Malice in the Mitten

In this episode of Round Robin, Tracy Preston and the crew dive into the strange world of nightmares — where sleep science, medieval folklore, psychology, and the supernatural all collide. From the eerie origin of the word “nightmare” to old beliefs about demons sitting on sleeping chests, recurring dreams, teeth falling out, shadow people, sleep paralysis, and the shared nightmare experiences humans have reported across cultures, this mosaic episode explores why the mind terrifies itself after dark. Plus, the Woman of the Week honors Mary Shelley, the brilliant author of Frankenstein, whose own waking nightmare helped shape horror and science fiction forever. #RoundRobinPodcast #Nightmares #SleepParalysis #MaryShelley #MaliceInTheMitten Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan and Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston

Janet Chandler was 22 years old. A student, a musician, and a young woman searching for her place in the world. In 1979, her life was taken in Holland, Michigan—and for nearly 30 years, no one was held accountable. This episode of Malice in the Mitten examines Janet’s life, the environment surrounding the Blue Mill Inn, and the group dynamics that led to one of Michigan’s most disturbing cold cases. When a college documentary reopened the investigation decades later, the silence finally began to break. This is Janet’s story—told with care, clarity, and respect. Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan. Story researched and written by Tracy Preston Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston #JanetChandler #TrueCrimePodcast #MichiganTrueCrime #ColdCaseSolved #JusticeForJanet Sources: 28 Years Later, Justice for Slain Student.” CBS News, 13 Mar. 2007. McVicar, Brian. “Janet Chandler Murder Case Revisited.” MLive. “Cold Case: Janet Chandler.” The Legal News. Who Killed Janet Chandler? Directed by David Schock, Hope College, 2004. “Documentary Examines Murder of Student.” Hope College News Archive, 2004. “Student Documentary Reopens Murder Investigation.” Hope College News, 2004.

A chilling Michigan legend rooted in real tragedy. In 1922, the Dudgeon family became the center of a brutal and controversial case involving poison, staged death, and forced confessions. But the story didn’t end in the courtroom. Over time, rumor turned to legend—and Alice Dudgeon became something more than human in the eyes of the community. Locals still whisper about Dudgeon Swamp near White Cloud, where strange sightings, eerie silence, and a watching presence have kept the story alive for over a century. Was she truly a witch… or the victim of fear, rumor, and injustice? This is F-Bomb Friday—where folklore, fiction, and fear collide in the shadows of Michigan. #FBombFriday #MichiganLegends #TrueCrimeMeetsFolklore #DudgeonSwamp #UrbanLegend Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Todd Preston Researched and Written by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for F-Bomb by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Sources: https://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/2010/08/looking_back_meda_hodell_freed.html https://www.iheart.com/podcast/966-true-crime-historian-29291150/episode/the-white-cloud-rolling-pin-murder-143038959/ https://www.buzzsprout.com/1387693/9533557/transcript https://thepostcalvin.com/to-find-the-place-where-spirits-romp-head-to-white-clouds-dungeon-swamp/  

Main character energy explained, are you living your life or just reacting, psychology of identity and self perception, The Truman Show meaning and breakdown, Amelia Earhart story and legacy, The Hunting Wives Netflix summary cast episodes, how to take control of your life, thought provoking podcast discussion, Round Robin podcast episode. Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan, Angela Hoefler and my husband Todd Preston Music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston

A respected Detroit neurosurgeon. A private life. A trusted connection that turned deadly. In April 2023, Dr. Devon Hoover was found murdered inside his historic Boston-Edison home—shot and hidden within the very walls he built his life around. What began as a missing person case quickly unraveled into a complex investigation involving digital evidence, financial activity, and a relationship that raised more questions than answers. In this episode of Malice in the Mitten, we take a deep, respectful dive into the life of Dr. Hoover, the timeline of his disappearance, and the investigation that led to Desmond Burks—a man he knew. This is not a story of randomness. This is a story about access, trust, and the devastating consequences when both are exploited. #TrueCrimePodcast #MaliceInTheMitten #DevonHoover #DetroitCrime #TrueCrimeCommunity  Produced and Hosted by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan. Researched and written by Tracy Preston Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Sources: Detroit Free Press. Coverage of Dr. Devon Hoover homicide investigation and arrest. WDIV ClickOnDetroit. Case updates and sentencing reporting. People Magazine. Investigative summary of relationship and arrest details. Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. Official sentencing release (2026). Fox 2 Detroit. Coverage of financial activity and investigation.  

What if the monster in the closet isn’t a monster at all… but something searching? In this chilling final installment of our Cryptid Submission Series, we bring to life The Gribble—an ancient, subterranean species driven by instinct, memory, and an obsession with gold. From Aboriginal warnings in the Australian Outback to terrifying encounters in Michigan homes, a pattern begins to emerge. Closets. Children. Missing objects. Gold dust. Is it hunting… or trying to reclaim something lost? Because if the stories are true… it may not want you. It may want what you’re hiding. #FbombFriday #TheGribble #Cryptid #Folklore #MonsterInTheCloset  Special thank you Jenna Catallo for dreaming up and submitting this cryptid for our contest!   Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Todd Preston. Original artwork and lore created by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for F-Bomb by Tracy Preston

What happens when innovation moves faster than safety? In this episode of Round Robin, we explore pioneering failures—the moments where ambition, risk, and breakthrough ideas collided with devastating consequences. From the tragic story of Titan submersible and the ambitions of OceanGate, to historical disasters like the Hindenburg disaster, we ask the hard question: Where is the line between innovation and irresponsibility? We also highlight the legacy of Valentina Tereshkova—a pioneer who faced the same risks, but changed history in the process#OceanGate #TitanSubmersible #Hindenburg #EngineeringFailures #RiskVsReward Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan, and Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston  

Henry Lee Lucas was once labeled the most prolific serial killer in American history—confessing to over 600 murders across the United States. But as investigators began to verify his claims, the story unraveled into one of the most disturbing failures in modern criminal justice. In this episode of Malice in the Mitten, we take a deep dive into the life of Henry Lee Lucas—from a childhood marked by abuse and neglect to the creation of a myth that helped close hundreds of unsolved cases. We examine his relationship with Ottis Toole, the role of the Texas Rangers, and how confessions became a tool that blurred the line between truth and fiction. At the center of it all is Debra Louise Jackson—once known only as “Orange Socks”—a victim whose story reminds us that behind every confession is a real person who deserves the truth. This is not just a story about a killer. It’s a story about what happens when the system chooses answers over accuracy. #TrueCrimePodcast #MaliceInTheMitten #HenryLeeLucas #ConfessionKiller #TrueCrimeStories Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan Researched and written by Tracy Preston Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Sources: Cox, Clifford L., et al. The Confession Killer: The True Story of Henry Lee Lucas. Texas Monthly Press. Texas Department of Public Safety. Reports on Henry Lee Lucas investigations. National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs). “Debra Louise Jackson Identification Report.” The Innocence Project. False Confession Case Studies. Texas Monthly. Investigative reporting on the Lucas confessions.

