Listen On:
Apple | Spotify | YouTube | AmazonMusic | iHeartRadio
The Escape Pod Traumedy
A traumedy about the trials and tribulations of people in their journeys of “escape”.
Escape what, you ask? ALL the things!
From trauma, crime, and unhealthy family cycles, to traffic and good deeds not going unpunished.
Like we said—all the things!
(Just tune in…you’ll understand.)
Co-hosted by Charity Doyle and Karabeth Borresen --The Escape Pod aims to connect, educate, entertain, and humanize through the lens of lived experience.
Listen on:
Charity
If there’s a challenge to tackle or a heart to lift, Charity Doyle is usually in the thick of it with an idea (or five) ready to roll. Engineer by degree, leader by nature, Charity’s career has been a whirlwind tour from building water systems to building up people. She didn’t just help create OneHeart—she project-managed it into existence, then turned around and became its first CEO, steering the mission with equal parts grit and grace.
When she’s not dreaming up new ways to make communities stronger, Charity is busy founding startups like FOQUS, designed to help employers and jobseekers alike cut through the hiring noise—because everyone deserves a shot at meaningful employment. Her resume reads like a playlist of “let’s make things better,” from tutoring youth detainees to serving on executive boards in the health, professional student life, and entertainment industries.
You’ll find her in the EscapePod studio, too—mixing big laughs with big ideas, and making even the heaviest topics a little lighter. Whether she’s wrangling chaos or building a better world one human at a time, Charity brings the heart, the hustle, and a healthy dose of “let’s do this.” Buckle up: when Charity’s around, ordinary is never on the agenda.
KB
Karabeth "KB" joins the EscapePod studio alongside Charity on Season 2 to navigate the weird, wild, and often wounded stories of life with heart, humor, and a healthy dose of awkwardness.
KB wears many hats (and sometimes a headset): she’s the Brand & Marketing Director for OneHeart and its family of mission-driven ventures—including this podcast, HomeBrew Coffee Shop, and FOQUS, a smarter hiring platform. She’s been with OneHeart since day one, helping to shape its voice, share its impact, and spotlight the resilience of the humans it serves.
Known for her thoughtful creativity, overflowing optimism, and knack for finding the funny—even in the messy stuff—Karabeth is a natural storyteller and a relentless cheerleader for the underdog. She believes laughter really is medicine (second only to coffee), and she’s here to ask the questions, make you smile, and maybe even cry-laugh along the way.
Episodes
25 minutes ago
25 minutes ago
In this harrowing milestone episode, Charity unpacks one of the most shocking and heartbreaking cases to ever come through the foster care system—the murder of Lisa Knoefel, a dedicated social worker and loving mother, at the hands of the teen she brought into her home to protect.
What began as an act of compassion—taking in 16-year-old Sabrina Zunich, a girl with a traumatic past and severe mental health struggles—quickly twisted into something unimaginable. Grooming. Manipulation. A secret relationship. And a murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by the one person Lisa should have been able to trust: her husband, Kevin Knoefel.
Charity walks through Sabrina’s turbulent childhood, the psychological vulnerabilities that made her a target, the disturbing evolution of her relationship with Kevin, and the brutal 178-stab murder that shook Willoughby Hills, Ohio. This episode also highlights systemic failures in foster care, the red flags that were missed, and how a teenager in crisis was weaponized by a manipulative adult to destroy the very family trying to help her.
Episode Highlights
Lisa Knoefel’s passion for protecting children—and how it tragically cost her life
Sabrina’s childhood trauma: addiction, instability, neglect, and mental health struggles
The foster care statistics behind placement instability and teen vulnerability
How Sabrina initially thrived in the Knoefel home before the dynamic shifted
Early red flags: accusations of favoritism, emotional distancing, and inappropriate closeness with Kevin
The grooming trajectory: massages, sexual “jokes,” escalating boundaries, and Kevin planning a future with Sabrina
Kevin’s manipulation: coercing Sabrina with threats of suicide, love-bombing, and promises of a life together
The life insurance motive—$785,000—and the plan to stage a burglary
The chilling details of the murder: 178 stab wounds and a bent knife
Megan’s courageous 911 call and her attempt to stop the attack
Kevin’s suspicious behavior after the murder—calm demeanor, insurance paperwork, visiting Sabrina in jail
Sabrina’s eventual cooperation with police and the unraveling of the conspiracy
Trial outcomes:
Kevin Knoefel — Life in prison + 12 years
Sabrina Zunich — Life with parole eligibility in 30 years
The deep failures in foster care oversight and ignored warning signs
Where the surviving daughters and key figures are now
How a system meant to save Sabrina instead placed her in the worst possible home
Reflection
Lisa Knoefel spent her life protecting children. She opened her home to a teenager who desperately needed safety. And she was betrayed by the system she trusted and the man she loved.This case is a devastating reminder:When red flags are ignored, vulnerable people pay the highest price.
