Curious Cousins OK Podcast

Welcome back, cousins, to Season 5 of your favorite Kooky and Spooky podcast, about your favorite state, Oklahoma! This season, Jess starts us off with a little state fair history…From deep-fried treats and livestock shows to the roar of the midway, state fairs represent classic autumn nostalgia. But behind the neon lights of the 1987 Oklahoma State Fair lurked a nightmare that would leave two native sisters dead and trigger a decades-long battle for justice against institutional corruption.In this episode, Jess takes a look back at the history of Oklahoma’s iconic fair traditions before diving into one of the state's most frustrating cold cases: the September 1987 disappearances of Cheryl Genzer (25) and Lisa Pennington (16). After leaving the fairgrounds with two men, the sisters vanished. A month later, their remains were exhumed from a shallow grave in northwest Oklahoma City—both dead from headshots fired by two completely different caliber weapons.Who did it? Will we ever know? And could new legislation blow this, and many more, cold cases wide open? Listen now! Sources:KOCO - NEWS 5Oklahoma Cold Cases - Lisa PenningtonOklahoma Cold Cases - Cheryl Genzer FOX 25 NewsOklahoma State SenateOHS The Oklahoman

🎙️ Ep 179: Lawton Dogman (Season 4 Finale)📌 Episode OverviewIn the Season 4 finale, Tiff dives deep into one of the Sooner State’s most famous and unsettling urban legends: The 1971 Lawton Dogman. What began as a series of strange sightings in Southwestern Oklahoma quickly escalated into city-wide panic, emergency police calls, and hospitalizations.The episode traces the deep roots of werewolf lore—from ancient Greek writings and medieval European witch trials to Turkic shamanic traditions—before dissecting Oklahoma's own bizarre history of upright canine encounters. Tiff also explores broader state hotspots (including the Kiamichi Mountains, Lake Thunderbird, and the Red River Valley) and contrast modern "cryptid" hunters with traditional Indigenous perspectives on shapeshifters, dark medicine, and the legend of Deer Woman.🏷️ Episode CreditsWritten & Produced by: Jess Burnett & Tiff MurrayEditing: Jess BurnettSocial Media: Tiff MurrayTheme Music: "It Comes to This" by MomentsCover Art: Jess Burnett & Tiff MurrayCatch up on past episodes now! "Curious Cousin OK" will return with Season 5 this September.Sources:Z94Paranormal World WikiThe OklahomanVeil of Fear on TikTokStrange State: Mysteries and Legends of OklahomaHaunted Oklahoma by Jeff ProvineWikipedia2. The 1971 Lawton Panic3. Oklahoma Cryptid Hotspots4. Cryptids vs. Indigenous Traditions

Ep 178: The Bombing of Boise CityIn July 1943, World War II was raging across the globe, patriotic fervor was at an all-time high, and Americans were doing everything they could to support the war effort. But for the small, sleepy agricultural town of Boise City, Oklahoma, the war hit a little too close to home—literally.In this episode, Jess explores the bizarre, true story of how a rogue U.S. Army Air Corps B-17 bomber got hopelessly lost during a nighttime training run, mistook the lights of the Cimarron County Courthouse for its practice target, and launched a 30-minute aerial blitz on an unsuspecting American town. From a heroic power plant operator who saved the day by killing the lights, to a missing bomb hidden in a barn for over 70 years, to the flight crew’s journey from catastrophic blunder to decorated wartime heroes, this is one of the most unbelievable chapters in Oklahoma history…and certainly doesn’t skimp on the kooky and spooky!Sources:Cimarron Heritage CenterTime MagazineThe Saturday Evening PostAll That's InterestingOHSBoise City OK.org 

Episode 177: Daniel Furr (Part 2) — The Web of SilenceHow far would you go to find the truth when the system shuts its doors?In Part 1, Tiff traced the heartbreaking disappearance of 15-year-old Daniel Lee Furr from Ada, Oklahoma, in the summer of 1995, and the chaotic, deeply flawed recovery of a body at an abandoned brick quarry.Now, in Part 2, Tiff dives headfirst into the terrifying aftermath. As a grieving mother is met with a wall of institutional silence and bureaucratic excuses, a chilling web of rumors begins to spread among the local youth—whispering of a brutal ambush, dark secrets, and suspects shielded by local ties.We explore the shocking mismanagement of vital physical evidence, a stunning discovery hidden away in a courthouse basement, and a sister’s relentless, decades-long fight to step in where the law failed. What happens when the primary suspect takes his secrets to the grave? And can modern forensic technology finally bring answers to a family that has spent over thirty years searching for justice?Listener discretion is advised, as this episode contains discussions of violence and sensitive themes.Have information regarding the death of Daniel Lee Furr?Please contact the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) at 1-800-522-8017. There remains a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.Sources:Sins of the South: Three Oklahoma Cold Cases by Raven RollinsAllegedly: True Crime from Pontotoc County, OklahomaSirens: Southern True Crime PodcastOSBI Cold Case FilesFOX23 News TulsaThe Ada NewsCoffee and Cases Podcast

Episode 176: Daniel Furr (Part 1)The mid-1990s were a chaotic, historic era defined by massive headlines—from the tragedy of the OJ Simpson trial and the shock of the Oklahoma City bombing to the pop-culture frenzy of Windows 95 and the return of Michael Jordan. But in the small town of Ada, Oklahoma, a completely different, deeply convoluted nightmare was unfolding for one local family.In this episode, Tiff opens the file on the heartbreaking and baffling unsolved murder of 15-year-old Daniel Lee Furr. Daniel was a curious, animal-loving teenager known for his warmth and independent spirit, but his final year took a dark turn. After getting mixed up with a dangerous crowd and initiated into a local gang, Daniel found himself trapped in a world of fear, threats, and sudden disappearances.On July 11, 1995, Daniel's own Boy Scout troop made a gruesome discovery at the bottom of an abandoned, overgrown rock quarry outside of town: a severely decomposed body lying beneath their missing troop flag. What followed was a masterclass in bureaucratic confusion. From a crime scene littered with bizarre clues to forensic reports riddled with staggering medical contradictions—including mismatched hair lengths, wildly conflicting height and weight estimates, and a highly chaotic dental identification—a haunting question has kept his family fighting for decades: Was it actually Daniel in that pit?Join us as we scratch the surface of a case where local rumors intersect with systemic failure. As your favorite cousins always say, no cold case is truly that cold, and it only takes one small piece of information to blow a case wide open.Special Thanks & Resources: This episode heavily features research and insights from Raven Rollins. For a deeper dive into Daniel's story, we highly recommend checking out her work:Listen: The Sirens: Southern True Crime Podcast for in-depth interviews with Daniel’s mother, Gale, and sister, Chelsea.Read: Sins of the South: Three Oklahoma Cold Cases and Allegedly: True Crime from Pontotoc County, Oklahoma by Raven Rollins (available on Amazon).Community: Follow the Justice for Daniel Furr page on Facebook to support the family's ongoing fight for answers.Case Information: If you have any information regarding the disappearance and death of Daniel Lee Furr, please contact the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) at 1-800-522-8017, or submit a tip via the OSBI Cold Case Files. No detail is too small.Enjoyed the episode? Drop us a review, hit subscribe, and share this episode to help keep Daniel's memory alive and push for the justice he deserves. Stay tuned for Part 2!Sources:Sins of the South: Three Oklahoma Cold Cases by Raven RollinsAllegedly: True Crime from Pontotoc County, OklahomaSirens: Southern True Crime PodcastOSBI Cold Case FilesFOX23 News Tulsa

Ep 175: Medicine ParkPack your bags and grab your sage, because this week we are heading to Oklahoma’s very first planned resort town: Medicine Park. Nestled in the foothills of the Wichita Mountains, this unique oasis was built entirely from the ground up—literally—using the area’s distinct, naturally polished granite cobblestones. But beneath its picturesque, therapeutic exterior lies a wild history of Roaring Twenties vice, Depression-era gangsters, and a horde of restless spirits that never checked out. Join Jess as she describes: 🏔️ The Rise, Fall, and Renaissance of a Cobblestone Oasis🥩 The Old Plantation Restaurant: Steaks with a Side of Vice👻 The Spooks: Medicine Park’s Most Active HauntingsTurn the lights down, because the paranormal activity in Medicine Park runs the full gamut. As a historic epicenter for transient characters and illicit behavior, The Old Plantation Restaurant is now a playground for a "horde of spirits."Jess dives deep into the most frequent ghostly encounters!Plus, we look at the surrounding town's anomalies, from the self-moving items at the Branded Bear Shop to the Johnny Cash lookalike haunting the Blue-Eyed Coyote Guest House.So load up! The cold creek water will not be the only thing giving you the chills!!Sources:Haunted Oklahoma by Jeff ProvineTravelOKKSWO NewsThe 405 Magazine Z94.comUS ArmyThe Old Plantation Restaurant Medicine ParkOHS  

Ep 174: Keystone Lake — The Towns Beneath the WavesWhat if the place you called home was chosen to be wiped off the map?In Episode 174, Tiff dives deep into the murky waters of Keystone Lake, Oklahoma’s second-largest reservoir, to uncover a rich history of American exploration, Native American heritage, and 20th-century engineering that forever rewrote the local geography. Before it was a massive 23,000-acre playground for boaters, this rugged valley was known as the "Triangle Country"—a wilderness walked by the likes of Washington Irving and Thomas Nuttall.But in the late 1950s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers arrived with a $123 million plan to tame the Arkansas and Cimarron rivers. The cost of progress? The total submersion of entire communities.We explore the fascinating and heartbreaking stories of Oklahoma's "drowned towns":Keystone: The bustling railroad hub built at the "key" river confluence, now sitting completely underwater just north of the dam.Mannford & Prue: Two communities that refused to die, banding together to meticulously rebuild entirely new towns on higher ground.Appalachia: A settlement completely wiped off the map, leaving only the sandy shores of Appalachia Bay as its monument.Cleveland: The Land Run town saved by an existential engineering marvel—a massive levee system that keeps the lake at bay just feet from residents' doorsteps.Finally, Tiff looks into the "Kooky and Spooky" side of Keystone Lake. From divers reporting unsettling, shadowy shapes navigating the underwater ruins, to local legends of a witch's smoldering chimney and the phantom cries of a baby near the old bridges—this episode balances heavy history with local folklore. Plus, Tiff wraps up with a look at other Oklahoma lakes sitting atop ghost towns and how historic droughts are bringing these lost main streets back to the surface.Sources:US Army Corps of EngineersThe TCC ConnectionWikipediaTulsa PeopleThe OklahomanNational Endowment for the Humanities

