Podcast
Hidden True Crime
Hosted by Hidden True Crime | Daylight Media · EN
Welcome to Hidden True Crime. Hosted by journalist Lauren Matthias and forensic psychologist Dr. John Matthias, Hidden True Crime explores the hidden motives, relationships, beliefs, and psychology behind some of the world's most compelling criminal cases.
Lauren spent a decade as a television reporter. Dr. John has conducted psychological evaluations since 1996, serves as an expert witness, and consults on high-profile cases.
Guest opinions and interviewees do not necessarily reflect those of Hidden True Crime, Lauren Matthias, or Dr. John Matthias.
This channel is for educational, informational, and commentary purposes only. Content is based on publicly available information, professional experience, and personal opinion. Nothing presented constitutes psychological, medical, or legal advice, or a formal diagnosis. All individuals discussed are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
80episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
She Married an Inmate on Death Row… Then Watched Him Die | Tiana Broadnax Interview
May 1802:16:40Tap to summarizeIn this deeply emotional and psychologically complex interview, Tiana Broadnax speaks out about marrying James Broadnax while he was on death row — and what it was like to witness his execution two weeks after the wedding. Tiana describes falling in love with a man convicted of double murder, fighting for his innocence, navigating the stigma of marrying a death row inmate, and ultimately watching the man she loved die at the hands of the state of Texas. Lauren Matthias challenges Tiana on the difficult questions many viewers may ask: Was this true love, trauma bonding, denial, redemption, or something more complicated? Together they explore grief, loyalty, faith, execution, innocence claims, public judgment, and the emotional reality of loving someone condemned by society. This is not just a story about crime — it is a story about human behavior, belief, morality, and the emotional complexity of love under impossible circumstances. Sponsors: IQBAR-Text HIDDEN to 64000 to get 20% off all IQBAR products, plus FREE shipping. Message and data rates may apply. Q30- For a FREE Q-Collar sleeve with your Q-Collar purchase, head to https://Q30.com/HIDDEN and use code HIDDEN. ASPCA Pet 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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Facial Expressions, Body Language,& What Kouri Richins’ Speech REALLY Revealed | Psychologist Reacts
May 1501:11:43Tap to summarizeJust before being sentenced for the murder of her husband, Eric Richins, Kouri Richins addressed the court in a dramatic sentencing statement that left many people questioning what was real, what was strategic, and what it revealed about her state of mind. In this episode, Lauren Matthias and forensic psychologist Dr. John Matthias break down Kouri’s sentencing speech, the heartbreaking victim impact statements from Eric Richins’ family and children, and the judge’s decision to sentence her to life without parole. Together, they analyze Kouri’s words, demeanor, emotional presentation, and courtroom behavior through both a psychological and investigative lens while unpacking the larger themes of grief, manipulation, narcissism, family trauma, and accountability that defined one of Utah’s most shocking murder cases. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Kouri’s WILD Statement After Sons Say They Fear Her | Richins Sentencing
May 1502:23:39Tap to summarize** This episode was originally recorded live. Kouri Richins has finally learned her fate after being convicted of murdering her husband Eric Richins in March of 2022 Sponsors: Brodo: Head to https://brodo.com/HTC for 20% off your first subscription order and use code HTC for an additional $10 off. First Day Life: Get up to 57% off and a free gift with code HIDDEN at https://FirstDay.com. #ad 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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Kouri Richin’s Sons Speak Out Before Her Sentencing
May 1200:50:21Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Hidden True Crime, Lauren Matthias breaks down the explosive filing in the Kouri Richins case, including chilling new allegations about the murder of Eric Richins, the state’s argument that Kouri “learned” from her first failed poisoning attempt, and the heartbreaking impact this case has had on the couple’s three young sons. Prosecutors reveal emotional statements from the children, including one son wearing his father’s clothes to school to feel close to him and another saying he would never feel safe if Kouri were released. We also unpack the prosecution’s claims of manipulation, greed, retaliation, and what they describe as Kouri’s “irredeemable character,” along with the massive restitution requests, protective orders, and the legal battle over whether she should spend the rest of her life behind bars. Sponsors: Rula- Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts for just $15 per session with insurance at https://www.rula.com/hidden #rulapod 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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“She Was Already Dead” | Prosecutors Reveal Chilling Timeline in Celeste Rivas Hernandez and D4VD Case
May 1000:40:27Tap 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
May 702:12:33Tap 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
May 301:05:31Tap 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
May 203:16:52Tap 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
Apr 2802:03:29Tap 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
Apr 2602:06:18Tap 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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