Resources & References
Daughter Gets Life in Foster Mom's Stabbing Death
Oxygen: Sabrina Zunich
State of Ohio Vs. Kevin Knoefel
$6.2 Million Awarded in Lisa Knoefel Murder Case
What You Need To Know About The Sabrina Zunich Case Ahead Of The Premiere Of 'Snapped: Behind Bars
The Tragic Murder of Lisa Knoefel
Relationship Details Revealed Between Husband, Foster Daughter
Lisa Knoefel Murder: How Did She Die? Who Killed Her?
Graphic Details of Woman’s Murder Come Out in Husband’s Trial
Man Manipulated Teenage Foster Daughter to Fatally Stab His Wife
Worth More Dead Than Alive
Sabrina Zunich Teen Killer Murders Foster Mother
'I Was Not Mentally There,' Woman Who Murdered Foster Mom at Foster Dad's Request Says in Prison Interview
40 Foster Children Statistics & Facts: 2025 Data
U.S. Foster Care Statistics 2025
What Impacts Placement Stability?
The Impact of Placement Stability on Behavioral Well-Being for Children in Foster Care
Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.
https://www.escapepod.live
Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?
General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live
Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live
On Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos
Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
7 days ago
7 days ago
In this chilling and emotionally heavy episode, Charity dives into the rare but deeply disturbing world of pregnancy abductions, fabricated pregnancies, and pregnancy denial. Sparked by a previous conversation with guest Vallen Webb, this episode examines how the intense psychological pull toward motherhood can lead to deception, violence, and—tragically—murder.
With fewer than 40 documented fetal abduction cases worldwide, these crimes are rare, but their brutality is staggering. Charity breaks down the infamous cases of Lisa Montgomery and Darci Pierce—women who faked pregnancies and ultimately murdered to steal infants—as well as the heartbreaking case of Melissa “Prom Mom” Drexler, whose concealed pregnancy resulted in newborn death.
We explore the psychology behind these crimes, what drives women into delusion or desperation, and how trauma, identity, fantasy, and social pressure can merge into catastrophic outcomes. While these cases are extreme, understanding them helps us better identify the red flags and protect vulnerable women and children.
This is a difficult episode—but an important one.
Episode Highlights
The primal, distorted drive for motherhood and the psychological fracture points that can trigger extreme behavior
How fabricated pregnancies escalate into dangerous obsessions
A breakdown of one of the most notorious fetal abduction cases:
Lisa Montgomery & the murder of Bobbie Jo Stinnett (2004)
The 1987 case of Darci Pierce, who murdered Cindy Ray after months of faking a pregnancy
The devastating “Prom Mom” case involving Melissa Drexler and neonaticide
Why these crimes happen: insights from forensic psychology
How trauma, infertility, relationship instability, and identity wounds can fuel delusional pregnancy narratives
Why these crimes are so rare—and what early warning signs may look like
The societal expectations of womanhood and motherhood that can intensify psychological pressure
A reminder that while understanding motivations isn’t excusing them, it can inform prevention
Why curiosity can sometimes take you down roads you wish you never saw
A call for awareness, empathy, and proactive intervention for women in psychological distress
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
National Domestic Violence Hotline — 1-800-799-SAFE• Text START to 88788• If someone is hiding a pregnancy, showing obsessive pregnancy behavior, or expressing desperation about motherhood, seek help immediately—these situations can escalate quickly.
