Podcast
Hidden True Crime
Hosted by Hidden True Crime | Daylight Media · EN
Hidden True Crime, explores the hidden motives behind unimaginable crimes, while examining our deepest fears along the way. Join us on a journey into the darkest recesses of the human mind and the unconscious motivations that drive human behaviors, both good and bad, in order to understand the world and ourselves. Pull up a chair at our dinner table as the dynamic husband and wife duo of Dr. John Matthias, a forensic psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes. What are they hiding? What are they hiding from? What remains hidden?
35episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
“She Was Already Dead” | Prosecutors Reveal Chilling Timeline in Celeste Rivas Hernandez and D4VD Case
6d ago00:40:27Tap to summarizeProsecutors say they now know exactly what happened to 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez — and the chilling timeline they’ve laid out against David Burke is more disturbing than many imagined. In this episode of Hidden True Crime, Lauren Matthias breaks down explosive new court filings. Sponsor ASPCA Pet Health Insurance: Explore coverage at https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/HIDDEN About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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“She Fought Until the End” | Haunting Closings & Verdict for Tanner Horner in Athena Strand Trial
1w ago02:12:33Tap to summarizeIn this emotional and disturbing breakdown, Lauren Matthias walks through the defense’s final attempt to explain Tanner’s behavior through trauma, autism spectrum traits, fetal alcohol exposure, and childhood neglect… before the prosecution delivers a devastating rebuttal witness from Tanner’s own past. We unpack the expert testimony, the battle over future dangerousness, the prosecution and defense closing arguments, and the jury’s final decision to sentence Tanner Horner to death. This episode also explores the psychological themes at the center of the case — remorse, manipulation, predatory behavior, and whether understanding someone’s past can ever explain unimaginable violence. Sponsors: Article: Get $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more at Article by visiting https://www.article.com/discount/hidden —discount automatically applied at checkout. Mint Mobile: Get Mint Mobile’s 3-month 5GB plan for $45 upfront ($15/mo) as a new customer at https://mintmobile.com/hidden About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Behind the Prophet: Samuel Bateman’s Rise to Power & What Netflix Missed
2w ago01:05:31Tap to summarizeSecrets, power, and belief—this episode unpacks the disturbing rise of Samuel Bateman and the system that allowed his abuse to flourish. From the origins of the FLDS and the influence of leaders like Warren Jeffs, to the isolation and unchecked authority that created an environment ripe for manipulation, we explore how control takes hold—and why it’s so hard to break free. At the center is Christine Marie, whose undercover work helped expose Bateman’s crimes and protect victims, while also challenging the narrative by showing that many within the community resisted and helped bring him down. This episode goes beyond the Netflix documentary Trust Me: A False Prophet to examine the hidden motives, missed opportunities for intervention, and the survivors now reclaiming their lives—reminding us that these systems don’t just exist in isolation… they grow in secrecy. Sponsor: First Day Life- Our listeners get up to 57% Off AND a Free Gift with code HIDDEN at https://FirstDay.com About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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DISTURBING New Details Just Revealed in Court by Tanner's Own Experts | Athena Strand Trial Recap
2w ago03:16:52Tap to summarizeIt's week 4 of the Tanner Horner trial and Lauren Matthias is here with all of the updates. The defense has now spent weeks trying to explain Tanner Horner—his autism, trauma, mental health, and the life that shaped him—but their own expert made something clear: he knew right from wrong, and the crime itself was horrific. In this episode, we break down the second week of defense testimony in the murder of 7-year-old Athena Strand, from teachers and pastors to ex-girlfriends and forensic psychiatrists, all painting a picture of a man who internalized pain… yet committed an unthinkable act. So the jury is left with the question at the center of this trial—how do these two versions of a person exist at the same time… and does any of it change what justice should look like? Sponsor: Jones Road Beauty: Use code HIDDEN 👉 https://jonesroadbeauty.com to get a free Shimmer Face Oil with your first purchase! #JonesRoadBeauty About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Tanner Horner Unmasked — The Psychology Behind the Athena Strand Case
2w ago02:03:29Tap to summarizeDr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, breaks down the penalty phase of the capital murder trial of Tanner Horner, the man convicted of killing 7-year-old Athena Strand. In this episode, we analyze emotional testimony from family members, claims of generational trauma, autism, and brain abnormalities, and the science presented to explain behavior. But do these factors actually help explain what happened—or are they being used to influence sentencing? This is a deeper look at what the jury is hearing, what it means psychologically, and the question at the center of it all: explanation vs. accountability. Sponsors: Wayfair: Way Day at Wayfair is April 25th-27th—shop up to 80% off with fast and free shipping on everything at https://wayfair.com Miracle Brand: Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to https://trymiracle.com/HIDDEN and use code HIDDEN to claim your free 3 piece towel set and save over 40% off. About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Did the Defense Help Tanner Horner… or Hurt Him? Brain Scans, Trauma & Key Testimony | Athena Strand
