
About Examined: Overlooked cases that never got the real investigation they deserved. Each season features deeply reported stories about crime, punishment, and the people inside the criminal legal system.
Nearly 40 years ago, in the parking lot of a community college in Port Huron, Michigan, a 20-year-old student named Scott Macklem was shot dead in broad daylight. His murder shocked the communi... more
| Publishes | Twice weekly | Episodes | 71 | Founded | 6 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | True CrimeDocumentarySociety & Culture | |||

The trial of Temujin Kensu had happened quickly, just six months from arrest to verdict. What came next was unbearably slow. And with every year that passed, his odds of getting out of prison would go down. But then, one judge decided to rule in his ... more
At trial, Temujin Kensu’s defense is simple — he was across the state when the crime occurred. In court, he brings multiple witnesses to testify that they saw him in the Upper Peninsula, more than 400 miles from Port Huron. But then prosecutor Robert... more
In November 1986, Robert Cleland was the head prosecutor in St. Clair County, Michigan. The morning after Cleland lost a statewide race for Attorney General, Scott Macklem was murdered. Cleland decided to prosecute the case himself, depicting the def... more
Temujin Kensu spent much of his youth wandering, mainly in his home state of Michigan. In 1986 he and his then-fiancée moved to a cabin outside Port Huron, where he briefly dated someone else. A few weeks later, he and his fiancée moved again, more t... more
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Has the pull and propulsion of true crime but with deep empathy, strong ethical framework, and journalistic rigor. Thoroughly enjoy reporting by Josie Duffy-Rice!
Josie Duffy Rice is one of the best journalists on the planet. She brings thoughtfulness, nuance, and care to a very complicated story. She reminds us that justice includes those who often are far from perfect.
I have had a lot of questions about this murder for a long time, because of podcasts claiming he’s guilty. It always felt like they left out critical information. I think this is really great - bought a subscription and listened to the whole thing. It’s very strong.
I was sad when this was over because it was so well done and I was so hoping for an answer. I don’t think I’ll ever forget this story.
Have thoroughly enjoyed Season 1 - Season 2 not so much. Don’t understand why you thought Rob Lowe would have any effect on the back story. You have enough insight, information and journalism to explain what happened and close the story - Rob just seemed like “fluff”. Looking forward to Season 3.
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
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Investigative, narrative-driven true crime with a strong journalistic spine that scrutinizes overlooked cases within the criminal justice system. Across seasons, the show blends archival reporting, witness interviews, and expert context to expose how investigative missteps, procedural flaws, and institutional pressures shape outcomes—from high-profile trials in small towns to complex, decades-long justice questions. Productions emphasize ethics, accountability, and the human impact of systemic failures, often featuring lawyers, investigators, journalists, and occasionally subjects who challenge official narratives. A standout element is the level of on-the-record reporting, thoughtful questioning, and a clear commitment to nuanced storytell... more
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Examined: The Backfire Effect launched 6 years ago and published 71 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Examined: The Backfire Effect include:
1. Bill Proctor
2. Josh Sharp
3. Robert Cleland
4. David Dean
5. Bob Evans
6. Temujin Kensu
7. Dr. Thomas Mooney
8. Joy Marie Mann
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