Deep in the forests of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, there are places where hunters refuse to go… and stories that refuse to die. In this chilling episode, we explore the legend of the Mothdigo—a terrifying cryptid said to stalk from above, watching, judging, and punishing those who take too much from the wild. Blending elements of the Wendigo and Mothman, the Mothdigo is more than folklore—it’s a warning whispered through generations. From vanished hunters to eerie logging camp disappearances, the stories all point to one truth: something is waiting in the trees. Is it myth… or something far older? Featuring an original cryptid concept from Jezebel Michelle Creations, brought to life through dark storytelling, Michigan folklore, and cinematic narration. If you love cryptids, urban legends, Michigan mysteries, and stories that linger long after the episode ends… this one is for you. #FBombFriday #MaliceInTheMitten #StorytellingPodcast #Mothdigo  Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for F-Bomb by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Sound effects from Uppbeat: owls-hooting-in-forst-long-felix-blume-1-00-12.mp3 / explosion-land-mine-gamemaster-audio-1-00-02.mp3 / car-engine-rev-epic-stock-media-2-2-00-05.mp3  

What happens when a bank vault sits unopened for over 100 years? In this episode of Round Robin, we explore the mystery of lost Habsburg jewels, forgotten fortunes, and unclaimed wealth tied to the collapse of empires after World War I. From royal treasures and hidden bank accounts to modern-day discoveries, we dive into the question—who really owns history? Join us for a fun, thought-provoking discussion filled with real-world mysteries, ethical dilemmas, and a little bit of chaos. #RoundRobinPodcast #HiddenFortune #LostTreasure #Habsburg #HistoryMystery Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan, and of course my husband Todd Preston Music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston

Michigan-born serial killer Aileen Wuornos is often remembered as one of the most infamous female killers in American history—but her story is far more complex than headlines suggest. In this episode of Malice in the Mitten, we take a deep, unflinching look at Wuornos’ life—from a childhood marked by abandonment, abuse, and survival… to the Florida highway murders that shocked the nation. Was Aileen Wuornos a calculated predator… or a woman shaped by trauma who killed in self defense? We examine the victims, the investigation, the controversial role of Tyria Moore, and the psychological patterns that continue to divide experts today. This is not a story of excuses.  This is a story of understanding. #MaliceInTheMitten #AileenWuornos #TrueCrime #SerialKiller #FemaleSerialKiller  This episode was co-written by Tracy Preston and Rebecca Hiers. Hosted and produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Sources: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/135451830/leo_arthur-pittman https://www.google.com/search?q=explosive+personality+disorder&rlz=1C1HKFL_enUS1196US1196&oq=explosive+person&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBwgAEAAYgAQyBwgAEAAYgAQyBggBEEUYOTIHCAIQABiABDIHCAMQABiABDIHCAQQABiABDIHCAUQABiABDIHCAYQABiABDIHCAcQABiABDIHCAgQABiABDIHCAkQABiABNIBCDM4OTRqMGo3qAIIsAIB8QVJlQI4BSNFUw&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8 https://www.grunge.com/342800/the-true-story-of-serial-killer-aileen-wuornos/ https://archive.org/details/onkillingday00kenn/page/24/mode/2up?q=keith https://www.aetv.com/articles/aileen-wuornos https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aileen_Wuornos#:~:text=In%201976%2C%20Wuornos%20hitchhiked%20to,within%20weeks%20of%20the%20marriage. https://people.com/who-is-aileen-wuornos-adoptive-mom-11842322 https://www.crimeandinvestigation.co.uk/crime-files/aileen-wuornos Douglas, John, and Mark Olshaker. Mindhunter: Inside the FBI’s Elite Serial Crime Unit. Scribner, 1995. Russell, Sue. Lethal Intent: The Shocking True Story of One of America’s Most Notorious Female Serial Killers. Pinnacle Books, 2001. Berry-Dee, Christopher. Talking with Serial Killers: The Most Evil People in the World Tell Their Own Stories. John Blake Publishing, 2007. Aileen: Queen of the Serial Killers. Netflix, 2021. Federal Bureau of Investigation. “Serial Murder.” FBI.gov. Biography. “Aileen Wuornos Biography.” Court TV. “The Trials of Aileen Wuornos.” The New York Times. Coverage of the Aileen Wuornos case (1991–2002).

Michigan holds its secrets in the places where land and water blur— in swamps, lakes, and forests where silence doesn’t feel natural. For decades, people have reported the same thing: a creature that moves through water and woods with unnatural speed… and emits a sound that doesn’t just echo—it disables. They call it The RazorFin Howler. From Dead Stream Swamp to Higgins Lake, witnesses describe glowing eyes, blade-like fins, and a howl so disorienting… those who hear it fully are never seen again. #Cryptid #MichiganMysteries #ScaryStories #HorrorTok #ContestWinner Cryptid Inspired by Sindee Nyte of Creep'n It Real - Contest Winner Brought to life by Todd Preston Hosted and produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Todd Preston

What started as a quiet night around a bonfire quickly turned into something much bigger. After spotting multiple moving lights in the sky, we found ourselves asking—what are we really looking at? Satellites, space travel, and the reality of what happens beyond Earth quickly became the focus of the conversation. In this episode of Round Robin, we explore how astronauts return to Earth, the difference between space shuttle landings and modern splashdowns, and what really happens to the human body in zero gravity—including muscle loss, bone density changes, and recovery after returning home. We also dive into personal stories of unexplainable moments, ask whether we would actually go to space, and honor Christa McAuliffe, a teacher who inspired millions to look up and wonder. From curiosity to reality… this conversation goes further than we expected. #RoundRobinPodcast #SpaceMystery #NightSky #Satellites #Curiosity Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina and Mulligan and of course my husband Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston

H.H. Holmes, America’s first serial killer, built a hotel designed for murder during the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. With ties to Michigan through his medical training, this episode of Malice in the Mitten explores the truth behind the Murder Castle, the victims, and the psychology of one of history’s most calculated killers. #MaliceInTheMitten #HHHolmes #TrueCrimePodcast #SerialKillers Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan Original Artwork by Todd Preston Original Music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Sources: Larson, Erik. The Devil in the White City. Crown, 2003. Schechter, Harold. Depraved. Ballantine Books, 1994. Chicago Historical Society. “H.H. Holmes and the World’s Fair.” University of Michigan Archives. “Medical School Records, 1800s.” Federal Court Records, 1895–1896 (Holmes Trial Documentation)

A chilling Michigan cryptid story unfolds along the shores of Lake Superior. The legend of the Gitche Gumee Rockhound—an eerie, stone-like creature said to stalk Yooperlite hunters in the dark—blurs the line between folklore and reality. From 1800s miner journals to modern encounters, this F-Bomb Friday episode dives into one of Michigan’s most unsettling and little-known cryptids. If you’ve ever walked the Superior shoreline at night… you may not have been alone. #MichiganCryptids #LakeSuperior #Yooperlites #CryptidStory #FolkLoreFriday Gitche Gumee Rockhound imagined by Taebin Rice, brought to life by Todd Preston Hosted and produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Todd Preston Lore created by Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for F-bomb by Tracy Preston  

