Algorithm

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When Afrikka Hardy was strangled in 2014 it seemed completely random, but it wasn’t. It was part of a pattern. Four years earlier, reporter Thomas Hargrove had created an algorithm to detect serial killers and flagged Gary, Indiana as the site of an unusual number of strangulations. But when Hargrove reached out to warn local police, he was ignored -- until Afrikka Hardy was murdered, and those cold cases suddenly didn’t look so cold. Algorithm follows the investigation into Afrikka’s murder, exposing the warnings that police ignored, and uncovering more than anyone expected -- that a serial killer was strangling women in Gary, Indiana could've been stopped. And that Afrikka Hardy should be alive today.  This podcast will explore how technology can be used to identify and track serial killers, and how an algorithm can influence the way homicides are investigated all across the country.

iHeartRadio and TenderfootTV


    • Apr 17, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 21m AVG DURATION
    • 28 EPISODES
    • 1 SEASONS

    Ivy Insights

    The Algorithm podcast is a captivating and informative true crime series that delves into the use of data mining and algorithmic analysis in solving cold cases. From the very beginning, I was hooked on the math and science aspect of the podcast, as it provided a unique perspective on criminal investigations. The story is skillfully crafted, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout each episode. I was engrossed in the details shared by the killer himself, which were even more chilling to hear in his own voice. The dedication of the police officers involved in solving these cases, despite the horrifying nature of the crimes, was truly admirable. In just one day, I listened to eight episodes - a testament to how engaging and fascinating this podcast is.

    One of the best aspects of The Algorithm is its algorithmic point of view. It offers a fresh take on true crime storytelling by incorporating mathematical analysis into criminal investigations. The amount of research and thoroughness put into this podcast is impressive, presenting a dynamic picture of the case matter through interviews with various individuals involved. The host, Ben Kuebrich, does an excellent job trying to understand and explain all aspects of the crimes presented in a genuine manner.

    However, there are a few downsides to this podcast. Some listeners have criticized Ben's voice as being not suited for narration. While opinions on voices can vary, it's important to focus on the content rather than getting caught up in superficial judgments. Additionally, some listeners have expressed dissatisfaction with the inclusion of condom ads throughout the episodes due to their conflicting nature with the seriousness of the content discussed.

    In conclusion, The Algorithm podcast is an informative and well-executed series that goes beyond typical true crime storytelling. It sheds light on broader issues surrounding crime investigation, such as mistreatment of rape kits and the need for technology advancements alongside human efforts. It tackles topics like race dynamics within law enforcement and victim support systems effectively while emphasizing empathy and understanding. The amount of work and dedication put into this podcast is evident, and I eagerly await future seasons.



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    Latest episodes from Algorithm

    MISSING: Survivalist & World Traveler

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2024 3:10 Transcription Available


    Up and Vanished presents... Status: Untraced. In 2016, survivalist and world traveler Justin Alexander goes missing in the Parvati Valley while on a spiritual trek into the Himalayan Mountains. While the circumstances of his disappearance point to murder, a chilling message he left behind throws everything into question: “I should return mid-September or so. If I'm not back by then, don't look for me.” Four years later, host and true crime newcomer Liam Luxon is introduced to Justin's story and embarks on an investigation into the case. "Status-Untraced" is a 10-episode journey that explores the secrets the Valley holds, the stones left unturned, and what really happened to Justin Alexander.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Up and Vanished Returns

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2024 2:32 Transcription Available


    Payne Lindsey returns to lead a new investigation into the disappearance of Alaska Native Florence Okpealuk, who vanished from the subarctic town of Nome in 2020. From Tenderfoot TV, a new chapter begins, this is season 4... 'Up and Vanished: In the Midnight Sun'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing: Talking to Death with Payne Lindsey

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2023 0:55 Transcription Available


