Family murders, criminals on the lam, and killer minds: 8 podcasts to binge after streaming ‘Father Wants Us Dead’

NJ.com presents “Father Wants Us Dead,” a true crime series unraveling a mass-murder case. In 1971, New Jersey resident and accountant John List murdered his 3 kids, wife, and mother, then fled to the other side of the country, vanished for years, and began a new life.

In “Father Wants Us Dead,” two journalists investigated, dove into the killer’s mind, learned more about the family, and followed clues in efforts to serve justice. This podcast chronicles the complete story over 10 episodes and bonus releases, sharing never-before-heard case updates and startling revelations.

If you’ve already binged this series, we’ve selected some more true crime podcasts you might enjoy. These shows involve family murders, examine criminal minds, and share bizarre cases filled with twists and turns.

Murdaugh Murders Podcast

Since 2021, journalist Mandy Matney presents the “Murdaugh Murders Podcast” covering the high-profile cases. This family has faced several criminal investigations including fraud, obstructing justice, a double homicide in 2021, the 2015 murder of Stephen Smith, the suicide-for-hire of family patriarch Alex Murdaugh, and an insurance scheme that victimized citizens. In July 2022, there were updates on Alex Murdaugh’s charges for killing his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul. Tune in for over 50 episodes on the slew of crimes that have followed this family for years.

Dead End: A New Jersey Political Murder Mystery

WNYC’s “Dead End: A New Jersey Political Murder Mystery” is a story of crime and corruption. John and Joyce Sheridan were a prominent New Jersey couple with personal connections to 3 governors. In 2014, the Sheridans were found stabbed inside their New Jersey home before their place was set on fire.

Law enforcement believed this was a murder-suicide, and many mysteries bubbled up. The victims’ sons searched for answers, and this podcast spotlights the investigation talking to the victims’ family, New Jersey politicians, former governors, attorney generals, the guy who took down Jersey’s mob, and more.

Killer Psyche

Wondery’s “Killer Psyche” is hosted by retired FBI agent Candice DeLong, using her expertise to analyze killers and ask why these people committed crimes. Candice shares new details for cases, examines psychological methods and profiling techniques used by experts to understand criminal minds, and more. Hear episodes on the Unabomber, Dr. Death, and El Chapo just to name a few.

Anatomy of Murder

From audiochuck comes “Anatomy of Murder.” Tune in on Wednesdays to hear hosts Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and Scott Weinberger unpack crimes, discuss the victims, and dive into investigations. Check out over 90 (mostly) standalone episodes running less than an hour on average.

The Execution of Bonny Lee Bakley

Bonny Lee Bakley conned Hollywood’s men for years before she was found shot in 2001. This 6-part series is about love, infamy, obsession, and fraud. Hear Bonny’s backstory, her chaotic marriage with actor Robert Blake, and her previous relationship with Marlon Brando’s son, Christian Brando. Following her death, Robert was the main suspect for years, and he stood trial. Stream Wondery’s “The Execution of Bonny Lee Bakley” from the beginning to hear the full story.

Run, Bambi, Run

Apple TV+’s “Run, Bambi, Run” shares Laurie Bembenek’s life story. Before she was arrested for murdering her husband’s ex-wife, she was a Milwaukee police office and Playboy Club bunny. Laurie was nicknamed “Bambi Bembenek” and claimed her innocence. Bambi was never exonerated but escaped from prison and became a “folk hero.” This series is hosted by journalist and Campside Media co-founder Vanessa Grigoriadis. Vanessa also co-hosts “Chameleon: Hollywood Con Queen.”

What Makes a Killer

Audioboom Studios’ “What Makes a Killer” explores the world’s most infamous serial killers in weekly episodes. Tune in for interviews with law enforcement, witnesses, and criminals’ family members in over 50 standalone episodes. There are episodes on Ed Gein the Butcher of Plainfield, the Night Stalker, Jeffrey Dahmer, John Wayne Gacy, Richard Ramirez, and more killers.

CounterClock

Investigative journalist Delia D’Ambra hosts audiochuck’s “CounterClock” and digs into 1 case each season, turning back the clock and attempting to solve cold cases. Season 4 investigated the death of John Welles and season 3 covered the Pelley family massacre. Season 2 examined Stacey Stanton’s murder over 30 years ago and season 1 revisited Denise Johnson’s murder.