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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:

Baltimore: Child Abuse and Recovery Explored Jan 15, 2020

Show notes

"Baltimore: Child Abuse and Recovery Explored" invites us into a courageous journey of healing... In Foul Play's Season 2 episode exploring child abuse, hosts Shane and Gemma are joined by trauma expert Kate MacDowell to work through the dark corridors of recovery and resilience. Season 2 examines into the tragic circumstances surrounding Sister Cathy and the traumas lurking beneath the surface. Victims like those in Cathy's circle are remembered for their strength and potential, a message of hope amidst adversities. Child abuse in the 1960s and 70s was a whispered reality buried beneath societal shame and ignorance, but this case forces us to confront these grim truths. As Kate MacDowell shares her expertise, listeners gain profound insights into the psychological scars child abuse leaves and the empowerment that comes through healing. This episode attempts to change the narrative by giving survivors a voice and revealing the critical importance of recovery methods. Shane and Gemma's dialogue with Kate clarifies this complex issue, reminding us how important it is to support victims silently crying for justice. The historical context is key, reminding us of how far we've come and how much more there is to do in protecting our most vulnerable. This conversation is not just an exploration of the past, but a beacon guiding future efforts to break the cycle of abuse. Avoid the silence, join the conversation, and commit to an era where recovery is as accessible as prevention. --- 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 Forensic Reckoning Jan 08, 2020

Show notes

In "Baltimore: Sister Cathy's Forensic Reckoning," the insights of forensic expert Dr. Werner Spitz bring fresh perspectives... On this gripping episode of Foul Play, we examine the forensic intricacies behind Sister Cathy Cesnik's tragic murder. Season 2 of Foul Play examines deep into the complexities surrounding the murder case involving Sister Cathy, linking a web of secrets to hoarded power. Sister Cathy was more than a victim; she was a devoted teacher, inspiring young minds and challenging oppressive structures. Her untimely death resonated as not just a loss but a call to justice. This case holds immense historical significance as it intersects multiple societal issues, misuse of authority, systemic abuse, and cover-ups within powerful institutions, revealing how such structures cast long shadows. forensic veteran Dr. Werner Spitz shares vital insights, painting a clearer picture of the events surrounding Sister Cathy's death. His acclaimed expertise and poignant revelations make this narrative not just about the search for answers, but also a quest for accountability. The brutality inherent in this crime forces us to look at the cold efficiency with which institutions sometimes protect their image over individuals. The prevailing social conditions of the era allowed certain hard truths to be buried under layers of deceit, highlighting the courage of those who seek the truth today. This episode offers listeners an exclusive look into the factual conundrums of the case, showcasing forensic revelations and Dr. Spitz's expertise in piecing together a long-cold narrative. Tune in to understand the undercurrents of a society grappling with its own reflection in the mirror of 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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Baltimore: Sister Cathy Cover-Up Decoded 4 Jan 01, 2020

Show notes

Our investigation of the Baltimore cover-up concludes, aiming for clarity in Sister Cathy's case... In the fourth and final installment of this probing series, Shane and Tom Nugent confront unresolved questions about the murky circumstances surrounding Sister Cathy's death. Her unwavering dedication to students earned her respect and admiration in Baltimore schools, making her untimely death all the more shocking. Exploring her life highlights the quest for understanding a world where devotion might be met with darkness. This series is vital in unmasking institutional secrecy and seeking justice denied. Sister Cathy's case exemplifies enduring injustices and illustrates the intersection of faith, trust, and betrayal in close-knit communities. Throughout the investigation, Shane and Tom sift through obscured data, analyze missing reports, and synthesize interviews that suggest institutional conspiracy. The audacity of suppression in ecclesiastical circles during major societal shifts in 1969 illustrates the powerful forces protecting status quo over transparency. Revel in the synthesis of clues gathered over decades as Shane and Tom extract tangible truths from Sister Cathy's narrative, determining its significance despite years of silence and neglect. Join us in examining the last strands of this haunting mystery and the pursuit for closure. 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 Cover-Up Decoded 3 Dec 11, 2019