Ep 173: Elohim City Pt 3⚠️ WARNING: If you haven’t listened to Parts 1 and 2 yet, stop right here, go back, and binge those first—or prepare to be utterly confused!In Jess’ final installment on Oklahoma’s most infamous extremist compound, she is tying up all the loose ends and answering the burning questions that left our jaws on the floor last week.Last week, Tiff asked a fantastic question: Do the residents of Elohim City actually vote in mainstream U.S. elections? The answer lies in a wild, anti-government theology that completely isolates them from modern civic life—though they aren't above using a capitalism loophole to fund their compound.Then, Jess dives straight into the explosive aftermath of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing:The Citizen-Driven Grand Jury: Discover how a rare loophole in the Oklahoma Constitution forced a massive, independent investigation that put the FBI's "Lone Wolf" theory to the ultimate test.The "John Doe No. 2" Mystery: Who was the phantom square-jawed man seen with Timothy McVeigh? We look at the mind-bending psychological theory the government used to erase him from the case, and why the eyewitnesses refused to back down.Undercover Informant CI-183: Meet Carol Howe, a wealthy debutante turned ATF spy who successfully infiltrated Elohim City and explicitly warned handlers about a plot to bomb federal buildings on April 19th—weeks before the tragedy. Why did the government ignore her, and why did they try to lock her up afterward?Finally, we look at Elohim City today. From its transition to a council of elders to swapping its 1970s aesthetic for smartphones, Wi-Fi, and a massive dome church, we look at how this compound managed to survive into the modern era by rebranding from armed militants to quiet "survivalists."🎧Grab your headphones—the finale is here.🎬Sources:WikipediaFlatlandkc.orgCenter for Public SecretsSPLCLos Angels TimesToday In Fort Smith

🎧 Episode 172: Inside the "Babylon Loophole" of ElohimCitySovereignty, Steel, and the StateDeep within the Ozark foothills lies Elohim City, a private, tight-knit enclave that has long operated on the fringes of American society and law enforcement radar. For decades, its residents have rejected the authority of the United States government, viewing the outside world through a deeply insular lens. But a community can’t survive entirely cut off from the modern world—especially when its economic lifeblood depends on the open road.In this episode, Jess dived deep into the fascinating contradiction known as the "Babylon Loophole." She explores how a community that strictly rejects state-issued driver's licenses internally manages to operate a massive, highly profitable interstate trucking fleet. Discover the complex legal tightrope residents walk: holding state-sanctioned Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) to keep their rigs legal on federal highways, while simultaneously denying the very government that issues them.How do you reconcile a theological rejection of the state with the practical economic need for its infrastructure? Join us as we unpack the history of Elohim City, the mechanics of the "Babylon Loophole," and the ongoing tension between sovereign ideals and the reality of the American highway system.🚛 What We Cover This Week:The Sovereign Contradiction: Why local state IDs are banned inside the gates, but federal DOT compliance is strictly enforced.The Trucking Fleet: How hauling freight became the economic engine keeping this controversial community afloat.The Legal Gray Area: How residents navigate traffic stops, federal audits, and interstate commerce laws.💬 Oklahomans, we want to hear from you! Did you grow up hearing stories about this place? Do you have your own encounters or local legends from the area? Drop a reply below!Sources:WikipediaFlatlandkc.orgCenter for Public SecretsSPLCLos Angels TimesToday In Fort Smith 

Ep 171: Elohim City Pt 1This week, Jess dives deep into a highly requested, deeply unsettling listener pick from GayleBob03. Tucked away in the dense hardwood forests and rugged limestone ravines of the Ozark foothills lies a place most Oklahomans regard as the most dangerous and mysterious enclave in the state: Elohim City.Literally translated from Hebrew as "The City of God," this 400-acre private, isolated community operates not as a traditional town, but as a sovereign, self-contained domain. While the local Stilwell Democrat Journal deadpanned that they don't visit because they "like to breathe," the Southern Poverty Law Center has called it something far more sinister: the meeting ground for America’s most dangerous extremists.Join us for Part 1 as Jess maps out the heavily fortified, survivalist geography of this sovereign redoubt, breaks down the bizarre "Babylon-defying" micro-economy that keeps it running, and charts the apocalyptic visions of its Canadian-born founder, Robert Millar. We’ll look at how a peaceful polygamist farming commune transformed into a central hub for the radical right underground railroad—and how the community navigates the real world (including a very fascinating double standard regarding commercial truck driving licenses).What We Cover in This Episode:The Layout of a "City of Refuge": A look at the tactical geography of Adair County, Oklahoma. Accessible only by a single, winding 6-mile dirt road, the compound is perfectly designed to spot outsiders miles before they reach the gate. We tour its distinct sectors, from monolithic tornado-proof dome houses to the massive 7,200-square-foot polyurethane foam church core.The Prophet "Grandpa" Robert Millar: How a strict, pacifist Canadian Mennonite upbringing collided with vivid, mid-century apocalyptic visions of urban race wars and nuclear fallout, leading one man to pack up his followers and head to the hills of Oklahoma under a "Divine Call."The 1982 Militia Pivot: How Elohim City shifted from a quiet, eccentric farming commune into an armed, paramilitary outpost after crossing paths with the leadership of the notorious domestic terror group, Covenant, the Sword, and the Arm of the Lord (CSA).Life Inside the "Us vs. Them" Bubble: The fascinating sociological engineering used to disconnect residents from modern society. They don't just live separately; they use an entirely different calendar where the day starts at noon, the year relies on the spring equinox, and the Sabbath falls uniquely on Tuesdays.The "Babylon" Loophole: A breakdown of their self-sustaining economy. While residents reject government authority, skip out on personal driver's licenses, and use home-made IDs on their own land, their primary financial engine—Millar Trucking—strictly complies with federal and state CDL laws to keep their commercial freight fleet funded by the very secular world they despise.The Millar Dynasty: Meet the eight children who formed the physical, industrial, and social framework of the compound—from the sons who took over the elder pastoral and trucking roles to the daughters who built strategic marriage alliances with visiting far-right extremists.This episode sits squarely at the intersection of history, sociology, and true crime. Next week in Part 2, we will tackle the darker, more damning allegations surrounding Elohim City…Want more details? Let us know in the review section if you want us to cover how Elohim City handles federal land taxes and local mail service in our next episode layout!Sources:WikipediaFlatlandkc.orgCenter for Public SecretsSPLCLos Angels TimesToday In Fort Smith 

Nestled along the isolated, scenic base of Buffalo Mountain in southeast Oklahoma lies a regional landscape steeped in medical history, systemic tragedy, and spine-chilling lore. Often lumped together by urban explorers and ghost hunters as a single massive, haunted entity, the "abandoned medical complexes of Talihina" actually comprise two entirely separate facilities separated by just one mile of rural road: the Eastern Oklahoma Tuberculosis Sanatorium (EOTS) and the Talihina Indian Hospital (TIH).In this episode, Tiff untangles the intertwined histories of these neighboring institutions, exploring an era when the only known "cure" for a deadly respiratory epidemic was forced exposure to freezing mountain air. We dive into the architectural marvels designed by the creators of the Oklahoma State Capitol, the horrifying reality of experimental medical procedures performed without anesthesia, and the bizarre, "cursed" opening day food poisoning outbreak that set the tone for decades of unsettling energy.Finally, we confront the paranormal legacy that refuses to die. From the tragic ghost lore of the children’s "preventorium" at Harper Hall to firsthand accounts of a haunting graveyard worker, we examine why these heavily guarded, crumbling ruins remain some of the most culturally significant—and strictly forbidden—locations in Oklahoma.The Geography: How a single mile of rural road near the Winding Stair Mountains caused decades of historical blurring between a state-run facility for white patients and a tribal complex for Native populations.The Sanatorium Method: A look back at the 1920s and 30s medical philosophies, where patients slept year-round on massive, open-air screened porches, wrapped in heavy blankets to let the brisk mountain breeze fight the infection.A Self-Sustaining Town: How the facility grew from a 50-patient camp into a massive grid designed by legendary architects Layton, Hicks, and Forsyth, complete with its own power plant and dairy farm.The "Preventorium": The history of the historic Harper Building, built in 1930 as a state-of-the-art ward to observe children exposed to tuberculosis.Transition to the VA: The post-1975 era, its eventual abandonment, and its current endangered status on the National Register of Historic Places.Built by the People: A shared healthcare monument for the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations, constructed out of stone from Buffalo Mountain by the WPA and Choctaw citizens.The Cursed Dedication Day: The bizarre local folklore surrounding the October 4, 1938 formal opening luncheon, where a massive outbreak of food poisoning struck down high-ranking tribal and state dignitaries alike.Exemplary Care Amid Shortages: The legacy of Dr. David H. Gillick, who single-handedly performed surgical procedures for 140 patients during extreme federal funding cuts.The Modern Transition: The Indian Self-Determination Act, the move to a modern $26 million facility in 1999, and recent EPA efforts to preserve the site.Emma’s Story: A chilling, firsthand account from a Choctaw elder who survived the hospital, detailing a terrifying interaction with a local grave-digging janitor, and the horrors of having her lung collapsed without anesthesia.The Haunted Anatomy of the Ruins: Reports of shadowy figures, disembodied coughing, phantom footsteps in long hallways, and the chilling sound of children giggling near the old nurses' quarters.Frozen in Time: The stark contrast between rooms entirely cleaned out and others looking as though they were suddenly ransacked and abandoned mid-use.Zero Tolerance: A firm reminder that the site is a registered Native American Heritage Site. With 24/7 camera monitoring, active security patrols, and immediate fines/detainment by the Choctaw Nation, this is one haunted location you can only explore through your headphones.Sources:Abandoned Oklahoma:Old Talihina Indian HospitalAbandoned Oklahoma: EOTSFacebookRedditPetticoats & PistolsThe Daily MirrorTikTok

Episode 169: The Blizzard of January 1886The Storm That Ended the Open RangeAs we transition into the warmth of spring and summer, Ep. 169 takes a chilling look back at one of the most transformative disasters in American history. The Blizzard of January 1886 wasn't just a weather event; it was a "systemic collapse" that reshaped the Great Plains, ended the era of the cowboy "cattle barons," and forced a total reorganization of life in the Oklahoma Territory.From temperatures dropping 100 degrees in a single day to the macabre "Big Die-Up," Jess explores how a "perfect storm" of meteorology and human complacency created a generational catastrophe.A Dark Play on Words: Learn why ranchers turned the celebrated "round-up" into the "Die-Up" after discovering millions of cattle piled against fence lines in the spring thaw.The White Death: The storm’s reach from the Oklahoma Panhandle to the Canadian border, and why the stench of the aftermath covered thousands of square miles.The Drift Fence Trap: How a tool meant to control cattle became a death sentence, leading to animals "stacking up" by the thousands.The "Groundhog Effect": The indigenous survival techniques and "kooky" tactics (like holding onto a cow’s tail) that saved lives in a zero-visibility whiteout.The Driverless Stagecoach: The harrowing legend of the frozen driver at Camp Supply and the horses that knew the way home when he didn't.The Human Toll: Why victims were often found frozen just yards from their own front doors.The 100-Degree Drop: How an Arctic air mass collided with an extratropical cyclone to create a "white abyss."Complacency Killed: Why a "warm" December and a speculative cattle bubble left the West completely vulnerable to the elements.Birth of the NWS: How the failure of the Army Signal Service led to our modern civilian National Weather Service.Architectural Evolution: From "Soddies" to storm shelters—how Oklahomans learned to build into the earth to survive its fury.The End of an Era: The bankruptcies of cattle empires (including Theodore Roosevelt’s!) and the shift from the open range to modern, fenced ranching.The aftermath of the 1886–1887 winters was so financially devastating it wiped out nearly 90% of the large cattle companies in the American West. Even future President Theodore Roosevelt lost 60% of his herd, calling it a "perfect smashup" before heading back East to pursue politics.Join us as we brave the "Winter of the White Death" and discover how the resilience of early Oklahomans laid the groundwork for the safety systems we rely on today.Sources:History ChannelWikipedia - Blizz United StatesWikipedia - January 1886 BlizzardThe Salina PostThe National Weather ServiceThe Hard Winter of 1886 and 1887 by Dwan GreenInside the Episode...The "Great Die-Up"Survival & TragedyThe Meteorological "Perfect Storm"A Legacy of ChangeKOOKY FACT:

Episode 168: Diamonds, Bonds, and Jesse James: Zeo Zoe Wilkins (part 3)In the gripping conclusion to the saga of Dr. Zeo Zoe Wilkins, the "Love Pirate" finally meets a storm she cannot outrun. After a lifetime of high-stakes swindles, "shotgun weddings," and an oil-fueled fortune, Zeo’s world narrows to a run-down house on Park Avenue in Kansas City. But as her beauty fades into a haze of addiction and paranoia, a new figure emerges from the shadows of history: Jesse James Jr., the son of America’s most notorious outlaw.This episode explores the volatile collision between a professional con artist and a man desperate to escape—yet haunted by—his father's violent legacy.The Legend of Jesse James Jr.: We go behind the famous name. From witnessing his father’s murder at age six to the "Trial of the Century," Jesse Jr. spent his life trying to be a respectable man of the law. Why did a successful defense attorney and silent film star get entangled with a woman like Zeo?A Toxic Partnership: It began as a legal pursuit of Zeo's millions but descended into a "chaos storm" of romance and mutual paranoia. We detail the three factors that turned these collaborators into bitter adversaries: financial "double-crosses," Jesse’s fear for his reputation, and Zeo’s terrifying belief that he was closing in on her assets.The Final Days of Dr. Wilkins: February 1924. Zeo is living in a fortress of her own making—windows drawn, fearing her brother, her lovers, and her lawyer. We trace the final timeline: the missed appointments, the "hallucinations" of family coming to save her, and the $50 check that marked her last Saturday on earth.Crime at 3005 Main St.: A 13-year-old boy on a ladder discovers a scene that would scar Kansas City for decades. We break down the gruesome forensic evidence—the blood-soaked carpets, the struggle that left Zeo’s diamonds on her fingers but her bonds missing, and the mystery of the broken basement window.The Investigation & The Suspects: Was it the "Spurned Husband," the "Hired Gun," or the brother with a history of violence? We look at why the KCPD centered their crosshairs on Jesse James Jr. and how the scandal ultimately drove the outlaw’s son to a physical and mental collapse.The VerdictThe episode wraps with a look at the legacy of the "Love Pirate." Buried in an unmarked grave, Zeo Zoe Wilkins left behind a mystery that remains unsolved over a century later. We discuss modern theories—including the compelling case made by author Laura James—that suggest the Bandit’s Son may have finally succumbed to the violence of his namesake.Was it a robbery gone wrong, or a carefully calculated execution by a man who knew too much?How deep are you looking to go into the legal proceedings following her death, or are you more interested in the local legends surrounding her "Castle" home?Sources:TikTokFind A GraveMissouri & Ozark HistoryHistoric JoplinNew York TimesTroveThe Love Pirate and the Bandit’s Son by Laura JamesKey Highlights

Episode 167: Diamonds, Doctors, and Deception: The Many (more) Lives of Zeo Zoe Wilkins (part 2)"I was a doctor, not a Mrs." — Zeo’s infamous retort when questioned about her trail of marriages.In the early 20th century, a woman’s reputation was her currency—but for Dr. Zeo Zoe Wilkins, scandal was her business model. This week, Tiff dives back into the sensational, stranger-than-fiction life of a woman who treated the Midwest’s wealthy elite like a personal checking account and earned the chilling moniker, "The Vampire of Kansas City."We begin in Colorado, where Zeo and her brother Arthur allegedly used a shotgun wedding and a fabricated pregnancy to swindle millionaire banker Thomas Cunningham. Within 24 hours of their second marriage, Zeo had signed over his empire, sold his bank for millions in today’s currency, and sent the rival banker into a guilt-ridden spiral that ended in tragedy.But the "Love Prisoner" Cunningham was just the tip of the iceberg. The fallout triggered a "chaos storm" in the media, pitting Zeo against Tabitha Taylor, a scorned common-law wife who claimed she was worth double what Zeo had stolen. As the press fueled a public obsession with the "Siren vs. the Wife," Zeo’s past began to catch up with her—uncovering "buried" husbands, bigamy, and a mysterious "poison recipe" that left investigators wondering if her medical degree was a license to kill.This episode explores:The Marksheffel Years: Zeo’s marriage to a controversial car mogul, their high-speed life in Colorado Springs, and the fleet of Cadillacs that couldn't outrun her boredom.The Great Divorce Wars: How Zeo navigated triple-lawsuits, federal court battles, and the "Mary Pickford effect" that changed Nevada divorce laws forever.The Downward Spiral: A dark turn into bootlegging, drug addiction (cocaine, opium, and morphine), and a series of dramatic suicide attempts that even her husband didn't believe.The Park Avenue "Clinic": Zeo’s final chapter in a Kansas City home that served as a medical office by day and a "trysting place" for a love octagon of boarders, grocers, and underworld figures by night.As the episode closes, the walls close in. With her looks fading and her fortune spent, Zeo finds herself trapped in a violent standoff with her own brothers. Bruised, terrified, and claiming her family is out for blood, Zeo makes a desperate call to a lawyer with a legendary name: Jesse James Jr.Was Zeo Zoe Wilkins a cold-blooded predator, or a woman driven to madness by her own ambitions? Join us as we unpack the grit, the glamour, and the gore of one of history's most fascinating con-artists.Sources:TikTokFind A GraveMissouri & Ozark HistoryHistoric JoplinNew York TimesTroveThe Love Pirate and the Bandit’s Son by Laura James

The Love Pirate’s Ledger: Dr. Zeo Zoe Wilkins (Part 1)In the "Oil Capital of the World," wealth flowed as freely as the crude, but few prospectors were as efficient as Dr. Zeo Zoe Wilkins. Known to history as the "Black Widow of Tulsa" and the "Love Pirate," Zeo wasn’t just a socialite—she was a highly educated Doctor of Osteopathy who used the stethoscope and the wedding ring as tools of the trade.In Part 1, Tiff traces Zeo’s journey from a hungry childhood in the Midwest to the lecture halls of medical school, where she discovered that her greatest talent wasn't just healing the body, but emptying the pockets of those who owned it. From forging her way into college to a trail of "mysterious" deaths and secret marriages, we explore how a high school dropout became the most feared and fascinating woman in Oklahoma.This episode features heavy use of Zeo’s personal diaries, providing a chilling, first-person perspective into the mind of a woman who decided that being "bad" was much more profitable than being "good."Sources:TikTokFind A GraveMissouri & Ozark HistoryHistoric JoplinNew York TimesTroveThe Love Pirate and the Bandit’s Son by Laura James

Ep 165: Suitcase of Death!"Straight shooters always win, lawbreakers always lose."— The Tom Mix Club MottoImagine surviving hundreds of death-defying movie stunts, jumping canyons on horseback, and becoming the highest-paid star in Hollywood, only to be taken out by your own luggage. This week, Jess dives into the legendary life and bizarrely tragic death of the world’s first true "Silver Screen Cowboy"—Tom Mix.From his humble beginnings as a bartender in Guthrie, OK, to earning a staggering $17,000 a week (that’s over $328,000 today!) as the king of silent Westerns, Mix redefined the genre. He was the man in the signature white ten-gallon Stetson, a real-life rodeo star who insisted on doing his own stunts and living by a "straight shooter" code of ethics.But as the era of "talkies" moved in and his fortune began to fade, a fateful drive in a custom yellow 1937 Cord would lead to a freak accident that cemented his name in the annals of the strange and spooky.Inside the Episode...The First Cowboy Hero: How Tom Mix paved the way for legends like John Wayne and Roy Rogers with his flamboyant suits and his "Wonder Horse," Tony.The Oklahoma Connection: Exploring his deep roots in the Oklahoma Territory, from the 101 Ranch to his time as a night marshal in Dewey.The Fatal Detour: The details of the 1940 car crash near Florence, Arizona. Was it the impact that killed him, or was it the aluminum missile in the back seat?The "Suitcase of Death": We discuss the heavy Halliburton suitcase that struck Mix in the back of the head—an object that now sits in a museum, still bearing the dent from the fatal blow.Spooky Time: Paranormal reports from the Tom Mix Museum in Dewey, OK. We explore stories of:The "attached energy" felt by visitors near the suitcase.Phantom hoofbeats of Tony the Wonder Horse.The ghostly figure in a ten-gallon hat seen standing by the Arizona highway at twilight.If you want to see the "Suitcase of Death" for yourself, head to the Tom Mix Museum in Dewey, Oklahoma. Admission is free, but watch your back—museum staff have been known to hear disembodied footsteps and see orbs on the security cameras.Location: 721 N Delaware St, Dewey, OK 74029Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:30 AM to 4:30 PMDid the suitcase have a "destiny" to fulfill, or was it just the ultimate freak accident? Grab your Stetson and join us for this wild ride through history!Sources:TravalancheThe Fence PostTrue West MagazineOHS - Tom Mix MuseumStetson.comOHS - Tom Mix    Weird Oklahoma by Wesley Treat

Episode 164: Circus City USAWhen you think of Oklahoma, images of sprawling prairies, college football rivalries, and "The Oklahoma Standard" likely come to mind. But tucked away in the southeastern corner of the state lies a town with a colorful, gravity-defying secret. Welcome to Hugo, Oklahoma—better known to the world as Circus City, USA.In this episode, we trade the gridiron for the big top as we explore how a small town in "Little Dixie" became the premier winter sanctuary for over 20 different circus troupes. Since the 1940s, Hugo hasn’t just been a place where the show stops; it’s where the performers, the ringmasters, and the elephants call home.In This Episode, We Discuss:The Grocery Store Visionary: How a local businessman named Vernon Pratt hand-delivered a proposal to circus owners, convincing them that Hugo’s mild climate and railroad access were the perfect perks for their weary traveling shows.A City with Deep Roots: We look back at Hugo’s origins—from its naming after French novelist Victor Hugo to its complex history as part of the Choctaw Nation and the proposed State of Sequoyah.Showmen’s Rest: A tour through the world-famous Mount Olivet Cemetery, where the monuments aren’t just headstones—they are granite circus tents and life-sized elephants. We explore the final resting place of legendary performers and the nearby "Bull Rider’s Reprieve," home to rodeo icons like Lane Frost.The Endangered Ark: Discover the Endangered Ark Foundation, a non-profit retirement home and conservation center managing the second-largest herd of Asian elephants in the United States.The Legacy Today: From trailers in driveways labeled "The World’s Largest" to the memorabilia-filled booths of the Circus City Diner, we see how Hugo continues to embrace its identity as a haven for the traveling show.Whether you're a history buff, a circus enthusiast, or just curious about the hidden gems of the Sooner State, this episode reveals why Hugo is truly the most unique "winter home" in America.Sources:WikipediaOklahoma State UniversityAtlas ObscuraDestguidesEndangered Ark Foundation

