Dark Finds Podcast

Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by bestselling author Gregory A. Freeman, a master of historical true crime and untold wartime stories.

We’ll be diving into his incredible book, The Forgotten 500, which tells the gripping story of over 500 allied airmen shot down over Nazi-occupied Yugoslavia during World War II. With the help of local villagers and General  Mihailović’s Chetnik forces, these airmen were hidden from German troops and rescued in one of the largest airlift operations behind enemy lines—a story of courage, ingenuity, and ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

Gregory also shares insig...

Today, I'm joined by Dr. Katherine Ramsland, a prolific author and professor of forensic psychology. She specializes in extreme offenders and has authored numerous books on the subjects of serial killers, crime scene investigation, forensic science, and mass murder

On today's episode, I sit down with Scott DeLuzio, an army veteran who served in the Connecticut Army National Guard as an infantryman between 2005-2011 and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010.

Scott discusses the challenges veterans face, including mental health issues and the search for purpose after service. He highlights the importance of community support, the complexities of combat experiences, and the role of humor in coping with trauma.

During his deployment, tragically, Scott became a Gold Star Brother when his younger brother, Sergeant Steven DeLuzio was killed in action while they were both deployed...

Today, I'm joined by Vennie Kocsis, the author of Cult Child, who shares her harrowing experiences growing up in the cult, Sam Fife The Move. Vennie discusses her early childhood, the transformation of her mother into a cult member, and the psychological trauma that ensued. She reflects on the cult's beliefs, the abuse she and other children endured, and the lasting impact of these experiences on her life. The conversation also touches on the intersection of cults and government, the ongoing legacy of Sam Fife's cult, and the importance of healing and awareness for survivors. We delve into the...

Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by bestselling thriller writer Alice Hunter, whose gripping novels delve deep into the minds of serial killers and psychopaths. Alice takes us on her fascinating journey from nursing to working as a psychological facilitator in the prison system, to finding her passion in writing. She shares how her work explores psychopathy, criminal psychology, and the fine line between nature and nurture. We talk about the meticulous research that goes into her books, psychopaths and serial killers, and what it’s like to see her stories adapted for screen.

Alice's books - http...

In this episode, I sit down with one of motorsport’s most charismatic and candid voices — Guenther Steiner. From a young boy with a fascination for cars to becoming a key figure in the high-stakes world of Formula 1, Guenther takes us through his remarkable journey.

We dive into his early passion for racing, the tough breaks and breakthroughs that shaped his career, and the realities of what it takes to succeed behind the scenes — from sponsorships and networking to the art of the pitch. Guenther also reflects on the massive global impact of Netflix’s Drive to Survive, and...

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Karen Conti, an attorney who spent seven months representing serial killer John Wayne Gacy during his final death row appeals.

Karen shares what it was like to sit across from one of America’s most notorious killers, his humor and coldness alike. As Gacy’s only female attorney during his 14 years on death row, she also opens up about the unique challenges she faced as a woman practicing law in the 1980s and ’90s.

We dive into Gacy’s crimes, his disturbing psychological profile, and the family dynam...

On this weeks episode I'm joined by a good friend of mine, Brian Whelan who shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Ireland to becoming a successful real estate broker in New York City. He brings us through the challenges and rewards of working in a hyper-competitive market, the importance of resilience and mindset, and the value of building relationships in sales. 

Broker Brunch Podcast 👉🏼 https://open.spotify.com/show/24KJ3040mJcqP794xV3Azx?si=598e29eb97214ceb

How It Falls Apart Kickstarter here 🚀 https://www.kicksta...

In this episode, Fergus Kennedy shares the profound journey of uncovering his family's history, particularly focusing on his father's harrowing experiences as a prisoner of war during World War II. The discussion delves into the emotional and physical struggles faced by POWs, the brutal conditions of the Japanese camps, and the resilience of the human spirit. Fergus reflects on the importance of storytelling in preserving history and honoring the legacy of those who endured unimaginable hardships. The conversation highlights themes of survival, family, and the quest for understanding one's roots.