Resources & References
The Fetal Snatcher: Desperate to Be a Mom
Murder of Bobbie Jo Stinnett
Executions Scheduled for Two Federal Inmates Convicted of Heinous Murders
Statement From the Family of Bobbie Jo Stinnett
Kansan Lisa Montgomery Executed for Killing a Pregnant Woman in 2004 and Stealing Baby
Court Documents in Stinnett Case
Lisa Montgomery: Looking for Answers in the Life of a Killer
'Prom Mom' Released from Prison
'Prom Mom' Case Recalled After Accusations Neptune Teen Killed Her Newborn
New Jersey Mom Accepts Plea Agreement
"Desperate for a Child: On a Muggy Summer Day, Darci Pierce Decided She Would Kill to Have a Baby"
Woman Found Guilty of Killing Pregnant Woman for Her Baby
Pregnant Woman Was Alive When Cut
A Teenaged Mother Gives Birth and Murders Her Baby at the Prom
Executions Scheduled for Two Federal Inmates Convicted of Heinous Murders
A Staged Pregnancy | Most Evil S3 E7 | discovery+
Desperate for a Child : On a Muggy Summer Day, Darci Pierce Decided She Would Kill to Have a Baby
Prom Mom Killers: The Impact of Blame Shift and Distorted Statistics on Punishment for Neonaticide
Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.
https://www.escapepod.live
Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?
General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live
Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live
On Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos
Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
In this episode of The Escape Pod, we confront a sobering truth: the legal shield meant to protect victims of domestic violence can sometimes be little more than paper. Protection orders—also called restraining orders—are often hailed as a first line of defense, but as we’ll hear in today’s stories, their promises of safety are not always enough.
Through real cases, data, and expert insights, we explore the deadly gaps in enforcement, the scenarios where orders fail, and the ways the system could evolve to truly safeguard those at risk.
Inside This Episode
The Promise and Limitations of Protection Orders
Protection orders are court-issued documents intended to keep abusers away from victims, sometimes requiring surrender of weapons and forbidding contact. They can provide relief—but only when they are enforced. Studies show 10–12% of female intimate partner homicide victims had active protection orders at the time of their deaths. Globally, the UN reports that 51,100 women and girls were killed by intimate partners or family members in 2023, revealing the lethal stakes when safety measures fail.
Stories That Highlight the Danger
We dive into the harrowing cases of women whose protection orders weren’t enough:
Shirley Lowery (1992, Chicago) – Ambushed and killed in a courthouse hallway by her ex-partner before her order could even be served.
Tammie Marie Davis (1990, Southern California) – Shot and killed by her ex despite an active restraining order.
Donna Montgomery (1995, Indiana) – Murdered at her workplace by her estranged husband shortly after securing an order.
Theresa Bender (1993) – Killed by her husband the moment a temporary no-contact order expired.
Maria Navarro (1989) – Despite an active order and multiple 911 calls, her abuser killed her, two aunts, and a friend.
Betsy Murray – Her husband violated a temporary restraining order 13 times before ultimately killing her.
These stories show a stark reality: orders can fail due to poor enforcement, abuser defiance, or gaps in protective measures.
When Orders Escalate Danger
Filing a protection order can sometimes provoke abusers, especially in cases involving firearms, stalking, or past severe violence. Research shows that violations often spike shortly after issuance—turning a legal tool into a potential trigger. Risk is especially high where abusers have history of ignoring authority, access to guns, substance abuse, or rural isolation.
When Protection Orders Work
Protection orders are most effective when:
The abuser respects the law or fears consequences.
They are paired with firearm removal laws (e.g., Lautenberg Amendment).
There is strong enforcement, community support, and safety planning (locks, workplace alerts, apps for emergencies).
Orders are not a standalone solution, but part of a broader safety strategy.
The Bigger Picture
While protective orders save lives and reduce costs—NNEDV notes $85 million in savings in Kentucky alone—they are far from foolproof. Survivors and advocates stress that orders must be enforced consistently and combined with resources like shelters, monitoring, and risk assessments.
The takeaway is clear: paper protections are only as strong as the teeth behind them.
Key Takeaways
Protection orders save lives but are not infallible.
Enforcement gaps and abuser defiance are persistent risks.
Filing an order can escalate violence in high-risk cases.
Effective safety requires a comprehensive approach—legal, practical, and social.
Survivors should always consult an advocate before pursuing an order.
If you are in danger, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or text “START” to 88788.
