Murder: True Crime Stories – BONUS: Interview with Great-Granddaughters of Black Dahlia Prime Suspect

Release Date: October 18, 2024

In this compelling bonus episode of Murder: True Crime Stories, host Carter Roy engages in a profound conversation with Rasha Picarero and Yvette Gentile, the great-granddaughters of George Hodel—a man suspected by some to be responsible for the infamous 1947 Black Dahlia murder. This episode delves deep into the intertwining of family legacy, trauma, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

1. Introduction to Guests and Their Work

Carter Roy warmly welcomes Rasha and Yvette, highlighting their dual roles as hosts of the podcasts Root of Evil and Facing Evil, as well as their involvement in the new series So Supernatural. He emphasizes the significance of their lineage and the unique perspective they bring to the table.

Carter Roy [05:03]: "Root of Evil is amazing... shows that true crime isn't just some sort of sensationalistic genre, it’s really a heartfelt thing for all those involved."

2. Unveiling Family Secrets and Trauma

Rasha and Yvette open up about the shadow of their great-grandfather, George Hodel, and the profound impact his alleged crimes have had on their family. They recount the early introduction to their family's dark history during their teenage years and the unsettling realization that their legacy is intertwined with one of America's most notorious unsolved murders.

Yvette Gentile [09:54]: "I think it was probably when I was in my early teens that I fully started to grasp... what was part of our DNA."

3. The Franklin House and Supernatural Encounters

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the Franklin House—originally known as the Soden House—where George Hodel lived. Rasha and Yvette share eerie experiences their family had while visiting the property, including paranormal encounters that reinforce the sinister aura surrounding the house.

Yvette Gentile [28:41]: "I felt like I was having an anxiety attack. And my mom all of a sudden started praying."

4. Steve Hodel’s Investigation and Its Influence

The conversation shifts to Steve Hodel, the great uncle of Rasha and Yvette, whose investigative work as an LAPD homicide detective has brought renewed attention to George Hodel’s potential involvement in the Black Dahlia murder and other unsolved cases. They discuss the emotional and psychological toll of following in his footsteps.

Rasha Picarero [24:31]: "He has always been dedicated to finding the truth... his father definitely killed."

5. Personal Struggles and Healing

Rasha and Yvette candidly discuss their personal journeys of healing from the trauma inflicted by their family's dark past. They highlight the role of their mother, Fauna Hodel, as a beacon of light and strength, emphasizing the importance of choosing kindness and finding community support in overcoming generational trauma.

Rasha Picarero [45:54]: "It’s been very healing and very beautiful."

Yvette Gentile [49:12]: "Always choosing kindness... find your village, find your people, find your helpers."

6. The Ongoing Quest for Truth and Closure

Despite the passage of decades, Rasha and Yvette remain hopeful that new evidence, particularly genetic advancements, might one day provide definitive answers regarding George Hodel’s culpability. They express a desire for closure, not just for themselves, but for the broader community affected by the Black Dahlia case.

Rasha Picarero [37:50]: "I definitely think he could have been a serial killer."

Yvette Gentile [39:09]: "It absolutely makes sense."

7. Legacy and Lessons for Future Generations

The episode concludes with Rasha and Yvette imparting essential life lessons rooted in their experiences. They advocate for leading with love and light, fostering kindness, and building strong communities to counteract the shadows of the past. Their message serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating resilience in the face of familial and historical darkness.

Yvette Gentile [48:28]: "Always choosing kindness... community will always hold you up."

Rasha Picarero [49:12]: "It’s okay to share your story... you can be a light in the darkness for someone else."

Key Takeaways

• Family Legacy: The profound impact of George Hodel’s alleged crimes on his descendants, shaping their personal and professional lives.

• Supernatural Elements: Eerie experiences at the Franklin House underscore the lingering darkness surrounding the Black Dahlia case.

• Pursuit of Truth: Steve Hodel’s relentless investigation highlights the complexities of solving cold cases intertwined with family secrets.

• Healing and Resilience: Emphasis on overcoming intergenerational trauma through kindness, community, and personal strength.

• Hope for Closure: Continuous hope for definitive evidence to finally resolve the mysteries surrounding George Hodel’s involvement in the Black Dahlia murder.

Notable Quotes

• Carter Roy [05:03]: "Root of Evil is amazing... shows that true crime isn't just some sort of sensationalistic genre, it’s really a heartfelt thing for all those involved."

• Yvette Gentile [09:54]: "I think it was probably when I was in my early teens that I fully started to grasp... what was part of our DNA."

• Rasha Picarero [24:31]: "He has always been dedicated to finding the truth... his father definitely killed."

• Yvette Gentile [48:28]: "Always choosing kindness... community will always hold you up."

Conclusion

This bonus episode of Murder: True Crime Stories offers a deeply personal and introspective look into the lives of Rasha Picarero and Yvette Gentile. Their narrative not only sheds light on the enduring mysteries of the Black Dahlia case but also illustrates the powerful journey of healing and transformation that emerges from confronting family darkness. Listeners are left with a poignant understanding of how true crime intersects with personal legacy and the enduring quest for truth and redemption.

For more insights and riveting true crime stories, follow Murder: True Crime Stories on your preferred podcast platform and connect with Crime House on Instagram @crimehouse.