In this episode of Round Robin, we dive into the weird realities of modern life, hilarious adulting fails, and a thought-provoking question: would you trade everything for success if it meant losing everyone you love? Then, we shift into a powerful Women of the Week spotlight on Henrietta Lacks—the woman whose cells changed modern medicine forever… without her knowledge or consent. We close with Round Robin Recommendations featuring Alias Grace on Netflix, a haunting story of a woman navigating survival, truth, and perception in the 1800s. Real conversation. Real laughs. And a story that stays with you. #RoundRobinPodcast #WomenInHistory#HenriettaLacks#HeLaCells Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan and Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston

John List was a devoted father, a churchgoing man, and a respected accountant—or so it seemed. In 1971, inside a sprawling New Jersey mansion, he murdered his entire family, then disappeared without a trace. For nearly two decades, he built a new life under a different name—until one broadcast brought everything crashing down. In this episode of Malice in the Mitten, we examine the chilling case of John List—a Michigan-connected killer whose obsession with control, faith, and appearances led to one of the most disturbing family annihilation cases in American history. This is a story of deception, psychological unraveling, and the terrifying question: How far can someone go… and still believe they were right? Written by Rebecca Hiers Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston #JohnList #FamilyAnnihilator #TrueCrimeCase #UnsolvedMysteries #AmericasMostWanted Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_List_(murderer) https://crimelibrary.org/notorious_murders/family/list/ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ytf-jsWEL6Ry5tuIh3ZC4O9DlTaJf-5NRmqzJZrW_L0/edit?tab=t.0 https://thewestendmuseum.org/history/era/immigrant-neighborhood/h-h-holmes/ https://capitalpunishmentincontext.org/cases/wuornos https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/25511539/john_emil-list https://fatherwantsusdead.com/gallery/ https://medium.com/@nightmarehousespod/the-legacy-of-breeze-knoll-an-architectural-gem-with-a-dark-history-2863efc0561d https://www.upi.com/Archives/1990/04/05/Sister-in-law-Accused-family-killer-dominated-by-bedridden-wife/2883639288000/ https://scholar.lib.vt.edu/VA-news/ROA-Times/issues/1990/rt9003/900329/03290654.htm  

In the quiet, rolling landscape of Michigan’s Irish Hills, something strange was happening. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, residents reported chilling encounters—blinding lights in the sky, missing time, and memories of being taken. Were these isolated incidents… or part of something larger? Tonight on F-Bomb, we explore the abduction phenomenon that turned a peaceful Michigan region into a hotspot for unexplained encounters. From firsthand accounts to patterns that are hard to ignore, this is a story that blurs the line between folklore… and something far more unsettling. #MaliceInTheMitten #FBombPodcast #MichiganMysteries #IrishHills #AlienAbduction #UFOEncounter Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Todd Preston Researched and Written by Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for F-Bomb by Tracy Preston Sources: https://aadl.org/aa_news_19950516-emu_sociologist_examines_reports https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alien_abduction https://www.irishtimes.com/news/science/a-likely-explanation-for-alien-abductions-1.2408585 https://www.nicap.org/chronos/1994fullrep.htm  

Spring Break chaos meets real-life laughs in this episode of Round Robin. Tracy joins Christine, and Nina in Florida for a hilarious, unfiltered conversation about Spring Break, TikTok hobbies, and the joy of simply being together. Between the laughter, the crew honors Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, and wraps with must-watch recommendations including Inventing Anna on Netflix. Lighthearted, spontaneous, and full of personality—this is Round Robin at its best. #RoundRobinPodcast #SpringBreakVibes #PodcastLife #FunnyPodcast #WomenInHistory #ClaraBarton #AmericanRedCross Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine & Nina Mulligan Original Music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Sound Effects from Upbeat: wine-pour-in-glass-om-fx-1-00-07.mp3  

Paula Sladewski, a 26-year-old Michigan woman, vanished after leaving Miami’s Club Space during a New Year’s weekend trip. Hours later, her burned body was found in a North Miami dumpster. In this episode of  Malice in the Mitten, we examine Paula’s final known movements, the argument with her boyfriend Kevin Klym, the surveillance footage, the suspect sketch, and the questions that still remain in this haunting unsolved case. Major public reporting consistently places Paula leaving Club Space around 7:20–7:21 a.m. on January 3, 2010, with her body later identified through dental records after being found in a burning dumpster. #MaliceInTheMitten #PaulaSladewski #TrueCrimePodcast #MichiganTrueCrime #UnsolvedMurder   Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan Story Researched and Written by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preson Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Sources: Harry, Ayana. “Charred Body of Playboy Model Paula Sladewski Found in Miami Dumpster.” ABC News, 7 Jan. 2010.  Harry, Ayana. “Murdered Playboy Model Seen on Nightclub Surveillance Video.” ABC News, 11 Jan. 2010.  “‘I Still Think About It To This Day’: Former Lead Detective On 10-Year-Old Murder Case Of Model Paula Sladewski.” CBS Miami, 7 Feb. 2020.  Miller, Carlin. “Paula Sladewski Pictures: Murdered Playboy Model’s Lover Kevin Klym Wanted Over Domestic Violence.” CBS News, 8 Jan. 2010.  “Club Space Says Sketch Isn’t a Staffer.” NBC Miami, 8 Feb. 2010.  Hamacher, Brian. “Bouncer Disputes Boyfriend’s Tale of Model’s Last Moments.” NBC Miami, 19 Mar. 2010.  Cardona, Alexi C. “Who Killed Playboy Model Paula Sladewski in 2010? North Miami Police Still Don’t Know.” Miami New Times, 3 Jan. 2020.   

A chilling Michigan urban legend glides through the darkness… The Phantom Skater is said to appear without warning—silent, swift, and gone before you can understand what you’ve seen. Witnesses describe a lone figure skating across frozen ground, empty streets, and icy paths… even when no ice is there at all. In this episode of F-Bomb: Fables, Fiction, Folklore & Frights, we explore the eerie legend of The Phantom Skater—where folklore meets fear, and the line between imagination and reality begins to blur. Is it residual energy… a spirit replaying its final moments… or something far more unsettling? Some say if you see him… he’s already seen you. #PhantomSkater #MichiganFolklore #UrbanLegends #GhostStories Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Todd Preston Story researched and written by Todd Preston Orignal artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for F-Bomb by Tracy Preston Sources: https://99wfmk.com/phantom-skater-hickory-creek-michigan/ https://www.tvi.show/nexus/the-chilling-legend-of-michigans-phantom-skater-a-halloween-horror-story https://berrienhistory.org Sound effects from. Uppeat: ice-skater-skidding-to-stop-fascinnatedsound-1-00-02.mp3

