
Step into the darker side of history with Once Upon A Crime, a true-crime podcast that delves deep into some of the world’s most gripping cases. Hosted by an expert storyteller, Esther Ludlow, each episode unravels the mysteries behind notorious crimes, exploring the lives of victims, perpetrators, and the intricate details of the investigations that followed. With carefully researched narratives,... more
| Publishes | Twice weekly | Episodes | 431 | Founded | 10 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | True CrimeHistory | |||

Axl Rose, American Cults & Mexico’s ‘Reformed’ Serial Killer - Welcome to Spooky Season on Once Upon a Crime!
Spooky Season has arrived on Once Upon a Crime! October is Esther’s favorite month, and this year we’re celebrating with a lineup of storie... more
Taylor Parker presented herself as a hardworking Texas country girl, a devoted girlfriend, an heiress to a family fortune—and soon, an excited mother-to-be.
There was just one problem.
Much of it wasn't true.
Taylor wasn't an heiress. The millions... more
In July 2022, 17-year-old Mackenzie Shirilla was behind the wheel of a car that slammed into a brick building in Strongsville, Ohio, at nearly 100 miles per hour. Her boyfriend, 20-year-old Dominic “Dom” Russo, and their friend, 19-year-old Davion Fl... more
In this bonus episode, Esther shares the complete interview with journalist Annette McGivney, author of Plastic Shaman: The True Story of a Deadly Self-Help Retreat and America’s Misguided Quest for Wellness, expanding on the 2009 Sedona sweat lodge ... more
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Seriously. You need speech therapy.
Good show. Selections and focus in storytelling is outstanding. One of a kind really so - I tend to respect the variety, whether I leaned towards it or against it because the digs are gold. Guest episodes nicely dispersed though it would be nice to hear more from guests when they are present as part of the change.
I had one favorite true crime show for many years. This may be now two.
Really loved your deep dive series into the Ruth Ellis case. Such a tragic life and sad ending to her young life.
Thank you for covering this
I’m not taking stars away for the five introductions to what is coming, but never an episode! We’re all waiting because we love you. No more trailer no more promises. Where is the show? 6/29???
I don’t want a preview or introduction every day I’ve until it comes out. I’m loyal, one announcement, one preview, SHOW!!!! No more commercials “on a what’s to come. Pleeease 🙏🏼I’m not trying be rude but i’m not listening to an announcement with a 1000 commercials.
It’s been about 4 months since the last episode posted- wondering when it’s coming back!
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #191 | |
Apple Podcasts | #229 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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A narrative-driven true crime show centered on deep-dive cases, psychological insights, and historical context. Across episodes, listeners get long-form storytelling that traces victims, perpetrators, and investigative processes, with a focus on how cases unfold over time, the nuances of legal proceedings, and the broader social impact. Notable strengths include thorough research, meticulous case reconstruction, and a consistent emphasis on motive, behavior, and the investigative decisions that shape outcomes. A few standout themes include copycat dynamics, the psychology of deception, and how media narratives influence public perception, all delivered with a measured, documentary-style voice that prioritizes clarity and credible analysis. ... more
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Once Upon A Crime launched 10 years ago and published 431 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 Once Upon A Crime include:
1. Annette McGivney
2. Rasul T. Freelon
3. Crystal Gutierrez
4. William J. Mann
5. Brian Buckmire
6. Marcia Clark
7. Cassandra Ventura
8. Edna Cowell Martin
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