Best Bound By The Cloak Podcasts (2025)

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S5 Episode 15: Deep Sleep 1:09:12

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17d ago1:09:12

1:09:12

Step inside one of the most disturbing chapters in modern psychiatry. In this episode, author and journalist Jon Stock joins us to discuss his book The Sleep Room: A Sadistic Psychiatrist and the Women Who Survived Him, an investigation into the shocking experiments of Dr. William Sargant in 1960s London. Sargant’s so-called treatments—prolonged dr…

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S5 Episode 14: The Untold Story of East New York 54:25

1M ago54:25

54:25

In the early 1990s, East New York was known as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in America, a place dubbed “The Killing Fields” after a wave of murders shook Brooklyn. What if the real crime story started decades earlier, in boardrooms and banks? Author Stacy Horn takes us inside her new book, The Killing Fields of East New York, to uncover …

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S5 Episode 13: Intel - Secrets and Civil Liberties 58:31

2M ago58:31

58:31

What does it mean to live in a country built on freedom but shaped by secrecy? Intelligence work is often hidden in the shadows—but its impact shapes every facet of our public and private lives. We chat with Dr. Jeffrey Rogg, a historian who offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how American intelligence has evolved—and why it matters more than …

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S5 Episode 12: Interview with the Psychopath 47:57

2M ago47:57

47:57

What does it feel like to live without empathy—or guilt? Sociopathy is one of the most misunderstood diagnoses in psychology. We chat with Jamie who offers a rare, first-person glimpse into life with antisocial personality disorder. We discuss stigma, resilience, and the complexity of being “different” in a world built for emotional connection. Jam…

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S5 Episode 11: The Differences Between Us 1:03:15

3M ago1:03:15

1:03:15

Is race written in our DNA—or is that one of the most dangerous myths of modern science? In this episode, we speak with Dr. Rina Bliss, sociologist and author of What’s Real About Race: The New Genetics and the Future of Racism. With Rina, we challenge long-held assumptions about biology and race, revealing how cutting-edge genetic research is bein…

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S5 Episode 10: Breaking the Silence - Surviving the Golden State Killer 1:04:18

3M ago1:04:18

1:04:18

Kris Pedretti is the 10th known survivor of the Golden State Killer, Joseph James DeAngelo. After remaining silent for 42 years, she now courageously shares her journey of post-traumatic growth. In this episode, Kris opens up about what it took to confront her trauma decades later, how she found her voice, and why she’s dedicated her life to empowe…

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S5 Episode 9: Are the Kids Alright? 1:09:13

4M ago1:09:13

1:09:13

Why does parenting feel so much harder today? In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Runyon, a former child psychotherapist turned parent coach, author, and keynote speaker with over 22 years of experience in child and adolescent mental health. Nicole brings a rare ability to bridge the gap between generations, helping adults truly understand wha…

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S5 Episode 8: Celebrating the Weird and Wonderful - Windy City Paranormal Fest 46:47

4M ago46:47

46:47

What happens when the paranormal meets storytelling and community? Welcome to Windy City Paranormal Fest, Chicago’s celebration of all things strange and unexplained. In this episode, two of the creators, Franky Everleigh and Christina Rappel, share the story behind this unique fest, which brings together the curious and the courageous to explore e…

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S5 Episode 7: Health - Fad, Fact and Fiction 1:06:51

5M ago1:06:51

1:06:51

What does it truly mean to be healthy in today’s world, where diet culture and social pressures shape our perceptions of wellness? Martina Cartwright helps us break down the myths surrounding "perfect" health and wellness, offering empowering insights on how to reclaim a balanced, self-compassionate approach to living well. Martina is a registered …

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S5 Episode 6: Beyond the Pole 56:27

5M ago56:27

56:27

We've explored the world of escort service as well as the life of an OnlyFans model. This time we thought we'd explore the industry as it pertains to strippers. NatsHoney is an industry veteran with years of experience. NatsHoney is the President of Strippers United, a labor organization led by strippers advocating for fair wages, safety, and digni…