What do secret societies, Elizabethan ruff collars, and plague doctors have in common? Power. In this episode of Round Robin, we explore the strange, fascinating, and sometimes bizarre ways humans have signaled status, control, and belonging throughout history. From hidden societies operating in secrecy to fashion that literally controlled behavior, this episode dives into how power has always been displayed—whether hidden or impossible to ignore. Plus, we introduce our new segment: 100 Women Who Changed the World, featuring Alice Ball — a brilliant chemist whose life-saving work was nearly lost to history. #RoundRobinPodcast #WeirdHistory #SecretSocieties #ElizabethanEra #HistoricalFashion Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan, Angela Hoefler and of course my husband Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston Sources: “Eleusinian Mysteries.” Encyclopaedia Britannica. Daftary, Farhad. The Assassin Legends. “Knights Templar.” History.com. “Ruff.” Victoria and Albert Museum. Hunt, Alan. Sumptuary Law History. Byrne, Joseph P. Daily Life during the Black Death. Parascandola, John. “Alice Ball and Chaulmoogra Oil.” National Library of Medicine. “Alice Augusta Ball.” Full source list available upon request

The Black Hand was America’s first wave of organized crime—and it reached Michigan. In this episode of Malice in the Mitten, we uncover the hidden history of Black Hand extortion, threat letters, bombings, and the immigrant communities caught in the crosshairs. From Detroit to Saginaw, this forgotten chapter reveals how fear spread long before the Mafia had a name. Historical Note: Due to limited documentation and underreporting of Black Hand activity in early 20th-century Michigan, some narrative elements in this episode are reconstructed based on documented patterns, known tactics, and historical context. #TrueCrimePodcast #MichiganTrueCrime #MaliceInTheMitten #BlackHand #CrimeHistory Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston Researched and Written by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Sources: “Black Hand (Extortion).” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Hand_(extortion). Accessed 22 Mar. 2026. “Black Hand.” Encyclopaedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Black-Hand-American-criminal-organization. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026. “Joseph Petrosino.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Petrosino. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026. “100 Years Later: NYPD Legend Is Remembered.” National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, https://nleomf.org/100-years-later-nypd-legend-is/. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026. “The Inspiring Rise and Tragic Fall of the Italian Sherlock Holmes.” The Mob Museum, https://themobmuseum.org/blog/the-inspiring-rise-and-tragic-fall-of-the-italian-sherlock-holmes/. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026. Delaware, Michael. “Some History of the Black Hand in Michigan.” michaeldelaware.com, https://michaeldelaware.com/some-history-of-the-black-hand-in-michigan/. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026. Talty, Stephan. The Black Hand: The Epic War Between a Brilliant Detective and the Deadliest Secret Society in American History. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2017.

A powerful tornado tears through Michigan, sparking a conversation about extreme weather, storm safety, and eyewitness accounts. From there the Round Robin table spins into the unexpected—alligators appearing in unlikely places and the fascinating mythology behind the Chinese Zodiac’s fiery Year of the Fire Horse. #RoundRobinPodcast #TornadoTalk #AlligatorStories #YearOfTheHorse Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, Featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan and of course my husband Todd Preston. Original music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston

On May 27, 2011, Ruth Pyne was found murdered in her Highland Township, Michigan garage—behind a deadbolted door, with no signs of forced entry. Her son, Jeffrey Pyne, was convicted of second-degree murder in a case built largely on circumstantial evidence, disputed timelines, and injuries investigators claimed pointed to a weapon. Years later, the case still sparks debate: was justice served, or did reasonable doubt get buried under inference? In this deep-dive episode, Malice in the Mitten examines what the courts said, what the jury decided, and why some still believe Jeffrey Pyne was wrongfully convicted. Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan Story Researched and Written by Tracy Preston Music Created Exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Original Artwork by Todd Preston #MaliceInTheMitten #TrueCrimePodcast #MichiganTrueCrime #OaklandCounty Sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akCAlGABltY People of the State of Michigan v. Jeffrey Bernard Pyne. Michigan Court of Appeals, No. 314684, 29 Jan. 2015. Justia. Pyne, Jeffrey v. Harry, Shirlee. “Opinion & Order Denying Petition for Writ of Habeas Corpus.” United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, Case No. 2:17-cv-10849, filed 19 Oct. 2018. GovInfo. “Valedictorian Murder Trial: Jeffrey Pyne Found Guilty of Killing His Mother.” ABC News, 18 Dec. 2012. “Mother’s Brutal Murder Reveals Dark Family Secrets.” CBS News (48 Hours), 22 June 2014. “Does the Way Ruth Pyne Was Killed Prove Premeditation?” CBS News, 10 Aug. 2013. "MI v. Jeffrey Pyne: Valedictorian Murder Trial.” Court TV Trial Archives.    

Something moves in the woods… and at first glance it looks like a deer. But its legs bend wrong. Its eyes face forward. And sometimes… it walks on two legs. In this episode of F-Bomb Friday, we explore the eerie folklore of the Not-Deer — a creature reported across Appalachia that looks like a deer but behaves like something far more unsettling. #FBombFriday #Folklore #UrbanLegends #Cryptids #NotDeer Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preson Story Researched & Written by Todd Preston Original Artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for F-Bomb by Tracy Preston Sources: https://cryptidz.fandom.com/wiki/Not_Deer https://howlietzer.com/2026/01/28/not-deer/ https://www.mythosjourney.com/encyclopedia/pages/not-deer/index.html https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/not-deer-or-a-deer/ https://haunts.us/cryptids/594/ https://www.reddit.com/r/cryptids/comments/o5goef https://www.reddit.com/r/cryptids/comments/jpgw6w

This week on Round Robin, we spin from ancient legends to modern internet myths. The conversation begins with Michigan’s Nordic Fire Festival in Charlotte before diving into Viking culture, including skalds and kennings, the storytellers who shaped Norse legend. Then we pivot to the strange world of celebrity death hoaxes and online conspiracy theories, exploring why misinformation spreads so quickly in the age of social media. Finally, the table gives their Spin Ratings for two recommendations: the Viking adventure classic The 13th Warrior and the documentary Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy. From Norse lore to viral rumors, this episode is all about how stories—old and new—shape what we believe. Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan and of course my husband Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston #RoundRobinPodcast #VikingHistory  #NorseMythology #NordicFireFestival #CelebrityDeathHoax #The13thWarrior #MatthewPerry

In October 1959, a woman searching for autumn flowers in Mequon, Wisconsin made a devastating discovery — the remains of a small child hidden in a roadside culvert. For decades, the child was known only as Case Number 6426. No name. No identity. No justice. This episode of Malice in the Mitten explores the disappearance of Markku Edward Michael Jutila — born Chester Alfred Brieney — the adoption that changed his life, the parents who fled Michigan, the shocking confession in Chicago, and the 1966 court decision that let them walk free. In 2024, modern DNA testing finally identified the child. Sixty-five years later, he got his name back. This is a story about child abuse, cold case investigation, forensic genealogy, and the limits of justice in the 1960s. Written and researched by Rebecca Hiers Hosted and produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston #TrueCrimePodcast #ColdCase #DNAJustice #ForgottenVictim Sources: https://blogs.mtu.edu/archives/2024/11/23/no-justice-but-peace/ https://blogs.mtu.edu/archives/2024/11/15/he-was-someone/ https://www.findagrave.com/cemetery/805532/memorial-search?firstname=chester&middlename=&lastname=&cemeteryName=Saint+Marys+Cemetery&birthyear=&birthyearfilter=&deathyear=&deathyearfilter=&bio=&linkedToName=&plot=&memorialid=&mcid=&datefilter=&orderby=r https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/276298738/josephine-a-breiney https://images.findagrave.com/photos/2024/318/276425499_7c832625-c428-419e-add3-2c40d6fbb2a8.jpeg https://www.miningjournal.net/news/local/2013/11/century-of-service-to-kids-at-area-orphanage/ https://www.facebook.com/VisitKeweenaw/posts/potters-fields-poor-farmswho-ended-up-at-poor-farms-people-that-were-injured-on-/10157255931740081/ https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/33646468/chester-alfred-breiney

