The Missing Journal: Cold cases, evidence & unanswered questions

Alison Best

The Missing Journal is a gripping true crime podcast hosted by Alison Best, dedicated to unraveling the haunting mysteries of cold cases and unsolved disappearances. Each episode invites listeners into a world where justice hangs in the balance, offering a deeply emotional journey through evidence that has long gathered dust. Alison’s compelling narration transforms archived files into vivid narratives, allowing you to feel the weight of unanswered questions alongside the families who still wait for closure. This show provides more than just facts; it delivers an immersive experience that honors the victims while exploring the intricate details of failed investigations. Dive deep into forensic analysis, witness testimonies, and the persistent efforts of detectives chasing leads across decades. We explore topics such as missing persons cases, serial killer investigations, and the psychological impact on communities left behind by violent crimes. Listeners will find comprehensive breakdowns of DNA evidence, alibi discrepancies, and the legal hurdles that keep cases open. From small-town mysteries to high-profile national headlines, every story is examined with rigorous attention to detail and respect for those affected. The podcast covers the full spectrum of criminal justice, including wrongful convictions, police procedural errors, and the role of citizen journalists in reopening old files. Ideal for true crime enthusiasts, mystery lovers, and anyone fascinated by the complexities of the human mind and the justice system, this series offers a balanced perspective on law enforcement challenges. Alison Best brings a compassionate yet analytical voice to each narrative, ensuring stories are told with integrity and depth. Released weekly, the podcast maintains a steady cadence of suspenseful storytelling paired with factual reporting. Join a community of curious minds eager to understand how these cases remain unresolved and what it takes to finally bring them to light. Subscribe now to stay updated on new episodes and support the ongoing pursuit of truth and accountability. Topics: true crime podcast, cold case mysteries, unsolved disappearances, missing persons cases, forensic investigation, justice system flaws, serial killer cases, police procedural errors, alibi discrepancies, dna evidence analysis, wrongful conviction stories, humanity media network, alison best host, criminal justice documentary, witness testimony breakdowns, small town mysteries, national headline crimes, citizen journalist investigations #TrueCrime #ColdCases #UnsolvedMysteries #MissingPersons #ForensicScience #JusticeSystem #AlisonBest #PodcastHost #InvestigativeJournalism #CrimeDocumentary #EvidenceAnalysis #HumanityMedia General information, not professional advice.

  1. 18h ago

    The Last Night of Marilyn Monroe: Pills, Secrets, and Silence | The Missing Journal

    In this episode of The Missing Journal, host Alison Best dissects the final hours and enduring mysteries surrounding the death of Marilyn Monroe. This true crime deep dive examines the official coroner’s ruling of probable suicide due to acute barbiturate poisoning, contrasting it with decades of conspiracy theories involving JFK, RFK, and organized crime. For listeners interested in Hollywood history, cold case investigations, and the intersection of fame and mental health, this narrative provides a sobering look at the systemic neglect and pharmaceutical dependence that plagued Monroe in her last years. The episode meticulously reconstructs the timeline from August 4 to August 5, 1962, detailing Monroe’s isolation at her Brentwood home, her firing from 20th Century Fox, and the presence of key figures like housekeeper Eunice Murray and psychiatrist Dr. Ralph Greenson. We explore the physical evidence found at the scene, including empty pill bottles and the lack of forced entry, which supported the initial suicide determination by Coroner Thomas Noguchi and Detective Bill Wilkerson. However, the narrative also addresses the persistent doubts raised by factual discrepancies noted in the 1982 District Attorney review, offering a balanced perspective on why alternative murder theories gained traction despite lacking concrete proof. Beyond the forensic details, this story highlights the human tragedy behind the icon. It discusses Monroe’s battles with depression, insomnia, and addiction, as well as the exploitative nature of the Hollywood studio system that discarded her when she was most vulnerable. By separating sensationalist fiction from documented fact, we honor Monroe not as a plot point in political conspiracies, but as a complex individual who suffered in silence. This episode serves as both a historical record and a meditation on how media narratives can obscure the dignity of those who have passed. Join us as we peel back the layers of one of history's most famous unsolved questions. If you appreciate thoughtful, evidence-based true crime storytelling, please subscribe and support the show through the link below. Your support helps us continue to uncover the truth behind the headlines. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Marilyn_Monroe More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Marilyn_Monroe Topics: marilyn monroe death, true crime podcast, marilyn monroe conspiracy theories, jfk and marilyn monroe, cold case investigation, hollywood history, barbiturate overdose, brentwood house 12305, dr ralph greenson, eunice murray, coroner report marilyn monroe, mental health in hollywood, unsolved mysteries #marilynmonroe #truecrime #coldcase #hollywoodhistory #conspiracytheories #podcastshow #mystery #justice #historicalfacts #unsolved Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-10-21.txt

