Secret Passage Podcast

In this episode we unpack the disturbing case of Haley Beck, a 27-year-old teacher at Centennial High School in Peoria, Arizona, who groomed and sexually abused a star football player. We examine how her behavior blurred lines in the classroom and the troubling silence from the parents, teachers, coaches, and students who witnessed it. Ultimately, we confront the clear abuse of power and trust, exploring why a teacher would do something like this. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram: @secretpassagepodcast TikTok: @secretpassagepodcast If you like our work and want to support us on Patreon:  patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver Episode Art: AJ

In Part 2 of our series on JFK Jr. and the Kennedys, we unpack the tragic July 16, 1999 plane crash that claimed the lives of John F. Kennedy Jr., Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, and her sister Lauren Bessette. We explore the reckless decisions behind the preventable disaster—including flying at night over water without a flight plan, with an injured foot and medication in his system. We push back on the unfair blame heaped on Carolyn, examining the impossible standards she faced as America's prince's wife, while highlighting the deeper generational trauma and family machine that protected the Kennedy name at all costs. This episode explores how privilege and inherited wounds can impact innocent lives.   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram: @secretpassagepodcast TikTok: @secretpassagepodcast If you like our work and want to support us on Patreon:  patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode we take a break from true crime to explore the enduring fascination with JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. We dive into our Gen X nostalgia for 1990s New York, the Camelot mythology, and the Kennedys as America's version of royalty, while unpacking fame, generational trauma, and the real people behind the myths. From John's charismatic yet complicated life under constant public scrutiny to Carolyn's struggle with the relentless paparazzi spotlight she never wanted, we reflect on why the 90s still hold such a grip on us — and what was truly lost when John, Carolyn, and Lauren died in 1999, just as the decade's optimism gave way to a very different millennium. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram: @secretpassagepodcast X: @secretpasspod TikTok: @secretpassagepodcast If you like our work and want to support us on Patreon:  patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode, we discuss the civil lawsuit filed by Aidan Romain against Harvard-Westlake School, alleging racial harassment and sexual abuse on the elite water polo team. A talented Black athlete who joined as a freshman varsity standout, Aidan endured repeated incidents that school officials failed to address or report, despite multiple complaints. We explore the culture of silence at prestigious institutions, the emotional toll on young athletes, and the importance of holding schools accountable. Through Aidan's story and that of another affected student we highlight the courage required to seek justice and the systemic issues that allow harm to persist. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode we finish our two-part series on Jeffrey Epstein, tracing his improbable rise from a humble Brooklyn background to elite circles. We lay out a timeline of his career, crimes, controversial plea deal, and death, while expressing profound exhaustion with the endless speculation and moral panic surrounding the Epstein Files. We focus on verifiable corruption, exploitation of girls and women, and attempt to push back against unsubstantiated conspiracy theories and redirect attention to ongoing trafficking crises. Raw and weary this episode is a candid exhale from two hosts who've had enough of the "infection that won't go away". If you're as fatigued by the Epstein discourse as we are, join us for a no-BS conversation that attempts to cut through the noise. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In the winter season finale of the Secret Passage Podcast, we lay the groundwork for a multi-part deep dive into the Jeffrey Epstein files. In this episode we look back to Julian Assange and WikiLeaks and explore the 2016 Podesta email leaks that sparked Pizzagate, the strange coded references to "pizza" and "grape soda," Anthony Weiner's laptop discoveries, and the broader tensions between transparency, national security, and elite power networks. We share our personal journeys from dismissing these ideas as conspiracy nonsense to now grappling with unsettling questions. We reflect on the impact of information dumps of this size in an already overwhelming digital age. This episode sets the stage for further exploration and discussion when the series resumes on March 6th. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, we dive into the chilling disappearance of Brian Shaffer, a 27-year-old medical student who vanished without a trace after a night out at the Ugly Tuna Saloona bar in Columbus, Ohio, on March 31, 2006. Captured on CCTV chatting with friends and two women just before 2 a.m., Brian walks out of frame—yet he's never seen leaving the building on any footage, despite heavy surveillance. We explore why this case feels so baffling compared to other missing persons cases, debunk popular theories like running away or suicide, and discuss the eerie surveillance blind spots that make it seem like he disappeared into thin air. Join us as we discuss the lingering mystery of this haunting case.  Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In the final episode of our Madeleine McCann series we examine the media frenzy surrounding the 2007 disappearance of three-year-old Madeleine. We trace the coverage's dramatic shifts—from initial sympathy to later waves of suspicion, tabloid accusations against the parents, and sensational leaks that fueled moral outrage and pack-journalism tactics. Drawing parallels to the JonBenét Ramsey case, we critique how profit-driven sensationalism and our preference for tidy narratives often overshadow the search for truth and inflict real harm on grieving families. We explore the weaponization of empathy and anger in modern media, urging listeners to consume media with critical awareness rather than passive certainty. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In part two of our three-part Madeleine McCann series we examine the main theories regarding the 2007 disappearance of three-year-old Madeleine from her family's apartment at the Ocean Club resort in Praia da Luz, Portugal. Building on the case overview in part one, we look at theories including parental involvement (accidental death and cover-up), burglary gone wrong, organized child trafficking, Madeleine wandering off, and abduction by a lone predator. We discuss the strengths, weaknesses, and implications of each while reflecting on compassion fatigue, media overload, and the emotional challenges of deep-diving into such cases. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In the first installment of our three-part series on the Madeleine McCann case we revisit the heartbreaking disappearance of three-year-old Madeleine McCann from her family's holiday apartment in Praia da Luz, Portugal, on May 3, 2007. We explore the eerie parallels with the JonBenét Ramsey case, the parents' routine checks on their sleeping children while dining nearby at the tapas bar, the immediate chaos that compromised the crime scene, and the rapid shift from global sympathy to intense scrutiny and blame directed at Kate and Gerry McCann. The episode examines early theories, the role of cadaver and blood dogs, the intense media frenzy, and the lingering questions that keep this case alive nearly two decades later—setting the stage for deeper dives into theories and media coverage in parts two and three. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In the final episode of our three-part series on the JonBenét Ramsey case, we reflect on our emotional journey, share our final conclusions based on the available evidence, and look at the media's role in the case. We unpack how early police leaks, media sensationalism, and confirmation bias shaped public perception. Disturbingly, the media played a role in objectifying a six-year-old girl, vilifying her parents, and fueling decades of misinformation. A powerful cautionary tale about narrative manipulation, cognitive traps, and the human cost of rushed judgment—this wrap-up challenges listeners to question what we think we know and how we came to know it.   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In the second part of our three-part series on the JonBenét Ramsey case, we delve into the theories that have kept the case alive for nearly 30 years. Was it a vengeful intruder targeting John Ramsey, was it a tragic accident covered up in panic, or did the murderer have sexual motives? We unpack the conflicting evidence—the three-page ransom "essay" written on Patsy Ramsey's notepad, the crime scene with its sadistic elements like the garrote, and the unknown male DNA that exonerated the Ramseys but remains unidentified—while exploring psychological angles, family dynamics, and the enduring fascination with the case.    As Boulder police continue retesting evidence with advanced DNA technology and conducting fresh interviews, we reflect on why no theory fully satisfies, why the case feels so personal, and the heartbreaking toll on survivors like Burke Ramsey. We probe the human cost of an unsolved tragedy and the questions that still haunt us.   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

