangle leads to intrigue and murder. Discover the tangled relationships between Otto, his bedridden wife, and their young nurse, Emmy, amid cultural shifts. Delve into the emotional turmoil and motives behind shocking actions, as well as the role of forensic advancements in unraveling such mysteries. The gripping narrative reveals how complex personal connections can spiral into betrayal and tragedy, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Oct 30, 2024 • 48min
Vanished PT 2
Dive into the chilling unresolved case of Joan Risch, a mother who vanished in 1961, leaving behind a blood-soaked scene. Explore the intricate trail of blood that leads to critical questions about the crime. Uncover conflicting witness accounts and eerie sightings that add depth to the mystery. Investigate theories ranging from foul play to unsettling personal circumstances as modern forensic techniques grapple with historic evidence. Join the hosts as they peel back layers of intrigue and tragedy surrounding this enigmatic disappearance.
Oct 23, 2024 • 50min
Vanished PT 1
Journey back to 1961 Lincoln, Massachusetts, where a stay-at-home mother's sudden disappearance turns a seemingly normal day into a mystery. A blood-soaked kitchen sets the stage for intrigue, highlighting the vulnerabilities of domestic life. Explore the challenges of interviewing child witnesses and how shifting gender roles affect victim narratives. Unravel the complexities of crime scene analysis, forensic fingerprints, and the eerie connections between past and present investigative techniques. The suspense builds as the mystery deepens.
Oct 16, 2024 • 1h 3min
Cry For Help
Travel back to 1917 Springfield, Missouri, where a wealthy couple's night out turns into a nightmare when their baby goes missing. The story unfolds through the fierce investigation led by bloodhounds and authorities, revealing unsettling trends in child abductions. Explore emotional ransoms and the psychological impacts on victims' families, while learning about strategic crime in the Ozarks. A heart-wrenching search leads to a tragic discovery, showcasing the delicate balance between safety and the dark realities of crime.
Oct 9, 2024 • 51min
St. Aubin Street Massacre PT 2
Dive into the chilling 1929 St. Aubin Street Massacre in Detroit, uncovering the complexities of a cold case with limited forensic evidence. Explore early blood testing techniques and their pitfalls, and theorize about the Black Hand's potential involvement. Analyze the psychology behind home invasions and the unsettling mindset of violent offenders. Delve into the manipulative dynamics of cult leaders, revealing how their influence can lead to familial murder and violence, rounding out a discussion that blends history with haunting implications.
