Troubling Truths Podcast

Troubling Truths
  • 3.7 (9)
  • True Crime

Troubling Truths | True Crime From Those Who Lived It Some true crime podcasts tell you what happened. We bring you the people who lived it.Troubling Truths takes you beyond the headlines with real conversations featuring victims' families, investigators, and the people who refuse to stop searching for answers.Hosted by Pauline Hays, Sheri Freeman, and Benna Thompson, this podcast is personal. Pauline is the mother of murdered Mark Hays, whose nearly nine-year fight for justice became the subject of A Mother's Promise: The Mark Hays Story, coauthored with Sheri. Benna brings her own 14-year battle for answers surrounding the death of Crystal Lynn Freeman, a case ruled a suicide.From local cases to national headlines, we examine murders, missing persons, questionable investigations, failures in the justice system, and the families left fighting for the truth.We ask the difficult questions, challenge the official narrative when the evidence warrants it, and give a voice to those who deserve to be heard.Real cases. Real people. Troubling truths.A Proper Reckoning Media Production. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support.

  1. 2d ago

    Domestic Violence: When Leaving Doesn't End the Abuse | Ashlee Kim Speaks Out

    Domestic violence survivor Ashlee Kim shares her story of abuse, post-separation abuse, strangulation, and her fight for justice in South Carolina. In this powerful episode of Troubling Truths, we discuss domestic violence warning signs, coercive control, survivor protection, and the challenges victims face within the criminal justice system.For more than 20 years, Ashlee experienced physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. But leaving her marriage didn't mean the abuse stopped.As a South Carolina mother of three, healthcare professional, and former legal assistant with a background in criminal justice, Ashlee brings a unique perspective to the challenges survivors face when seeking protection.We also discuss the September 2025 attempted murder case involving her former husband and his father, her efforts to bring prior allegations and documentation to the attention of authorities, and her concerns about how the case was handled.Ashlee explains why she's advocating for stronger domestic violence laws in South Carolina, better recognition of nonfatal strangulation, improved risk assessments, and greater accountability for repeat violent offenders.What happens when the warning signs are there, but the people asking for help don't feel heard?This is a conversation about survival, protecting children, accountability, and the fight to prevent another tragedy.💜 CONNECT WITH ASHLEE KIMFacebook: Ashlee Kim✍️ SIGN ASHLEE'S PETITIONHelp support stronger domestic violence protections in South Carolina.Pass Comprehensive Domestic Violence Reform in South Carolina:https://www.change.org/p/pass-comprehensive-domestic-violence-reform-in-south-carolina❤️ SUPPORT TROUBLING TRUTHSHelp us continue giving victims, survivors, and their families a voice.Become a supporter:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support🎙️ CONTACT TROUBLING TRUTHSFor guest inquiries, sponsorships, or story submissions:troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.comSubscribe, follow, and share Troubling Truths on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and your favorite podcast platform.🔥 Burn it down. 💥 Flip the table. 🎙️ Say it anyway.Troubling Truths is a Proper Reckoning Media production.#DomesticViolence #SurvivorStories #TrueCrime © 2026 Proper Reckoning Media. All Rights Reserved.Troubling Truths is produced and published by Proper Reckoning Media.Questions, case tips, or story submissions? Contact us at troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com.Support Troubling Truths: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support

