Podcast Summary: Papi Killed Mommy

Episode 14: Front Page and A&E
Host: Nikki
Release Date: January 25, 2026

Episode Overview

In this reflective and emotional episode, Nikki, the host and daughter of the victim at the center of this decades-long cold case, shares significant recent developments in her relentless pursuit for justice for her mother’s 1993 murder. Nikki discusses media recognition, legal updates, the mounting costs of accessing case files, and her dreams for a book that would tell her mother’s story. The tone is candid and raw, blending hope, frustration, nostalgia, and determination—a living record rather than a neatly packaged true crime story.

Key Developments & Discussion Points

1. Real-Time Podcasting and Listener Connection

[00:13]

• Nikki addresses listeners directly, explaining that the show has evolved into "a living record" of her journey.
• She notes the advantages of TikTok for real-time updates but promises that the podcast will continue providing in-depth, structured progress reports.
• Quote:
  • “This studio feels like my little confessional...these episodes exist to keep you updated on what’s happening with my mom’s case in real time. And if I’m being honest, they also exist because I need somewhere to put my thoughts other than the tiki talky.” (Nikki, 00:17)

2. Viral Videos and Stephanie Harlow’s Attention

[02:05]

• Nikki recounts how her series of TikTok videos, especially a compilation in December 2025, caught the attention of Stephanie Harlow, a prominent true crime creator.
• Stephanie Harlow’s approach is detailed, victim-focused—exactly what Nikki had hoped for in an advocate.
• Nikki shares her personal journey of fangirling over Crime Weekly and how an email led to direct communication with both hosts.
• Quote:
  • “She is the first creator I have ever trusted enough to send the interrogation tapes to. That alone, I think, says everything.” (Nikki, 05:51)

3. The Yavapai County Attorney Calls (Finally)

[07:36]

• After months of silence following a request for more investigation, Nikki receives a voicemail on New Year's Eve from the County Attorney’s office wanting to schedule a meeting.

• Nikki’s aunt reveals she had previously spoken to the office in 2023, adding layers to the family’s experience with authorities.

• Frustration emerges about delays, the need for public records (costly and slow), and her hopes versus realistic expectations for the February 27th meeting.

• Quote:

  • “What I expect are explanations, excuses, and reasons why they felt justified in doing nothing for decades.” (Nikki, 09:08)

• Public records requests are expensive, e.g., $200 for interrogation audio, often requiring support from friends and crowdfunding.

4. Civil Rights Attorneys & Legal Barriers

[11:20]

• With help from a media-savvy friend, Nikki prepared case packets and reached out to a list of civil rights attorneys in hopes of spurring legal action or media interest.
• Early responses were denials—an emotionally tough setback.
• Perseverance and patience are recurring themes.

5. Local Newspaper Front Page Feature

[12:55]

• The Cave Creek Carefree Independent ran a front-page story about Nikki’s case work—an important local milestone.
• Nikki’s pride leads her to collect multiple copies, frame them, and incorporate them into her home studio.
• She looks forward to eventually creating a studio filled with articles documenting every step of the fight for justice.
• Quote:
  • “One day this studio is going to be covered in articles and media about my mom... we can watch my artistic talents evolve as I frame each and every one.” (Nikki, 13:50)

6. The Book: Dreams, Struggles, and Crowdfunding

[14:30]

• Nikki discusses her ongoing effort to write a book about her mother’s case—her lifelong dream.
• Despite time off and support from AI, she struggles with organization and writing, recognizing the need for professional help.
• A ghostwriter emerges as a possibility, leading Nikki to launch another GoFundMe to raise necessary funds, acknowledging her discomfort with asking for money but stressing transparency.
• Quote:
  • “If we’re not going to get a documentary, then let’s get the book done.” (Nikki, 15:48)

7. Major Media Milestone: A&E Coverage

[16:22]

• Nikki discovers A&E published an article featuring her mother’s case among five cold cases highlighted by influencer Mikey Briati.
• Mikey covered her mom’s story on YouTube and TikTok, becoming one of the first creators to help amplify the case.
• Excerpt from the A&E piece (full summary at [19:00]):
  • The account presents the case narrative, quoting Nikki’s experience that “Papi killed Mommy” was repeated by her sister, and underscores the official failures to investigate.
• Quote:
  • “I want people to know that my mom, of course, did not shoot herself with her two children in the home three hours and 47 minutes after she had made plans to leave this man.” (Nikki, 21:55)
• A&E has not yet committed to a full story, but Nikki has taken initiative to contact the writer, hoping this coverage may inspire further attention.

8. Looking Forward: Advocacy and the Next Big Steps

[28:00]

• Nikki’s contract with her studio is ending in early February 2026, freeing her to share her story even more widely and possibly pursue documentary opportunities.
• Anticipation (and anxiety) builds as the critical February 27th meeting with the Yavapai County Attorney approaches—armed with all case documents, audio, and her community’s support.
• She recognizes the toll—financial and emotional—justice work takes but insists on seeing it through, even considering law school if necessary.
• Quote:
  • “Justice shouldn’t cost this much and it’s just a shame that it does.” (Nikki, 30:05)

Notable Quotes & Moments

• On podcast evolution:
  “This is more of a living record than a traditional true crime show.” (00:17)

• On Stephanie Harlow noticing her case:
  “I hit the fucking roof. For me, this was big time. Stars in my eyes, a full on fangirl moment.” (06:28)

• On costs and crowdfunding:
  “Every single time I request case files, audios, videos or photos, I have to pay for them. And it’s not cheap.” (09:54)

• On the meaning of A&E recognition:
  “After all these years, that is everything I could have hoped for... even small steps forward can feel enormous when you’ve been waiting decades like I have.” (27:02)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:13 – 02:05: Opening, personal context, real-time updates, TikTok engagement
• 02:05 – 07:00: The Stephanie Harlow connection, true crime media insights
• 07:36 – 11:20: County Attorney’s call, family dynamics, records/cost barriers
• 11:20 – 12:55: Civil rights attorney outreach, legal frustrations
• 12:55 – 14:30: Local front page feature, studio storytelling
• 14:30 – 16:22: The book project—challenges, ghostwriter, GoFundMe
• 16:22 – 25:30: A&E article coverage, Mikey’s role, personal validation
• 25:30 – 30:05: Looking forward—media rights, attorney meeting, resolve

Summary & Takeaway

In just 35 days, Nikki's journey for her mother's justice has seen meaningful media breakthroughs, emotional reckonings, and the ever-present reality of financial hurdles. The recognition from Stephanie Harlow and A&E represents long-awaited validation and hope, equaled by the pride in local coverage and the daunting but vital push to write a book. The podcast remains essential advocacy in real time—a lifeline for memory, a driver of accountability, and a testament to never giving up, no matter how incremental the progress.

“These things may feel small on their own, but together they remind me that progress is happening. That every day I spend advocating, every call I make, every story I share, it matters. It all matters. It’s not for nothing.” (Nikki, 29:25)