Scams, Money, & Murder

True Crime This Week: Serial Killers

Date: December 28, 2025
Host: Vanessa Richardson
Podcast Network: Crime House / PAVE Studios

Overview

This episode of True Crime This Week focuses on two of the most infamous serial killers in American history: Ted Bundy and John Wayne Gacy. Host Vanessa Richardson delves into Bundy’s audacious escape from jail on December 30, 1977, and Gacy’s first murder on January 3, 1972, dissecting their backgrounds, psychological motivations, criminal careers, and the investigations that finally brought them to justice. The episode’s central theme: how the charm and charisma of serial killers allowed them to escape suspicion and enabled their horrifying crimes.

Key Discussion Points

1. Ted Bundy—The Charismatic Killer

Bundy's audacity and prison escape (16:58)

Bundy lost over 35 pounds in jail, intentionally slimming down to squeeze through a hole he’d cut in his cell ceiling.
- “Bundy piled up a bunch of books under a blanket on his bed to mimic the look of his sleeping body. Then he squeezed through the narrow hole and wriggled through the ceiling.” (Vanessa, 17:20)
He landed in the jailer's apartment, changed clothes, and calmly walked out into the Colorado cold.

Early life & psychological background (19:34)

Born Theodore Robert Cowell. Bundy’s early years were marked by family secrets (believing his mother was his sister), a sense of abandonment, and later, social awkwardness giving way to charm.
In high school and college, Bundy was charismatic and active in politics, yet deeply insecure and emotionally distant.

Manipulation and escalation (23:29)

The 5-year saga with Stephanie Brooks, which ended with Bundy dumping her to regain his sense of control: “He hadn’t wanted her back. He just wanted to be the one to end things.”
- “Bundy had decided he always wanted to be in control, especially when women were involved.” (Vanessa, 25:31)
Escalation from voyeurism to abduction and murder of young women, often using deception (fake casts or posing as a cop) to lure victims.

Victims & Modus Operandi (27:00 - 33:15)

Details of early victims, such as Linda Healy, Donna Manson, Janice Ott, and Denise Nasland, highlighting Bundy’s methods and the serial disappearances around Seattle and Salt Lake City.

Bundy’s Capture & Legal Battle (39:02)

Bundy’s arrest in Utah following a routine traffic stop, where police found troubling tools in his car.
- “The trooper searched Bundy’s Volkswagen and found rope, handcuffs, a ski mask, a crowbar and an ice pick.” (Vanessa, 40:00)
Conviction for kidnapping Carol DaRonch and eventual murder charges following forensic breakthroughs.

Dramatic jail escapes (46:58 & 54:00)

Bundy’s two jail breaks, aided by lackadaisical security and smuggled tools.
His aid came from friend Carol Ann Boone, who provided resources for his second escape.

Florida murder spree & ultimate capture (59:14)

After escaping, Bundy goes on to murder at the Chi Omega sorority and abducts 12-year-old Kimberly Leach.
Caught again due to a routine traffic stop; this time, there’s no escaping justice.

Conviction, confessions, and execution (1:06:12)

Bundy’s televised trial, his self-representation, and his desperate but futile legal maneuvers.
Noted for a chilling quote about his desire to control:
- “Ted Bundy always wanted to be in control—whether it was in his relationships, in court, or when carrying out a murder.” (Vanessa, 1:13:05)
In his final days, Bundy tried to bargain for his life with detailed confessions, but the families unanimously refused his deal.
Executed in 1989, the timing decided by the victims’ families.

2. John Wayne Gacy—Killer Clown in Suburbia

The first murder (1:15:19)

Gacy, already an upstanding member of the community, offered 16-year-old Timothy McCoy a place to stay. He murdered McCoy the following morning.
- “By the next morning, McCoy was dead and his body was in Gacy’s crawl space.” (Vanessa, 1:16:08)

Background and Double Life (1:17:00)

Gacy struggled to live up to his father’s masculine ideals due to health issues, yet was active in the community and business world.
- A rising star in the Jaycees, married into a family with KFC franchises, and heavily involved in civic organizations.
- Convictions for sexual assault in Iowa, but managed to maintain the façade of a model citizen on parole.

