Secret Passage Podcast

In the final episode of our three-part series on the JonBenét Ramsey case, we reflect on our emotional journey, share our final conclusions based on the available evidence, and look at the media's role in the case. We unpack how early police leaks, media sensationalism, and confirmation bias shaped public perception. Disturbingly, the media played a role in objectifying a six-year-old girl, vilifying her parents, and fueling decades of misinformation. A powerful cautionary tale about narrative manipulation, cognitive traps, and the human cost of rushed judgment—this wrap-up challenges listeners to question what we think we know and how we...

In the second part of our three-part series on the JonBenét Ramsey case, we delve into the theories that have kept the case alive for nearly 30 years. Was it a vengeful intruder targeting John Ramsey, was it a tragic accident covered up in panic, or did the murderer have sexual motives? We unpack the conflicting evidence—the three-page ransom "essay" written on Patsy Ramsey's notepad, the crime scene with its sadistic elements like the garrote, and the unknown male DNA that exonerated the Ramseys but remains unidentified—while exploring psychological angles, family dynamics, and the enduring fascination with the case...

On the morning after Christmas 1996, six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey vanished from her family's lavish Boulder home—only for her parents to discover a bizarre, three-page ransom note demanding $118,000 and threatening her life. Hours later, her body was found in the basement, beaten, strangled, and bound in a scene that launched one of America's most enduring mysteries. We dive into the haunting details of this case: the infamous ransom letter written on the family's own notepad, the botched police response that contaminated the crime scene, and the swirling theories. With fresh DNA testing and interviews advancing the investigation nearly 30 years later, par...

In January 2007, 21-year-old Channon Christian and 23-year-old Christopher Newsom were carjacked at gunpoint after sharing a kiss in a Knoxville apartment building parking lot. What began as a robbery quickly turned into 24 hours of unimaginable physical and sexual assault and eventually murder at the hands of five strangers. Eighteen years later, this remains one of the most sadistic crimes in modern American history. In our final episode of the fall season we tell Christopher and Channon's story. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Secret Passage Podcast will return after the holidays.

Five-year-old Kinsleigh Welty spent the last months of her life locked in a feces-covered closet, starved to 21 pounds by the mother who called her a demon. Despite repeated removals for abuse and neglect, Indiana DCS kept handing her back due to policies that prioritize family reunification. Text messages between her mother and grandmother reveal chilling cruelty and apathy. We unpack the massive failures that led to this preventable death. Listener discretion strongly advised.

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers<...

In this episode we examine the tragic hot-car death of 2-year-old Parker Scholtes in Marana, Arizona, on July 9, 2024. Her father, Christopher, a stay-at-home dad struggling with alcohol addiction, left Parker in a parked SUV for three hours while he drank beer, watched porn, and played video games—leading to her fatal heatstroke at an internal temperature of 108.9 °F. We explore the role of addiction, the distraction of explicit content, the family's response, and Christopher's suicide days before sentencing. Ultimately, this is a cautionary story about the lethal dangers of alcohol, inattention, and the false sense of security that "it can...

In this week's episode, we dive into the disturbing case of Jesse Mack Butler, an 18-year-old Oklahoma high school baseball player convicted of raping and strangling two teenage girls he had been in relationships with, nearly killing one. Butler received a light sentence with no jail time after he was given youthful offender status. The victims, victims' families, and the commmunity are outraged. We explore why the lenient outcome sparked outrage and what it reveals about prosecuting rape. Listener discretion advised.

Secret Passage Podcast...

In this week's Halloween episode we discuss Stanley Kubrick's The Shining. We love this movie! We look at this masterpiece through the lenses of the Gothic, addiction, narcissism, and intergenerational trauma. 

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Editor: Mitch Silver

This week we discuss female pedophiles examining the cases of teachers Christina Formella, 30, accused of abusing her 14-year-old student and Mary Kay Letourneau, who groomed 12-year-old Vili Fualaau, bore his children, and married him post-prison. We look at cultural biases that result in lighter sentences for female perpetrators and the underreporting of abuse of male victims. We question arrested development, impulsivity, and the emotional motivations behind these crimes.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Edi...

In this episode we look at social media influencer culture, focusing on the tragic case of Emilie Kiser whose young son drowned in the family pool. We explore the intense public backlash Kiser faced upon returning to social media, highlighting the toxic dynamics of parasocial relationships and the attention economy. We unpack the costs of influencer fame and the toll of living under public scrutiny. Join us for a thought-provoking look at empathy, blame, and the blurred lines between authenticity and artifice in the digital age.

