Explore every episode of the podcast The Jim Rathmann Show
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Exotic Trial: What Really Happened | 11 Mar 2026 | 00:23:47 | |
"In this episode of The Jim Rathmann Show, Jim dives into one of the most controversial criminal cases in modern pop culture: the trial of Joseph Maldonado-Passage, better known as Joe Exotic from Tiger King.
While many people know the story through Netflix documentaries and viral headlines, Jim takes a closer look at the actual court transcripts and legal details behind the case. Drawing from his own experience reviewing the trial records and working alongside Joe Exotic’s legal team, Jim breaks down the key issues that shaped the outcome of the trial.
From the Endangered Species Act and Lacey Act violations to the highly debated murder-for-hire charges involving Carole Baskin, Jim explores the inconsistencies, legal arguments, and courtroom decisions that led to Joe Exotic’s lengthy prison sentence.
He also explains the concept of intent versus free speech in federal murder-for-hire law, why the charges were structured the way they were, and how sentencing decisions dramatically increased Joe’s prison time.
Jim also reveals that Joe Exotic is scheduled to appear on the show soon from prison, and he invites listeners from around the world to submit questions for the upcoming interview.
If you’ve ever wondered what really happened behind the headlines of Tiger King, this episode provides a deeper look at the legal side of the case.
-----------------------------------------------------
Stay tuned for more episodes to come., where Jim will wrap up reveal the case.
Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann
-----------------------------------------------------
Special thanks to our partners: Podgo and Hi Hello Labs in Orlando, Florida, for powering and producing this show.
Sponsored by: Podgo Services
Produced at: Hi Hello Labs (Orlando, FL)" Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
| |||
| Melanie Curtin Case Update: Charges Reduced & New Evidence Allowed | 04 Mar 2026 | 00:24:53 | |
In this episode of The Jim Rathmann Show, Jim provides a detailed update on the Melanie Curtin case ahead of her retrial set for March 9th.
After her original conviction for aggravated rape was overturned on appeal, major questions remain about prosecutorial conduct, withheld exculpatory evidence, jury instructions, and the credibility of key testimony. Jim breaks down the legal history of the case, why charges were reduced from aggravated rape to simple rape, and what could happen when new evidence is allowed in court.
With the Louisiana Appeals Court and Louisiana Supreme Court ordering that previously excluded evidence be admitted, this retrial could unfold very differently from the first.
Jim also examines the potential for civil fallout, the role of media coverage, and what this case could mean for public trust in the justice system.
March 9th is approaching fast. Stay informed, follow the evidence, and decide for yourself.
-----------------------------------------------------
Subscribe for more deep dives into cybercrime, investigations, and real-world threats.
Comment below: What’s the biggest online safety concern you have for your family right now?
Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode contains descriptions of child exploitation, grooming, self-harm, and suicide. Listener discretion is strongly advised. The information shared is for educational and awareness purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or the appropriate authorities right away.
Stay tuned for more episodes to come., where Jim will wrap up reveal the case.
Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann
-----------------------------------------------------
Special thanks to our partners: Podgo and Hi Hello Labs in Orlando, Florida, for powering and producing this show.
Sponsored by: Podgo Services
Produced at: Hi Hello Labs (Orlando, FL) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
| |||
| Serial Killer Fan Clubs? The Shocking Truth About Wade Wilson’s “Army” | 25 Feb 2026 | 00:48:09 | |
"In this episode of The Jim Rathmann Podcast, Jim sits down with longtime friend Tricia Griffith, founder and host of Websleuths (the true crime community that’s been digging into major cases for over two decades).
Together, they unpack the disturbing (and oddly viral) phenomenon surrounding Wade Wilson, the Florida man convicted of the 2019 Cape Coral murders who later became a fixation for an “army” of admirers online. Jim and Tricia break down what’s known about the case, what happened after his arrest, and the bigger question: Why do some people feel drawn to violent criminals, even after the facts are public?