Buy the book here 👉🏼 https...

Today, we're diving into the chilling and complex world of cults with one of the most respected voices in the field: Rick Alan Ross. Rick is the founder and Executive Director of the Cult Education Institute and is widely recognized as a leading authority on destructive cults, high-control groups, and controversial movements. He’s also the author of the acclaimed book Cults Inside Out: How People Get In and Can Get Out.

Since 1982, Rick has been studying and confronting the dangers posed by authoritarian and manipulative groups. His work has led him to testify as an expert witnes...

In this episode, filmmaker J.W. Cox shares his journey through the world of filmmaking, discussing his favorite movies, the blending of genres, and the importance of building tension in storytelling. He reflects on the evolution of cinema, the technical aspects of filmmaking, and the challenges faced in the industry. Joe emphasizes the significance of education, the impact of financial literacy on student debt, and the value of pursuing one's passion in the arts. They discuss the importance of practical experience over formal education in creative fields, the transformative impact of AI on jobs and the arts, and the...

In this episode, SFF and horror writer Anthony Ryan discusses the inspiration behind his novel Red River Seven, touching on the influence of the pandemic and the complexities of crafting villains. He explores the blurred lines between heroes and villains, the impact of cultural and historical contexts on writing, and the pursuit of happiness in modern society. Anthony shares insights into his writing journey, the transition from self-publishing to traditional publishing, and the importance of establishing a writing routine. The discussion also delves into the allure of post-apocalyptic fiction and the endless idea generation process that fuels his creativity.<...

Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garycolton/how-it-falls-apart-an-immersive-dystopian-thriller

In this episode, we discuss various pressing global issues, including the potential for World War III, the societal impacts of pandemics, and the mysteries surrounding prion diseases and the disappearance of the racehorse Shergar.

We also delve into the portrayal of zombies in media, the psychological effects of torture, and the role of special forces in modern conflicts. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the authenticity of war stories, the rise of operator literature, and the psychological profiles of serial killers, particularly focusing...

Brianna Lafferty shares her remarkable journey from a career in construction to becoming a death doula after a life-altering near-death experience. She discusses her struggles with myoclonus dystonia, a rare neurological disorder that affected her from a young age, leading to significant mental health challenges. Brianna's story highlights the importance of surrender, self-love, and the interconnectedness of physical and spiritual health, ultimately illustrating her transformation and healing through adversity.

Brianna goes on to share her profound near-death experience (NDE) and the insights she gained about life, death, and the nature of existence. She discusses the various...

In this powerful episode, Brent Cassity opens up about his dramatic fall from corporate success to federal prison — and the remarkable personal transformation that followed. Once a high-flying CEO, Brent shares how his father's incarceration foreshadowed his own, and how the weight of shame, stigma, and regret nearly broke him.

Through raw storytelling and hard-won insight, Brent reflects on the emotional toll of the plea process, the collapse of his business, and the surreal moment he stepped inside prison walls. But what followed wasn’t just survival — it was the beginning of something redemptive.

We d...

In this conversation...

Jonathan Schwartz shares his profound journey from childhood trauma to a successful career in business management within the entertainment industry, followed by a devastating fall into gambling addiction and embezzlement. He discusses the impact of unresolved trauma on his life, the lessons learned during his time in prison, and his commitment to helping others struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Jonathan's story is one of resilience, redemption, and the ongoing journey of personal growth.

Jonathan shares his harrowing journey through addiction, particularly gambling, and the subsequent path to recovery...

In this conversation, I sit down with Andrew Sanders to explore the cyclical nature of conflict and war, examining historical patterns, the role of security as a resource, and the impact of media on public perception. It delves into the radicalization of individuals, particularly in the context of the IRA, and discusses the implications of internment and inequality in Irish Republicanism. The discussion also touches on necropolitics and the manipulation of state power, drawing parallels to contemporary issues. This conversation delves into the complexities of the Northern Ireland conflict, exploring the fragmentation of paramilitary groups, the justifications for violence...