The Smeet Frog of Ypsilanti explores one of Michigan’s strangest local legends — a mysterious creature said to lurk along the shadowed bends of the Huron River. Blending folklore, regional storytelling, and eerie atmosphere, this episode of F-Bomb dives into how myths take root, why strange sightings persist, and what happens when community storytelling turns something small into something unforgettable.   #FbombPodcast #MichiganFolklore #UrbanLegends #CryptidStories #MichiganMysteries #LocalLegends #MichiganPodcast   Hosted and produced by Tracy Preston Story written and researched by Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for F-bomb by Tracy Preston   Ypsilanti District Library — “Smeet” Ypsi’s Local Legend A community page from YDL about the Smeet Frog and associated programs. https://www.ypsilibrary.org/2025/08/smeet/⁠   Ann Arbor District Library — Smeet Frog (Ypsilanti Gleanings archive) Photo/description of the Smeet Frog as part of local history. https://aadl.org/ypsigleanings/271047⁠   Ann Arbor District Library — The Smeet Frog Marker Details about the “Smeet Frog” marker on the tridge near Frog Island. https://aadl.org/ypsigleanings/271048⁠   LocalWiki — Smeet Frog Conspiracy Entry on the plaque, myth, and link to an old site. https://localwiki.org/ann-arbor/Smeet_Frog_Conspiracy⁠   Ypsilanti Historical Society Publications — Spring 2014 PDF Archived GLS magazine article with early marker lore and historical context. https://ypsihistory.org/publications/spring2014.pdf⁠   Vocal.media — Ypsilanti’s Smeet Frog cryptid overview A general article mentioning the Smeet Frog as local cryptid. https://vocal.media/wander/5-great-things-about-ypsilanti-michigan⁠   Fan wiki entry summarizing the fictional biology and lore. https://creatures-of-myth.fandom.com/wiki/Smeet_Frog⁠   Reddit – Homemade Smeet Frog / community posts Example of community discussion and affection for the Smeet Frog. https://www.reddit.com/r/ypsi/comments/1gjjyiy/⁠   Reddit – Smeet Frog myth explained and old plaque discussion User talk about the plaque on the tridge and local lore. https://www.reddit.com/r/ypsi/comments/zv6pcg/⁠   Reddit – Smeet Fest event at the library Snapshot of the Smeet Frog festival at YDL. https://www.reddit.com/r/ypsi/comments/1n7na9x/⁠

The Winter Olympics are here — and so are the stories you didn’t know. From Jason Statham’s diving career to Vera Wang’s Olympic figure skating dreams, we explore the surprising celebrities who almost made the Games. We dive into wild Olympic facts, Miracle on Ice nostalgia, dream team drafts, and the psychology behind chasing gold. It’s competitive, chaotic, and classic Round Robin fun. #RoundRobinPodcast #WinterOlympics #AlmostOlympian #JasonStatham #VeraWang #GeenaDavis #SalmaHayek #LiamPayne Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan, Angela Hoefler and of course my husband Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Music created Exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston

In 1938 Dollar Bay, Michigan, Wilfred and Loria Pichette confessed to killing Marian Doyle — claiming she was possessed by devils. After multiple family tragedies, economic hardship during the Great Depression, and a scandal involving a pregnant housekeeper, the brutal murder shocked the Upper Peninsula and drew national headlines. Featuring courtroom testimony from a seven-year-old child, this Michigan true crime case explores delusion, domestic violence, religious extremism, and mental illness inside a small mining town. Story Researched and Written by Rebecca Hiers Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan Original music created exclusively for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Sources: https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/ironwood/daily-globe/1930/02-17/page-4 https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/ironwood/daily-globe/1938/10-31/page-7 https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/ironwood/daily-globe/1938/10-27/page-1 https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/ironwood/daily-globe/1938/10-24/page-1 https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/ironwood/daily-globe/1938/10-26/page-2 https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/ironwood/ironwood-daily-globe/1939/02-15/page-14 https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/ironwood/daily-globe/1938/10-31/page-1 https://uplink.nmu.edu/_flysystem/repo-bin/2022-08/nmu_65931.pdf https://michigan.access.preservica.com/uncategorized/IO_dfd81815-8f8f-428e-80e5-bbfeef4bddd9/ https://michigan.access.preservica.com/uncategorized/IO_df64a0fc-86d7-4971-b2b0-ad1dc97d2764/ https://michigan.access.preservica.com/uncategorized/IO_8738f136-0508-43df-96c5-7ca4c04d64b9/ https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-71963-0_19 https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:33SQ-G18M-99HD?view=index&personArk=%2Fark%3A%2F61903%2F1%3A1%3A7T72-3WMM&action=view&cc=1968530&lang=en&groupId= https://michigan.access.preservica.com/uncategorized/IO_75581e4f-a8a0-4c91-a1a9-970bdff1c808  

In the mid-1800s, tragedy struck the Beeson family of Niles, Michigan. After the death of infant grandson Job Withrow Beeson, grief and rumor began to surround the Beeson Mansion and its private mausoleum. Was it truly cursed — or was it simply a family shaped by Victorian mourning and loss? In this episode of F-Bomb, we explore the documented history of Strother Beeson, the family crypt, and the folklore that grew from sorrow. This is a tale of grief, legend, and the thin line between tragedy and haunting. #FBombPodcast #MichiganFolklore #BeesonMansion #VictorianEra #HauntedHistory #MidwestLegends #NilesMichigan Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston. Story Written and Researched by Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original score created exclusively for F-Bomb to refelct the era and emotional tone of this episode by Tracy Preston Sources: Beeson Mansion haunted place overview – Real Haunted Houses (history, mansion and infant’s mausoleum) Beeson Mansion Haunted Place Overview “Most Haunted Places in Michigan” (Beeson Mansion mentions haunted grieving mother) 10 Most Haunted Places in Michigan Michigan paranormal legend details including deposition ritual & lantern accounts Michigan Legends & Folklore – Ghosts of Michigan’s Past Article on crypt and gruesome details of the ritual with eyes falling out Rock‑a‑Bye Baby: Weirdness in this Niles Mausoleum The Grave Talks – Haunted Beeson Mansion and the Spirits That Remain (Part 1) The Grave Talks Part One (Podcast) The Grave Talks – Haunted Beeson Mansion and Spirits That Remain (Part 2) The Grave Talks Part Two (Podcast)