    Hi, Algorithm fans! Tenderfoot TV and iHeartPodcasts have teamed up for another exciting podcast called Talking to Death, hosted by Up and Vanished creator Payne Lindsey. Since you love our previous podcast collaborations, we think you'll like this one too. Don't just take our word for it, though. Check out this trailer and start listening today! Show Description: Up and Vanished host and creator Payne Lindsey wants to talk you to death in his first “true crime” talk show (that may or may not actually be about true crime). Pull up a chair as Payne and guests talk about all things crime, life, mystery, and fun. From Tenderfoot TV and iHeartRadio comes a new weekly series, Talking to Death. Take a listen… odds are, you won't die. Listen to Talking to Death on the iHeartRadio app, or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing The Estate

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2023 33:04 Transcription Available


    In the early evening on New Year's Eve, in 1973, a 34 year old man was found bleeding to death on a downtown street in Stockton, California. In his dying moments, he named the men behind his murder: Calvin Jones and Rosalio Estrada. 50 years later, Rosalio's son, Alex Estrada sets off to find out if his father was actually involved in the murder.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing: Freeway Phantom

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2023 2:03


    Hi, Algorithm fans! We're excited about the newest TenderfootTV podcast, Freeway Phantom. Since you enjoyed our show, we think you won't want to miss this important story. You don't have to only take our word for it, though. Check out the trailer to decide if Freeway Phantom is your next true-crime obsession! Show Description: Between 1971 and 1972, six black girls went missing in the Washington D.C. area. Their bodies were discarded alongside DC freeways. And their killer was never found. The media dubbed him “The Freeway Phantom.” From iHeartRadio and Tenderfoot TV, a new podcast reinvestigates the 50-year-old unsolved murders of these young girls. Journalist and Public Radio veteran Celeste Headlee (NPR, PBS, TEDx) examines old case files and interviews the investigators and family members who are still haunted by these killings. Headlee will ask the questions: Why didn't these murders make the news headlines? Did law enforcement do enough to solve these crimes? And how do racial disparities impact these types of investigations, past and present? Plus, we'll explore new evidence which may crack the cold case wide open again. Listen to Freeway Phantom on the iHeartRadio app, or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing: Silenced The Radio Murders

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2023 2:18


    Hi, Algorithm fans! Listen to Silenced: The Radio Murders hosted by Oz Woloshyn! The new hit true-crime podcast will leave you on the edge of your seat. Four radio broadcasters are assassinated on the streets of Miami. Rumors swirl about who wanted them shut up. Some suspect a far-reaching conspiracy. Don't just take our word for it, check out the trailer to decide for yourself!   About Silenced: The Radio Murders: A chilling wave of murders sweeps through Little Haiti, a Miami neighborhood that is home to many Haitian exiles. The victims are radio broadcasters, using the airwaves to demand democracy at home. Little Haiti is up in arms, calling for justice for the fallen heroes, but the investigation stalls. To this day, the masterminds remain free. And rumors persist … about cocaine trafficking, CIA assets, and transnational coups. Ana Arana, who first investigated the crimes thirty years ago, teams up with Oz Woloshyn to find answers to a case that continues to haunt her. Listen to Silenced: The Radio Murders on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing “High Strange” with Payne Lindsey

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2023 8:41


    In his new limited series, investigative podcast host, Payne Lindsey (Up and Vanished, Atlanta Monster), aims to separate fact from fiction when it comes to UFO sightings, and the strange happenings way up high. In the last few years, dozens of Navy pilots have come forward with video evidence of objects in the sky that defy our understanding of physics. The Pentagon has since confirmed the validity of these accounts and stated, “We don't know what they are.” Attempting to break the stigma surrounding the topic of UFOs, Lindsey shines light on real-life coverups, and infamous cases, all while leaving the tinfoil hat at the door. Do you want to believe? From Tenderfoot TV in association with Cadence13, this is High Strange. Episodes release every Thursday, but if you want to binge the whole season right now, subscribe to Tenderfoot+. Members get all episodes ad-free plus bonus content throughout the season. Sign up at apple.co/highstrange. For Spotify, Google, and other Android users, visit tenderfootplus.com.  Follow along on social media @highstrange.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing: The Return of Facing Evil

