Some stories just hit different. Welcome to The Dark Finds Podcast, hosted by writer, true crime creator, and psychology enthusiast Gary Colton. Each episode takes you deep into the world of those who’ve lived through — or created — something extraordinary. From fighters, musicians, and war veterans to cult survivors, ex-cons, psychologists, and entrepreneurs, we explore the lives of people who exist on the edge of the norm. Through honest, often raw conversations, we uncover their journeys, insights, struggles, and what drives them.
At its core, Dark Finds is fueled by one obsession: understanding human behavior in all its forms.
This week, I’m joined by one of the best talents in modern horse racing, five-time British Champion Jockey Oisín Murphy. Oisín takes us far beyond the headlines and the finish lines. We explore his remarkable rise in the sport, the relentless pressure that comes with staying at the top, and the physical and mental toll of life as a jockey. Oisín speaks with rare honesty about his battle with alcoholism, the daily struggle to maintain race weight, and the intense scrutiny that followed his toughest moments.
But this is also a story of resilience. Oisín reflects on the highs of his career — the iconic wins, the moments that made history — and the ongoing work of rebuilding, staying sober, and striving to be better every day. It’s candid, it’s human, and it’s a powerful insight into a world few truly understand.
East Coast Bose joins me for a raw and unfiltered conversation about a world most people only see through headlines or hear about in lyrics. From Broadway, the heart of New York City, Bose walks us through the evolution of Harlem, the impact of gentrification, and what happens when the rules of the game change but the consequences don't.
We talk about the old code of honor, the rise of informants, the shift from violent street crime to modern hustles, and how legends like Camron shaped an entire generation. Bose opens up about personal loss, life behind the wall, celebrity encounters, regrets, and the realities of a culture that's disappearing as fast as New York changes around it.
The journey to the podcast took two years. Harlem is a cultural hub with a rich history. New York City is a melting pot of cultures. Gentrification has significantly changed Harlem. Personal loss can lead to profound life changes. The drug game has evolved over the years.Tupac's influence on hip hop and culture is immense.Youth culture has shifted dramatically in recent years.People will always find ways to make money.The power of perception shapes our reality. Street culture has evolved from violent crime to non-violent hustles.Informants have significantly changed the dynamics of street life.Gentrification has led to the displacement of long-standing communities.The sense of community and shared culture has diminished over time.Prison experiences shaped a deeper understanding of street life.Celebrity influence can impact street credibility and culture.Regrets often stem from not adhering to the rules of the game.Diversity in New York contributes to a rich cultural tapestry.The hustle mentality persists, but the methods have changed.Future aspirations include building a legacy and changing the narrative.
Dr. Katherine Ramsland - Understanding The Dark Psychology Of Dennis Rader, The BTK Killer
Episode 49
Thursday, September 11, 2025 • Duration 01:00:31
Today, I'm joined by Dr. Katherine Ramsland, a prolific author and professor of forensic psychology. She specializes in extreme offenders and has authored numerous books on the subjects of serial killers, crime scene investigation, forensic science, and mass murder
In this episode, Katherine discusses the complexities of serial killers, focusing on Dennis Rader, the BTK killer. Through jailhouse visits, telephone calls, and written correspondence, Katherine worked with Rader himself to analyze the layers of his psyche. In 2016, she authored the book, Confession of a Serial Killer: The Untold Story of Dennis Rader, the BTK Killer. We also delve into the rise of true crime culture, misconceptions surrounding psychopathy, the differences between forensic and criminal psychology, and the role of humiliation in violent behavior.
Catherine Ramsland has written 73 books, showcasing her extensive knowledge. She emphasizes the importance of taking time before entering college to find one's path.Forensic psychology is a growing field that gained popularity after high-profile cases like O.J. Simpson.The BTK killer, Dennis Rader, is an outlier among serial killers, challenging common profiles.Psychopathy is a spectrum, and not all psychopaths are criminals.Humiliation plays a significant role in the motivations of many serial killers.Ramsland believes in preparing for opportunities that may arise unexpectedly.The complexity of human behavior makes it difficult to categorize serial killers into neat boxes.Ramsland's work includes both fiction and non-fiction, blending her expertise with storytelling.She is currently working on a crime fiction series and a documentary about an accomplice to a serial killer.
Scott DeLuzio - Facing Challenges On And Off The Battlefield
Episode 48
Friday, September 5, 2025 • Duration 01:56:00
On today's episode, I sit down with Scott DeLuzio, an army veteran who served in the Connecticut Army National Guard as an infantryman between 2005-2011 and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010.
Scott discusses the challenges veterans face, including mental health issues and the search for purpose after service. He highlights the importance of community support, the complexities of combat experiences, and the role of humor in coping with trauma.
During his deployment, tragically, Scott became a Gold Star Brother when his younger brother, Sergeant Steven DeLuzio was killed in action while they were both deployed only miles apart from each other in Afghanistan. Scott's experiences in combat and the loss of his brother have fueled his passion for veteran advocacy and honoring the legacy of those who served.
After returning home, Scott struggled with PTSD, grief, and the transition to civilian life. Determined to address the mental health challenges facing veterans, he launched the Drive On Podcast, now in its fifth year with over 450 episodes.
Today, I'm joined by Vennie Kocsis, the author of Cult Child, who shares her harrowing experiences growing up in the cult, Sam Fife The Move. Vennie discusses her early childhood, the transformation of her mother into a cult member, and the psychological trauma that ensued. She reflects on the cult's beliefs, the abuse she and other children endured, and the lasting impact of these experiences on her life. The conversation also touches on the intersection of cults and government, the ongoing legacy of Sam Fife's cult, and the importance of healing and awareness for survivors. We delve into the predatory tactics used by cults, the impact of shame and trauma on identity, and the importance of therapy in recovery.