From ancient love potions and mandrake root to modern red flags and relationship psychology, this episode of Round Robin explores the strange things humans have done — and still do — in the name of love. Were love potions real? Did people actually drink them? What’s the difference between harmony and chaos when it comes to attraction? And are we chasing chemistry… or control? Plus, a bold movie recommendation: Gerald’s Game on Netflix — a psychological thriller that challenges power, consent, and survival in relationships. Love has always been complicated. We just have better lighting now. #RoundRobinPodcast #LovePsychology. #LoveHistory #AttractionScience #ModernDating #GeraldsGame Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston, featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan and of course my husband Todd Preston! Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created exclusively for Round Robin by Tracy Preston

In May of 1979 31-year-old nurse and mother Jane Snow was driving north with her two young sons toward a new beginning in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She stopped at the Loon Lake rest area near Grayling — a familiar halfway point. She never made it home. Stabbed 22 times in broad daylight, with no robbery, no assault, and no witnesses, Jane’s murder remains unsolved nearly five decades later. Who killed her — and how did they disappear without being seen? In this episode of Malice in the Mitten, we share a powerful narrative written by Rebecca Hiers, honoring Jane’s life and the questions that still linger. If you have information about this case, contact the Michigan State Police, Grayling Post at 989-348-5449. Michigan true crime told with care. Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston Featuring Christine Mulligan. Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Sources: https://www.proquest.com/hnpmichigancollection/docview/2092913320/13D4A2BD7956458FPQ/2?accountid=12091&sourcetype=Newspapers https://infoweb-newsbank-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/apps/news/document-view?p=AMNEWS&t=&sort=YMD_date%3AD&hide_duplicates=2&fld-base-0=alltext&maxresults=60&val-base-0=%22jane%20snow%22%20rest%20area%20murder&docref=news/13B156E745C91440 https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/22778293/jane-snow https://www.proquest.com/hnpmichigancollection/docview/2092926532/79BF2E5466BC410CPQ/9?accountid=12091&sourcetype=Newspapers https://www.proquest.com/hnpmichigancollection/docview/2092926532/79BF2E5466BC410CPQ/9?accountid=12091&sourcetype=Newspapers   https://websleuths.com/threads/mi-jane-snow-31-otsego-county-15-may-1979.230064/page-2 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1387693/11171207/transcript https://listverse.com/2015/09/21/10-creepy-unsolved-rest-stop-mysteries/ https://www.amazon.com/Unexplained-Michigan-Mysteries-Gary-Barfknecht/dp/1933272066 https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/escanaba/escanaba-daily-press/1979/05-21/page-10 https://access-newspaperarchive-com.eu1.proxy.openathens.net/us/michigan/escanaba/escanaba-daily-press/1984/05-19

In 1914, the Holy Cross Orphanage in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula became the center of disturbing allegations — cruelty, punishment, and children who never seemed to leave. Locals have long whispered about laughter in empty halls… crying behind locked doors… and shadowed figures in the upper windows of the abandoned building. In this episode of F-Bomb (Fables, Fiction, Folklore & Frights), we explore the reported history of the Holy Cross Orphanage, allegations of mistreatment, and the lingering stories of hauntings tied to the children who once lived — and possibly suffered — there. Is it folklore? Is it residual energy? Or is something still hiding in the walls? #FBombPodcast #MichiganFolklore #HauntedMichigan #UpperPeninsula #GhostStories Hosted and produced by Tracy Preston Story researched and written by Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created for F-Bomb by Tracy Preston Sources: Holy Family Orphanage – Wikipedia (history & facts) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Family_Orphanage Holy Family Orphanage on Roadtrippers (history + haunted lore) https://maps.roadtrippers.com/us/marquette-mi/points-of-interest/holy-family-orphanage The 10 Scariest Ghosts That Haunt Michigan’s Shores (includes Holy Cross Orphanage) https://www.wanderingeducators.com/best/top-10/10-scariest-ghosts-haunt-michigans-shores Haunted Places in Michigan — Holy Family Orphanage included https://otenews.com/haunted-places-in-michigan/ Abandoned, Haunted Orphanage Now Apartments (KalamazooCountry.com) https://kalamazoocountry.com/abandoned-haunted-orphanage-in-marquette-is-now-an-apartment-building/ From Tragedies to Triumph – Holy Family Orphanage History & Stories https://witl.com/ixp/691/p/from-tragedies-to-triumph-the-holy-family-orphanage-marquette-michigan/

In this episode of Round Robin, the conversation spans the globe and lands squarely in Michigan. We talk about world population trends and what it means to live on a planet of more than eight billion people, then pivot to some of the weirdest and most wonderful buildings in the Great Lakes State — from mushroom houses to pickle-shaped landmarks. We also celebrate Michigan firsts that helped shape the world, and spotlight incredible local creators and community builders in Lansing!   #RoundRobinPodcast #MichiganPodcasts #LocalVoices #CommunityStories #GreatLakesState #MidwestPodcasts Hosted & Produced by Tracy Preston - Featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mulligan, Angela Hoefer and Todd Preston Original Artwork by Todd Presston Original music created for Round Robin by Tracy Preston

On Halloween afternoon in 1981, eleven-year-old Karl Heikell left his home in Calumet, Michigan — and never returned. What followed was a search filled with conflicting sightings, unanswered questions, and rumors that spread through a small Upper Peninsula community desperate for answers. From abandoned mine shafts to the discovery of Karl’s belongings and remains nearly a year later, investigators struggled to determine what truly happened. This episode examines the known facts, the documented theories, and the haunting uncertainties surrounding the disappearance of Karl Heikell — a case that remains unsolved more than forty years later. Told with care and restraint, this story honors Karl and the family still seeking answers. #MaliceInTheMitten #MichiganTrueCrime #UnsolvedCase Researched and written by Rebecca Hiers Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston Featuring Christine Mulligan Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Sources: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/62bf1e95c67a302bc68441b6/t/65638054ae435d45ec379d2d/1701019733931/petitiontodeterminecauseanddateofdeathindisaster-220409163513-rotated.pdf https://amwfans.com/thread/13064/unknown-karl-heikell-killer-michigan https://www.miroadtrip.com/locations/tamarack-mine https://www.halloween1981.com/archive https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/michigan-librarian-dedicated-41-year-old-halloween-cold-case-n1300369  

Deep underground, long before safety regulations or daylight reached the mines, workers spoke of something else down there with them. In this episode of F-Bomb Friday, we explore the legend of the Tommy Knockers—small, unseen beings said to live inside the walls of mines, warning some workers of collapse while driving others toward paranoia, obsession, and madness. Are the knockers protectors… or something far older and more dangerous? This story sits at the crossroads of folklore, labor history, and psychological horror—where exhaustion, isolation, and belief blur into something terrifyingly real. From whispered warnings to relentless tapping no one could explain, the Tommy Knockers became part of mining culture in Michigan. This is not a monster story. It’s a story about what happens when the earth watches back. #FBombFriday #TommyKnockers #FolklorePodcast #DarkFolklore #FolkHorror Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston Featuring Todd Preston Story researched and written by Todd Preston Music created for F-Bomb by Tracy Preston Sources: https://www.legendsofamerica.com/gh-tommyknockers/ https://www.rockngem.com/tommyknockers-mining-folklore-legends/ https://magazine.cim.org/en/in-search/knock-knock-whos-there/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knocker_(folklore) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cliff_mine https://mythlok.com/knockers/ https://www.wheninyourstate.com/michigan/9-michigan-pasty-facts-every-yooper-should-know/ https://www.cousinjacksemporium.com/cousin-jacks-blog/cornish-knockers

Michigan true crime, told with care. Malice in the Mitten explores criminal cases from across Michigan with restraint, accountability, and respect for victims and communities.

