On January 15, 1947, a dead body is discovered in a vacant lot on the edge of downtown Los Angeles, California. A young woman was brutally murdered and police identify her as Elizabeth Short. Investigators and newspaper reporters race to uncover the details of her life story. The press have a gory and sensational story on their hands. The police have a dark and twisted mystery to solve. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users ...
Oct 18, 2023•32 min•Season 28Ep. 3
In the weeks after the murder of Hollywood director William Desmond Taylor, detectives methodically investigate a long list of suspects. They – and the press – uncover scandalous information. Careers are ruined, but no one is arrested. The case languishes for decades until another Hollywood director believes he solves the mystery. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes, bingeable season...
Oct 11, 2023•35 min•Season 28Ep. 2
By the early 1920s, William Desmond Taylor is one of the hottest directors in Hollywood … which makes it all the more surprising when he is found dead in his home. The circumstances of the discovery of his murder are bizarre, and a scandal erupts in the capital of the movie industry. As detectives try to unravel the mystery, they quickly learn that all is not what it seems with the man who is known as the “gentleman director.” Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackb...
Oct 04, 2023•35 min•Season 28Ep. 1
Black Barrel Media and QCODE proudly share a preview of Mission History, a podcast that chronicles the tales of legendary military leaders, epic campaigns, and covert missions that remained hidden for years. The first season journeys through the American Revolutionary War and pays homage to some of the elite soldiers on both sides of the conflict. It traces the origin from protests to rebellion to revolution. It illuminates the strategies of the leaders from both sides, the commanders on the bat...
Sep 27, 2023•15 min•Season 27Ep. 7
In the wake of the Albert Patterson assassination, the Alabama governor declares martial law in Russell County. National guard troops swarm Phenix City. They dismantle the illegal operations and remove corrupt officials from office, and a new Phenix City rises from the ashes of the old. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noiser+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons. Click the Noiser+ banner on Apple or go to no...
Aug 23, 2023•32 min•Season 27Ep. 6
It’s election time again in Phenix City, and Hugh Bentley and his reformers vow to make it an honest process. In response, there’s bloodshed at polling places. Despite the corruption, Bentley’s friend and fellow reformer, Albert Patterson, seems to have a good chance to win the race for State Attorney General. But his success makes him a target, and the criminals can’t afford to let him win. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple u...
Aug 16, 2023•31 min•Season 27Ep. 5
Hoyt Shepherd and his brother go to trial for murder, and few people are surprised by the outcome. With corruption and crime on the rise, a new champion of reform leads the charge for change. Hugh Bentley makes it his mission to clean up Phenix City, and he quickly becomes the target of a bomb for his efforts. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noiser+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons. Click the Noiser+ ban...
Aug 09, 2023•33 min•Season 27Ep. 4
Corruption and murder challenge the system of crime in Phenix City. Hoyt Shepherd and Jimmie Matthews work to rig local elections using every available method. They use illegal tactics to help the mayor during his campaign for a spot on the City Commission, and a victory party becomes the setting for a murder that could finally shake up the criminal status quo. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noiser+ for ad-free e...
Aug 02, 2023•33 min•Season 27Ep. 3
America’s 13-year ban on alcohol doesn’t stop saloon owners and whiskey makers in Phenix City. After Prohibition ends, gambling takes center stage in town. Hoyt Shepherd and Jimmie Matthews run the most prominent gambling rackets in Phenix City, but their reign is threatened by a tragedy at one of their clubs. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noiser+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons. Click the Noiser+ ban...
Jul 26, 2023•33 min•Season 27Ep. 2
The story of the Dixie Mafia begins in Phenix City, Alabama. The town was sometimes called “the wickedest city in America.” It was sometimes called “America’s original sin city.” By the 20th century, crime was institutionalized to the point that only a revolution could solve the problem. But long before high-profile crimes forced the clean-up, the city grew into an unlikely hotspot for all things illicit and illegal. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supp...
Jul 19, 2023•34 min•Season 27Ep. 1
New Jersey authorities and federal agents officially launch Operation Iceman to arrest Richard Kuklinski. Richard helps Sammy Gravano and John Gotti remove Paul Castellano from his position as the boss of the Gambino Family. Then, despite Richard’s natural caution, he becomes desperate to stop Detective Pat Kane’s investigation. That desperation leads to the end of the Iceman. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noise...
