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The Free Press Investigates

The Free Press
Detroit
Samantha Woll
Lindbergh Kidnapping
Murder Investigation
Michael Jackson Bolanos
Samantha Wool
Murder
Jewish Community
Jeffrey Herbstman
The Free Press
Trial
Samantha Wall
Michael Manuel Jackson Bolanos
Conspiracies
Police Interrogation
DNA Evidence
Lawyers
Homicide Investigation
Interfaith Relations
October 7, 2023

Listen to our new series, Spiral: Murder in Detroit, out now. Free Press reporter Frannie Block investigates the murder of a beloved community leader. The Free Press Investigates brings you gripping, deeply reported stories you can't find anywhere else—and the investigations others won’t dare to cover. You can also listen to our first series, The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling.

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes18Founded3 years ago
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Society & Culture

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Artwork for The Free Press Investigates

Latest Episodes

Veteran reporter Joe Nocera investigates a 94-year-old crime that deserves a second look: the kidnapping and murder of Charles Lindbergh, Jr.

Little Lindy was the infant son of the most famous man in the world at the time, an aviator who had achieve... more

A startling legal twist changes the case’s outcome, possibly forever. As we reflect on Samantha Woll’s legacy—especially that of a bridge builder between opposing views, her loved ones undertake the hard work of healing as they continue to fight for ... more

The prosecution believes the case is airtight, but when the defendant takes the stand, the case takes a turn. With alternate suspects introduced, the jury must decide what they believe really happened to Samantha Woll.

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Become a paid subscriber ... more

Samantha Woll’s ex-boyfriend calls 911 in a panic. He tells the police he thinks he might have killed her. When they bring him in for questioning, he explains he was having a drug-induced temporary break.

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Become a paid subscriber to The Free Pr... more

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Recent Guests

Jeffrey Herbstman
Ex-boyfriend of Samantha Woll involved in her murder case
Episode: Spiral | 3. Motive and Opportunity
Brian Brown
Defense attorney for Michael Jackson Bolanos
Episode: Spiral | 2. Wrong Place, Wrong Time?
Doug Wall
Father of murder victim Samantha Wall
Episode: Spiral | 2. Wrong Place, Wrong Time?
Margo Wall
Mother of murder victim Samantha Wall
Episode: Spiral | 2. Wrong Place, Wrong Time?

Host

Frannie Block
Reporter for The Free Press; Host and journalist covering investigative stories and True Crime series.

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars from 44.7k ratings
  • Too biased for my taste

    I think this was very biased. I think the reporter is clear that she thinks a man got away with murder. All I hear is the lack of evidence and the racism in a judge and a police department. The ex boyfriend is just given a pass by this podcast and police officers. Even after he confessed. Yet a man without a motive, without DNA, without blood soaked clothes is guilty? I listened to the whole series hoping we’d hear fair reporting. What a shame

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    Momsquared9378
    United States18 days ago
  • Really enjoying

    I think you need to place more emphasis on how her boyfriend who is statically likely to be the suspect, admitted to killing her without being prompted. He contacted police first, not the other way around. He has no alibi witness and no proof his alibi is correct. He said that he killed her because he was mad she broke up with him… and then said oh I was high when I said that so I didn’t mean it. This is clearly a crime of passion and he is the only person in her life with motive. He also knew h... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Meg Reynolds1983
    United States2 months ago
  • 5 stars for the witch trials of JK Rowling

    LOVED the witch trials of JK Rowling. So incredibly well put together and balanced in all the views

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Merlinbug
    Canada2 months ago
  • Frannie Shines!

    I’ve always liked Frannie’s writing but now I hear she’s got a real talent for podcasting too! Great but sad story.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    SRB Alberta
    Canada4 months ago
  • Mediocre Podcast

    Whether it's the intent or not, the podcast comes off as quite biased.

    Apple Podcasts
    3
    Sonidoceloso
    United States4 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

A number of comments reflect strong engagement with the subject matter and series continuity.
Some listeners criticize perceived bias and paywall access.
Listeners praise the depth of investigation and storytelling quality.
Positive remarks about Frannie Block's interviewing and investigative approach.

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Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Spiral | 3. Motive and Opportunity
Q: What do you think the motive might have been?
Because I was upset with her for breaking up with me.

Audience Metrics

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Free Press Investigates

What is The Free Press Investigates about and what kind of topics does it cover?

Syndicated investigations that blend true-crime storytelling with in-depth analysis of justice system dynamics. Episodes center on high-profile Detroit murder cases, exploring courtroom strategy, police procedures, race, community impact, and media representation, often featuring interviews with legal experts, family members, and journalists. The series is notable for its meticulous reporting, multi-perspective storytelling, and willingness to tackle controversial topics, though some listeners perceive bias and paywall-driven access as limiting. The format combines narrative episodes with detailed episode notes that anchor claims in documented events and public records, making it a potential fit for audiences interested in investigative jou... more

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Which podcasts are similar to The Free Press Investigates?

These podcasts share a similar audience with The Free Press Investigates:

1. Breaking History
2. Conversations with Coleman
3. Serial
4. Old School with Shilo Brooks
5. The Hand in the Window

How many episodes of The Free Press Investigates are there?

The Free Press Investigates launched 3 years ago and published 18 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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What guests have appeared on The Free Press Investigates?

Recent guests on The Free Press Investigates include:

1. Jeffrey Herbstman
2. Brian Brown
3. Doug Wall
4. Margo Wall

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