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2023 1:33


    Hi, Algorithm fans! Did you know that Facing Evil is back with new episodes? Well, it's true, and we think you'll want to hear the new deep dives and discussions. Check out this trailer for a sneak peek into what you'll hear this season. About Facing Evil: Back in 2019, sisters Rasha Pecoraro and Yvette Gentile revealed the true story of their dark family history in the hit podcast Root of Evil. Now, Pecoraro and Gentile are back with Facing Evil, a new weekly true crime show which focuses on different but equally resonant stories. Listen to new episodes of Facing Evil now on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing: Undetermined from Tenderfoot TV

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2022 8:09


    Hey Algorithm listeners! Check out this clip from the new Tenderfoot series Undetermined. In a coroner's report, the word “undetermined” is used to describe the cause or manner of death when there's insufficient evidence to lend a more specific classification. In 2019, Jessica Easterly Durning went missing from her New Orleans home; her body was found days later, just two and a half blocks away. Her death was classified as undetermined, but due to evidence of foul play, her friends and family believe someone played a role in her suspicious disappearance. Investigative journalist Jessica Noll and former Detective Todd McComas dig deep into this unsolved case and search for answers to Jessica's untimely death. From the team that brought you ‘Sworn' and ‘To Live and Die in LA', this is ‘Undetermined'. www.undeterminedpod.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing: Le Monstre from TenderfootTV

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2022 2:32


    Hi, Algorithm fans! Since you enjoy Tenderfoot TV podcasts, we're happy to introduce you to Le Monstre, the newest TFTV true crime series you won't want to miss. However, you don't have to just take our word for it. Check out this trailer to decide for yourself! About Le Monstre: In the 80s and 90s, a serial killer, pedophile, and kidnapper, Marc Dutroux, terrorized the country of Belgium. His unspeakable crimes and the incompetence or unwillingness of law enforcement agencies to stop him brought the entire country of Belgium to the brink of revolution. With hundreds of thousands taking to the streets in protest. Le Monstre will tell the story of these crimes and their aftermath, known as the Dutroux Affair, in an attempt to address unanswered questions, and to hopefully bring closure to one of the darkest chapters in Belgium's history. Listen and subscribe to Le Monstre on the iHeartRadio app, or wherever you get your podcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing: Facing Evil

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2022 1:58


    Hi, Algorithm fans! Since you enjoy Tenderfoot TV podcasts, we're happy to introduce you to Facing Evil, a captivating new show guaranteed to be your newest true-crime obsession. You don't have to just take our word for it, check out this trailer to decide for yourself! About Facing Evil: Back in 2019, sisters Rasha Pecoraro and Yvette Gentile revealed the true story of their dark family history in the hit podcast Root of Evil. Now, Pecoraro and Gentile are back with Facing Evil, a new weekly true crime show focusing on different but equally resonant stories.  Listen and subscribe to Facing Evil on the iHeartRadio app, or wherever you get your podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Introducing: Sympathy Pains

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2022 3:20


    This show tells the story of Sarah Delashmit, a former nurse who had an almost 20-year history of faking illnesses. She was so skilled at being sick, she was even able to integrate herself into disability communities and cancer non-profits. She was finally caught and stopped after two of her victims confronted her on national television, and her actions caught the attention of federal prosecutors. She garnered sympathy because they thought she was disabled. The truth is – she was. Just not in the way they thought she was. Listen here or on the iHeartRadio app.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    sympathy pains sarah delashmit
    Introducing: The MLK Tapes - A Brand New True Crime Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2022 2:43


    Introducing a brand new true-crime podcast we think you'd like. From the creators of Atlanta Monster, this is The MLK Tapes. Explore the rare recordings of eye-witness testimony that reveal the true story of the plot to kill Martin Luther King Jr. The first two episodes are available now. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    12 | DNA

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2021 54:07


    What happened to the DNA evidence associated with Hargrove's list. And what happened to Gary's backlogged rape kits? Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich, and follow the algorithm podcast on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Reach out with any tips or suggestions for other clusters of murders to explore on social media or by leaving a voicemail at 888-501-3309. And if you want more episodes -- please leave a review, letting us know you liked the show on apple podcasts! Hopefully, we'll be back with more episodes soon. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    11 | New Confessions

