True Crime

Two Crime Besties

Debriefing true crime stories with crime buffs Meg and Emma. Each week we take a look at a different case and discuss our thoughts and opinions with a touch of humour and respect.

Latest Episodes:

Episode 34 - Snowtown/Bodies in the Barrels: Part 1 Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, we discuss the overwhelming chaos of our lives before diving into the infamous Snowtown murders. We explore the backgrounds of the key perpetrators, including John Bunting, Robert Wagner, Mark Hayden, and Jamie Vlasakis, detailing their troubled upbringings and the events that led to the horrific crimes. The conversation highlights the psychological aspects of the perpetrators and the societal issues surrounding their actions, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the murders in the next episode.

Keywords

Snowtown murders, true crime, John Bunting, Robert Wagner, Mark Hayden, Jamie Vlasakis, crime podcast, Australian crime, criminal psychology, LGBTQIA+ issues

Sources and other links

"Snowtown", movie - Official Trailer

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Chapters

00:00 Navigating Overwhelm: The Struggles of Daily Life

06:02 Exploring Love Languages: Insights and Humor

11:48 Introduction to the Snowtown Murders: Setting the Scene

16:36 The Perpetrators: Backgrounds and Early Influences

30:01 The Charismatic Manipulator

33:19 Cult-like Influence and Ideology

35:14 The Troubling Backgrounds of Bunting's Associates

40:34 The Disturbing Dynamics of Relationships

46:14 The Spider Wall and Vigilante Justice

49:06 The Tragic Story of Jamie Vlasakis

59:04 The Cycle of Violence and Manipulation

Episode 33 - Charles Manson Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, we delve into the chilling story of Charles Manson and the Manson Family, exploring Manson's troubled upbringing, the formation of his cult, and the horrific murders of Sharon Tate and the LaBiancas. We discuss the psychological manipulation used by Manson, the brutal nature of the crimes, the subsequent investigation, and the trials that followed. The episode highlights the impact of these events on society and the legacy of fear and fascination they left behind.

Keywords

Charles Manson, Manson Family, Tate Murders, LaBianca Murders, cults, true crime, criminal psychology, 1960s, conspiracy, murder

Sources and other links

Mason : The Lost Tapes, Documentary, SBS on Demand

Charles Manson, Morbid Podcast, Part 1 and 2

You Must Remember Manson, Podcast

Charles Manson's first prison Interview, 60 Minutes Australia

Charles Manson interview with Diane Sawyer

If any of our content is distressing & you need to talk (Australia):

Lifeline Phone: 13 11 14

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Or please seek assistance in your country

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We have set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.

If you'd like to keep us caffeinated (or wined 😉) while we prep our next episode, please feel free to ⁠Click Here⁠ to buy us a coffee.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Two Crime Besties Episode 33

11:59 Exploring the Life of Charles Manson

27:30 The Formation of the Manson Family Cult

32:35 The Influence of Music and Culture on Manson

35:22 The Vulnerable Followers of Manson

39:43 Manson's Manipulation and Control

44:22 The Manson Family Dynamics

51:26 The Infamous Tate-LaBianca Murders

56:58 The Horrific Details of the Murders

01:05:48 The Aftermath of Atrocity

01:09:59 The LaBianca Murders

01:18:22 The Cult's Lifestyle and Arrests

01:22:07 Trial and Sentencing of the Manson Family

01:29:31 The Legacy of Charles Manson and His Followers

Episode 32 - Maria James Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, we discuss the transition back to routine after the school holidays, leading into a detailed exploration of the unsolved murder case of Maria Theresa James. We delve into Maria's life, the circumstances surrounding her death, and the subsequent investigation, highlighting key suspects including real estate agents and priests. The conversation emphasizes the emotional impact on Maria's family and the ongoing quest for justice, while also touching on the broader implications of institutional abuse and the importance of continued investigation.

Keywords

Maria Theresa James, true crime, unsolved murder, Victoria, Australia, crime podcast, investigative journalism, cold case, Father Bongiorno, Father O'Keeffe

Sources and other links

Trace Podcast, ABC listen

Coronors Report - Finding into the death and inquest of Maria James.

If any of our content is distressing & you need to talk (Australia):

Lifeline Phone: 13 11 14

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Or please seek assistance in your country

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We have set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.

If you'd like to keep us caffeinated (or wined 😉) while we prep our next episode, please feel free to ⁠Click Here⁠ to buy us a coffee.