RESOURCES:
Femicides in 2023
Woman Slain; Suspect Sets Himself Afire
Husband Kills Wife at Work, Himself
Despite Escorts, Woman Slain by Stalker Husband
Four Shot, Killed After 911 Call Fails to Summon Police
Court Orders in Abuse Cases often Fail to Deter Violence
Operation for Hope Reminds Victims of Violence That Goal is 'Safety, Not Justice'
Are Restraining Orders Really the Best Option?
Perspectives on Civil Protective Orders in Domestic Violence Cases: The Rural and Urban Divide
Domestic Violence Protective Orders Are Effective in Reducing Homicides, Study Finds
Intimate Partner Violence, Firearm Injuries and Homicides: A Health Justice Approach to Two Intersecting Public Health Crises
Civil Protection Orders: Victims’ Views on Effectiveness
One Woman or Girl is Killed Every 10 Minutes by Their Intimate Partner or Family Member
Judge Reportedly Denied Protection Orders For Woman Cops Say Was Killed By Ex
Connect With Us
If you have thoughts, theories, or questions about this case, message us on social or email the show.
Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.
https://www.escapepod.live
Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?
General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live
Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live
On Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos
Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
Wednesday Dec 03, 2025
Wednesday Dec 03, 2025
In today’s episode, we dive into the disturbing intersection of digital obsession, parasocial relationships, online sex work, addiction, and the psychological phenomenon known as hybristophilia—the attraction to criminals. Few cases capture this toxic blend more clearly than the story of Grant Amato, a Florida man who murdered his entire family in 2019 to continue funding a fantasy relationship with a cam model.
This case is a haunting example of how unchecked obsession, entitlement, and delusion can escalate into catastrophic violence.
Inside This Episode
We walk through:
The Amato Family Background
Grant, the youngest son of Chad and Margaret Amato, grew up in a stable, financially comfortable household in Chuluota, Florida.
Deeply enmeshed family dynamics shaped his early life, with Grant relying heavily on his brother Cody—his closest companion and “favorite person in the world.”
Despite privilege and opportunity, Grant struggled to maintain employment and responsibility.
The First Cracks
Grant was dismissed from his nurse anesthetist program after a heated argument stemming from a medical error.
He later lost a nursing job after drugging patients with propofol to make his night shifts “easier.”
After his arrest and job loss, Grant spiraled into isolation—turning to the internet to escape reality.
Digital Desire: The Parasocial Obsession Begins
While attempting to become a Twitch streamer, Grant discovered com and became fixated on a Bulgarian cam model named Silvie.
He believed he was in a real romantic relationship with her.
Grant spent over $200,000 on Silvie—almost all of it stolen from his parents, brother, and aunt through fraud, stolen debit cards, and opened credit lines.
Despite the betrayal, his family refused to press charges and tried relentlessly to support him.
Intervention, Collapse, and Escape
After repeated theft, the family staged an intervention and took Grant to a treatment facility for depression and sex/internet addiction.
His father revealed the truth to Silvie, who cut contact with Grant.
Margaret smuggled Grant a phone so he could continue talking to Silvie while in treatment.
Less than two weeks later, he left the program, returned home, and was given a strict list of rules.
January 24, 2019: The Murders
Feeling cornered and unwilling to face consequences, Grant murdered:
Margaret, shot in the back of the head
Chad, shot twice upon returning home
Cody, lured into the house with a text sent from their father’s phone
He staged the crime scene to resemble a murder-suicide and immediately used public WiFi to reconnect with Silvie using Cody’s bank account.
Two of Cody’s coworkers requested welfare checks, leading deputies to the home.
The Investigation
Grant showed no emotion during questioning and never asked about his family’s condition.
Provided contradictory stories and attempted to blame his father.
Forensic evidence—including a thumb drive connected after the murders—tied Grant to the crime.
The murder weapon was never found.
He was convicted in August 2019 and sentenced to life without parole.
Hybristophilia & The Women Who Love Killers
While in prison:
Grant received love letters and formed new parasocial relationships.
He even managed to send thousands of dollars to another woman.
After the docuseries Control + Alt + Desire aired, another shocking relationship surfaced:
The Victoria Goodwin Murder-For-Hire Plot
Victoria Goodwin, wife of Ghost Adventures star Aaron Goodwin, began writing to Grant.