Jun 21, 2023•33 min•Season 26Ep. 6
By the early 1980s, New Jersey State Police detective Pat Kane is positive Richard Kuklinski is a prolific and versatile killer, despite the skepticism of Kane’s bosses. As Kane slowly builds his case, Richard races to eliminate loose ends. The bodies pile up, and Kane enlists the help of Agent Dominick Polifrone of the ATF. They begin an undercover operation to bring down Kuklinski. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users joi...
Jun 14, 2023•32 min•Season 26Ep. 5
Richard Kuklinski helps Sammy “The Bull” Gravano and John Gotti exact revenge after a tragic accident. Kuklinski learns new techniques for using poison from a fellow contract killer named Robert Pronge, whom Richard will say was the most dangerous man he ever met. And Richard begins to commit the series of murders that will come back to haunt him. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noiser+ for ad-free episodes and bi...
Jun 07, 2023•32 min•Season 26Ep. 4
Richard Kuklinski’s reputation as a professional killer grows when he takes centerstage in a shootout in Harlem, but the experience causes him to search for quieter, easier ways to fulfill his contract murders. He learns the value of poison and quickly becomes proficient in its use. But he returns to the old ways to reportedly participate in the infamous murder of Carmine Galante, the boss of the Bonanno Family. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportin...
May 31, 2023•33 min•Season 26Ep. 3
Richard Kuklinski meets Roy DeMeo, an associate of the Gambino crime family who will introduce Richard to the high-priced world of mafia contract murders. Richard travels the country to fulfill mafia contracts, some of which require the victim to suffer before dying. Richard develops terrible and creative ways to finish his victims, though he also enjoys sending them out with a bang when necessary. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join ...
May 24, 2023•32 min•Season 26Ep. 2
Richard Kuklinski grows up in New Jersey with an abusive father who terrorizes his children. Richard will become a larger, meaner version of his father, and he becomes a killer before his teenage years are done. He forms a gang and becomes involved in all manner of criminal activity. When his gang receives a contract from a mob family to kill someone, Richard finds his true calling. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join...
May 17, 2023•31 min•Season 26Ep. 1
This episode is a special preview of the audiobook version of Chris Wimmer’s book, “The Summer of 1876: Outlaws, Lawmen, And Legends In The Season That Defined The American West.” Pre-order the audiobook on Apple Books, Audible, Google Play, Audiobooks.com, and more! Pre-order the HARDCOVER until May 29, 2023: The Summer of 1876 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 10, 2023•33 min•Season 25Ep. 8
In this episode about Chris Wimmer’s book, “The Summer of 1876,” he reveals plans for a (mini) book tour and tells a story about the secrets behind The New York Times Bestseller List. (Mini) Book Tour: June 7, 2023 – Deadwood, South Dakota – The Adams Museum June 15, 2023 – Durango, Colorado – Maria’s Bookshop Pre-order until May 29, 2023: The Summer of 1876 Esquire Magazine: The Murky Path to Becoming a New York Times Bestseller Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...
May 03, 2023•12 min•Season 25Ep. 8
In 1943, Ray Schindler, one of the most prolific private investigators of all time, set out to crack what would turn out to be the biggest case of his career. Initially, it looked like a classic murder investigation. But, as Ray dug deeper, he found himself smack-bang in the middle of a conspiracy involving Nazis, corrupt tycoons… and… if you can believe it… the former King of England, Edward the 8th… This is Part One of Murder in Paradise. Part 2 is live now on the Detectives Don’t Sleep podcas...
Apr 26, 2023•49 min•Season 25Ep. 7
Charles and Caril have a final confrontation at the Ward home and then flee Nebraska. While they drive through Wyoming, the situation behind them in Lincoln, Nebraska explodes into pandemonium. When Charles attempts to steal a car on a lonely stretch of highway in eastern Wyoming, he provokes the final standoff with authorities. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noiser+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons. Cl...
Apr 19, 2023•30 min•Season 25Ep. 6
Charles and Caril spend the day at the home of C. Lauer Ward and Clara Ward. Clara and her maid, Lillian Fencil, become hostages. The day progresses smoothly until a confrontation in the afternoon turns violent. Meanwhile, police swarm August Meyer’s farm and make three heartbreaking discoveries, and the discoveries cause total panic in southeastern Nebraska. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noiser+ for ad-free epi...
