Zone 7 with Sheryl McCollum

iHeartPodcasts
Zone 7 with Sheryl McCollum

Work a cold case alongside investigator Sheryl “Mac” McCollum, Director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute. Every week, Sheryl dives into her cold case files alongside accomplished guests to look for clues into unsolved murders, missing people, and more. This ain’t just a podcast but a war room. Sheryl opens her cold case files, her heart and her little black book! You will quickly realize Zone 7 is not a place but a lifestyle!

  1. 3D AGO

    3.7.25 CRU with Nancy Grace: Tot Mom’s Disturbing Move!

    Today Nancy Grace and Sheryl McCollum dive straight into a controversial topic by discussing Casey Anthony's a.k.a “tot mom” recent claim of being a victim's advocate. Nancy Grace passionately recounts the details of three-year-old Caylee Anthony's murder and criticizes Casey Anthony’s post-trial actions. Secondly, Nancy gives updates on the Kohberger case, addressing legal objections, DNA evidence, and defense strategies. Nancy and Sheryl explain the implications of DNA found under Maddie Mogen’s fingernails and discuss the impact on the investigation. Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome! Nancy and Sheryl introduce this week’s crime roundup    (0:10) Sherly opens up CRU with news regarding the latest on Casey Anthony (3:00) Latest move on Casey Anthony - money grab  (7:20) “It ain’t slander if it’s true.”  (9:00) Bryan Kohberger DNA analysis   (12:00) Understanding DNA degradation in criminal cases  (22:00) Kohbergers defense to try and exclude evidence and avoid death penalty   (25:00) Closing thoughts --- Nancy Grace is an outspoken, tireless advocate for victims’ rights and one of television's most respected legal analysts. Nancy Grace had a perfect conviction record during her decade as a prosecutor. She is the founder and publisher of CrimeOnline.com, a crime- fighting digital platform that investigates breaking crime news, spreads awareness of missing people and shines a light on cold cases.  In addition, Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, a daily show hosted by Grace, airs on SIRIUS XM’s Triumph Channel 111 and is downloadable as a podcast on all audio platforms - https://www.crimeonline.com/ Connect with Nancy:  X: @nancygrace Instagram: @thenancygrace Facebook: @nancygrace Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice.  Connect with Sheryl: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com X: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min

  2. 5D AGO

    How to Prevent Young People From Falling Victim to Predatory Criminals

    In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator Sheryl McCollum continues a previous discussion on the topic. She is joined for a Part II conversation by Dr. Katherine Ramsland and Tracy Ullman, two crime experts who have spent years investigating and documenting the case of Elmer Wayne Henley Jr. Today, they primarily discuss how predators manipulate young people. They explore why adolescents are particularly vulnerable, how predators groom not just individuals but entire communities, and the blurred line between victim and accomplice. Lastly, they share practical advice for parents, teachers, and counselors on recognizing warning signs and protecting young people from falling victim. Dr. Katherine Ramsland is a professor of forensic psychology at DeSales University. She has written over 70 books and appeared in more than 200 crime documentaries. Her work includes interviews with notorious criminals, including BTK (Dennis Rader). Tracy Ullman is a documentary producer and director who has worked on numerous true-crime series for Discovery and PBS. She is best known for her work on John Wayne Gacy: Devil in Disguise and her recent book with Dr. Ramsland, The Serial Killer's Apprentice. Elmer Wayne Henley Jr. joins Zone 7 as a special guest to provide personal insight into his mindset during his time with Corll. Resources: Zone 7 Part I The Serial Killer's Apprentice | The Story of Elmer Wayne Henley Jr. The Serial Killer's Apprentice How to catch a killer The Mind of a Murderer: A glimpse into the darkest corners of the human psyche, from a leading forensic psychiatrist John Wayne Gacy: Devil in Disguise Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum   (0:10) Sheryl welcomes back guests, Dr. Katherine Ramsland, Tracy Ullman, and Elmer Wayne Henley Jr. to Zone 7 (1:30) Understanding the adolescent brain  (5:00) Generational relationships in crime reduction (8:15) Grooming the community (11:15) The fine line between a victim and an accomplice  (16:00)  ”That's the most just in your face and accurate statement I've heard that if every parent that dropped their child off at the scout meeting could be fooled, how could that child not be?” (17:00) The Superbowl is the largest event for child trafficking to occur  (21:00) Warning signs for parents - what to watch for in at-risk youth  (22:30) “Education is the answer. Understanding is the answer. Involvement is the answer” (26:00) Final thoughts (28:00)  ”I have to accept that any child, because that's what I was, any child could be manipulated. Given the right buttons were pushed and Dean pushed all my buttons.” -Wayne Helmer Jr. Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!  --- Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice. Sheryl is also the founder and director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, a collaboration between universities and colleges that brings researchers, practitioners, students and the criminal justice community together to advance techniques in solving cold cases and assist families and law enforcement with solvability factors for unsolved homicides, missing persons, and kidnapping cases.   Social Links: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com Twitter: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum Instagram: @officialzone7podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min