They also zoom out into the psychology behind “I can fix him” thinking, how manipulation works, and why this mindset can overlap with patterns seen in domestic violence dynamics. Jim also highlights an important point that often gets ignored: men can be victims of domestic violence too, and those stories deserve to be taken seriously.
Plus, Tricia shares what Websleuths is currently watching closely, including the developing Nancy Guthrie case and why it’s drawing massive attention.
Content note: This episode discusses real violence and murder. Please take care while listening.
-----------------------------------------------------
Subscribe for more deep dives into cybercrime, investigations, and real-world threats.
Comment below: What’s the biggest online safety concern you have for your family right now?
Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode contains descriptions of child exploitation, grooming, self-harm, and suicide. Listener discretion is strongly advised. The information shared is for educational and awareness purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or the appropriate authorities right away.
Stay tuned for more episodes to come., where Jim will wrap up reveal the case.
Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann
-----------------------------------------------------
Special thanks to our partners: Podgo and Hi Hello Labs in Orlando, Florida, for powering and producing this show.
Sponsored by: Podgo Services
Produced at: Hi Hello Labs (Orlando, FL)" Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
| |||
| EP12 Behind the Badge: Major Meth Seizures, Fast Arrests, and Leadership - Sheriff Jason Ard Interview | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:46:17 | |
In this episode of The Jim Rathmann Podcast, Jim Rathmann sits down with Sheriff Jason Ard of the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office for a candid conversation on modern law enforcement, protecting communities, and what it takes to lead through high-pressure moments. Sheriff Ard shares real-world insight from 33 years in law enforcement, including how his agency responds quickly to violent crime, the realities of large-scale drug interdiction on the I-12 corridor, and what proactive policing looks like in one of the fastest-growing parishes in Louisiana. Jim and Sheriff Ard also address the difficult leadership challenges that come with betrayal inside the badge, the importance of protecting victims, and how agencies strengthen accountability while continuing to serve the public. They also discuss online predation and grooming cases tied to platforms like Discord, the challenges of investigating crimes involving minors, and why community support and appreciation for first responders matters more than ever. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Major drug seizures and proactive policing strategies How Livingston Parish handles rapid growth and rising demands Investigations involving online grooming and missing juveniles Leadership, trust, and protecting victims while maintaining transparency Specialized units (domestic violence, burglary, financial crimes) and how departments evolve If you support law enforcement, public safety, and real conversations about what’s happening in our communities, like, subscribe, and share. Subscribe for more deep dives into cybercrime, investigations, and real-world threats. Comment below: What’s the biggest online safety concern you have for your family right now? Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode contains descriptions of child exploitation, grooming, self-harm, and suicide. Listener discretion is strongly advised. The information shared is for educational and awareness purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or the appropriate authorities right away. Stay tuned for more episodes to come., where Jim will wrap up reveal the case. Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Harvard Morgue Case Explained: A Husband’s Quest for Justice - Dr. Jack Porter Interview | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:45:48 | |
In this powerful episode of The Jim Rathmann Show, Jim sits down with Dr. Jack Porter—a sociologist, criminologist, Holocaust survivor, and longtime Harvard researcher—to discuss the devastating breach of trust surrounding the Harvard Medical School morgue scandal. After losing his wife, Raya, to cancer and honoring her selfless wish to donate her body to science, Dr. Porter was met with the harrowing news that her remains may have been among those trafficked by former morgue manager Cedric Lodge. This sobering conversation explores Dr. Porter’s personal grief alongside a broader investigation into the underground network of "oddity dealers," exposing systemic oversight failures and the enduring quest for ethics and accountability in the face of a national betrayal. This episode explores: The Harvard Medical School Anatomical Gift Program and how it was supposed to work The indictment and sentencing of Cedric Lodge and others involved How hundreds of families were potentially impacted The psychological profile behind crimes involving stolen human remains The emotional toll on families who believed they were honoring loved ones What must change to protect future donors and restore trust in medical institutions Dr. Porter also offers critical advice for anyone considering body donation, including what questions to ask, what institutions to trust, and how to protect your family from similar harm. This is not just an investigation. It’s a human story about dignity, loss, and the consequences when oversight fails. Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Cyber Warfare: Dr. James McGibney | 04 Feb 2026 | 00:55:41 | |
