The Missing Journal: Cold cases, evidence & unanswered questions

Alison Best
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  • True Crime
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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.

Episodes

  1. 23h ago

    The Boston Strangler: One Killer or Many? | The Missing Journal

    In this episode of The Missing Journal, host Alison Best dissects the enduring mystery of the Boston Strangler murders, exploring whether Albert DeSalvo was a lone killer or just one of several perpetrators. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Boston, this true crime deep dive examines the terror that gripped thirteen single women between 1962 and 1964. We analyze the fragmented police response, the jurisdictional nightmares that hampered early investigations, and the controversial role of parapsychologist Peter Hurkos in the search for closure. This narrative is essential for listeners interested in cold cases, historical justice failures, and the evolution of forensic science. The story highlights how investigative reporters Jean Cole and Loretta McLaughlin coined the term 'Boston Strangler' before Albert DeSalvo even confessed. While DeSalvo provided shocking details that seemed to solve the case, he was never tried for the stranglings due to lack of physical evidence. He was convicted on other charges as 'The Green Man' and murdered in prison in 1973. For decades, his confession stood as fact. However, modern DNA testing conducted in 2013 on the remains of the final victim, Mary Sullivan, revealed biological material that did not match DeSalvo. This groundbreaking revelation proved that DeSalvo was responsible for only one of the thirteen murders, leaving twelve unsolved by an unidentified individual. We delve into the specific details of the crimes, including the chilling 'Happy New Year' card left with victim Mary Sullivan, and the use of silk stockings as ligatures, which led some to refer to these as the 'Silk Stocking Murders.' The episode discusses the psychological impact on the community, from residents installing new locks to moving away entirely, and the systemic failures that allowed the killer(s) to operate with impunity. By re-examining the inconsistencies in DeSalvo’s confessions and the missed opportunities in mid-twentieth-century forensics, we offer a nuanced look at how justice was complicated rather than simply denied. This is a story about the victims whose lives were cut short and the persistent questions that remain unanswered despite advances in technology. Join Alison Best as she guides you through this tense-cinematic exploration of one of America's most famous unsolved mysteries. Whether you are a true crime enthusiast, a history buff, or someone interested in the intersection of media, law enforcement, and justice, this episode provides critical context often missing from popular accounts. Support The Missing Journal by visiting our website link below to help us continue uncovering the truth behind cold cases and unanswered questions. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston_Strangler More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston_Strangler Topics: boston strangler, albert desalvo, mary sullivan murder, true crime podcast, cold case investigation, forensic dna analysis, serial killer mystery, 1960s boston history, unsolved murders, green man measuring man, peter hurkos parapsychology, jean cole loretta mclaughlin #bostonstrangler #truecrime #coldcase #mystery #podcast #investigation #justice #history #crime #unsolved #dna #serialkiller Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-09-06.txt

  2. 2d ago

    The Last Autograph: The Quiet Murder of John Lennon | The Missing Journal

    In this episode of The Missing Journal, host Alison Best dissects the tragic and meticulously planned murder of John Lennon on December 8, 1980. This true crime deep dive explores the chilling narrative of Mark David Chapman, a former security guard who waited outside The Dakota in New York City for hours, driven by a twisted interpretation of J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. Chapman viewed Lennon as the ultimate 'phony' due to perceived contradictions between his anti-establishment lyrics and his wealthy lifestyle. The episode examines the psychological mechanics behind the assassination, detailing how Chapman blended into the crowd, interacted gently with Lennon’s son Sean, and ultimately fired five shots from a .38 Special revolver, ending the life of one of music’s most iconic figures. We explore the final ordinary moments of Lennon’s life, including the famous naked Rolling Stone photoshoot with Annie Leibovitz and his last interview with radio disc jockeys Dave Sholin and Laurie Kaye. A central focus is the heartbreaking irony of Chapman asking for an autograph on Lennon’s album Double Fantasy just before committing the act. That signed copy became crucial evidence in the investigation. The narration delves into the immediate aftermath, the global outpouring of grief, Yoko Ono’s request for ten minutes of silence, and the legal proceedings that resulted in Chapman’s sentence of twenty years to life. By analyzing the paper trail and the psychological profile of the killer, we uncover how a fan turned executioner, erasing a complex human being into a symbol of hypocrisy. This episode serves as both a historical record and a meditation on fame, mental illness, and the fragility of life. It is designed for listeners interested in cold cases, true crime mysteries, and the intersection of pop culture and justice. We examine the specific details that allowed Chapman to remain undetected until it was too late, from his careful avoidance of bringing ammunition on the plane to his calm demeanor at the scene of the crime. The story highlights the contrast between Lennon’s vulnerability and the brutal reality of the shooting, offering a respectful yet unflinching look at one of the darkest days in music history. Understanding these events helps us process the sudden loss and the enduring impact of Lennon’s legacy on generations of fans worldwide. Join Alison Best as she reconstructs the timeline of that fateful Tuesday night in Manhattan. Listen now to hear the full account of The Last Autograph, exploring the quiet murder that shook the world. If you find value in these deep dives into unsolved questions and historical truths, please support the show through the link below. Your support allows us to continue bringing you well-researched, cinematic storytelling that honors the victims and seeks clarity in the shadows of history. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_John_Lennon · https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27428960/ More from The Missing Journal: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-journal-2 Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_John_Lennon Topics: john lennon murder, mark david chapman, the dakota new york, true crime podcast, cold case investigation, double fantasy album, annie leibovitz photo, justice delayed, yoko ono, catcher in the rye symbolism, roosevelt hospital, music history tragedy, psychological profiling, new york city crimes #johnlennon #truelcrime #coldcase #musicmystery #markdavidchapman #thadakota #podcastshow #historicaltruecrime #unsolvedquestions #musiclegacy #nyccrime #investigativejournalism Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-journal-2/2026-09-04.txt

  • 2 Episodes

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.

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