The Shadow Girls

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Secretly, the Green River Killer case haunted Carolyn Ossorio’s childhood and adolescence…growing up near Gary Ridgway's hunting grounds, where he preyed on vulnerable teens and young women, strangling them, stripping their bodies of all earthly possessions and leaving them in the river and green spaces. 49 victims...and yet the first name most think of is, Gary Ridgway. As a little girl, Carolyn never forgot how his victims were portrayed as "bad girls." The message was clear: that's what would happen to you if you were a bad girl. Decades later, during the Covid lockdown, Carolyn embarked on a deep dive into the nearly 20-year investigation, that journey would uncover never heard before audio, a long buried secret of her own and the hard truth: that bad things still happen to girls…whether they are good or bad has nothing to do with it.    Presented by Cavalry Audio and iHeartRadio

Cavalry Audio and iHeartPodcasts


    • May 20, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 43m AVG DURATION
    • 279 EPISODES
    • 2 SEASONS

    Ivy Insights

    The Shadow Girls podcast is an exceptional true crime podcast that delves into the Green River Killer case. As someone who grew up in the area during the time of these murders, this podcast brought back memories and emotions from my childhood. The narrative style is engaging and takes listeners on a journey, exploring both the fear of becoming the next victim and the lives of those who tragically lost their lives.

    One of the best aspects of The Shadow Girls podcast is how it gives voice to the victims. The host focuses on their lives before their deaths, highlighting their stories and reminding listeners that they were people with hopes, dreams, and families. This personal and local context adds depth and humanity to the narrative, making it about more than just a notorious serial killer. The interviews included provide new insights and revelations, keeping the storytelling fresh and captivating throughout.

    Another great aspect of this podcast is how it tackles difficult subjects like sexual abuse and trauma with sensitivity and compassion. The host shares her own struggles with molestation, creating a safe space for listeners to confront their own experiences. This level of honesty and vulnerability is commendable, as it allows for a deeper connection between the host and audience.

    Despite its many strengths, one downside of The Shadow Girls podcast is that it may be difficult for some listeners to listen to due to its heavy content. This includes graphic descriptions of crimes, abuse, and other disturbing details. While it's important for true crime podcasts to address these topics honestly, some may find it triggering or distressing.

    In conclusion, The Shadow Girls podcast is an excellent true crime series that portrays the Green River Killer case in a personal and thought-provoking manner. By focusing on the victims' lives rather than glorifying the killer, it gives voice to those who are often overlooked in such stories. Although it can be tough to listen to at times due to its dark subject matter, this podcast provides valuable insights into these tragic events and their impact on the community.



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    Latest episodes from The Shadow Girls

    E|134 The Unmasking - Part Two (Bonus)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 32:43


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    unmasking branden
    E|134 The Unmasking - Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 45:11


    In the thrilling the conclusion we learn who the Friday Night Robber was, how he evaded the police for so long and the genius behind his methods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    unmasking
    E|133 The Unmasking: Part One (Bonus)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 35:53


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    unmasking branden
    E|133 The Unmasking: Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 41:33


    A string of bank robberies spanning more than decade, a random discovery in the woods and a dedicated FBI agent all come together to create a truly fantastic story of luck, perseverance and old fashioned police work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    fbi unmasking
    E|132 The Cabin in the Woods (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 51:00


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    cabin in the woods branden
    E|132 The Cabin in the Woods

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 44:52


    On this week's episode Carolyn sits down with the FBI agent responsible for identifying one of the most notorious criminals in US history: The Unabomber. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    fbi cabin in the woods unabomber
    E131 UPDATES! (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 55:56


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    branden
    E|131 UPDATE!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 33:12


    In today's episode Carolyn gives listeners updates on several of the major cases we've been following. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    E|130 What Happened to the Dermond's? REDUX (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 35:19


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    redux branden
    E|130 What Happened to the Dermond's? REDUX

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 61:30


    With new DNA evidence coming to light, Carolyn revisits the terrible double homicide from central Gerogia in 2014 that saw a wealthy, elderly couple brutally murdered in their lakeside mansion. And the killers have never been identified. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    dna redux gerogia
    E|129 The Vigilante (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 38:25


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    vigilante branden
    E|129 The Vigilante

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 41:22


    Road rage? Community policing gone wrong? Or just a severe case of entitlement? You be the judge... today on Criminal Mischief. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    community vigilante criminal mischief
    E|128 In The Dead of Night (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 38:44


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    branden dead of night
    E|128 In the Dead of Night

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 47:37


    Carolyn explores the story that redefined the true crime genre and made it what it is today... the case that inspired the book In Cold Blood by the great Truman Capote, Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    truman capote in cold blood dead of night
    E|127 Down in Flames (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 37:46


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    branden down in flames
    E|127 Down in Flames

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 38:13


    Carolyn explores a truly disturbing and maddeningly callous series of events that will you scratching your head... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    down in flames
    E|126 Criminal Mischief Presents: The Devil Within (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 43:06


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    criminals branden devil within criminal mischief
    E|126 Criminal Mischief Presents: The Devil Within - Satan's Shadow

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 44:37


    This week on Criminal Mischief we welcome the new season of The Devil Within with episode one of the new season, Satan's Shadow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    satan shadow criminals devil within criminal mischief
    E|125 The Murder of Meredith Kercher REDUX (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 47:15


