The In Between Podcast with Mel Barrett

The In Between Podcast with Mel Barrett
  • 4.6 (152)
  • TRUE CRIME

There’s the official story. And then there’s the truth. The In Between is an investigative narrative podcast that digs into cases where the facts got buried, distorted, or deliberately ignored. Hosted by journalist and screenwriter Mel Barrett, each season unpacks one story that was never fully told, blending deep reporting, legal analysis, and raw personal narrative. Mel doesn’t just rehash headlines—she goes digging. She’s spent over a decade uncovering new evidence in the Pamela Smart case, work that helped form the basis of a new habeas petition. In Season One, she revisits the trial that made Smart a national villain—and questions everything we thought we knew. Season Two, From Victim to Accused: The Veronika Rodriguez Story, pulls back the curtain on a case where a 26-year-old Air National Guard member reported a sexual assault—and ended up the one in handcuffs. What happened next is more than a miscarriage of justice. It’s a warning. This is the space between the crime and the courtroom, the headlines and the hidden truth. This is The In Between. Join the Investigator Club for AD FREE, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content of The In Between Podcast: https://patreon.com/TheInBetweenPodcastwithMelBarrett?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Follow The In Between Podcast at: IG: @TheInBetweenPodOfficial FB: @TheInBetweenPod Bluesky: @inbetweenpod TikTok: @jackofalltradesdc Web: inbetweenpod.com

  1. Kelsey Fitzsimmons recap, AFROMAN Civil Trial, + Chris Albert tries to read a statement?

    2H AGO

    Kelsey Fitzsimmons recap, AFROMAN Civil Trial, + Chris Albert tries to read a statement?

    In this episode, we unpack a whirlwind week of legal maneuvers and local drama. We start with a comprehensive Kelsey Fitzsimmons recap, then, we shift gears to the Afroman civil trial. What happens when a viral music video meets a lawsuit from the law enforcement officers who raided his home? We discuss the intersection of art, privacy, and the police.  Back in Canton, the tension at the Selectboard meeting reaches a boiling point. We analyze Chris Albert’s official statement, the public reaction, and how the town’s leadership is navigating the intense scrutiny.  Plus, we dive into the details of the infamous 400-person party, examining the social ties between Peg O’Keefe and the McAlberts and why this gathering has become a focal point for those questioning the official narrative.  Finally, we cover two major breaks in the professional and legal world: Kelly Dever’s resignation from the Boston Police Department—because she wants to (!) and Aidan Kearney (Turtleboy) loses a key battle as his motion to dismiss the Cosgrove charges is denied.  We explain the legal reasoning behind the judge's decision and what it means for the upcoming trial.  Don't forget to subscribe, like, comment, and request to join our private Facebook group! - Something's Off with Mel Barrett + Rebecca Lavoie  If you want to watch the Impact x Nightline episode that Mel is featured in about Pamela Smart's new legal fight, watch it here: https://www.hulu.com/series/98fb0a9b-...If you like us, please tip us:  venmo: @melbarrettwrites  cashapp: cash.app/$SomethingsOffTips  paypal: paypal.me/MelBarrett11You can now join the YouTube channel! When you become a member Rebecca will send you free stickers! Click the join button to select your favorite level.  Follow @realmelbarrett on all socials / TT: @jackofalltradesdc Listen to the In Between Podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Follow ‪@reblavoie‬ on all socials Listen to Crime Writer's On wherever you get your podcasts!

    2h 10m
  2. Not Our War, Jim Crow 2.0, Are we "taking" Cuba with special guest, Marcia Chatelin

    2H AGO

    Not Our War, Jim Crow 2.0, Are we "taking" Cuba with special guest, Marcia Chatelin