    Domestic Violence: When Leaving Doesn't End the Abuse | Ashlee Kim Speaks Out

  2. 4d ago

    Wayne Nance: The Missoula Mauler | Marci Bachmann’s Brother Speaks Out

    In 1984, 16-year-old Marci Bachmann disappeared from Washington State. Her remains were discovered in Montana, but for more than two decades, nobody knew her name. Investigators would eventually connect her murder to suspected serial killer Wayne Nance, known as the Missoula Mauler.In this powerful episode of Troubling Truths, we sit down with Marci's brother, Derek M. Bachmann, who spent years searching for his missing sister. Derek shares the heartbreaking story of Marci's disappearance, the family secrets surrounding her childhood, and the promise he made to his grandfather to bring her home.We also explore the disturbing crimes linked to Wayne Nance, the investigation that eventually restored Marci's identity, and the emotional toll of spending 22 years without answers.Derek is the author of Silence Has a Name: A Brother's Search for the Sister the World Forgot, a deeply personal memoir about his sister, his search, and the family left behind.This is more than a serial killer story. It's about a brother who refused to give up and a young girl who deserved to be remembered.📖 DEREK BACHMANN'S BOOKSilence Has a Name: A Brother's Search for the Sister the World ForgotAuthor: D. M. BachmannBook listing: https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/d-m-bachmann/14439761/❤️ SUPPORT TROUBLING TRUTHSHelp us continue bringing attention to victims, families, and stories that deserve to be heard.Become a supporter: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support🎙️ CONNECT WITH TROUBLING TRUTHSFor questions, sponsorships, or story submissions:troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.comSubscribe, follow, and leave us a rating wherever you listen to podcasts.🔥 Burn it down. 💥 Flip the table. 🎙️ Say it anyway.Troubling Truths is a Proper Reckoning Media production. © 2026 Proper Reckoning Media. All Rights Reserved.Troubling Truths is produced and published by Proper Reckoning Media.Questions, case tips, or story submissions? Contact us at troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com.Support Troubling Truths: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support

    Wayne Nance: The Missoula Mauler | Marci Bachmann’s Brother Speaks Out

  3. Nov 1

    Christa Pike's Botched Execution: What Went Wrong in Tennessee?

    On September 30, 2026, Tennessee attempted to execute Christa Pike, the woman convicted of the brutal 1995 murder of 19-year-old Colleen Slemmer. But what was supposed to end a case nearly three decades old turned into a night of repeated needle attempts, closed curtains, emergency calls, and an execution that left Pike alive.In Part 2 of our Christa Pike coverage, Troubling Truths Podcast examines the disturbing timeline of Tennessee's failed lethal injection, from a last-minute court ruling to witness accounts of Pike breathing and moving long after the execution began.We discuss reports of approximately 10 needle attempts, a severely bent needle, questions surrounding the medical personnel, and the emergency response that eventually sent Pike to the hospital. We also examine the earlier failed execution of Tony Carruthers, the resignation of Tennessee corrections commissioner Frank Strada, and the investigation ordered by Governor Bill Lee.Pike's reported recovery raises serious questions about what happened inside that execution chamber. Meanwhile, Colleen Slemmer's family has been left facing another painful chapter after waiting 30 years for justice.What went wrong? Who was responsible? And should Tennessee be allowed to attempt another execution?Through eyewitness reporting, attorney statements, emergency recordings, and news coverage, we examine the unanswered questions while separating documented events from allegations that remain under investigation.HAVE INFORMATION OR A STORY TO SHARE?Have information about a case, a story you believe deserves attention, or questions for our team? We'd like to hear from you. No information is too small.For confidential inquiries, story submissions, guest appearances, sponsorships, or partnerships:📧 troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.comSUPPORT TROUBLING TRUTHSIndependent reporting and true crime storytelling take time, research, and resources. If you believe these stories deserve to be told, consider becoming a supporter of Troubling Truths Podcast.❤️ Become a supporter: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/supportFollow Troubling Truths Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, or wherever you listen. Share this episode, leave us a review, and join the conversation. Your support helps us continue asking the difficult questions.🔥 Burn it down. 💥 Flip the table. 🎙️ Say it anyway.Troubling Truths Podcast is a Proper Reckoning Media production.Note: Certain details surrounding the execution, including allegations about IV access and medical procedures, remain disputed or under investigation. © 2026 Proper Reckoning Media. All Rights Reserved.Troubling Truths is produced and published by Proper Reckoning Media.Questions, case tips, or story submissions? Contact us at troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com.Support Troubling Truths: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support

    Christa Pike's Botched Execution: What Went Wrong in Tennessee?