In this episode of Round Robin, we pay homage to comedy icon Catherine O’Hara before diving into the kinds of conversations that only happen when you slow down and get curious. We talk about the things in life that shouldn’t work — but somehow do. The episode closes with a thoughtful question: if you could experience one extraordinary moment just once, what would it be?  #RoundRobinPodcast #CatherineOHara #PopCultureConversations #CuriousMinds Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston  Featuring Christine Mulligan, Nina Mullligan and Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music created for Round Robin by Tracy Preston  

In 1987, two brothers were convicted of murdering a Detroit drug dealer and sentenced to life without parole. For 25 years, Thomas and Raymond Highers maintained their innocence — until a single Facebook post triggered new witnesses and unraveled a decades-old conviction. This episode of Malice in the Mitten examines how tunnel vision, eyewitness testimony, and procedural certainty led to a wrongful conviction — and why freedom, when it finally came, did not bring a clean ending. The murder of Robert “Old Man Bob” Karey remains unsolved. #MaliceInTheMitten #TrueCrimePodcast #WrongfulConviction #Exoneration #CriminalJustice #Detroit #GreatLakesCrime Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston Featuring Christine Mulligan Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music and sound design produced for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Resources: Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) • Text START to 88788 Crisis support: Call/Text 988 Emergency: 911 Sources: National Registry of Exonerations. “Raymond Highers.” Exoneration Registry, updated 6 June 2024, https://www.exonerationregistry.org/cases/11429. National Registry of Exonerations. “Thomas Highers.” Exoneration Registry, updated 6 June 2024, https://www.exonerationregistry.org/cases/11430. Associated Press. “Murder Charges Dismissed Against Highers Brothers.” CBS News Detroit, 26 Sept. 2013, https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/murder-charges-dismissed-against-highers-brothers/. Associated Press. “Brothers Freed After 25 Years in Prison Following Facebook Post.” New Haven Register, 14 Aug. 2012, https://www.nhregister.com/news/article/25-YEARS-IN-PRISON-Brothers-free-after-judge-11523824.php. ABC News. “Detroit Brothers Exonerated in 1987 Drug Murder.” ABC News, 26 Sept. 2013, https://abcnews.go.com/US/detroit-brothers-exonerated-1987-drug-murder/story?id=20384516. Michigan Public. Stateside Staff. “Brothers Could Receive $1.25M Each for Wrongful Conviction: ‘I’d Rather Have the 26 Years Back’.” Michigan Public, 24 Apr. 2017, https://www.michiganpublic.org/law/2017-04-24/brothers-could-receive-1-25m-each-for-wrongful-conviction-id-rather-have-the-26-years-back. WJR-AM. “Sprung from Murder Rap, Back to Slam for Wife-Beating.” WJR, 5 Mar. 2018, https://www.wjr.com/2018/03/05/sprung-from-murder-rap-back-to-slam-for-wife-beating/.

Dice Road, a quiet stretch of pavement in rural Michigan, has earned a reputation as one of the most haunted locations in the state. In this F-Bomb Friday trilogy, we explore the chilling legends, documented encounters, and terrifying stories tied to Dice Road — from shadow figures and phantom children to violent poltergeist activity and homes that refuse to stay silent. These aren’t just campfire stories. This is Michigan folklore that still breathes. #DiceRoad #FBombFriday #MichiganHaunted #MichiganFolklore #HauntedMichigan #CreepyTok #HorrorTok #DarkHistory #MidwestHorror #FolkloreFriday Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston Story researched and written by Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music by Tracy Preston Sources: Dice Road – General History & Haunting Lore Lost In Michigan – Dice Road: Michigan’s Most Haunted Road https://lostinmichigan.net/dice-road/ Only In Your State – Dice Road, Michigan https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/michigan/dice-road-mi/ 99.1 PLR / Local Michigan Lore – Dice Road Hauntings https://99wfmk.com/dice-road-michigan/  Pomeraning House / “Michigan Hell House” Lost In Michigan – The Michigan Hell House (Pomeraning Home) https://lostinmichigan.net/michigan-hell-house/ M Live – Dice Road’s Infamous Hell House https://www.mlive.com/news/jackson/2014/10/dice_road_haunted_house.html Haunted Places – Pomeraning House https://www.hauntedplaces.org/item/pomeraning-house/ Travel Channel – Most Terrifying Places: Dice Road https://www.travelchannel.com/interests/haunted/articles/haunted-dice-road-michigan  Dice Road Cemetery & Anna Rhodes (Millerton) Lost In Michigan – Dice Road Cemetery & Anna Rhodes https://lostinmichigan.net/dice-road-cemetery/ Find A Grave – Anna Rhodes Millerton https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11317983/anna-rhodes-millerton Jackson County Historical Society – Millerton Area Records https://www.jacksonhistorical.org/ Michigan Death Records – Anna Rhodes (1860s) https://michiganology.org/  Anna Rhodes – Ghost Lore & Sightings Haunted America – The Ghost of Anna Rhodes https://www.hauntedamerica.com/anna-rhodes-dice-road/ Paranormal Michigan – Dice Road Cemetery https://www.paranormalmichigan.com/dice-road-cemetery Shadowlands – Dice Road Cemetery https://www.theshadowlands.net/places/michigan.htm  Iva, Michigan – Ghost Town & General Store Lost In Michigan – The Ghost Town of Iva https://lostinmichigan.net/iva-michigan/ Michigan Ghost Towns – Iva (Jackson County) http://www.michiganghosttowns.com/iva.html Jackson County GIS / Historic Maps https://www.mijackson.org/ Library of Michigan – Historic Michigan Townships https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/  Paranormal Investigations & Media Mentions Detroit Paranormal Expeditions – Dice Road Case Files https://www.detroitparanormalexpeditions.com/ Michigan Paranormal Research Society http://www.miparanormal.org/ YouTube (Documented Investigations – Search Term) https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=dice+road+michigan+haunted

From laughing yourself to death to legends that refuse to fade, this episode of Round Robin explores some of history’s strangest endings. We dive into bizarre deaths and the mystery of the 27 Club.  Darkly fascinating, surprisingly human, and just the right amount of spooky, this episode looks at how myth and reality collide. Hosted and produced by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music by Tracy Preston 