    This week on NewsLIGHT, Mel Barrett navigates a world where alliances are fraying and domestic battles over the ballot are reaching a fever pitch.  We lead with a massive diplomatic rift: "Not Our War." As the conflict in the Middle East intensifies, President Trump’s urgent request for European and Asian allies to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz has been met with a resounding "no". From the UK to Japan, the sentiment is clear: "You started this, you handle it".  We explore the President’s fury as he labels the hesitation a “foolish mistake” that could jeopardize the very future of the NATO alliance.  Back at home, we pull back the curtain on the SAVE America Act, the bill critics are calling "Jim Crow 2.0". This legislation would require Americans to prove their citizenship in person with a passport or birth certificate just to register to vote—a move experts warn is designed to suppress the voices of Black and Brown voters. With the bill stalled in the Senate, we break down the high-stakes GOP strategy: a "talking filibuster" intended to physically exhaust the opposition into a simple 51-vote victory. But with key Republicans like Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski still on the fence, is the plan already doomed?  The crisis then moves to the Caribbean, where Cuba sits in total darkness. Following a nationwide collapse of the power grid on March 16, 11 million people are without electricity due to a U.S. oil blockade that has left the island "down to fumes". Amidst the blackout, we analyze the President’s stunning musings about the "honor" of "taking Cuba" and his claim that he can do "anything I want with it".  Special Guest: Joining us for this critical conversation is Marcia Chatelain, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and the Presidential Penn Compact Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Chatelain provides her expert analysis on the intersection of race, faith, and the moral leadership required in this volatile moment.  Tune in for the news that matters, the context you need, and the perspective you won't get anywhere else. Only on NewsLIGHT with Mel Barrett.  Don't forget to like, subscribe, comment, and share to help the channel grow.  And subscribe to @somethingsoffpod to get your crime news on!  If you want to watch the Impact x Nightline episode that Mel is featured in about Pamela Smart's new legal fight, watch it here: https://www.hulu.com/series/98fb0a9b-...If you appreciate Mel's work, please tip:  Venmo: @melbarrettwrites  CashApp: cash.app/$newslight  Paypal: paypal.me/MelBarrett11

    1h 11m
  3. Kelsey Fitzsimmons Pre-Trial Recap

    1D AGO

    Kelsey Fitzsimmons Pre-Trial Recap

    In this solo deep-dive, Mel recaps the case of former North Andover police officer Kelsey Fitzsimmons as we head into trial next week.  For months, we’ve been questioning the narrative of the night Kelsey was shot by her own colleagues while they were serving a restraining order. Now, just days before her trial is set to begin, the case has been blown wide open with a series of legal bombshells.  What’s New This Week?  A Rare Win in Court: On March 12, a judge officially loosened Kelsey’s bail conditions. Mel discusses what it means for Kelsey to finally move out of her parents’ home and into her own residence as she prepares for the fight of her life.  The Quest for Her Son: The heart of this update is Kelsey’s emotional push for reunification. We explore the legal hurdles she’s facing in family court and how this new independence might help her regain custody of her child.  The Defense Strikes Back: Kelsey’s team isn't playing defense anymore. Mel dives into the newly released surveillance footage—allegedly showing Kelsey’s former fiancé, Justin Aylaian, smoking marijuana "hundreds of times."  Administrative Leave: Following the defense’s motion for disciplinary records, Aylaian has been placed on paid administrative leave from the North Andover Fire Department. Is the "credible witness" for the prosecution starting to crumble?  The Shooting Officer: The defense is now seeking records for Officer Patrick Noonan, the man who pulled the trigger. Mel examines why these personnel files from North Andover and Lawrence could be the "exculpatory evidence" the defense needs.  Don't forget to subscribe, like, comment, and request to join our private Facebook group! - Something's Off with Mel Barrett + Rebecca Lavoie  If you want to watch the Impact x Nightline episode that Mel is featured in about Pamela Smart's new legal fight, watch it here: https://www.hulu.com/series/98fb0a9b-...If you like us, please tip us:  venmo: @melbarrettwrites  cashapp: cash.app/$SomethingsOffTips  paypal: paypal.me/MelBarrett11You can now join the YouTube channel! When you become a member Rebecca will send you free stickers! Click the join button to select your favorite level.  Follow @realmelbarrett on all socials / TT: @jackofalltradesdc Listen to the In Between Podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Follow ‪@reblavoie‬ on all socials Listen to Crime Writer's On wherever you get your podcasts!

    2h 24m
  4. THE VERDICT IS IN - KOURI RICHINS TRIAL

    3D AGO

    THE VERDICT IS IN - KOURI RICHINS TRIAL

    On an impromptu episode of Something's Off, Mel and Rebecca react in real-time to the bombshell conclusion of the Kouri Richins trial. In this episode: A Shockingly Fast Verdict: After weeks of wild testimony, digital footprint debates, and the infamous "Walk the Dog" letter, the jury deliberated for just a few hours before coming back with their decision: Guilty on all counts. We break down exactly what this rapid-fire verdict says about the state's circumstantial case and the defense's massive gamble to rest without calling a single witness. Special Guests in the house: We couldn't process this massive news alone! We are joined by true crime royalty to help us analyze the fallout: Kevin Flynn (Crime Writers On) and Ellyn Marsh (I Think Not!) pop in to share their unfiltered thoughts on the verdict, the messy legal strategies, and what's next for Kouri. The Final Breakdown: Did the timeline of the 911 call sink her? Was it the financial motive? We discuss what ultimately resonated with the jury and the ripple effects this case will have. Join us as we navigate the messy, complicated realities of the justice system. It's never black and white, and we're here for all the heavy analysis and the hot goss. (Don't forget to subscribe, leave a comment, or grab some gear from the new merch store, and request to join our private Facebook group - Something's Off with Mel Barrett + Rebecca Lavoie)

