Best James Halcomb Podcasts (2025)

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The ColdPlay Couple and Why We Cheat: Understanding Infidelity and Intimacy with Esther Perel’s Wisdom 45:28

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6h ago45:28

45:28

Who among us hasn't been caught snuggling an affair partner in the kiss cam at a rock concert and gone mega-viral? Oh...none of us, that's right. But why do people cheat? And can a relationship recover? Moving beyond simplistic explanations, we consult Esther Perel's transformative insights into why people cheat, often revealing a longing not just …

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Axing the important questions: Two local mini cases 20:41

2d ago20:41

20:41

In this episode, Nat and Jeannine give a quick look at two developing cases a little too close to home: a man who tried to commit a legit axe murder in a parking lot near the office, and a body that was found on the side of the highway. We talk a little bit about the demographics of DV, prevention and self-preservation, and why you gotta look out f…

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Active Shooter Alert at the Conference: the Breckenridge Shooting of Jordan Labarre 26:41

7d ago26:41

26:41

Shortly before and less than 5 miles away from the largest annual gathering of domestic violence providers in Colorado, an offender was arrested and charged with multiple violent offenses and then released on bail. Then, while the conference was ramping up, Nat and Jeannine (along with all the other early attendees) got a cell phone alert to lock d…

1
Midweek Mini: DVOMB Conference Special 12:53

9d ago12:53

12:53

Y'all...we are so tired! We're back from our annual conference with brains full and voices shot. We just want to shout out some of our wonderful friends and fans we met in the mountains and let you know we appreciate all our listeners. We're keeping it brief this week to let our voices (and out producer) rest, but we love our Forensic Friends! Supp…

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The Mind of a Mass Shooter: James Holmes and the Aurora Theater Shooting 56:04

14d ago56:04

56:04

In this episode, we discuss the July 20th, 2012 mass shooting at the midnight premier of the Dark Knight Rises in Aurora, Colorado. We talk about the events that took place and the heroic actions of law enforcement in the immediate aftermath. We dissect the deep psychological issues that plagued Holmes throughout his life and discuss his mindset in…

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Run Run Run: Even More Dating Red Flags 36:18

16d ago36:18

36:18

Back by request, we bring you more of our hand-picked, ripest, reddest flags. Who is paying for dates? Who's criticizing whom? And bro, why is your ex calling me rn? Listen in and sound off in the comments and DMs about your own list of dating red flags Support the show Disclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced informati…

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From Falling Rocks to First Degree Murder: the Arvada Rock-Throwing Case 46:54

21d ago46:54

46:54

How does a seemingly reckless act by teenagers escalate to murder? We dive into the Joseph Koenig case, where a night of throwing rocks tragically ended a life. This episode unpacks the psychological factors behind such actions, including the unique challenges of juvenile impulsivity and the powerful, often unseen, force of peer dynamics that can l…

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The Kids are NOT Alright: the Effects of High-Conflict Households on Children 37:50

23d ago37:50

37:50

In this episode we talk about the effects of DV and high-conflict relationships on kids in the house. Yes, they hear it. Yes they notice. Yes it affects them. No, being on the ipad doesn't protect their brain from the stress. Listen in for a breakdown of some statistics, some brain physiology, and a whole lot of experience from Nat and Jeannine. An…

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Court Orders & Consequences: The Lindsey Shiver Case 37:05

28d ago37:05

37:05

This episode we turn our focus to the ongoing Lindsey Shiver case, using it as a lens to explore the critical issues surrounding high-conflict divorce, the welfare of children, and adherence to legal mandates. We investigate the dynamics of the Shivers' separation, discussing the failures in co-parenting that often accompany such disputes. A signif…

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BRAVING Trust: How to Build & Evaluate Connections 48:21

1M ago48:21

48:21

Ever wished you had a roadmap for trust? This mini-episode introduces you to just that: Brené Brown's transformative BRAVING framework for the Anatomy of Trust. Discover how setting Boundaries, demonstrating Reliability, practicing Accountability, holding a Vault, showing Integrity, offering Non-judgment, and extending Generosity are key to both ea…

