Donna Adelson: STS Files

Joel Waldman

The Adelson family of Miami has become one of the most infamous names in true crime after prosecutors revealed their shocking role in the murder-for-hire plot that claimed the life of their ex son-in-law Florida State University law professor Dan Markel. In July 2014, Markel was ambushed and gunned down in the driveway of his Tallahassee home, a crime investigator says this was orchestrated by the wealthy Adelson family, who hired hitmen to follow and kill him. The motive? A bitter custody battle and family feud that escalated into cold-blooded murder. This case has gripped the nation, exposing the dark side of power, money, and control—all under the shadow of a Miami family accused of going to deadly lengths to get what they wanted. The Matriarch Donna Adelson and her son, Charlie Adelson, are now both behind bars...but the road to Justice for Dan isn't over. Who is next?

  1. 3 days ago

    Georgia Cappleman & Investigator Jason Newlin Share Details & New Information about Adelsons

    The Adelson case updates continue as lead prosecutor Georgia Cappleman and investigator Jason Newlin share new details about the Dan Markel murder-for-hire investigation. In this episode of the STS podcast, we break down the latest Adelson case updates, including new information about the Adelson family, the investigation, and what these developments could mean as the case moves forward. The Adelson case updates remain at the center of one of the biggest stories in true crime news. Join Emmy Award-winning journalist Joel Waldman and the #BestGuests in true crime as Georgia Cappleman and Jason Newlin discuss the investigation, key evidence, courtroom strategy, and behind-the-scenes insights into one of the nation's most closely watched murder cases. Our panel examines the latest revelations, explains how investigators built the case, and explores what may lie ahead for the ongoing legal proceedings involving the Adelsons. Whether you've followed the Dan Markel case from the beginning or are catching up on the latest developments, this episode delivers a direct, conversational, and concise breakdown filled with expert legal analysis and exclusive insights. Stay informed with compelling real crime stories, inspiring survivor stories, the latest true crime news, discussions of notable cold cases, and trusted reporting from the STS podcast.Key Points from the Episode: Latest Adelson case updates from Georgia Cappleman and Jason Newlin New information about the Adelson investigation Discussion of key evidence and investigative strategy Behind-the-scenes insights into the Dan Markel murder case Expert legal and courtroom analysis What these updates could mean for future proceedings Questions answered by the prosecution and lead investigator Subscribe, Like & Set Alerts to "ALL" for show times & breaking news. https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingThe... Become a Member: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yr... Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com Surviving The Survivor is a leading destination for true crime analysis, breaking crime news, murder trial coverage, criminal investigations, courtroom breakdowns, and live case discussions. Hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Joel Waldman and his mother Karm, a child Holocaust survivor, STS brings together top FBI profilers, homicide detectives, criminal defense attorneys, prosecutors, forensic experts, journalists, victims' advocates, and survivors to analyze the biggest true crime stories. From high-profile murder cases and missing persons investigations to serial killers, criminal psychology, police procedures, and major court trials, STS delivers fact-based reporting and expert insight from those who have worked some of the nation's most notorious cases. Known for having the best guest in true crime, STS gives viewers direct access to the experts behind the headlines. Join #STSNation for live shows, breaking updates, audience Q&As, and in-depth case analysis.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  2. 11 Jul

    Adelsons are Behind Bars for Muder for hire of Dan Markel but Family Keeps Fighting for Justice