Join us for a chilling start to the fall 2025 season of the Secret Passage Podcast as we dive into the heartbreaking case of Laken Snelling, a 21-year-old University of Kentucky cheerleader accused of secretly giving birth to and then killing her newborn in a shocking act of neonaticide. We explore the complex issues behind neonaticide, drawing parallels to cases like Amy Grossberg and Brian Peterson, Brooke Skylar Richardson, and Gail Eastwood-Ritchie.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Ro...

In our season finale episode we explore the shocking case of Emily Long, a New Hampshire mother who killed her husband, two of her children, and herself in August 2025.

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of Secret Passage, we revisit the Columbine High School shooting, exploring the events, timeline, and devastating impact of the attack carried out by Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. We discuss the warning signs, systemic failures, and psychology of the perpetrators. We reflect on the broader societal implications, including school safety protocols and the role of bullying, while emphasizing the importance of recognizing and acting on red flags to prevent future tragedies.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, we dive into the chilling case of Paris Lee Bennett who murdered his four-year-old sister in 2007. We explore the psychological and environmental factors that may have contributed to his actions, drawing parallels to the recent murders of Jessica Lyman and her son Eli Painter. We look at the neuroscience of psychopathy, referencing Dr. James Fallon's research on the "psychopath brain" and the potential for early intervention to prevent violent outcomes.   Links:   James Fallon's book The Psychopath Inside:   https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17707530-the-psychopath-inside   Greater Good Science Center interview with James Fallon:  

In this episode, we discuss Savannah (Shannon Wilsey), a prominent figure in the adult industry, whose early trauma and struggles with addiction shaped her turbulent journey. We speculate about the factors that may have led to her battle with addiction and ultimately her suicide. We reflect on the evolving landscape of the adult industry, examining shifts in mental health awareness, and the impact of the digital age.

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

In this episode we discuss Ghislaine Maxwell, exploring her privileged upbringing, her role as Jeffrey Epstein's enabler, and the psychological factors that may have driven her actions. We look at the dynamics of power, manipulation, and class that fueled her complicity in Epstein's sex trafficking network. We explore the broader implications of such predatory behavior and share our thoughts about how we can protect our youth from similar exploitation.

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim...

In this episode of the Secret Passage podcast, we dive into the chilling Idaho Four murder case, exploring the tragic events, the investigation, the media's handling of the case, and the emotional toll on victims' friends and families. We look at the psychology of Bryan Kohberger, and discuss how early intervention might prevent such tragedies.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod TikTok @secretpassagepodcast

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode of the Secret Passage podcast, we explore the tragic story of Katie Meyer, a star Stanford soccer player and team captain who took her life in 2022 after facing a harsh disciplinary process. We discuss the institutional failures of Stanford's Office of Community Standards, which pursued action against Meyer for spilling hot coffee on a football player in defense of a teammate, despite neither party wanting to escalate the issue. We look at the immense pressure Meyer faced, the lack of mental health support, and the resulting Katie Meyer's Law, which ensures students have an outside advocate during...

In this episode of The Secret Passage Podcast we discuss Madison Holleran, a 19-year-old University of Pennsylvania student and elite athlete who died by suicide in 2014. Despite her outward success and curated social media presence, Madison struggled with the transition to college life and became depressed. We discuss how societal expectations, social media, and unrecognized mental health struggles can create a silent crisis, even in those who seem to "have it all."    Links:   What Made Maddy Run by Kate Fagan:   https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/kate-fagan/what-made-maddy-run/9780316356534/?lens=little-brown   Madison Holleran Foundation:   https://www.madisonholleranfoundation.org/   Suicide Prevention Resource Center:   https...

In this episode we explore the controversial Byron Smith case, the murders of Haile Kifer and Nicholas Brady. We discuss the legal and ethical questions surrounding self-defense, the Castle Doctrine, and the impact of military service and trauma on mental health.

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Editor: Mitch Silver

This week's episode provides a sneak peek into the kind of content we offer on our Patreon. Our producer, Tim, interviews us as we revisit the Prepper episode together. Join us!   Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Editor: Mitch Silver

Join us for the season finale of the Secret Passage Podcast. We look at the world of parasocial relationships, exploring how social media and influencers create an illusion of intimacy that fuels both fandom and fierce criticism. From nostalgic celebrity crushes to the devastating impact of online shaming, we unpack the emotional pull of digital connections and the dark side of snark communities. Touching on recent influencer tragedies, mimetic desire, and the psychological toll of public shaming, we question our investment in curated lives and call for more empathy in a hyper-connected world. Join us for a look at how...

Join us as we dive into the world of prepping. From chasing crows to save baby bunnies to dodging wildfires, we share what sparked our interest in prepping. Why do we resist preparing for disasters like earthquakes, wildfires, or even a zombie apocalypse? We explore psychological barriers, debunk myths about preppers, and offer practical tips to start small. Come along with us as we discuss self-sufficiency, community, and surviving chaos.    Links:   The Urban Prepper - Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@theurbanprepper

Doomsday Preppers: National Geographic

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/show/6e70ab41-6da6-47...