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The Ex-Files: Michelle Hadley and the Craigslist Plot 57:58

1M ago57:58

57:58

Catch a quick update on the Karen Read verdict before we plunge into a true crime story almost too wild to believe: the case of Michelle Hadley. Imagine being falsely accused, jailed, and facing life in prison for horrific crimes you didn't commit, all at the hands of your ex-partner and his new spouse. This episode uncovers the intricate and twist…

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“Ginny and Georgia”: Antisocial Females and Intergenerational Patterns 1:06:08

1M ago1:06:08

1:06:08

Caution: spoilers ahead! In this episode, we talk about the Netflix series Ginny and Georgia and discuss what the writers absolutely nailed about the characters' personalities (and personality disorders, maybe?) and the real world consequences we've seen in kids who grow up in emotional turmoil and traumatic, criminogenic, and antisocial households…

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The Cleveland House of Horror: Surviving Ariel Castro 1:03:23

1M ago1:03:23

1:03:23

Join us as we recount the chilling story of Ariel Castro, the Cleveland man who abducted and held three young women captive for years. This episode walks through the disturbing timeline of how Michelle Knight, Amanda Berry, and Gina DeJesus disappeared, their agonizing decade in captivity, and the complex investigation that eventually led to the ch…

1
Sneaky Dating Red Flags: Domestic Violence Counselors' Signs to RUN AWAY 35:54

1M ago35:54

35:54

When it comes to a relationship, there's a fine line between quirk Rom-Com persistence and being on the wrong end of a Lifetime thriller. In this episode, Nat and Jeannine share their list of the top red flags you might miss in that pink relationship cloud. From cyberstalking to early codependency to the underhanded leaving-my-earring-behind, we he…

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The Gone Girl who Won't Stay Gone: the Return of Sherri Papini 1:22:18

2M ago1:22:18

1:22:18

In this follow up episode, we talk about Sherri Papini's not-so-glorious return to the spotlight. We dissect the latest documentary and try to suss out what part of her latest story is truth or fiction (or somewhere in between). We also give our thoughts on things like histrionic personality disorder, childhood trauma and attention seeking, and how…

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Who is in the Driver's Seat? Internal and External Locus of Control 36:41

2M ago36:41

36:41

Do you believe you're the architect of your own success, or a pawn in a game of chance? This quick dive into locus of control will help you figure it out! We explain the core tenets of internal locus of control – where your efforts drive outcomes – versus external locus of control, where luck, destiny, or other people call the shots. Discover how i…

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Hateful Loner to Patron Saint of Incels: The Elliot Rodger Spree Killings 51:12

2M ago51:12

51:12

How did one individual's hatred and sense of entitlement spark a dangerous movement? In this episode, we explore Elliot Rodger's profound influence on violent incel culture. We break down the elements of his worldview, including his distorted locus of control, and his acts of violence that resonate within these communities, leading to his 'saint'-l…

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Entitled to Sex: Incel Culture and Extreme Violence 48:15

2M ago48:15

48:15

Ahead of this Friday's episode, here's an introductory episode designed to clarify the often-mystifying world of incels and the redpill movement. We define essential terms, from the symbolic 'red pill' to the archetypes of 'Chad' and 'Stacy,' explaining the foundational beliefs that fuel these online groups. This episode is crucial listening to und…

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"Cool Mom" Silvia Ann Johnson: Sex, Drugs, and Double Standards 1:09:35

2M ago1:09:35

1:09:35

In this episode, we talk about the case of the so-called "cool mom", Silvia Ann Johnson, who engaged in drug fueled sex with her high- school- aged kids' friends, ultimately ending some lives and destroying others. We talk about the underlying psychology of what kind of person does something like this, the criminogenic needs that do and don't feed …

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The Real Red Ranger and the Roommate Run-In: Ricardo Medina Jr and the Samurai Sword 57:39