In this hard-hitting episode, Jim sits down with Dr. James McGibney, the founder of Bullyville and the investigator featured in the Netflix documentary The Most Hated Man on the Internet. Dr. McGibney breaks down the real-world dangers happening online right now, from revenge porn and cyberstalking to extremist grooming networks targeting kids. In a powerful segment of the show, Jim and James discuss 764, exposing the disturbing reality of these online predatory networks and what parents must know to keep their children safe. You’ll hear the behind-the-scenes story of the takedown of IsAnyoneUp.com and how Hunter Moore became one of the internet’s most notorious villains. Jim and Dr. McGibney also talk about military brotherhood, surviving childhood trauma, and what it takes to go to war with online predators and bullies. Inside the Episode We dive deep into the mechanics of online harassment and the practical steps you can take to harden your home's defenses: The Predator’s Playbook: How cyberbullies operate and why they feel untouchable behind a screen. The Dark Web Economy: Understanding the underground markets for harassment, extortion, and stalking-for-hire. Hardening Your Home Network: Why you should separate your home Wi-Fi into multiple networks and how to monitor traffic via your router. Digital Parenting: Crucial conversations about screenshots, "disappearing" apps, and the permanency of a digital footprint. Taking Action: How victims can request the removal of intimate images from search results and what to do when the legal system falls short. Resources mentioned: Bullyville (help and reporting) Bully Hunter (A&E) Search: “Google remove unwanted image-based sexual abuse” to find the removal request form If you or someone you love is dealing with cyberstalking, harassment, sextortion, or online abuse, share this episode with them. Subscribe for more deep dives into cybercrime, investigations, and real-world threats. Comment below: What’s the biggest online safety concern you have for your family right now? Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode contains descriptions of child exploitation, grooming, self-harm, and suicide. Listener discretion is strongly advised. The information shared is for educational and awareness purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or the appropriate authorities right away. Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann Special thanks to our partners: Podgo and Hi Hello Labs in Orlando, Florida, for powering and producing this show. Sponsored by: Podgo Services Produced at: Hi Hello Labs (Orlando, FL) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Fake Ashes, Stolen Bodies: The Shocking Harvard Medical School Morgue Scandal | 28 Jan 2026 | 00:29:36 | |
Harvard morgue scandal exposed. In this episode of The Jim Rathmann Podcast, Jim breaks down one of the most disturbing criminal cases in recent history: the Harvard Medical School morgue scandal involving stolen human remains, fake ashes, and a nationwide black-market network. What began as a trusted donation to science turned into a years-long nightmare for hundreds of families. From 2018–2023, Harvard Medical School morgue manager Cedric Lodge allegedly orchestrated the theft and sale of human body parts, allowing buyers to hand-select remains and shipping them across the country. Families were given fake ashes while their loved ones were trafficked as “oddities.” Jim walks through: How donated cadavers were stripped, sold, and resold nationwide The shocking role of accomplices and oddity dealers The investigation that finally cracked the case The devastating impact on families who trusted elite institutions The horrifying story behind the Lux Law, created after a stillborn infant’s remains were sold instead of cremated This episode isn’t just about crime — it’s about trust, accountability, and honoring the dead. If this could happen at Harvard, where else could it be happening? Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode contains descriptions of child exploitation, grooming, self-harm, and suicide. Listener discretion is strongly advised. The information shared is for educational and awareness purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or the appropriate authorities right away. Stay tuned for more episodes to come., where Jim will wrap up reveal the case. Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann ----------------------------------------------------- Special thanks to our partners: Podgo and Hi Hello Labs in Orlando, Florida, for powering and producing this show. Sponsored by: Podgo Services Produced at: Hi Hello Labs (Orlando, FL) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Cemetery Thief: Selling the Dead for Profit | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:25:54 | |
