How Did Mommy Blogger Get Away With Alleged Abusive Behavior For So Long?

Can a person truly be brainwashed to the extent of overlooking the well-being of their own children? This is the central question that Tony Brueski and psychotherapist Shavaun Scott explore in a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," focusing on the complex and disturbing case involving Ruby Franke, Jodi Hildebrandt, and Kevin Franke.   Kevin Franke, Ruby’s husband, now amidst a divorce, has claimed through his attorney that he was brainwashed by Ruby and Jodi’s life coach teachings. He asserts that this manipulation rendered him oblivious to the abuse his children were undergoing. "I was so desperate to get my wife and my children back, I was willing to take anyone's advice," he reportedly said. Brueski and Scott delve into the plausibility of this defense and its implications.   Shavaun Scott, a seasoned psychotherapist, expresses skepticism about the brainwashing claim. She suggests that Kevin's situation is more indicative of a personality flaw marked by extreme passivity, rather than brainwashing typically seen in hostage scenarios or cults. "What Kevin Franke experienced is more, he's incredibly passive and let Ruby make all the big decisions regarding the kids," Scott explains, highlighting the moral failing in Kevin’s lack of initiative as a parent.   The discussion then shifts to the broader issue of the term 'life coach,' a title used by Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt. Scott expresses concern about the unregulated nature of this industry, noting the potential for psychological damage inflicted by unqualified individuals masquerading as professional advisors. "It's a scam. They're peddling snake oil with a lot of psychobabble," she remarks, pointing out the stark contrast between the rigorous training required for licensed mental health clinicians and the lack of oversight in life coaching.   Scott also delves into the insidious tactics employed by these self-proclaimed life coaches, describing how they exploit vulnerable individuals seeking quick fixes for complex issues. She emphasizes the danger of individuals like Hildebrandt, who was even recommended by a church, infiltrating trusted communities and disseminating harmful ideologies under the guise of professional guidance.   The conversation also touches on the changing dynamics within the mental health profession, with technology and other lucrative fields attracting young talent, leaving a gap in the traditional psychotherapy landscape. Scott stresses the demanding nature of the profession and the critical importance of maintaining rigorous standards to ensure public protection.   As the episode concludes, Brueski and Scott reflect on the challenging task of regulating industries like life coaching. While outright banning terms or practices may not be feasible, they agree on the importance of raising public awareness and education to prevent exploitation by unqualified individuals. The Franke-Hildebrandt case, as dissected by Brueski and Scott, sheds light on the complexities of familial dynamics, the blurred lines between influence and neglect, and the dangers lurking in unregulated advisory roles. It serves as a cautionary tale about the lengths to which individuals may go under the influence of toxic relationships and unverified expertise.   In a world where the distinction between genuine help and harmful manipulation is increasingly blurred, how do we safeguard ourselves and our loved ones from falling prey to the hidden killers in our midst? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