Stay curious, crime besties!

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back and Routine Resumption

08:10 The Case of Maria Theresa James

38:26 Exploring Suspects in the Maria James Case

44:42 Uncovering Dark Secrets: The Church's Betrayal

51:56 The Impact of Trauma: Adam's Story

57:30 The Investigation: A Web of Deceit

01:03:36 The Cult Connection: A Sinister Network

01:09:24 The Legal System: Failures and Injustices

01:15:48 The Ongoing Search for Justice

01:21:31 Speculations and Theories: Who Was Involved?

01:27:37 Looking Ahead: Hope for Closure

Episode 31 - Carole Baskin Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode we delve into the life of Carole Baskin from the Tiger King. They discuss her early life, traumatic experiences, tumultuous marriage to Don Lewis, and the establishment of their wildlife rescue centre. The conversation is filled with humour, insights, and the unique perspectives. The conversation delves into the complex and controversial world of big cat rescue, focusing on the intertwined lives of Carole Baskin, Don Lewis, and Joe Exotic. It explores the ethical dilemmas of animal rescue, the dynamics of volunteerism, and the mysterious disappearance of Don Lewis, leading to various theories about his fate. The discussion also touches on the sensationalism of the Tiger King documentary and the ongoing rivalry between Carole and Joe, culminating in a reflection on the implications of their actions and the broader issues of wildlife conservation.

Keywords

true crime, Carol Baskin, Tiger King, family adventures, Don Lewis, wildlife rescue, Joe Exotic, big cat rescue, animal rights, disappearance, investigation, conspiracy theories

Sources and other links

The Tiger King - docuseries, Netflix

Shooting Joe Exotic - Louis Theroux Doumentary, Stan

Various Articles

https://www.tampabay.com/news/crime/2020/03/31/hillsborough-sheriff-says-tips-are-coming-in-tiger-king-missing-millionaire-case/

https://stylecaster.com/entertainment/tv-movies/1099847/what-happened-to-carole-baskin-husband-tiger-king-netflix/

https://charleyproject.org/case/jack-donald-lewis

https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/extras/disappearance-on-easy-street/67-396338130

If any of our content is distressing & you need to talk (Australia):

Lifeline Phone: 13 11 14

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Or please seek assistance in your country

Check us out on our socials for images and updates:

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

We have now set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.

If you'd like to keep us caffeinated (or wined 😉) while we prep our next episode, please feel free to ⁠Click Here⁠ to buy us a coffee.

Stay curious, crime besties!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

07:51 The Tiger King Phenomenon

10:24 Carol Baskin's Early Life and Trauma

12:18 Carol's Relationships and Marriages

18:41 Don Lewis: The Eccentric Millionaire

29:34 Wildlife on Easy Street: The Rescue Center

31:55 The Entrepreneurial Spirit Behind Big Cat Rescue

33:18 The Hierarchy of Volunteers and Their Commitment

37:10 Don's Affinity for Costa Rica and His Plans

38:46 The Complex Relationship Between Don and Carol

44:36 The Mysterious Disappearance of Don Lewis

50:13 Theories Surrounding Don's Disappearance

01:01:38 The Controversial Will and Its Implications

01:05:29 Family Dynamics and Financial Support

01:12:23 The Disappearance of Don Lewis

01:17:49 Joe Exotic: Charisma and Controversy

01:27:27 Theories Surrounding Don's Fate

01:34:54 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

01:37:18 Introduction to the "Four Crime Besties: Kids Podcast"

01:38:07 Exploring the Cereal Killer Mystery

Episode 30 - Karlie and Khandalyce (The Lost Girls) Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Two Crime Besties, we delve into the tragic case of Karlie Pierce-Stevenson and her daughter Khandalyce Pierce. We discuss the emotional toll of the case, and the investigation that followed the discovery of skeletal remains in the Belanglo State Forest. The episode covers the identification of the victims through DNA, the dark actions of Daniel James Holdom, and the eventual justice served with his sentencing. We reflect on the lasting impact of this case on the families involved and the importance of remembering the victims.

Keywords

True Crime, Karlie Pierce, Khandalyce Pierce, Daniel Holdom, Crime Podcast, Murder Investigation, Australian Crime, Family Tragedy, Child Murder, Podcast Episode

Sources and other links

"The Lost Girls" by Ava Benny-Morrison

Court Transcripts

If any of our content is distressing & you need to talk (Australia):

Lifeline Phone: 13 11 14

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Or please seek assistance in your country

Check us out on our socials for images and updates:

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⁠Facebook⁠

We have now set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.

If you'd like to keep us caffeinated (or wined 😉) while we prep our next episode, please feel free to ⁠Click Here⁠ to buy us a coffee.

Stay curious, crime besties!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Milestones

09:20 Warning and Introduction to Carly and Candelice

18:04 Discovery of Remains in Blangalow State Forest

27:43 The Suitcase Discovery and Investigation

35:35 Identifying Candelice and Carly

41:55 Carly's Relationship and the Events Leading Up to Tragedy

45:34 The Impact of Friendship and Drugs

50:04 The Tragic Accident

53:26 The Aftermath and Family Dynamics

55:21 Daniel's Troubled Past

58:01 Karlie's Family and Their Struggles

01:02:18 The Disappearance of Karlie and Khandalyce

01:04:42 The Horrific Events in Belanglo Forest

01:09:01 The Investigation and Discovery

01:15:04 The Trial and Sentencing

01:29:10 The Lasting Impact on Families

Episode 29 - Robert Durst Jan 20, 2025

Show notes

Summary:

This episode delves into the complex and chilling case of Robert Durst, exploring his early life, relationships, and the series of events leading to the disappearances and murders of Kathy McCormack, Susan Berman and Morris Black. We discuss the psychological aspects of Durst's character, the impact of his family dynamics, and the legal proceedings that followed his actions. The conversation also touches on the media portrayal of Durst through the documentary 'The Jinx' and the implications of his actions on those around him.

Keywords: Robert Durst, true crime, podcast, Kathy McCormack, Susan Berman, Morris Black, Jinx, crime investigation, murder, family dynamics

Sources and other links:

The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst - HBO series 1 & 2

All Good Things (2010), Movie

If any of our content is distressing & you need to talk (Australia):

Lifeline Phone: 13 11 14

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Or please seek assistance in your country

Check us out on our socials for images and updates:

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

We have now set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.

If you'd like to keep us caffeinated (or wined 😉) while we prep our next episode, please feel free to ⁠Click Here⁠ to buy us a coffee.

Stay curious, crime besties!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

05:59 Engagement and Shoutouts

11:52 The Life of Robert Durst

17:58 Robert Durst's Relationships and Marriage

24:00 Cathy's Disappearance and Investigation

30:39 The Mysterious Disappearance of Cathy

34:29 The Role of Friends and Family

36:41 Susan Berman: The Key Figure

39:43 The Marriage of Convenience

48:08 The Death of Susan Berman

53:48 Robert Durst's Disguise and Arrest

01:00:21 The Murder of Morris Black

01:02:14 The Evidence and Its Implications

01:06:03 The Trial and Its Outcomes

01:10:06 The Jinx and Its Revelations

01:13:23 The Aftermath and Ongoing Investigations

01:25:59 The Dark Legacy of Robert Durst

Episode 28 - Keli & Tegan Lane Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

Summary:

This episode we delve into the complex and tragic story of Keli Lane, a woman whose life was marked by a series of pregnancies, secrets, and ultimately, the disappearance of her child, Tegan. The discussion explores Keli's early life, her athletic career, the circumstances surrounding her pregnancies, the investigation into Tegan’s disappearance, and the subsequent legal proceedings. The conversation highlights the impact of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the failures of the legal system in addressing Keli's situation. Ultimately, the inquest concluded that Tegan was most likely dead, but the lack of evidence leaves many questions unanswered.

Keywords:

Keli Lane, Tegan Lane, true crime, Australia, missing child, investigation, inquest, adoption, family dynamics, legal proceedings

Sources and other links:

Exposed: The Case of Keli Lane - Docuseries, ABC iView

If any of our content is distressing & you need to talk (Australia):

Lifeline Phone: 13 11 14

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Or please seek assistance in your country

Check us out on our socials for images and updates:

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

We have now set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.

If you'd like to keep us caffeinated (or wined 😉) while we prep our next episode, please feel free to ⁠Click Here⁠ to buy us a coffee.

Stay curious, crime besties!

