Podcast Summary: Something Was Wrong
Episode: S23 E17: BTS with BCM - Case & Community Updates with The BCM Production Team
Released: June 5, 2025
Host: Tiffany Reiss
Produced by: Broken Cycle Media | Wondery

Introduction and Episode Overview

In this behind-the-scenes episode of "Something Was Wrong," host Tiffany Reiss teams up with the Broken Cycle Media (BCM) production crew to provide listeners with comprehensive updates on ongoing cases, community news, and the creation of new content. The episode delves into team introductions, recent achievements, legislative advancements, and heartfelt community interactions, all while maintaining the show's commitment to supporting survivors of crime and abuse.

Team Introductions

The episode begins with Tiffany introducing the production team in alphabetical order, emphasizing their diverse backgrounds and contributions to the show.

• Amy B. Chesler (02:02): Amy shares her journey with the podcast, highlighting her role as the host and co-producer of the spinoff show "What Came Next," now approaching episode 126. She reflects on her deep connection to the show's mission, particularly after sharing her mother's story in season seven.

  “You might recognize my voice from season seven of Something Was Wrong. I was gifted the opportunity and honor to share my mom's story...” (02:02)

• Lauren Barkman (03:07): Lauren, the social media manager, recounts her experience from season 20, where she met and worked with Jessica Pauley. Her role has expanded to managing the show's online presence and coordinating special events.

• Lily Rowe (03:59): As an associate producer, Lily reflects on her three-year journey from intern to a full-time member of the team. She highlights her responsibilities, including production assistance, organizing documents, and managing transcripts.

  “I can't ask for a better team to work with. You guys are incredible. It really is the best.” (05:10)

Team Dynamics and Staff Meetings

Tiffany and her team discuss the camaraderie and supportive environment within BCM. They highlight the significance of their Monday morning meetings, which blend work updates with personal check-ins, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

• Tiffany Reiss (06:23): Describes the evolution of her working relationship with Lily, emphasizing trust-building and the importance of delegating tasks.

  “I had to slowly build my trust and Lily was the best person to do with this...” (06:23)

• Amy B. Chesler (07:29): Shares her appreciation for the team's use of humor to cope with heavy topics, making the work environment both productive and enjoyable.

Awards and South by Southwest Event

The team reflects on their recent nomination for Best Crime Podcast at the I Heart Podcast Awards, held during South by Southwest (SXSW). Although they did not win, the recognition affirmed their hard work and dedication.

• Amy B. Chesler (14:27): Expresses awe and honor at attending the awards alongside fellow podcasters and creators.

  “I'm constantly in awe of everything that you do for survivors and just for society at large...” (14:27)

• Tiffany Reiss (14:44): Shares amusing encounters with celebrities like Ed Helms, highlighting the fun and surreal experiences at the event.

New Show: Credible Threat

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to announcing and promoting "Credible Threat," a new show set to launch on July 7, 2025. This series features in-depth interviews with experts in true crime, providing fresh perspectives and insights into notorious cases.

• Amy B. Chesler (23:07): Describes her experience producing "Credible Threat," praising the depth and expertise of the show's guests.

  “It's been really, truly incredible to watch Lenora and Chris work. They're just two really warm, open, honest humans...” (23:07)

• Tiffany Reiss (24:24): Highlights the expertise of guests like Dr. Chris Mohandi and Lenora Claire, noting their contributions to the true crime genre.

  “Dr. Chris Mohandi is a forensic psychologist and Lenora Claire is not only a stalking survivor herself, she's also an advocate...” (24:24)

The team also announces a "Credible Threat" launch party scheduled for July 13th at St. Felix in Hollywood, encouraging listeners to follow their social media for more details and opportunities to participate.

Legislative Updates

Tiffany updates listeners on recent legislative victories that impact survivors and address issues related to online safety and abuse.

• Senate Bill 151 in Indiana (26:04): Originally championed by survivor Dara, this bill now allows rape prosecutions beyond the statute of limitations if DNA evidence is discovered within ten years.

  “Senate Bill 151 became Public Law and this law specifies that a prosecution for rape as a level three felony that is barred by the statute of limitations may still be brought within 10 years from the discovery of DNA evidence.” (26:04)

• The Take It Down Act (29:25): This bipartisan law makes it illegal to publish intimate images without consent, including AI-created deepfakes, and mandates prompt removal by platforms upon victim notification.

  “It's now illegal to knowingly publish or threaten to publish intimate images without a person's consent, including AI created deepfakes.” (29:25)

Tiffany emphasizes the importance of these laws in protecting survivors and holding tech companies accountable for the content they distribute.

Case Updates

The episode provides updates on ongoing cases featured in the podcast, reflecting BCM's commitment to keeping their community informed.

• Amy Chesler's Case (32:05): Amy discusses her relentless pursuit of justice for her mother’s murder, detailing recent parole developments for her brother.