14 Dec 202314min

How does one discern the line between being influenced and abdicating personal responsibility, especially when it involves the safety of one's children? This conundrum sits at the heart of the latest episode of "Hidden Killers," where host Tony Brueski and retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke discuss the complex case involving Ruby Franke, Jodi Hildebrandt, and Kevin Franke.    Kevin Franke's role in the case has come under scrutiny following his claim of being brainwashed by the life coaching services offered by his wife Ruby and Jodi Hildebrandt. According to Franke’s attorney, Kevin stated that in his desperation to reunite with his family, he blindly followed the advice of those he believed were professionals. But as Brueski and Dreeke delve deeper into the case, the question arises: Was Kevin truly a victim of brainwashing, or did he display a dangerous level of negligence as a parent?    Dreeke introduces the concept of "toxic codependency," suggesting that Kevin's actions might have stemmed from an unhealthy dependence on the abusive dynamics dictated by Ruby and Jodi. "What we have here is an extremely unbalanced, unhealthy equation," Dreeke explains, referring to the dysfunctional relationship dynamics within the Franke family. He criticizes the passive role Kevin played, allowing his wife and her accomplice to manipulate and even torture their children.    The discussion also touches upon the alarming allegations of physical abuse against the children, including the use of cayenne pepper on wounds – a practice far removed from any standard parenting or disciplinary measures. Dreeke highlights the cult-like characteristics of the situation, where Ruby and Jodi enforced a singular, damaging mindset and ostracized anyone who dared to challenge their methods.    The panelists examine the broader implications of the case, particularly the role of religious institutions in inadvertently enabling such behaviors. Hildebrandt, who was recommended by the church as a counselor, exploited this endorsement to gain trust and manipulate her clients. "She used that one term [sexual deviancy] for everything," Dreeke points out, emphasizing the manipulative tactics employed by Hildebrandt.    Furthermore, the conversation sheds light on the dangers of unregulated titles like 'life coach,' which Hildebrandt adopted after losing her license to practice. This title, lacking oversight, allowed her to continue her manipulative practices under a guise of authority. "You really have to look at who you're putting your trust into," Brueski cautions, highlighting the importance of scrutinizing the credentials and background of those offering life guidance.    As the episode concludes, the spotlight remains on Kevin Franke. His actions, or lack thereof, particularly in response to his daughter's attempts to retrieve personal belongings, raise questions about his true intentions and awareness. "He seems like somebody complicit," Dreeke asserts, challenging the narrative of Kevin as a mere victim.    This complex saga of manipulation, abuse, and neglect within the Franke-Hildebrandt household forces listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about family dynamics, religious influence, and personal accountability.    As we ponder this harrowing tale, one question lingers: In a world where influence can so easily turn toxic, how do we protect the most vulnerable, especially when the threat comes from within their own home? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

14 Dec 20238min

How does a family's private turmoil escalate to a point where it captures public attention and raises serious legal and ethical questions? The latest discussion on "Hidden Killers" podcast, hosted by Tony Brueski, with attorney and former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani, delves deep into the disturbing case involving Ruby Franke, Jodi Hildebrandt, and Kevin Franke, exploring the perplexing dynamics and potential legal ramifications.    The conversation begins with a focus on Kevin Franke's role and his claim of being brainwashed. “I was willing to take anyone's advice I thought was a professional that could help me reestablish that relationship in my bond with my kids and family and my wife at the end. I was brainwashed,” Kevin stated, according to his attorney. Rahmani, weighing in on this claim, finds it plausible but also suggests that Kevin's initial actions were questionable. “After Ruby was arrested, he came out with some very bizarre statements in the media defending her... What kind of parent are you?” Rahmani questions.    The discussion moves to the broader implications of the case, particularly the abuse allegations involving Jodi Hildebrandt. Jesse Hildebrandt, Jodi's niece, recently recounted to Nightline her traumatic experiences under Jodi’s care, which resonate disturbingly with the treatment of Ruby's children. These revelations paint a picture of systemic abuse that went unnoticed for far too long.    Brueski raises the question of institutional failure and oversight, pondering how such prolonged abuse escaped thorough investigation. Rahmani highlights the confidentiality of juvenile records, which often obscures the full extent of such cases from public view. He notes, “We're relying on what's been told to us by family members, friends, and neighbors, but it's very difficult to know from the law enforcement perspective what they actually knew and what they acted upon.”    The conversation shifts to Kevin Franke's actions, particularly his reaction to his daughter retrieving belongings from their home, which Rahmani describes as “bizarre behavior.” This leads to a broader discussion on the potential for criminal charges against Kevin. “He's definitely lost in the court of public opinion...but with respect to criminal charges, is it possible? Yes, it's possible,” Rahmani acknowledges, outlining the challenges in prosecuting failure-to-protect cases when the parent is not physically present during the abuse.    Rahmani also explores the possibility of Kevin being charged with abandonment. He explains, “Parents are free to give up custody of their kids...there's nothing unlawful with that, unless Kevin acted with some knowledge or recklessness of the fact that Ruby was and is going to continue abusing those kids.”    The Franke-Hildebrandt case, as dissected by Brueski and Rahmani, reveals a tangled web of familial, legal, and moral complexities. It underscores the need for vigilance in child welfare cases and raises critical questions about the responsibilities of parents and the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms in protecting vulnerable children.    As this story continues to unfold, one cannot help but wonder: In cases where the line between victim and perpetrator blurs, how do we ensure justice for the most vulnerable, while also holding all accountable parties responsible? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