3w ago02:06:18Tap to summarizeThe defense begins in the capital murder trial of Tanner Horner, shifting the focus from the devastating final moments of 7-year-old Athena Strand to the life and mind of the man who killed her. In this episode of Hidden True Crime, Lauren breaks down emotional testimony from family members detailing generational trauma, addiction, and instability, alongside expert witnesses who introduce complex arguments around autism, lead exposure, and brain abnormalities. But as the defense builds its case for life without parole over the death penalty, prosecutors push back—emphasizing accountability, choice, and the undeniable brutality of the crime. With powerful courtroom moments, psychological insight, and critical analysis, this episode walks you through what the jury is now weighing—and what it could mean for justice in Athena’s case. Sponsors: Blissy: Wake up with clearer skin, smoother hair, and cooler sleep—use code HIDDEN for an extra 30% off at https://blissy.com/HIDDEN OneSkin: Get 15% off OneSkin with the code HIDDEN at https://www.oneskin.co/hidden #oneskinpod ASPCA:Visit https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/HIDDEN to explore coverage. About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Before “Trust Me”… She Lived It | A True Story of Belief, Control & a False Prophet | Dr Christine
3w ago01:30:04Tap to summarizeWith Netflix’s “Trust Me: A False Prophet” topping charts worldwide, many are just now learning about the rise and fall of Samuel Bateman. But years before that documentary, Dr. Christine Marie sat in my home and shared her own story of a false prophet. This interview—recorded six years ago—remains one of the most powerful conversations I’ve ever had. Because this isn’t just a story about one man… It’s about belief. How it forms. How it deepens. And how, in the wrong hands, it can be used as a tool for control. If you’ve followed Hidden True Crime, you know we’ve explored this before—from Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow to the Duggar family. This conversation with Christine may be one of the clearest examples of how it happens. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING LIKING AND HYPING Sponsors: First Day Life – Get up to 57% off + a free gift with code HIDDEN 👉 https://FirstDay.com BEAM – Get up to 35% off with code TRUECRIME 👉 https://shopbeam.com/TRUECRIME About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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BREAKING: Autopsy Reveals Mutilation as “Significant” Phone Evidence Emerges in Celeste Case | D4VD
3w ago00:29:39Tap to summarizeThe autopsy report is finally in—and the details are devastating. In this episode of Hidden True Crime, Lauren breaks down the official cause of death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, along with newly released evidence, courtroom revelations, and disturbing findings prosecutors say build their case against David Anthony Burke aka D4VD. Sponsor: Rocket Money- Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/TCP About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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BOMBSHELL Evidence Exposes "HORRIFIC" Plan to Silence Celeste Rivas Hernandez | D4VD Case
3w ago00:36:37Tap to summarizeA 14-year-old girl leaves home—and never comes back. In this episode of Hidden True Crime, Lauren breaks down the shocking case of Celeste Abigail Rivas Hernandez and the arrest of rising musician David Anthony Burke, who now faces charges including first-degree murder, continuous SA of a child, and mutilation of human remains. What began as an online connection between a young fan and a rising artist allegedly escalated into grooming, abuse, and ultimately a killing prosecutors say was carried out to silence her. From disturbing digital evidence and a Tesla concealing her remains for months, to the legal battle now unfolding in court, this episode walks through the timeline, the allegations, and the haunting question at the center of it all: how did this happen—and could it have been prevented? Sponsors: OneSkin- Get 15% off OneSkin with the code HIDDEN at https://www.oneskin.co/hidden #oneskinpod Blissy-Wake up with clearer skin, smoother hair, and cooler sleep—use code HIDDEN for an extra 30% off at https://blissy.com/HIDDEN About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Courtroom Audio Made Jurors SOB… Then Prosecution Rests | Athena Strand Trial
4w ago02:59:30Tap to summarizeThis week on Hidden True Crime, we break down the devastating capital murder trial of Tanner Horner, the man who has pleaded guilty to the kidnapping and murder of 7-year-old Athena Strand. With the prosecution now resting, jurors have been forced to sit through some of the most disturbing evidence imaginable—including chilling audio from inside the delivery truck where Athena spent her final moments, testimony from her grieving mother, and a timeline that reveals calculated actions, deception, and unimaginable violence. In this episode, Lauren walks you through each day of the trial, the emotional witness testimony, and the haunting details that continue to unfold. Sponsors: Brodo- Head to https://brodo.com/HTC for 20% off your first subscription order and use code HTC for an additional $10 off. Veracity- For up to 65% off your order, head to https://VeracityHealth.co and use code HIDDEN. About Hidden True Crime What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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