    The fight for Dan Markel justice continues as members of the Adelson family remain behind bars or face ongoing legal proceedings in the murder-for-hire case that shocked the nation. In this episode of the STS podcast, we examine the latest developments in the pursuit of Dan Markel justice, how the Markel family continues to honor Dan's legacy, and what legal battles may still lie ahead. The call for Dan Markel justice remains at the center of one of the biggest stories in true crime news. Join Emmy Award-winning journalist Joel Waldman and the #BestGuests in true crime as they discuss the convictions, pending cases, and unanswered questions that continue to surround the murder-for-hire plot. We explore the impact on Ruth Markel and the Markel family, the upcoming legal proceedings involving Donna Adelson, and whether additional accountability could still emerge as the investigation and court cases continue. More than a decade after Dan Markel's murder, his family remains committed to seeking justice while preserving his legacy as a father, scholar, and beloved son. This episode delivers a direct, conversational, and concise update with expert legal analysis, compelling real crime stories, inspiring survivor stories, the latest true crime news, discussions of significant cold cases, and trusted coverage from the STS podcast.Key Points from the Episode: The ongoing fight for Dan Markel justice Current legal status of the Adelson family cases The Markel family's continued pursuit of accountability Latest developments in the murder-for-hire investigation Donna Adelson's upcoming legal proceedings Expert legal analysis from the #BestGuests Dan Markel's lasting legacy and the road ahead Today marks the 12th yahrzeit of Dan Markel, the beloved Florida State University law professor who was murdered in a shocking murder-for-hire plot outside his Tallahassee home in 2014. Twelve years later, Dan's family continues its relentless fight for justice as one of the nation's most closely followed true crime cases remains in the spotlight.  Dan Markel was ambushed and fatally shot in what prosecutors described as a murder-for-hire conspiracy following a bitter custody dispute. The case has led to convictions and prosecutions involving members of the Adelson family, including Dan's ex brother-in-law Charlie Adelson and his ex mother-in-law Donna Adelson. Dan's ex-wife, Wendi Adelson, continues to be a central figure in public discussion surrounding the case--and what happens next in the pursuit of justice.  Join STS and Ruth Markel, Dan's mom, as we honor Dan Markel's life, remember his legacy, and discuss why the fight for truth and justice is not over yet.  #DanMarkel #WendiAdelson #DonnaAdelson #CharlieAdelson #JusticeForDanMarkel #TrueCrime #MurderForHire #Tallahassee #STSSubscribe Subscribe, Like & Set Alerts to "ALL" for show times & breaking news. https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingThe... Become a Member: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yr... Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com Surviving The Survivor is a leading destination for true crime analysis, breaking crime news, murder trial coverage, criminal investigati... Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. 6 Jul

    Inside Prison: Former Inmates on Apologizing, Accountability & Why Some Never Change

    Former inmates on accountability offer a rare and honest look inside prison life, discussing why some offenders show genuine remorse while others never accept responsibility for their crimes. In this episode of the STS podcast, we hear from former inmates on accountability as they share firsthand experiences about apologies behind bars, prison culture, rehabilitation, and what separates real remorse from empty words. The insights from former inmates on accountability are fueling important conversations in true crime news about justice, redemption, and personal change. Our expert panel explores the psychology of criminal behavior, the challenges of rehabilitation, and whether accountability can truly lead to transformation. We also discuss victim impact, the role of sincere apologies in the justice system, and why some inmates continue to deny responsibility even after conviction. From prison culture to the difficult path toward redemption, this episode connects to powerful real crime stories, inspiring survivor stories, and even lessons drawn from notorious cold cases. If you're interested in what really happens behind prison walls, this episode delivers a direct and concise look at remorse, accountability, and why some offenders never change.Key Points from the Episode: Former inmates share firsthand experiences about accountability The difference between genuine remorse and performative apologies Why some inmates never accept responsibility The realities of prison culture and rehabilitation How victims and families view apologies from offenders Expert analysis on criminal psychology and behavior Can prison truly change a person? Former Inmates take us behind bars as we take a closer look at the psyche of prisoners' apologies, appeals and why some inmates find remorse. This comes after convicted hitman Luis Rivera wrote an apology to the Markels for being involved in their son's murder. Dan Markel, who was shot and killed in a murder for hire plot, believed in forgiveness and often discussed retributive justice. Tonight, we take a look at how it all comes together in the tragic murder case of law professor Dan Markel. Subscribe, Like & Set Alerts to "ALL" for show times & breaking news. https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingThe... Become a Member: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yr... Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com Surviving The Survivor is a leading destination for true crime analysis, breaking crime news, murder trial coverage, criminal investigations, courtroom breakdowns, and live case discussions. Hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Joel Waldman and his mother Karm, a child Holocaust survivor, STS brings together top FBI profilers, homicide detectives, criminal defense attorneys, prosecutors, forensic experts, journalists, victims' advocates, and survivors to analyze the biggest true crime stories. From high-profile murder cases and missing persons investigations to serial killers, criminal psychology, police procedures, and major court trials, STS delivers fact-based reporting and expert insight from those who have worked some of the nation's most notorious cases. Known for having the best guest in true crime, STS gives viewers direct access to the experts behind the headlines. Join #STSNation for live shows, breaking updates, audience Q&As, and in-depth case analysis.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  4. 2 Jun

