True Crime, Authors & Extraordinary People

David McClam
  • 4.4 (156)
  • TRUE CRIME
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
True Crime, Authors & Extraordinary People

This is the podcast where two passions become one. Here weekly I will present a true crime story. It may be a crime you know about and it may be one that is new to you. Every other week, I will be interviewing an author. Maybe an author and some books you have never known about. So if you like True crime and have a passion to read, this is the podcast for you!

  1. Surviving the Storm: A Journey of Resilience and Truth

    1 DAY AGO

    Surviving the Storm: A Journey of Resilience and Truth

    David McClam shares a deeply personal and moving account of his struggles over the past year, touching on themes of resilience, mental health, and the importance of community support. He reflects on a significant moment involving his son, who faced a serious mental health crisis, prompting David to reevaluate his purpose in podcasting and the impact of his voice. Throughout the episode, David emphasizes the relentless battle between good and evil in the world, asserting that truth and compassion will ultimately prevail. He also recounts a serendipitous encounter with actor Tico Wells, which reignited his passion for storytelling and reaffirmed the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. As he prepares for a return to the podcast, David expresses gratitude for the support of friends, family, and listeners, reminding everyone of the extraordinary potential within each person to make a difference. Takeaways: David McClam emphasizes the importance of recognizing our worth and the impact of mental health. The staggering statistic of one person lost to suicide every 40 seconds highlights urgency. Listeners are encouraged to reach out to the suicide prevention hotline if needed. David shares personal stories of struggle, emphasizing the need for community support. The episode explores the challenges faced by individuals in the face of adversity. DON'T FORGET TO RATE, COMMENT AND SUBSCRIBE JOIN ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA BY FOLLOWING THE LINKTREE Follow Our Family Of True Crime Shows Deep Dark Secrets with LaDonna Humphrey & Amy Smith True Crime, Authors and Extraordinary People With David McClam Extinguished With David McClam & LaDonna Humphrey Cover Art and Logo created by Diana of Other Worldly Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr

    43 min
  2. The Madness of John Terrell With Author Stephen Terrell

    6 DAYS AGO

    The Madness of John Terrell With Author Stephen Terrell

    Stephen Terrell, a novelist and retired attorney, shares the gripping story of his great-uncle John Terrell, who became notorious for a murder that shocked Indiana in 1903. Terrell's book, "The Madness of John Terrell: Revenge and Insanity on Trial in the Heartland," delves into the complexities of family history and the dark legacy that can emerge from it. As Stephen recounts the intriguing details of John’s life, including his rise to wealth through oil discovery and the tragic events that led to the fatal confrontation with his son-in-law Melvin Wolf, listeners gain insight into the societal issues of the time, such as bullying and mental health struggles. The discussion also touches upon the legal proceedings that followed, highlighting the stark contrasts in public perception of John Terrell as both a respected businessman and a man driven to violence. This episode not only uncovers a captivating true crime narrative but also invites reflection on enduring social challenges that echo through history.  Get your Copy of The Madness Of John Terrell Revenge and Insanity on trial in the heartland  HERE Takeaways: The podcast discusses the complex history of the Terrell family, including a notorious murder case from the early 1900s. Stephen Terrell's book, 'The Madness of John Terrell,' explores themes of family, violence, and societal perceptions of morality. The trial of John Terrell revealed deep community divisions regarding his character and actions, influenced by his atheism. Throughout the episode, the importance of sharing stories and understanding our family histories is underscored. Listeners are encouraged to reach out for help if they or someone they know is struggling with suicidal thoughts. DON'T FORGET TO RATE, COMMENT AND SUBSCRIBE JOIN ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA BY FOLLOWING THE LINKTREE Follow Our Family Of True Crime Shows Deep Dark Secrets with LaDonna Humphrey & Amy Smith True Crime, Authors and Extraordinary People With David McClam Extinguished With David McClam & LaDonna Humphrey Cover Art and Logo created by Diana of Other Worldly Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr

    31 min
  3. The Grays of Truth: A Journey Through History and Mystery

    DEC 11

    The Grays of Truth: A Journey Through History and Mystery

    Sharon Virts, a New York Times bestselling author, joins David McClam to discuss her latest book, "Graves of Truth," which was released just before Halloween on October 29, 2024. This atmospheric historical mystery thriller delves into a series of suspicious deaths among Baltimore's elite during the Reconstruction era, exploring themes of deceit, mental health, and the societal constraints faced by women of the time. Sharon shares her unique writing process, emphasizing the importance of character development and the balance between historical accuracy and narrative engagement. The conversation also touches on her passion for historical preservation, her love for graveyards, and the inspiration she draws from the past. Join them for an enlightening discussion that blends true crime, history, and the art of storytelling. Takeaways: Sharon Virts discusses her passion for writing and how it serves as therapy. David McClam emphasizes the importance of mental health and resources like Dial 988. The historical context of Sharon's book, Grays of Truth, reflects societal issues from the 1870s. Sharon shares her unique connection to graveyards and how they inspire her writing. The podcast highlights the significance of capturing personal stories for future generations. Sharon's approach to character development involves deep research and understanding their backgrounds. Get your Copy of The Grays Of Truth  HERE Chapters: 00:10 - Introduction to The Grays of Truth09:18 - Restoration of Selma Mansion: A Labor of Love17:42 - The Spirit of the House21:02 - The Making of a Mystery: Unveiling the Characters32:51 - Jane's Journey and Inner Demons DON'T FORGET TO RATE, COMMENT AND SUBSCRIBE JOIN ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA BY FOLLOWING THE LINKTREE Follow Our Family Of True Crime Shows Deep Dark Secrets with LaDonna Humphrey & Amy Smith True Crime, Authors and Extraordinary People With David McClam Extinguished With David McClam & LaDonna Humphrey Cover Art and Logo created by Diana of Other Worldly Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr

    49 min

  4. NOV 27

    From Son to Father: A Raw Conversation on Child Development

    The podcast episode delves into the profound complexities of fatherhood as David McClam engages in a heartfelt conversation with his son, DaVonte. The discussion opens with a poignant acknowledgment of mental health awareness, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one’s worth and the devastating impact of suicide. This sets a serious tone that resonates throughout the episode, as the duo navigates the challenges and triumphs of parenting across generations. DaVonte shares his personal experiences as a father, reflecting on how his upbringing shapes his parenting style today. He candidly discusses the lessons learned from his own childhood, especially the feelings of being misunderstood and the pressure to conform, which ultimately led him to make choices that placed him in difficult situations. The dialogue showcases how DaVonte’s role as a father to his three boys informs his understanding of what it means to offer love, support, and structure while also allowing for autonomy. As the conversation progresses, the complexities of co-parenting emerge, particularly the struggles DaVonte faces in maintaining a positive relationship with his children amidst challenges with their mother. His commitment to shielding his children from negative perceptions of their mother highlights the lengths he is willing to go to protect their emotional well-being. The episode underscores the theme of communication within families, advocating for open dialogues that foster understanding and healing. David and DaVonte’s candid exchanges reflect not only their personal journey but also serve as a reminder of the universal challenges parents face, inviting listeners to reflect on their experiences and the essential bonds that define familial relationships. Takeaways: DaVonte shares how becoming a father transformed his perspective on childhood experiences. The importance of being present in a child's early years cannot be overstated. Parenting is not a linear journey; each child requires a unique approach. Communication between parents and children is crucial for emotional development and understanding. DaVonte emphasizes the need for grace and understanding in the parent-child relationship. Childhood experiences shape our adult selves, making reflection and growth essential. Chapters: 00:09 - Changing the Statistics on Suicide05:21 - A Conversation on Fatherhood12:25 - Navigating Parenthood and Divorce21:40 - Navigating Parenting Challenges29:26 - Navigating Middle School Challenges37:47 - The Changing Landscape of Education43:09 - The Challenges of Parenting Across Generations DON'T FORGET TO RATE, COMMENT AND SUBSCRIBE JOIN ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA BY FOLLOWING THE LINKTREE Follow Our Family Of True Crime Shows Deep Dark Secrets with LaDonna Humphrey & Amy Smith True Crime, Authors and Extraordinary People With David McClam Extinguished With David McClam & LaDonna Humphrey Cover Art and Logo created by Diana of Other Worldly Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam Intro and outro...

    58 min
  5. Behind the Pages: The Real Politics of Energy in LA Starks' 'Winner's Curse'

    OCT 13

    Behind the Pages: The Real Politics of Energy in LA Starks' 'Winner's Curse'

    A riveting dialogue unfolds as LA Starks joins David McClam on the podcast, where she delves into the intricate worlds of energy politics and thrilling fiction. The episode begins with a heartfelt message from the host, addressing mental health awareness, which sets a compassionate tone for the conversation. Starks, known for her gripping thrillers, shares her journey from engineering to writing, highlighting her academic achievements and the unique perspective they lend to her storytelling. The discussion pivots to her latest work, 'Winner's Curse', which follows the formidable Lynn Dayton as she navigates a treacherous landscape of corporate sabotage and high-stakes energy dealings. Starks elaborates on the character of Lynn Dayton, portraying her as a strong, multifaceted woman fighting against the odds in a male-dominated industry. This character is not just a representation of strength but also embodies the complexities of navigating power dynamics within corporate environments. The conversation further explores the thematic connections between Starks's fictional narratives and current global energy issues, showcasing how her real-world expertise informs her writing. The episode emphasizes the importance of representation in literature, especially strong female characters who challenge societal norms and expectations. As the dialogue progresses, listeners are introduced to the broader implications of energy politics, with Starks drawing on her professional experiences to illustrate the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the field. The episode culminates in a compelling invitation for listeners to engage with 'Winner's Curse', framing it as not only an entertaining read but also a reflection of the pressing issues facing the energy sector today. McClam’s closing remarks reinforce the significance of storytelling in understanding complex societal issues, encouraging an appreciation for the narratives that shape our world. Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and encourages listeners to reach out for help. Lynn Dayton, the protagonist in LA Starks's book, embodies a strong female character in a male-dominated industry. The energy sector is depicted as high-stakes, providing a compelling backdrop for thrillers. LA Starks combines her engineering background with her passion for writing to create engaging thrillers. The conversation highlights how current political issues around energy are reflected in Starks's writing. Listeners are reminded of the significance of supporting authors by purchasing and reading their works. Get your Copy of Winners Cures HERE Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast00:02 - Awareness and Support for Mental Health00:20 - Welcome to True Crime Authors and Extraordinary People00:39 - Meet the Host, David McClam01:49 - Introducing LA Starks, Author and Engineer06:55 - The Journey of Lynn Dayton: A Strong Protagonist04:19 - Insights on the Energy Industry from LA Starks04:46 - Exploring the Plot of Winner's Curse05:47 - The Politics of Energy in Today's World16:42 - LA Starks' Personal Experience in the Energy Field26:23 - The Impact of the Pandemic on Energy and Environment31:37 - Conclusion and Final...

    33 min

  6. OCT 11

    Crazy Summer!! Navigating Chaos, Ignorance and Rocking the Vote!

    What happens when your personal trials become public battles? We're diving deep into the drama that unfolded over the summer, involving alleged harassment and shocking legal disputes. Names like Anthony Christopher and Javier Leiva have become part of a narrative filled with accusations and attempts to undermine my work. Drawing strength from adversity, I liken this struggle to the "Eminem effect," where challenges only serve to strengthen the show's foundation. I also share insights into the...

    20 min
  7. Ep 35. From Empowerment to Enslavement: The True Story of NXIVM

    JUL 27

    Ep 35. From Empowerment to Enslavement: The True Story of NXIVM

    This episode delves into NXIVM, a group founded by Keith Raniere in 1988 that masqueraded as a personal development company but was later exposed as a cult. Following testimonies from former members in 2017, authorities investigated NXIVM, leading to Raniere’s arrest in March 2018 on charges including human trafficking and fraud. He was convicted in June 2019 and sentenced to 120 years in prison, although some followers remain loyal.NXIVM drew inspiration from Ayn Rand and gained notoriety th...

    31 min
  8. Ep 34 Update

    JUL 27

    Ep 34 Update

    David returns after a break due to his wife’s successful surgery, announcing the resumption of regular episodes, including one on the Nexium cult, and updates about other associated podcasts. After six years of solo production, David has hired a researcher to aid with case research, maintaining the same format. David introduces his new podcast, “We Are Not Afraid,” which combats misinformation against LaDonna Humphrey, facing slander from another podcast. Despite negative social media feedbac...

    17 min
See All (117)

4.4
out of 5
156 Ratings

About

This is the podcast where two passions become one. Here weekly I will present a true crime story. It may be a crime you know about and it may be one that is new to you. Every other week, I will be interviewing an author. Maybe an author and some books you have never known about. So if you like True crime and have a passion to read, this is the podcast for you!

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