  2. 1d ago

    The Night They Vanished: Alcatraz Escape Mystery | The Missing Journal

    On June 11, 1962, three men—Frank Morris and brothers John and Clarence Anglin—executed the most famous escape in history from Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, leaving behind only crude dummy heads and a raft made of raincoats. This episode of The Missing Journal dissects the meticulous planning, the chilling execution, and the enduring mystery of their disappearance into the freezing waters of San Francisco Bay. If you are fascinated by true crime cold cases, historical mysteries, or the psychology of high-security prison breaks, this narrative provides a deep dive into the evidence that has baffled investigators for over six decades. The story begins with the slow, methodical chipping away of concrete walls using spoons and screwdrivers, a process hidden by the routine boredom of prison life. We explore how Morris and the Anglins crafted hyper-realistic dummies using latex, barber shop hair, and clothing to fool nightly head counts, creating the perfect window of opportunity to slip through utility corridors. This segment highlights the ingenuity and desperation of the escapees, contrasting their calculated risk against the rigid, mechanical nature of Alcatraz’s security protocols. The tension builds as we follow their journey from the cell block to the roof, where they faced the terrifying reality of the fifty-degree Fahrenheit water below. Once on the makeshift raft constructed from sewn-together raincoats and inflated balloons, the men entered the bay, only to be met by hypothermia, choppy waves, and sinking buoyancy. When the alarm was raised on June 12, an massive search involving the FBI, Coast Guard, and hundreds of personnel found debris but no bodies. This absence of remains became the central haunting element of the case: did they drown instantly, reach the shore and vanish, or drift into the Pacific? We examine the FBI’s 1979 conclusion that they likely drowned, contrasted with the 2013 reopening of the investigation by U.S. Marshals using modern forensic technology to re-examine artifacts like fingerprints and fabric samples. Ultimately, this episode reflects on the human dignity behind the crime. Whether Frank Morris and the Anglins were victims of hubris or triumphs of resourcefulness, their story remains a testament to the unpredictable variables in even the most controlled environments. Join host Alison Best as she strips away conspiracy theories and sensationalism to focus on the paper trail, the physical evidence, and the unanswered questions that continue to hang in the fog over San Francisco Bay. Listen now to hear the full account of the night they vanished, and support The Missing Journal by visiting our website link to help us continue uncovering these untold stories. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Escape_from_Alcatraz More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Escape_from_Alcatraz Topics: alcatraz escape mystery, frank morris anglin brothers, true crime cold cases, alcatraz prison break details, san francisco bay missing persons, fbi alcatraz investigation history, unsolved mysteries documentary, prison escape stories, historical true crime analysis, alcatraz raft construction, missing bodies mystery, justice delayed complications #alcatraz #truecrime #coldcase #mystery #frankmorris #anglinbrothers #unsolved #history #investigation #podcast #documentary #sanfrancisco Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-10-20.txt

  3. 2d ago

    The Cop Who Hid in Plain Sight: How DNA Caught the Golden State Killer | The Missing Journal

    In this episode of The Missing Journal, host Alison Best dissects the chilling case of Joseph James DeAngelo Jr., widely known as the Golden State Killer. This true crime deep dive explores how a former police officer used his badge and intimate knowledge of law enforcement procedures to evade capture for over two decades while committing a spree of burglaries, rapes, and murders across California. Listeners will learn about the terrifying reality that the man hunting criminals was actually the monster hiding in plain sight within the Auburn Police Department and Exeter burglary unit. The narrative traces the evolution of the investigation from the fragmented crimes of the East Area Rapist and Original Night Stalker to the breakthrough use of forensic genetic genealogy. We examine how DNA testing linked EARONS cases together, establishing California’s robust DNA database, and how investigators finally identified DeAngelo by matching crime scene DNA to relatives in public genealogy databases. This technological leap allowed authorities to build a family tree backward from cousins to identify the 72-year-old suspect in 2018, marking a historic shift in cold case resolution. Beyond the science, this episode analyzes the legal complexities and psychological profile behind the killer. Despite being caught, statute of limitations issues prevented rape charges for pre-2017 incidents, leading to a plea bargain focused on murder and kidnapping counts. We also explore DeAngelo’s traumatic childhood, including exposure to violence in West Germany and early signs of psychopathy like animal torture, which formed the pathology of a man who wore a uniform as cover. Join Alison Best as we uncover the evidence, the timeline, and the justice served in one of the most significant criminal cases in history. Tune in now for a tense-cinematic exploration of evidence and unanswered questions. Support The Missing Journal and help us bring more truth to light by visiting our website link below. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_James_DeAngelo More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_James_DeAngelo Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-10-19.txt