  3. FEB 28

    2.28.25 CRU with Nancy Grace: The Epstein Files | Who’s On The List

    Today, Nancy Grace and Sheryl McCollum unpack the latest twists in the Brian Kohberger trial, where the defense is citing autism in an attempt to remove the death penalty. They also examine the mysterious deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, exploring possible causes and forensic clues. Plus, Nancy breaks down the newly unsealed Epstein files - what the names on the list could mean and the potential cover-ups or delays in making these documents public. Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome! Nancy and Sheryl introduce this week’s crime roundup    (0:30) CRU kicks off with a story from Nancy Grace’s early career   (4:00) Tribute to Dee Emerson  (9:30) Bryan Kohberger defense cites autism to get death penalty off table  (10:55)  ”All of these brilliant people had some degree of autism. Translation, that does not mean you cannot intend to do a crime, and it means you should not escape punishment for that crime.”  (11:30) Speculations on Gene Hackman case  (14:30) HAP Poem by: Thomas Hardy (17:00) Examining the placement of the pills found (18:30) Speculations of carbon monoxide poisoning   (22:00) The Epstein documents  (25:00) The systemic delays in prosecuting those connected to Epstein’s crimes (30:00) Darkside of when power is abused  --- Nancy Grace is an outspoken, tireless advocate for victims’ rights and one of television's most respected legal analysts. Nancy Grace had a perfect conviction record during her decade as a prosecutor. She is the founder and publisher of CrimeOnline.com, a crime- fighting digital platform that investigates breaking crime news, spreads awareness of missing people and shines a light on cold cases.  In addition, Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, a daily show hosted by Grace, airs on SIRIUS XM’s Triumph Channel 111 and is downloadable as a podcast on all audio platforms - https://www.crimeonline.com/ Connect with Nancy:  X: @nancygrace Instagram: @thenancygrace Facebook: @nancygrace Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice.  Connect with Sheryl: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com X: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    35 min

  4. FEB 26

    Karen Reed & Ellen Greenberg | Case Analysis, Forensic Missteps & A Day In The Life Of A Pathologist with Nicole Angemi & Maria Q. Kane