    1h 16m
  5. CLOSING ARGUMENTS IN THE KOURI RICHINS TRIAL

    3D AGO

    CLOSING ARGUMENTS IN THE KOURI RICHINS TRIAL

    Grab your coffee and get ready to head back into the trenches! In this episode of Something's Off, Mel and Rebecca are breaking down the final, high-stakes maneuvers in two massive cases. In this episode: The Boldest Strategy in the Playbook: After two and a half weeks of wild testimony, the Kouri Richins trial hits closing arguments today. We dissect the shocking decision by the defense to rest without calling a single witness, essentially telling the jury the state’s circumstantial case is so full of holes it doesn't even need defending. Stitching the Puzzle Together: The prosecution is going hard on the financial desperation, the "Walk the Dog" letter, the damning Google searches, and the secret affair. We break down how both sides are framing their closing arguments and debate whether the lack of a physical "smoking gun" is enough to plant reasonable doubt. Karen Read Civil Case Updates: Shifting gears to Canton, Karen Read has filed explosive new papers in her civil lawsuit, bringing fresh, incriminating facts about Jen McCabe's role in the alleged coverup. When high-profile defendants with the resources to fight back take the gloves off, they often become the perfect vehicle to put egregious police and prosecutorial violations on full public display. We analyze Read's latest legal maneuvering and how shining a massive spotlight on systemic rot in these highly visible cases can force the courts to act—ultimately creating better legal precedents that help protect marginalized defendants who don't have millions of dollars to spend on their own defense. Don't forget to subscribe, like, comment, and request to join our private Facebook group! - Something's Off with Mel Barrett + Rebecca Lavoie If you want to watch the Impact x Nightline episode that Mel is featured in about Pamela Smart's new legal fight, watch it here: https://www.hulu.com/series/98fb0a9b-... If you like us, please tip us: venmo: @melbarrettwrites cashapp: cash.app/$SomethingsOffTips paypal: paypal.me/MelBarrett11  You can now join the YouTube channel! When you become a member Rebecca will send you free stickers! Click the join button to select your favorite level. Follow @realmelbarrett on all socials / TT: @jackofalltradesdc Listen to the In Between Podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Follow ‪@reblavoie‬ on all socials Listen to Crime Writer's On wherever you get your podcasts!

    2h 4m
  6. The Kouri Richins Trial - Everyone RESTS PLUS Kelsey Fitzsimmons gets a rare win!

    MAR 13

    The Kouri Richins Trial - Everyone RESTS PLUS Kelsey Fitzsimmons gets a rare win!

    Lots to discuss this morning on Something's Off. Join Mel and Rebecca as they break down the absolute shocker that happened just before both sides rested their cases in the Kouri Richins trial, AND discuss Kelsey Fitzsimmons' huge day in court. Let's break it all down!  In this episode:  The Ultimate Flex or a Massive Gamble? After 2.5 weeks and 42 state witnesses, Kouri Richins’ defense team stunned the courtroom by resting their case without calling a single witness. Mel and Rebecca analyze the strategy behind keeping Kouri off the stand and relying entirely on reasonable doubt.  The Legal Chess Match: We dive into the tense, behind-the-scenes standoff over David Norris—and how the judge’s threat to allow a damning jailhouse recording of the word "fentanyl" forced the defense to back down.  Investigative Blind Spots: Breaking down Kathryn Nester's final, fiery cross-examination of lead investigator Det. Jeff O’Driscoll. From the Valentine's Day EpiPens to the fact that police never found a single fentanyl pill in 10 separate search warrants, we discuss the holes the defense hopes are big enough for an acquittal.  Kelsey Fitzsimmons Updates: Shifting gears, we cover the massive developments in Kelsey Fitzsimmons' day in court and what it means for the trajectory of that case. Grab your coffee and let's get into the trenches!  If you want to watch the Impact x Nightline episode that Mel is featured in about Pamela Smart's new legal fight, watch it here: https://www.hulu.com/series/98fb0a9b-...If you like us, please tip us:  venmo: @melbarrettwrites  cashapp: cash.app/$SomethingsOffTips  You can now join the YouTube channel! When you become a member Rebecca will send you free stickers! Click the join button to select your favorite level.  Follow @realmelbarrett on all socials / TT: @jackofalltradesdc Listen to the In Between Podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Follow ‪@reblavoie‬ on all socials Listen to Crime Writer's On wherever you get your podcasts!