Return to Crime, and Building a Mask (1:24:41)

After being released on parole, Gacy quickly returned to predatory behavior, exploiting gaps in communication between states to avoid further jail time.

Community respect and the hidden horror (1:28:37)

Gacy’s participation as “Pogo the Clown” and his legendary neighborhood parties masked his gruesome activities.
- “His annual summer house parties were legendary. ... Guests only ever had one complaint. Gacy’s house smelled terrible.” (Vanessa, 1:30:10)

The dark turn: escalating murders and police blind spots (1:33:08)

Gacy’s marriage crumbled, and his crimes escalated: abductions and murders of teenage boys, using job opportunities, fake badges, and “magic tricks” with handcuffs.
Torture, sexual assault, and methodical burial in the crawl space or disposal in a nearby river.
The police often overlooked the disappearances due to victims’ backgrounds and Gacy’s social standing.

Unraveling & Arrest (1:43:33)

December 1978: 15-year-old Robert Piest disappears after meeting Gacy about a job.
Police Lt. Joseph Kozencak, a family friend, pursues the case doggedly, discovering Gacy’s criminal history and finding evidence via search warrant.

Confession, recovery of victims, and execution (1:50:45)

Gacy confesses to killing roughly 30 young men and boys; 29 bodies unearthed from his property, with more found in the nearby river.
Quick conviction and death sentence.
- Gacy’s reported last words: “Kiss my ass.” (Vanessa, 1:56:25)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Bundy’s psychology and control:

“Bundy had decided he always wanted to be in control, especially when women were involved.”
—Vanessa (25:31)
On why Bundy’s girlfriend reported him:

“The only reason Bundy was on their list to begin with was because his girlfriend Elizabeth had called and reported him as a suspect three times... But there were warning signs she couldn’t ignore.”
—Vanessa (36:50)
On Bundy’s escape preparation:

“He’d purposely slimmed down to make sure he could fit through the opening, and it seemed like he’d finally done it.”
—Vanessa (17:15)
On the dark irony of Gacy’s parties:

“His annual summer house parties were legendary... Guests only ever had one complaint. Gacy’s house smelled terrible.”
—Vanessa (1:30:10)
On Gacy’s ability to evade suspicion:

“Gacy was a pillar of the community. He was above suspicion—until December of 1978, when he suddenly wasn’t anymore.”
—Vanessa (1:42:00)
Comparing Bundy and Gacy:

“Looking back on this week in crime history, we can see how powerful a little charisma can be. Ted Bundy’s good looks and easygoing personality helped him avoid suspicion for years... John Wayne Gacy’s friends had so much fun at his parties that they never suspected that there were 29 bodies buried beneath their feet.”
—Vanessa (1:58:00)

Timestamps for Important Segments

[16:58] – Bundy’s jailbreak in Colorado
[19:34] – Bundy’s troubled childhood and family secrets
[23:29] – The Stephanie Brooks saga and need for control
[27:00] - [33:15] – Early victims and serial murders in Seattle/Utah
[39:02] – Bundy’s arrest and evidence found
[46:58] & [54:00] – Bundy’s two escapes from custody
[59:14] – Florida sorority house murders
[1:06:12] – Bundy’s trial, confession attempts, and execution
[1:15:19] – Gacy’s first murder: Timothy McCoy
[1:24:41] – Gacy’s return to crime and evasion of the law
[1:30:10] – The infamous house parties and rising suspicion
[1:43:33] – The disappearance of Robert Piest & investigation
[1:50:45] – Gacy’s confession, conviction, and infamous last words

Conclusion

The episode masterfully weaves together Bundy and Gacy’s criminal careers, underscoring how their public charm masked deadly intent. Vanessa Richardson warns listeners about the insidious nature of charisma and the importance of trusting one’s instincts about red flags. With compelling storytelling and chilling details, this episode is essential listening for true crime fans.