In this profound conversation, David Ditchfield shares his near-death experience following a tragic accident on a train platform. He recounts the harrowing moments leading up to the accident, his journey beyond pain, and the transformative encounters with beings of light. David reflects on the nature of existence, the power of the soul, and the lessons learned about time and love. His story offers hope and insight into the afterlife, challenging conventional beliefs about death and consciousness. In this conversation, David Ditchfield shares his profound experiences surrounding his near-death experience (NDE) and how it transformed his life. He discusses the...

In this conversation, I sit down with Jesse Crosson as he shares his journey from a troubled youth spiraling into addiction and crime to finding solace and self-discovery during his time in prison. Jesse spent 19 years locked up, and discusses the tension and violence that permeate prison life, the struggle for education, and the impact of a scarcity mentality on rehabilitation efforts. He reflects on his journey to freedom through education and mentorship, the emotional challenges of reentry into society, and the importance of community support. Jesse also highlights the transformative power of education in reducing recidivism and the...

In this episode, I sit down with Char Helliker to explore the fascinating world of mediumship, discussing its definition, the ancient connections to spirituality, and personal experiences that have shaped her understanding of the spirit world. Char shares her journey of awakening, the role of faith, and the influence of substances on spiritual experiences, including the healing potential of plant medicine. The dialogue delves into the challenges of navigating spirit communication and confronting darkness, particularly in relation to addiction. In this conversation, Char and Gary explore the profound connection between spirituality, gratitude, and the energy of Mother Earth. Char...

In this episode, I sit down with author and TED X speakers, Claire McAuliffe. Claire shares her experiences as a cult survivor, discussing the gradual process of becoming involved in a cult, the psychological manipulation at play, and the personal struggles she faced. She highlights the role of predictions made by cult leaders, the fear instilled in members, and the societal changes that influenced cult dynamics. Claire emphasizes the importance of understanding vulnerability and the impact of fear on decision-making, as well as her journey towards reclaiming her identity and voice after leaving the cult. If you’re liking th...

In this episode, Gary sits down with M.E. Thomas, author of Confessions of a Sociopath, to explore the nuanced world of psychopathy — from societal perceptions and neurodiversity to capitalism and morality. Together, they unpack how psychopaths function within society, challenge common misconceptions, and examine the impact of sampling bias in research. Their conversation dives into the complex relationship between empathy, narcissism, and identity, touching on everything from immigrant contributions and fictional character relatability to language, writing, and community dynamics. M.E. also shares her personal journey: growing up in the Mormon church, navigating academia, and her therapeutic path tow...

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Ben Shenton. Ben is a survivor of "The Family," a notorious New Age cult led by Anne Hamilton-Byrne. At 18 months old, Ben was handed over to Hamilton-Byrne, who falsely claimed to be his mother. Within the cult, children were subjected to severe abuse, including forced conformity through identical appearances and strict discipline. In 1987, at age 15, Shenton was among several children rescued during a police raid on the cult's property. ​Ben has since become an advocate for survivors of cults and abusive environments and works now as a pastor. He authored the bo...

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by bodybuilder and content creator the Half Natty King. Today, we’ll be delving into bodybuilding, the fitness industry, gear, struggles, serial killers, and so much more. And remember, if you’re liking the podcast, please subscribe, rate, follow, and share it with others.

Half Natty King website: https://50percentnatty.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqQX5MMa3LnMCp702GrkdoXtDgtOZdx5Ttl_SoI_xmxVjkdJpz7-mWM2g_aem_SaG16InU-v35TWjUJt3Cxg

Half Natty King IG: https://www.instagram.com/50percentnatty_/

Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://w...