Their pen-pal exchanges morphed into a romantic affair.
Using a contraband phone, they conspired to hire a hitman to kill her husband.
She set aside $11,515 and provided schedules, vehicle info, and details.
The plot was exposed when prison staff discovered Grant’s phone.
Victoria pled guilty to conspiracy to commit murder in April 2025.
Why Does This Happen? Understanding Hybristophilia
We break down the psychology behind why some women fall in love with violent criminals, including:
The fantasy of “fixing” or healing a dangerous man
Attraction to perceived vulnerability
Desire for attention or attachment
Feeling safe with a partner who is incarcerated
Trauma histories and dysfunctional relational patterns
The role of media in glamorizing criminals (Ted Bundy, Ramirez, Dahmer, etc.)
Social media fan cultures and the “fixing fantasy”
Victim erasure in storytelling
We also highlight well-known criminals who married in prison (Bundy, Ramirez, Tex Watson, the Menendez brothers).
Resources & References
Grant Amato on Wikipedia
Paramount+: CTRL+ALT+DESIRE
Grant Amato's Brother Testifies | Court TV Trial Archive (2019)
Man Found Guilty of Killing Family Members Sentenced to Life in Prison
Grant Amato Murdered His Family for a Webcam Model He Never Met
No Death Penalty in Amato Case
The Grant Amato Tragedy | Crime & Justice
Prosecutors in Grant Amato Murder Trial Focus on Digital Evidence
Creepy Bonfire: Murder for a Fantasy: Grant Amato’s Deadly Internet Addiction
'Ghost Adventures' Star Learns of Wife's Las Vegas Murder-for-Hire Arrest
Victoria Goodwin Appears Before Judge
Till Death Do Us Part Podcast: Aaron and Victoria Goodwin with Grant Amato
Why Are Some Women Sexually Attracted to Serial Killers?
12 People Who Married Serial Killers After They Were Caught
I'm a Forensic Psychiatrist - Here's Why Some Women Fall in Love with Murderers | Daily Mail Online
Female Murder Victims and Victim-Offender Relationship, 2021 | Bureau of Justice Statistics
Luigi Mangione's Appeal: Charismatic Killer & Public Fascination
Idolized Criminals – C Magazine The Dark Side of True Crime: How Media Romanticizes Serial Killers – Paw Print
Criminal Attraction: The Romanticization of Serial Killers |
Media Romanticization of Serial Killers – The Oracle
Idolized Criminals – C Magazine
The Romanticization of Crime: Can Hot People Get Away with Anything? – The Observer
Support the Mission
EscapePod exists to support real-world escapes from trauma, poverty, and addiction. All proceeds go directly toward helping people rebuild their lives.
Connect With Us
If you have thoughts, theories, or questions about this case, message us on social or email the show.
Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.
https://www.escapepod.live
Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?
General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live
Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live
On Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos
Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Episode Summary
In Part 2 of our deep dive into the Idaho College Student Murders, we turn the focus to the man behind the crime: Bryan Kohberger. This episode explores his past—childhood, adolescence, addiction, mental health struggles, academic obsessions, interpersonal dynamics, and online behaviors—in an attempt to understand what could have driven such calculated brutality.
While no psychological profile can ever justify violence, examining Kohberger’s history helps us piece together the factors that may have shaped his worldview, his anger, and his disturbing pursuit of dominance. From addiction and bullying, to narcissistic traits, misogynistic behavior, and his fixation on criminology, we analyze what is known, what has been theorized, and what remains unsettlingly unclear.
This is not about excusing a murderer—it’s about understanding the intersection of trauma, ego, rejection, and obsession that may have fueled one of the most chilling crimes in recent history.