  4. Oct 28

    Bail Reform and Public Safety: Is Politics Putting Americans at Risk? w/ Ken W. Good

    Bail Reform, Politics and Public Safety: Attorney Ken W. Good | Troubling TruthsAre politics and judicial policies putting public safety at risk? And when dangerous offenders are released back into our communities, who should be held accountable?Across America, the debate over cashless bail, electronic monitoring, and judicial accountability is raising serious questions about how our criminal justice system operates.In this episode of Troubling Truths, Sheri, Pauline, and Benna sit down with attorney Ken W. Good, a longtime bail law expert, author of Good's on Bail, and board member of the Professional Bondsmen of Texas.We discuss the politics behind bail reform, the authority judges have when determining pretrial release, and whether electronic monitoring is an effective way to supervise defendants accused of violent crimes.Who is responsible when someone violates the conditions of their release? Are political agendas influencing criminal justice policies? And are we doing enough to protect innocent people while preserving constitutional rights?From judicial discretion and repeat offenders to government accountability and the future of cash bail, this conversation takes a closer look at the policies shaping America's justice system.Are we prioritizing the right things when it comes to public safety, or is it time to rethink how our courts handle dangerous offenders?Join us for a conversation that's sure to spark debate.SUPPORT TROUBLING TRUTHSHelp us continue bringing you independent true crime investigations, victim advocacy, and stories that deserve to be heard.https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/supportHAVE INFORMATION OR A STORY TO SHARE?Have a tip, information about a case, or a story you believe deserves attention? We want to hear from you.No information is too small.For confidential inquiries, story submissions, guest appearances, or sponsorship opportunities:troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.comJOIN THE CONVERSATIONSubscribe, follow, and share Troubling Truths as we continue investigating difficult cases, asking uncomfortable questions, and giving a voice to stories that should never be forgotten.🔥 Burn it down. 💥 Flip the table. 🎙️ Say it anyway.Troubling Truths is a Proper Reckoning Media production. © 2026 Proper Reckoning Media. All Rights Reserved.Troubling Truths is produced and published by Proper Reckoning Media.Questions, case tips, or story submissions? Contact us at troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com.Support Troubling Truths: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support

    Bail Reform and Public Safety: Is Politics Putting Americans at Risk? w/ Ken W. Good

  5. Oct 28

    Alphanso Talley Chicago Police Shooting: Did Bail Reform Fail?

    Alphanso Talley Chicago Police Shooting: Did Bail Reform Fail?Was the death of a Chicago police officer preventable?On April 25, 2026, Chicago police officer John Bartholomew was fatally shot, and fellow officer Nelson Crespo suffered devastating injuries during a violent encounter at Swedish Hospital. The accused gunman, Alphanso Talley, had a criminal history and had previously been released on electronic monitoring despite prosecutors' objections.But what happened in the months leading up to that tragic day? Why was Talley released despite concerns about public safety? What warning signs emerged, and could authorities have intervened before an officer lost his life?In this episode of Troubling Truths, Sheri, Pauline, and Benna investigate the Alphanso Talley case, the controversial decisions made in Cook County courtrooms, reported electronic monitoring violations, and the growing debate surrounding Illinois' SAFE-T Act and no-cash bail policies.We examine the events at Swedish Hospital, the questions surrounding police search procedures, and the role judicial discretion played in Talley's release. We also discuss whether electronic monitoring provides adequate protection when defendants face serious violent charges.Was this a failure of judicial judgment, electronic monitoring, or a series of missed opportunities that could have prevented a tragedy?Join us as we examine the evidence, question the decisions, and discuss who should be held accountable.SUPPORT TROUBLING TRUTHSHelp us continue bringing you independent true crime investigations, victim advocacy, and the stories that deserve to be heard.https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/supportHAVE INFORMATION OR A STORY TO SHARE?Have a tip, information about a case, or a story you believe deserves attention? We want to hear from you.No information is too small.For confidential inquiries, story submissions, guest appearances, or sponsorship opportunities:troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.comJOIN THE CONVERSATIONSubscribe and join us as we continue investigating difficult cases, asking uncomfortable questions, and giving a voice to stories that should never be forgotten.🔥 Burn it down. 💥 Flip the table. 🎙️ Say it anyway.Troubling Truths is a Proper Reckoning Media production. © 2026 Proper Reckoning Media. All Rights Reserved.Troubling Truths is produced and published by Proper Reckoning Media.Questions, case tips, or story submissions? Contact us at troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com.Support Troubling Truths: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support

    Alphanso Talley Chicago Police Shooting: Did Bail Reform Fail?

