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Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast — Personal Journals
Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast

Foggy gaslit streets. A quiet courtroom. And crimes that history tried to bury.

Foul Play is a historical true crime podcast that investigates the most chilling murder cases from the 1800s and early 1900s across the United States and the United Kingdom. Hosted by investigative crime journalists Shane Waters — who pioneered crime podcasting in 2008 — and Wendy Cee, each season unravels one complete criminal case through original research, court records, and primary source material.

This isn't sensationalized true crime. Every season of Foul Play puts victims first — their names, their stories, their humanity — before examining how murder investigations unfolded in an era before modern forensics, when justice was far from guaranteed.

From Victorian poisoners in London to Gilded Age killers in America, Foul Play brings historical true crime to life with cinematic storytelling and relentless accuracy. Every fact is verified. Every claim is sourced. Every story is told with the gravity it deserves.

New seasons of this historical true crime podcast release throughout the year, with episodes dropping weekly on Tuesdays.

Hello, friend. Welcome to Foul Play.

Copyright: © Copyright Black Label Podcasting

Latest Episodes:

Hong Kong: The Robert Kissel Mystery Jan 12, 2022

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In a glittering high-rise of Hong Kong, the Robert Kissel Mystery unfolds. A tale of wealth and deceit, where Robert Kissel's murder unveils darker truths hidden behind a facade of opulence and tranquility. This episode explores how Robert, a successful investment banker, seemed to have it all, wealth, a family, and a high-flying career. Yet, within the walls of his lavish home, a tempest brewed that would end in his tragic death. In the early 2000s, Kissel's life appeared perfect on the outside, but inside, marital tension and financial deceit weaved a lethal narrative. The murder not only sent shockwaves through his own family but also highlighted broader societal themes of greed and betrayal. examine into the investigation that revealed a deadly mix of lies, sedatives, and a tragic end. With the backdrop of Hong Kong's vibrant ex-pat community, the episode further explores how societal pressures and personal demons can lead to unfathomable acts. Listen in as we uncover the truth, dissect the investigation, and ponder the lasting impact of this bewildering case. Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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Le Mans: The Papin Sisters' Infamous Crime Dec 29, 2021

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The grizzly crime committed by the Papin sisters in 1933 Le Mans, France, unfolded like a gruesome opera. Christine and Léa Papin, domestic workers in an affluent household, committed one of the most bewildering crimes in French history, painting a dark portrait of class struggle and psychological unrest. Before the crime, the Papin sisters were ordinary service workers, seen but often ignored by those they served. Known for their hard work and loyalty, they quietly lived in the shadows of their employers' grandeur. Yet beneath this veneer simmered unresolved anguish stemming from an unyielding social order. This tale resonates deeply with issues of systemic injustice and mental health, reflecting a period in history when social divides fostered stark separations between classes. It serves as a chilling reminder of the marginalization and systemic failures within society. The case facts paint a bloody canvas of rage and repression. Following an evening dispute, the sisters unleashed a ferocious attack on their employers, resulting in brutal, sacrificial like violence that stunned the world. The subsequent arrest and trial became a spectacle, inviting debates on the nature of insanity and criminal culpability. In 1930s France, an era marked by cultural flourishes and economic distress, this crime shattered the period's facade of stability. With increasing polarization between the wealthy and working class, the Papin sisters' crime echoed the societal undercurrents leading to broader reforms. Through an engaging retelling, this episode dissects motives and madness, diving into expert insights to examine questions about mental health and societal obligations. Prepare to challenge your understanding of crime and humanity within this complex historical context. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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Washington: The Maurin Murders at Christmas Dec 22, 2021

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As Christmas loomed in 1985, the quiet town of Longview, Washington, was shattered by the heinous Maurin murders. The holiday season turned dark when the elderly couple vanished just days before Christmas. Their brutal end in Longview remains a chilling reminder of a festive season marred by tragedy. we examine into the story of the Maurin couple, a well-liked pair whose lives reflected the idyllic charm of Longview. Ed and Minnie Maurin were known for their generosity and kindness, often seen at church events and community gatherings, brightening every room with their warmth. The significance of these murders extends beyond their violent nature. They implored society to reflect on both the fragility of life and the lurking darkness within peaceful communities. At a time when family unity and celebration were expected, the event highlighted vulnerabilities that struck fear across the nation. The investigation revealed unsettling facts triggered by their disappearance. The community's regular cadence disrupted as the area was transformed into a tense crime scene. Initially reported missing, the discovery of their bodies led investigators on a convoluted path of evidence marred by misleading clues and suspect trails, casting suspicion far and wide. Set against the backdrop of mid-1980s America, amidst social change and economic challenges, this case attracted the media's gaze. The 1980s were marked by technological progress juxtaposed with economic hardships, influencing both societal norms and crime narratives. As media coverage spotlighted the couple's last hours, public speculation ran rampant. Listeners will unfold the harrowing tale through interviews and archival footage, constructed into a coherent narrative that marries the tragic past with the contemplations of modern justice. We will examine the impact on community trust, law enforcement responses, and the enduring legacy of stolen yuletide peace. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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Fayetteville: The Fire Mystery of the Sodder Family Dec 15, 2021

