House of Mystery Radio on NBC - TopPodcast.com

View Top 200 Chart

Back to Rankings Page

House of Mystery Radio on NBC — History
House of Mystery Radio on NBC

Many talented people’s writings and movies address the deep, dark mysteries of our world — across both Fiction (Horror, Crime, Sci-Fi, Action-Adventure, Romance, LGBT) and Non-Fiction (Crime, History, Science, Paranormal) stories.

Please step into the “House of Mystery” 5 nights a week and join us as we go deep into the creative process behind our esteemed guests’ works.

Past Guests in Non-Fiction have included Marcia Clark (of the O.J. Simpson trial), Robert Kennedy, Jr., Jesse Ventura, Burl Barer, Nancy Grace, Aphrodite Jones, Mark Olshaker, Anne Bremner (on Amanda Knox), F. Lee Bailey, Tom Mesereau (on Bill Cosby, Michael Jackson), Roger Stone (on the JFK Assassination), Dan Abrams, Juan Martinez (on Jodi Arias), Michael Hawley (on Jack the Ripper), and Michael Butterfield (on the Zodiac Killer).

Past Guests in Fiction have included Eric Shapiro, George Weir, John Copenhaver, Lee Goldberg, Gregory Ashe, J.D. Horn, Rick Poldark, Greg F. Gifune, Michael Bland, Geoff Symon, Gabriel Rottello, James Polchin, Lev Raphael, and Robert Fieseler.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Latest Episodes:

Andrews & Wilson - Dark Rising May 10, 2025

Show notes

In this fourth installment of the Shepherds Series, good and evil collide in a battle that has raged for thousands of years, and Navy SEAL Jedidiah Johnson and his team are at the tip of the spear—fighting for humanity’s future and the ones they love.

Victor is dead. But out of the chaos, a new dark power rises …

Only weeks ago, former Navy SEAL Jedidiah Johnson, head of Joshua Bravo team at the Shepherds, helped to defeat Victor, the leader of the devil’s Dark Ones. Now, his boss, Ben Morvant, has tasked him with an even harder mission: Take a vacation.

But before Jed has even managed to hit the beach in the Dominican Republic, he comes face-to-face with a new evil: Orphans are being abducted right off the streets of Santo Domingo. Are these disappearances just an unfortunate crime in an unfamiliar country, or do they hint at something bigger—a new threat emerging out of the power vacuum Victor left behind?

When Jed needs help after a violent encounter, he finds himself with an unexpected new ally: CIA liaison Gayle James. Together, the two of them must follow the trail of the missing orphans before it runs cold. Soon they find themselves immersed in a dangerous world of murder, betrayal, and voodoo. Jed will need Gayle, the Watchers Sarah Beth and Corbin, his old friend Ben Morvant, and the entire team of Shepherds at his side to expose the new threat—and to prevent a new dark power from rising …

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Zodiac Killer - Michael Butterfield May 09, 2025

Show notes

More than 50 years after the Zodiac Killer mysteriously vanished, his crimes and letters still haunt the world.

The Zodiac Killer conducted a campaign of terror in the late 1960s, killing seven victims before taunting investigators through a series of cryptic letters, clues and coded messages sent to local newspapers.

For more than five decades, investigators have searched for the identity of the Zodiac Killer. Hoaxes and forged letters fueled an ongoing media circus while the mystery inspired TV documentaries, feature films, books, websites, podcasts, and even copycat killers.

This compelling biography is written by Michael Butterfield, a writer and researcher who has been investigating the Zodiac case for more than 30 years. He separates fact from fiction and lays out what we know about the crimes, the mysteries and the theories surrounding the case, its legacy in popular culture, and where the investigation stands today.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael McGarrity - Night in the City May 06, 2025

Show notes

Accused of the murder of his former lover, Korean War veteran Sam Monroe is forced to abandon his job as an assistant district attorney and fight to clear his name.

Sam Monroe thought his steamy love affair with Manhattan socialite Laura Nielson was dead and buried, but when she didn’t show up after unexpectedly calling him late at night and asking to meet, he decides to investigate. He finds her naked on her penthouse balcony, strangled, his dog tags wrapped around her neck. With a bull’s-eye on his back as the prime suspect, Sam begins a search for the killer that reveals Laura’s involvement with several men, some with ties to a well-known crime family.

As circumstantial evidence mounts against him, the cops close in, especially a heavy-handed rogue patrolman carrying a grudge against Sam and looking for serious payback. Forced to operate in the shadows, he relies on the unofficial help of several coworkers in the DA’s office and Debora Jean Ryan, a private investigator who offers to assist but has an agenda that she refuses to disclose. As they probe Laura’s past looking for clues, they must also figure out Laura’s mysterious trip out west, the death of a young man in New Jersey during her childhood, and who is making attempts on his life.