2M ago57:39

57:39

Now it's Jeannine's turn to tell us about a Power Ranger murder, this time with 100% more actual ranger. A story of power and control, ambiguous self defense stories, and the dangers of getting in the middle of a bad relationship. Nat and Jeannine discuss Ricardo Medina Jr's actions and mindset, and share a little about the potential pitfalls of ba…

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Midweek Mini: What is Your Therapist REALLY Thinking? 26:05

2M ago26:05

26:05

Have you ever wondered what your therapist thinks of you? Or what's going through their mind when they're sitting with you? And how do they sit with all these people with all these different emotions all day? In this episode, Nat and Jeannine tell all, giving you a little insight into what your therapist might have going on behind the scenes. Suppo…

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The Hawks, the Yacht, and the Powerless Non-Ranger: the Life and Crimes of Skylar Deleon 1:17:21

3M ago1:17:21

1:17:21

In this episode, we talk about a murder perpetrated by a former power rangers actor... but not that one! Skylar Deleon is a former child actor turned career criminal who built a cadre of inmates, guards, and a baby mama to try to scam and murder their way to wealth at the expense of a very nice retired couple. We discuss the convoluted crime, the s…

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Hawaiian Husband Horror: What We Know About the Gerhardt Konig Case 25:42

3M ago25:42

25:42

Another (Allegedly) Awful Husband, a much nicer cliff! In this midweek mini, we discuss what we know so far about the Gerhardt Konig case. We talk about the facts of what likely happened, detail the allegations of power and control and abuse, and compare this case with some of our past (least) favorite forced cliff diving coaches (ew, Steve!). Be s…

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Unpacking Natalia Grace: Parenting Failures, Reactive Attachment, and How NOT to Handle Adoption 1:28:26

3M ago1:28:26

1:28:26

The narrative surrounding Natalia Grace is filled with confusion and conflicting accounts. In this episode, we dissect the timeline and dig into the truth surrounding her age, while also holding her adoptive parents accountable for their deeply troubling behavior. We discuss the potential psychological factors influencing the parents, such as histr…

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'Adolescence' on Netflix: What It Gets Right (and What Scares Us) 1:22:06

3M ago1:22:06

1:22:06

'Adolescence' on Netflix offers a chilling portrayal of youth violence. This week, Nat and Jeannine, along with our husbands, unpack the series (spoilersahead!). We discuss its psychological realism, particularly the unpredictable nature of young offenders and the complexities of pre-trial evaluations. The conversation then shifts to the challenges…

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Columbine Part 2: The “Failure” That Changed Everything 1:26:21

3M ago1:26:21

1:26:21

In the concluding part of our Columbine series, we examine the horrific events of April 20th, the elements of Harris and Klebold's plan that failed, and the devastating consequences. As Colorado natives, this episode is especially poignant. We then shift our focus to prevention, discussing the critical importance of teaching empathy early, the nece…

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Midweek Mini: The Psychology Behind Criminal Pairings 28:30

3M ago28:30

28:30

In this episode, we go deeper into the dynamics and typologies of paired criminals, psycho duos, and kill teams. Are both partners usually psychopaths? What does folie a deux mean? And how do these definitions apply to famous true crime cases and in a treatment context? Listen in and find out! Support the show Disclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are c…

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Columbine: The Making of a School Shooter 1:11:18

3M ago1:11:18

1:11:18

Marking the anniversary of a day that forever changed Colorado and the nation, we begin our two-part series on the events leading up to the Columbine High School shooting. Part 1 dissects the early warning signs and the disturbing dynamic between Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. We examine Harris' potential psychopathy and his role in grooming Klebol…

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Happy Anniversary Forensic Friends! 30:02

3M ago30:02

30:02

Wow! It's been a year since our first episode dropped, and we couldn't have hoped for a more fun year thanks to our Forensic Friends! Tune in to hear about our favorite moments and guests, our shoutouts, and our plans for the next exciting year! Support the show Disclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any …

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A Little Unhinged: Bloopers and Outtakes Volume 3 3:12