Vennie's memoir provides a raw insight into cult life.
The transformation of her mother into a cult member was gradual.
Children in cults often experience severe psychological trauma.
Disassociation is a common coping mechanism for survivors.
Alice Hunter - The Perfect Psychopath & The Serial Killer's Wife Author
Episode 46
Thursday, August 21, 2025 • Duration 01:04:00
Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by bestselling thriller writer Alice Hunter, whose gripping novels delve deep into the minds of serial killers and psychopaths. Alice takes us on her fascinating journey from nursing to working as a psychological facilitator in the prison system, to finding her passion in writing. She shares how her work explores psychopathy, criminal psychology, and the fine line between nature and nurture. We talk about the meticulous research that goes into her books, psychopaths and serial killers, and what it's like to see her stories adapted for screen.
Thrillers often explore the dark side of human nature. The fascination with serial killers may stem from a desire to understand them. Psychopaths can be highly manipulative and charming. Working in a prison can change one's perspective on crime and criminals. Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for personal experiences. Research is important, but fiction allows for creative freedom. Alice Hunter's journey from nursing to writing is unique and inspiring.The adaptation of books to screen can differ significantly from the original story.The relationship between genetics and criminal behavior is complex.Alice Hunter's writing process involves detailed planning and character development.
Guenther Steiner - A Life In Motorsport
Episode 45
Thursday, August 14, 2025 • Duration 01:04:07
In this episode, I sit down with one of motorsport's most charismatic and candid voices — Guenther Steiner. From a young boy with a fascination for cars to becoming a key figure in the high-stakes world of Formula 1, Guenther takes us through his remarkable journey.
We dive into his early passion for racing, the tough breaks and breakthroughs that shaped his career, and the realities of what it takes to succeed behind the scenes — from sponsorships and networking to the art of the pitch. Guenther also reflects on the massive global impact of Netflix's Drive to Survive, and how it reshaped public perception of F1.
With his signature honesty and humor, he shares sharp insights on the contrasts between rally and Formula 1, and why storytelling is just as crucial in the boardroom as it is on the track.
Guenther's passion for motorsport began in childhood.
Karen Conti - Defending America's Most Evil Serial Killer, John Wayne Gacy
Episode 44
Thursday, July 31, 2025 • Duration 01:11:02
On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Karen Conti, an attorney who spent seven months representing serial killer John Wayne Gacy during his final death row appeals.
Karen shares what it was like to sit across from one of America’s most notorious killers, his humor and coldness alike. As Gacy’s only female attorney during his 14 years on death row, she also opens up about the unique challenges she faced as a woman practicing law in the 1980s and ’90s.
We dive into Gacy’s crimes, his disturbing psychological profile, and the family dynamics that shaped him. Karen also offers her insight on some lingering questions of whether or not Gacy acted alone. So buckle up for this one, and remember if you're liking the podcast, please subsribe, comment, rate and share with others.
Brian Whelan - Surviving and Thriving In Hyper-Competitive World of New York Real Estate
Episode 43
Friday, July 25, 2025 • Duration 01:24:15
On this weeks episode I'm joined by a good friend of mine, Brian Whelan who shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Ireland to becoming a successful real estate broker in New York City. He brings us through the challenges and rewards of working in a hyper-competitive market, the importance of resilience and mindset, and the value of building relationships in sales.
Success in real estate requires hard work and persistence.
It's essential to compete against yourself, not others.
Building relationships is key to sales success.
Fergus Kennedy - Ballybunion to the River Kwai: An Irishman's Story of Survival on the Death Railway
Episode 42
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 • Duration 01:12:02
In this episode, Fergus Kennedy shares the profound journey of uncovering his family's history, particularly focusing on his father's harrowing experiences as a prisoner of war during World War II. The discussion delves into the emotional and physical struggles faced by POWs, the brutal conditions of the Japanese camps, and the resilience of the human spirit. Fergus reflects on the importance of storytelling in preserving history and honoring the legacy of those who endured unimaginable hardships. The conversation highlights themes of survival, family, and the quest for understanding one's roots.
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East Coast Bose, Harlem, New York City, gentrification, hip hop culture, personal stories, drug game, Camron, youth culture, community, street culture, informants, gentrification, prison stories, celebrity influence, regrets, diversity, hustling, consequences, opportunities
The Drive On podcast aims to help military veterans transition to civilian life. Many veterans feel isolated and struggle to find purpose after service. Mental health issues can vary greatly among veterans, even in similar situations. Traditional therapies may not work for everyone; alternative methods should be explored. Community activities can provide healing and support for veterans. Finding purpose in life is a continuous journey for many individuals. The stigma around mental health is slowly changing in the military community. Dark humor is often used as a coping mechanism in the military. Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for processing experiences. The bond between service members can provide crucial support during and after service. It's common for brothers to serve together in the military. Deployment brings both pride and anxiety for families. Life on base can be surprisingly luxurious compared to combat zones. Training prepares soldiers for many scenarios, but not all. Grief can manifest in unexpected ways during combat. Returning home after loss is a complex emotional journey. Storytelling helps preserve the legacy of lost loved ones. The media's portrayal of war often misses the reality. Finding a personal way to grieve is essential for healing. Living life fully honors the memory of those we've lost.
Keywords
military veterans, mental health, podcast, transition, combat experience, community support, humor, patriotism, storytelling, personal experiences, military, deployment, family, grief, legacy, combat, Afghanistan, brotherhood, war stories, personal journey