    We Show You The Sealed Document Donna Adelson and Her Attorneys Didn't Want Us to Read

    The Donna Adelson sealed document is now at the center of intense debate as STS reveals the court filing Donna Adelson and her attorneys reportedly fought to keep hidden from the public. In this episode of the STS podcast, we break down the contents of the Donna Adelson sealed document, what it could mean for the Dan Markel murder case, and why legal experts believe the filing may contain critical information tied to the investigation. The Donna Adelson sealed document is quickly becoming one of the biggest topics in true crime news. We take a closer look at the legal battle over sealed records, what prosecutors and defense attorneys may be trying to protect, and how newly revealed details could impact the upcoming trial. This episode also explores the broader Adelson family investigation and the growing scrutiny surrounding key players connected to the case. As new information continues to emerge, this story connects to broader real crime stories, unresolved cold cases, and emotional survivor stories that highlight the long search for justice in the murder of Dan Markel. If you’re following this high-profile case, this episode delivers a direct and concise breakdown of the newly revealed document and the questions it raises moving forward.Key Points from the Episode: Breakdown of the Donna Adelson sealed document Why attorneys allegedly wanted the filing hidden Legal analysis of sealed court records Potential impact on the Dan Markel murder case What newly revealed details could mean moving forward If you or someone you know experienced serious mental health struggles as a result of social media use, you may be entitled to a potential recovery of over $1,000. Visit https://morganmorganpa.sjv.io/c/72737... to submit a claim now. Donna Adelson and her attorneys fought to keep this explosive document sealed — but now STS is revealing what was hidden from the public. In this LIVE breakdown, Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman and #BestGuests including Tallahassee's R. Timothy Jansen uncover shocking new details tied to the Dan Markel murder-for-hire case and Donna Adelson’s legal battle. Don’t miss the latest twists, courtroom drama, and breaking true crime analysis in one of the most high-profile murder cases in America. #DonnaAdelson #DanMarkel #TrueCrime #JusticeForDan Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  5. 23/12/2025

    Donna Adelson's Life in Homestead and NEW Details about Donna's Jail Life Before Transfer

    We explore Donna Adelson’s life in Homestead and the new details emerging about her time in jail before being transferred. In this episode, we cover the latest updates on Donna Adelson, including her daily routines, interactions, and conditions behind bars. From official reports to firsthand accounts, we break down what is known about her behavior and experiences prior to transfer. This episode provides a concise, fact-based look at Donna Adelson, her life before incarceration, and the latest developments in her story, giving listeners a clear picture of her current situation. Key Points Covered in This Episode Overview of Donna Adelson’s life in Homestead New details about her jail life prior to transfer Daily routines and interactions while incarcerated Official reports and firsthand accounts of her behavior Insights into conditions and treatment in the facility What the transfer may mean for her future A direct, factual update on Donna Adelson, highlighting her Homestead life and new information from her jail experience before transfer. Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  6. 23/12/2025

    Donna Adelson TRANSFERRED! Inside Her New Life at Homestead Correctional

    Donna Adelson transferred—and her move to Homestead Correctional is raising new questions about her daily life behind bars. In this episode of Surviving The Survivor, we break down what it means that Donna Adelson transferred facilities, what her new environment looks like, and how this shift could impact her legal future. As Donna Adelson transferred to Homestead Correctional, attention turns to conditions, restrictions, and what comes next in this closely watched case dominating true crime news. We examine why the transfer happened, what inmates typically experience at Homestead, and how this change fits into the broader legal timeline. Experts weigh in on what life is really like inside the facility and what this move signals as the case continues. Key Points Covered in This Episode: Why Donna Adelson was transferred to Homestead Correctional What her new daily life may look like inside the facility Security level, housing conditions, and inmate routines How the transfer could affect legal strategy and access What this move suggests about next steps in the case Key questions still surrounding Donna Adelson’s future A clear update for listeners following real crime stories, true crime news, and survivor stories, delivered by the STS podcast, where cold cases and breaking developments intersect.   Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  7. 23/12/2025

