Criminology Chats

The Chicago School

This podcast delves into case studies, explores innovative research, and features interviews with specialists to illuminate the dynamic field of crime and justice. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply fascinated by crime narratives, there is much to discover. So, put on your headphones, relax, and join us as we navigate the complex realm of criminology. Email us with questions, comments or ideas for new episodes at criminologychatspodcast@gmail.com

  1. 5d ago

    Serial Killers in Tennessee

    In this gripping episode of Criminology Chats, we sit down with high school educator Alex Campbell to discuss the incredible real-world impact of his classroom projects. We dive deep into the origins of the viral Murder 101 podcast and how a group of high school students in rural Tennessee sparked a nationwide conversation about cold cases and serial killers. The primary focus of their investigation—and the subject of this episode—is the haunting cold case of the Redhead Murders, a series of unsolved crimes involving young women with red hair found along Tennessee highways in the 1980s. You will hear how these students, whom Campbell calls his "six sisters" advocates, applied forensic science and victimology to create profiles that even the FBI admired, eventually dubbing their primary suspect the "Bible Belt Strangler." The students' work on the Redhead Murders became the basis for the chart-topping Murder 101 podcast, and their research into the 1980s Tennessee serial killer epidemic has been featured in a major documentary streaming on platforms like Netflix. We also discuss their profound book, Driven by Rage, Fueled by Diesel: The Forgotten Victims of the Tennessee Highway Hunters, which investigates the "Tennessee Highway Hunters" and serial killers like the prolific Samuel Little. Campbell details the fascinating process of his students digging through FOIA requests and old police files, leading them to re-examine potential cases, such as the wrongful death ruling of Sedley Alley’s first wife, which is now being revisited thanks to their investigative efforts. This project is a powerful testament to what students can achieve when they are trusted with authentic, meaningful work. Whether they are uncovering the history of the Tennessee Highway Hunters or helping law enforcement identify victims decades later, these students have proven that age is no barrier to seeking justice. Join your host JR Rainbolt and co-host Grace Farrell as we explore this coming-of-age true crime story that has captivated audiences from the Sundance Film Festival to the top of the podcast charts. Listen now to discover the full scope of the Murder 101 project and how these students are finally giving names and voices back to the forgotten victims of the Redhead Murders. Links and Resources PODCAST MURDER 101: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/murder-101/id1724019923 ARTICLE ABOUT THE PROJECT: https://www.the74million.org/article/tennessee-high-schoolers-solved-a-nearly-40-year-old-serial-murder-mystery/ The Chicago School: thechicagoschool.edu Criminology Chats: criminologychats.podbean.com/ Email: criminologychatspodcast@gmail.com Executive Produced by: AMPeters www.dinomonster.com Post-Production Services by: Audio Photo Synthesis www.audiophotosynthesis.com

  2. Aug 27

    Murder in Las Vegas

    In this episode of Criminology Chats, hosts JR Rainbolt and Miranda LaCour delve into a case that shook a community and gained national attention: the tragic and senseless death of 64-year-old Andreas "Andy" Probst. A retired former police chief, husband, and father, Andy was doing something he loved—riding his bicycle on a quiet August morning in Las Vegas—when his life was stolen in a targeted act of violence. What initially appeared to be a hit-and-run accident was revealed through chilling social media footage to be a deliberate, premeditated homicide committed by two teenagers who were treating the roads like a game. We examine the disturbing evidence that investigators uncovered, including cell phone footage recorded by the suspects themselves, which captured their dangerous behavior and lack of remorse. The investigation highlights the devastating impact of this crime on Andy’s family, particularly his wife, Crystal, and daughter, Taylor, who have become powerful advocates for his legacy, ensuring Andy is remembered for how he lived—as a man of service and integrity—rather than the way he died. Join us as we explore the complexities of this case, from the investigation and the court proceedings that followed to the difficult questions it raises about accountability, the influence of social media, and the irreversible consequences of impulsive, violent decisions. We honor Andy’s memory by discussing the man behind the headlines and the profound loss felt by those who loved him. Links and Resources The Chicago School: thechicagoschool.edu Criminology Chats: criminologychats.podbean.com/ Email: criminologychatspodcast@gmail.com Executive Produced by: AMPeters www.dinomonster.com Post-Production Services by: Audio Photo Synthesis www.audiophotosynthesis.com