  4. 3d ago

    The Wrong Turn That Changed The World: Sarajevo 1914 | The Missing Journal

    This episode of The Missing Journal explores the pivotal historical moment known as the Sarajevo Assassination of 1914, examining how a single wrong turn by Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s driver led to the deaths of the heir presumptive and his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg. Hosted by Alison Best, this true crime and history deep-dive is for listeners interested in the origins of World War I, the complexities of Balkan politics, and the human stories behind major geopolitical shifts. We move beyond the textbook dates to focus on the mundane, tense atmosphere of that June afternoon, analyzing the chain of events that transformed a routine motorcade into the catalyst for global catastrophe. We delve into the mechanics of the assassination, detailing the failed first attempt by Nedeljko Čabrinović and the subsequent encounter with Gavrilo Princip. This segment breaks down the role of the Black Hand secret society, the involvement of young conspirators under twenty, and the political objectives of freeing Bosnia and Herzegovina from Austro-Hungarian rule. By examining the trial records and the swift justice meted out by authorities, we uncover the calculated nature of the plot versus the chaotic aftermath. The narrative highlights the intimate violence of the event, including Franz Ferdinand’s final words to his dying wife, offering a poignant look at the individuals erased by history. The discussion expands to the July Crisis, tracing the diplomatic failures and alliance systems that turned a localized Balkan conflict into World War I. We explore the historical tensions dating back to the Treaty of Berlin, the Pig War, and the rise of Serbian nationalism. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the evidence, the key players like Danilo Ilić and Dragutin Dimitrijević, and the long-term consequences of the shots fired in Sarajevo. It serves as an essential resource for students of history, true crime enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to understand the intricate web of causes that reshaped the modern world. Listen now to experience the full narration of this tense, cinematic journey through one of history’s most consequential days. Support The Missing Journal and help us continue to uncover cold cases and unanswered questions by visiting our website link below. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assassination_of_Archduke_Franz_Ferdinand More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assassination_of_Archduke_Franz_Ferdinand Topics: sarajevo assassination 1914, archduke franz ferdinand, gavrilo princip, origins of world war i, black hand serbia, july crisis, austro-hungarian empire, bosnia herzegovina history, true crime history, world war one causes, nedeljko čabrinović, danilo ilić, sophie duchess of hohenberg, balkan history #sarajevo1914 #worldwari #truecrimehistory #archdukefranzferdinand #gavriloprincip #blackhand #balkans #historicalmysteries #coldcases #audiobookhistory #missingshow #alisonbest Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-10-18.txt

  5. 4d ago

    The Somerton Man: The Code, The Poison, And The Mystery That Never Closed | The Missing Journal

    The Somerton Man mystery remains one of the most enduring cold cases in true crime history, and this episode dissects the chilling details surrounding the unidentified man found dead on an Australian beach in 1948. Host Alison Best guides listeners through the initial discovery at Somerton Park, Adelaide, where police found a well-dressed man with no identification, only a half-smoked cigarette and a cryptic note reading 'Tamám shud'—Persian for 'It is over.' This narrative explores the eerie circumstances of his death, the lack of external trauma, and the immediate speculation that surrounded him as a potential spy or victim of undetectable poison during the early Cold War era. We delve deep into the physical evidence that has baffled investigators for decades, including the mysterious book, the Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám, which contained a torn-out page and indented text suggesting a hidden code. The episode examines witness accounts from November 30, 1948, describing a man lying motionless on the beach before his body was discovered, and analyzes the autopsy findings by pathologist John Burton Cleland, who noted the subject’s dancer-like foot structure and high calf muscles. These clues have fueled theories ranging from espionage to accidental overdose, leaving the case unsolved for generations. In recent years, genetic genealogy has offered a new perspective on the identity of the Somerton Man. We discuss the controversial claim by Professor Derek Abbott and genealogist Colleen M. Fitzpatrick, who identified the deceased as Carl 'Charles' Webb, an electrical engineer from Melbourne. However, we also highlight the skepticism from South Australia Police and Forensic Science South Australia, emphasizing that while DNA suggests a name, the cipher and the woman mentioned in the notes remain unknown. This story is not just about solving a crime, but about respecting the silence of those whose stories were left unfinished. Join us as we explore the intersection of forensic science, historical mystery, and human curiosity. If you are fascinated by unsolved mysteries, cold case investigations, or the ethics of genetic sleuthing, this episode offers a comprehensive look at a puzzle that refuses to be solved. Listen now to uncover the layers of this haunting case, and support the show by visiting our website link below to help keep these forgotten stories alive. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somerton_Man More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somerton_Man Topics: somerton man mystery, unsolved true crime cases, adelaide cold case 1948, tamam shud poem, rubaiyat of omar khayyam code, carl webb somerton man, genetic genealogy true crime, australian unsolved murders, cold war espionage theories, forensic investigation techniques, mystery podcast episodes, historical crime analysis #somertonman #truecrime #coldcase #unsolvedmystery #australianhistory #forensicscience #cryptogram #podcastshow #investigativejournalism #mysterylover #genealogy #adelaidesouthaustralia Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-10-17.txt