3M ago3:12

3:12

As a thank you gift for hanging in there with us for a whole year, please enjoy another round of auditory wtf, courtesy of producer G! Support the show Disclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. T…

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Mannequins and Murder: The Fox Hollow Killer(s) 1:10:44

4M ago1:10:44

1:10:44

In this episode, we examine the horrific Fox Hollow murders, highlighting how serial killers often prey on vulnerable populations, in this case, those within the 1980s Midwest gay club scene. We discuss the gruesome scene uncovered at Fox Hollow Farms and detail the critical failures of local police that allowed the primary suspect to escape, leadi…

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Midweek Mini: All About Serial Killers 40:30

4M ago40:30

40:30

In this week's mini episode, join us as we discuss every true crime fan's favorite topic: serial killers! Where do most of them operate? Who are they? And why oh why do they do what they do? Support the show Disclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in t…

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The Vallow Daybell Case: From Prophecy to Catastrophe 1:11:43

4M ago1:11:43

1:11:43

From seemingly devout believers to family annihilation, the Lori Vallow Daybell story is a chilling tale of fanaticism and destruction. We trace the timeline of their descent into doomsday cult behavior, the tragic deaths of Lori's children, and the disturbing actions of the couple after the murders. We also discuss why doomsday predictions that do…

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Armie Hammer Update: Can People Really Change? 39:49

4M ago39:49

39:49

Hi Forensic Friends! In today's episode we discuss the latest media and podcast antics of everyone's (least) favorite butthead, Armie Hammer. What's he saying? Has he really changed? Has he done the work? And even if he has, do we really want to hear from him ever again? Also, a quick update on the Karen Read case Support the show Disclaimer: Jeann…

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The Blizzard, the Boyfriend, and the Broken Taillight: The Karen Read Case 1:11:22

4M ago1:11:22

1:11:22

The story of Karen Read and the death of John O’Keefe is captivating the nation. Our episode focuses on what we do best, intimate partner violence including their interactions leading up to his death, analysis of the trial and approaches by opposing counsel, and ultimately how the media circus makes it unlikely John O’Keefe’s killer will be brought…

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Moscow Mayhem Mini Update and April Sneak Peek 35:33

4M ago35:33

35:33

Join us for a quick but important update on the Moscow, Idaho murders. We analyze the recently revealed text messages from the surviving roommates, offering new insights into that harrowing night. Plus, we touch on the death penalty discussion and give you a sneak peek at the intriguing cases you can expect in April. Support the show Disclaimer: Je…

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When Ruby Met Jodi: a Dark Partnership, Spiritual Grooming, and the Fall of Ruby Franke (The 8 Passengers Scandal pt2) 1:38:03

4M ago1:38:03

1:38:03

The seemingly perfect online image of the 8 Passengers family crumbled as the truth emerged. In Part 2, we uncover the full extent of the manipulation and control exerted by Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt. We examine the devastating impact on the family, a father's failure to step up or step in, and the bravery of the children who fought so hard …

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Johari Window: A Framework for Self-Awareness and Success 23:19

4M ago23:19

23:19

Have you ever noticed that some people can navigate feedback better or are more open than others? Self-awareness, vulnerability, and connection are important facets of a successful life. Learn more about Johari Window in this educational episode! Support the show Disclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any…

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No Good Very Bad Mom-Ruby Franke and the 8 Passengers Scandal (Part 1) 52:06

4M ago52:06

52:06

This is the kind of parenting that gives therapists like us job security for life. Part 1 of our Ruby Franke investigation takes us behind the scenes of her seemingly perfect online persona. We explore the early dynamics of her relationship, the reported signs of narcissism, and the subtle cues that hinted at deeper problems within the family. We a…

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Hands Off, Hearts On: Ditching Corporal Punishment for Healthy Parenting 40:29

5M ago40:29

40:29

Is spanking really the answer? This week, we dive deep into the research debunking the effectiveness of corporal punishment, exploring why it not only falls short but actively harms children. We unpack the troubling link between physical discipline and intergenerational violence, revealing how these practices can perpetuate cycles of trauma and pai…