  6. Oct 23

    Mica Miller part 4: Coercive Control, Mica's Law & the Fight for Justice w/ Michelle Larson

    What happens when abuse leaves no bruises, but slowly takes away everything that makes someone who they are?In Part 4 of our Mica Miller series, Troubling Truths welcomes special guest Michelle Larson, a registered nurse with more than 25 years of experience, domestic violence survivor, advocate, and author of The Seasons of Staying.Michelle joins us for a powerful conversation about coercive control, psychological abuse, manipulation, and the warning signs that are too often overlooked. Drawing from her own experiences, she explains how someone can gradually lose their independence, confidence, and sense of self, and why escaping an abusive relationship is rarely as simple as walking away.We also discuss Michelle's advocacy surrounding Mica Miller's case, the federal charges against John-Paul Miller, and the fight to pass Mica's Law, proposed South Carolina legislation that would recognize coercive control as a form of domestic violence and strengthen protections for victims.Mica's story has raised difficult questions about how our legal system responds to stalking, intimidation, and psychological abuse before physical violence ever occurs. Could stronger laws help prevent another tragedy? And how many victims are suffering in silence because the abuse they're experiencing isn't something others can see?Michelle also shares the inspiration behind her book, The Seasons of Staying, and her mission to help others recognize coercive control, find support, and reclaim their lives.If you haven't listened to Parts 1, 2, and 3 of our Mica Miller series, we encourage you to go back and hear our previous coverage, including our conversation with investigative reporter Jenn Wood.This is more than a conversation about one woman. It's about recognizing abuse, protecting survivors, and making sure Mica's story helps bring meaningful change.CONNECT WITH MICHELLE LARSONWebsite and book information: https://michellelesleyauthor.comFacebook: Michelle Lesley – Author of The Seasons of StayingSUPPORT MICA'S LAWLearn more about Mica's Law and how you can support the effort to strengthen domestic violence protections: https://passmicaslaw.netDOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORTThe Hiding Place provides support, advocacy, safety planning, and resources for survivors of domestic violence in Upstate South Carolina.Website: https://www.thehidingplacepickens.org24/7 Crisis Hotline: 888-341-9568National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233SUPPORT TROUBLING TRUTHSHelp us continue bringing attention to important stories, speaking with survivors, and giving a voice to those who deserve to be heard.https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/supportHAVE INFORMATION OR A STORY TO SHARE?Contact us confidentially at: troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com#MicaMiller #MicasLaw #CoerciveControl #DomesticViolenceAwareness #TroublingTruths © 2026 Proper Reckoning Media. All Rights Reserved.Troubling Truths is produced and published by Proper Reckoning Media.Questions, case tips, or story submissions? Contact us at troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com.Support Troubling Truths: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support

    Mica Miller part 4: Coercive Control, Mica's Law & the Fight for Justice w/ Michelle Larson

  7. Oct 21

    Spartanburg County Coroner's Office Under Fire: Death Rulings & Autopsy Photos

    What is really happening inside the Spartanburg County Coroner's Office? In this explosive episode of Troubling Truths, we sit down with two special guests who are raising serious questions about death investigations, disputed rulings, and the handling of sensitive crime scene and autopsy photographs.Former Spartanburg County coroner's detective Jonathan Nodine joins us to discuss his experiences inside the office, including his allegations that death rulings were changed and his refusal to sign off on findings he disagreed with. He shares what led to his resignation and the concerns he believes deserve public attention.We're also joined by Alex Henderson, brother of Skylar Henderson, whose story we've previously covered. Alex brings text messages and information surrounding allegations of improperly shared photographs, troubling personal decisions, and questions that remain unanswered.We also revisit the heartbreaking case of Gabriel "Gabby" Mitchell and allegations involving Tarra Carter sharing sensitive photographs with her daughter.With firsthand accounts, text messages, and serious allegations on the table, this episode raises one important question: Who holds the people responsible for investigating deaths accountable?These allegations deserve scrutiny, and the families involved deserve answers.🚨 CALLING ALL WHISTLEBLOWERS: If you have firsthand knowledge, documents, evidence, or information involving the Spartanburg County Coroner's Office or related investigations, we want to hear from you. If you've been afraid to come forward, your voice matters. No piece of information is too small.📩 Contact Troubling Truths: troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com🎙️ Support Troubling Truths and help us continue bringing these stories to light:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support © 2026 Proper Reckoning Media. All Rights Reserved.Troubling Truths is produced and published by Proper Reckoning Media.Questions, case tips, or story submissions? Contact us at troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com.Support Troubling Truths: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support