    What really happened to Karen Reed’s boyfriend, John O’Keefe? Was Ellen Greenberg’s death truly a suicide? In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, sits down with Nicole Angemi and Maria Kane to dissect two controversial cases that have divided public opinion. Nicole, a double board-certified pathologist assistant, and her daughter Maria, a podcaster and forensic storyteller, bring their sharp investigative minds to the table. Together, they analyze the evidence, question the science, and break down the missteps in both cases. Aside from the cases, Nicole also shares stories from her career, including some of the most bizarre things she has ever pulled from a body. Nicole Angemi is a double board-certified pathologist assistant and creator of the Instagram-famous Mystery Mondays, Nicole educates millions on forensic science. She is also the author of Anatomy Book: A Catalog of Familiar, Rare, and Unusual Pathologies. Listeners can learn more about Nicole Angemi on IG @Mrs_Angemi, @MotherKnowsDeath and wherever you listen to podcasts - Mother Knows Death  Maria Q. Kane is a podcast host, producer, and writer for The Gross Room, a blog-based website that focuses on pathology, anatomy, medicine, and forensic education. After graduating from The University of the Arts, Maria used her photography degree to enter the world of fashion styling. She worked on various productions ranging from pharmaceutical advertisements to coordinating the costume department of a major motion picture. Listeners can learn more about Maria Kane at her website on IG @mariaqkane, @MotherKnowsDeath and wherever you listen to podcasts - Mother Knows Death Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum   (0:30) Sheryl intoduces mother and daughter guests, Nicole Angemi and Maria Kane to Zone 7 (2:00)  ”They are both stunning, they're young, they're hip, and they cannot be grossed out.” (6:00) Case study on the Karen Reed case (8:30) Autopsy and hypothermia analysis (14:30) Skull fractures and racoon eyes (17:00) Debate around the source of injuries  (22:00) Social media pressure of this case - team Karen vs. team John (25:30) Discussing the forensic evidence  (32:00) Case comparison of Ellen Greenberg (33:00) The knife wounds (36:00) Medication and mental health factors (45:00) The impact of poor investigation (56:00) Personal stories  (1:00:00) “Some people are chosen for unpleasant jobs.” (1:05:00)  ”When I see a large group of people,  I wonder, how many of them are going to require an autopsy?” - George Carlin Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!  --- Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice. Sheryl is also the founder and director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, a collaboration between universities and colleges that brings researchers, practitioners, students and the criminal justice community together to advance techniques in solving cold cases and assist families and law enforcement with solvability factors for unsolved homicides, missing persons, and kidnapping cases.   Social Links: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com Twitter: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum Instagram: @officialzone7podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1h 6m

  5. FEB 21

    2.21.25 CRU with Nancy Grace: Idaho Judge Denies DNA Suppression in Kohberger Case - Here’s Why!

    Today, Nancy Grace and Sheryl McCollum dive into a major ruling in the Bryan Kohberger case, where the Idaho judge shut down multiple defense attempts to block key evidence - including DNA, cell phone data, and surveillance footage. Nancy gives a breakdown of the legal principles such as abandonment theory, the Fourth Amendment, and legal privilege so the public can better understand.. Nancy and Sheryl also discuss the latest heartbreaking stories of Hayden Manis, whose family only recently realized he’s been missing for five years, and Oakley Carlson, a little girl failed by the foster care system.  Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome! Nancy and Sheryl introduce this week’s crime roundup    (0:30) Update on legal cases across the country   (1:00) Hayden Manis missing for 5 years  (1:10) BOY, 4, VANISHES 5 YEARS AGO WITHOUT FAMILY REALIZING: WHERE'S HAYDEN  (3:30) Oakley Carlson's heartbreaking case  (4:30) Latest in Bryan Kohbergers case (5:30) Judge strikes down every defense attempt to suppress key evidence  (7:00) Nancy explains the abandonment theory and privacy   (12:30) Why the defense tried to fight investigative genetic genealogy  (16:00) The legal argument over whether Amazon purchase records should be private (18:00) Nancy uses Lori Vallow’s Amazon purchase to Kohbergers (22:00) Emotional toll behind crime and reasons to keep moving forward (25:30) Final sign off --- Nancy Grace is an outspoken, tireless advocate for victims’ rights and one of television's most respected legal analysts. Nancy Grace had a perfect conviction record during her decade as a prosecutor. She is the founder and publisher of CrimeOnline.com, a crime- fighting digital platform that investigates breaking crime news, spreads awareness of missing people and shines a light on cold cases.  In addition, Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, a daily show hosted by Grace, airs on SIRIUS XM’s Triumph Channel 111 and is downloadable as a podcast on all audio platforms - https://www.crimeonline.com/ Connect with Nancy:  X: @nancygrace Instagram: @thenancygrace Facebook: @nancygrace Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice.  Connect with Sheryl: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com X: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    26 min