From the crime-ridden precincts of Lower Manhattan, the mean streets of Spanish Harlem, and the lofty mansions along Millionaires’ Row, Night in the City is classic crime noir fiction at its best that wonderfully evokes the vibrant world of 1950s New York. Michael McGarrity again proves himself to be one of the most accomplished writers of mysteries working today.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jerry Jamison - Vanishing Act May 03, 2025

Show notes

Over a span of 39 years, 23 aliases, 28 arrests in 20 cities, and nearly a dozen imprisonments, Robert Spears had lived a con artists' life of unparalleled adventure and intrigue. This is his story.

Shortly before Thanksgiving Day in 1959, a plane exploded in mid-air, killing all 42 passengers and crew and leaving scattered debris and bodies across the otherwise tranquil Gulf waters. Listed on the manifest was Dr. Robert Spears—once the highly regarded president of the Texas Naturopathic Association. Father of two small children with a lovely, society-minded wife and an elegant home in an exclusive neighborhood, it was a monumental tragedy for them as it was for all the souls lost that day.

Less than two months later, Robert Spears miraculously “rose from the dead” in Phoenix where he was promptly arrested. Headlining newspapers nationwide—“Man Downs Airliner to Fake Death”—Spears was discovered to have cleverly switched identities, persuaded his friend, Al Taylor, to fly with his plane ticket, asked him to carry “a package” on board, and drove away in his buddy’s car with his wallet and driver’s license.

As the FBI began to investigate, they uncovered a stunning, mind-bending tale of murder, abortion rings, and false identities—more than 25 aliases for Spears alone—as well as insurance scams and investment fraud that stretched over decades.

But that was far from the end of the story.

Methodically and carefully researched for years and meticulously sourced by a research sociologist and author, Vanishing Act is one of the great true crime stories of our time and a compelling read that is paced like a page-turning, mystery novel. Until now, the complete and shocking story has never been told.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dary Matera - Charles Manson Behind bars May 03, 2025

Show notes

This is the gripping story of the real Charles Manson as told by his long-time prison administrator, counselor, unofficial "press agent," and confidant, Ed George.

“Throughout my life, people have asked me about Manson. . . .

‘Does he have hypnotic powers?’ ‘Does he have a diabolical charisma?’ . . .

‘Is he crazy?’ My response is that for some people, the answer to all of the above is yes—except for the last question.” —EDWARD GEORGE

Charles Manson was perhaps the most infamous criminal of the twentieth century. Convicted for orchestrating the shocking Tate-LaBianca murders in 1969, and for two other killings, there has been much written about him. But not many people knew him as well as Edward George, who over years of conversations with Manson as his prison administrator, counselor, unofficial “press agent,” and confidant, gained deep insight into Manson’s mind-set. In this updated edition of George’s riveting account, he illuminates the many sides of Manson: charismatic cult leader, master manipulator, calculated “showman,” sly trickster, and more. George and his coauthor, Dary Matera, begin by detailing the troubling events of Manson’s youth, the historic 1969 murders, and the subsequent trial that ended an era. They then pull back the curtain on the intense reality of Manson’s turbulent life behind bars and the events that have transpired since the initial publication of this book in 1999, including Manson’s death in 2017.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mark Hewitt - Charles Manson Behind Bars May 02, 2025

Show notes

For more than 40 years, Charles Manson languished in prison for his participation in the Manson family murders of 1969. He was America's icon of evil, the one who brought down the curtain on the 1960s. He was never a quiet inmate, either. From his unbridled outbursts of rage to his tender acts of generosity, he made his presence felt to everyone around him. Over time, he parlayed his notoriety, through clever manipulation and shrewd alliances, to great power behind bars. He inspired awe in other inmates, he cozied up to prison guards who were more than eager to do him favors, and he was responsible for countless staff transfers within and outside of the institution.

This book details the dramatic journey of Willie Mendez, a troubled inmate, housed next to the serial killer for more than a year. Willie became institutionalized after repeated violations of the law, including attempted murder and armed robbery. He is serving a 68-year prison sentence. Author Mark Hewitt was introduced to Mendez by Charles Manson, who thought the two had similar ideas and a shared optimism about life. From his initial feelings of contempt toward the aging killer, Willie, nicknamed, "Boxcar," by Manson, traveled to a place of openness and acceptance of the old man's ideas. Over time, he began to defer more and more to Manson without reservation. The relationship eventually soured when some of Manson's claims were proven false. Through great internal strength, and the support of others, Willie distanced himself from the cult leader. Finally, he was able to extricate himself completely from Manson's manipulations.

This is a tale of growth and maturity that contains intimate details and shocking jailhouse secrets. Willie shares an insider's view of Charles Manson, his crazy behavior, his whispered confessions, and his sometimes profound wisdom.

"Charlie" speaks openly about his sexuality, shares some vivid details of the Tate and LaBianca murders, and relates his childhood experience of being forced to wear a dress to school. The iconic killer described for him the many people who influenced him, some when he was a child, others, during his adulthood.