On the morning after Christmas 1996, six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey vanished from her family's lavish Boulder home—only for her parents to discover a bizarre, three-page ransom note demanding $118,000 and threatening her life. Hours later, her body was found in the basement, beaten, strangled, and bound in a scene that launched one of America's most enduring mysteries. We dive into the haunting details of this case: the infamous ransom letter written on the family's own notepad, the botched police response that contaminated the crime scene, and the swirling theories. With fresh DNA testing and interviews advancing the investigation nearly 30 years later, part one of this three-part series explores the media frenzy, the cultural obsession, and the endless questions that still grip the public. Perfect for true crime fans, this episode unpacks why this tragedy remains unsolved—and why it refuses to fade away.   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In January 2007, 21-year-old Channon Christian and 23-year-old Christopher Newsom were carjacked at gunpoint after sharing a kiss in a Knoxville apartment building parking lot. What began as a robbery quickly turned into 24 hours of unimaginable physical and sexual assault and eventually murder at the hands of five strangers. Eighteen years later, this remains one of the most sadistic crimes in modern American history. In our final episode of the fall season we tell Christopher and Channon's story. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Secret Passage Podcast will return after the holidays. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

Five-year-old Kinsleigh Welty spent the last months of her life locked in a feces-covered closet, starved to 21 pounds by the mother who called her a demon. Despite repeated removals for abuse and neglect, Indiana DCS kept handing her back due to policies that prioritize family reunification. Text messages between her mother and grandmother reveal chilling cruelty and apathy. We unpack the massive failures that led to this preventable death. Listener discretion strongly advised. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver  

In this episode we examine the tragic hot-car death of 2-year-old Parker Scholtes in Marana, Arizona, on July 9, 2024. Her father, Christopher, a stay-at-home dad struggling with alcohol addiction, left Parker in a parked SUV for three hours while he drank beer, watched porn, and played video games—leading to her fatal heatstroke at an internal temperature of 108.9 °F. We explore the role of addiction, the distraction of explicit content, the family's response, and Christopher's suicide days before sentencing. Ultimately, this is a cautionary story about the lethal dangers of alcohol, inattention, and the false sense of security that "it can't happen to us". Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver              

In this week's episode, we dive into the disturbing case of Jesse Mack Butler, an 18-year-old Oklahoma high school baseball player convicted of raping and strangling two teenage girls he had been in relationships with, nearly killing one. Butler received a light sentence with no jail time after he was given youthful offender status. The victims, victims' families, and the commmunity are outraged. We explore why the lenient outcome sparked outrage and what it reveals about prosecuting rape. Listener discretion advised. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver    

In this week's Halloween episode we discuss Stanley Kubrick's The Shining. We love this movie! We look at this masterpiece through the lenses of the Gothic, addiction, narcissism, and intergenerational trauma.  Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver            

This week we discuss female pedophiles examining the cases of teachers Christina Formella, 30, accused of abusing her 14-year-old student and Mary Kay Letourneau, who groomed 12-year-old Vili Fualaau, bore his children, and married him post-prison. We look at cultural biases that result in lighter sentences for female perpetrators and the underreporting of abuse of male victims. We question arrested development, impulsivity, and the emotional motivations behind these crimes.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver  

In this episode we look at social media influencer culture, focusing on the tragic case of Emilie Kiser whose young son drowned in the family pool. We explore the intense public backlash Kiser faced upon returning to social media, highlighting the toxic dynamics of parasocial relationships and the attention economy. We unpack the costs of influencer fame and the toll of living under public scrutiny. Join us for a thought-provoking look at empathy, blame, and the blurred lines between authenticity and artifice in the digital age. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