    Donna Adelson’s First Holiday in Prison: Former Inmates Reveal the Truth & Realities Behind Bars

    Donna Adelson faces her first holiday behind bars, and in this episode we explore what that really means inside prison walls. Former inmates reveal the emotional realities, daily routines, and unspoken rules that shape life during the holidays, offering insight into what Donna Adelson may be experiencing. From isolation to prison politics, we break down the truth about spending special occasions incarcerated and how high-profile inmates like Donna Adelson navigate life behind bars. This STS podcast episode connects the story to broader survivor stories, true crime news, cold cases, and real crime stories that continue to grip national attention. We also discuss how incarceration impacts families, public perception, and the long road through the criminal justice system. Key Points Covered: What holidays are really like inside prison Insights from former inmates on daily life behind bars Emotional and psychological impact of incarceration How high-profile inmates are treated Connections to survivor stories, true crime news, cold cases, STS podcast insights, and real crime stories  In this STS episode, Emmy Award-winning host Joel Waldman is joined by #BestGuests, including formerly incarcerated women, who pull back the curtain on what really happens behind prison walls. They reveal what first-timers like Donna Adelson can expect—from housing units and daily routines to inmate politics and the emotional crash that hits hardest during the holidays. Our experts also detail what life looks like now for long-term inmates like Katherine “Katie” Magbanua, who has been living this reality for years.  We break down the psychological toll, the power struggles, the silence, the surveillance, and the stark difference between county jail and state prison.  If you follow the Adelson case, prison life realities, or major true-crime breakthroughs, you won’t want to miss this one.  You can support and help Drina get back on her feet here via an Amazon Wish List: Https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls... Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  8. 22/12/2025

    The Mastermind: Was Donna Adelson Outsmarted Behind Bars?

    The latest developments surrounding Donna Adelson jail calls raise new questions about strategy, control, and whether the alleged mastermind miscalculated while behind bars. In this episode, we analyze newly discussed details connected to the Adelson murder-for-hire saga and what the Donna Adelson jail calls may reveal about shifting legal dynamics and investigative pressure. We break down courtroom context, prosecution theories, and how recorded conversations could influence upcoming legal proceedings. The discussion explores whether investigators gained unexpected advantages, how communication from jail can impact a case, and why observers believe these moments may change public perception. As true crime news continues to unfold, the Donna Adelson jail calls provide insight into decision-making during one of the most talked-about real crime stories in recent years. Through survivor stories, expert commentary, and ongoing STS podcast coverage, this episode examines the psychology behind alleged masterminds, legal risk, and the consequences of every word spoken while incarcerated. We also revisit related cold cases questions and how this evolving investigation may shape future courtroom strategies. Key Points Covered: Analysis of Donna Adelson’s jail communications Possible investigative advantages gained by authorities Legal implications of recorded jail calls Connection to the Adelson murder-for-hire case Public reaction and trial impact Broader themes in survivor stories, true crime news, cold cases, STS podcast, and real crime stories  Welcome to Surviving the Survivor, the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime. In this STS episode, Emmy Award-winning Journalist Joel Waldman and Co-Host Karmela Waldman take a closer look inside Donna’s prison life — from her alleged manipulation tactics to what inmates and informants are now revealing about her behavior behind bars.  Did the woman accused of orchestrating her ex-son-in-law’s murder get played in prison? Or is Donna still pulling the strings?  STS continues to cover this case as it develops.  #JusticeforDanMarkel Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About

The Adelson family of Miami has become one of the most infamous names in true crime after prosecutors revealed their shocking role in the murder-for-hire plot that claimed the life of their ex son-in-law Florida State University law professor Dan Markel. In July 2014, Markel was ambushed and gunned down in the driveway of his Tallahassee home, a crime investigator says this was orchestrated by the wealthy Adelson family, who hired hitmen to follow and kill him. The motive? A bitter custody battle and family feud that escalated into cold-blooded murder. This case has gripped the nation, exposing the dark side of power, money, and control—all under the shadow of a Miami family accused of going to deadly lengths to get what they wanted. The Matriarch Donna Adelson and her son, Charlie Adelson, are now both behind bars...but the road to Justice for Dan isn't over. Who is next?

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