13 Dec 20235min

In a shocking turn of events, Kevin Franke, the husband of renowned YouTube vlogger Ruby Franke, has filed for divorce and a domestic relations injunction, seeking protection amidst a backdrop of child abuse charges against his estranged wife. The case has sent shockwaves through the online parenting community, where Ruby Franke and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, once thrived as popular content creators.    The divorce filing, submitted in Utah's 4th District Court, comes amid a harrowing child abuse case that Ruby Franke and Hildebrandt have been entangled in, facing six counts of aggravated child abuse. The charges have raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of their children, who were prominently featured in their online content.    The court documents, while not fully accessible to the public, reveal significant provisions in the injunction aimed at ensuring a safe and amicable separation process:    - **Protection Against Harassment:** Both Kevin and Ruby Franke are prohibited from harassing each other during the divorce proceedings.    - **Prevention of Domestic Violence:** The injunction strictly forbids any acts of domestic violence against each other or their children.    - **Misuse of Personal Information:** Neither party is allowed to misuse personal information for any purpose related to the ongoing legal matters.    - **Financial Safeguards:** The court orders prevent the couple from using each other's likeness to open credit lines and interfering with one another's phone or utility services.    - **Child Custody Measures:** Specific court orders are in place for non-routine travel with their children, indicating the importance of safeguarding their well-being.    The divorce filing and injunction come in the wake of a disturbing incident where Ruby Franke's 12-year-old son managed to escape their home, appearing emaciated and with duct tape on his body. A 911 call led the police to discover not only the 12-year-old but also his malnourished 10-year-old sister within their mother's residence. All the children, including Kevin Franke's other offspring, have now been placed in state custody.    Kevin Franke's attorney has stated that his client and Ruby Franke had been living separately for about a year and claimed to be unaware of the alleged abuse occurring in Ruby's household during that time. This separation could have played a pivotal role in Kevin Franke's decision to file for divorce and seek the domestic relations injunction.    An additional layer of complexity to this already tumultuous situation was added when an ongoing child welfare case involving the couple was ordered sealed by a judge on October 10th. Kevin Franke had been actively seeking custody of their children, citing potential harm to the minor parties involved due to public and media interest in the case.    The shocking developments in the Franke family's personal life have raised questions about the responsibilities of social media influencers and the potential consequences of sharing their lives online, especially when it involves children. As the legal proceedings continue and the child abuse case unfolds, the online parenting community and the public at large will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of the Franke children. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

4 Dec 20239min

The child abuse case involving Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt has prompted Senator David Hinkins to advocate for enhanced oversight of life coaches across Utah. Hinkins believes that the state must take a more proactive role in regulating this industry to protect families and individuals seeking guidance.    The impetus for Hinkins' call for action came from Ruby Franke's estranged husband, Kevin, who approached the lawmaker, urging him to investigate the qualifications required to become a life coach. Shockingly, Hinkins discovered that there are no mandatory qualifications, creating a concern that unqualified life coaches may be adversely affecting families for an extended period.    One alarming aspect highlighted by the case is the potentially misleading titles used by life coaches. The Connexions Classroom website, which remains operational, describes Ruby Franke as a "certified mental fitness trainer." Sen. Hinkins expressed concern over such titles, stating, "It's just a title that somebody could make up and makes it sound professional, when it's really probably not."    Furthermore, while some online classes offer what they call "mental fitness training," state law currently allows individuals like Franke to use such titles without any mandatory background training or qualifications. Hinkins emphasized, "I don't think there's anything that stops her from saying that, and I don't know that she's had any background training to be that."    Former clients of Connexions Classroom have accused Franke and company founder Jodi Hildebrandt of employing shaming tactics designed to create divisions within families. One client, Trey Warner, shared a disturbing example, where a man believed he was a danger to his family merely because he had a momentary lapse of concentration. Warner recalled, "This guy got his own apartment and separated from his family because he was a 'danger.'"    The critical issue at hand is the lack of regulations and standards governing life coaches in Utah. Sen. Hinkins highlighted this gap, stating, "Right now, there's nothing regulating [them]. They can tell people to do anything they want, and there's no recourse." He believes that individuals professing to be life coaches should be subject to criteria to establish credibility and protect the well-being of their clients.    Officials from the Utah Division of Professional Licensing declined an on-camera interview but sent a text response, acknowledging the absence of licensure requirements for life coaches in the state. They noted that some complaints involve former licensed behavioral health practitioners who lost their licenses and now operate as life coaches, providing services that may be illegal.    Sen. Hinkins clarified that the bill he intends to draft is in its early stages and aims to strike a balance between providing oversight and ensuring that people can offer advice to their family members when requested. He plans to collaborate closely with the Utah Division of Professional Licensing to develop effective legislation that addresses these concerns.    The child abuse case involving Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt has underscored the need for clearer standards and oversight within the life coaching industry, as Utah seeks to protect its residents from potentially harmful advice and practices. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