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S5 Episode 5: Essential 58:52

6M ago58:52

58:52

What exactly is a rape kit? What goes into it? Who created it? It's a question most of us have never thought to ask. The rape kit revolutionized forensic science and gave sexual assault survivors a powerful tool in the pursuit of justice. Pagan Kennedy had questions and went on a search for answers. While digging around, she learned of Marty Goddar…

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S5 Episode 4: A Very Furry Episode 1:14:49

6M ago1:14:49

1:14:49

The Furry subculture is a subculture that’s often misunderstood, misrepresented and wrapped in myth. So, what’s the real story behind the fandom? With Dr. Courtney Plante and others, we hear about the world of furries - the creativity, community, and identity of it all. Courtney is a social psychologist and co-founder of FurScience, the leading res…

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S5 Episode 3: Exploring America - The Gullah Geechee Corridor 59:57

7M ago59:57

59:57

The Gullah Geechee Corridor spans multiple states throughout the southeastern U.S. and is comprised of a deep and rich history, culture, language and lifestyle. The Gullah Geechee people are the descendants of enslaved Africans who worked on rice, indigo and cotton plantations throughout the south. Being enslaved on plantations on remote coastal is…

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S5 Episode 2: Mob Cops 46:34

7M ago46:34

46:34

Two NYPD detectives sworn to uphold the law—yet deeply entangled in the world of organized crime. Journalist and acclaimed author Michael Cannell is back with us to discuss his gripping new book, Blood and the Badge: The Mafia, Two Killer Cops, and a Scandal That Shocked the Nation. Michael uncovers the shocking true story of two NYPD officers who …

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S5 Episode 1: Weekend Adventures with Emma 40:01

8M ago40:01

40:01

Imagine setting foot in a place you've never been, meeting people from all walks of life, and facing challenges that push you beyond your limits—only to discover the incredible impact travel has on one's life. We're joined by Emma Wong-Stephens, an avid traveler and blogger who has turned her passion for exploring the world into a platform for stor…

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S4 Episode 27: Genetic Disorders Decoded 51:21

8M ago51:21

51:21

Genetic disorders can be a mystery to many, but for those living with them, they’re a daily reality. In this episode, we talk to Melissa, who shares her life with Senior-Løken Syndrome — a rare condition that affects her vision and kidney function. Melissa opens up about her experiences, challenges, and triumphs as she navigates a world not designe…

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Minisode 8 - Deeper Into the Nightmare 37:28

9M ago37:28

37:28

This mini episode includes even more sleep paralysis stories. Some of these stories are more stories from the guests featured in episode 26 and some are brand new!By Bound by the Cloak

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S4 Episode 26: Welcome to the Nightmare 56:45

9M ago56:45

56:45

Sleep paralysis is a condition that blurs the lines between dreams and waking life, leaving those who experience it frozen in fear. In this episode, we delve into the eerie and fascinating world of sleep paralysis by talking to individuals who’ve faced this mysterious phenomenon. Our featured guest, Ranita Roy, shares her vivid and haunting experie…

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S4 Episode 25: Cultural Variations in Psychosomatic Disorders 59:56

9M ago59:56

59:56

Have you ever wondered why certain illnesses only seem to appear in specific cultures? How do cultural beliefs shape our experience of health and illness? In this episode, we explore the world of culture-bound syndromes with medical anthropologist, Peter Guarnaccia. These intriguing, culturally specific disorders—such as susto, koro, and ataque de …

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S4 Episode 24: DONNAVILLE 48:46

10M ago48:46

48:46

Step into the surreal and fiercely imaginative world of DONNAVILLE, the latest novel by award-winning writer Donna Minkowitz. In this episode, Donna uncovers the layers of her unique, genre-defying book—a world where personal history, fantasy, and feminist themes converge. Donna is a writer of fantasy, memoir, and journalism lauded by Lilith Magazi…