  3. Aug 13

    The Murder of Sierra Mininger

    Today’s Criminology Chats episode talks about the death of Sierra Mininger. It’s December 8th, 2024. It’s just after 6:30 in the morning in Greeley, Colorado. A father calls 911 and says words no parent should ever have to say. His daughter has been shot. When officers get to the house, they find 24-year-old Sierra barely alive near the front door. Single gunshot wound to the head. And inside the home? Only two other people. Her father. And her ex-boyfriend, who immediately tells police: this was suicide. Listen as JR and Grace delve into the case of Sierra Mininger.

  4. Apr 30

    Family Devastated By Ex-boyfriend

    Today’s Criminology Chats case is a horrific one—an ex-boyfriend kills his ex-girlfriend’s family and a friend living on the property. What drives someone to commit something like this? What warning signs were missed? And how did a protective order—meant to keep someone safe—fail so completely? Listen as JR and Grace delve into the case of Joseph Casterena.

  5. Apr 16

    Inside Juvenile Justice

    In this engaging episode of Criminology Chats, JR and Miranda converse with retired Youth Corrections Officer, Shane Foster, and his daughter Cory. Cory will provide her perspective of being the daughter of a youth correctional officer.  You don’t want to miss this episode.

  6. Apr 2

    Murdered Cheerleader- Case of Heather Rose Rich

    In this engaging episode of Criminology Chats, JR, Miranda, and Grace converse with retired Texas Ranger and Sheriff Lane Akin. He dedicated 50 years to law enforcement in Texas. Lane will share insights about his experiences as a Texas Ranger and Sheriff. He will delve into the murder of Heather Rich, a high school cheerleader who was tragically killed by three boys one night in October 1996. Lane was among the numerous law enforcement officials who investigated the case, providing him with a distinctive viewpoint for our audience.

  7. Mar 19

    Detective Michele Wood Chicago P.D.

    In this compelling episode of Criminology Chats, JR, Miranda and Grace chat Sergeant Michele Wood. She has spent 25 years with the Chicago Police Department. One of a select few women to serve as a homicide detective on the city’s violent West Side. Her record is unmatched: thousands of cases, hundreds of arrests, and over seventy-five department awards. Certified as an FBI crisis/hostage negotiator, Wood has led investigations into homicides, police- involved shootings, sex crimes, and domestic violence—bringing justice to victims and families. Her drive comes from a personal vow she made after surviving a violent attack at age 11, an experience that fuels both her toughness and her compassion. Wood is a familiar face in true crime television, appearing in Dick Wolf’s Dead Again, Oxygen, Investigation Discovery, ABC’s 20/20, and On Patrol Live. She’s currently developing an investigative documentary series based on her caseloads and a True Crime advocate- community engagement platform. Beyond the badge, she got her master’s in public safety management - all while raising her daughter.

  8. Mar 6

    Serial Killers in the cinema!

    Today, we will have a conversation with Dr. Jim Iaccino. He earned his Master's and Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology from DePaul University. In 2007, he became a part of The Chicago School and is now serving as an Associate Professor in the Online Forensic Psychology Department. Dr. Iaccino has spent decades researching the portrayal of serial killers in cinema. Recently, he initiated the Cinematic Serial Killers Research Project, engaging Forensic students in analyzing films that depict real-life serial murderers. Tune in to hear his insights!

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

This podcast delves into case studies, explores innovative research, and features interviews with specialists to illuminate the dynamic field of crime and justice. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply fascinated by crime narratives, there is much to discover. So, put on your headphones, relax, and join us as we navigate the complex realm of criminology. Email us with questions, comments or ideas for new episodes at criminologychatspodcast@gmail.com

Information

  • Creator
    The Chicago School
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Criminology Chats

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