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Fayetteville's Sodder Family fire mystery remains unsolved... Traverse the decades-old enigma involving the Sodder Family and the mysterious fire that changed their lives forever. This episode revisits the simmering questions surrounding the tragic Christmas Eve fire of 1945. The Sodder children transcended familiar household identities to embody a haunting mystery. Before the fire, the Sodder family embraced the American dream, establishing roots in Fayetteville while nurturing hopes and ambitions for their ten children. This mystery challenges notions of loss and closure. For over 75 years, it has persisted as a cautionary tale of justice left undone, leaving a community and family wondering what might have been had answers come sooner. The narrative unfolds on Christmas Eve, when a fire engulfed the Sodder home, claiming five children who were never seen again. Despite rigorous investigations, suspect leads, and mounting public intrigue, conclusive answers remained elusive, etching this case into American folklore. Set in post-World War II America, the Sodder case resonates with themes of family resilience amid societal recovery. The era's shifting cultural landscapes added complex layers to a tale that defied simple explanations, mirroring the evolving American social fabric. Through interviews with historians and family descendants, this episode examines the depth of loss and the quest for truth. Hear from experts and dive into new theories that continue to stir public interest. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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Calumet: The Italian Hall Christmas Tragedy Dec 08, 2021

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Calumet's Italian Hall tragedy left a haunting Christmas shadow... Explore the heartbreaking disaster at the Italian Hall, which claimed many lives on Christmas Eve and left a lasting impact. we recount the events leading to one of Michigan's most tragic mining community events and its profound aftermath. Those lost in the tragedy were miners and their families, seeking community and celebration during the holiday season. Before the disaster, these workers endured harsh conditions for paltry wages in Michigan's copper mining industry, a backdrop that set the stage for labor tensions and personal strife. This incident stands as a somber reflection on labor rights and human costs in industrial capitalism. It highlights the desperate conditions that miners faced and the need for improved safety and solidarity within labor movements, lessons resonant well into contemporary context. On that fateful Christmas, a false cry of fire led to a frantic stampede and a tragedy of untold proportions. The subsequent investigation revealed a community gripped by fear and injustice, with questions about safety and accountability haunting the aftermath. Taking place in the early 20th century, the tragedy is emblematic of the growing pains of an industrializing country, where rapid technological advances often came at the expense of workers' lives and rights. The episode re-examines this era to revealed the societal changes that shaped labor laws and worker protections. Listeners will hear testimonies from historians and surviving family members, as well as archival audio painting a vivid picture of the event and its enduring legacy. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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Chicago: The Real Horror Behind 'Candyman' Dec 01, 2021

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Chicago's real-life horrors behind 'Candyman' echo chillingly... Dive into the haunting parallels between fact and fiction in Chicago, where the mythology of 'Candyman' intersects with chilling truths. This one-off episode dissects the real-life inspirations that haunted the Cabrini-Green neighborhood and the chilling events that unfolded there. The victims of these real-life horrors were not mere figures; they were citizens of a contentious housing project, dreaming of security and community amidst adversity. Before the horror, Cabrini-Green's residents sought to build lives marked by resilience, forging bonds amid infrastructural neglect and escalating urban decay. Unpacking this case matters because it challenges the societal narratives imposed on marginalized communities. The eerie intersection of 'Candyman' with reality unearths layers of systemic oversight and neglect, perpetuating environments of fear and silence where horror became tangible. Our journey leads us through true crime events at Cabrini-Green, where violence and fear reigned. We explore the 1987 murder of Ruthie Mae McCoy, whose pleas for help went unanswered, leaving a chilling resonance of neglect. The urban legend of 'Candyman' found fertile ground in these truths as folklore blended with grim reality. Reflecting an era of strained race and class dynamics, the 1980s in Chicago saw communities grappling with poverty and violence. This context frames the real events that inspired 'Candyman,' revealing broader social tensions and the collapse of government oversight in housing projects like Cabrini-Green. Listeners will hear gripping firsthand accounts and urban folklore experts discuss the interplay between myth and fact. This episode investigates how cultural perceptions further entrap communities already on the edge. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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New Jersey: Rubin 'Hurricane' Carter's Fight Against Fate Nov 10, 2021

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New Jersey's own Rubin 'Hurricane' Carter faced fate's cruel punches... Follow Rubin 'Hurricane' Carter's tumultuous journey through a storm of injustice, where racial tensions and misjudgment intertwined in a struggle for truth. This compelling one-off episode traces the incredible life of the boxer wrongfully imprisoned, whose defiant fight against fate is a story for the ages. Rubin Carter was more than just a name in boxing; he was a beacon of resilience and hope. Before the crime, Carter was a celebrated athlete, known for his strength in the ring and his never-give-up attitude. His life story extends beyond boxing into a narrative of perseverance in face of racial and systemic adversities. As listeners will discover, Carter's story is a vivid illustration of racial tension permeating the United States during the civil rights era. It exposes the racial prejudices and errors in the justice system that condemned an innocent man and became a rallying cry for racial equality and reform. Through a narrative of wrongful conviction, this episode explores the night of the crime that changed Carter's life. Eyewitness accounts and inconsistent evidence led to a series of trials and legal battles. Despite clear miscarriages of justice, Carter's fight within the judicial system brought widespread attention, support from activists, and celebrities, eventually culminating in his exoneration. Set during a time of civil upheaval, Carter's battle reflects broader societal transformations. The 1960s was a decade marked by the push for civil rights and equal justice, situating Carter's personal struggle within a national fight for racial justice, deeply influencing public perception and legal discourse. listeners will hear powerful interviews and courtroom exchanges, supported by documents and audio footage from the trials. It reveals how and why justice eventually prevailed, and how Carter's story inspires future generations. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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Baltimore: Sister Cathy's Hidden Paths Nov 03, 2021

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Baltimore's unsolved mystery intensifies as Sister Cathy Cesnik's murder leads us into hidden paths through a... of Foul Play, we examine into the perplexing web surrounding Sister Cathy Cesnik's tragic death. Joined by an insider known as 'the brother,' we uncover gripping insights and untold stories that deepen the intrigue. Season 2 of our podcast focuses on the mysteries surrounding the murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik, a case intertwined with corruption, faith, and justice in Baltimore's history. Cathy was a vibrant teacher beloved by her students, living a life dedicated to education and service. Her mysterious death left a void in the hearts of many, symbolizing lost innocence. This case matters as it exposes abuse of power within religious institutions, impacting societal trust and spurring calls for accountability. Through interviews and research, we explore how secrets were kept and power wielded. Listeners will hear firsthand accounts, shocking revelations, and a renewed quest for truth. We work through through Sister Cathy's hidden paths and examine the complexities of her case. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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South Carolina: The Toxic Deception of Lana Clayton Oct 20, 2021

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South Carolina was rocked by the toxic deception of Lana Clayton... A chilling modern tale echoing ancient practices, this episode examines into the chilling case of Lana Clayton, whose actions led to an unexpected murder, reminiscent of sinister methods from the past. In this gripping one-off episode, we examine into how a seemingly loving relationship unravelled into a shocking crime scene. Lana Clayton, once considered a dedicated and caring spouse, was far from a villain in public eyes until her calculated and covert actions were unveiled. Listeners will be taken on a journey through the life of a woman turned perpetrator in a disturbing story that has both captivated and horrified the public. Lana was not just a name splashed across headlines; she was a nurse, a community figure, and a woman whose unsettling choices belied the trust she once enjoyed from those who knew her. Before the crime, Lana's life in South Carolina seemed picture-perfect. Known for her helpful nature and dedication to bettering others' lives through her profession, she was a person whose outward appearance masked an inner storm. This story matters not only because of its immediate impact on those involved, but also its piercing illumination of hidden dangers within seemingly ordinary lives. It brings to light the unsettling reality that behind closed doors, domestic lives can harbor dark secrets that defy our perception of normality and safety. The case examines with Lana's deliberate poisoning of her husband, a chilling act masked as care. The investigation uncovers layers of deceit, including hidden motives and premeditated cruelty that belied the facade of a loving partnership. Forensic examinations painted a grim picture of intentional harm, leading authorities through a complex inquiry that shocked a community. This episode situates listeners in the 21st-century backdrop where old world toxins find new uses. Within a society that mostly eyes forwards, the episode reveals how some choose to reach into the past for methods of hurt. A modern setting becomes the stage for ancient crimes, reflecting societal shifts in domestic relationships amid changing times. Listeners will hear from those close to the case, including unexpected revelations from trial processes, court documents, and expert analysis providing a full picture of this modern crime. The episode exposes the layers of manipulation and presents key evidence that led to Lana's conviction. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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Chicago: The St. Valentine's Day Massacre Oct 14, 2021

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In 1929, Chicago's crime war climaxed with a Valentine's massacre, learn about this bloody turning point in gang history... The St. Valentine's Day Massacre reflects infamous Chicago's prohibition era, a time when gang rivalry reached its brutal zenith. Seven men gunned down, Chicago's streets ran red with the blood of warring factions, epitomizing the vicious rivalry between Al Capone and Bugs Moran. This outbreak of violence was emblematic of a city under siege by organized crime. Beyond the headlines lay a world of corruption and fear, as Mafia influences shaped both streets and politics. We examine the historical backdrop of this massacre, explore its deep-rooted causes, and its long-standing effects on American society. With interviews and in-depth analysis, this episode nests a narrative of change where law enforcement and public policy began to confront organized crime's grip on Chicago. Be prepared to examine deep into an era of flappers and firearms, leaving listeners pondering the legacies of America's gangland past. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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