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S4 Episode 23: All Hallows' Eve with Lisa Morton 58:13

10M ago58:13

58:13

Ever wondered how Halloween evolved from its ancient origins to the costume-filled celebration we know today? In this Halloween special, we sat down with the incredible Lisa Morton, author, historian, and one of the world’s leading experts on Halloween. From ancient Celtic traditions to the modern-day thrill of haunted houses and costumes, Lisa tak…

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S4 Episode 22: The Tragic Story of Lita McClinton 42:45

10M ago42:45

42:45

What happens when love turns deadly in the shadow of race and privilege? In this episode, we unravel a true crime that shook the foundations of Georgia's high society. Deb Miller Landau, joins us to discuss the tragic and harrowing murder of Lita McClinton. Lita, a young woman from Atlanta, became the victim of a calculated murder-for-hire scheme l…

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Minisode 7: Field of Screams 33:30

10M ago33:30

33:30

Field of Screams is one of America's best haunted attractions, and it's been striking fear into and scaring the souls out of the souls of the thousands of guests that show up year after year. Started by brothers Gene and Jim Schopf back in 1993, it's transformed from just a haunted hayride into so much more with three haunted houses and escape room…

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S4 Episode 21: A View From the Front Desk 43:16

11M ago43:16

43:16

In this episode, we explore the unique experience of growing up in a motel as a family business, where the line between home and work blurs in the most fascinating ways. Our guest, Foram Mehta, reflects on her childhood spent amidst the hustle and bustle of transient guests, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of motel life. She share…

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S4 Episode 20: The Hills Have Crimes 1:01:03

11M ago1:01:03

1:01:03

Crime, scandal and intrigue in Beverly Hills. From high-profile heists to shocking murders, we uncover the hidden, dark side of 90210, some of which has long been forgotten. We sat down with renowned entertainment journalist and author Scott Huver to explore the dark underbelly of one of America's most glamorous zip codes — Beverly Hills. Scott tak…

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S4 Episode 19: Bouncing Back-James Donaldson's Mental Health Journey 48:43

12M ago48:43

48:43

In this powerful episode, we sit down with James Donaldson, former NBA star and mental health advocate, to discuss his deeply personal journey through the highs of professional basketball and the lows of battling severe depression and suicidal ideation. James opens up about the mental health crisis that nearly ended his life, sharing the pivotal mo…

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S4 Episode 18: Take the Money and Run 48:38

1y ago48:38

48:38

In this gripping episode, we sit down with Ashley Randele, daughter of Thomas Randele, to uncover the incredible story of her father's secret life. For decades, Thomas Randele lived a seemingly ordinary life as a loving husband and father, until the shocking revelation that he had been living under an alias, hiding a past no one could have imagined…

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S4 Episode 17: Did You Say You're From Molossia? 32:53

1y ago32:53

32:53

Nestled in the Nevada desert, the Republic of Molossia is a self-proclaimed sovereign nation with its own traditions, customs, and even a currency! Join us as we explore what it takes to create and govern a micronation, the quirks and challenges of running a country within a country, and the whimsical yet thought-provoking philosophy behind Molossi…

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S4 Episode 16: Power & Respect 1:13:28

1y ago1:13:28

1:13:28

With renowned investigative journalist Gus Garcia-Roberts we explore the deep-seated corruption that plagued Long Island's law enforcement, detailed in his book, "Jimmy the King: Murder, Vice, and the Reign of a Dirty Cop." Gus takes us behind the scenes of one of the most shocking tales of police corruption in recent history, centering on James Bu…

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S4 Episode 15: The Long Haul with Salena Lettera 46:38

1y ago46:38

46:38

In this episode we hit the open road with Salena Lettera, a trailblazing truck driver who’s been navigating the highways and byways of the trucking industry for years. Salena shares her unique journey, what inspired her to get behind the wheel, the evolving landscape of trucking, the importance of community and support within the industry, and her …

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S4 Episode 14: Murder On A Moonless Night 1:01:00

