The Knife: Off Record – Episode 102 Summary
Release Date: April 3, 2025
I. Introduction to "Off Record"
In the inaugural episode of "The Knife: Off Record," hosts Hannah Smith and Patia Eaton embark on a new format that diverges from their traditional interview-based episodes. Instead, they engage in candid conversations, sharing insights and stories that haven't yet made it to their main podcast episodes. This transparent approach allows listeners to witness the hosts' genuine discussions and the intricate process behind their true crime journalism.
Hannah Smith kicks off the episode by highlighting the significance of recording all their conversations:
"We're recording our very first episode of the Knife Off Record, which we also understand is technically there's a record of it because we are recording it."
[00:25]
II. Listener Questions and Hosts' Responses
The episode features a segment dedicated to answering listener-submitted questions, offering a deeper understanding of the hosts' motivations and methodologies.
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Discovering Stories and Reaching Out to Subjects
Patia Eaton discusses the challenges of uncovering stories when potential interviewees are hesitant to participate:
"We find out everything we can and we're here to bring you those stories."
[00:42]Addressing a specific case, Hannah shares her experience of attempting to interview a pivotal figure who ultimately preferred to keep the discussion off the record:
"Everything you're saying is gold... but I don't want to do an interview."
[01:45] -
Preferred Types of Stories
Hannah Smith expresses a preference for complex and layered true crime stories:
"I love to dig into a story where there are a lot of layers... really complex, difficult to understand crimes."
[13:38]Patia Eaton complements this by highlighting her fascination with the psychological transformations within cults and the enduring hope inherent in missing persons cases:
"You never think it's gonna be you, and then it is, and you don't even know it for a long time."
[14:00] -
Handling Unresolved and Unsolved Cases
Both hosts acknowledge the emotional weight of unresolved cases, emphasizing their commitment to providing closure where possible:
"I think it's really exciting to see the developments in technology and how that's been able to bring resolution to cold cases."
[17:18] -
Securing Interviews Through Cold Calling
The duo delves into their strategies for building trust with potential interviewees, often through cold calls:
"It's building trust and being authentic."
[18:54]Patia Eaton elaborates on her approach:
"My name is Patia Eaton. I'm a producer based in Los Angeles, and I'm calling to ask you about whatever..."
[22:17]
III. Feature Story: The Missing Persons Case of Aaron Fox Foster and Jeremy Bechtel
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Patia Eaton's in-depth exploration of a two-decade-old missing persons case from Sparta, Tennessee. This narrative not only showcases Patia's investigative prowess but also underscores the emotional toll such cases take on families and communities.
Background of the Case
On April 3, 2000, Aaron Fox Foster (18) and Jeremy Bechtel (17) were last seen leaving a party at Bubba Cole's house in Sparta. Initial reports suggested they may have run away, possibly heading to Pensacola, Florida—an idea even Patia speculated upon during her investigation.
Patia Eaton recounts her first interaction with Jeremy's father, Ronnie Bechtel:
"Ronnie, you know, he's the nicest person. And he was like, yeah, what do you want to know."
[25:29]
Investigative Journey
Patia's relentless pursuit led her to numerous interviews, including a pivotal meeting with Rosa, a close friend burdened with survivor's guilt. Rosa provided crucial insights into the siblings' relationship and their desire to run away, which had been a recurring topic among their peer group.
"She was so close with Aaron Foster and carrying this with her all of these years."
[30:08]
Despite facing obstacles, including unresponsive family members, Patia's dedication never waned. Her breakthrough came when a YouTuber from the channel "Exploring with NUG" discovered the missing car submerged in the Calf Killer River in 2022—a discovery that concluded the long-standing mystery.
"Erin and Jeremy's remains were found in the car. The sort of suspected what happened in the case is that she probably lost control of the vehicle while driving and there were no guardrails at that time in certain areas, and the car went into the water."
[43:11]
Impact and Reflection
The resolution of this case brought immense relief to the families and highlighted the importance of persistent investigative efforts. Patia reflects on the profound significance of giving voice to those affected by unresolved cases:
"Someone feeling heard goes a long way in podcasting."
[47:59]
Hannah Smith adds her perspective on the value of revisiting cold cases:
"With missing persons cases and unsolved cases, sometimes just having attention back on it, you never know what piece led to what piece you reminding law enforcement again."
[48:36]
IV. What We're Listening To and Reading
In a departure from their usual content, Hannah and Patia share personal recommendations, offering listeners a glimpse into their current interests.
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Hannah Smith: "Sociopath A Memoir" by Patrick Gagne
Hannah delves into this memoir written by a clinical psychologist diagnosed as a sociopath. The book provides an intimate look into the author's life, exploring the nuances of sociopathy beyond common misconceptions. Hannah emphasizes the importance of understanding sociopathy as a neurodivergency rather than a result of trauma.
"It's like a neurodivergency. And she walks through being a young kid and watching her mom, like, try to teach her and her sister, like, life lessons and teach them empathy."
[51:53] -
Patia Eaton: "Guilty or Innocent"
Patia recommends the docuseries "Guilty or Innocent," which offers a unique perspective by following criminal trials from the defendant's viewpoint. The show prompts viewers to contemplate the broader implications of justice, the emotional costs for both the accused and victims' families, and the complexities of determining guilt.
"It's like, it happens slow, but it happens fast. Cause you're watching the clock on your own freedom, but it can sometimes be years."
[59:00]
V. Conclusion
As "The Knife: Off Record – 102" wraps up, Hannah and Patia express their gratitude to listeners for joining them in this new format. They encourage audience engagement by inviting stories and questions, reinforcing their commitment to uncovering and sharing impactful true crime narratives.
"This has been an exactly right production, hosted and produced by me, Hannah Smith."
[59:42]
Connect with The Knife:
- Instagram: @theknifepodcast
- Bluesky: @theknifepodcast.bsky.social
- Email: thenifexactlyrightmedia.com
Produced by:
- Hosts: Hannah Smith & Patia Eaton
- Producers: Tom Breifeogel & Alexis Amorosi
- Associate Producer: Christina Chamberlain
- Mixed by: Tom Breifogel
- Theme Music: Birds in the Airport
- Artwork: Vanessa Lilac
- Executive Producers: Karen Kilgariff, Georgia Hardstark, and Danielle Kramer
The Knife: Off Record – 102 offers a compelling blend of listener interaction, deep investigative storytelling, and personal insights, solidifying its place as a must-listen for true crime enthusiasts.