Forensic Friday

 We’re recording live from the ODVSOM conference in Breckenridge, Colorado, to break down the harrowing Netflix documentary Maternal Instinct. This week, we examine the chilling 2020 murder of Reagan Simmons-Hancock by Taylor Parker. We dissect the months-long fake pregnancy deception, explore what a Cluster personality disorder looks like in a forensic context, and discuss the complex, heavy debate surrounding the death penalty. Join us as we blend professional insights from the conference with a deep dive into one of the most disturbing cases of calculated manipulation in recent history.  Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

When the lie becomes more important than the truth, lives are at risk. In this mini-episode, we revisit the tragic case of Michelle Wilkins and the woman who tried to steal her future. We explore the psychological breakdown of Dynel Lane, discussing how grief, manipulation, and the desperate need to maintain a fraudulent reality led to a premeditated attack. Join us as we examine the factors that turn a desperate person into a predator.  Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

 It started with an unrelated warrant in a quiet southern Ohio village, but what law enforcement uncovered inside a small Hamden home has shocked the nation. This week, we break down the horrifying discovery in Vinton County, where 16 children—ranging from toddlers to teenagers—were found living in unimaginable squalor and isolation. We analyze what we know abou four members of the Siders family, and the chilling details released by state authorities  Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

In this BRAND NEW episode, NEVER BEFORE HEARD, get an overview of what gaslighting is and how to recognize it Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

We often tell ourselves that because we work in law enforcement or the justice system, we could 'never' get caught up in an abusive relationship. But Denise Fransua, a dedicated probation officer from Parker, Colorado, reminds us that the reality is much more complex. This week, we share Denise's story—not just to talk about the tragedy of her passing, but to honor the professional she was and the warning her life provides to us all. We discuss how even the most prepared individuals can be targeted by coercive control and why no one is immune. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Today we're continuing our "Am I Dating A..." series, this time talking about one of the most misunderstood and misused labels in the mental health field: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. What is the line between neatness and true OCD? How do you differentiate between distressing symptoms of repetitive intrusive thoughts vs coercive control and a partner wanting their way just because? How do you seek help or encourage a partner to seek help, and how do you decide when Resentment and Radical Acceptance cannot coexist in the same relationship? Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Do we trust unlicensed strangers with our lives? Today, we go deep into the tragic case of Maria Eduarda, a young woman whose life was cut short by a rope-jumping operation that failed on every level. We analyze the dangerous allure of extreme recreation and how the absence of regulation is turning adrenaline-fueled hobbies into lethal traps. We also contrast the world of true extreme sports with the rise of viral thrill-seeking, asking the tough question: Are we being pushed to take risks we don't understand for the sake of an audience? Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

When you love someone struggling with addiction, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos of their behavior. This week, we talk about the hard reality of dating an addict. We explore why secrecy and defensiveness are the natural defensive reflexes of the disease—and why you shouldn't be the one paying the price for them. From recognizing the early warning signs to protecting your own values and mental health, this episode is about finding the clarity to decide if your relationship is a partnership or a struggle for survival. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

In today's episode, we discuss a case brought to us by our follower, shoutout to Keri! It's the case of a (allegedly) psycopathic narcissist who used every trick in thebook to force his partner to listen and agree, to repeat what he told her, and even to film his RIDICULOUS music videos. We discuss similar cases in our work, the signs of abuse the failure of law enforcement in this case, and talk a little about the truth and fiction of neurolinguistic programming. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Narcissism isn't just an ego problem; it’s a pattern of manipulation that leaves you feeling small and perpetually off-balance. In this mini-deep dive, we examine the forensic indicators of a narcissistic relationship. We discuss why 'the mask' eventually slips, why they rely on gaslighting to maintain control, and how to snap out of the trauma bond and get off of the approval treadmill. You aren't crazy, you’re being made to feel that way. Let’s talk about how to get your life back.  Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

It started with a babysitting gig in North Ogden, but behind the closed doors of the Millerberg home, a sinister cycle of grooming was already in motion. This week, we examine the tragic 2011 death of 16-year-old Alexis Rasmussen. We dissect the drug-fueled abuse that led to her overdose, the shocking decision by the perpetrators to dump her body like 'trash,' and the legal battle that eventually put Eric Millerberg behind bars. We also take a hard look at the role of his wife, Dea Millerberg—her complicity, her trial, and the debate over how much culpability a partner bears in a crime they helped cover up. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

We’re officially back in Colorado after a whirlwind weekend in Las Vegas for CrimeCon 2026! This episode is a bit different—we’re setting the case files aside to talk about the real highlight of the convention: meeting all of you. From the listeners who stopped by to share their own stories to the fellow creators and experts who made this trip unforgettable, we are walking away with a full heart. Tune in as we share our favorite memories from the floor, the lessons we learned, and a massive thank you to everyone who made this trip so special. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