In this special episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, co-host Shannon Rogers interviews Dana Vespoli for an intimate look into her life and career. From her journey in the adult industry to her reflections on its challenges and evolution, Dana shares personal stories, professional insights, and her recent spiritual journey.    Join our Patreon community!   www.patreon.com/SecretPassagePodcast   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Editor: Mitch Silver

In this episode we explore the Vietnam War, focusing on the My Lai Massacre as a lens to examine the psychological toll of war and the fragility of human morality.   Links:   Kill Anything That Moves by Nick Turse  https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250045065/killanythingthatmoves/   Vietnam War Timeline:  https://www.history.com/articles/vietnam-war-timeline  

This week we discuss kidfluencers, exploring the ethical implications and parental responsibilities associated with children in the digital entertainment space. We look at the complexities surrounding child influencers, the psychological impacts on children, and the dilemmas faced by parents. 

Links:

Mom Uncharted:

https://www.momuncharted.com/

Bad Influence: The Darkside of Kidfluencing

https://www.netflix.com/title/81728889

Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke

https://press.hulu.com/shows/devil-in-the-family-the-fall-of-ruby-franke/

Kidfluencers:

https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/kidfluencers/umc.c...

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, we look at the life of Jayne Mansfield, 1950s Hollywood icon and proto-influencer. We explore her rise to fame, her branding and marketing savvy, her complex relationships, her tragic death, and her enduring impact on celebrity culture.   Links:   Jayne Mansfield and the American Fifties:   https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Martha-Saxton/dp/0553025562   Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Editor: Mitch Silver

This week's episode provides a sneak peek into the kind of content we'll offer on our upcoming Patreon. Our producer, Tim, interviews us as we revisit the Dubai Porta Potty Parties episode together. Join us as we discuss our favorite moments from the Porta Potty episode, our worthless college degrees, youthful mischief, and much much more.    Like, subscribe, and follow us. Here's how: Instagram @secretpassagepodcast X @secretpasspod

Secret Passage Podcast is hosted by Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers

Producer: Tim Rogers

Editor: Mitch Silver

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This week we discuss the heartbreaking case of Gabriel Fernandez, an eight-year-old boy from Palmdale, California, who was brutally abused and murdered by his mother, Pearl Fernandez, and her boyfriend, Isauro Aguirre, in 2013. We explore the systemic failures that allowed the abuse to continue despite multiple reports from family, Gabriel's teacher, and a security guard.    Links:   The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez:  https://www.netflix.com/title/80220207   Murder In America: The Torture and Murder of 8-Year-Old Gabriel Fernandez:   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-99-california-the-torture-and-murder-of-8/id1547409175?i=1000600169959   Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline:  https://www.chil...

This week we explore Dubai porta potty parties, where influencers and Only Fans models are allegedly paid exorbitant sums for degrading acts. We discuss addiction, porn's cultural impact, and Dana's experience in the adult industry. This episode (trigger warning: graphic content) mixes humor, horror, and introspection—perfect for those with an iron stomach and a taste for the bizarre. Listener discretion is advised.       Links:   Article about Only Fans model Maria Kovalchuk:   https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/onlyfans-model-found-on-side-of-the-road-with-broken-spine-report/   Medium article by Gal Darrash:   https://medium.com/@galdarrash/the-dubai-porta-potty-is-the-end-product-of-the-digital-crisis-b644090a379e   The Biology of Desire: Why Addiction Is Not a Disease:   https://www...

This week we discuss the Casey Anthony case and her emergence as a TikToking, Substacking legal advocate. Rather than rehashing the trial, we speculate on what drives Casey's audacity and apparent lack of remorse, drawing parallels to psychopathy and narcissism. We examine her family dynamics, the infamous 911 call, and the chilling Firefox search history (including "foolproof suffocation") that the prosecution overlooked. Was Caylee's death an accident or a calculated act by a mother who saw her child as an obstacle? We wrestle with these questions, blending behavioral analysis with personal reflections on compassion, forgiveness, and the limits of understanding someone...

This week we discuss Eli Roth's Hostel and Hostel: Part II, exploring the films' subversive take on class, power, and the "Elite Hunting Club" where rich predators torture unsuspecting travelers. From Paxton's revenge in the first film to Beth's brutal escape in the second, we unpack horror's cultural commentary, touching on the abject, dehumanization, and real-world parallels like the depravity of Diddy and Jeffrey Epstein. We also reflect on Eli Roth's genius, humor, and how much we both enjoyed these films. Both films feel like special gifts to horror film fans. Shannon shares her unpopular take that Hostel Part...