Join us for a chilling start to the fall 2025 season of the Secret Passage Podcast as we dive into the heartbreaking case of Laken Snelling, a 21-year-old University of Kentucky cheerleader accused of secretly giving birth to and then killing her newborn in a shocking act of neonaticide. We explore the complex issues behind neonaticide, drawing parallels to cases like Amy Grossberg and Brian Peterson, Brooke Skylar Richardson, and Gail Eastwood-Ritchie.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In our season finale episode we explore the shocking case of Emily Long, a New Hampshire mother who killed her husband, two of her children, and herself in August 2025. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of Secret Passage, we revisit the Columbine High School shooting, exploring the events, timeline, and devastating impact of the attack carried out by Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. We discuss the warning signs, systemic failures, and psychology of the perpetrators. We reflect on the broader societal implications, including school safety protocols and the role of bullying, while emphasizing the importance of recognizing and acting on red flags to prevent future tragedies.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, we dive into the chilling case of Paris Lee Bennett who murdered his four-year-old sister in 2007. We explore the psychological and environmental factors that may have contributed to his actions, drawing parallels to the recent murders of Jessica Lyman and her son Eli Painter. We look at the neuroscience of psychopathy, referencing Dr. James Fallon's research on the "psychopath brain" and the potential for early intervention to prevent violent outcomes.   Links:   James Fallon's book The Psychopath Inside:   https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17707530-the-psychopath-inside   Greater Good Science Center interview with James Fallon:   https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/can_a_psychopath_learn_feel_pain   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode, we discuss Savannah (Shannon Wilsey), a prominent figure in the adult industry, whose early trauma and struggles with addiction shaped her turbulent journey. We speculate about the factors that may have led to her battle with addiction and ultimately her suicide. We reflect on the evolving landscape of the adult industry, examining shifts in mental health awareness, and the impact of the digital age. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode we discuss Ghislaine Maxwell, exploring her privileged upbringing, her role as Jeffrey Epstein's enabler, and the psychological factors that may have driven her actions. We look at the dynamics of power, manipulation, and class that fueled her complicity in Epstein's sex trafficking network. We explore the broader implications of such predatory behavior and share our thoughts about how we can protect our youth from similar exploitation. Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of the Secret Passage podcast, we dive into the chilling Idaho Four murder case, exploring the tragic events, the investigation, the media's handling of the case, and the emotional toll on victims' friends and families. We look at the psychology of Bryan Kohberger, and discuss how early intervention might prevent such tragedies.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of the Secret Passage podcast, we explore the tragic story of Katie Meyer, a star Stanford soccer player and team captain who took her life in 2022 after facing a harsh disciplinary process. We discuss the institutional failures of Stanford's Office of Community Standards, which pursued action against Meyer for spilling hot coffee on a football player in defense of a teammate, despite neither party wanting to escalate the issue. We look at the immense pressure Meyer faced, the lack of mental health support, and the resulting Katie Meyer's Law, which ensures students have an outside advocate during disciplinary actions. We touch on broader themes of mental health stigma, social media pressures, and the need for empathy in academic institutions.   Links:   Katie's Save:   https://katiessave.org/   Information about Katie Meyer's Law:   https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/2024/09/29/katie-meyer-stanford-mental-health-california-law/75433731007/   Save: The Katie Meyer Story   https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/save-the-katie-meyer-story/umc.cmc.3rnzvc1ylmuscdlpfmiedelzu   Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of The Secret Passage Podcast we discuss Madison Holleran, a 19-year-old University of Pennsylvania student and elite athlete who died by suicide in 2014. Despite her outward success and curated social media presence, Madison struggled with the transition to college life and became depressed. We discuss how societal expectations, social media, and unrecognized mental health struggles can create a silent crisis, even in those who seem to "have it all."    Links:   What Made Maddy Run by Kate Fagan:   https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/kate-fagan/what-made-maddy-run/9780316356534/?lens=little-brown   Madison Holleran Foundation:   https://www.madisonholleranfoundation.org/   Suicide Prevention Resource Center:   https://sprc.org/about-sprc/   Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode we explore the controversial Byron Smith case, the murders of Haile Kifer and Nicholas Brady. We discuss the legal and ethical questions surrounding self-defense, the Castle Doctrine, and the impact of military service and trauma on mental health. Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

This week's episode provides a sneak peek into the kind of content we offer on our Patreon. Our producer, Tim, interviews us as we revisit the Prepper episode together. Join us!   Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver  

Join us for the season finale of the Secret Passage Podcast. We look at the world of parasocial relationships, exploring how social media and influencers create an illusion of intimacy that fuels both fandom and fierce criticism. From nostalgic celebrity crushes to the devastating impact of online shaming, we unpack the emotional pull of digital connections and the dark side of snark communities. Touching on recent influencer tragedies, mimetic desire, and the psychological toll of public shaming, we question our investment in curated lives and call for more empathy in a hyper-connected world. Join us for a look at how technology reshapes relationships, identity, and accountability.   Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

Join us as we dive into the world of prepping. From chasing crows to save baby bunnies to dodging wildfires, we share what sparked our interest in prepping. Why do we resist preparing for disasters like earthquakes, wildfires, or even a zombie apocalypse? We explore psychological barriers, debunk myths about preppers, and offer practical tips to start small. Come along with us as we discuss self-sufficiency, community, and surviving chaos.    Links:   The Urban Prepper - Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@theurbanprepper Doomsday Preppers: National Geographic https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/show/6e70ab41-6da6-478f-9d76-565070aa757d/season/1 Inside the Prepper Movement: Preparing for Disaster and Ensuring Survival - WELT Documentary https://youtu.be/jjuvNBwmi3w?si=L0NzuhVI6N5aLtej The Casual Preppers Podcast: https://www.casualpreppers.com/ Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this special episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, co-host Shannon Rogers interviews Dana Vespoli for an intimate look into her life and career. From her journey in the adult industry to her reflections on its challenges and evolution, Dana shares personal stories, professional insights, and her recent spiritual journey.    Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver      

