What Dark Secrets Was Mommy Blogger Hiding?

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

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 20239min

Can the sanctity of religious institutions provide camouflage for sinister intentions? In the latest episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski dives deep into the controversial cases of Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt, speaking with former FBI Special Agent and regular contributor, Jennifer Coffindaffer. The revelations are shocking and challenge us to rethink the nature of trust and the potentially dangerous intersections between faith and abuse.    "Here we're talking about this specific example, this specific religion and this specific community," begins Brueski, "But when you look at it in a broader term of child abuse and institutionalized child abuse...it's very hard to come to terms with something that you've believed your whole life was pure and good and wonderful."    Coffindaffer expounds on this sentiment, reflecting on the dark side of such powerful institutions: "I believe wholeheartedly that people in church organizations are targeted because of their kind hearts and they can be easily influenced." This influence isn't limited to one denomination or community. From the Catholic Church to isolated cults, there is a history of individuals manipulating the faith and goodwill of their community for nefarious purposes.    Brueski recalls a tale from Wichita, where an amusement park venture headed by a convicted fraudster drained the funds of a church community. Coffindaffer adds, citing the infamous cases of Jim Jones and David Koresh, where entire communities were led astray by charismatic leaders with twisted interpretations of religious texts.    Central to the episode is the case of Kevin Franke. Franke's claims of limited contact with his children and strange reactions to the recent actions of his daughter raise eyebrows. "He's saying that he's had very limited contact with Jodi, or the kids...I don't know how to get a read on him or put myself in his shoes because I don't know what kind of shoes he's wearing," says Brueski.    Coffindaffer, never one to mince her words, labels Franke as a "deplorable father." The apparent neglect and the cryptic actions surrounding his daughter retrieving diaries from the house seem to suggest darker undercurrents. "I think she's gonna sink their ship 100 percent," Brueski observes, emphasizing the importance of the information in those diaries.    Drawing parallels to another chilling case, Brueski brings up the "boy in the box" situation, highlighting the harrowing detachment some parents exhibit towards their children. The sad reality, as Coffindaffer points out, is that children often do not want to turn against their parents, even when faced with glaring evidence of their parents' misdeeds.    The episode is a stark reminder of the depths some individuals can sink to, and how even institutions built on love, trust, and community can sometimes be manipulated by those with darker motives. It emphasizes the importance of vigilance and education to protect vulnerable members of society.    In concluding the episode, Brueski poses a question, reflecting the thoughts of many: "It doesn't make any sense to those of us who do love our children." Indeed, the discussion provokes intense emotions and underscores the vital responsibility society holds to shield its most vulnerable members.    As we absorb the revelations of this episode, another question lingers: In a world where trust is essential, how do we guard against those who exploit it? 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 Okt 20237min

How can a person, seemingly under the radar of authority, inflict such egregious harm on the vulnerable for an extended period? This is the question that echoes through a recent episode of "Hidden Killers" with Tony Brueski. Psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott, dives deep into the chilling accounts surrounding Jodi Hildebrandt, revealing a tapestry of trauma, manipulation, and institutional oversight.    Jesse Hildebrandt, Jodi's niece, recently recounted her harrowing experiences on Nightline. "She would lock me up in a room... make me write out my sins on paper," she disclosed, further narrating how she was forced to sleep outside in the snow and was restrained with duct tape. But Jesse isn't the lone voice echoing these sentiments. Similar tales, stemming from the children of Ruby Franke, also paint a bleak portrait of Jodi's long standing modus operandi.    Brueski, perplexed by the depth of these allegations, inquired, "How does this... exist, I guess is the question, with no oversight?" For many, the answer seems as elusive as it is chilling. Shavaun Scott's insights on the matter are unequivocal: "The lady is crazy and abusive and inappropriate." This dire assessment leaves many to ponder how the state's licensing board in Utah let Jodi's malevolent practices persist for so long.    Intriguingly, the conversation soon steers toward a controversial nexus - religion. The Latter-day Saint (LDS) church, which once endorsed Jodi, becomes a topic of debate. While Brueski clarified that the intent isn't to denigrate LDS, he raises a poignant question: Can an institution's reputation cloud judgment when allegations emerge? Scott concurs, theorizing that the affirmation from the Mormon faith may have inadvertently empowered Jodi, allowing her to carry on with her unsettling approach, particularly as it meshed with certain conservative views on sexuality.    But Jodi isn't the only character under scrutiny. Kevin Franke, associated with Jodi and Ruby, finds himself at the center of a complex web of relationships and actions. "It's hard, quite frankly, looking at Kevin Franke," states Brueski, baffled by Franke's purported detachment from his children and the inexplicable passivity to the unfolding drama. Franke's seemingly bizarre behavior — from limited contact with his children to accusations against his own daughter — further thickens the plot.    As more details emerge, a larger question looms: who truly is the victim? While Kevin's attorney posits him as one, the narratives from those harmed and the documented evidence may suggest otherwise. Scott provides a clear analysis, stating, "Ruby is not right. Jodi is not right. And I don't think Kevin is quite right either."    In the end, the intricate web spun by Jodi Hildebrandt, Ruby Franke, Kevin Franke, and their intersections with institutional faith expose the fragile balances within societal structures. The alarming ease with which harmful practices can persist, shielded by faith or organizational affiliations, stands as a testament to the need for vigilant oversight and reflection.    In the face of such profound revelations, one is left pondering: In a world where protection should be paramount, how can so many cries go unheard for so long? 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