Episode 163: The Kelly Clan – Oklahoma’s "Bloody Benders"?Think the "Bloody Benders" of Kansas were the only family of frontier serial killers? Think again. In this episode, Jess takes Tiff on a dark journey into the lawless "No Man’s Land" of the Oklahoma Panhandle to uncover the legend of The Kelly Clan.In the late 1880s, the Kelly family—William, Kate, Bill, and Kit—allegedly operated a deadly tavern near Oak City, where travelers stopped for a meal but often left in a cellar. With a mechanical trapdoor, a blood-stained axe, and 11 suspected victims, the Kellys’ story reads like a mirror image of the notorious Benders. But here’s the twist: while the Benders famously vanished into thin air, the Kellys met a much more violent end at the hands of a 20-man vigilante posse.In this episode, we discuss:The Trapdoor Tavern: How the Kellys used "bait" and a spring-loaded floor to rob and murder wealthy travelers.The Discovery: The "foul stench" that led investigators to a gruesome find of 11 bodies, including a Chicago salesman and a Texas merchant.Vigilante Justice: The high-speed chase into the Texas Panhandle that ended in a confession, a broken neck, and a triple hanging.The Jurisdiction Vacuum: Why nobody was ever charged for the execution of the Kelly family in the Wild West's most lawless strip of land.Fact or Frontier Fiction?: We break down the "Copycat Conspiracy." Are the Kellys and the Benders the same people? Or was the entire Kelly Clan a 19th-century newspaper hoax designed to give the public the "closure" they never got with the Benders?Whether they were real-life monsters or a sensationalized tall tale, the story of the Kelly Clan is a "kooky" and curious piece of Oklahoma lore you won’t want to miss.Sources:MurderByGaslightMirror   WikipediaLOC.gov

Episode 162: The Skirvin Hotel – The Grande Dame’s Double Life"I don't think it's haunted. I think NBA players are just a bunch of sissies." — Petra Germany, Skirvin Artist-in-ResidenceIn this episode, we step inside the revolving doors of Oklahoma City’s most storied landmark: The Skirvin Hilton. From its 1911 debut as the "Waldorf of the Heartland" to its dark years as a boarded-up ruin, the Skirvin has mirrored the boom-and-bust soul of Oklahoma itself.We trace the vision of oil tycoon W.B. Skirvin, a man who didn't let Prohibition dampen the party, installing a statue of Bacchus in the lobby and allegedly running a high-stakes speakeasy on the 10th floor. We also highlight the hotel's pivotal role in the Civil Rights movement, marking the moment in 1958 when activist Clara Luper led the charge to make the Skirvin the first fully integrated major hotel in the city.But luxury and legacy aren't the only things checking in. We dive deep into the "Spooks" that have made the Skirvin a legendary adversary for the NBA. Is there any truth to the tragic tale of Effie, the ghost of a desperate maid, or is she a folk legend born from the hotel's colorful past?In this episode, we discuss:The Architecture of Ambition: How Gothic Revival style and $100,000 Austrian chandeliers defined Oklahoma luxury.Prohibition & Perle Mesta: Secret tunnels, "The Hostess with the Mostess," and a 99% perfect restaurant score.The NBA vs. The 10th Floor: Why stars like Kyrie Irving, Lou Williams, and Metta World Peace are terrified of this hotel (and why the resident artist thinks they're "sissies").Fact vs. Folklore: Uncovering the real-life tragedies of the Skirvin, from the 1903 murder of the real Effie to the mysterious death of manager Frederick Scherubel.Sources:Haunted Oklahoma by Jeff ProvineBBCAbandoned Oklahoma

Episode 161: Jim Thorpe Pt. 2 – The Bright Path Beyond the GoldIn the conclusion of our two-part series, we follow Jim Thorpe as he hangs up his cleats and heads west to the silver screen. While the world remembers him as the "greatest athlete in the world," this episode explores the gritty, complex, and often heartbreaking chapters of his life that followed his Olympic and professional sports career.From the glitz of Hollywood to the halls of Washington D.C., and finally to a controversial resting place in a town he never visited, we trace the "Bright Path" of a man who spent his final decades fighting for the dignity of his people.Hollywood & Activism: Discover Jim’s prolific film career, appearing in over 70 movies. We dive into his role as a pioneer for authentic Indigenous representation, his fight against "Redface," and his work founding the Indian Center in Los Angeles.The Lobbyist: Hear how Thorpe used his fame and speaking fees to lobby the federal government for Sac and Fox land rights, earning the title Akapamata (Caregiver).Personal Triumphs and Tragedies: A deep look at Jim’s three marriages, his eight children—including the activist legacy of his daughter Grace—and his lifelong battle with alcoholism and poverty during the Great Depression.A "Stolen" Legacy: The shocking story of Jim’s 1953 funeral, where his third wife, Patricia, interrupted traditional Sac and Fox rites to "shop" his remains to a Pennsylvania coal town in search of a monument Oklahoma refused to build.Justice Delayed: The 110-year journey to restore Jim as the sole gold medalist of the 1912 Olympics, finally achieved in 2022.The Path Forward: We highlight the modern-day efforts of his descendants and the Sac and Fox Nation to bring his "bones" home, alongside upcoming film projects produced by LeBron James and Angelina Jolie."His mother named him Wa-Tho-Huk, meaning 'Bright Path.' Though that path was often shadowed by tragedy and systemic racism, it remains a beacon for Indigenous athletes and activists today."70+: The number of films Thorpe appeared in between 1931 and 1950.110 Years: The time it took for the IOC to officially reinstate him as the sole gold medalist (1912–2022).1982: The year the "30-day rule" was discovered, proving his disqualification was illegal.$2,000: The annual scholarship amount currently offered by the Jim Thorpe Memorial Foundation to Native youth.Sources:Olympics - Jim ThorpeOklahoma Historical SocietyUnited States Olympic and Paralympics MuseumCBS NewsPro Football Hall of FamePath Lit By Lightning by David Maraniss

Episode 160: Jim Thorpe – The Bright Path of an American Icon"Sir, you are the greatest athlete in the world." — King Gustav V of Sweden to Jim Thorpe, 1912.This episode explores the Herculean life of James Francis Thorpe (Wa-Tho-Huk), a man whose athletic dominance was so absolute that he redefined the limits of human potential. From the rugged wilderness of Oklahoma to the podiums of Stockholm, Thorpe’s journey is a testament to resilience in the face of systemic erasure.A Natural Foundation: Born in a log cabin in Indian Territory (1887/1888), Thorpe’s childhood was his training ground. He developed legendary lung capacity by swimming the North Canadian River and explosive power by chasing wild horses.The Weight of Loss: The tragic death of his twin brother, Charlie, and later his parents, fueled a "restless disposition" that manifested in his habit of running hundreds of miles to escape the rigid discipline of Indian boarding schools.The Street-Clothes Legend: In 1907, Thorpe walked onto a track in overalls and a dress shirt, borrowed shoes, and immediately shattered the school high jump record at 5' 9".Pop Warner’s Protégé: Under the legendary coach, Thorpe became a "one-man track team" and a football terror. He famously scored all 18 points in the 1911 upset against Harvard and once eluded 30 varsity players in a single drill to prove his toughness.The Mismatched Shoes: After his shoes were stolen on the morning of his events, Thorpe scavenged two different shoes from a trash bin, wearing extra socks to make them fit. He still won gold in both the Pentathlon and Decathlon.The Statistical Margin: In the decathlon, he scored 8,412.95 points, beating the runner-up by nearly 700 points—a record that remained untouched for 36 years.The Non-Citizen Champion: Ironically, as a Native American, Thorpe was not legally a U.S. citizen when he won gold; the Indian Citizenship Act didn't pass until 1924.The Scandal: In 1913, the AAU stripped his medals over a technicality: he had earned roughly $25 a week playing minor-league baseball, a common practice college athletes usually hid under aliases. Thorpe, famously honest, used his real name.Three-Sport Titan: MLB: Played six seasons, ending with a .327 average in his final 60 games.NFL: Helped found the league; served as the first president of the APFA (now the NFL) in 1920.The Oorang Indians: Led an all-Native American NFL team that featured halftime shows of tomahawk throwing and bear wrestling.Jim Thorpe wasn't just an athlete; he was a political and cultural symbol. While American officials sought to strip his identity and his medals, his competitors—the very men who "won" by default—refused to accept his titles, recognizing him as the sole true champion. His medals were finally restored in 1982, and in 2022, he was officially reinstated as the sole winner of his 1912 events.Sources:Olympics - Jim ThorpeOklahoma Historical SocietyUnited States Olympic and Paralympics MuseumCBS NewsPro Football Hall of FamePath Lit By Lightning by David Maraniss

In a departure from our usual schedule, this week we are slowing down to look backward. Driven by a surge of missing persons reports, and a personal desire to cut through the noise of a busy season, we are revisiting three names that the world has begun to whisper, but must never forget."Time heals all wounds" is a lie told to those who aren't waiting for a phone call that never comes. In this episode, we explore why a case only truly goes "cold" when the public stops looking. We discuss the shifting landscape of 2026, where forensic genealogy is turning decades-old dead ends into DNA matches, and why your memory of a "minor" detail from years ago might be the final piece of a family's puzzle.We also take a quick look at 3 "cold" Oklahoma cases: Billy “Wild Bill” Lange (2016): A ranch hand with a steady routine who vanished from a job site near Binger, Oklahoma. His truck was found abandoned on I-40, but Bill—and his cracked glasses—were nowhere to be found.James Curt “Kirt” Peavy (2016): He walked away from a home in Broken Bow with a payroll check in his pocket and never looked back. Ten years later, his family is still haunted by a three-minute call from a blocked number that serves as his final footprint.Ondre Vondell Ogans (2007): A Tulsa man who left on a bicycle to meet a friend and never returned. We discuss the suspicious circumstances of his disappearance and the fears that he may have been targeted for his sexual orientation.We break down the data driving modern investigations:The Scale: There are currently over 26,200 active missing persons cases and 15,480 unidentified remains in the NamUs system.The Hope: Forensic science is peaking. In 2025 alone, breakthroughs in degraded DNA samples solved multiple "Jane Doe" cases from the 70s and 80s.The Power of You: A 1% increase in the national homicide clearance rate means hundreds of families get answers. Public awareness is the fuel for that progress.Justice doesn't have an expiration date. If you traveled I-40 in March 2016, or lived in Broken Bow or Tulsa during these disappearances, listen closely. You might be the witness who doesn't know they are one."To those who are missing: we are still looking. We haven't forgotten you, and we won't stop until your story has its final sentence."Links & Resources:OSBI Cold Case Tipline: (580) 248-4050Tulsa Police Department: (918) 596-9143National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs)Sources:NameUSOSBI Cold CasesOK Cold CasesThe Charley ProjectMissing & Murdered FB PageTPD Unsolved Crimes