  6. Oct 11

    The Myth of Murder: Uncovering the Truth Behind Bill Wyman | The Missing Journal

    In this episode of The Missing Journal, host Alison Best dismantles the viral conspiracy theory claiming that Bill Wyman, the legendary Rolling Stones bassist, was murdered. This deep-dive investigation into a cold case myth reveals that no such crime exists in police records or credible news archives. Instead, the narrative explores the resilience and complex life of William George Perks, tracing his journey from surviving the Blitz in South London to becoming one of rock music’s most iconic figures. This episode is essential for true crime enthusiasts, music historians, and anyone interested in media literacy, offering a factual correction to misinformation while celebrating Wyman’s actual legacy. We begin by examining the origins of the false narrative, contrasting the sensationalism of internet rumors with the documented reality of Wyman’s life. From his early years working as a bookmaker to his time in the Royal Air Force in Germany, where he discovered rock and roll, the story highlights how trauma and hard work shaped his character. We delve into his musical evolution, including his creation of an electric fretless bass guitar and his pivotal audition for the Rolling Stones in 1962. The episode also touches on his close relationship with band members like Brian Jones and Mick Taylor, providing context for the human bonds behind the public spectacle, rather than focusing on fabricated tragedy. Further exploring the themes of truth versus fiction, we analyze why myths persist in the digital age and how they can rob subjects of their dignity. By referencing Wyman’s autobiographies, 'Stone Alone' and 'Rolling with the Stones,' we uncover intimate details about band dynamics, such as the voting process for releasing '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction.' The discussion extends to his post-Stones career with Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings and his continued work as an author and archaeologist. The core takeaway is a call for critical thinking: when faced with shocking claims, especially those involving living legends, it is crucial to verify sources and seek clarity amidst the noise. This episode serves as a reminder that the truth, often more nuanced and human, is always more compelling than the lie. Join us as we separate fact from fiction in this compelling episode of The Missing Journal. If you value accurate storytelling and want to support independent journalism dedicated to uncovering the truth behind the headlines, please consider supporting the show via the link provided. Your support helps us continue to investigate cold cases and debunk myths with rigor and respect. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Wyman · https://www.billwyman.com/ More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Wyman Topics: bill wyman murder myth, rolling stones bassist truth, bill wyman biography, true crime misinformation, rock legend conspiracy theories, william george perks history, rolling stones facts vs fiction, media literacy true crime, bill wyman rhythm kings, debunking celebrity rumors, stone alone autobiography, music history investigation #billwyman #rollingstones #truecrime #misinformation #rockhistory #factcheck #podcast #investigativejournalism #mythbusting #musiclegend #storytelling #truthseeker Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-10-11.txt