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Adrian Goldsworthy, ancient historian and novelist, who has authored nearly 30 books. From his deep dives into the lives of Julius Caesar and Augustus to his gripping novels set in Roman Britain, Dr. Goldsworthy is a master storyteller who brings history vividly to life. Today, we’ll be delving into ancient Rome and the fascinating world of Philip II and Alexander the Great—two legendary figures whose vision and ambition reshaped the ancient world.

Adrain's website: http://www.adriangoldsworthy.com/

Adrain's YT Channel: https://www.yout...

On this week’s episode I’m joined by journalist and author Cheyna Roth. After transitioning from law, she started her career as a political reporter for the Michigan Public Radio Network. She is now a senior producer and podcast host for Slate, working on shows like What Next TBD, Political Gabfest, Slate Money and so many more. Between Two Wars is Cheyna's latest true crime collection, which I highly recommend for all you true crime fans. She also published Cold Cases: A True Crime Collection in July 2020 where she dives into The Zodiac Killer and The Golden Sate Kille...

On this week’s episode we sit down thriller writer Andrea Mara, a Number One Sunday Times, Irish Times, and Kindle bestselling author, who has been shortlisted for Irish Crime Novel of the Year at the An Post Book Awards for four of her books. Andrea excels at building suspense and creating relatable characters who find themselves in dangerous situations. She frequently writes about domestic settings and everyday situations that turn sinister, which resonates with many readers. 

Andrea's Website - https://andreamara.ie/

Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/

On this week’s episode we sit down health psychologist, neuroscientist, and author, Sabina Brennan. Sabina’s book ‘100 days to a Younger Brain’ is a number 1 bestseller, and her latest book, ‘The Neuroscience of Manifesting’, is a riveting smash hit. We get through it all on this episode, dispelling the woo woo of manifesting, look towards, practical techniques, and discuss how we can all improve our brain health. And remember, if you’re liking the podcast, please subscribe, rate, follow, and share it with others.

Sabina's Website - http://www.sabinabrennan.ie/about/

Dark Finds Pod...

On this week’s episode we sit down with documentary film maker & author Henry Vyner-Brooks. Henry is also the host of the ‘Saving Europe’ YouTube channel, where he takes us on a journey across Europe and explores the people who rescued European Civilisation in the Dark Ages & after World War II, people like Columbanus and Robert Schuman. On this episode, we delve into the story of Columbanus, an influential Irish missionary and a key figure in the Christian monastic movement of the early Middle Ages. We explore Bangor Abbey, known at the light of the world in the 6th century...

On this week’s episode we sit down with author and award-winning political journalist Harry McGee. Harry is the political correspondent with The Irish Times, and has previously worked for several publications, including being political editor of the Irish Examiner, as well as jobs with the Sunday Tribune, and the Sunday Press. Harry also authored “The Murderer and the Taoiseach: Death, Politics and GUBU”, which explores a notorious case in 1980s Ireland involving Malcolm Macarthur, an Irish aristocrat who committed a brutal killing spree in an attempt to alleviate his financial troubles. The case not only shocked the nation but also had...

After a summer break, we are back, and will be uploading an episode each week. We have a bumper line-up coming down the tracks, so remember to follow the podcast and hit the bell so you never miss an episode. Today, Rob Benson joins me tell us how to stay prepared for everything. Rob is an outdoorsman living in the Colorado mountains – who has a popular Instagram channels and blog that focuses on survival and apocalypse prepping; Camping, Hunting, Homesteading, and Survival. We get into all of that and more, like how Rob got into doomsday prepping, from losing ev...

On this week’s episode we sit down with Ventura County Crime Scene Investigator and host of The Walls Do Talk Podcast Gabrielle Wimer. Gabi has worked in Crime Scene Investigation for 15 years and has been a Latent Print Examiner for the past 6 years. We go deep into the world of forensics on this podcast as Gabi brings us through some of the most intense crime scene she has worked, we do myth busting, and delve into a day in the life of a CSI. Buckle up for this, it’s not for the Squamish. If you’re liking the pod...