Willie describes the episode in which Charlie made and wore a Ku Klux Klan outfit to stir up trouble on the tier. He shares his discovery of Manson's intricate artwork, including the creative techniques used to produce masterpieces behind bars. He details Manson's trip to the shower where the aging killer walked into the water fully clothed. Willie gives us profound insight into Manson's personality and character through stories that illustrate the killer's false bravado, his feigned insane behavior, and a few deep-seated insecurities.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brad Taylor - Into the Gray Zone Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

Pike Logan uncovers a geopolitical scheme that has spiraled out of control in India in this latest pulse-pounding thriller from New York Times bestselling author and former special forces officer Brad Taylor.

While on a routine security assessment in India, Taskforce operator Pike Logan foils an attempted attack on a meeting between the CIA and India’s intelligence service. Both government agencies believe it’s nothing more than a minor terrorist attack, but Pike suspects that something much more sinister is at play. After another terrorist operation at the Taj Mahal, he begins to believe that outside powers are attacking India in the gray zone between peace and war, leveraging terrorist groups for nothing more than economic gain. But the separatists conducting the operations have their own agenda.

After a massive slaughter and kidnapping of hostages during an elaborate Indian pre-wedding party, two global powers are destabilized, and only Pike Logan and his team can de-escalate the tension by rescuing the captives. What follows is a race against the clock that winds through the bustling markets of Old Delhi, the luxurious resorts of Goa, and the epic halls of the Taj Mahal. It will take everything that Logan and the taskforce have to foil an intricate plot that leaves countless lives in the balance.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Compson Sater - Thirst Apr 25, 2025

Show notes

Some Thirsts Can't be Quenched

Thirst dives into the lives of Neil Graham, a country club bartender, and Ranger Melusky, a sexy and charming small-town auto mechanic who’s irresistible but complicated. A chance encounter leaves Neil captivated by Ranger’s rough charm, but there’s a catch—Ranger only lets his true self emerge after a few too many drinks. Neil wants something real, and he hopes Ranger might, too, despite his struggle with identity and acceptance.

When an accident with his truck forces Ranger to sober up, he decides to cut ties with his old life, including Neil, and takes a misguided plunge into marriage. Heartbroken, Neil seeks a new purpose. He quits the country club bar and concentrates on repairing the fractured relationship between his father and grandfather—two men divided by secrets and pride.

Just as Neil finds his footing, Ranger returns, ready and anxious to rekindle the flame they once shared. Now, both men must confront their fears and decide: Is the love they left behind worth the struggle? Or will the road ahead only lead to another crash?

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen G. Eoannou - After Pearl Apr 24, 2025

Show notes

1942. War rages in Europe. Pearl Harbor still smolders. And alcoholic private eye Nicholas Bishop wakes up on a hotel room floor with two slugs missing from his .38 revolver. The cops think he’s murdered lounge singer Pearl DuGaye, mobsters think he saw something he shouldn’t have, and Bishop remembers nothing… Together with his indomitable assistant Gia Alessi, who he may or may not have fired, a WWI vet who often flashes back to 1918, and a one-eyed female dog named Jake, Bishop tries to piece together the events that took place during his disastrous five-day bender. Along the way, he stumbles across a dirty politician, a socialite and her unfaithful husband, and a cabal of American Nazis who are undoubtedly up to no good. Written in the spirit of classic noir, Eoannou adds his own unique voice and flair to the genre in this, the first action-packed outing of the Nicholas Bishop Mysteries…

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel Meltz - Rabbis of the Garden State Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

In the suburbs of New Jersey, where temple gossip flows like Manischewitz wine, eleven-year-old Andy becomes entangled in a whirlwind of maternal quirks and religious intrigue. His mother’s bizarre obsession with Rabbi Landy transforms their once-quiet life above a candy store into a tale of surprises.

Andy’s world features a colorful cast: a fiery sister, an invisible brother, a precociously sexual savant best friend with green teeth, and a foul-mouthed neighbor who rivals the 50-Foot Woman. As he navigates from confusion to understanding, his journey is filled with humor and heartfelt moments.

When forced into yeshiva with the rabbi’s insufferable sons, Andy becomes drawn to his magnetic Talmud teacher, Rabbi Loobling. His exploration of faith, desire, and family secrets unfolds from the streets of the Garden State to the halls of college, revealing the complex adults around him.

Rabbis of the Garden State delivers a sharp look at synagogue life laced with teenage yearning. This powerful portrayal of suburban Jewish life in the ’60s is both funny and moving. As Andy transitions to adulthood, the mysteries of childhood unravel, exposing secrets and deep truths about family, faith, and the unexpected twists of love. Daniel Meltz’s beautifully crafted debut novel captures the spirit of an era and delves into the timeless questions of belonging, belief, and the complicated relationships that shape us all.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Related Podcasts