29 Nov 202313min

Have you ever wondered how seemingly ordinary individuals can be inexplicably drawn into the magnetic pull of a charismatic leader? The recent episode of "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski, delves deep into this very question as he converses with retired FBI Special Agent, Robin Dreeke, about the puzzling dynamics surrounding Ruby Franke, Jodi Hildebrandt, and notably, Kevin Franke, Ruby’s husband.    The story paints a perplexing picture. At its heart is Ruby Franke, a popular YouTuber with a significant following, and Jodi Hildebrandt, a person who, as Dreeke suggests, seemed to have been "a cult leader looking for a cult." Ruby, with her sizeable audience but lacking the assertive charisma of a leader, appears to have made the perfect target for Hildebrandt. Brueski muses, “And Ruby just kind of got sucked in there. Or maybe she had a much larger role in that.”    However, the situation becomes all the more bewildering when considering Kevin Franke, Ruby's husband. From an outsider's perspective, his position seems sympathetic: a husband witnessing a charismatic figure taking control of his wife's thoughts, feelings, and actions. Dreeke elaborates on this, revealing, “She [Jodi] got Kevin out of the picture by saying, you got to get separated. It's really unhealthy...to take total control of the access that Kevin had to this family.”    In a twist, Brueski points out an interesting observation: Jodi Hildebrandt isn't overwhelmingly charismatic, unlike famed motivational figures such as Tony Robbins. Yet, she had an uncanny ability to manipulate and control. “She's been extremely negative, very much about separating families and separating people. What is it that drew people to someone like Jodi Hildebrandt?”    Dreeke postulates that Hildebrandt's influence may not have hinged on innate charisma but rather on the "lever of influence" she wielded by using her assumed titles and the church's endorsement. According to him, Jodi's apparent authority, combined with Ruby's popularity, was a potent mix: "Ruby's the one that had the charismatic side of her...When you got Jodi, she used a lever of influence of authority." In essence, Jodi's assumed credibility combined with the trust Ruby's followers had in her created a dynamic that was hard for anyone, even Kevin, to counteract.    These recent revelations raise alarming questions about the ease with which individuals can fall prey to manipulative personalities, especially when these manipulators are armed with perceived authority or endorsements. Dreeke laments on the detrimental effects of such influence, commenting on the misdiagnoses and questionable advice Jodi offered. As he reflects on the situation, Dreeke remains speculative, “I’m making it a narrative, you know, a fictional narrative maybe. But when you look at the data points that we're seeing and you look at levers of influence and you put it all together...what a mess.”    Indeed, the tale of Kevin Franke, his wife Ruby, and the mysterious Jodi Hildebrandt serves as a cautionary tale of the hidden dangers lurking in our modern, interconnected world, where influence can easily be wielded, and lives can swiftly be upended.    However, as we wrap up this recounting, a lingering question remains: In an age of digital connectivity and endless sources of information, how can one truly discern genuine authority from dangerous manipulation? Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

11 Nov 20235min

Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.  Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

14 Okt 20237min

Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.  Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

14 Okt 20235min