  6. FEB 19

    15 Shootouts, 219 Medals, and the NYPD’s Toughest Detective, Ralph Friedman

    In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, sits down with retired detective Ralph Friedman, a legendary figure in law enforcement with over 2,000 arrests and 15 shootouts to his name. Ralph shares his unexpected journey into the police force and his experiences in the infamous 41st precinct, known as "Fort Apache." Ralph describes the undercover operations using taxi cabs and milk trucks to a life-threatening shootout in a darkened apartment. He also shares the wisdom gained from life-or-death encounters, the lessons that changed police protocol forever. Ralph Friedman is the most decorated detective in NYPD history, with 2,000 arrests and 219 medals to his name. He is the author of Street Warrior: The True Story of NYPD’s Most Decorated Detective and the Era That Created Him and was featured in the television series Street Justice: The Bronx. Listeners can learn more about Ralph Friedman at his website, on IG @bronxstreetwarrior Street Justice: The Bronx Street Warrior: The True Story of NYPD’s Most Decorated Detective and the Era That Created Him Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum   (0:10) Sheryl introduces guest, retired N.Y.P.D detective Ralph Freeman (2:00) How a spontaneous decision led to a legendary career (4:00) Ralph’s first encounter with a police officer shooting (6:00) A detective’s death changes police protocol forever (7:00) Using taxis, milk trucks, and even a Harley to catch criminals (12:30) The brotherhood of the NYPD (16:00) Saving a partner’s life (17:00) ”The other side of the coin is that, if you're taking a life, you're definitely saving at least one life.”  (19:30) Near-death encounters  (22:00) Unexpected career-ending incident (24:30) The most gangster thing detective Ralph ever did  (25:45) A gun deal turns into a deadly rooftop shootout (31:00) “ The rush is worth the risk.” -R.Freeman’s back tattoo Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!  --- Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice. Sheryl is also the founder and director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, a collaboration between universities and colleges that brings researchers, practitioners, students and the criminal justice community together to advance techniques in solving cold cases and assist families and law enforcement with solvability factors for unsolved homicides, missing persons, and kidnapping cases.   Social Links: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com Twitter: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum Instagram: @officialzone7podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min

  7. FEB 14

    2.14.25 CRU with Nancy Grace: Mystery DNA in the Kohberger Case - What That Could Mean For The Defense

    Today Nancy Grace and Sheryl McCollum open CRU with a heartfelt tribute to their friend and colleague, Dave Mack, following the loss of his wife, LaDonna. Despite his grief, Mack’s dedication to his work shines through. Nancy and Sheryl then dive into the latest developments in the Bryan Kohberger case, unpacking the discovery of two unidentified male DNA samples and what they could mean for the defense. They also revisit the case of Ellen Greenberg, a teacher whose suspicious death was ruled a suicide. When you purchase a copy of What Happened to Ellen?: An American Miscarriage of Justice all proceeds is going to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children - NCMEC Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome! Nancy and Sheryl introduce this week’s crime roundup    (0:10) Sheryl and Nancy honor LaDonna Mack  (5:00) Latest on Bryan Kohberger case - two mystery DNA samples (7:00) Unidentified male DNA samples - a glove found outside, another on a banister inside  (10:00) The controversy over demolishing the crime scene  (14:00) The defense’s strategy to creating doubt (18:30) Ellen Greenberg case  (21:00) What Happened to Ellen?: An American Miscarriage of Justice (26:00) Valentine’s plans and closing thoughts  --- Nancy Grace is an outspoken, tireless advocate for victims’ rights and one of television's most respected legal analysts. Nancy Grace had a perfect conviction record during her decade as a prosecutor. She is the founder and publisher of CrimeOnline.com, a crime- fighting digital platform that investigates breaking crime news, spreads awareness of missing people and shines a light on cold cases.  In addition, Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, a daily show hosted by Grace, airs on SIRIUS XM’s Triumph Channel 111 and is downloadable as a podcast on all audio platforms - https://www.crimeonline.com/ Connect with Nancy:  X: @nancygrace Instagram: @thenancygrace Facebook: @nancygrace Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice.  Connect with Sheryl: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com X: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min