  “My brother received 36 years to life. There'll never be enough words to express my gratitude for your presence there that day...” (33:06)

  Amy reveals a recent postponement of her brother's parole hearing from June 2025 to 2030, providing a partial victory while underscoring the ongoing challenges survivors face within the justice system.

• Caitlin Braun's Case (35:22): Tiffany updates listeners on Caitlin Braun, who was sentenced for fraudulent activities related to fake pregnancies. Despite previous house arrest, Braun reoffended, leading to potential imprisonment.

  “It's so apparent to everyone that Kaitlin was going to reoffend and unfortunately that proved to be true.” (38:00)

Community Event in Austin

Following their nomination at SXSW, the BCM team hosted a community event in Austin, Texas, which served as an opportunity to connect with listeners and survivors in person.

• Amy B. Chesler (17:04): Shares a moving interaction where a survivor expressed how the podcast validated her experiences, reinforcing the show's impact.

  “I was literally covered in goosebumps in this moment. And in that moment it just validated why I do what I do...” (17:04)

• Lauren Barkman (39:10): Reflects on attending a wedding in Iowa with survivors, highlighting the emotional significance and the bittersweet memories associated with past hardships.

  “Monica and Kitten are such a beautiful couple and it was just so nice to see a happy ending come of it.” (39:10)

Dealing with Jessica Pauley and Related Updates

A substantial part of the episode addresses ongoing concerns regarding Jessica Pauley, a figure connected to multiple survivor stories. The team shares recent disturbing interactions and updates related to efforts to hold her accountable.

• Lauren Barkman (40:21): Criticizes the lack of police response and ongoing harassment attempts by Jessica, highlighting the frustration and emotional toll it takes on survivors.

  “It's deeply hard for me to understand because if it's me and somebody has accused me of stalking them... I just don't get it.” (40:21)

• Tiffany Reiss (45:55): Emphasizes the importance of survivors continuing to fight for justice despite systemic obstacles.

• Lauren Barkman (51:46): Shares the exasperation and betrayal felt upon receiving a disingenuous apology from Jessica Pauley, highlighting the manipulative tactics used by perpetrators.

  “It makes me upset to read it because she's weaponizing her son and it's just not fair to him.” (50:56)

• Read Text Message Exchange (51:46): Tiffany narrates a poignant exchange where a survivor's friend unequivocally rejects Jessica Pauley's attempted reconciliation, underlining the unwavering support among the BCM community.

  “You have zero remorse. Per the things I've seen via social media... It was so nice to talk to people that like you like the show because I feel like a lot of the feedback I get...” (51:46)

This segment underscores the resilience of the survivor community and the ongoing battle against manipulation and lack of accountability from abusers.

Conclusion and Acknowledgments

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks to the entire BCM team, partners, and especially the survivors who trust the podcast with their stories. Tiffany extends gratitude to everyone involved in making the show possible and highlights the importance of community support.

“Thank you endlessly to every survivor who has ever trusted us with their stories. And thank you each and every listener for making our show possible with your support and listenership.” (55:40)

Listeners are encouraged to explore episode notes for additional resources, content warnings, and links to support organizations featured throughout the episode.

Key Takeaways

• Team Unity: The Backbone of BCM's Success
  The episode highlights the strong bonds and collaborative spirit within the BCM team, essential for producing sensitive and impactful content.

• Recognition and Growth:
  Being nominated for awards and expanding into new shows like "Credible Threat" signifies BCM's growing influence in the true crime and survivor support communities.

• Legislative Advocacy:
  Updates on Senate Bill 151 and the Take It Down Act illustrate BCM's active role in advocating for legislative changes that protect and empower survivors.

• Ongoing Struggles for Justice:
  Personal stories, such as Amy Chesler's fight for her mother's justice, and updates on Caitlin Braun's case, highlight the persistent challenges survivors face within the legal system.

• Community Engagement:
  Events like the Austin gathering demonstrate BCM's commitment to fostering a supportive and connected survivor community.

• Addressing Perpetrator Accountability:
  The detailed discussion on Jessica Pauley underscores the importance of holding abusers accountable and supporting survivors in their healing journeys.

Notable Quotes

• Amy B. Chesler

  “I don't even know if we'll ever know the ripple effects of the season itself...” (11:46)

• Tiffany Reiss

  “We take the work seriously, but not ourselves.” (09:38)

• Lauren Barkman

  “It's so rewarding and valuable. It doesn't feel like coworkers. It feels like family.” (07:29)

• Amy B. Chesler

  “A Survivor came up to me and said... I wasn't alone.” (18:50)

• Tiffany Reiss

  “Credible Threat is a brand new show that will be launching 77 2025.” (22:05)

Stay Connected:
For more updates, resources, and support highlighted in this episode, visit the episode notes or follow Something Was Wrong on social media.

Next Episode Preview:
Stay tuned for the next episode where Tiffany delves deeper into the ongoing cases and unveils more behind-the-scenes insights with the BCM team.

This summary captures the essence of Episode 17 from Season 23 of "Something Was Wrong," providing a comprehensive overview of the discussions and updates shared by the Broken Cycle Media production team.