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Gertrude Baniszewski: The "Torture Mom" episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 24, 2025 · 48 MIN

Gertrude Baniszewski: The "Torture Mom"

from Killer Psyche

Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong explores the chilling case of Gertrude Baniszewski. In the fall of 1965, behind the walls of her modest Indiana home, Gertrude masterminded the systematic torture and murder of teenage Sylvia Likens – encouraging her own children and neighborhood kids to join in the abuse. Candice investigates how Gertrude’s simmering resentment and deep-seated rage transformed her into the mastermind behind one of the most disturbing group crimes ever committed, and how the unthinkable violence against Sylvia went unchecked.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What this episode covers

Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong explores the chilling case of Gertrude Baniszewski. In the fall of 1965, behind the walls of her modest Indiana home, Gertrude masterminded the systematic torture and murder of teenage Sylvia Likens – encouraging her own children and neighborhood kids to join in the abuse. Candice investigates how Gertrude’s simmering resentment and deep-seated rage transformed her into the mastermind behind one of the most disturbing group crimes ever committed, and how the unthinkable violence against Sylvia went unchecked. Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter Need more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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Gertrude Baniszewski: The "Torture Mom"

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Killer Psyche?

This episode is 48 minutes long.

When was this Killer Psyche episode published?

This episode was published on June 24, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong explores the chilling case of Gertrude Baniszewski. In the fall of 1965, behind the walls of her modest Indiana home, Gertrude masterminded the systematic torture and murder of teenage Sylvia...

Can I download this Killer Psyche episode?

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