Host: Vanessa Richardson
Episode Theme: Serial Killers—Charisma, Manipulation, & Horror
Network: Crime House (PAVE Studios)

For ad-free and early access, subscribe to Crime House+ on Apple Podcasts.

Scams, Money, & Murder

True Crime This Week: Serial Killers

Date: December 28, 2025
Host: Vanessa Richardson
Podcast Network: Crime House / PAVE Studios

Overview

Key Discussion Points

1. Ted Bundy—The Charismatic Killer

Bundy's audacity and prison escape (16:58)

Bundy lost over 35 pounds in jail, intentionally slimming down to squeeze through a hole he’d cut in his cell ceiling.
- “Bundy piled up a bunch of books under a blanket on his bed to mimic the look of his sleeping body. Then he squeezed through the narrow hole and wriggled through the ceiling.” (Vanessa, 17:20)
He landed in the jailer's apartment, changed clothes, and calmly walked out into the Colorado cold.

Early life & psychological background (19:34)

Born Theodore Robert Cowell. Bundy’s early years were marked by family secrets (believing his mother was his sister), a sense of abandonment, and later, social awkwardness giving way to charm.
In high school and college, Bundy was charismatic and active in politics, yet deeply insecure and emotionally distant.

Manipulation and escalation (23:29)

The 5-year saga with Stephanie Brooks, which ended with Bundy dumping her to regain his sense of control: “He hadn’t wanted her back. He just wanted to be the one to end things.”
- “Bundy had decided he always wanted to be in control, especially when women were involved.” (Vanessa, 25:31)
Escalation from voyeurism to abduction and murder of young women, often using deception (fake casts or posing as a cop) to lure victims.

Victims & Modus Operandi (27:00 - 33:15)

Details of early victims, such as Linda Healy, Donna Manson, Janice Ott, and Denise Nasland, highlighting Bundy’s methods and the serial disappearances around Seattle and Salt Lake City.

Bundy’s Capture & Legal Battle (39:02)

Bundy’s arrest in Utah following a routine traffic stop, where police found troubling tools in his car.
- “The trooper searched Bundy’s Volkswagen and found rope, handcuffs, a ski mask, a crowbar and an ice pick.” (Vanessa, 40:00)
Conviction for kidnapping Carol DaRonch and eventual murder charges following forensic breakthroughs.

Dramatic jail escapes (46:58 & 54:00)

Bundy’s two jail breaks, aided by lackadaisical security and smuggled tools.
His aid came from friend Carol Ann Boone, who provided resources for his second escape.

Florida murder spree & ultimate capture (59:14)

After escaping, Bundy goes on to murder at the Chi Omega sorority and abducts 12-year-old Kimberly Leach.
Caught again due to a routine traffic stop; this time, there’s no escaping justice.

Conviction, confessions, and execution (1:06:12)

Bundy’s televised trial, his self-representation, and his desperate but futile legal maneuvers.
Noted for a chilling quote about his desire to control:
- “Ted Bundy always wanted to be in control—whether it was in his relationships, in court, or when carrying out a murder.” (Vanessa, 1:13:05)
In his final days, Bundy tried to bargain for his life with detailed confessions, but the families unanimously refused his deal.
Executed in 1989, the timing decided by the victims’ families.

2. John Wayne Gacy—Killer Clown in Suburbia

The first murder (1:15:19)

Gacy, already an upstanding member of the community, offered 16-year-old Timothy McCoy a place to stay. He murdered McCoy the following morning.
- “By the next morning, McCoy was dead and his body was in Gacy’s crawl space.” (Vanessa, 1:16:08)

Background and Double Life (1:17:00)

Gacy struggled to live up to his father’s masculine ideals due to health issues, yet was active in the community and business world.
- A rising star in the Jaycees, married into a family with KFC franchises, and heavily involved in civic organizations.
- Convictions for sexual assault in Iowa, but managed to maintain the façade of a model citizen on parole.

Return to Crime, and Building a Mask (1:24:41)

After being released on parole, Gacy quickly returned to predatory behavior, exploiting gaps in communication between states to avoid further jail time.