On this week’s episode we sit down with Tony O’Reilly, otherwise known as Tony 10. Tony 10 was the online betting username of Tony O’Reilly, the postman who became front-page news in 2011 after he stole €1.75 million from An Post while he was a branch manager in Gorey, Co. Wexford. He used the money to fund a gambling addiction that began with a bet of €1 and eventually rose to €10 million, leading to the loss of his job, his family, his home – and winning him a prison sentence. Honestly, this book reads like a thriller. The Astonishing Story of the Postman who Ga...

On this week’s episode we are joined by singer / songwriter, and Cork native Darren Kiely. We go Darren’s story, growing up in Cork, moving to New York gigging in bars before moving to Nashville and immersing himself in the thriving singer songwriter music scene. We discuss Darren's creative process, talk through the meaning in his songs, and chat about Darren's latest song 'Avalon'.

Darren's Website - https://www.darrenkiely.com/

Darren's IG - https://www.instagram.com/darrenkielymusic/

Darren's Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/15Cdd3Wai5nQZA...

On this week’s episode we are joined by YouTuber Descent Into Darkness who hosts one of my favourite channels on YouTube. His content is dark and creepy and we kept with that theme for this episode where we discuss the case of former WWE wrestler Chris Benoit and the murder suicide at his family home in 2007. We go through the case of Lesley Molseed, the wrongful conviction of Stefan Kiszko, and the vile corruption of Dick Holland. We discuss steroid use, Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and the potential role it plays in murders. We go through conspiracy theories an...

On this week’s episode we have super heavy weight bodybuilder Connor Magee. During covid, Connor had a horrific accident when re-racking the bar of the smith machine. He broke his both ankles, shin bones and ruptured both knees. He spent time in a wheelchair, but his drive to lift and compete again kept him going. He's since bounced back, and will be competing in the Irish Nationals and in Sweden later in the year. I found his mentality, and his road to redemption story to be so incredibly inspiring, and I believe you will too. 

Con...

On this week’s episode, we have author John Crotty who has recently published his book all about Ireland’s Alcatraz‘, Spike Island in Cork. A frequent traveller, John has explored over 60 countries and visited many of the world's wonders. He also served as CEO for six years at ‘Spike Island. We get through a lot in this episode from early Irish settlers, Spike Island’s rich and storied history, the monks that inhabited the island, the booming piracy antics around west Cork,  the Vikings, the Irish famine, republicans, rioters, Fenians, gangsters, captains and convicts. This is one for all you histo...

On this week’s episode we have singer / songwriter Kail Baxley. We go deep on this one; His outlaw parents, impoverished youth, the golden glove medals, gunshot wounds, making music, DMT, and so much more. This is a fascinating episode, and remembered, if you’re liking the podcast, please subscribe, rate, follow, and share it with others. 

Kail has lived an almost filimic life; full of highs and lows, strange characters and, finally, redemption. When he was a child his father ran out on him and his mother went to prison. He was raised by his grand...

On toady’s episode we have true crime writer Toria from the Hot and Cold Crime account. As a former 911 dispatcher and private investigator, Toria brings a technical perspective on crime. Her first book, "More Than Just a Pretty Face", provides in depth look into the depravity of Rodney Alcala, and the victims he left behind.

Toria penned letters to five serial killers, and on this episode, we go through her letter corospondence with BTK, we go into the Rodney Alcala case, discuss the Delphi murders, and so much more. This is an eye opening episode, an...

On toady’s episode we have rappers KevinJBeatz’s and Alan Kay. Kevin’s style of music blends elements of cloud rap, emo rap, and trap music, while Alan’s style brings raw, relatable lyrics and melodic vocals. We get through a lot in this episode, from dropping out of school at seventeen, to Xanax addiction, spending time in prison, making music, taking risks, and finding creative inspiration through pain.

Alan Kay's IG - https://www.instagram.com/theonly.alankay

KevinJBeatz IG - https://www.instagram.com/kevinjbeatz

Alan's Spotify - https...