Chapters:

00:00 New Year Reflections and Personal Growth

09:56 The Kelly Lane Case: A Complex Story

20:13 Kelly's Early Life and Family Dynamics

30:06 Pregnancies and Decisions: A Troubling Pattern

38:00 New Chapter

01:13:52 Exploring Kelly's Family Dynamics

01:16:48 The Inquest and Search for Teagan

01:19:10 Theories on Tegan’s Fate

01:24:17 Legal Proceedings and Conviction

01:31:32 The Complexity of Truth and Lies

Bonus Episode: Q & A Jan 06, 2025

Show notes

Summary

This is a fun bonus episode to enjoy over the holiday break! Get to know a little more about us. In this Q&A style episode, we reflect on our personal lives, share insights about our families, hobbies, and experiences, and discuss our journey into podcasting. We explore themes of personal growth, the challenges of parenting, favourite pastimes, and the impact of aging. The conversation is filled with humour, nostalgia, and a genuine connection between the two of us, your true crime besties!

Check us out on our socials for images and updates:

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

We have now set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.

If you'd like to keep us caffeinated (or wined 😉) while we prep our next episode, please feel free to ⁠Click Here⁠ to buy us a coffee.

Stay curious, crime besties!

Chapters

00:00 New Year, New Beginnings

03:07 Behind the Scenes of Podcasting

05:56 Personal Backgrounds and Life Changes

09:18 Favorite Colors and Happy Moments

12:07 Family Dynamics and Relationships

15:17 Late Night Snacks and Food Preferences

18:01 Reflections on Age and Maturity

20:54 Board Games and Childhood Memories

24:06 First Cars and Their Stories

26:51 Sports and Hobbies Growing Up

30:02 Sleeping Positions and Quirks

31:41 Wine Preferences and Experiences

35:19 Favorite Podcasts and Their Impact

40:02 Researching for the Podcast

42:48 School Subjects and Academic Experiences

49:50 What Gives You the Ick?

51:28 The Birth of the Podcast Idea

55:18 Listener Engagement and Future Plans

Episode 27 - Grace Millane Dec 16, 2024

Show notes

Summary

This episode we delve into the tragic story of Grace Mullane, a young British woman who was murdered while traveling in New Zealand. We discuss her background, travels, and the events leading up to her disappearance. We explore the investigation that followed, focusing on Jesse Kempson, the man charged with her murder. The episode covers the trial, the verdict, and the impact of Grace's story on society, particularly regarding safety and domestic violence awareness.

Keywords

Grace Mullane, Jesse Kempson, true crime, New Zealand, murder case, podcast, crime stories, investigation, trial, domestic violence

Links and other sources

The Lie: The Murder of Grace Millane - Netflix Documentary

⁠Grace Millane Trial: Closing Arguments⁠ - The Gaudian

⁠Grace Millane Murder: Rough Sex Defence Questioned⁠ - The Huffington Post

If any of our content is distressing & you need to talk (Australia):

Lifeline Phone: 13 11 14

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Or please seek assistance in your country

Check us out on our socials for images and updates:

⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

We have now set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.

If you'd like to keep us caffeinated (or wined 😉) while we prep our next episode, please feel free to ⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠ to buy us a coffee.

Stay curious, crime besties!

Chapters

00:00 The Life of Grace Mullane

16:13 Grace's Journey to New Zealand

19:27 The Disappearance of Grace Mullane

22:16 The Investigation Begins

25:26 CCTV Footage and Key Evidence

28:10 The Date with Jesse Kempson

31:27 The Aftermath of the Date

34:19 Who is Jesse Kempson?

37:31 Jesse's Troubled Past

40:21 The Police Interrogation

43:14 The Search for Grace

49:55 Unraveling Lies: The Investigation Begins

52:45 CCTV Footage: A Timeline of Suspicion

56:12 The Tinder Date: A Disturbing Encounter

01:03:12 Confessions and Contradictions: The Accused's Story

01:07:50 The Trial: Consent and Misinterpretation

01:14:26 The Verdict: Justice for Grace

01:22:01 Legacy of Love: Remembering Grace

Episode 26 - The Beaumont Children Dec 09, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, we discuss the tragic case of the Beaumont children, who disappeared from Glenelg Beach, South Australia in 1966. The conversation explores the investigation, the various suspects, and the profound impact this case had on the families involved and Australian society as a whole. The episode highlights the emotional toll of ambiguous loss and the ongoing search for answers in this cold case.

Keywords

Beaumont children, true crime, Australia, missing children, unsolved cases, Christmas stress, parenting, crime podcast

Sources and other links

If any of our content is distressing & you need to talk (Australia):

Lifeline Phone: 13 11 14

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Or please seek assistance in your country

Check us out on our socials for images and updates:

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

We have now set up “Buy Me a Coffee”.