Podcast Summary: "Rewind with Karen & Georgia - 53: Live at The Orpheum"

My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
Episode: Rewind with Karen & Georgia - 53: Live at The Orpheum
Release Date: July 16, 2025
Network: Exactly Right and iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In this special rewind episode, hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark revisit Episode 53, originally titled "Live at The Orpheum," which debuted on January 26, 2017. The episode captures the energy and excitement of their first major live show in Los Angeles, coinciding with the Women's March. As they reminisce about the event, they share updated insights and commentary, blending their characteristic blend of true crime and comedy.

“This is exactly right.”
— Karen Kilgariff [00:01]

“Every Wednesday, we recap our old podcasts with all new commentary, updates, and insights.”
— Georgia Hardstark [00:25]

Live at The Orpheum

Karen and Georgia reflect on the chaotic and vibrant atmosphere of their live performance at The Orpheum Theater. They humorously discuss technical hiccups, such as the loud intro, and share anecdotes about interacting with fans and handling unexpected moments on stage.

“Madonna said fuck on CNN. It started. You know, that's been the cue that we've all been waiting for this whole time, man.”
— Karen Kilgariff [02:11]

They also delve into their on-stage banter, wardrobe choices, and the overall experience of performing live in a city as dynamic as Los Angeles.

“We're geniuses.”
— Georgia Hardstark [00:48]

Karen’s Story: The LA Ripper

Karen presents the chilling tale of Otto Wilson, known as the LA Ripper, a serial killer active in the 1940s. She narrates his gruesome crimes, including the brutal slashing and dismemberment of his victims, and his eventual capture and execution.

“She said, I got my horoscope told. Wednesday's my lucky day.”
— Karen Kilgariff [20:40]

Wilson’s troubled past, his violent tendencies, and the police investigation that ultimately led to his downfall are explored in detail. Karen emphasizes the horror of his actions and the impact they had on the community.

“He was mad that she was like basically being kind of greedy.”
— Georgia Hardstark [21:59]

Georgia’s Story: Greystone Mansion and the Doheny Murders

Georgia recounts the mysterious Doheny murders associated with the Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills. She delves into the history of the mansion, its original owner Edward Doheny, and the alleged cover-up of his son Ned’s involvement in the murders of two women during the Teapot Dome scandal era.

“And the district attorney then hit him with eight more felony child molestation charges.”
— Dave Anthony [65:55]

The narrative touches on the possible motives behind the murders, including political corruption and personal vendettas, and how the case remains shrouded in suspicion and unanswered questions.

“It's supposed to be cool, beautiful. But it's also supposed to be haunted.”
— Karen Kilgariff [45:11]

Guest Segment: Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds from The Dollop

Guests Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds join Karen and Georgia to share their own hometown murder stories. Dave narrates the case of Walter E. Ellis, Milwaukee’s North Side Strangler, detailing Ellis’s violent spree from 1986 to 2007, his evasion of justice, and eventual apprehension due to DNA evidence lagging behind his crimes.

“Between 1986 and 2007, 42 prostitutes were killed in Milwaukee. Only 31% of those cases have been solved.”
— Dave Anthony [95:20]

Gareth adds his perspective, contributing additional insights and humorous takes on the grim subject matter, ensuring the conversation remains engaging and informative.

“This strangler, that's fucked up.”
— Georgia Hardstark [95:53]

Conclusion and Reflections

As the episode wraps up, Karen and Georgia discuss the challenges and humorous moments of hosting guest storytellers. They reflect on the balance between covering serious true crime stories and maintaining their comedic edge, acknowledging the depth and darkness inherent in recounting such tales.

“That was an awesome murder.”
— Unknown [77:15]

They also brainstorm potential new titles for the episode, playfully referencing memorable moments and jokes from their live performance and discussions.

“That's a ripoff from a 30 Rock joke, okay?”
— Karen Kilgariff [98:40]

Notable Quotes

• “I have nothing to say because I'm sick of hearing men talk.”
  — Georgia Hardstark [03:47]

• “Love it. Love it.”
  — Georgia Hardstark [07:43]

• “He was mad that she was like basically being kind of greedy.”
  — Georgia Hardstark [21:59]

• “You guys need to have a team meeting.”
  — Dave Anthony [49:25]

Final Thoughts

"Rewind with Karen & Georgia - 53: Live at The Orpheum" offers listeners a nostalgic yet fresh look into a pivotal moment in My Favorite Murder’s history. Through engaging storytelling, humorous interactions, and insightful commentary, Karen and Georgia successfully transport both new and longtime fans back to an unforgettable live event, enriched with personal anecdotes and the enduring camaraderie that defines their podcast.

Note: Advertisements and non-content segments from the transcript were omitted to maintain focus on the core discussions and narratives.