Criminal Motives

8 Episodes
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By: Matthew Phifer

Criminal Motives dives into the psychology behind the world’s most shocking crimes. Hosted by therapist Matt Phifer, each episode explores the minds, motives, and moments that lead to the unthinkable. Why do people do what they do? Let’s find out.

Charlie Kirk Shooter Still on the Run: FBI Press Conference Breakdown + My Reaction
Last Friday at 6:35 AM

Charlie Kirk Shooter Still on the Run: FBI Press Conference Breakdown + My Reaction🔥 Breaking: FBI Releases New Footage in Charlie Kirk Shooting Case | Manhunt IntensifiesThis episode of Criminal Motives Podcast dives into explosive updates in the Charlie Kirk assassination investigation. The FBI just held a press conference revealing never-before-seen video footage, new suspect images, and confirmed recovery of the murder weapon. I break it all down—what they revealed, what they didn’t, and why I think the media and law enforcement both dropped the ball early on.If you're a true crime follower who values accuracy, context, and insight...


What Really Happened to Charlie Kirk?
Last Thursday at 3:36 AM

What Really Happened to Charlie Kirk?Charlie Kirk’s tragic death at just 31 years old has shocked the nation. In today’s video, I give my full breakdown of the situation — including what we know so far, why this event raises serious concerns about public safety, and the ripple effects it may have on the political and content creator landscape.👇 Get more uncensored breakdowns and updates:📬 Subscribe to my Substack – Deep dives, early access, and stories the media ignores: https://criminalmotives.substack.com/?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page⚠️ Trigger Warning: This video discusses traumatic events, including gun violence and public shootin...


Former Teacher Pleads Guilty To Sexually Assaulting a Student, But Won't Go To Prison
08/30/2025

Welcome back to the Criminal Motives Podcast! In today’s episode, host Matthew Phifer delves into the disturbing case of Brandon Hargrove, a former teacher of the year, who recently pled guilty to sexually assaulting a minor 17 years ago. Despite the gravity of the charges, Hargrove won’t serve any time in prison, receiving only probation and the requirement to register as a registered offender for life.Matthew breaks down the shocking details of the case, including the nature of the assault, the timeline, and the surprising plea agreement that led to no prison sentence. He also explores the larg...


L.A. Woman Loses Home & Life Savings After Scammers Use AI to Pose as General Hospital Star
08/30/2025

In this episode of the Criminal Motives podcast, host Matthew Phifer dives deep into the shocking story of an LA woman who fell victim to an AI-driven scam. Targeted by scammers posing as a celebrity from the soap opera General Hospital, the woman believed she was in a romantic relationship with the star. This deception led her to sell her home and hand over tens of thousands of dollars in gift cards, cash, and Bitcoin. Matthew shares his thoughts on the devastating impact of AI scams, mental health considerations, and the importance of personal responsibility.Join the conversation as...


Family Receives Mysterious Warning Message From Missing Man
#5
04/28/2025

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary and heartbreaking story of Abraham Shakespeare — a working-class man who won a $30 million Florida lottery jackpot, only to disappear under mysterious circumstances just a few years later.
We dive into the timeline of Shakespeare’s life after his big win, the people who entered his circle, and the chilling events that led to his tragic death.
This story isn’t just about luck gone wrong — it's a sobering look at greed, betrayal, and the dark side of sudden wealth.

Abraham Shakespeare’s life before the lottery: a modest man with s...


What Happened to The Menedez Brothers is Shocking
#3
04/21/2025

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Criminal Motives, we revisit one of the most polarizing true crime cases of the 20th century — the Menendez brothers. On the surface, Lyle and Erik Menendez appeared to be two privileged sons who brutally murdered their wealthy parents. But behind the headlines was a darker, more disturbing family history filled with manipulation, deep trauma, and long-buried secrets.

From Beverly Hills opulence to courtroom drama, media manipulation, and a second trial that stripped away key testimony — we walk you through everything. And now, decades later, this case is back in the spot...


The Dark Truth About the Gabby Petito Case
#2
04/14/2025

Episode Summary:
Gabby Petito had a dream — to explore the world and document her journey on YouTube with the person she loved. But her story became a viral tragedy that shocked the world. In this episode of Criminal Motives, we go beyond the headlines to explore the manipulative dynamics between Gabby and her fiancé, Brian Laundrie — from early signs of emotional abuse, to the toxic influence of Brian’s family, to the heartbreaking unraveling that led to a nationwide manhunt.

We dive deep into trauma bonding, isolation, manipulation, and the failure of law enforcement to properly assess...


Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt: The Dark Truth Behind 8 Passengers
#1
04/05/2025

Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt: The Dark Truth Behind 8 PassengersJoin my newsletter: https://beacons.ai/mattphifer.coaching/page2Ruby Franke, the former 8 Passengers YouTube mom, has been arrested on shocking child abuse charges alongside therapist Jodi Hildebrandt. Once known for her strict parenting advice, Ruby’s downfall has exposed the dark reality behind family vlogging and social media influencers. How did things go so wrong?Watch this next: https://youtu.be/-Hsc_6YGhAYIn this video, we break down:🔹 Ruby Franke’s controversial parenting and 8 Passengers YouTube channel🔹 Her connection to Jodi Hildebrandt and the disturbing allegations🔹 The role of family vloggers and...