What We Cover in This Episode
The defense’s attempts to delay trial and build a mitigation case
Claims of autism spectrum disorder, OCD, ADHD, and visual snow syndrome
Kohberger’s teenage addiction to heroin and repeated rehab attempts
His rapid weight loss, subsequent eating disorder, and shift into bullying
Rumors of a childhood car accident and potential trauma
His transition from struggling student to aspiring criminologist
Why classmates describe him as “alpha,” controlling, and socially aggressive
The defense’s challenges to DNA evidence and alternate-suspect theories
Online speculation about motive—revenge, misogyny, narcissism, incel ideology, or the pursuit of the “perfect crime”
Why many believe Madison Mogen was the intended target
Possible sexual motivation linked to digital history
Theories involving his criminology professor and desire for recognition
Why his guilty plea matters for victims’ families and the surviving roommates
His July 2025 sentencing: life in prison
Key Themes & Insights
Narcissism & Dominance
Former classmates repeatedly described Kohberger as someone who needed to be seen as superior—physically, intellectually, socially. His behavior aligns with traits often associated with narcissism: entitlement, resentment, lack of empathy, and obsession with power.
Misogyny & Rejection
Multiple sources reported female peers felt uncomfortable or unsafe around him. Combined with past disciplinary issues and online behavior, misogyny may have been a significant driving force.
Addiction, Trauma & Identity
Heroin addiction, rapid weight loss, hospitalization for an eating disorder, and social ostracization created a volatile mix of insecurity and rage. But millions experience trauma without turning violent. Kohberger’s choices were his own.
Academic Obsession Meets Dark Curiosity
His graduate studies on how criminals choose victims—and how they feel afterward—cast a long, disturbing shadow. Was he studying crime, or preparing for one?
Motive Will Never Be Simple
Revenge? Sexual fantasy? A desire for control? A failed attempt at committing the “perfect crime”? There is evidence pointing to each, but no single explanation can capture the complexity—or the horror—of his actions.
Resources & Sources Referenced
Bryan Kohberger Prosecutor Reveals Chilling Step-by-Step Account of Murderer’s Blood-lust Killings of 4 Idaho Students
NBC News: Bryan Kohberger Pleads Guilty at Hearing in Idaho College Student Murders
Four The Independent: Four Slain Students, a Weeks-long Manhunt But No Motive - Everything We Know About the Idaho Murders
Reddit: Kohberger’s 2 Main Murder Motives
New York Post: Bryan Kohberger Was an ‘Alpha’ Bully Who ‘Always Wanted to Be Dominant’
New Details of Bryan Kohberger's Addiction Battle and Dark Past Revealed in Idaho Murder Filings
ABC News 7: Bryan Kohberger, Idaho Murders suspect, First Arrested in 2014, Records Show
How a Family Tree and DNA Identified Idaho Murder Suspect Bryan Kohberger
Idaho Murders Suspect Bryan Kohberger 'Could Walk Free' Due To Bombshell DNA Evidence
Here’s How Bryan Kohberger Got Caught for Idaho Murders
Wikipedia—More Misogyny?
Bryan Kohberger Fired from WSU Teaching Job Days Before Idaho Murders Arrest
Idaho Murder Trial Judge to Allow ‘Bushy Eyebrows’ Testimony
Newly Released Texts and 911 Call Transcript from Surviving Roommates Reveal Panic and Terror
Surviving Roommates Dylan Mortenson and Bethany Funke Call 911
BRYAN KOHBERGER PLEADS GUILTY, His Killings Mapped by a Forensics Expert | Murder Maps | Daily Mail
Theory on Bryan Kohberger’s Motive
Reddit: More Motive Theory
Bryan Kohberger Motive Allegedly Tied to Former Professor
Bryan Kohberger's Defense Submits Theory of Alternate Perpetrator in Idaho Murders
Kohberger Sentenced to Life in Prison
Final Thoughts
Kohberger’s guilty plea closed one chapter, but the questions surrounding motive, mindset, and missed warning signs will linger for years. What we do know is this: the lives of Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan will always matter more than the man who took them.
If You Found This Episode Heavy…
Please take care of yourself. This case involves trauma, violence, and psychological distress. If you or someone you know needs support, local mental health and crisis hotlines are available.
Connect With Us
If you have thoughts, theories, or questions about this case, message us on social or email the show.
Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.
https://www.escapepod.live
Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?
General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live
Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live
On Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos
Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
Wednesday Nov 19, 2025
Wednesday Nov 19, 2025
Episode Summary: In November 2022, the quiet college town of Moscow, Idaho was shaken by the brutal murders of four University of Idaho students. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we break down the timeline of the night, the discovery of the crime, and the investigative work that led authorities to their prime suspect: Bryan Kohberger. From chilling behavioral patterns to cutting-edge DNA genealogy, this case is a haunting blend of horror and forensic breakthrough.