  8. FEB 12

    The 2016 Indiana Arson That Took Four Young Lives — Remains Unsolved

    On November 21, 2016, a deadly house fire in Flora, Indiana, claimed the lives of four young sisters; Kerriele McDonald (7), Keyara Phillips (9) Keyana Davis (11), Kionnie Welch (5) who were trapped in their upstairs bedroom as flames engulfed the home. Within a few months of the fire, police had determined the fire was caused by arson. But eight years after the fire, the fire-starter hasn’t been caught. Guest Bio and Links: Captain Nicholle Brock is a highly experienced firefighter and paramedic with over 25 years in the Atlanta Fire Department. As an arson expert, active shooter instructor, and forensic fire investigator, she specializes in uncovering the truth behind fire-related crimes. She is also a certified drone pilot and Georgia Emergency Manager, using advanced technology to assist in investigations. In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, talks with Captain Nicholle Brock, a veteran firefighter with over 25 years of experience, to discuss the heartwrenching 2016 house fire in Indiana that took the lives of four young sisters. Nicholle and Sheryl discuss the investigative missteps, a mother’s fight for justice, and unsettling allegations of corruption. They break down the challenges of fire investigations, the emotional toll on first responders, and why this case remains unresolved while pushing for the answers these girls deserve.  The Indiana State Fire Marshal has offered a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for the fire. If you know anything, call 1-800-382-4628. Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum   (0:10) Sheryl welcomes guest, Nicholle (5:00) Background of the Flora Indiana house fire (10:00) The evidence surrounding the arson ruling  (15:00) Inconsistencies in the investigation (20:00) The insurance policies on the house (23:00) Indiana withholding records  (28:00) Key pieces of the evidence lost or contaminated? (34:20)  ”We continue on. We're gonna continue  just like we have been. I know it's not what people want to hear. But we're going to continue. And I really believe that one day we will know.” -Doug Carter Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!  --- Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice. Sheryl is also the founder and director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, a collaboration between universities and colleges that brings researchers, practitioners, students and the criminal justice community together to advance techniques in solving cold cases and assist families and law enforcement with solvability factors for unsolved homicides, missing persons, and kidnapping cases.   Social Links: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com Twitter: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum Instagram: @officialzone7podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    35 min
See All (172)

Trailer

Hosts & Guests

4.6
out of 5
33 Ratings

About

Work a cold case alongside investigator Sheryl “Mac” McCollum, Director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute. Every week, Sheryl dives into her cold case files alongside accomplished guests to look for clues into unsolved murders, missing people, and more. This ain’t just a podcast but a war room. Sheryl opens her cold case files, her heart and her little black book! You will quickly realize Zone 7 is not a place but a lifestyle!

Information

  • Channel
    iHeartPodcasts
  • Creator
    iHeartPodcasts and CrimeOnline
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    172
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    2025 iHeartMedia, Inc. © Any use of this intellectual property for text and data mining or computational analysis including as training material for artificial intelligence systems is strictly prohibited without express written consent from iHeartMedia
  • Show Website
    Zone 7 with Sheryl McCollum
  • Provider
    iHeartMedia + Entertainment, Inc

More From iHeartPodcasts

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada