The Adelsons: STS Files

Joel Waldman

The Adelsons: STS Files delves into one of the most captivating and controversial true crime sagas in modern American history — the murder-for-hire plot that claimed the life of FSU law professor Dan Markel. This investigative deep dive uncovers the complex web of family ties, deception, and alleged conspiracy surrounding the Adelson family — including Charlie, Donna, and Wendi Adelson — as prosecutors unravel years of hidden motives, phone records, and undercover recordings. Through in-depth analysis, exclusive updates, and courtroom insights, STS Files brings listeners behind the headlines to explore how a bitter custody battle turned into a national story of betrayal, justice, and manipulation. Each episode dissects trial testimony, evidence, and the emotional aftermath still haunting Tallahassee and beyond. Whether you're a true crime enthusiast, a legal drama follower, or simply fascinated by real-life criminal investigations, this series offers the definitive account of the Adelson family’s involvement in the Dan Markel case — a story still unfolding inside and outside the courtroom.

  1. FEB 6

    Charlie Adelson's Appelate Hearing After Being Convicted of Murder for Dan Markel

    The Charlie Adelson appellate hearing is underway following his conviction for the murder of Dan Markel, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. In this episode, we break down what happened in court, what Adelson’s defense is arguing on appeal, and why prosecutors say the conviction should stand. The Charlie Adelson appellate hearing could determine whether this high-profile verdict is upheld or challenged in the next phase of the legal fight. We examine key moments from the hearing, how survivor stories continue to shape public attention, and why this case remains at the center of true crime news. From unresolved questions to broader implications for cold cases, the Charlie Adelson appellate hearing is another chapter in one of the most closely watched real crime stories covered on the STS podcast. Key Points Covered: Overview of Charlie Adelson’s appellate hearing Defense arguments challenging the murder conviction Prosecutors’ response and legal hurdles on appeal Impact on survivor stories and the Markel family Why this case still dominates true crime news and cold case discussions 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.   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.

    2h 8m
  2. FEB 5

    Charlie Adelson's Case Being Reviewed & Wendi's Emails with Her Mom

    The Charlie Adelson case is back in the spotlight as new developments emerge with his appellate review. In this episode, we break down what the review could mean for the convicted killer of Dan Markel, while also diving into recently uncovered emails between Wendi Adelson and her mother. The Charlie Adelson case raises questions about family dynamics, hidden communications, and how they might connect to the original investigation. We cover the key points from the appellate review, examine the emails for new insights, and discuss what this could mean for the Charlie Adelson case moving forward. Listeners get a concise, clear look at legal updates, family correspondence, and the ongoing impact of one of the most closely followed true crime cases. Key Points Covered in This Episode: Overview of the Charlie Adelson case appellate review Insights from Wendi Adelson’s emails with her mother How family communications may relate to the Markel investigation What legal experts are saying about the review Possible outcomes and next steps in the case Perfect for followers of survivor stories, true crime news, cold cases, STS podcast, and real crime stories, this episode delivers a direct and factual update on all the latest developments. 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.

    1h 16m
  3. JAN 28

    Charlie Adelson: Everything We Know About Charlie, The Appeal & The People Who Will Decide His Fate

    The Charlie Adelson appeal is now underway, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. In this episode of Surviving The Survivor, we break down everything we know about Charlie Adelson, the Charlie Adelson appeal, and the key people who will ultimately decide his fate. As one of the most closely followed cases in true crime news, the Charlie Adelson appeal could reshape how this story ends. We explain where the case stands legally, what arguments are expected in the appeal, and who the judges are that will review the record. The episode also explores Charlie Adelson’s background, how his conviction unfolded, and what outcomes are realistically on the table. Key Points Covered in This Episode: A full overview of Charlie Adelson’s case Where the Charlie Adelson appeal stands right now Who will decide the appeal and how the process works Key legal arguments expected from both sides Possible outcomes and what happens next Why this case continues to dominate public attention A clear, no-nonsense breakdown for listeners following real crime stories, true crime news, and survivor stories, delivered by the STS podcast, where cold cases and courtroom drama meet.   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.

    1h 24m
  4. 12/23/2025

    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.

    1h 35m
  5. 12/23/2025

    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.

    1h 40m
  6. 12/23/2025

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

    As the justice system tightens its grip on the Adelson family, Donna Adelson, Charlie Adelson, and three others are now behind bars for the murder of Florida State Professor Dan Markel—a case that continues to captivate the nation. For Donna, this marks her first holiday season in prison, facing the reality of a life sentence for her role in the murder-for-hire plot that shattered her own family and shocked Tallahassee.  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 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.

    1h 42m
  7. 12/23/2025

    Former Juror Breaks Silence on Katie Magbanua Trial: New Insight Into Adelson Murder-for-Hire Saga

    For the first time ever, a key juror from the Katie Magbanua trial is coming forward to speak openly about the case that ignited the long, twisting road toward justice for Dan Markel. In this exclusive STS interview, the juror shares what really happened inside the deliberation room—and how those decisions ultimately paved the way for the Adelson convictions that followed.  Welcome to Surviving the Survivor, the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #Truecrime. In this STS special episode, Emmy Award-Winning Host and Journalist Joel Waldman is joined by esteemed Tallahassee Defense Attorney Tim Jansen and a Juror from Katie Magbanua's trial.  Dan Markel, a father of two and a well-respected FSU law professor, was murdered in a cold-blooded murder-for-hire plot in 2014. Katie Magbanua, Luis Rivera and Sigfredo Garcia have all been convicted along with Dan's ex brother-in-law Charlie Adelson and his ex mother-in-law Donna Adelson. The fight for justice for Dan continues and questions still swirl around who else may be held accountable next... 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 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.

    1h 47m
  8. 12/22/2025

    The Mastermind: Was Donna Adelson Outsmarted Behind Bars?

    She was called the mastermind behind one of Florida’s most shocking murder-for-hire plots — the killing of FSU law professor Dan Markel. But now that Donna Adelson is serving life behind bars, insiders say the woman once known for controlling everyone around her may have finally lost control.  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 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.

    1h 47m

About

The Adelsons: STS Files delves into one of the most captivating and controversial true crime sagas in modern American history — the murder-for-hire plot that claimed the life of FSU law professor Dan Markel. This investigative deep dive uncovers the complex web of family ties, deception, and alleged conspiracy surrounding the Adelson family — including Charlie, Donna, and Wendi Adelson — as prosecutors unravel years of hidden motives, phone records, and undercover recordings. Through in-depth analysis, exclusive updates, and courtroom insights, STS Files brings listeners behind the headlines to explore how a bitter custody battle turned into a national story of betrayal, justice, and manipulation. Each episode dissects trial testimony, evidence, and the emotional aftermath still haunting Tallahassee and beyond. Whether you're a true crime enthusiast, a legal drama follower, or simply fascinated by real-life criminal investigations, this series offers the definitive account of the Adelson family’s involvement in the Dan Markel case — a story still unfolding inside and outside the courtroom.

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