We’re officially back from CrimeCon 2026, and to be honest, we need a break from the heavy stuff. This week’s mini-episode is a palate cleanser. We’re diving into the absolute bottom of the barrel when it comes to criminal genius—from the bank robber who thought lemon juice made him invisible, to barefoot bandits, to people who just can't seem to avoid googling their plans. Join us for a quick, light look at the criminals who made us laugh, facepalm, and wonder how they ever thought they’d get away with it. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

In 2018, seven-year-old Kayden Mancuso was murdered by her father during court-ordered, unsupervised visitation—despite repeated safety warnings from her mother. This tragedy sparked a legislative revolution. Today, we break down 'Kayden’s Law': what it is, how it’s fundamentally changing custody courts, and why it’s a necessary tool in identifying homicide risk. We explore the shift toward mandatory judicial training on domestic violence and why a history of abuse must now supersede the default 'presumption of shared parenting.'" Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

You're dating a new person. Your firends love (or hate) them way more than you think they should.The new man in your life started off so promising, but one day the mask of perfection slips.There's something "off" about your new girlfriend, but every time you try to confront it, you come out looking like the crazy one.If any of this sounds familiar, tune in and listen as we discuss some basic signs that the person you're dating might actually be a psychopath.And check out Jeannine's new book, "Psychopaths in the Wild: A Field Guide" Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Domestic violence isn’t always physical abuse; sometimes, it’s a terrifying display of coercive control that ends in a fatal crash. Today, we bridge the gap between toxic relationship dynamics and the link between suicidality and homicidality. We look at how Mackenzie Shirilla’s case fits into a broader pattern of 'if I can’t have it, nobody can' mentality. We also weigh in on the national debate sparked by The Crash: how do we teach our children the value of life when they seem convinced they are above the consequences of taking it? This is a deep dive into the intersection of adolescent impulsivity, forensic evidence, and the lack of parental accountability.  Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Join us this week as we talk a little bit more about our backgrounds, how we got here, and why we do the work we do Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

When the statutory criteria for an AMBER Alert forces police to wait, minutes can mean the difference between life and death. Today, we look at the trial and sentencing of Tanner Horner for the capital murder of Athena Strand. We analyze the failed defense strategies presented by his legal team in the spring of 2026—including mitigating pleas regarding autism spectrum disorder and childhood trauma—and explore why the jury rejected a life sentence. Crucially, we dive into how Athena's mother transformed her unimaginable grief into legislative action, pushing through Texas’s 'Athena Alert' law to protect future children. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Join us this week to chat a little about our crime con plans and the worst pharmacy experience of Jeannine's life Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

When Caroline Muirhead turned informant against her fiancé, she expected the protection of the law. Instead, she was met with what critics call 'shocking stupidity and neglect.' We dive into the documentary Should I Marry a Murderer? to analyze how Police Scotland allegedly abandoned their star witness. We discuss the psychological spiral that followed—including Caroline’s descent into drug use and her controversial decision to move back in with the killer while acting as a secret operative. It’s a somber look at the high price of doing the right thing in a broken justice system. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Join us for a quick chat about the unfolding situation involving a man accusing a female executive colleague at one of the biggest banks in the world of sexual harassment.  We warn against trial by social media and discuss implicit bias while considering the messy landscape of “internal investigations.”  The stakes are high and the public airing of details can make recovery for a victim or falsely accused more difficult.  Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

In 1964, Jacques Mossler, a multi-millionaire financier, was found brutally murdered in his Key Biscayne apartment, stabbed 39 times. The investigation quickly turned toward his wife, Candy Mossler, and her nephew, Mel Powers, uncovering an allegedly illicit and incestuous romance that shocked the nation. This episode dives into the sensational trial that followed, exploring how the defense turned the 'forbidden' nature of the defendants' relationship into a distraction that led to one of the most controversial 'not guilty' verdicts in Florida history. Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Ad for Reliatrax practice management software Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

This week we bring you a special guest and a fun community event here in Colorado! We talk to our new forensic bestie Keri Cotterman about the mission of Safe Shelter of St Vrain, and their upcoming Met Gala Watch Party at the Times Collaborative in Longmont.Safe Shelter of St Vrain is a local shelter for survivors of domestic violence serving Longmont and the surrounding areas for over 48 years. Their mission is "to provide safety, support and resources to individuals affected by domestic and gender based violence, abuse in later life, teen dating violence, and human trafficking."If you're in the area, please show up and walk the red carpet in your highest of high fashion (or your favorite sweats!) on Monday, May 4th for their free Met Gala Red Carpet watch party! Listen to live music, learn about the shelter, meet others in the community, and sign up for a chance to win fabulous prizes! More details at: https://www.safeshelterofstvrain.org/metgalaIf you can't attend but would like to donate to the cause, you can do so at: https://www.safeshelterofstvrain.org/donate-1  Ad for Southeast Counseling in Parker, CO Support the showDisclaimer: Jeannine and Natalie are commentators on publicly sourced information. Any case information and opinions are based on records in the public domain and are purely speculative in nature. Their comments are not meant to diagnose or treat any condition for listeners, and they are not functioning as licensed therapists providing services on the show. Any information shared based on general client experiences is coincidental and not meant to identify current or past clients. If you or someone you love is having a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.