  7. Oct 10

    Hinterkaifeck: The Stranger Who Lived With Six Corpses | The Missing Journal

    The Hinterkaifeck murders remain one of the most chilling and unsolved mysteries in true crime history. In this episode of The Missing Journal, host Alison Best dissects the terrifying timeline of March 1922, where a family of six on an isolated Bavarian farmstead was brutally killed by an unknown intruder who then lived with their corpses for three days. This deep dive explores the forensic evidence, the psychological horror of the 'stranger in the house,' and the dark secrets that may have motivated the killer. If you are fascinated by cold cases, historical true crime, and eerie unsolved mysteries, this narrative provides a comprehensive look at why this case continues to haunt investigators nearly a century later. The story begins long before the violence, detailing the creeping dread that plagued the Gruber family. We examine the strange occurrences leading up to the massacre: footprints in the snow that led to the farm but never left, unexplained noises from the attic, and a newspaper found on the property with no clear origin. These details paint a picture of a family under siege by paranoia and isolation. The episode also uncovers the disturbing family history, including past convictions for incest and abuse, which added layers of shame and secrecy to their already secluded life. Understanding this context is crucial for analyzing the vulnerability of the victims and the potential motives behind the attack. Host Alison Best walks listeners through the night of March 31, 1922, when an unknown man arrived asking for work and was turned away, only to return hours later with devastating results. Using a mattock, the assailant murdered Andreas, Cäzilia, Viktoria, her two children, and the maid Maria Baumgartner. What makes this case uniquely horrifying is not just the brutality, but the killer's behavior afterward. He did not flee; he stayed, feeding livestock, eating food, and sleeping in the same rooms as the cooling bodies. This episode analyzes the police investigation, the lack of conclusive forensic evidence in 1922, and the various suspects, including Josef Obermeier, who were ultimately cleared. It is a meticulous reconstruction of a crime scene that defies logical explanation. Join us as we honor the victims of Hinterkaifeck by refusing to let their story fade into obscurity. Through careful analysis of public records and historical accounts, we aim to bring clarity to a case defined by silence and blood. Whether you are a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, this episode offers a respectful yet gripping exploration of one of Germany’s darkest days. Support The Missing Journal and help us keep these stories alive by visiting our website link below. Stay curious, stay kind, and listen closely to the echoes of the past. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinterkaifeck_murders More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinterkaifeck_murders Topics: hinterkaifeck murders, unsolved true crime, bavaria mystery, cold case investigation, historical crimes germany, alison best podcast, the missing journal, serial killer stories, forensic analysis, true crime documentary, gruber family, european cold cases #hinterkaifeck #truecrime #unsolvedmystery #coldcase #podcastshow #criminaljustice #historicalmystery #germanhistory #horrorstories #investigativejournalism Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-10-10.txt

About

The Missing Journal is a gripping true crime podcast hosted by Alison Best, dedicated to unraveling the haunting mysteries of cold cases and unsolved disappearances. Each episode invites listeners into a world where justice hangs in the balance, offering a deeply emotional journey through evidence that has long gathered dust. Alison’s compelling narration transforms archived files into vivid narratives, allowing you to feel the weight of unanswered questions alongside the families who still wait for closure. This show provides more than just facts; it delivers an immersive experience that honors the victims while exploring the intricate details of failed investigations. Dive deep into forensic analysis, witness testimonies, and the persistent efforts of detectives chasing leads across decades. We explore topics such as missing persons cases, serial killer investigations, and the psychological impact on communities left behind by violent crimes. Listeners will find comprehensive breakdowns of DNA evidence, alibi discrepancies, and the legal hurdles that keep cases open. From small-town mysteries to high-profile national headlines, every story is examined with rigorous attention to detail and respect for those affected. The podcast covers the full spectrum of criminal justice, including wrongful convictions, police procedural errors, and the role of citizen journalists in reopening old files. Ideal for true crime enthusiasts, mystery lovers, and anyone fascinated by the complexities of the human mind and the justice system, this series offers a balanced perspective on law enforcement challenges. Alison Best brings a compassionate yet analytical voice to each narrative, ensuring stories are told with integrity and depth. Released weekly, the podcast maintains a steady cadence of suspenseful storytelling paired with factual reporting. Join a community of curious minds eager to understand how these cases remain unresolved and what it takes to finally bring them to light. Subscribe now to stay updated on new episodes and support the ongoing pursuit of truth and accountability. Topics: true crime podcast, cold case mysteries, unsolved disappearances, missing persons cases, forensic investigation, justice system flaws, serial killer cases, police procedural errors, alibi discrepancies, dna evidence analysis, wrongful conviction stories, humanity media network, alison best host, criminal justice documentary, witness testimony breakdowns, small town mysteries, national headline crimes, citizen journalist investigations #TrueCrime #ColdCases #UnsolvedMysteries #MissingPersons #ForensicScience #JusticeSystem #AlisonBest #PodcastHost #InvestigativeJournalism #CrimeDocumentary #EvidenceAnalysis #HumanityMedia General information, not professional advice.