It Happened to a Friend of a Friend

Alright guys, this is a big one, so buckle up. Since we're going on a hiatus for a bit, we finally decided to do this case. The Bernardo/Homolka case is well known in Niagara, and in Ontario, and has a lot of parts to it. There's a trigger warning for this one, so listen at your own discretion. I tried to cover as much as I could without recording multiple parts...so if I miss stuff, I'm sorry. We'll be back soon, so don't go anywhere!

We're actually on schedule this week! Today we have another Canadian story of a person being convicted of a crime where the accused was actually innocent. Next is the last in our camping horror story theme...because one of us will be having a baby soon!

For today's episode we have a classic true crime story, and a once popular "science" (but was then debunked). The Lake Bodom murders still puzzle people as to the who the real whodunit truly is. Phrenology was once a popular way to determine a person's personality, but then quickly was disproven as inconsistent. Our throwbacks are the Full House "Stephanie" books, and beaded safety pins on shoe laces. Remember, you can write in with your stories or throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com, or message us on Instagram.

If you're going to talk about camping horror stories, what better forest to discuss than the most haunted forest in the world...the Hoia Baciu in Transylvania. Then, a Canadian true crime that's been brought back into the spotlight with the Hulu/Disney+ mini series...Under the Bridge. The tragic death of Reena Virk in the 90s is a horrible story of bullying and teenage violence. Our throwbacks are Canadian kid's shows, and the show Bug Juice.

Since summer vacation is just around the corner, we figured it's a good time to tell some camping horror stories. Also, we're keeping with the Victorian fashion theme and giving you some other deadly ways people in that era tried to stay on trend!

Today's episode features the story of a friendship that turned deadly, and a shade of green that people were just dying to get their hands on. Our throwbacks are the movie Heathers, and the late night clubbing show, Electric Circus. DM us on Instagram with your stories or questions, or email us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com

Eventually we'll get back to our regular bi-weekly schedule, but for now we're very inconsistent...we're sorry. Today's episode features a story with socialite scandal, murder, and a gossipy author. Next, or a horrible killer that buried his victims on his property. Our throwbacks are World Famous canvas backpacks, and flash mobs. Find, and interact, with us on Instagram, or write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com

This week you're all getting a real treat. We don't do a lot of heavy hitters, but this week we've got one of the first heavy hitters in the true crime world. None other than, Jack the Ripper! Next, as promised in the last episode, a brief update on Gypsy Rose Blanchard. Our throwbacks are a Wizard of Oz scene conspiracy, and the 90s kids rock tv show, Kids Can Rock and Roll, featuring the group "Kideo". Find us on Instagram or write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

I feel like this is start of a lot of episodes lately, but....we're baaaack! Yup, after an extended holiday break, we figured out our schedules and finally found a day to record! First is some female con artist stories from the opulent gilded age. Next a story many lovers of true crime know, the axe murderer of New Orleans...but with some new info! Only one throwback this week, the bakery found in many malls in the 90s and early 00s...mmmMuffins. They sold all kinds of...you guessed it...muffins! Find us on Instagram or email us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Here it is, the one and only episode we'll be releasing in December...so listen slowly! First up, some shudder inducing Christmas killings. Next, a phenomenon that will make you want to check all your crawl spaces, all the time...phrogging. We also have a few odd Victorian traditions to round this holiday episode. Our throwbacks are Christmas carol books, and the classic holiday film, The Muppet Christmas Carol. Message us with your creepy stories on Instagram, or write in to, ithappenedtopod@gmail.com. We hope you all have a happy holiday season, see you in the new year!

Today we discuss the controversial research study on twins conducted by the adoption agency, Louise Wise Services, in the 1960s. Then, we get into a true crime "heavy hitter" with a brief recounting of BTK. Our throwbacks are 90s R&B songs with subtle (or overtly) sexual lyrics, and the show Twin Peaks. Send us a message on Instagram with your creepy tales, or write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

It's almost Halloween, so we have some spoooky stories for your listening pleasure. First, a women who allegedly has telekinetic powers, and is serving jail time for a death some say she wasn't responsible for...or was she? Next, the story of how a massive house in California was built on the advice of medium for the widow of a famous gunmaker. Our throwbacks are dance crazes, and the show Supernatural. You can connect with us on Instagram, or write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Happy Friday the 13th! It's been a few weeks, but we're back with another episode. Today we have the story of a horrible Canadian murder case, and the man who was wrongfully convicted of the crime. Then a tale of a meeting with the Devil. Our throwbacks are the TV show Zoobilee Zoo and the Mandela effect of the Berenstain Bears spelling. Find us on Instagram or write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

We're back! It's been a hot minute, the summer was crazier than we expected and our schedules just didn't jive to record. Today we have a good old fashioned ghost story, because who doesn't like a haunting? Also, if you didn't have anxiety before, you may have it after learning you might all of a sudden burst into flames. Our throwbacks are many....BodyBreak, Snackwells cookies, 90s talk shows, Bob Barker, and Jimmy Buffet. Apparently we're making up for those missing weeks. Write in to us ithappenedtopod@gmail.com or find us on Instagram if you have a story or throwback to share.

Today we have a shallow jump into the story of Ed Kemper. I'm sure you've heard of him, he's one of those killers you know the name of, but maybe you don't really know the story. Next, because it's summer blockbuster movie time, is the inspiration for the the novel and movie, Jaws. You may want to be careful going into the water on those hot days. Our throwbacks are Rugrats...that 90s show about babies and toddlers we all loved, and Cool Tops Skipper...because who didn't love making tiny T's for their dolls? I totally did! Find us on Instagram and send us your creepy tales. Or write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Maybe the Anne Delvey of her time, Princess Caraboo convinced a small village she was a foreign princess...but was she? Then, we have a brief retelling of the story of cocaine bear, you'll love it. Our throwbacks are the old school seat belts that did up just at the waist and would burn your stomach in the summer because they got so hot, and the movie Blow...because sometimes we like to stay on theme. Find us on Instagram where you can send in your stories or email us as ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today we give you the amazing survivor story of Shasta Groene. Then, we move to a story in honour of Pride month...the Stonewall Riots. Our throwbacks are the movie Beetlejuice, and Frank Costanza's couch pose in Seinfeld. Message us with your stories or throwbacks on Instagram, or write in to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today we tell the story of two women who have a docuseries based on them. First is the exaggerated life of Anna Sorokin, aka Anna Delvey...you can find her series on Netflix (if you haven't already). Next we have the case of Candy Montgomery...her story has two versions, one on Hulu/Crave, the other on Disney+. After you listen to us, check them out if you want a weekend true crime binge. Our throwbacks are Kool-Aid in the single serve packets (you can't find those in Canada folks), and the song "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy". Find and connect with us on Instagram, or write in at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today we give you the conclusion of Anthalia Ponsell Lindsley, and then lighten the mood with some game show scandals. What was your favourite game on the Price is Right? Remember Supermarket Sweep? Our throwbacks are Miss Mary Mack, Barney, and Nesquik powder in the tin (which apparently you can still find, but I can only find it in the plastic container). Follow us on Instagram, message us, or email us at ithappenedtopod@gmail with your stories and throwbacks.

Today we go waaaay back in time to the first ever recorded murder trial in the United States...not first murder, just the first recorded one. If you enjoy musicals, you'll enjoy the Hamilton connection. Next, another two parter with the murder of Athalia Ponsell Lindsley...gotta love a two part episode. Our throwbacks are the infamous Gordon Gartrell shirt, the 90s Toronto Blue Jays, and velour sweat suits. Follow us on Instagram and write to us with your stories at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today we give you some hotel ghost stories from the west coast of Canada. Then a brief history of the Titanic (not sure if you've heard of it) and some conspiracies surrounding it's sinking. Our throwbacks are camcorders and The Flower Making Basket. Find us on Instagram and write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

With the Murdaugh family in the news lately, some of you may be wondering, "who is this family?". Well, you're in luck. Today we'll give you the Coles Notes version of the family and the crimes they've been involved with. Next, a horrible story about a whisky heir and how he became attached to a cannibal scandal in the late 1800s. Our throwbacks are the movie Leprechaun (have we done this, not sure, I feel like we have) and the book "Go Ask Alice" (spoiler, it's not a true story). Connect with us on Instagram, or write to use at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today we continue with part two of the Vallow Daybell Cult and all the twists it takes...there's a lot to unpack there. Then we move on to a real life Lifetime movie with the story of Angela Diaz and Michelle Hadley. Our throwbacks are the movie and book, Pet Cemetery, and Italian Charms. Connect with us on Instagram or write in to us at ihappenedtopod@gmail.com.

We're back, yay! We had a bit of a break while Megan spent some family time in Disney. On today's episode we talk creepy pastas and digital urban legend stories. Then, the first part of the story of Vallow Daybell. Our throwbacks are Ren and Stimpy (Can't remember if we did that yet), SpongeBob SquarePants, and Laguna Beach (I feel like we did that before too). We hope you enjoy!

On today's episode we tell you the sad story of a road trip gone wrong. We don't want to scare you off long distance car trips, you should still listen, you might pick up some tips to keep yourself safe. Then we have a trashy TV scandal featuring a real housewife of Salt Lake City...sometimes you just need something a little fluffy. Our throwbacks are the shows Hercules and Xena, and Sailor Moon. Write in with your stories or throwbacks. Find us on Instagram or email us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Welcome to the first episode of the new year! Today we have a the double life of Jennifer Pan and the tragic Burari Deaths. Our throwbacks are Blossom style hats and Pee Wee Herman! Find us on Instagram and write in with your tales of the unknown or some super fun throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Welcome to our very special holiday episode! Today we have a traditional Christmas Eve ghost story, and then 12 short crime stories that happened on or around the holly jolly season. We even have a true crime update from a previous story. This bonus episode is our holiday gift to you, thanks for listening! Our throwbacks are the movies Prancer, and Mickey's Christmas Carol. Enjoy the holidays, no matter how you celebrate. We'll be back in the new year with more true crime stories. Find us on Instagram and write in to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

After a long few weeks of craziness, we're back! Sorry we were MIA for a bit, there were sooo many things going on for us. Today we remember the victims of one of Canada's worst mass shootings with the story of the Ecole Polytechnique Massacre. Next we tell the tale of Victorian folklore, Spring Heel Jack. Our throwbacks include TGIF style holiday specials, the stocking my mom made me that Megan hates, and the movie Black Christmas. Don't forget to connect with us on Instagram or write in with stories or throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today's episode features the man who inspired characters like Norman Bates, Leather Face, and Buffalo Bill. Yup, it's Ed Gein. Next we have Durham Region's longest unsolved case that took place in Oshawa....the murder of Beverly Smith. Our throwbacks are the show Jersey Shore, and having so many keychains, but only one little house key. Write in with your stories and throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com and find us on Instagram.

Our last episode of spooooky season! What's a Halloween episode without a witch story? Seems to be a theme this month. For our first creeptastic tale, we have the story of the Bell Witch. After that terrifying legend, you'll be taken on a trip through history with some horrific events that happened on Halloween (or at least during the month of October). Our throwbacks are the movie The Bodyguard (don't worry, no one tries to sing) and the show Glee. Have a safe and happy Halloween! Write in to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com and connect with us on Instagram.

It's our first episode of spooky month...wheeee! First up we have the creepy doll story of Annabelle. Totally shocked Megan chose this one since she totally loves...I mean is terrified....of the toys. Next, I do a shallow jump into the Salem witch trials. There are so many more avenues and family dynamics that played a part in this portion of American history, but I kept it simple. Our throwbacks are the Raggedy Anne doll, kind of Ghostwriter (couldn't remember if we did that one already, sorry if we did), and those red plastic things you used at school to draw the other half of a picture. Write in with your stories and throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com or find us on Instagram!

You'd think a guy who wore weird pancake makeup and stuffed his shoes to make himself taller, wouldn't be a ladies man...but he was. He was also a killer. Next, if you like historical Prague, clocks, and curses, this story is up your alley! At first we couldn't think of throwbacks, but we eventually came up with pleather clothing and beaded curtains. Write in to us with your fave throwbacks at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com and find us on Instagram!

With back to school season upon us, it's only fitting we do some school related stories. Fraternities and sororities have been well known for their hazing antics. Some are harmless fun, but others are deadly...literally. Then, we have the greatest vampire story ever...not Dracula, but stories that inspired that book. As always, you can get in touch with us by writing in at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com, or find us on Instagram!

The Scream movie was not only inspired by a true crime story (that we covered btw), but the movie itself also played a part in a real life murder. Next we have the story of a boy who tragically died, was put in a box, and left in a wooded area. The boy's identity was never figured out, but there are many theories. Our throwbacks are the various bike accessories you jazz up your mode of transportation with (bells, things things in the spokes, streamers, etc.), and the movie Wayne's World! Write in with your creepy story or your fave throwback to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com. You can also interact with us on Instagram!

We're in the middle of summer and we know people are taking part in various fun fairs, amusement parks, and water rides. Sure, those things are fun, but happens when they're not...dun dun dun! Our first story is just some of your standard ride horrors that can happen in the happiest of places. Then, a story of a park ride decoration that was a little more creepy than people thought. Our throwbacks include Scooby Doo, Matthew Lillard, and Love Connection. Follow us on Instagram, and write in to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

For your listening pleasure today we have a castle haunted by a ye olde tyme French lady. Next, a more modern tale of indulgence with a bunch of bratty teens stealing from their celebrity idols. Our throwbacks are 90s trashy talk shows and the show The Carrie Diaries! Find us on Instagram, and write in with your stories to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com. Don't forget to review and follow us where ever you happen to be listening now.

Today Megan tells a Canadian crime tale...and has sources! I (Sarah) stick my roots and dig up a vintage murder. While one was influenced by a popular TV show, the other inspired various movies, including a Ryan Gosling and Sandra Bullock thriller. Our throwbacks are a local Niagara catfish derby, and filling out information in the back of a library book on the card when you borrow it. Find us on the 'gram, and write in with your stories to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

What's better than one fun fact? A whole (partial) episode of course. You'll get an earful of chilling fun facts to dazzle and amaze your friends...or probably just creep them out. Then, since we're coming off of prom season, we've got some scary prom night stories that will make you want to head for some fast food instead of joining in on the dance. Our throwbacks are the Strawberry Shortcake dolls and movies and the "Livestrong" yellow bracelets. Find us on Instagram and write in with your stories and throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today we have a horrific story straight out of an urban legend, maybe a listener beware for this one? Then we get back to the olde tyme crimes I enjoy with a story about the first time a woman used the battered wife defense in a murder trial. Our throwbacks are the file sharing sites we used to use and love and Cherry Merry Muffin dolls. Connect with us on Instagram or write in with your stories and throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today we talk about a family annihilator who eluded police for years, until John Walsh shed some light on the case. Then, we learn why we should buy vegan soaps and maybe have a little suspicion about the tea cakes we're eating. Our throwbacks are Paint and Dazzle Barbie, and the Friday the 13th movies. Connect with us on Instagram or write to us with stories and throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Alright, we're back. I know you totally missed us that one week we didn't post. For today, we have a vintage unsolved murder. I don't know about you, but I don't like unsolved things! Then, I step out of my historical crime comfort zone and give you something a little more cringy...the story of "The Kobe Cannibal". Connect with us on Instagram or write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com. Enjoy!

Have you ever been on a road trip and start to notice abandoned buildings in areas that aren't really a town? Or you hear the alarm of the amber alert on your phone and panic for the child kicks in, but you wonder...how did this notification start? Well wonder no longer, today we'll discuss both. First we'll go on a story telling road trip and visit just a small portion of the many ghost towns in Ontario. Then we'll tell the story of Amber Hagerman and how her tragic story helped create a way to help other kids. Our throw backs are Exclamation perfume, CK One, and Gap scents. Find us on Instagram and write in with your questions, comments, and stories to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today, both our stories have an orphan and French theme...and we didn't even plan it! We start in France with the story of the Papin sisters. From their tragic childhood, to their final murderous days, you won't believe the horrible events that surrounded their lives. Next we travel to Quebec to learn about the treatment that befell the children born into unfavourable family situations (unwed mothers, poverty, abusive) in the 40s and 50s. Under the leadership of the Premier of the time, Maurice Duplessis, these children were put into metal institutions and abused. Our throwbacks are Perms and the episode of Full House where Stephanie Tanner gets her ears pierced (I know, that's very specific). Find us on Instagram and write in with your stories and throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com. Enjoy!

Today's episode is a little different. We decided to just have a conversation about the things that give us goose bumps and keep us hiding under the covers at night. You're either gonna love it or hate it...or maybe you'll just be 'meh' about it. Our throwbacks are Troll dolls and those big ADIDAS coats we all had in the 90s. Find us on Instagram and write in with your creepy tales at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com. Enjoy!

Today we give you a bit of the creepy with an olde tyme mysterious disappearance/ghost story. Why are there so many stories of olden time moms dying and being separated from their children? We then cut to a Canadian case based on a Tragically Hip song, I dare you to not sing the song when you finish listening. The Tragically Hip are just great story tellers and I always want to know more about the inspiration! Our throwbacks are the super fun fashion plates and the Classic Canadian kids show Today's Special (shout it loud and clear!). Find us on Instagram and write to us at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today's episode may give you chills. From the images of an ice pick being hammered through your eye into your brain, to creepy staircases in the woods that go nowhere, you'll need something light and fluffy to watch/listen to after. Our throwbacks are the squish-worthy bath beads and the 90s "Extinct is Forever" campaign from the body shop. Find us on Instagram and email us your stories to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Get ready to get emotional and then shocked and amazed. First, you'll have all the emotions and probably be brought to tears with the tragic story of Chanie Wenjack...even dead inside me had to hold back some watery eyes. Next, you'll be shocked by the crazy cons of Victor Lustig. Including his most famous selling of the Eiffel Tower...yea, you heard me. We throwback the old school plastic Disney VHS shells...you can hear the sound they make now can't you? Also, the yummy McDonald's cookies that came in the boxes. Also, a bonus throwback of Beanie Babies. Do you still have yours? Follow us on Instagram and write in with your stories and childhood nostalgia at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com. Enjoy!

Ever wonder where the things we say today originate from? Or maybe you enjoy a good conspiracy? Well today we have both for you! We discuss the interesting theory that the Paul McCartney we know and love is really an impostor! Also, the terrible story of Fanny Adams an how her case led to a popular saying many of us use today. Our throwbacks are vintage 80s and 90s birthday parties and Guitar Hero. Find us on Instagram and write in with your stories and throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

Today we start a little heavy with a Canadian tragedy, the Brentwood five massacre. We then lighten things up and leave you on a softer crime note with some coupon scam stories. Our throwbacks today are the Canadian discount store Zellers and, in honour of the amazing Betty White, the show Golden Girls. Thank you all for being our friends and for listening. Find us on Instagram and don't forget you can write in with your stories and throwbacks to ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.

It's our final Christmas themed episode, so why not pull out some ghost stories and murder? Did you know back in the olden days people told ghost stories during the holidays? True story. We also bring you the truly horrific tale of Charles Lawson and the murders he committed against his own family...on Christmas! Our throwbacks are good old mistletoe and the Lil' Miss Makeup doll. Find us on Instagram and write in with your stories or throwbacks to ithappendedtopod@gmail.com. Have a safe and happy holiday!

Today we talk about where our Christmas traditions come from, eggnog, and the sad story of Laci Peterson. We throwback the super cute Moon Dreamer dolls and making your own greeting cards in The Print Shop on your old school 80s computer. The super nerd I am, I also used to make my own writing stationery. Find us on Instagram and don't forget to write in with creepy stories or awesome throwbacks at ithappenedtopod@gmail.com.