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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:

Across the South: Redhead Murders Begin Apr 25, 2021

Show notes

Across the South, a chilling pattern emerges as redheaded women begin to fall victim to a serial killer... The Redhead Murders are an ominous chapter in the American South's dark history. Episode 1 of Season 6 explores these violent crimes and their impact. Before becoming statistics, these women were vibrant individuals with stories to tell. Each victim had dreams, loved ones, and a life unjustly stolen. Understanding their stories affirms their humanity, reminding us they were more than just their fate. This series examines why these murders matter, highlighting the historical significance of uncovering a serial killer operating under the radar across state lines. These cases reveal law enforcement's struggle to connect inter-state crimes. We examine into the harrowing case details, the dates, bodies, and investigative hurdles that obscure the truth. Reflecting the 1980s' era of social mobility and vulnerability, we'll paint the social backdrop that allowed the killer to slip unnoticed. uncover the beginning of these sinister events and the complex pursuit for justice. --- 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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UK: Motive Unraveled in Lonely Hearts Crimes Apr 07, 2021

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In a grim cache of trunks, secrets began to unfold that pointed to the full scope of Harry Powers's deadly deceit. Amidst the various objects seized from Powers's home was a key finding, a bankbook belonging to one Dorothy Pressler Lemke. This fourth episode of our in-depth exploration of the Lonely Hearts Murders unpacks the connections and identities covered by Powers's nefarious machinations. Dorothy Lemke was a woman seeking love and stability, like many others ensnared by Powers's deadly web. Her tragic story adds another layer to the chilling narrative of exploitation and loss. The period marked by Powers's crimes was one of potential and peril, with the rise of modern matchmaking occasionally tainted by sinister intent. As society wrestled with technological advancements, the moral implications seemed yet undefined, creating pockets of vulnerability exploited by killers like Powers. The investigation highlights the persistence and diligence required to connect the fragmented pieces of Powers's exploitation network, from financial documentation to identity theft and emotional manipulation. We explore not just the timeline of events, but the personal devastation left in Powers's wake, understanding how his calculated charm carried lethal consequences. Listeners are invited to dive deep into detailed discussions with historians to grasp the larger socio-ethical issues raised by the Lonely Hearts crimes, probing the contrasts of those searching for love against the backdrop of a duplicitous assassin. --- 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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UK: Parsing Clues in Lonely Hearts Murders Mar 24, 2021

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In the wake of horror, investigators rush to piece together the grim puzzle of Harry Powers's murders. Following the shocking discovery of Mrs. Eicher and her children in Powers's gruesome lair, authorities scramble to untangle the ghastly mystery. This third episode of Season 5 dives deeper into the harrowing discovery at Powers's garage in Clarksburg, West Virginia. As secrets began to unfold, it became critical to understand the pattern Powers followed in his terrifying journey. The Eicher family, much like many others, sought a new beginning, a chance at love that tragically spiraled into terror. This case serves as a landmark moment in criminal investigations, highlighting the growing need for psychological profiling during this era of evolving law enforcement. Investigators were tasked with examining every corner of Powers's interactions, mapping meticulously the correspondence that linked him to multiple murders, hinting at his cold, calculated nature. This episode aims to revealed the advancements and limitations of early 20th-century forensic work in examining the 'Lonely Hearts' murderer's trail. Amidst clippings and letters, listeners will begin on a journey, experiencing each desperate detail that brought investigators closer to examining the truth. Hear experts recount the intricacy of Powers's manipulations and the haunting aftermath faced by grieving families left in his wake. --- 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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UK: Inside the Lonely Hearts Killer's Pursuit Mar 10, 2021

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Under the guise of romance, the Lonely Hearts Killer lured victims into a deadly trap. Cornelius Pierson, a seemingly charming figure in the correspondence world, was actually Harry F. Powers, a man whose deception led to murder and despair in the early 20th century. Season 5 of Foul Play takes you through the sinister operations of Powers, a man who exploited the vulnerability and heartache of hopeful romantics. In this era when personal ads offered hope to the lonely, he painted himself as the perfect suitor, only to bring about their tragic ends. Before falling into Powers's trap, his victims sought love and companionship through the 'lonely hearts' correspondence. These individuals, often isolated and seeking connection, were more than names in a newspaper, they held dreams of love that were brutally shattered. This episode uncovers the chilling saga of the Lonely Hearts Killer, examining deep into how personal ads became deadly. It matters because it highlights the dark side of human nature and the risks within seemingly innocent advances in society. Harry Powers's criminal pursuits unfolded in a time when West Virginia and the United States were grappling with post-war changes. Trust was a precious commodity, and the social landscape provided fertile ground for malfeasance by those with malicious intent. Known for his charismatic allure, Powers meticulously crafted a narrative of trust before revealing his lethal intentions. Investigators pieced together the extent and implications of his deceit, mapping his correspondence and connections to identify victims, often connecting him through letters, identities, and financial trails. Listeners will hear from historians and experts about the dark adventure through trust, manipulation, and the fatal conclusions of these unsuspecting seekers of love. Join us as Foul Play investigates how a deadly masquerade unravelled in the darkest corners of the 'Lonely Hearts.' --- 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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UK: The Lonely Hearts Killer Strikes Feb 24, 2021

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In the UK, the Lonely Hearts Killer strikes fear through romantic promises turned deadly. This case explores how one man reshaped the landscape of love and manipulation. The Lonely Hearts Killer represents a darker time in the UK's pursuit of love, a sinister deviation from genuine connection. This episode marks the beginning of Season 5, diving into a chilling tale that brings forth notable insights into the crimes associated with the pursuit of love. Victims of the Lonely Hearts Killer were seeking tenderness and companionship. Before their untimely deaths, these men and women led lives where the possibility of romance carried hope. They were individuals enriched with both triumph and trials, only to be concealed by the shadow of their unfortunate demise. This narrative is important because it underlines the dangers inherent in unchecked trust, especially in the milieu of modern dating. The history behind such crimes serves as a critical reminder about the potential hazards lurking within human interactions. During the mid-20th century, the UK was undergoing significant societal and technological advancements. This case serves as a haunting reminder of vulnerabilities exploited within these changing dynamics. This notorious series of murders highlights the fusion of evolving communication methods with deceit. Listeners will find themselves immersed in an exploration of UK crime, unpacking both the psychological profile of the Lonely Hearts Killer and the impact on evolving modern relationships. Expect discussions brimming with analytical depth, tensions underlying romantic exchanges, and the echoes heard years later. 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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Series Special: April Fools' Day Crimes Explored Feb 24, 2021

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April Fools' Day's notorious past includes pranks that turned sinister, dive into its history with Foul Play's special... Discover how a day famed for harmless antics also conceals dark tales of crime and deception intertwined with its history. Originally a day for joy and jest, times when tricks spiraled into mayhem reveal a darker side: crimes that broke the bounds of mere tomfoolery. This episode dissects how April Fools' Day has been a backdrop to schemes and scams that left surprising impacts in history. A closer look into pranks that went awry blends with stories of notorious crimes linked to this date, examining the blurred lines between fun and fraud. Expect narratives packed with surprising facts and little-known stories, painting a picture not just of pranks, but of a day when crime occasionally takes center stage. --- 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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London: The Maxwells' Mysterious Wealth Jan 27, 2021

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Unveiling London's The Maxwells' Mysterious Wealth in tales of... financial cunning and ill-gotten gains. This episode probes into the untold stories behind the Maxwell family's rise and the enigmatic allure of their wealth. Foul Play's Season 4 plunges into enigmatic chronicles that shaped society as we understand it. Episode 2 casts a light on the Maxwells' accumulation of wealth, a mixture of legitimate enterprise and shadowy dealings. Before the wealth and notoriety, Robert Maxwell was a war hero, a self-proclaimed success forged in adversity. His aspiration to build an empire was matched only by the charisma he exuded, drawing many into his orbit. Ghislaine, his accomplice and favored companion, balanced charm with cunning, often at the forefront of the family's social maneuvers. This story is important, demonstrating how strategic maneuvering and deceit can elevate families to unimaginable heights, while also illustrating the eventual fallibilities exposed by corruption and greed. It serves as a cautionary tale about the pressures and spectacles of wealth unchecked. important episode details include the Maxwells' acquisition of key assets and their transition to affluence. The financial strategies employed, coupled with Robert's audacious personality, led to suspicion and investigation. The downfall began with revelations of debts, embezzlement, and the tragic demise of a patriarch who pushed boundaries until his dying breath. In the 1980s-1990s, the world witnessed an economic revolution, characterized by deregulation and consumerism. The Maxwells thrived during this period of financial exuberance, yet their empire was built on fragile foundations that the financial climate often tested. Listeners will uncover the careful orchestration behind a scandal-laden dynasty, gaining insights into the manipulations that masked vulnerabilities until their grand unravelling. The episode captures the intrigue of working through power amid shifting economic landscapes. 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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London: The Maxwells' Family Secrets Jan 13, 2021