Apr 12, 2023•34 min•Season 25Ep. 5
The conflict at August Meyer’s farm leads Charles and Caril to kidnap Robert Jensen and Carol King. The kidnapping ends with another gruesome murder scene before Charles and Caril hit the road again to escape to the west. But for reasons that have always sounded strange, they abandoned their escape plan and returned to Lincoln. They invade the home of a wealthy couple and take two hostages … right before the police make grisly discoveries around August Meyer’s farm. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-fre...
Apr 05, 2023•31 min•Season 25Ep. 4
Charles and Caril try to hide on a farm outside Lincoln, Nebraska, but the attempt goes tragically wrong. Back in Lincoln, friends and family members discover the grisly murders at Caril’s home. Law enforcement begins the manhunt, but they’re a step behind. Charles and Caril have already met their next victims. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join Apple users join Noiser+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons. Click the Noiser+ ba...
Mar 29, 2023•31 min•Season 25Ep. 3
The event that will terrorize and terrifying Lincoln, Nebraska begins in late January, 1958. Charles Starkweather plays a role in murdering three members of Caril Fugate’s family. According to Charles, Caril is his willing accomplice. According to Caril, she is a victim and a hostage of her crazed former boyfriend. As suspicion grows around the couple, they flee Lincoln, and the rampage continues. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join A...
Mar 22, 2023•30 min•Season 25Ep. 2
Charles Starkweather grows up in a working-class household in Lincoln, Nebraska, but he experiences turmoil at an early age. When he starts school, his classmates torment him relentlessly. Over time, he transforms himself into a fighter, and embraces the persona of a rebel of the 1950s. He falls in love with Caril Ann Fugate, but when he reaches his lowest point, he commits his first act of violence. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/joi...
Mar 15, 2023•34 min•Season 25Ep. 1
The eight thieves who robbed the Pierre Hotel don’t know it yet, but they escaped with a record-breaking haul. They divide the cash, and hide the jewels for safe keeping. Most of the robbers lay low, but Sammy Nalo is in a desperate situation. He’s deep in debt and he needs money fast. He convinces Bobby Comfort to help him sell some jewels, and their plan triggers the fallout that affects everyone. Check out Infamous America Executive Producer, Mandi Wimmer as the guest historian/expert comment...
Feb 22, 2023•34 min•Season 24Ep. 6
As the clock ticks toward the deadline to finish the robbery, tension builds within the gang of thieves. The leader, Bobby Comfort, wants to stop early, but his partner, Sammy Nalo, wants to keep working. Sammy is keeping a secret that could cause trouble for the crew, and the others will need to use force to pry him away from the safe deposit boxes. Despite the chaos, the crew exits the Pierre Hotel with millions of dollars worth of cash and jewelry. Check out Infamous America Executive Produce...
Feb 15, 2023•32 min•Season 24Ep. 5
In the predawn hours of January 2, 1972, eight men seize control of the iconic Pierre Hotel in New York City. They capture the employees and start to crack open the safe deposit boxes in the hotel’s vault. They hoped for a big score, but the jewelry and cash in the boxes is truly stunning. And then the problems begin. For two hours, they handle one unexpected surprise after another. Check out Infamous America Executive Producer, Mandi Wimmer as the guest historian/expert commentator on the Histo...
Feb 08, 2023•32 min•Season 24Ep. 4
At 3:45 a.m. on January 2, 1972, eight men begin their plan to rob the Pierre Hotel, one of the most expensive hotels in New York. Before they even arrive, they experience their first nerve-racking problem. It will be a sign of things to come, but they press on despite the close call. While most of the guests and resident are asleep, the robbers will gain control of the hotel and begin their work in the vault. Check out Infamous America Executive Producer, Mandi Wimmer as the guest historian/exp...
Feb 01, 2023•33 min•Season 24Ep. 3
Bobby Comfort and Sammy Nalo, two of the most successful jewel thieves in New York, decide to rob the vault of the iconic Pierre Hotel. They do extensive research and reconnaissance, and then they assemble their crew. The job requires eight men, plus the approval and support of the notorious Lucchese crime family. When everything is in place, they set the date of the robbery: January 2, 1972. Check out Infamous America Executive Producer, Mandi Wimmer as the guest historian/expert commentator on...
Jan 25, 2023•32 min•Season 24Ep. 2