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    murder redux branden meredith kercher
    E|125 The Murder of Meredith Kercher REDUX

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 61:02


    An episode from our vault as we revisit the trial of Amanda Knox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    murder redux amanda knox meredith kercher
    E|124 UPDATE: The Idaho Murders (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 39:18


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    branden idaho murders
    E|124 UPDATE: The Idaho Murders

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 31:45


    Carolyn talks with a retired homicide detective to get his insights on where he thinks the investigation stands in light of new deveolpments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    idaho murders
    E|123 Wanton Cruelty - Part Two (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 51:56


    Branden and Carolyn discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    cruelty branden wanton
    E|123 Wanton Cruelty - Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 42:40


    The case of the Horror in the Desert wraps up with the emergence of a witness for the prosecution that sends the entire house of cards crashing to the ground. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    horror desert house of cards cruelty wanton
    E|122 Wanton Cruelty - Part One (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 38:33


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    cruelty branden wanton
    E|122 Wanton Cruelty - Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 41:03


    A truly evil case out of southern California that involves torture and LITERAL dismemberment... yeah... be warned, gentlemen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    california literal cruelty wanton
    E|121 The Recruit - Part Two (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2025 31:51


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    recruit branden
    E|121 The Recruit - Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2025 45:57


    The rape and murder of a recent boot camp graduate in the US Navy sent shockwaves through the military community... but the went cold for decades. Now, with new leads from the emerging field of investigative genetic genealogy the family will finally get answers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    us navy recruit
    E|120 The Recruit - Part One (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 39:16


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    recruit branden
    E|120 The Recruit - Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 45:59


    In 1984 a recent bootcamp graduate in the US Navy was found dead... she was strangled and had been sexually assaulted. Although investigators had a promising lead... the case went cold. For decades. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    us navy recruit
    E|119 Evil Spawn (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 34:44


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    evil spawn branden
    E|119 Evil Spawn - Redux

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 67:24


    Today we revisit an early episode that explores one of the worst cases Carolyn has covered... a night when three generations of the same family were murdered in cold blood. The perpetrators will shock and disgust you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    evil redux spawn
    Introducing: "Mind of a Serial Killer "

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 6:13


    What makes a serial killer? Mind of a Serial Killer takes you deep into the twisted minds of history's most notorious serial killers. Every Monday, hosts Vanessa Richardson and Dr. Tristin Engels, a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, combines gripping true crime storytelling with expert psychological analysis to answer the question - what makes a serial killer? From Jeffrey Dahmer to Ted Bundy, explore not only their chilling crimes but the dark psychology behind them. Follow Mind of a Serial Killer wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    mind serial killers clinical ted bundy forensic psychologist vanessa richardson
    E|118 Aggrieved (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 37:19


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    branden aggrieved
    E|118 Aggrieved

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 41:03


    In this episode we chronicle the tragic tale of one man versus City Hall... and the lengths he went to avenge a loss in an unwinnable battle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    city hall aggrieved
    E|117 Justified (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 39:37


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    justified branden
    E117 | Justified

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 45:11


    Carolyn sits down with former prosecutor Matt Murphy to discuss the famous "Dirty John" case. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    justified dirty john matt murphy
    E|116 Family Secrets (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 38:15


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    family secrets branden
    E|116 Family Secrets

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 42:31


    You know those DNA kits everyone wants for Christmas? Well, they can have soe unintended consequences... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    christmas dna family secrets
    E|115 The Revenge of Betty Broderick (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 41:56


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    revenge branden betty broderick
    E|115 The Revenge of Betty Broderick

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 39:03


    A truly terrifying case of a woman scorned, Betty Broderick is not someone you'll soon forget. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    revenge betty broderick
    E|114 The Ghoul Revisited (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2024 25:31


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ghoul branden
    E|114 The Ghoul Revisited

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2024 48:01


    To the end the year we offer a re-run of a fan favorite... The Ghoul. Plus, some news about what 2025 has in store for Criminal Mischief.... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ghoul criminal mischief
    E|113 Deception (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2024 36:58


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    deception branden
    E|113 Deception

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2024 35:57


    When a young mother in North Carolina claimed she had been carjacked and that her two children were still in the car it ignited a national news frenzy and an outpouring of support... but the truth would land like a gut punch in the American psyche. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    american north carolina deception
    E112| The Stalker Revisited (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 36:19


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    stalker branden
    E112| The Stalker Revisited

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 72:56


    With a fresh perspective and new, similar cases dominating the headlines... we revisit one of our first episodes from back when we hadn't started the BONUS episodes. The Stalker. Trust us, it's worth another listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    trust stalker
    E|111 Wicked (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 35:18


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    wicked branden
    E|111 Wicked

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 32:03


    A truly disturbing tale of greed and murder... with the added layer of a monstrous woman who involved her teenage children in the ghastly deed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    wicked
    E|110 A Conversation with Gerry Clark (Bonus Content)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 36:08


    Carolyn and Branden discuss the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    conversations branden
    E|110 A Conversation with Dr. Gerry Clark

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 49:34


    A continuation of episode 104, The Pizza Bomb Caper, Dr. Clark was the lead FBI agent assigned to the case. He sits down with Carolyn to discuss the case and how it affected his life and career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    conversations fbi

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