    1h 17m
  7. Kouri Richins Trial Days 11+12 - SHOULD THE TRANSCRIPTS COME IN PLUS O'DRISCOLL TAKES THE STAND

    MAR 12

    Kouri Richins Trial Days 11+12 - SHOULD THE TRANSCRIPTS COME IN PLUS O'DRISCOLL TAKES THE STAND

    AFTER A TWO DAY BREAK, Mel and Rebecca are back to breakdown the (e)motions.  In this episode, we dive into a sudden and dramatic halt in Day 11 of the Kouri Richins murder trial. On Tuesday, what was supposed to be a standard day of testimony turned into a tense, hours-long legal standoff that ended with the judge sending the jury home early and assigning the lawyers some high-stakes homework. The courtroom ground to a halt over the state's star witness: Carmen Lauber, the housekeeper who allegedly sold Kouri the fatal fentanyl. After a brutal cross-examination by the defense last week, the prosecution attempted to rehabilitate Lauber's credibility by introducing roughly 100 pages of transcripts from her prior police interviews. Their goal? To prove she wasn't lying or just telling detectives what they wanted to hear to get a plea deal. But the defense immediately threw a flag. They accused the prosecution of "cherry-picking" the evidence, leaving out hours of tape where detectives allegedly pressured and coerced Lauber. The defense drew a line in the sand: If the jury hears their 100 pages, they need to hear all 900 pages of the interviews—all seven and a half hours of it. We break down the intense legal arguments that followed, including the defense's Confrontation Clause objections, the prosecution's strategy to introduce the evidence through the lead detective, and the judge's ultimate—and pivotal—ruling. Rather than forcing the jury to sit through hours of unedited tape, the judge sent everyone home and hit the pause button. He ordered the defense to spend Tuesday afternoon scouring the remaining 800 pages to find their own excerpts to add for context under the "Rule of Completeness." With a strict 6:00 PM deadline to file their paperwork, both sides were ordered back to court Wednesday morning to stitch together a final video presentation before the jury returns. PLUS court's back in session on Wednesday and Detective Jeff O'Driscoll is supposed to take the stand! It should be spicy! If you want to watch the Impact x Nightline episode that Mel is featured in about Pamela Smart's new legal fight, watch it here: https://www.hulu.com/series/98fb0a9b-...If you like us, please tip us:venmo: @melbarrettwritescashapp: cash.app/$SomethingsOffTips You can now join the YouTube channel! When you become a member Rebecca will send you free stickers! Click the join button to select your favorite level. Follow @realmelbarrett on all socials / TT: @jackofalltradesdc Listen to the In Between Podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Follow ‪@reblavoie‬ on all socials Listen to Crime Writer's On wherever you get your podcasts!

    1h 52m
  8. DOJ drops bombshells on Trump. Trump drops bombs on Iran to distract

    MAR 12

    DOJ drops bombshells on Trump. Trump drops bombs on Iran to distract

    Join Mel Barrett and guests, Mari Forth and Sarah Carradine from the podcast, Crime Seen to discuss the international reaction to the Epstein Files and Trump and Bebe's war on Iran. If you want to watch the Impact x Nightline episode that Mel is featured in about Pamela Smart's new legal fight, watch it here: https://www.hulu.com/series/98fb0a9b-...If you like us, please tip us:  venmo: @melbarrettwrites cashapp: cash.app/$Newslight  Follow @realmelbarrett on all socials / TT: @jackofalltradesdc Listen to the In Between Podcast wherever you get your podcasts!

    2h 3m
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About

There’s the official story. And then there’s the truth. The In Between is an investigative narrative podcast that digs into cases where the facts got buried, distorted, or deliberately ignored. Hosted by journalist and screenwriter Mel Barrett, each season unpacks one story that was never fully told, blending deep reporting, legal analysis, and raw personal narrative. Mel doesn’t just rehash headlines—she goes digging. She’s spent over a decade uncovering new evidence in the Pamela Smart case, work that helped form the basis of a new habeas petition. In Season One, she revisits the trial that made Smart a national villain—and questions everything we thought we knew. Season Two, From Victim to Accused: The Veronika Rodriguez Story, pulls back the curtain on a case where a 26-year-old Air National Guard member reported a sexual assault—and ended up the one in handcuffs. What happened next is more than a miscarriage of justice. It’s a warning. This is the space between the crime and the courtroom, the headlines and the hidden truth. This is The In Between. Join the Investigator Club for AD FREE, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content of The In Between Podcast: https://patreon.com/TheInBetweenPodcastwithMelBarrett?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Follow The In Between Podcast at: IG: @TheInBetweenPodOfficial FB: @TheInBetweenPod Bluesky: @inbetweenpod TikTok: @jackofalltradesdc Web: inbetweenpod.com

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