Show notes

The veil begins to lift on Sister Cathy's case as we explore part three of the Baltimore cover-up investigation... Shane and Tom Nugent continue their in-depth examination of the complexities surrounding Sister Cathy's fate. Her commitment to teaching and compassion made her a figure of inspiration, whose loss continues to echo. Before her murder, Sister Cathy strived to create a safe haven for her students, leaving an indelible impression of kindness in Baltimore. Recognizing her story is key in understanding systemic injustices and challenging the power structures that failed her. This investigation holds profound implications, especially considering allegations of a pervasive cover-up. The scenario encapsulates how institutions can manipulate narratives, using influence as a guise for justice, forcing society to reckon with uncomfortable truths. important aspects of the case are dissected, from concealed oversight within the church, through lapses in law enforcement diligence, to the suffocating silence that surrounded her death. Amidst the 1960s, a period defined by social upheaval and questioning of authority, her case revealed more than just individual plight, a societal conundrum. Tune in as Shane and Tom examine into unrevealed misconduct, analyzing how Sister Cathy became more than a victim; her story is one of reluctant revelation and sparks introspection on power and silence. 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 Cover-Up Decoded 2 Dec 04, 2019

Show notes

We examine deeper into the Baltimore cover-up mystery in part two of Sister Cathy's saga. The complex layers of subterfuge surrounding Sister Cathy's mysterious death examine further in this explosive episode. Shane and Tom Nugent advance their investigation into what truly transpired in Baltimore. Having entered the twilight of her career with aspirations to shield and enlighten youth, Sister Cathy was robbed of this mission. Her work as a teacher was characterized by her dedication and ability to engage with her students empathetically. Remembering her impact is essential for the pursuit of truth and closure. The case matters on multiple levels, it confronts the closed nature of religious institutions while questioning societal complacency toward such entities. Sister Cathy's death is a stark reminder of the pervasive silence that often engulfs communities when heinous acts are shrouded in divine protection. Details unfold highlighting conflicting police reports, potential cover-ups by church members, and the activism-inspired whispers that emerged in opposition to tangled authority lines. The turbulent landscape of the 60s offered little consolation to truth-seekers. The societal backdrop consisted of massive shifts, yet the walls erected by traditional institutions held firm, obfuscating truth. Eavesdrop on Shane's conversations with Tom as they work through these contentious waters, offering insights into the painful realities and focusing on gathering intelligence that might have slipped past official scrutiny, to understand Sister Cathy's lasting impact on justice movements. 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 Cover-Up Decoded 1 Nov 20, 2019

Show notes

Unveil the enigma of Sister Cathy's case with part one of our Baltimore cover-up series. Investigative journalist... Shane digs deep into the mystery surrounding Sister Cathy's death in Baltimore, alongside investigative journalist Tom Nugent, to uncover elements that have thwarted justice for decades. This episode sets the stage for a three-part exploration into the suspected cover-up affecting the case of Sister Cathy Cesnik, who was more than just a murder victim. A cherished educator, she had devoted her life to her students in Baltimore, blending patience and inspiration in her classrooms. Tragically, her life was cut short under suspicious circumstances. Understanding Sister Cathy's tale is vital, as it reflects broader systemic failings and potential abuses within powerful institutions. Her story reveals the complexities of faith, power, and silence within the Catholic Church and challenges listeners to examine the balance between sanctity and secrecy. examining into the case specifics, Tom Nugent discusses evidence omissions, potential suspects hidden behind clerical walls, and how official narratives may have misled the public. In an era when trust in institutions was crumbling amidst societal upheavals, the case was engulfed in secrecy and protected by influence. During the late 1960s, as Baltimore buzzed with civil rights momentum and rising societal awareness, Sister Cathy's case exposed the church to an unprecedented level of scrutiny and skepticism. Join Shane and Tom as they articulate the concealed truths and deliberate on why Sister Cathy's legacy necessitates a re-examination of forgotten evidence, cultural insights, and unyielding 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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Baltimore: Sister Cathy's Legacy Reflections Nov 08, 2019

Show notes

Reflect on the legacy of Sister Cathy in Baltimore as we commemorate five decades since a compassionate soul... Sister Cathy Cesnik's impact lingers in Baltimore even fifty years after her untimely demise, evoking memories of a life dedicated to teaching and kindness. In this reflective episode, we dive into the life of a woman who aspired to enlighten minds and hearts, leaving an indelible mark. The tragic passing of Sister Cathy Cesnik in 1969 robbed the Baltimore community of a beloved figure. Before the crime, she was a revered educator, known for her warmth and commitment to nurturing her students. Sister Cathy encapsulated the spirit of service and compassion, qualities that resonated deeply with those who knew her. The persistence of her memory speaks volumes about the cultural fissures of the era, a time when women in the church faced extensive constraints. The details surrounding Sister Cathy's murder remain a topic of intense interest, highlighting a possible suppression of truth involving authority figures and religious institutions. Her case was marked by investigative lapses and theories of clerical abuse, reflecting grave flaws in accountability systems of the time. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Baltimore, society grappled with civil rights movements and the questioning of institutional orthodoxy, which influenced the investigation's trajectory. hosts Shane and Gemma examine the layers of Sister Cathy's legacy through personal anecdotes and historical insights, painting a portrait of a community still mourning, yet honoring her memory. We remember her life and the lessons that continue to resonate. 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 and the Unthinkable Hunt Oct 30, 2019

Show notes

When George Brown's serendipitous discovery reignited the urgency for justice in Sister Cathy's... Shane and Gemma engage with the reluctant witness, examining his harrowing story. In Foul Play's Season 2 finale, a important fragment of Sister Cathy's unsolved murder surfaces through George Brown's eerie encounter, reminding us of the profound effects of crime on forgotten lives. As a beloved music teacher, Sister Cathy Cesnik worked to harmonize the discordant voices of her students, earning widespread respect and admiration that now enshrines her memory. Her early death cut short her burgeoning career and dream. Baltimore's 1969 unrest reflected national tensions, overshadowed by war and civil rights clashes. In this turbulent milieu, Cathy's unresolved murder became a scar that mirrored the city's fractured truths. George Brown's narrative dramatically revives the investigation's momentum, shedding unsettling light on the events and nonsense authorities pursuing justice ignored. His spirited conversation with Shane and Gemma offers genuine insights into unexpected heroism. Listeners will experience firsthand accounts of bizarre circumstances surrounding Cathy's death, as well as recounts of the lingering hope for a breakthrough in this heartbreaking case. What unfolds are intimate disclosures and determined resolve. Join us to explore the depths of grieved communities and the unwavering fight for justice in Sister Cathy's enduring mystery. --- 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 and Tom Nugent's Hunt 2 Oct 09, 2019

Show notes

Tom Nugent continues his relentless pursuit of answers with Shane and Gemma... examine deeper with this veteran journalist who unpacks layers of truth around Sister Cathy's unsolved murder. In the continued exploration of Sister Cathy Cesnik's case in Foul Play Season 2, we linger on the brink of discovery, entwining our narrative with relentless journalistic inquiry. Sister Cathy's enduring influence at Archbishop Keough High School magnified the sorrow and bewilderment following her disappearance. Her unsolved murder also infuses Baltimore's psyche with palpable fear, evoking both loss and defiance. Set against a backdrop of 1960s discord, Cathy's life and untimely death portray a complex narrative of institutional power struggles versus human dignity. Her case challenges authorities while vexing community conscience across decades. As Tom Nugent re-joins the discussion, he brings poignant narratives of those fighting for truth amidst an obstructionist atmosphere. His chronicling provides listeners with a glimpse behind the curtain of hidden dealings and systemic inertia that hinder justice. Listeners will discover how Season 2's stellar investigative team constructed their narrative, connecting disparate threads of tragedy and hope. Tom's revelations bring clarity to the seemingly chaotic dimensions of Cathy's story. We examine seeds of doubt and stage demands for overdue truth in Sister Cathy's haunting 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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Baltimore: Sister Cathy and Tom Nugent's Hunt 1 Oct 02, 2019

Show notes

In Sister Cathy's series milestone episode, investigative journalist Tom Nugent joins the... As Gemma and Shane intertwine the threads of journalism and crime-solving, they revisit the unresolved complexities of Sister Cathy's case. Season 2's Foul Play takes listeners into the haunting case of Sister Cathy Cesnik, whose murder eluded resolution, weaving its way into Baltimore's dark urban legend. Sister Cathy, a prospective educational reformer, faced her fate with steely bravery. A graduate of St. Mary's Seminary and University, her dedication to her students was indomitable. Prestigious yet humble, Sister Cathy strove to bridge educational gaps with her innovative teaching methods, exemplifying genuine devotion. The late 1960s was defined by upheaval and revolutionary ideals, with Cathy's disappearance emblematic of societal turbulence. As hatred collided with hope, her unsolved murder carried a piercing indictment of systemic failings and societal indifference. As Tom Nugent joins Shane and Gemma, they examine into his years-long quest to uncover the truth, piecing together elusive facts, buried leads, and shattered hopes. His insight into the ghostly whispers that linger over Baltimore provides a necessary, if unsettling, perspective. Listeners will dive into the careful world of investigative reporting, revealing how journalism can be both a guiding light and a consuming shadow. Tom's account enhances understanding of Sister Cathy's unsolved case and its ever-complicated legacy. We work through the coils of this dark chapter, balancing near-silence and fervent outcry 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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