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, Dana and Shannon explore the complexities of modern pornography and sites like Only Fans, particularly focusing on Lily Phillips and Bonnie Blue. They discuss the implications of sex work, the ethical dilemmas surrounding pornography, and Dana shares her personal reflections on her experiences in the industry. 

Links:

The Case Against the Sexual Revolution:

https://www.wiley.com/en-us/The+Case+Against+the+Sexual+Revolution-p-9781509550005

Article about the book:

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2022/jun/06/the-case-against-the-sexual-revolution-by-louise-perry-review-an-act-of-insurrection-a-new-guide-to-sex-in-the-21st-century

Like, su...

In this episode, Dana and Shannon discuss the Kassenoff case, a highly contentious divorce and custody battle that highlights issues of parental alienation, abuse, and the complexities and of the family court system. They explore the dynamics between Catherine and Allan Kassenoff, their treatment of their children, and the implications of their actions on the family. The conversation delves into the systemic failures within family courts and the challenges faced by parents in custody disputes. This conversation delves into the complex and tragic story of a custody battle that culminated in assisted suicide, exploring themes of family dynamics, media...

Hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers discuss the films The Substance and Promising Young Woman, exploring themes of feminism, The Gothic, biblical imagery, and the social pressures faced by women as they age. 

Links:

The Substance IMDB page:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt17526714/

Promising Young Woman IMDB page:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9620292/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1

Men, Women, and Chain Saws: Gender in the Modern Horror Film by Carol Clover:

https://press.princeton.edu/books/paperback/9780691166292/men-women-and-chain-saws

Trauma and Recovery b...

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers discuss the adult industry, focusing on the tragic case of Stephen Clancy Hill, a lesser-known male performer (a "mope") who committed a violent crime. They discuss the implications of his actions, the treatment of male performers in the industry, and the absurdity of porn highlighting the issue of addiction and the human search for meaning in seemingly meaningless pursuits.

Links:

Articles about Stephen Clancy Hill:

https://www.salon.com/2010/06/09/stephen_hill_porns_lost_boys/

https://www.salon...

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers explore the tragic case of Lindsay Clancy, a mother charged with the murder of her three children, and the complexities surrounding postpartum psychosis. They explore the nuances of mental health, societal expectations of motherhood, and the stigma that often prevents women from seeking help. The conversation also touches on the case of Andrea Yates and emphasizes the need for better awareness and support for maternal mental health issues. 

Links:

Rachael Watters - Understanding Postpartum Psychosis Ted Talk

https://www.y...

In this episode, Dana and Shannon discuss the controversial BDSM-focused pornographic website Insex.com and its founder Brent Scott. Themes of pain, suffering, empathy, power dynamics, and the impact of financial reward on consent are examined.

Links:

Insex Wiki Page:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insex

Graphic Sexual Horror IMDB page:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1326224/?ref_=vp_vi_tt

Variety review of the film, Graphic Sexual Horror:

https://variety.com/2009/film/reviews/graphic-sexual-horror-1200475386/

Vice article about BDSM and therapeutic effects:

In this episode, Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers discuss the tragic story of Diane Schuler, who caused a fatal car crash while driving under the influence. They discuss the normalization of alcohol in society, the complexities of addiction, and the harsh criticism faced by individuals in the public eye. Through the lens of Diane Schuler's tragic story, the discussion highlights the importance of understanding the underlying issues of addiction, the stigma surrounding it, and the necessity of asking for help. The conversation emphasizes that pain can serve as valuable information, and that the consequences of hiding one's struggles can...

In this episode of the Secret Passage Podcast, hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers discuss the infamous Enumclaw horse sex case, exploring the themes of bestiality/zoophilia, animal ethics, and the psychological motivations behind sexual behaviors. The conversation raises critical questions about consent, morality, and the societal implications of human-animal relationships, ultimately reflecting on the broader ethical considerations surrounding animal exploitation and human desires. 

Links:

The film Zoo:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0874423/

Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer

Article about Alain Delon:

https://ww...

In this inaugural episode of the Secret Passage podcast, hosts Dana Vespoli and Shannon Rogers delve into the tragic case of journalist Kim Wall, who was murdered by Danish entrepreneur Peter Madsen. The conversation explores Kim's life, her impactful journalism, and the chilling events leading up to her death. The hosts discuss the psychological implications of Madsen's actions and the investigation that followed.

Links:

Remembering Kim Wall Website:

https://www.rememberingkimwall.com/

Kim Wall Memorial Fund:

https://www.iwmf.org/programs/kim-wall-memorial-fund/

The Gift of F...