In this episode we explore the Vietnam War, focusing on the My Lai Massacre as a lens to examine the psychological toll of war and the fragility of human morality.   Links:   Kill Anything That Moves by Nick Turse  https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250045065/killanythingthatmoves/   Vietnam War Timeline:  https://www.history.com/articles/vietnam-war-timeline   Pulitzer Article:  https://www.pulitzer.org/article/i-sent-them-good-boy-and-they-made-him-murderer   Four Hours in My Lai (film):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NwnnLnvQYA   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver    

This week we discuss kidfluencers, exploring the ethical implications and parental responsibilities associated with children in the digital entertainment space. We look at the complexities surrounding child influencers, the psychological impacts on children, and the dilemmas faced by parents.  Links: Mom Uncharted: https://www.momuncharted.com/ Bad Influence: The Darkside of Kidfluencing https://www.netflix.com/title/81728889 Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke https://press.hulu.com/shows/devil-in-the-family-the-fall-of-ruby-franke/ Kidfluencers: https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/kidfluencers/umc.cmc.7iou8l4mc4jufv51a0k3sxera Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, we look at the life of Jayne Mansfield, 1950s Hollywood icon and proto-influencer. We explore her rise to fame, her branding and marketing savvy, her complex relationships, her tragic death, and her enduring impact on celebrity culture.   Links:   Jayne Mansfield and the American Fifties:   https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Martha-Saxton/dp/0553025562   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

This week's episode provides a sneak peek into the kind of content we'll offer on our upcoming Patreon. Our producer, Tim, interviews us as we revisit the Dubai Porta Potty Parties episode together. Join us as we discuss our favorite moments from the Porta Potty episode, our worthless college degrees, youthful mischief, and much much more.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This week we discuss the heartbreaking case of Gabriel Fernandez, an eight-year-old boy from Palmdale, California, who was brutally abused and murdered by his mother, Pearl Fernandez, and her boyfriend, Isauro Aguirre, in 2013. We explore the systemic failures that allowed the abuse to continue despite multiple reports from family, Gabriel's teacher, and a security guard.    Links:   The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez:  https://www.netflix.com/title/80220207   Murder In America: The Torture and Murder of 8-Year-Old Gabriel Fernandez:   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-99-california-the-torture-and-murder-of-8/id1547409175?i=1000600169959   Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline:  https://www.childhelphotline.org/   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

This week we explore Dubai porta potty parties, where influencers and Only Fans models are allegedly paid exorbitant sums for degrading acts. We discuss addiction, porn's cultural impact, and Dana's experience in the adult industry. This episode (trigger warning: graphic content) mixes humor, horror, and introspection—perfect for those with an iron stomach and a taste for the bizarre. Listener discretion is advised.       Links:   Article about Only Fans model Maria Kovalchuk:   https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/onlyfans-model-found-on-side-of-the-road-with-broken-spine-report/   Medium article by Gal Darrash:   https://medium.com/@galdarrash/the-dubai-porta-potty-is-the-end-product-of-the-digital-crisis-b644090a379e   The Biology of Desire: Why Addiction Is Not a Disease:   https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/237880/the-biology-of-desire-by-marc-lewis/9780385682305   The Fit Mind Podcast featuring Donald Hilton MD:   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fitmind-podcast-mental-fitness-neuroscience/id1461518124?i=1000484919097   Ways to get help for porn addiction:   NoFap Reboot Nation Your Brain On Porn Fight The New Drug   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

