Episode 5: A Flash Episode

Some stories aren't meant to entertain us—they're meant to help us remember, understand, and care. In this episode, I recommend Where the River Took Us, Aaron Parsley's deeply personal account of the historic flooding along the Guadalupe River in Texas and the unimaginable journey that followed.Where The River Took UsAaron ParsleyTexas MonthlyHeaven's 27 Foundation

In this episode, host Becky Holland explores the intersection of education and larger societal forces, focusing on the podcast series Adults in the Room. It delves into the impact of silence, the journey of the podcast creator, the importance of advocacy and accountability, and a call for a potential second season.Adults In The RoomLumbery*If you or someone you know needs support:988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 (Available 24/7 for mental health crises, emotional distress, or suicidal thoughts)Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741 (24/7 text-based support with trained crisis counselors)National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) Call 1-800-656-4673 or chat online at rainn.org(24/7 confidential support for survivors of sexual assault)Other shows mentioned in this episode:Sold A StoryGrapevineSouthlakeNice White ParentsThe Promise

In this episode, Becky dives into The Walkers: The Real Salt Path, a podcast investigation by Chloe Hadjimatheou that questions the truth and accuracy of Raynor Winn’s popular memoir, The Salt Path. I explore the tensions between memory, storytelling, and fact, and what happens when a memoir blurs—or even crosses—the line between truth and fabrication. Ultimately, this episode asks a simple—but powerful—question: how much can we trust the stories presented as true, and when does creative liberty become deception?The Walkers: The Real Salt Path

For today's episode, I introduce the podcast 13th Juror and discuss its unique approach to true crime storytelling, pushing listeners into uncomfortable territory. You're going to want to listen to this one!13th JurorBone Valley

In this flash episode, I explore Leaked and Fever: The Hunt for COVID’s Origin, two investigative podcasts examining the ongoing debate over the origins of COVID-19. I reflect on the claims, the science, and the storytelling—and why this question, and how it’s reported, still matters.LeakedFever: The Hunt for Covid's OriginThank You, Dr. Fauci

In this episode, host Becky Holland discusses three podcasts that explore the 2010 BP oil spill from different perspectives: American Scandal, Ripple, and Lawless Planet. These shows delve into the systemic negligence, human and ecological aftermath, and the framing of environmental disasters as true crimes.Shows from this episode:American Scandal - Deepwater HorizonRippleLawless Planet

In this episode of PodTok, host Becky Holland delves into the darker side of storytelling through the lens of true crime. She highlights three compelling podcast series: Bear Brook, In Trust, and Lost Hills Season 4: Dark Canyon, each revealing haunting truths about systemic failures and the quest for justice. The episode explores the intricate narratives of victims, the role of citizen sleuths, and the impact of historical injustices on marginalized communities.Links to this episode's recommended shows:Bear BrookIn TrustLost Hills Season 4: Dark CanyonFor more information about PodTok, you can email us at [email protected] or follow us on Instagram at @Pod.Tok

In this episode, I recommend two powerful podcasts: Floodlines, which exposes how systemic racism shaped the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and The Africas VS America, which unravels the tragic history of Philadelphia’s MOVE family. Both challenge us to confront uncomfortable truths about race, power, and injustice in America.Links to this episode's recommended shows:FloodlinesThe Africas VS AmericaFor more information about PodTok, you can email us at [email protected] or follow us on Instagram at @Pod.Tok

It started with Serial, deepened with The Dropout, and caught fire with Firebug. In this episode, I’m sharing the podcasts that first hooked me—and why their storytelling still sticks.Show Links:SerialThe DropoutFirebugFor more information about PodTok, you can email at [email protected] or follow our social at @Pod.Tok.