    Spartanburg County Coroner's Office Under Fire: Death Rulings & Autopsy Photos

  8. Oct 16

    Pendleton Quadruple Murders: Amy Vilardi’s Daughter Savannah Breaks Her Silence

    More than a decade after the Pendleton quadruple murders shocked South Carolina, the case is once again making headlines. Major evidence has been thrown out, Ross Vilardi's murder trial has been postponed, and Amy Vilardi is appealing her conviction. But behind the courtroom battles is a deeply personal story that deserves to be heard.In this powerful episode of Troubling Truths, we sit down with Savannah, the daughter of convicted murderer Amy Vilardi, as she shares her experiences with remarkable grace, courage, and dignity.Savannah opens up about her childhood, her complicated relationship with her mother, and her allegations of years of sexual abuse by Ross Vilardi. Her story offers a perspective on the Pendleton quadruple murders that goes far beyond the investigation and courtroom proceedings.We also examine the latest developments, including the judge's decision to suppress crucial evidence, Ross Vilardi's fight for bond, and what the pending appeals could mean for both cases.But this episode is about more than a murder investigation. It's about survival, finding your voice, and the strength it takes to share experiences that have remained painful for years. Savannah's willingness to speak openly is a reminder of why these stories matter and why survivors deserve to be heard. FOLLOW SAVANNAH Connect with Savannah and show her your support.Instagram: @Savvy._mtTikTok: @Savvy._mt STAY UPDATED ON THE PENDLETON QUADRUPLE MURDERS The legal battles surrounding Amy and Ross Vilardi are far from over. We will continue covering the latest hearings, appeals, bond decisions, and major developments.Follow our Troubling Truths Facebook page, where we'll post updates and breaking developments as new information becomes available. SUPPORT TROUBLING TRUTHS Your support helps us continue bringing you important stories, exclusive interviews, and voices that deserve to be heard.Become a supporter: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support  SPONSORSHIP & CONTACTInterested in sponsoring Troubling Truths or partnering with our podcast? We'd love to hear from you.Have information about the Pendleton quadruple murders or another case we should investigate? Reach out to our team.Email: troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.comSubscribe to Troubling Truths and join us as we uncover the stories behind the headlines.🔥 Burn it down. 💥 Flip the table. 🎙️ Say it anyway.Troubling Truths is a Proper Reckoning Media production. © 2026 Proper Reckoning Media. All Rights Reserved.Troubling Truths is produced and published by Proper Reckoning Media.Questions, case tips, or story submissions? Contact us at troublingtruthspodcast@gmail.com.Support Troubling Truths: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support

    Pendleton Quadruple Murders: Amy Vilardi’s Daughter Savannah Breaks Her Silence
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3.7
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Troubling Truths | True Crime From Those Who Lived It Some true crime podcasts tell you what happened. We bring you the people who lived it.Troubling Truths takes you beyond the headlines with real conversations featuring victims' families, investigators, and the people who refuse to stop searching for answers.Hosted by Pauline Hays, Sheri Freeman, and Benna Thompson, this podcast is personal. Pauline is the mother of murdered Mark Hays, whose nearly nine-year fight for justice became the subject of A Mother's Promise: The Mark Hays Story, coauthored with Sheri. Benna brings her own 14-year battle for answers surrounding the death of Crystal Lynn Freeman, a case ruled a suicide.From local cases to national headlines, we examine murders, missing persons, questionable investigations, failures in the justice system, and the families left fighting for the truth.We ask the difficult questions, challenge the official narrative when the evidence warrants it, and give a voice to those who deserve to be heard.Real cases. Real people. Troubling truths.A Proper Reckoning Media Production. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/troubling-truths-podcast--7257062/support.

Information

  • Creator
    Troubling Truths
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 026 Proper Reckoning Media
  • Show Website
    Troubling Truths Podcast

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