12 Okt 20235min

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

12 Okt 20235min

How can an individual maintain such a hold over others that even basic human rights are denied?  In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski conversed with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott about the troubling revelations surrounding Jodi Hildebrandt's interactions with Ruby Franke, and the chilling accounts of her past behaviors. The information brought forward, including startling admissions from Jodi’s niece, Jesse Hildebrandt, gives an alarming perspective on the extent of Jodi's manipulation.    "The lady is crazy and abusive and inappropriate," Shavaun remarked, addressing the serious accusations against Jodi. It was Jesse who recounted her traumatic time under Jodi's care, detailing how she was forced to sleep outside in the snow, duct-taped, isolated, and made to write out her 'sins.' This wasn't a singular incident confined to Ruby Franke's children. Jesse’s account indicates a pattern that Jodi had maintained for years.    Concerns arise when one wonders how such actions went unchecked. The issue isn't merely about an individual’s wrongdoing but the system that allowed it. "It makes one wonder about the licensing board in the state of Utah," Shavaun notes, questioning how Jodi was allowed to run a counseling agency despite her history. The deeper connection between Jodi's counseling services and the Mormon faith's endorsement may offer some insight.    "Having the affirmation of the Mormon faith gave her power," Shavaun suggests. This backing, it seems, provided a veil that prevented closer scrutiny of her actions. Notably, even when the Church ceased its official endorsement of Jodi, individual recommendations persisted, shielding her from accountability.    Another figure entangled in this web is Kevin Franke, Ruby's husband. His seemingly passive role raises eyebrows. "It's like these women were running the show and dictating everything to him," Brueski observes. Despite being an educated professional, Kevin’s questionable actions towards his children, especially during a contentious interaction over the retrieval of personal belongings, casts him in a perplexing light. His lawyer's emphasis on his alleged 'victimhood' contrasts sharply with his actions.    The twisted dynamics between Ruby, Jodi, and Kevin brings forward another daunting aspect of this narrative: the ease with which individuals can be manipulated and controlled, especially by someone exhibiting cult-like dominance. Ruby, despite her age and apparent agency, might herself have fallen prey to Jodi's influence. Shavaun parallels this case to the notorious Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow scenario, explaining, "When you have 2 people who are not well, and you put them together, then you get a monster."    This multi-layered tale of control, manipulation, and deranged behavior serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities humans possess, even when they seem most secure. The dangers aren't always from the outside. Sometimes, the most significant threats reside in the trust we place in those closest to us, and the institutions we hold dear.    In a world where trust is paramount, how do we discern genuine guidance from manipulative control? 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 Okt 20237min