In July 1981, a young mother and two children were found murdered inside their Macomb County, Michigan home. Another child survived. More than two years later, the husband and father, Robert Deroo, was charged with three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder — only to be acquitted in 1984. In this episode of Malice in the Mitten, we take a careful, deeply researched look at the Deroo case: who Deborah Deroo was beyond the headlines, what investigators believed happened inside the home, how the trial unfolded, and why the case remains unresolved decades later. This episode includes a survivor respect disclaimer and avoids speculation about individuals who have chosen to live privately. Our focus remains on facts, accountability, and honoring the lives affected. Listener discretion advised.  #MaliceInTheMitten #MichiganTrueCrime #MacombCounty #UnsolvedMichigan #TrueCrimePodcast #ColdCase #1980sCrime #DomesticViolenceAwareness #JusticeAndDoubt Hosted and Produced by Tracy Preston Original Music by Tracy Preston Original Artwork by Todd Preston Sound Effects from Uppbeat: Judge Gavel Knocks by Joshua Chivers Sources: Primary News Coverage: Detroit Free Press. “Macomb Township Man Charged in Slayings of Wife, Children.” Detroit Free Press, Jan. 6, 1984. Newspapers.com. Detroit Free Press. “Deroo Acquitted in Deaths of Wife, Two Children.” Detroit Free Press, June 17, 1984. Newspapers.com. Public Records & Archives: Macomb County Circuit Court Records. People v. Robert Deroo, Case Filings, 1984. Macomb County Sheriff’s Office. Homicide Investigation Records, 1981. Genealogical & Memorial Records: Find a Grave. “Deborah Deroo Memorial.” FindAGrave.com. Find a Grave. “Nathaniel Deroo Memorial.” FindAGrave.com. Find a Grave. “Jessica Deroo Memorial.” FindAGrave.com. Contextual & Ethical Standards: Society of Professional Journalists. SPJ Code of Ethics. SPJ.org.

A dark Michigan urban legend haunts the ruins of Detroit—an apparition known as the Black Nun. Said to roam abandoned convents and church hallways, her presence is marked by silence, cold air, and the feeling of being watched. In this episode of F-Bomb Friday, we explore the origins of the Black Nun of Detroit, the history behind the legend, and why religious folklore continues to cling to the city’s forgotten spaces. This is not a story of monsters. It’s a story of belief, decay, and the things that refuse to stay buried. #FBombFriday #BlackNunOfDetroit #DetroitUrbanLegend #MichiganFolklore #ReligiousHorror #UrbanLegends #HauntedDetroit #MidwestFolklore #TrueCrimeAdjacent #FolklorePodcast Produced and hosted by Tracy Preston Written by Todd Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music by Tracy Preston

From the world’s strangest museums to sports that should never exist, this episode of Round Robin dives headfirst into human curiosity and chaos. We explore some of the most unusual museums on Earth, wildly bizarre sporting events, forgotten and unhinged Olympic history, and real sports injuries that didn’t even happen during the game. We wrap things up with Round Robin Recommendations, including a psychological thriller worth watching this week. Smart, funny, strange, and surprisingly educational — this episode proves that history, sports, and people have always been a little weird. #RoundRobinPodcast#PodcastRecommendations#WeirdHistory #StrangeButTrue#FunFacts#BizarreSports#OlympicHistory#UnusualMuseums Produced and hosted by Tracy Preston Original music by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston

In Part Two of Shadows of Macomb County, we examine the murder of Lisa Putman, a Michigan Child Protective Services worker killed while performing her duties. This episode follows the investigation into her disappearance, the arrest of Jacqueline and Josephine Verellen, and the legacy Lisa left behind — including why social worker safety matters. This is a victim-centered, factual account of a case that changed how risk is understood for frontline social workers in Michigan. #TrueCrime #Michigan #MalliceInTheMitten #MichiganTok #SocialWorkerSafety #CPS #SayHerName #LisaPutman Produced and hosted by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music by Tracy Preston Sources: Twisted Sisters: Murder Is a Filthy Business — Investigation Discovery Macomb County court records, 1998 Michigan Department of Corrections sentencing information Contemporary news reporting on the murder of Lisa Putman Michigan Legislature. House Bill 4099 Analysis: Lisa Putman Memorial Act (2001). Detroit Free Press, May–July 1998. Macomb Daily, trial coverage 1999. National Association of Social Workers Memorial Registry (2002).

Yellow Mike is one of Michigan’s darkest folklore legends — a forgotten asylum patient, a sealed crate, and a being that learned how humans move, breathe, and fear. Some say he escaped. Some say he never existed. Others say he’s still watching.  #FBombFriday #MichiganFolklore #DarkFolklore #MidwestLegends #AmericanFolklore  Story researched and written by Todd Preston Produced and hosted by Tracy Preston Original artwork by Todd Preston Original music by Tracy Preston Sources: https://libraries.udmercy.edu/archives/special-collections/cfa/index.php?field=loc_text&start=150&term=LOCATION+NOT+RECORDED  https://www.michigan.org/property/yankee-springs-recreation-area  https://www.visitgrandrapids.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/gun-lake/  https://www.hastingsmi.org/ 

From towering steel to ancient waters, we’re diving into one of Michigan’s most iconic landmarks — the Mackinac Bridge — and the powerful freshwater system it spans. In this episode of Round Robin, we explore the fascinating history of the bridge, uncover how the Great Lakes got their names, and answer a question many people have never stopped to ask: If Lake Michigan and Lake Huron are connected… why aren’t they the same lake? It’s a conversation filled with surprising history, geography, and Michigan-flavored curiosity — the kind that makes you look at familiar places in a whole new way. #RoundRobinPodcast #MichiganHistory #MackinacBridge #GreatLakes #PureMichigan #CuriousMinds  

Jennifer Kukla | A Michigan Family Betrayal In Michigan, a home is supposed to be a place of safety. For one family, it became something far darker. In the first episode of this series, Malice in the Mitten examines the case of Jennifer Kukla — a story of domestic trust, quiet warning signs, and a crime that unfolded behind closed doors. Through careful research and restrained storytelling, we explore what happened, how it escalated, and the devastating impact left behind. This episode focuses on facts, accountability, and remembering the victims — not glorifying violence, but understanding how it happens and why awareness matters. Listener discretion advised. If you or someone you care about is struggling with mental health, support is available. You can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or in Michigan call the Michigan Crisis and Access Line at 1-844-446-4225. These services are confidential, free, and available 24 hours a day. You don’t have to go through this alone. #MaliceInTheMitten #MichiganTrueCrime #TrueCrimePodcast #TrueCrimeCommunity Researched & Written by: Tracy Preston with Silas Produced by: Tracy Preston Original Artwork: Todd Preston Music & Sound Design: Original compositions created for Malice in the Mitten by Tracy Preston Sources for this episode include Michigan court records, reporting from MLive, Detroit Free Press, and the Associated Press, along with information from the Michigan State Police and the Michigan Department of Corrections. Educational context provided by national domestic violence and mental health organizations.