What We Cover in This Episode
A walkthrough of the victims' final hours
How surviving roommates unintentionally crossed paths with the killer
Confusing and conflicting early eyewitness accounts
What police found at the crime scene
How a single piece of DNA on a knife sheath cracked the case
The role of investigative genetic genealogy
The search for a white Hyundai Elantra and its connection to Kohberger
His digital footprints: cell phone pings, surveillance video, and online behavior
His criminology background and alarming behavioral patterns
How investigators closed in during the holidays
Kohberger’s guilty plea and what it means for sentencing
The University of Idaho’s response and honoring of the victims
Key Takeaways
This case quickly became one of the most closely watched investigations in the country.
A combination of digital forensics, genealogy databases, surveillance footage, and behavioral profiling led to an arrest.
Kohberger’s academic focus on criminology created disturbing layers of irony in the case.
The surviving roommates’ conflicting memories highlight the trauma and chaos of the event.
The victims—Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan—were honored with posthumous degrees, and the home where the murders occurred has since been demolished.
Resources & Sources Referenced
Bryan Kohberger Prosecutor Reveals Chilling Step-by-Step Account of Murderer’s Blood-lust Killings of 4 Idaho Students
NBC News: Bryan Kohberger Pleads Guilty at Hearing in Idaho College Student Murders
Four The Independent: Four Slain Students, a Weeks-long Manhunt But No Motive - Everything We Know About the Idaho Murders
Reddit: Kohberger’s 2 Main Murder Motives
New York Post: Bryan Kohberger Was an ‘Alpha’ Bully Who ‘Always Wanted to Be Dominant’
New Details of Bryan Kohberger's Addiction Battle and Dark Past Revealed in Idaho Murder Filings
ABC News 7: Bryan Kohberger, Idaho Murders suspect, First Arrested in 2014, Records Show
How a Family Tree and DNA Identified Idaho Murder Suspect Bryan Kohberger
Idaho Murders Suspect Bryan Kohberger 'Could Walk Free' Due To Bombshell DNA Evidence
Here’s How Bryan Kohberger Got Caught for Idaho Murders
Wikipedia—More Misogyny?
Bryan Kohberger Fired from WSU Teaching Job Days Before Idaho Murders Arrest
Idaho Murder Trial Judge to Allow ‘Bushy Eyebrows’ Testimony
Newly Released Texts and 911 Call Transcript from Surviving Roommates Reveal Panic and Terror
Surviving Roommates Dylan Mortenson and Bethany Funke Call 911
BRYAN KOHBERGER PLEADS GUILTY, His Killings Mapped by a Forensics Expert | Murder Maps | Daily Mail
Theory on Bryan Kohberger’s Motive
Reddit: More Motive Theory
Bryan Kohberger Motive Allegedly Tied to Former Professor
Bryan Kohberger's Defense Submits Theory of Alternate Perpetrator in Idaho Murders
If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling
This episode deals with traumatic and violent content. If you need support, please reach out to trusted mental health resources or crisis hotlines in your area.
Connect With Us
If you have thoughts, theories, or questions about this case, message us on social or email the show. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive into motive theories, defense strategies, psychological background, and unanswered questions that still linger.
Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.
https://www.escapepod.live
Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?
General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live
Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live
On Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos
Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
Wednesday Nov 12, 2025
Wednesday Nov 12, 2025
Guest: Seth Malott, Host of Sober CityTheme: Sobriety, Recovery, and the Power of Honest Conversations
Show Summary:In this powerful episode of The Escape Pod, hosts Charity and KB sit down with Seth Malott, the voice behind the Sober City podcast, to unpack what it really means to live beyond addiction.
Seth shares his own story of recovery, the inspiration behind Sober City, and the raw truths he’s learned from others walking the same road. Together, they dive into the misconceptions about alcoholism, the impact of America’s growing “sober curious” movement, and the hope that comes when people start telling the truth—out loud.
Whether you’re in recovery, love someone who is, or simply want to understand the human side of addiction, this conversation offers both compassion and clarity. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t linear—but it is possible.