1y ago1:01:00

1:01:00

On a seemingly ordinary night in October of 1943, the tranquility of a small Texas town was shattered by a brutal crime that left two survivors in its wake and a community in shock. Christena Stephens details the murder of Roy and Mae Hunt in her book, Bound in Silence: An Unsolved Murder in a Small Texas Town. Despite extensive investigations, the…

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S4 Episode 13: Persons of Interest - Murder in Waltham 51:31

1y ago51:31

51:31

Investigative journalist Susan Zalkind unravels the chilling details behind the notorious triple homicide that occurred in September of 2011 in her hometown of Waltham, Massachusetts. This quiet town was overshadowed by an unthinkable crime, but captivates us is Susan Zalkind's uncanny ability to unveil the intricate threads weaving together the mu…

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S3 Episode 12: The Making of True Crime with Josh Zeman 47:55

1y ago47:55

47:55

We sit down with acclaimed filmmaker Josh Zeman to delve into the shadowy world of true crime and unsolved mysteries. Known for his work on groundbreaking documentaries like "Cropsey," “Murder Mountain,” Killer Legends,” The Sons of Sam” and "The Killing Season," Zeman shares behind-the-scenes stories and insights from his career. We discuss the ch…

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S4 Episode 11: Lost and Found 1:05:39

1+ y ago1:05:39

1:05:39

Pushed to the limits of endurance, navigating treacherous terrain, and facing the stark reality of survival against nature describes Kaden Laga's arduous five-day journey in the Montana wilderness. We spoke with Kaden, who shares his firsthand account of being lost in the unforgiving wilderness, experiencing uncertainty, and his unwavering determin…

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S4 Episode 10: The Complexity of Aggression 1:07:03

1+ y ago1:07:03

1:07:03

Psychologically, how do we deal with potentially violent threats or harmful behaviors? When all of the standard and typical treatments and resources fail to prevent these potentially harmful behaviors, what can be done to prevent them from being carried out? Whether it’s domestic violence, incidents of stalking, violent physical threats, public att…

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S4 Episode 9: The Grand Game - Ted Slauson and the Perfect Bid 57:45

1+ y ago57:45

57:45

Whether you're a die-hard fan of "The Price is Right" or simply intrigued by the inner workings of game shows, in this episode we dive into the world of TV's longest running show, with its superfan - Ted Slauson. Ted was a fan of the Bob Barker version of The Price Is Right starting back in 1973, and started attending tapings when he was 18 years o…

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S4 Episode 8: The Clinical Science Behind Pedophilia 54:25

1+ y ago54:25

54:25

Dr. James Cantor is a psychologist and a leading researcher whose areas of work have focused on sex research. He has spent over 25 years researching various paraphilias, the most notable one being pedophilia. It's a difficult subject to discuss and tackle, but it's one that needs to be addressed socially. We wanted to know exactly what a pedophile …

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S4 Episode 7: The History of Policing 57:13

1+ y ago57:13

57:13

While discussions about policing often center on present-day controversies, understanding its historical evolution is essential to understand how we got here today. Dr. Gary Potter unravels a timeline of the complexities of policing, shedding light on pivotal moments, ideologies, and societal influences that have shaped its trajectory. From the est…

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S4 Episode 6: Freedom of Choice 1:01:00

1+ y ago1:01:00

1:01:00

Should personal choices made outside the workplace be a factor in one's professional work? Can society draw a line between personal freedom and professional accountability? Sarah Juree's life took an unexpected turn when her side hustle collided with her professional career as a teacher. Her story made headlines when she was fired from her teaching…

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S4 Episode 5: Truth Will Out 56:26

1+ y ago56:26

56:26

At just 17 years old, Jeff Deskovic's life took an unexpected turn when he found himself wrongfully convicted of the rape and murder of his classmate. Despite maintaining his innocence, he spent over 16 years behind bars, enduring the unimaginable hardships of prison life. We spoke to Jeff and uncovered the shocking details of his wrongful convicti…