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Exploring The Maxwells' Family Secrets through the shadows of... British high society and scandalous intrigue. In this captivating episode, we examine the complex web spun by the Maxwell family, led by the enigmatic and powerful patriarch, Robert Maxwell. Season 4 of Foul Play examines stories wrapped in layers of mystery and societal impact. Episode 1 dives deep into the Maxwells' controversial history, revealing secrets hidden from the public eye for decades. Robert Maxwell, a man of immense ambition and influence, played a key role in both business and politics. Before scandals enveloped the family, they thrived in society, becoming synonymous with opulence and power. Ghislaine Maxwell, Robert's youngest daughter, exuded charm and sophistication, often overshadowed by her father's formidable presence. This case matters because it highlights the darker side of wealth and authority, exposing vulnerabilities within social and political structures. The Maxwell family's story encapsulates the shifting tides of trust and betrayal in the high-stakes world of corporate and political chess games. Key details include Robert Maxwell's rise from humble beginnings to creating a sprawling publishing empire. His children, particularly Ghislaine, navigated the treacherous waters of privilege and expectation, with involvement in affairs that shocked the world. Financial discrepancies and mysterious connections underscored their downfall, leaving a lasting mark on modern scandals. During the late 20th century, rapid socio-political changes and economic upheavals characterized the global landscape. The Maxwell saga unfolded amidst this environment, reflecting societal tensions and the intoxicating allure of unchecked power and influence. Listeners will examine into the intricacies of a family working through the tumult of scandal and survival. The episode promises a thorough exploration of legacy, ambition, and the intergenerational effects of power plays gone awry. 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: Learning from Alice's Tragedy Jan 05, 2021

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"Baltimore: Learning from Alice's Tragedy" teaches lessons imprinted by history's shadows and triumphs... In Foul Play's reflective episode from Season 2, Sister Cathy's journey expands with parallels drawn from Alice, forging a pedagogic beacon dedicated to resilience inspiring growth from mournful roots. Alice, a teacher and a pillar in students' lives, exemplified strength that inspired generations facing traumatic exposures. Her story unfolds lessons necessary in molding societal bonds capable of defending vulnerable communities rapidly adapting beyond generational rim-forged misconceptions. Alice's narrative intersects Cathy's pain, illuminating institutional humdrum requiring revolutionary surmounts through historic tenders unfolding vigilantly. Stephanie Fowler guides listeners through intimate engagements spotlighting Alice's embodiment of hope entangled disgracefully in harrowing tragedy, drawing bridges beyond lesser-explored traumas. Such life testimonials magnify cries for justice pivoting across time's silent raids, and they're reminders reckoning needed transparencies unwelcome to fortresses bolstering historical secrecy. Join Foul Play in acknowledging anecdotal voices perpetually challenging post-resilience constructed culture welded into indiscriminate dynamics embodying present-tense advocacy calling earth's silence-cleaving pendulum, pausing never. --- 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 Investigation with Gemma Jan 04, 2021

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"Baltimore: Sister Cathy Investigation with Gemma" sees Gemma Hoskins reflect on the tireless pursuit... As Season 2 stretches into heartfelt denouements, Foul Play frames Gemma Hoskins' relentless advocacy into a storytelling platform echoing justice for Sister Cathy. Cathy's aura as a guiding educator faced systemic coercions, symbolizing a beacon transcending her tragic fate. Her life resonates as a cause mobilizing modern battlers bearing resemblance to transformative personas she once inspired. This segue into her investigations' pulse champions historical evolutions, portraying personal commitment as key against bastions of secrecy. Join Gemma as she details a courageous path from being a passionate former pupil to engaging investigatory action, unphased by institutional inertia. Her narrative reminder reverberates in a time reprising commitment both to the past and advocacy savoring honest causalities born through public orchestration against suppressed realities. Gemma Hoskins embodies a dynamic involving righteousness not extinguished by tragedy mismanagement but fanning quests for redemption, now unignorable. Listeners are urged to embrace the continuity found in pressing forward with boundaries dismantled, catalyzed by interconnectedness formed aligning truth quests inevitably breaking disciplinary eigenvaluations. --- 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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