This week we discuss the Casey Anthony case and her emergence as a TikToking, Substacking legal advocate. Rather than rehashing the trial, we speculate on what drives Casey's audacity and apparent lack of remorse, drawing parallels to psychopathy and narcissism. We examine her family dynamics, the infamous 911 call, and the chilling Firefox search history (including "foolproof suffocation") that the prosecution overlooked. Was Caylee's death an accident or a calculated act by a mother who saw her child as an obstacle? We wrestle with these questions, blending behavioral analysis with personal reflections on compassion, forgiveness, and the limits of understanding someone who seems "reptilian" in nature. Links: Coach Steph's website: https://stephanielicata.com/meet-stephanie Nancy Grace, like a dog with a bone: https://nypost.com/2025/03/07/us-news/casey-anthony-new-legal-advocate-career-called-out-by-nancy-grace/ Casey's Substack: https://substack.com/@therealcaseyanthony Psychololgy Today Article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/spycatcher/201107/the-not-so-obvious-lessons-from-the-casey-anthony-trial Psychopaths are capable of empathy: https://bigthink.com/neuropsych/dark-triad/ Television Documentaries: Casey Anthony: Where the Truth Lies https://www.peacocktv.com/watch/asset/tv/casey-anthony-where-the-truth-lies/8263985552066829112?orig_ref=https://www.google.com/ Casey Anthony's Parents: The Lie Detector Test https://www.hulu.com/series/casey-anthonys-parents-the-lie-detector-test-b02e99c1-8c67-4f0d-9885-f7e7e245e8ab Casey Anthony's Parents Speak https://www.aetv.com/specials/casey-anthonys-parents-speak   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

This week we discuss Eli Roth's Hostel and Hostel: Part II, exploring the films' subversive take on class, power, and the "Elite Hunting Club" where rich predators torture unsuspecting travelers. From Paxton's revenge in the first film to Beth's brutal escape in the second, we unpack horror's cultural commentary, touching on the abject, dehumanization, and real-world parallels like the depravity of Diddy and Jeffrey Epstein. We also reflect on Eli Roth's genius, humor, and how much we both enjoyed these films. Both films feel like special gifts to horror film fans. Shannon shares her unpopular take that Hostel Part III is not that bad. Links: Hostel IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0450278/ Hostel: Part II IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0498353/   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, Dana and Shannon explore the complexities of modern pornography and sites like Only Fans, particularly focusing on Lily Phillips and Bonnie Blue. They discuss the implications of sex work, the ethical dilemmas surrounding pornography, and Dana shares her personal reflections on her experiences in the industry.  Links: The Case Against the Sexual Revolution: https://www.wiley.com/en-us/The+Case+Against+the+Sexual+Revolution-p-9781509550005 Article about the book: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2022/jun/06/the-case-against-the-sexual-revolution-by-louise-perry-review-an-act-of-insurrection-a-new-guide-to-sex-in-the-21st-century   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode, Dana and Shannon discuss the Kassenoff case, a highly contentious divorce and custody battle that highlights issues of parental alienation, abuse, and the complexities and of the family court system. They explore the dynamics between Catherine and Allan Kassenoff, their treatment of their children, and the implications of their actions on the family. The conversation delves into the systemic failures within family courts and the challenges faced by parents in custody disputes. This conversation delves into the complex and tragic story of a custody battle that culminated in assisted suicide, exploring themes of family dynamics, media representation, and the emotional turmoil faced by all involved. The hosts discuss the psychological implications of parental conflict on children, the role of social media in amplifying personal tragedies, and the challenges of forgiveness within family relationships.  Links: The Free Press article about the case: https://www.thefp.com/p/a-wifes-revenge-from-beyond-the-grave Kassenoff files Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1ZitsXgychSTNxN4FXFjjoip93w4E6EaN?direction=a Pegasos Clinic article: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13627445/Inside-bleak-Swiss-suicide-clinic-industrial-estate-Catherine-Kassenoff.html Article about Allan Kassenoff's case against TikToker Robbie Harvey: https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/former-biglaw-partner-settles-defamation-suit-against-social-media-influencer#google_vignette Perfumes we love! https://olofragrance.com/ Dark Wave and Maisoru https://www.universal---flowering.com/ Daddy + Saffron Flour https://www.bykilian.com/ Black Phantom - 'Memento Mori' https://www.byredo.com/us_en/perfume/ Gypsy Water   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver

Hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers discuss the films The Substance and Promising Young Woman, exploring themes of feminism, The Gothic, biblical imagery, and the social pressures faced by women as they age.  Links: The Substance IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt17526714/ Promising Young Woman IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9620292/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1 Men, Women, and Chain Saws: Gender in the Modern Horror Film by Carol Clover: https://press.princeton.edu/books/paperback/9780691166292/men-women-and-chain-saws Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman M.D. https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/judith-lewis-herman-md/trauma-and-recovery/9780465061716/?lens=basic-books          

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers discuss the adult industry, focusing on the tragic case of Stephen Clancy Hill, a lesser-known male performer (a "mope") who committed a violent crime. They discuss the implications of his actions, the treatment of male performers in the industry, and the absurdity of porn highlighting the issue of addiction and the human search for meaning in seemingly meaningless pursuits. Links: Articles about Stephen Clancy Hill: https://www.salon.com/2010/06/09/stephen_hill_porns_lost_boys/ https://www.salon.com/2010/06/07/porn_star_murder/ https://www.laweekly.com/porn-machete-murder/ An article about psychology and The Absurd: https://english.elpais.com/health/2024-10-03/a-psychoanalyst-in-search-of-the-logic-of-the-absurd.html Bukkake: https://www.dictionary.com/e/slang/bukkake/ Stiffed: The Betrayal of the American Man https://www.amazon.com/Stiffed-Betrayal-American-Susan-Faludi/dp/0380720450 Mope: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6927492/ Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram: @secretpassagepodcast Twitter: @secretpasspod  Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver    

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers explore the tragic case of Lindsay Clancy, a mother charged with the murder of her three children, and the complexities surrounding postpartum psychosis. They explore the nuances of mental health, societal expectations of motherhood, and the stigma that often prevents women from seeking help. The conversation also touches on the case of Andrea Yates and emphasizes the need for better awareness and support for maternal mental health issues.  Links: Rachael Watters - Understanding Postpartum Psychosis Ted Talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qgV7Yug-xs Information on Perinatal Mental Health conditions: https://www.postpartum.net/perinatal-mental-health/ Case timeline: https://www.boston.com/news/crime/2023/02/21/lindsay-clancy-timeline-duxbury-mother-mental-health-treatment/

In this episode, Dana and Shannon discuss the controversial BDSM-focused pornographic website Insex.com and its founder Brent Scott. Themes of pain, suffering, empathy, power dynamics, and the impact of financial reward on consent are examined. Links: Insex Wiki Page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insex Graphic Sexual Horror IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1326224/?ref_=vp_vi_tt Variety review of the film, Graphic Sexual Horror: https://variety.com/2009/film/reviews/graphic-sexual-horror-1200475386/ Vice article about BDSM and therapeutic effects: https://www.vice.com/en/article/bsdm-can-provide-profound-healing-experiences/ Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram: @secretpassagepodcast Twitter: @secretpasspod  Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver  

In this episode, Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers discuss the tragic story of Diane Schuler, who caused a fatal car crash while driving under the influence. They discuss the normalization of alcohol in society, the complexities of addiction, and the harsh criticism faced by individuals in the public eye. Through the lens of Diane Schuler's tragic story, the discussion highlights the importance of understanding the underlying issues of addiction, the stigma surrounding it, and the necessity of asking for help. The conversation emphasizes that pain can serve as valuable information, and that the consequences of hiding one's struggles can lead to devastating outcomes.    Links: There's Something Wrong with Aunt DIane: https://play.max.com/movie/d873ef0d-ff3b-464c-abd3-8b0d69fa0b6a   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram: @secretpassagepodcast Twitter: @secretpasspod  Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers Producer: Tim Rogers Editor: Mitch Silver  

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers discuss the infamous Enumclaw horse sex case, exploring the themes of bestiality/zoophilia, animal ethics, and the psychological motivations behind sexual behaviors. The conversation raises critical questions about consent, morality, and the societal implications of human-animal relationships, ultimately reflecting on the broader ethical considerations surrounding animal exploitation and human desires.    Links: The film Zoo: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0874423/ Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer Article about Alain Delon: https://www.theguardian.com/film/article/2024/aug/20/alain-delon-family-refuse-to-put-down-dog-actor-wished-to-be-buried-with