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S4 Episode 4: Plotting the Course 1:02:55

1+ y ago1:02:55

1:02:55

As we celebrate Black History Month and honor the trailblazers who shaped our world, we explore the remarkable life and groundbreaking achievements of Dr. Gladys West, a trailblazing mathematician whose contributions paved the way for modern GPS technology. We spoke to Dr. West’s daughter, Carolyn Oglesby, who continues to educate the public about …

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S4 Episode 3: Reimagining Policing with David Couper 45:21

1+ y ago45:21

45:21

Against the backdrop of ongoing debates surrounding police accountability, racial justice, and community trust, it’s more important than ever to address the uncomfortable truths surrounding police brutality, shining a spotlight on the systemic issues that continue to perpetuate violence and injustice within our communities. We sat down with David C…

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S4 Episode 2: NYC's Mad Bomber 53:01

1+ y ago53:01

53:01

Not many know about the Mad Bomber and his trail of terror across New York City in the 1940’s and 50’s. The uncertainty and fear that gripped the city had New Yorkers bracing themselves for the possibility of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Many are also unaware of Dr. James A. Brussel, the father of modern criminal profiling and his ro…

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S4 Episode 1: Confined - The Stanford Prison Experiment 1:04:58

1+ y ago1:04:58

1:04:58

Join us as we step behind the scenes of one of the most infamous social experiments in history - the Stanford Prison Experiment. We spoke with Rich Yacco, who recounted his experiences as a "prisoner" in the simulated prison environment, shedding light on the blurred lines between authority, abuse, and conformity. In this episode we provide a glimp…

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S3 Episode 15: American Truth and Identity 1:07:56

1+ y ago1:07:56

1:07:56

In this eye-opening episode, we spoke with historian Donald Yacovone to unravel the layers of history taught in American schools. In a candid and thought-provoking conversation, Donald takes us on a journey through time, exposing the untold stories, overlooked perspectives, and hidden chapters that have shaped our nation. Donald Yacovone is an Asso…

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S3 Episode 14: Birth Order and Personality 1:03:07

1+ y ago1:03:07

1:03:07

Where are you in the sibling order - first, middle, last? Regardless of the order, everyone's been curious about the profound impact birth order has on who we are and who we become. After all, in the grand saga of family, every sibling plays a crucial role. In this episode, we go beyond the conventional wisdom, delving into groundbreaking research …

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S3 Episode 13: Safe Keeping 1:06:00

2y ago1:06:00

1:06:00

Description: Recently, big banks like Chase, HSBC and Capital One have started to pull back from safe deposit box services and aren’t offering them for new customers. So, where should you store your valuables? Dave McGuinn has been keeping banks and the valuables that reside within them safe for over 50 years. He is the industry expert when it come…

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S3 Episode 12: Surviving the Shadows 55:45

2y ago55:45

55:45

Having faced the harrowing experience of losing a loved one to homicide, Dr. Jan Canty opens up about her personal journey of survival, healing, and transformation. Through her inspiring narrative, she offers profound insights into the human spirit's ability to overcome even the darkest of moments. We spoke with Jan, discussing the challenges she f…

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S3 Episode 11: Haunted Manhattan (Halloween Special) 55:15

2y ago55:15

55:15

It's time for our annual Halloween special, and this year we had a chance to hang out with Robery Gonyo of Haunted Manhattan! Haunted Manhattan has been providing NYC with it's own brand of haunted history for over 10 years. NYC is a unique place around Halloween and many embark on one of the city's many haunted walking tours. Robert told us all ab…

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S3 Episode 10: After School Satan Club 1:01:36

2y ago1:01:36

1:01:36

The After School Satan Club, with its provocative name, is in the hot seat these days. Now, before you conjure images of devilish gatherings and dark rituals, the After School Satan Club is not about worshiping the dark Lord. Rather, it's about enlightening young minds, promoting critical thinking, and exploring alternative perspectives. We're here…