Episode 158: The "Belle" of Rogers County – The Belvidere MansionIn this episode, we travel to Claremore, Oklahoma, to explore the Belvidere Mansion, a three-story Victorian Gothic "castle" with a history as grand as its four turrets. Built at the turn of the 20th century by wealthy entrepreneur John Melville Bayless, this 9,000-square-foot masterpiece was meant to be a dream home—but it quickly became a site of tragedy and transition.From its origins as a high-society residence to its stints as a specialized hospital for "blood diseases" and a 12-unit apartment complex, the Belvidere has seen it all. We dive into the life of the ambitious Bayless family, the eerie "Kooky Facts" surrounding the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair materials hidden in the walls, and the heartbreaking string of deaths that left the mansion filled with more than just memories.The Highlights--The Visionary: The story of John Melville Bayless, the man who built Claremore's infrastructure but died just six months before his "dream home" was finished.Architectural Salvage: How pieces of the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair ended up as permanent fixtures in an Oklahoma mansion.The Darker Years: The mansion’s transformation into the Cinnabar Hospital in 1919 and its eventual slide into disrepair as a "condemned hazard."The Residents Who Never Left: From the "friendly" ghost of John Bayless greeting guests on the porch to the tragic, lingering presence of his daughter Bland and the "distraught woman" of the 1940s.Modern Day: A look at the mansion's rebirth via the Rogers County Historical Society, featuring a tea room (The Pink House), a genealogical library, and a ballroom that still hosts weddings today.Spook Scale--We discuss the "hotspots" identified by paranormal investigators, including:The Basement: Disembodied footsteps and "ghost stick figures" captured on SLS cameras.The Second Floor: The most active area, where visitors report the sensation of a rope burn on their necks and whispers asking, "Who are you?"The Self-Flushing Toilets: Because even spirits appreciate indoor plumbing.Plan Your Visit--If you’re brave enough to visit the Belvidere in person, here is what’s on the 2026 calendar:Dine: Grab lunch at The Pink House (Mon–Sat, 11 AM – 2 PM).Events:Stargazers Gathering: March 12, 2026.Nightcap at the Belvidere (Tales of the Macabre): April 26, 2026.Kentucky Derby Garden Party: May 3, 2026.Sources:Rogers County Historical SocietyTravelOKLegends of AmericaClaremore Museum of HistoryGhosts and Legends of Oklahoma by Mike RickseckerOklahoma's Haunted Route 66 by Tanya McCoyOHS - Claremore

Episode 157: OK Black Rodeo – The Dust, The Duty, and The DynastyIn this episode, Tiff kicks up the red dirt of Oklahoma to uncover a history often "whitewashed" out of the Hollywood Western: the formidable legacy of the Black cowboy. From the "Soul Circuit" of all-Black towns to the modern-day "Super Bowls" of rodeo, we explore how Oklahoma became the epicenter of a movement where skill met defiance.We dive into the linguistic origins of the word "cowboy"—originally a derogatory label that Black riders reclaimed as a badge of honor—and trace the 100-year history of the Boley Rodeo, a Memorial Day tradition born in one of America's wealthiest historic all-Black towns.The 1-in-4 Statistic: Despite mainstream narratives, roughly 25% of cowboys on the 19th-century trail were Black. Oklahoma’s unique status as Indian Territory made it a sanctuary for skilled Black, Native American, and Mexican riders.Boley & Okmulgee: We break down the differences between these two titans. Boley is the historical soul, while Okmulgee (home of the Roy LeBlanc Invitational) is the professional heart.The Legend of Bill Pickett: Meet the "Dusky Demon," the Oklahoman who revolutionized the sport by inventing bulldogging (steer wrestling)—a technique inspired by herding dogs.Modern Shifts: We discuss the major 2026 news: the Roy LeBlanc Invitational's historic move from Okmulgee to Shawnee to accommodate its massive, growing audience.If you're ready to trade the headphones for the grandstands, we’ve got your 2026 roadmap. So listen in as we celebrate the "Soul Circuit"—a world where the DJ plays R&B, the BBQ is legendary, and the riders are some of the best in the world.Sources:University of IllinoisOklahoma State UniversityTamron Hall Show Boley RodeoBill Pickett RodeoMVSKOKE Media

Podcast Episode 156: The Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken TragedyIn this chilling episode, we travel back to the summer of 1992 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to revisit a crime that shattered the sense of safety in a tight-knit community. Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken wasn't just a restaurant; it was a "fried chicken royalty" landmark with direct ties to Colonel Sanders himself. But on August 17, that legacy of hospitality was met with unthinkable violence.We detail the harrowing "execution-style" robbery that left four young employees dead in a walk-in cooler—all for a sum of just $2,000. From the "inside man" who planned the heist to the rapid-fire investigation and the 14-year legal battle that followed, we examine how one night changed Tulsa forever.What You'll Hear in This Episode:The Legend of Lee’s: The fascinating history of Lee Cummings, the nephew of Colonel Harland Sanders, and how his family built a 42-year legacy at the corner of 9th and Sheridan.The "Kooky" Connection: How the Tulsa franchise owners were actually part of the extended Sanders family and why the community viewed the staff and regular patrons as one big family.A Planned Betrayal: The role of Donnie Daniels, a former employee who used his knowledge of closing procedures and the store safe to lead three others into a deadly trap.The Crime & The Victims: A somber tribute to the four lives lost: Joey Gooch (17), Ted Kindley (19), Stephen Williams (24), and Sendy Lara (27).The Investigation: How a suspicious security guard and a blue Chevrolet led Tulsa PD to identify and arrest all four suspects within just 48 hours.Justice and Appeals: A breakdown of the trials, the "Felony Murder Rule," and the final, controversial words of triggerman Corey Hamilton before his 2007 execution.Key Facts & "Kooky" Insights:The Take-Home Price: When Lee’s first opened in 1966, a full three-piece chicken box with all the fixings cost just $1.25.The Inside Knowledge: The killers didn't wear masks because two of them were certain the employees would recognize them regardless—a chilling detail that foreshadowed their intent.A Community Staple: Despite the horror of 1992, the restaurant reopened and thrived for another 20 years, finally closing its doors in 2012."These four beautiful people were put on their knees and executed like they were a piece of trash... He had no remorse. None at all." — Janice Ramsey, mother of victim Stephen Williams.Sources:News on 6The OklahomanFind Law.comThe Oklahoman - Taped ConfessionsThe Oklahoman The New York TimesWikipediaMurderpedia OCCA

Episode 155: The Ghosts of Fort SillIs it possible for a military base to never truly "close," but instead just layer century after century of restless energy into the soil?In this episode, we are heading to Lawton, Oklahoma, to explore Fort Sill. Unlike other frontier posts that were abandoned to the elements, Fort Sill has been continuously active since 1869. It has evolved from a horseback frontier outpost to a high-tech artillery hub—but it has never quite managed to shake its past.From its founding by General Philip Sheridan and George Armstrong Custer to its dark days as a prisoner-of-war camp for Geronimo and the Chiricahua Apaches, Fort Sill is a pressure cooker of American history. We dive into the "Old Post Quadrangle," built by the legendary Buffalo Soldiers, and explore why this site is considered one of the most haunted military installations in the United States.In this episode, we discuss:The Founding & The "Peace Policy": How a tent city became the epicenter of the Indian Wars.The Sherman Incident: The bloody struggle on a front porch that almost cost a General his life.Geronimo’s Final Years: The truth behind his death and the chilling "Skull and Bones" legend surrounding his grave.The Most Haunted Locations: From the "rocking chair lady" in the Sherman House to the phantom riders on the Cavalry Parade Field.Modern Shadows: Why current trainees still report "shadow people" and phantom drumbeats in the barracks today.Whether it’s the spirit of a mother searching for her lost children or the rhythmic cadence of a 19th-century bugle call, Fort Sill proves that some soldiers never truly finish their watch.Want to see the "Gun Park" or walk the haunted quadrangle yourself? Check out our show sources for info on Fort Sill’s historical walking tours and a list of the episodes mentioned in today's show (Ft. Washita #26, Ft. Reno #45, and Quanah Parker #132).Sources:Army Family and MWR Site: Ft SillGhosts and Legends of Oklahoma by Mike RickseckerUS ArmyKWSO 7NewsX94

"My boy, may an old man's curse rest upon you if you do not try to avenge your father."In 1868, an eight-year-old boy named Frank Eaton witnessed his father’s cold-blooded murder at the hands of lawless vigilantes. Most children would have been broken; Frank just got a gun.In this week’s episode, Jess traces the incredible 97-year journey of the man who would become Pistol Pete. We’re diving deep into the dusty trails of the Old West to follow a legendary marksman who outshot the U.S. Cavalry at fifteen, served as a Deputy Marshal under the "Hanging Judge" Isaac Parker, and spent decades hunting down the men who destroyed his family.But Frank Eaton’s story didn't end with a smoking gun. We explore his unlikely transition from a gritty frontier lawman to a beloved community fixture in Perkins, Oklahoma—and eventually, the living face of Oklahoma State University.Tune in as we discuss:The Blood Debt: The high-stakes duels Frank fought to clear his father’s name.Kooky Facts: Why Frank was often seen walking barefoot on red-hot metal.The Mascot Wars: The modern-day legal battles between OSU, Wyoming, and New Mexico State over who owns the "rootin’-tootin’" legend.The Man Behind the Mask: How a 1923 parade changed the identity of Oklahoma sports forever.Whether you're an OSU fan or just a lover of wild frontier history, this is the story of a man who lived by the gun and died a legend.Pistols firing! 🔫🍊Sources:Wikipedia - Frank EatonFrank Eaton Historical Home National Cowboy & Western Heritage MuseumOklahoma SenateOklahoma State UniversityVisit Stillwater OK.comCowboy State Daily    

This week, your favorite cousins wrap up the crimes of Glen Ake and Steve Hatch.Ake and Hatch were arrested in Colorado and returned to Oklahoma after being linked to the murders of Reverend and Mrs. Douglass, as well as related crimes in Texas. Six weeks after the killings, the manhunt ended on Thanksgiving Eve 1979; Oklahoma officials moved quickly to secure custody. Evidence against them included statements each man made, ballistic links, and testimony from eyewitness survivors Brooks and Leslie Douglass, and girlfriend, Ginger Keefe. Hatch was tried first, convicted, and sentenced to death; Ake’s 1980 trial resulted in death sentences for the murders and extraordinary prison terms for the attempted murders. Subsequent appeals, retrials, and legal rulings (including questions about Ake’s psychiatric evaluation) led to mixed outcomes.Brooks and Leslie survived but endured repeated court appearances and years of retraumatization as appeals required them to testify multiple times. They rebuilt their lives: Brooks finished college, served in ROTC, attended law school, entered politics—winning an Oklahoma State Senate seat at 27—and championed victims’ rights, authoring the Oklahoma Victims Bill of Rights in 1992; Leslie completed college and graduate school, becoming a teacher and assistant principal. In 1995 Brooks met Ake in prison. The siblings later participated in the film adaptation of their story, and Brooks died in 2020; Leslie continues to live in Oklahoma with her family and the legacy of advocating for victims’.Due to the brutal nature of the crimes, listener discretion is advised. Sources:Oklahoma Court of Criminal AppealsThe Oklahoman; 2022; 2022WikipediaMurderpediaDatelineHeaven’s RainThey Will Kill You

Wowza! We’ve already made it through the first full week of 2026! This week, Tiff’s listener pick takes us back to 1979 when OK was rocked by the brutal murders of Rev. Richard and Mrs. Marilyn Douglass.Rev. Richard Douglass was the lead pastor at Putnam City Baptist Church in Oklahoma City. Marilyn Lacy Douglass chose to focus on raising their two children, Brooks and Leslie. The couple married on July 8, 1961, and spent several years as Southern Baptist missionaries in the Amazon region of Belém, Brazil, a formative period for the family before they later settled in rural Okarche, Oklahoma. Their life together—marked by devotion, faith, and service—became the backdrop for the film The Amendment (formerly Heaven’s Rain).On the evening of October 15, 1979, two men, later identified as Steven Keith Hatch and Glen Burton Ake, forced their way into the Douglass home after committing another robbery, tied the family, and brutally executed Rev. Douglass and Marilyn while their children, 16-year-old Brooks and 12-year-old Leslie, were bound and wounded. The attackers shot the four family members; Brooks and Leslie survived despite severe injuries, escaping and seeking help. Investigators quickly traced the suspects through descriptions and the stolen yellow Chevy; Ake and Hatch fled, committing similar violent crimes across multiple states before being captured weeks later. The case drew massive public attention, and an exhaustive manhunt that ended with the suspects’ arrest six weeks after the murders.Due the grave nature of these crimes, listener discretion is advised. Join your favorite cousins for their first True Crime case of 2026…Part 1 of the story of Glen Ake and Steve Hatch.Sources:Oklahoma Court of Criminal AppealsThe Oklahoman; 2022; 2022WikipediaMurderpediaDatelineHeaven’s RainThey Will Kill You

HAPPY NEW YEAR! WOHOO! 2026Jess will be starting this new year out right…with a spooky tale from the Oklahoma Panhandle!Before Robbers Roost became legendary, the Oklahoma Panhandle—once called the Public Land Strip or "No Man's Land"—had a complex history shaped by 19th-century territorial politics and frontier life. After the Compromise of 1850 and boundary adjustments in 1854, a roughly 34-by-168-mile rectangle remained unattached to any state or territory until 1890. The area was traversed for centuries (Santa Fe Trail, Spanish explorers), controlled for a time by Comanche bands, and later overrun by buffalo hunters and Texas cattlemen who grazed open range into the Strip. From the late 1870s settlers and squatters established informal ranches and towns without legal title, relying on self-surveyed claims, local governance, and vigilante justice. Persistent confusion about jurisdiction—exacerbated by the Post Office and mistaken assignment to "Indian Territory"—delayed formal homestead rights until the 1890 Organic Act made the Strip part of Oklahoma Territory, enabling legal land ownership, railroad-driven development, and eventual statehood in 1907.Robbers Roost, on Black Mesa near Kenton in the Panhandle, was a natural stronghold and outlaw haven in the late 1860s, most famously used by William Coe and his gang to raid travelers, ranches, and military posts. Coe fortified a stone fortress with thick walls, portholes, and support structures in nearby canyons; after murders in 1867, a U.S. Army bombardment shattered the fortress, many gang members were captured or lynched, and Coe was later seized and extrajudicially hanged. The site’s foundation remains, and folklore endures—tales of buried treasure, ghostly apparitions, and phantom battle noises persist—though Robbers Roost sits on private land and visitors must not without permission! Join Jess and Tiff this year as they continue to explore all things kooky and spooky in the state of Oklahoma! Sources: OHS - Robbers RoostOklahoma SenateThe Oklahoman   Legends of AmericaOHS - No Mans LandHaunted Oklahoma by Jeff Provine  

Tiff wraps up the fascinating and enormous history of the Cherokee Nation’s FIRST female Principal Chief; Wilma Mankiller. Wilma Mankiller rose from community development work to become a transformational leader of the Cherokee Nation. In 1983 she joined Ross Swimmer as Deputy Chief and, despite severe gender-based hostility—including threats and vandalism—won election and later became the first woman Principal Chief in 1985 when Swimmer joined the BIA. As deputy and then chief she prioritized community development, improved health care and housing, and pursued a balanced economic strategy that respected Cherokee culture while supporting responsible business growth. She reformed council elections to improve local representation, expanded cultural and literacy institutions, and used media access to counter stereotypes and educate voters. Her 1987 and 1991 campaigns emphasized self-determination, federal partnerships, and protecting social programs amid federal budget cuts; she also overcame health crises while maintaining leadership and earning national recognition.As Principal Chief (1987–1995) Mankiller advanced economic diversification, infrastructure projects, and programs supporting small business, education, and healthcare, negotiated tax and self-governance compacts, and pursued resource claims—including the long Arkansas River litigation that led to a 2002 settlement. Her administration faced legal and jurisdictional conflicts with the United Keetoowah Band but also strengthened tribal courts and law enforcement cooperation. After leaving office due to health concerns, she taught, wrote, and campaigned on tribal sovereignty, women’s rights, and public health, receiving many honors (Presidential Medal of Freedom, numerous honorary degrees, hall‑of‑fame inductions). Her legacy endures through community projects, the Mankiller Foundation, cultural recognition, expanded tribal services, and ongoing tributes such as films, a US quarter, and a Barbie in her honor.Wilma Mankiller not only represents the fundamental importance of recognizing our Native roots, but also she represents what ALL girls and women can accomplish. Being a role model does not stop with the Cherokee Nation, but with all of America. What a true gem we had right here in Oklahoma.Sources: WikipediaOklahoma Historical SocietyNational Trust for Historic PreservationBritannicaWilma Mankiller: Chief of the Cherokee Nation by Pamela Dell

This week, Tiff talks about a true Oklahoma warrior woman…Wilma Mankiller. Wilma Pearl Mankiller (born November 18, 1945) was a Native American activist and community developer who became the first woman elected Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. She revitalized the Nation’s government, improved healthcare and education, and advanced a Nation‑to‑Nation model of self‑government with the United States. Raised as one of eleven children on Mankiller Flats in Oklahoma, she experienced poverty, federal relocation to San Francisco under the Indian Relocation policies, and cultural alienation—events she later described as her “own little Trail of Tears.” Those early hardships, combined with her political awakening during the 1960s Red Power movement (including supporting the Alcatraz occupation), led her into organizing, social work, and advocacy for tribal sovereignty and Native children’s welfare.After returning to Oklahoma in the mid‑1970s, Mankiller earned degrees in social science, worked in tribal offices, and survived a near‑fatal 1979 car accident and subsequent health challenges. She channeled her experience into concrete community development: securing grants, leading projects such as laying 16 miles of water pipeline in Bell, Oklahoma, and directing the Cherokee Nation’s Community Development Department. Her leadership emphasized the Cherokee principle of gadugi—working together for the common good—and left a lasting legacy of tribal self‑help, cultural preservation, and strengthened institutions for the Cherokee people.And that’s all just in part 1! Stay with us for part 2 next week!Sources: WikipediaOklahoma Historical SocietyNational Trust for Historic PreservationBritannicaWilma Mankiller: Chief of the Cherokee Nation by Pamela Dell

Thanks for sticking with us while we took care of some home stuff! We appreciate you all!This week’s drop is in with cahoots with one of our favorite cousins, Raven Rollins, host of The Sirens Podcast AKA Sirens | A Southern True Crime Podcast. Remember when Jess covered the Roger Wheeler Case (Season 3: Episodes 128, 129, 130, 131)? Jess and Tiff got the privilege of sitting down with the lead detective, thanks to Raven’s invitation! Oklahoma Hall of Famer and retired Tulsa PD Detective Mike Huff spoke candidly with Raven and your favorite cousins regarding his time working the murder case of Roger Wheeler. When Det. Huff discovered organized crime was involved, you better believe he was shocked! Tune in to the captivating, first hand account, of one of Tulsa’s, as well as Oklahoma’s, most notable heroes. With almost 40 years in law enforcement—and three decades in the Homicide Unit—Huff shares his insights on one of Oklahoma’s most notorious murder cases—the infamous Roger Wheeler / Whitey Bulger investigation—from his new book “Killing My Father: The Inside Story of The Biggest FBI Corruption Scandal In History”, which he wrote with Roger's son, David Wheeler, and historian Laurence J. Yadon. Raven Rollins is an Investigative Journalist, and the host of The Sirens Podcast. Raven focuses on Advocacy of the victims of these crimes, as well as prevention by discussing safety and situational awareness. She investigated the cold cases from the ground up to see if anything may have been missed to convey them in their storytelling accurately. ​With notorious and unknown cases alike, every victim sees the light on our show. Additionally, she is the author of several books, most notably “Sins of the South”, “Allegedly”, and “This is True Crime”. Please check out her books, or give them this gift giving season to the favorite true crime lover in your life! Get Killing My Father on AmazonGet all three of Raven’s book on Amazon 

This week Jess wraps up the devastating and horrific case of Heather Rich. Hang on tight cousins, this is going to be a bumpy ride to justice…Last week’s discussion covered the investigation into the atrocities that befell Heather Rich, and the interrogations of Josh Bagwell, Curtis Gambill, and Randy Wood. All three were tried as adults in Texas because the murder occurred there. Curtis Gambill’s trial began first after a change of venue; he agreed to plead guilty to avoid the death penalty and to testify against Josh Bagwell. Bagwell’s defense relied heavily on victim‑shaming Heather, while the prosecution’s case depended on testimony from Gambill and Randy Wood. Randy Wood ultimately rejected a plea deal, chose to testify against Bagwell without a promise of leniency, and incriminated himself, claiming Bagwell knew of the plan and helped dispose of the body. After the convictions, all three men served time in Texas prisons and experienced further legal and extralegal events (seriously, you gotta listen to the episode…it’s WILD!!). Additionally, the Rich family pursued a wrongful‑death civil suit over the sale of ammunition. Finally, the case left lasting community and family trauma. This is part 3 of 3. Listener discretion is advised this week. Sources:WikipediaNews Channel 6Find a Grave.com ABC NewsChilling Crimes.comThe New York TimesTexas Monthly.com True Crime Line Site.com 

Last week, Jess introduced us to the tragic story of Heather Rich of Waurika. Sixteen-year-old Heather Rich went missing after sneaking out the night of October 2, 1996, and her body was later found in Belknap Creek with severe, fatal wounds; so bad that she could only be identified by a ring. Local law enforcement initially treated her disappearance as a runaway case, so Heather’s parents, Duane and Gail Rich, conducted their own inquiries. Investigators from Montague County, Jefferson County, the FBI, and the Texas Rangers interviewed many people but faced a community “code of silence.” Attention focused on a party at Josh Bagwell’s house the night she vanished and on several local youths—Curtis Gambill, Randy Wood, and Josh Bagwell himself—whose behavior and histories (including violence, drug use, and prior offenses) raised suspicion. Forensic evidence later linked Bagwell and Gambill.Ranger Lane Akin, emotionally affected by the case, and Montague County investigators pursued leads that culminated in the arrest of Gambill, Wood, and Bagwell on October 25, 1996. Under interrogation, Curtis Gambill gave a detailed account implicating Randy and Josh, claiming Heather had been intoxicated and assaulted before being taken to the creek and shot; Randy’s statement aligned closely but portrayed himself as fearful and passive, while Bagwell refused to speak. Curtis failed a polygraph; Randy passed. The scene, witness remarks, and the presence of a matching shotgun—along with confessions and inconsistent accounts—drove the investigation forward. This is part 2 of 3. Listener discretion is advised this week. Sources:WikipediaNews Channel 6Find a Grave.com ABC NewsChilling Crimes.comThe New York TimesTexas Monthly.com True Crime Line Site.com

Listener request this week! Join us as Jess walks us through part 1 of the death of Heather Rich. Heather Rose Rich, a vivacious Waurika, Oklahoma high‑school sophomore and cheerleader’s body was found in Belknap Creek on October 10, 1996. Heather, known for her beauty, bubbly personality, and popularity, had been struggling with personal issues: family stress after her father’s severe workplace injury, self‑harm, eating‑disorder behaviors, experimentation with drugs, and the recent breakup with her boyfriend Randy Wood. She disappeared after a heated argument with her mother over an expensive phone bill; initial sheriff’s deputies dismissed the missing‑person report as a likely runaway case. As rumors about local drug activity and possible links to other troubled teens circulated, a rancher ultimately discovered Heather’s badly mutilated, gunshot‑wounded body in a backwater creek, and her father identified her by a gold heart‑shaped This week’s episode is situated around Heather’s death against the backdrop of Waurika and the Red River country—a small, tight‑knit town with a lawless past and a present marked by limited outlets for youth, drug problems, and social divisions. Key suspects quickly include ex‑boyfriend Randy Wood, a quietly troubled football player from a poor family, and Josh Bagwell, a wealthy peer with whom Heather had flirted; both were absent or evasive around the time she vanished and became persons of interest in the community’s gossip. The discovery of Heather’s body galvanized searches, rumors, and an escalating investigation, and the promise of justice. Listener discretion is advised this week. Sources:WikipediaNews Channel 6Find a Grave.com ABC NewsChilling Crimes.comThe New York TimesTexas Monthly.com True Crime Line Site.com              

Happy Halloween! What better way to wrap up Spooky Season 2025 than with some haunting tales from Oklahoma’s most haunted town? And with Tiff at the reins, you know the spooks and kooks will keep your spine chill!Guthrie, Oklahoma, was established almost overnight during the Land Run of 1889, transforming from a railroad station into a bustling city as tens of thousands of settlers staked claims. Designated as the capital of the Oklahoma Territory and later the first state capital upon statehood in 1907, Guthrie experienced a brief period of prominence before the capital was moved to Oklahoma City in 1910. This shift slowed the city's growth, inadvertently preserving its extensive collection of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture, leading to the establishment of the Guthrie Historic District, one of the largest urban historic districts in the nation.Guthrie is often considered one of the most haunted cities in Oklahoma, with numerous ghost stories tied to its historic sites. Notable locations include the Santa Fe Depot, which served as a bustling railway hub and is now a private event center, and the Blue Belle Saloon, known for its colorful past and spectral inhabitants. The old Logan County Hospital, now converted into a senior living community, is also reputed to be haunted, with reports of ghostly apparitions and eerie occurrences. These sites, rich in history and folklore, attract visitors looking to explore their haunted legacies, especially during the Halloween season.So wrap up our favorite time of the year with your favorite spooky and kooky cousins! Sources:Ghosts & Legends of Oklahoma by Mike RickseckerHaunted Guthrie, Oklahoma by Tonya McCoy & Jeff ProvineAbandoned Oklahoma

Jess wraps up her look at Oklahoma during World War I in this week’s episode. It’s a treat (not a trick) because it includes a brief history of your favorite cousins’ ties to the Great War. The University of Oklahoma experienced a significant transformation during World War I, with strong patriotic sentiments leading many students to consider joining the military. As a result, classrooms emptied, and the university formed a volunteer regiment, allowing male students to participate in military training while continuing their studies. The university actively equipped students for military service, with participation from various groups, including the creation of a regimental band and involvement from female students through the Red Cross. Conversely, Cordell Christian College faced challenges due to its pacifist beliefs, leading to its eventual closure amid local council scrutiny and accusations of disloyalty. Despite some faculty and students participating in the war effort, the college's stance created conflict with patriotic citizens, ultimately resulting in harassment and investigations by local defense councils. Meanwhile, Native Americans played a crucial role in the war, with many serving in the military and contributing to agricultural efforts to support the war. The war brought significant social changes, including increased employment opportunities for women and racial tensions, culminating in incidents of violence against African American soldiers returning home.Come along with Jess and Tiff as we explore the years right after statehood, and how Oklahomans were showing that “Oklahoma Standard” before it was a thing! Sources:World War I Oklahoma (Military) by James GregoryOklahoma Historical Society - WWIOklahoma Historical Society - WWI - 2GearySchools.orgAmerican LegionOklahoma State UniversityChoctaw Nation.comKOSU.org                

Oklahoma became a state in 1907…less than 10 short years later our nation was thrown into the very first World War. Where did that leave OK? What part did we play? This week Jess takes us through those beginning stages…or Part 1 of World War I Oklahoma. Oklahoma's involvement in WWI evolved from initial aversion to enthusiastic participation due to economic pressures. The state experienced significant agricultural decline as European markets closed, leading to falling crop prices. As the U.S. prepared for war, Oklahoma began organizing for the draft, with high rates of registration despite initial resistance. The Green Corn Rebellion in 1917, driven by anti-draft sentiment among farmers, highlighted tensions within the state, leading to arrests and increased patriotism. Public sentiment shifted rapidly, with the government enforcing loyalty and suppressing dissent, further complicating the landscape for Oklahomans during the war. We wonder where all this was during OK History class…Sources:World War I Oklahoma (Military) by James GregoryOklahoma Historical Society - WWIOklahoma Historical Society - WWI - 2GearySchools.orgAmerican LegionOklahoma State UniversityChoctaw Nation.comKOSU.org      

Tiff concludes her 2-parter this on one of OK’s worst bank robberies of all time…On December 14, 1984, the Geronimo bank robbery and murder shocked the small town of Geronimo, Oklahoma, when 19-year-old Jay Wesley Neill, along with his boyfriend Robert Grady Johnson, committed heinous acts that resulted in the deaths of several bank employees and customers. Armed with a handgun and knife, Neill stabbed three female tellers, including a pregnant woman, and shot four customers, killing one. The duo fled with approximately $17,000 and was arrested three days later in San Francisco after using marked bills from the robbery. Both were convicted of murder and sentenced to death, with their appeals process taking seven years, during which unusual events, including competency trials and allegations of misconduct, unfolded.As the legal proceedings continued, both men found themselves embroiled in a web of accusations and appeals. Neill, seeking to save his life, pleaded guilty while attempting to shift blame onto Johnson, leading to a renewed trial where he was again found guilty and sentenced to death. Johnson, who maintained his innocence, faced a trial with circumstantial evidence linking him to the crime but was ultimately convicted as well. The case raised significant questions about the influence of their sexual orientation in the judicial process, with some arguing that Neill's death sentence was affected by anti-gay bias. As of 2024, Johnson continues to file for new trials based on claims of withheld evidence, while the families of victims have also pursued civil actions against the bank for negligence regarding security measures.Join us for the heartbreaking and tragic conclusion to one of Oklahoma’s darkest crimes. SourcesWikipediaLA TimesClark County Prosecuting AttorneyThe GaylyTimeOK Court of Criminal AppealsOklahoma’s Most Notorious Cases Volume 2 by Kent FratesThe Lawton ConstitutionKSWO 7 News          

This week, Tiff tackles a truly savage and senseless case. A case that is still known as the deadliest bank robbery in recent Oklahoma history.In part 1 of this two-parter, Tiff details the brutal Geronimo Bank Robbery on December 14, 1984, in Geronimo, Oklahoma, which resulted in the murders of four people and severe injuries to three others. The primary suspects were local men, Jay Wesley Neill (age 19) and Robert Grady Johnson (age 21), who were a couple facing severe financial hardship and were known to the small-town bank as "problem customers."The attack began at 1:00 p.m. when Neill entered the First Bank of Chattanooga and held three female tellers hostage:Kay Bruno (age 42, bank manager)Jerri Bowles (age 19)Joyce Mullenix (age 25 and six months pregnant)While Neill was in the back room, several customers entered the bank. Neill took five customers hostage.Ralph Zeller (age 33, farmer)Bellen Robles (age 15) and her husband Reuben Robles (age 20) and their child Marie Robles (age 14-month-old baby) Marilyn Roach (age 34, local restaurant owner)The perpetrators fled by 1:30 p.m., leaving behind  "a sea of bloody carnage."Due to the severity, the FBI took jurisdiction. And the hunt for two men was on. Once the suspects were apprehended, all the strings started to unravel. The finger pointing started resulting in court room drama at its finest. Join us as we unwind the premeditation and planning that went into this heinous crime. Sources:WikipediaLA TimesClark County Prosecuting AttorneyThe GaylyTimeOK Court of Criminal AppealsOklahoma’s Most Notorious Cases Volume 2 by Kent FratesThe Lawton ConstitutionKSWO 7 News          

Do you feel that tiny nip in the air? It must mean one thing…the start of SPOOKY SEASON! Jess will kick our favorite season off with a part 2 of the Spooks found at the University of Oklahoma.The Donald W. Reynolds Performing Arts Center was originally built as The Auditorium in 1918. It is a historic building at the University of Oklahoma, but was later renamed Holmberg Hall in 1938 after Fredrick Holmberg, a key figure in the university's music program. In 2005, after a multimillion-dollar renovation, the building was renamed to honor Donald W. Reynolds and features Oklahoma's only European-style performance hall, hosting many famous visitors and significant university events. The center is home to ghost stories, particularly related to Professor Mildred Andrews Boggess, a prominent organist whose spirit is believed to linger, causing mysterious occurrences. Gittinger Hall, named after a notable history professor, is known for its ghostly secrets, including a "coffee-loving" spirit and unexplained sounds. The Delta Gamma Sorority House, on the OU campus, features a ghostly doll named Hannah, believed to embody the spirit of sisterhood, causing playful disturbances and pranks throughout the house.We hope you cousins are ready for a spin-tingling good time! Sources: Campus Ghosts of Norman, Oklahoma” by Jeff Provine University of Oklahoma Websitehttps://www.ou.edu/about/history https://www.ou.edu/visit/ghost-tours

This week Tiff dives in and discusses Oklahoma’s very own prima ballerina…Maria Tallchief.Born Elizabeth Marie Tall Chief on January 24, 1925, on the Osage Indian Reservation in Oklahoma, Maria became not only Oklahoma’s, but also America's first major prima ballerina. She is celebrated for her dedication and pride in her heritage. Rising from humble beginnings, she navigated dual cultural worlds, being trained rigorously by her ambitious mother, who ensured her daughters received artistic opportunities. Maria's ballet career flourished in Los Angeles under renowned instructors, leading her to join the prestigious Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo in New York City. There, she gained recognition through her partnership with choreographer George Balanchine, who created roles specifically for her, showcasing her strength and technical prowess. Throughout her nearly two-decade tenure with the New York City Ballet, she became a key figure in American dance, known for iconic roles like the Firebird and the Sugar Plum Fairy. After retiring in 1966, she dedicated herself to teaching and preserving ballet, influencing future generations. Honored with numerous accolades, including a Kennedy Center Honor and the National Medal of Arts, Tallchief's legacy as a trailblazer and cultural icon continues to inspire dancers and audiences. If you have an aspiring dancer, have them listen to this week’s story and dive in with us! Perhaps our next big prima ballerina is a CCOK fan!Sources:WikipediaNational Women’s History MuseumOHSSchool of American Ballet

This week, Jess wraps up her second installment of Women on Death Row: Marilyn Kay Plantz. This story really feels like a textbook case, with all the betrayal, twists, turns, affairs, greed, and manipulation!Marilyn Kay Plantz became discontent in her marriage to Jim Plantz, leading her to engage in an extramarital affair with 18-year-old William Bryson. Instead of seeking a divorce, she conspired with Bryson to murder her husband for the $300,000 life insurance payout. Jim's charred body was discovered in his burned pickup truck, and initially treated as a potential accident. However, the investigation revealed inconsistencies in Marilyn's behavior, such as her lack of emotional response to Jim's death and her swift attempt to claim the insurance money, which raised suspicions about her involvement. As detectives dug deeper, they uncovered Marilyn's affair and her previous comments about wishing Jim were dead, indicating premeditated intent.Following the investigation, Marilyn and Bryson were arrested, with Bryson eventually confessing to the murder plot in detail. He implicated Marilyn as the mastermind behind the crime, revealing that she had orchestrated the murder with calculated precision. During the trial, the prosecution presented overwhelming evidence of Marilyn's manipulation and planning, while her defense argued she was not involved. Ultimately, both Marilyn and Bryson were found guilty of first-degree murder, and they received death sentences. Marilyn was executed by lethal injection on May 1, 2001, becoming the second woman executed in Oklahoma since 1907, while Bryson had been executed previously in 2000.Sources:Justia.comNews Channel 6 MurderpediaOklahoma Court of Criminal AppealsThe OklahomanThe Oklahoman 2 Crime Quarter on YouTube  The Washington Post           

We’re baaaaaaccckkkk!!Welcome cousins to Season 4! We are so excited that you all are with us again this season! We’re kicking off Season 4 with Jess’ second installment of “Women on Death Row”. This episode, part 1 of 2, covers Marilyn K Plantz. Marilyn Kay Plantz, originally Marilyn Kay Sellers, was executed by lethal injection after spending 12 years on Oklahoma's Death Row. Born in 1960 into a modest, working-class family, Marilyn had a quiet upbringing that emphasized traditional roles for women. She married James "Jim" Plantz, her childhood sweetheart, at a young age, and they appeared to live a typical suburban life with their two children. However, underlying tensions began to surface as Marilyn grew increasingly dissatisfied with her domestic situation. Feeling emotionally isolated and unappreciated, she sought attention outside her marriage, which led to an affair with an 18-year-old named William Clifford Bryson.This relationship quickly escalated from casual conversations to a deadly plan against Jim Plantz. Marilyn manipulated Bryson into believing her husband was abusive, fostering a scheme to stage Jim's death to collect on a life insurance policy. She involved Bryson's friend, Clinton McKimble, and together they plotted Jim's murder. On the night of August 26, 1988, after a brutal attack with a baseball bat, they attempted to set his body on fire in his truck. Following the murder, Marilyn helped cover up the crime and mislead investigators while her children remained asleep in the house. The tragic events ultimately led to her arrest and a trial that would reveal the shocking details of the crime.Join us as we dive into how a church-going mother ended up on death row. Sources:Justia.comNews Channel 6 MurderpediaOklahoma Court of Criminal AppealsThe OklahomanThe Oklahoman 2 Crime Quarter on YouTube  The Washington Post   

Tiff is going to wrap Season 3 up with a banger of a creepy place…St. Vincent’s Home in Oklahoma City.  The property, often mistaken for an abandoned church, was once a hospital established in 1944 by the Catholic Brothers of Mercy. Initially intended to care for mentally and physically ill men and boys, the facility expanded over the years, adding more rooms and amenities. Its history includes a tragic incident in 1962 when a former nurse confessed to murdering patients, leading to the hospital's eventual closure. In 1968, the building was repurposed as a rehabilitation center for alcoholics and renamed The Main Artery, managed by Father Richard Frank Dolan until his unsolved murder in 1988.Today, the property is private and strictly off-limits to the public due to safety concerns. Those who dare to visit report eerie experiences, such as cold sensations, strange noises, and sightings of shadows, reflecting its haunted reputation. Despite the risks, thrill-seekers and ghost hunters are drawn to the site, leading to increased security measures. The property remains a point of intrigue, with rumors of a demonic presence and ongoing paranormal investigations, but it is crucial to remember that entering the premises is illegal and dangerous.And cousins, this ends Season 3! Thank you so much to all our friends, family, and fans! We couldn't and wouldn't do this without you. We hope you will stick around for season 4 when we can bring you even more kooky and spooky stuff in and around the great state of OK. Again thanks for listening…Sources:Abandoned, Forgotten, & Decayed WebsiteAbandoned OklahomaOnly in Oklahoma WebsiteRedditRoaming Ryan via FacebookGhost Asylum on YouTubeBrothers of MercyNorthwestern Oklahoma State UniversityFreakmore Paranormal 

This week, Jess tackles one of Oklahoma’ s many instances of the US Government going back on a treaty made with Native Tribes…Chitto Harjo, also known as Crazy Snake, was born in 1846 into the Muscogee Creek Nation, which held onto important ceremonial roles even as other Native tribes faced significant changes due to U.S. policies. The Muscogee people, descendants of a rich culture that once thrived across the Southeastern United States, constructed impressive ceremonial complexes and formed a sophisticated political confederacy. However, in the early 19th century, U.S. Indian policy aimed to remove the Muscogee and other tribes from their ancestral lands. This led to a forced relocation, with many Muscogee settling in Indian Territory, where they established farms and a new governance structure. Harjo emerged as a prominent figure opposing land allotment policies that threatened tribal sovereignty and cultural identity, advocating for the restoration of traditional customs.As tensions escalated in the late 19th century, Harjo led a faction known as the Snakes, which opposed the Dawes Commission's allotment system. Their resistance involved organizing a separate government and engaging in protests rooted in ancient Muscogee traditions. Despite initial successes, including establishing jurisdiction over a small area, Harjo's movement faced significant backlash from both tribal governments and U.S. authorities. The situation intensified with violent confrontations, ultimately leading to Harjo's arrest and imprisonment. Although he was never captured after his release, his life took a mysterious turn, with rumors of his death in various locations. Harjo's story exemplifies the broader resistance of the “Five Civilized Tribes” against U.S. encroachment and the struggle to maintain their identity and autonomy.Join us this week as we examine Chitto Harjo and the Crazy Snake Uprising. Sources:OHS - Chitto HarjoOHS - Crazy Sanke UprisingOHS - Smoked Meat Rebellion  OHS - Allotment Wikipedia - Chitto HarjoWikipedia - Crazy Snake RebellionFindAGrave.comMarietta MonitorJSTOR.orgOklahoma Originals: Early Heroes, Heroines, Villains & Vixens by Jonita Mullins FiveCivilizedTribes.org 

When picturing the stomping grounds of serial killers Oklahoma doesn’t quite come to mind…right? Well, Tiff is going to trample right over that belief in this week’s episode!The Oklahoma City Butcher is an unidentified serial killer responsible for the brutal murders of three young, unhoused Native American women—Cathy Lyn Shakelford, Arley Bell Killian, and Tina Marcia Sanders—between 1976 and 1986. All victims were subjected to brutal deaths at the hand of someone unknown. Cathy, 18, was found in an abandoned house, her mutilated body parts scattered, while Arley, 22, had her body parts discovered by children playing basketball. Tina, also 22, was found in a similar gruesome manner, indicating a pattern of violence against women from marginalized backgrounds. Despite investigations, including connections to notorious serial killer Henry Lee Lucas, the cases remain unsolved, highlighting the alarming rates of violence against Native American women, who are often overlooked in criminal reporting. The killer is believed to still be at large, prompting ongoing calls for information from the public. This episode comes with listener discretion due the graphic deaths. Trigger warnings for various kinds of abuse as well. If you have any information, please contact OSBI Cold Case Unit at [email protected] or OKC Crime Stoppers at 405*235*7300…or you can visit their office or mail them a tip at 700 Colcord Dr, OKC, OK 73102 or contact Oklahoma City Police Department at 405-297-1180Sources: WikipediaUnresolved PodcastThe Daily Oklahoman: April 17, 1986; November 30, 1993Justice for Native PeopleOdd Murders and Mysteries

Nothing says kooky and spooky like a jail, turned church, turned handicap home, turned cult headquarters! But Jess found just the place! "Church Row" is located on Noble Avenue in Guthrie, OK. It features a series of houses of worship. Guthrie became a city, almost quite literally, overnight during the 1889 Land Run. This area also houses the notorious Black Jail, constructed in 1892, to manage the outlaws that plagued the region. Initially deemed "escape-proof," the jail, in fact, saw multiple successful escapes, including several notorious figures from the American Frontier. Over time, it transitioned from a federal prison to a church and later housed the controversial Samaritan Foundation cult, whose leader, Linda Greene, was linked to bizarre beliefs and the mysterious disappearance of her husband, Allen Ross. Following Greene's death, the jail has remained abandoned, attracting paranormal investigators who report strange occurrences, including ghost sightings and unexplained sounds, adding to its eerie legacy. Today, efforts are underway to restore the building, though its haunted history continues to intrigue and mystify.Join us this week as we explore one of Oklahoma’s most well-known haunted towns! Sources:Haunted Guthrie, Oklahoma by Tanya McCoy & Jeff ProvineGhosts and Legends of Oklahoma by Mike RickseckerThe Haunted AtticAbandoned OklahomaEdmond Life and LeisureThe OklahomanMediumOklahoma Mysteries          

This week, Tiff dives into the story of a true Oklahoma legend.Quannah Parker was the last great Comanche Chief, ruling over a vast territory that was originally Comanche land long before settlers arrived. The Comanche people thrived as skilled horsemen, becoming a powerful tribe after the introduction of horses by the Spanish. Quanah, born around 1845, was the son of Cynthia Ann Parker, a captive who was adopted by the Comanche after the Fort Parker Massacre. His mother struggled to adapt after being recaptured by Texas Rangers in 1860, ultimately dying in despair. Quanah became a respected leader among the Comanche, refusing to sign treaties that compromised their land. He led warriors in battles against U.S. forces but later adapted to reservation life, promoting education and self-sufficiency while maintaining ties with both Native and White communities. Known for his wealth and influence, he established the Native American Church and became a cultural figure, advocating for his people even as their lands were encroached upon. Quanah Parker passed away in 1911 and was buried with honors, leaving a legacy celebrated through various locations and events named in his honor. His life reflects the complex balance between traditional Comanche culture and the pressures of modernization.Join your favorite cousins as we jump into the way-back machine, and explore a piece of Oklahoma’s Native history! Sources: Kevin Costner's The West Docu-series on the History Channel, S1 E4WikipediaOklahoma Historical SocietyTexas State Historical Association