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Pom Poms & Payoffs: The Dark Descent of Wanda Holloway 49:45

5M ago49:45

49:45

In the quiet suburbs of Channelview, Texas, a shocking plot unfolded beneath the bright lights of Friday night football. Wanda Holloway, a seemingly devoted mother and cheerleader booster, became infamous for attempting to hire a hitman to eliminate the mother of her daughter's rival. But what drove a woman to such extreme measures? This week, we d…

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Midweek Mini Hubbisode - The 5 Love Languages 24:00

5M ago24:00

24:00

Welcome back forensic friends! In today's mini episode, we welcome back our special guests: the handy, helpful, handsome husbands! Listen in as we discuss the love languages and how they show up, our own styles, and debate the scientific validity vs usefulness of the framework. Support the show Disclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on p…

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If the Space Diaper Fits: The Orbital Obsession of Lisa Nowak 1:21:06

5M ago1:21:06

1:21:06

In 2007, the world watched in disbelief as the meticulously crafted image of an American hero shattered. NASA astronaut Lisa Nowak, a mission specialist with a seemingly perfect life, became the central figure in a bizarre and disturbing tale of obsessive love and cross-country pursuit. This week, we delve into the shocking details of Nowak's journ…

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And That, My Friends, Is Closure 1:11:09

5M ago1:11:09

1:11:09

This one is personal, hilarious, and heartbreaking! Ever longed for that magic moment when you get the final say after being hurt? Ever thought over and over about what you might say? Ever cried over not being able to do or say something before you lost someone? With personal examples from their lives, Nat and Jeannine discuss why we think we need …

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The Unbreakable Jennifer Schuett 42:24

5M ago42:24

42:24

In this episode, we tell the incredible story of Jennifer Schuett, who at just eight years old, endured a horrific abduction and assault. Against all odds, she survived. We explore her remarkable resilience, the investigation that eventually led to justice, and how Jennifer's story became a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Support the…

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The Blake Lively Blowback: Chaos, Control, and So Many Questions 39:10

5M ago39:10

39:10

In this episode we dive into the complex legal battle between Hollywood stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. We explore the initial allegations of sexual harassment made by Lively, Baldoni's denial and countersuit, and the involvement of Ryan Reynolds. We also analyze the legal aspects of the case, the media and public reaction, and the potential…

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The Au Pair, the Affair, and the Fatal Shooting: The Case of Juliana Peres Magalhaes 53:12

5M ago53:12

53:12

In February 2023, a quiet suburban home in Herndon, Virginia, became the scene of a shocking crime. Juliana Peres Magalhaes, the family's au pair, was accused of shooting and killing 39-year-old Joseph Ryan. What began as a seemingly ordinary case of a love triangle gone wrong soon spiraled into a complex web of accusations, betrayals, and a tangle…

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A Desperate Act: The Tragic Tale of Brian Brown-Easley 58:23

6M ago58:23

58:23

In this episode, we dive into the complex case of Brian Brown-Easley, a decorated Marine veteran who, in 2017, walked into a Wells Fargo bank in Marietta, Georgia, and claimed to have a bomb. We explore the psychological factors that may have driven Brown-Easley to such extremes, examining the impact of PTSD, the challenges veterans face in accessi…

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Building a Love That Lasts: Exploring the Gottman Sound Relationship House 45:31

6M ago45:31

45:31

Ever wonder what makes some relationships thrive while others crumble? This week, we dive deep into the Gottman Institute's renowned Sound Relationship House, a framework for building and maintaining strong, healthy partnerships. We'll explore each of the seven levels, from building love maps and fostering fondness and admiration, to navigating con…

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Unraveling the Psyche of the Infamous Night Stalker 1:26:59

6M ago1:26:59

1:26:59

Richard Ramirez, the Night Stalker, embodies the complexities of fear and fascination surrounding serial killers. Through discussions about his disturbing background, the psychological impacts of his upbringing, and the chilling nature of his crimes, we explore the darker aspects of humanity, leaving listeners to reflect on personal safety and the …