Among The Missing: "The Don’t Roar, They Meow - Part 1" Summary

Introduction

In the gripping first part of "The Don’t Roar, They Meow," hosted by Troy Taylor of FTM Media, the podcast delves deep into the mysterious disappearance of Elaine Park and other missing persons in the ominous Malibu Canyons. Released on May 16, 2025, this episode sets the stage for a two-part exploration, promising listeners a thorough investigation that challenges long-standing theories and introduces compelling new perspectives.

Setting the Scene: Malibu Canyons and Pacific Coast Highway

Troy Taylor paints a vivid picture of Malibu, contrasting its glamorous façade with the dark, secluded areas of the Malibu Canyons. He emphasizes the stark difference between the well-trodden, picturesque Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and the labyrinthine, remote trails where disappearances have occurred.

"If you've seen almost any movie or television show set in Southern California, chances are you've seen Pacific Coast Highway... Malibu is the playground of the rich and famous." [00:02]

However, beyond this polished exterior lies a maze of dirt roads and dense brush where isolation reigns, making it a hotspot for unexplained vanishings.

A Series of Unsolved Disappearances

Taylor recounts the unsettling cases of several individuals who have gone missing in the Malibu Canyons:

• Matrice Richardson: Disappeared on September 16, 2009, after being released from the Lost Hills Sheriff Station with no possessions other than the clothes on her back. Her remains were found eleven months later, but the cause of death remained undetermined.

• Matthew Weaver Jr.: Went missing on August 10, 2018, after sending distressing texts and later being heard screaming near Stunt Road, with his car found but no sign of him.

• Atelier Brillenberg: Disappeared on May 18, 2024, from the exclusive Sara resort area, adding to the growing list of mysteries.

"But there's one theory that is almost never mentioned. A theory you've probably never heard of or read about... they don't roar. They meow." [05:50]

Introducing the Mountain Lion Theory

Amid numerous theories surrounding these disappearances, Troy Taylor introduces a seldom-discussed hypothesis: mountain lions (puma concolor) as potential culprits. While the National Park Service (NPS) downplays the threat of these solitary predators, recent incidents suggest otherwise.

"In these remote canyons, where the cell signals vanish and those trails run for miles, there's another presence, one that's lived here long before the mansions and the movie stars... they don't roar. They meow." [05:50]

He cites a harrowing incident from Labor Day weekend 2024, where a mountain lion attacked a young child, challenging the NPS's assertion that such attacks are exceedingly rare.

Spotlight on Matthew Song's Investigation

Matthew Song emerges as a pivotal figure in this investigation. With a background in digital forensics and a personal stake in uncovering the truth behind Elaine Park's disappearance, Matthew has tirelessly pursued leads that many have overlooked.

"At the time I was probably a year or two divorced... someone... talking about their cousin going missing... the story caught my eye because... people don't go missing in Malibu." [09:30]

Matthew recounts his initial involvement, touching base with the Glendale Police Department and facing bureaucratic obstacles that only fueled his determination.

Discovering Evidence: Bones and Shifting Theories

Matthew details his discoveries in Solstice Canyon, including finding animal and possible human bones, which he believes could be connected to Elaine's case. His findings led to unsettling interactions with law enforcement, who dismissed his evidence as animal remains despite indications it could be human.

"And I started explaining the story of Elaine park, whatever. And he didn't really know. It's kind of a forgotten case at that place, I think." [15:21]

Matthew's skepticism towards the prevailing theories—ranging from cartel involvement to murder—drives him to explore the mountain lion angle more earnestly.

Interplay with Authorities: Suspicion and Frustration

As Matthew unearths more physical evidence, including a shirt and bones that may belong to Elaine, his relationship with the authorities becomes increasingly strained. He narrates instances where his contributions were either dismissed or met with suspicion, suggesting a potential cover-up or lack of interest in truly solving the case.

"I called the Glendale Police Department to turn it in. I know people would criticize and say, why didn't you call the police while you were there to go get it? They're not going to show up with the rangers to pick up a shirt." [22:38]

Additionally, Matthew's persistent efforts to communicate and share his findings are met with indifference or outright dismissal, leaving him feeling marginalized in his quest for answers.

Emerging Doubts and Implications

Towards the episode's conclusion, Troy Taylor raises critical questions about Matthew's involvement:

"Did Glendale Police Department really consider him a person of interest? If they did, it would be the first time they'd ever held someone in that position on Elaine's case, as far as I know." [35:30]

The narrative hints at deeper layers of suspicion surrounding Matthew, suggesting that his thorough involvement might have inadvertently placed him under scrutiny.

Conclusion and Looking Ahead

As Part 1 concludes, listeners are left with an intricate web of unanswered questions and the looming possibility that key individuals in the investigation might themselves be under suspicion. Part 2 promises to delve further into these complexities, exploring the unsettling intersections between Matthew's discoveries and his status within the investigation.

Notable Quotes

• "They don't roar. They meow." – Troy Taylor [05:50]
• "If you do park in Solstice Canyon, your signal dies." – Matthew Song [13:11]
• "The mountain lion theory didn't just come out of left field." – Matthew Song [18:24]
• "If they think you were potentially on the phone with someone who knew exactly what happened to Elaine." – Troy Taylor [35:30]

Further Engagement

Listeners intrigued by the unfolding mystery are encouraged to subscribe to "Among The Missing" on Apple Podcasts or Patreon for expanded interviews and bonus content. The podcast also offers a $25,000 reward for information leading to Elaine Park's whereabouts, accessible through their website.

Final Thoughts

"The Don’t Roar, They Meow - Part 1" masterfully intertwines personal investigation with broader investigative theories, presenting a compelling narrative filled with suspense and intrigue. As the search for Elaine Park continues, the podcast stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of truth in the face of daunting challenges.