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2021 41:22


    Ben receives a letter from Vann agreeing to an interview. Ben talks to Kasich about Vann and why he plead to life in prison after wanting to be executed. And a mysterious caller describes another victim and sheds possible light on Vann's motivations. Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich. Reach out with any tips or suggestions for other clusters of murders to explore on social media or by leaving a voicemail at 888-501-3309. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    10 | The Chicago Connection

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2021 39:12


    Ben investigates some of the cold cases that Hargrove identified and explores Darren Vann's connection to killings in Chicago. Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich. Reach out with any tips or suggestions for other clusters of murders to explore on social media or by leaving a voicemail at 888-501-3309. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    Bonus | Q&A

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2021 31:14


    Ben listens to voicemails and answers listener questions. You can leave a voicemail of your own at 888-501-3309. Or ask a question or leave a tip on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    9 | The Survivor

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2021 40:28


    One woman escapes Vann and tries to warn the police, but they don't listen. Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich. Reach out with any tips on Darren Vann or crimes that might be related on social media or by leaving a voicemail at 888-501-3309. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    8 | Marvin and Teaira

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2021 37:17


    After Vann returns to Gary, Marvin Clinton's fiance Teaira Batey disappears. Frustrated with the police, Marvin starts investigating on his own. Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich. Reach out with any tips on Darren Vann, China, or crimes that might be related on social media or by leaving a voicemail at 888-501-3309. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    7 | Red Flags

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2021 37:03


    After the death of Vann's child, Vann snaps. He's arrested twice for horrific crimes, once in Gary and then in Austin. Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich. And reach out with any tips on Darren Vann, Big E, or crimes that might be related on social media or by leaving a voicemail at 888-501-3309. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    6 | Vann's Early Crimes

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2021 37:58


    Detective Ford interrogates Vann about his past and tries to determine how many Vann has really killed... And what can we learn from Vann's ex-wife, stepson, and ex-girlfriend? Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich. And reach out with any tips on Darren Vann, Big E, or crimes that might be related on social media or by leaving a voicemail at 888-501-3309. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    5 | The Death March

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2021 41:44


    The Death March Continues as Darren Vann leads detectives to more victims... but it's unclear if he's telling the whole truth about his crimes ... Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter. And reach out with any tips on Darren Vann, Big E, or crimes that might be related on social media or by leaving us a voicemail at 888-501-3309. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    4 | The Suspect

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2021 41:49


    Detective Ford investigates Afrikka's killer... and discovers the killer may be connected to even more murders. Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    3 | Cold Cases

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2021 40:05


    Jackie investigates the cases Hargrove's algorithm identified. But there aren't any major leads... until Afrikka's murder. What really happened the night Afrikka was killed? Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. And follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    2 | The Algorithm

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2021 41:55


    Four years before Afrikka's Death, reporter Thomas Hargrove took clues from the Atlanta child murders and the Green River Killer and created an algorithm to detect serial killers. His algorithm flagged Gary, Indiana as the site of an unusual number of strangulations. But how did this algorithm work, and what came of the findings? Thomas Hargrove discusses the creation of the algorithm and Dr. Mike Aamodt talks serial killing stats. Finally, host Ben Kuebrich receives an unexpected phone call. Subscribe to Algorithm now, so you don't miss an episode and leave a review! This is a brand new show that could really use your help. Also, follow host Ben Kuebrich on Twitter for more information about the case. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    1 | Afrikka Didn't Need to Die

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2021 39:32


    When Afrikka Hardy was strangled in 2014 it seemed completely random. But it wasn't. It was part of a pattern. Lori Townsend reminisces about her daughter Afrikka, and journalist Thomas Hargrove says Afrikka's death could've been prevented. Subscribe to Algorithm now, so you don't miss an episode, and follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter for more information about the case. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    Trailer: Algorithm

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2021 2:09


    When Afrikka Hardy was murdered, it seemed completely random. But it wasn't. It was part of a pattern. And police had been warned that a serial killer was on the loose in Indiana. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    Teaser: Algorithm

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2021 1:36


    Can an algorithm connect cold cases -- and help catch a modern serial killer? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

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