Episode Highlights
The origin story of Sober City and how storytelling builds community in recovery
Seth’s most memorable guest moments—and what they taught him about resilience
Common myths about addiction and why shame still silences so many
The hidden epidemic of alcohol use disorder in America—and what we can do about it
Why the “sober curious” movement is gaining traction
Three practical steps for anyone beginning their own sobriety journey
Takeaway
Addiction thrives in silence. Conversations like this one remind us that recovery grows in connection.
Resources & References
Sober City podcast
Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.
https://www.escapepod.live
Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?
General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live
Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live
On Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos
Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
Wednesday Nov 05, 2025
Wednesday Nov 05, 2025
Theme: Ethical Dilemmas, Digital Boundaries, and Everyday Chaos
Show Summary:In this episode of The Escape Pod, Charity and KB dive into one of the internet’s most brutally honest corners—Reddit’s Am I the A-hole? From overbearing parents and Life360 tracking to messy family drama and relationship double standards, we’re unpacking the moral gray areas that make us all human.You’ll laugh, cringe, and maybe even question your own inner A-hole as we explore how everyday choices—big and small—shape relationships, trust, and personal boundaries.
Because sometimes, escaping isn’t about leaving the drama behind… it’s about finally seeing it for what it is.
Episode Highlights:
Life360 and Parental Control: How much digital monitoring is too much when your “baby” goes to college?
Boundaries vs. Tradition: Should you change a long-standing party plan to fit a new partner’s expectations?
Neighborhood Drama: When “mind your own business” becomes fighting words.
Family Feuds: The fine line between truth-telling and cruelty in sibling rivalries.
Wedding Wars: Who gets the final say when family boundaries clash with love and loyalty?
Bonus Chaos: Can “I’m sorry to hear that” really make you the bad guy?
Key Takeaways:
The AITA threads reveal how messy modern relationships have become in the digital age.
Technology has blurred the line between connection and control.
Emotional boundaries matter as much as moral ones—and sometimes even more.
No one’s perfect, but accountability starts with honesty (and maybe a little self-awareness).
🎧 Tune In If You Love:
True stories that spark debate
Moral gray areas and internet drama
Real talk about modern relationships
Humor with a side of heart
Resources & References
Reddit.com
Go to AmItheAsshole
r/AmItheAsshole•
Sign up to be a Patron today! Get access to the Patron-Only Facebook Group, Bonus Episodes, and more.
https://www.escapepod.live
Do you have a story that you want to share with EscapePod? Or do you just want to reach out to us with your comments and thoughts?
General mail: justbecause@escapepod.live
Submit listener stories: escapeartist@escapepod.live
On Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapePod.traumedy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escape_pod_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Escape_Pod_podcast/videos
Subscribe and listen now- https://linktr.ee/escapepod57701
EscapePod
Join co-hosts Charity and KB, along with occasional guests, as they laugh (and cry) their way through past traumas and give tips to getting through tough times.
Life is full of ups and downs and it takes you to crazy places and we need each other to make it through.
Are you an escape artist? Consider becoming a patron and supporting the show!
Your support will help our small 3-person podcast team offset the costs associated with writing, producing, and promoting the show. Any amount is sincerely appreciated. What's more, your support will help us do what we do best: help others escape and break unhealthy cycles on their way to better lives.
Choose from the options below:
Escape Pod BFF!
$10per month
This patron level is for supporters who are all-in!
~Get a special shout-out on the show.
~Receive a hand-written thank you from the hosts with a special Escape Pod sticker.
~Gain access to gated patron-only bonus content and ad-free episodes.
~Participate in our patrons-only Facebook page.
~Vote on future show topics.
GIVE $10
I LOVE Escape Pod!
$5per month
This patron level is for supporters who are willing to give the monetary equivalent of a cup of coffee each month to support the costs associated with producing the show.
~Get a special shout-out on the show.
~Receive a hand-written thank you from the hosts with a special Escape Pod sticker.
~Gain access to gated patron-only bonus content and ad-free episodes.
~Participate in our patrons-only Facebook page.
GIVE $5
Escape Pod Fan
$2per month
This patron level is in honor of people struggling in the crisis of poverty and who feel moved to support the show and our mission to help people just like them.
~Get a special shout-out on the show.
~Receive a thank-you email from the hosts.
GIVE $2
Disclaimer
The EscapePod podcast and content posted is presented solely for general information, educational, and entertainment purposes.