Community respect and the hidden horror (1:28:37)

Gacy’s participation as “Pogo the Clown” and his legendary neighborhood parties masked his gruesome activities.
- “His annual summer house parties were legendary. ... Guests only ever had one complaint. Gacy’s house smelled terrible.” (Vanessa, 1:30:10)

The dark turn: escalating murders and police blind spots (1:33:08)

Gacy’s marriage crumbled, and his crimes escalated: abductions and murders of teenage boys, using job opportunities, fake badges, and “magic tricks” with handcuffs.
Torture, sexual assault, and methodical burial in the crawl space or disposal in a nearby river.
The police often overlooked the disappearances due to victims’ backgrounds and Gacy’s social standing.

Unraveling & Arrest (1:43:33)

December 1978: 15-year-old Robert Piest disappears after meeting Gacy about a job.
Police Lt. Joseph Kozencak, a family friend, pursues the case doggedly, discovering Gacy’s criminal history and finding evidence via search warrant.

Confession, recovery of victims, and execution (1:50:45)

Gacy confesses to killing roughly 30 young men and boys; 29 bodies unearthed from his property, with more found in the nearby river.
Quick conviction and death sentence.
- Gacy’s reported last words: “Kiss my ass.” (Vanessa, 1:56:25)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Bundy’s psychology and control:

“Bundy had decided he always wanted to be in control, especially when women were involved.”
—Vanessa (25:31)
On why Bundy’s girlfriend reported him:

“The only reason Bundy was on their list to begin with was because his girlfriend Elizabeth had called and reported him as a suspect three times... But there were warning signs she couldn’t ignore.”
—Vanessa (36:50)
On Bundy’s escape preparation:

“He’d purposely slimmed down to make sure he could fit through the opening, and it seemed like he’d finally done it.”
—Vanessa (17:15)
On the dark irony of Gacy’s parties:

“His annual summer house parties were legendary... Guests only ever had one complaint. Gacy’s house smelled terrible.”
—Vanessa (1:30:10)
On Gacy’s ability to evade suspicion:

“Gacy was a pillar of the community. He was above suspicion—until December of 1978, when he suddenly wasn’t anymore.”
—Vanessa (1:42:00)
Comparing Bundy and Gacy:

“Looking back on this week in crime history, we can see how powerful a little charisma can be. Ted Bundy’s good looks and easygoing personality helped him avoid suspicion for years... John Wayne Gacy’s friends had so much fun at his parties that they never suspected that there were 29 bodies buried beneath their feet.”
—Vanessa (1:58:00)

Timestamps for Important Segments

[16:58] – Bundy’s jailbreak in Colorado
[19:34] – Bundy’s troubled childhood and family secrets
[23:29] – The Stephanie Brooks saga and need for control
[27:00] - [33:15] – Early victims and serial murders in Seattle/Utah
[39:02] – Bundy’s arrest and evidence found
[46:58] & [54:00] – Bundy’s two escapes from custody
[59:14] – Florida sorority house murders
[1:06:12] – Bundy’s trial, confession attempts, and execution
[1:15:19] – Gacy’s first murder: Timothy McCoy
[1:24:41] – Gacy’s return to crime and evasion of the law
[1:30:10] – The infamous house parties and rising suspicion
[1:43:33] – The disappearance of Robert Piest & investigation
[1:50:45] – Gacy’s confession, conviction, and infamous last words

Conclusion

Host: Vanessa Richardson
Episode Theme: Serial Killers—Charisma, Manipulation, & Horror
Network: Crime House (PAVE Studios)

For ad-free and early access, subscribe to Crime House+ on Apple Podcasts.

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True Crime This Week: Serial Killers

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Summary

Scams, Money, & Murder

True Crime This Week: Serial Killers

Overview

Key Discussion Points

1. Ted Bundy—The Charismatic Killer

2. John Wayne Gacy—Killer Clown in Suburbia

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Conclusion

Summary

Scams, Money, & Murder

True Crime This Week: Serial Killers

Overview

Key Discussion Points

1. Ted Bundy—The Charismatic Killer

2. John Wayne Gacy—Killer Clown in Suburbia

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Conclusion