How does a seemingly "strict" parent evolve into someone capable of severe child abuse?  In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, Tony Brueski sat down with Robin Dreeke, retired FBI Special Agent and Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program, to dissect a troubling and complex situation. The case at hand revolves around a mother, referred to as Ruby, whose strict and unreasonable parenting showcased on her YouTube channel spiraled into allegations of physical and mental abuse. The most jarring incident was the escape of her emaciated son, who was discovered duct-taped.    Tony questioned, "How does one go from being a strict parent… to literally your son escaping a home emaciated and duct taped?" Dreeke likened the situation to the proverbial "lobster in the pot," a slow boil that gradually intensifies until it's too late.    It appears Ruby was not acting alone. A certain "Jodi" seemed to have a manipulative grip on Ruby, directing her actions and isolating her from loved ones who might intervene. Dreeke commented on the dangers of such isolation, “All the loving critics, like her husband, that could have said, ‘Hey, what the hell are you doing?’ Jodi got rid of him.”    Drawing parallels to Robert Greene’s "Laws of Human Nature", Dreeke pointed out that individuals often surround themselves with enablers who validate their beliefs. As Ruby's actions were continually reaffirmed by her YouTube following and by Jodi, her behavior became increasingly severe. The conversation even touched upon historical contexts, highlighting how individuals like Hitler rose to power by manipulating the masses – a demonstration of how powerful and influential a single individual's hold can be on people, leading them to commit or overlook heinous acts.    While Dreeke was careful not to directly compare Jodi to Hitler, he emphasized the psychological tactics at play. "It's the levers of influence that we're talking about," he stated.    Another element the duo dissected was the strange behavior of Ruby's husband, Kevin. Amid the controversy, Kevin had an altercation with his elder daughter, Sherry, accusing her of burglary after she collected some of her belongings from their family home. While she stated relief over her mother’s arrest, Kevin seemed resistant, even hostile. Tony expressed bewilderment over Kevin's decision-making, implying that there's a lot more beneath the surface that hasn't come to light.    Despite the deep analysis, the situation remains an enigma, presenting more questions than answers. The episode serves as a chilling reminder of the extent to which individuals can be manipulated, the dangers of unchecked power, and the complexities of human psychology.    Is society susceptible to the influence of manipulative figures in daily life, and if so, how can we recognize and counteract these influences before they cause irreversible harm? 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 Okt 20238min

Could it be that the whispers of abuse from the Franke-Hildebrandt households were systematically ignored until they reached a deafening crescendo? In a revealing conversation on "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski probed the alleged cases of child mistreatment involving Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt. His discussion with attorney and former Federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani unpacked the dynamics that might have allowed such harrowing episodes to persist.    Jesse Hildebrandt, niece of Jodi, recently spoke to Nightline about unsettling experiences during her youth. According to Jesse, she faced "lock-ups" in rooms, was compelled to pen down her sins - echoing a significant influence from Jodi's LDS background - and endured harsh punishments like being forced to sleep outside amidst snow or being restrained with duct tape. This narrative bears an eerie resemblance to what Ruby Franke's children allegedly went through, bringing to light the abusive patterns ingrained in these families.    "Look, I've been trying to let people know about this for quite some time," Jesse had asserted, hinting at overlooked cries for help. Ruby Franke's 20-year-old daughter had reportedly been waving red flags too. Yet, it took the discovery of the emaciated sibling, who sought refuge at a neighbor's doorstep, to blow the lid off.    Rahmani weighed in, expressing frustration over the lack of transparency. "With juvenile records being confidential and sealed, while criminal cases are eventually out in the open, we remain largely in the dark about these abuse allegations. We're essentially relying on tales from family, friends, and neighbors, but the complete picture remains elusive," he remarked.    But the issue is multi-layered. Some individuals, especially those in the public eye like Franke and Hildebrandt, often master the art of deception. Brueski highlighted the dichotomy of their actions, especially given their strong YouTube presence. The alarm bells should have rung even louder when a petition signed by 17,000 individuals had pleaded for a thorough investigation into the families. The signs were there, but were they simply brushed under the carpet?    The discussion also veered towards Kevin Franke's perplexing stance. A figure who remained somewhat on the fringes of these incidents, Kevin's bizarre reactions following his daughter's attempt to retrieve her belongings from their home have raised eyebrows. His accusations against her - alleging burglary when she took away potentially incriminating documents and journals - could very well backfire.    "Kevin better tread lightly," Rahmani opined, emphasizing the fragility of Kevin's position. "We've talked about his exposure... he wasn't there, but he failed to protect his kids, and now he's trying to threaten them? He may find himself in the crosshairs of a criminal investigation."    The attorney went further, critiquing Kevin's apparent detachment from the turmoil engulfing his family. "These are kids. They're being abused. They're being tortured. Kevin's actions, or the lack thereof, might not be criminal, but he doesn't strike me as a good dad at all," Rahmani concluded.    As the story continues to unravel, a cloud of doubt and mistrust hovers. How many warning signs went unheeded? How did such a vast network of supporters and followers remain oblivious, or worse, indifferent, to these tales of torment?    And so, as we reflect on this grim narrative, a haunting question remains: How many more whispered cries for help are we, as a society, failing to hear? 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

10 Okt 20235min