In this episode of The Jim Rathmann Show, Jim dives into one of the most depraved criminal cases of his career—one that blurs the line between a criminal investigation and a real-life horror movie. When historic graves began to be desecrated at the Civil War–era Mount Moriah Cemetery near Philadelphia, investigators expected a case of simple vandalism; instead, they uncovered a gruesome, multi-state enterprise run by 34-year-old Jonathan Gerlach. Jim breaks down the investigation that led to the discovery of over 100 sets of human remains hidden in Gerlach’s home and storage units, ranging from centuries-old skeletons to recent burials still containing pacemakers and even the remains of infants. Jim walks you through every chilling detail of the investigation, beginning with how old-school police instincts combined with modern license plate readers and DNA evidence to catch a grave robber in the act. He takes you inside the search warrants that uncovered a macabre collection of bodies staged for display and skulls packaged for shipment, revealing the dark pipeline to the online oddities market. You’ll learn how stolen remains are funneled through private Facebook groups and digital marketplaces to oddities collectors seeking everything from human bones for "art" to skin for tanning. Jim also exposes the shocking legal loopholes regarding "antique" remains that allow this underground oddities trafficking to persist across state lines, while reflecting on the devastating emotional toll inflicted on families whose loved ones were stolen from their final resting places. Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann Special thanks to our partners: Podgo and Hi Hello Labs in Orlando, Florida, for powering and producing this show. Sponsored by: Podgo Services Produced at: Hi Hello Labs (Orlando, FL) Disclaimer: This episode contains descriptions of grave desecration and the handling of human remains. Listener discretion is strongly advised. The information shared is for educational and awareness purposes only. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| EP07 764 EXPOSED: The Origin of 764 - Interview with Ali Winston | 14 Jan 2026 | 01:02:39 | |
In this gripping episode of The Jim Rathmann Show, Jim dives deep into the disturbing rise of 764—a decentralized, predatory network that has moved far beyond the traditional boundaries of online crime. With a major new case surfacing in California, the threat is no longer theoretical; it is on our doorstep. To pull back the curtain on this digital underworld, Jim is joined by acclaimed investigative journalist Ali Winston. Winston, known for his relentless reporting on extremist groups and surveillance, breaks down the dark origins of 764. Together, they trace how this group evolved from fringe chat rooms into a sophisticated machine designed for "extortion-as-a-sport" and the psychological destruction of the vulnerable. In this episode, we discuss: The California Connection: An inside look at the latest case sent shockwaves through local law enforcement. The Genesis of Terror: Ali Winston reveals the ideological and technical roots of the 764 network. Digital Warfare: How 764 uses "sextortion" and "blackmail" as tools for control rather than profit. This is a must-listen for parents, educators, and law enforcement. The digital landscape has changed, and the predators of 764 are playing by a much more dangerous set of rules. - See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| EP06 764 EXPOSED: From Roblox to Bomb Threats - Interview with Det. Thomas VanTasel | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:38:13 | |
In this powerful and deeply unsettling episode, Jim Rathmann exposes the dark reality of the 764 network, a nihilistic violent extremist movement targeting children through online gaming platforms like Roblox, Discord, and other digital spaces. Jim breaks down a real case out of Vernon, Connecticut, involving a 17-year-old honor roll student who was groomed, exploited, and ultimately manipulated into becoming an active participant in online bomb threats, swatting incidents, and digital extortion. What began as victimization escalated into coordinated threats against schools, religious institutions, public libraries, and government buildings, triggering a massive law enforcement response across state and federal agencies. Joining Jim is Detective Thomas Van Tassel of the Vernon Police Department, a nationally recognized investigator with deep expertise in digital forensics and online extremism. Together, they unpack how the case unfolded, how investigators identified digital patterns across international borders, and why the FBI has labeled networks like 764 a modern-day terrorist threat. Most importantly, this episode equips parents, educators, and guardians with critical insight into: How children are groomed online through gaming and chat platforms Warning signs of online exploitation and self-harm How extremist groups manipulate vulnerable youth Practical steps parents can take to protect their children’s devices and digital lives This is not fear-mongering. This is awareness. And it may save a life. If you have children who game online, this episode is required listening. Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode contains descriptions of child exploitation, grooming, self-harm, and suicide. Listener discretion is strongly advised. The information shared is for educational and awareness purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or the appropriate authorities right away. Stay tuned for more episodes to come., where Jim will wrap up reveal the case. Follow Jim on Instagram: @therealjimrathmann Special thanks to our partners: Podgo and Hi Hello Labs in Orlando, Florida, for powering and producing this show. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| EP05 764 EXPOSED: The Digital Cult Targeting Children | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:27:02 | |
Welcome back to The Jim Rathmann Podcast. Today’s episode covers one of the most disturbing and urgent threats facing children online today — the rise of a digital extremist network known as 764, a group the FBI has identified as a form of modern-day terrorism. Jim breaks down how 764 operates across platforms like Discord, Telegram, Roblox, and Minecraft, how they specifically target vulnerable kids ages 9–17, and the terrifying grooming tactics they use — from emotional manipulation to coercion, self-harm, animal cruelty, and even suicide. This episode also explores the heartbreaking case of 13-year-old Jay Taylor, whose death exposed the global scale of this network and triggered major FBI investigations spanning the U.S., Australia, and Germany. Jim walks through how predators build trust, obtain personal data, and weaponize shame to control their victims. Parents, guardians, educators, and anyone responsible for children must see this episode. Jim shares the red flags to watch for, behavior changes that could signal online exploitation, and the critical steps families must take to protect their children. If you witness or suspect online exploitation, report it immediately: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: www.ic3.gov National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: www.missingkids.org NCMEC Hotline: 1-800-THE-LOST A full multi-part series is coming, including expert interviews and former FBI investigators who have worked these cases firsthand. Stay vigilant. Protect your children. Share this episode with anyone who needs to know what is happening online. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| EP04 The Melanie Curtin Case - Part 4 | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:33:39 | |
Welcome back to The Jim Rathmann Podcast. In this Part 4 deep dive into the Melanie Curtin case, Jim walks you through exactly why the First Circuit Court of Appeal threw out her conviction and what the Louisiana Supreme Court decided next. From excluded evidence to prejudicial testimony, he breaks down the legal moves that led to Melanie’s case being overturned and what it really means for her future in court. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| EP03 The Melanie Curtin Case - Part 3 | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:28:06 | |
In this episode of The Jim Rathmann Podcast, former homicide investigator and U.S. Secret Service agent Jim Rathmann returns for Part 3 of the Melanie Curtin case and breaks down the exculpatory evidence a jury never heard. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| EP02 The Melanie Curtin Case - Part 2 | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:34:06 | |
In this episode of The Jim Rathmann Show, Jim returns with Part Two of the Melanie Curtin case and takes you inside the trial that led to her life sentence without parole – and why higher courts later called that conviction into question. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| EP01 The Melanie Curtin Case - Part 1 | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:37:46 | |
Welcome to The Jim Rathmann Podcast — where former Secret Service agent, homicide investigator, and LSU athlete Jim Rathmann takes a deep dive into some of the most complex and controversial cases in America. In this new multi-part series, Jim breaks down the Melanie Curtin case — one of the most shocking, misunderstood, and mishandled cases to come out of Louisiana. Before you continue, trigger warning: this episode contains sensitive and disturbing subject matter involving crimes against children and graphic criminal behavior. In this episode, Jim covers: How the arrest of Dennis and Cynthia Perkins exposed hundreds of thousands of disturbing files How a single video from 2014 pulled Melanie Curtin into the case years later Why Melanie became the first woman in Louisiana to receive life without parole for a woman-on-woman crime The major exculpatory evidence that was not allowed in court Why Jim — who once worked directly with Denny Perkins — believes a massive injustice occurred What the upcoming retrial (November 17) could reveal How victim testimony, missing follow-up questions, and blocked evidence shaped the original outcome The timeline leading from the 2014 LSU–Alabama game to Melanie’s arrest in 2020 The emergency room records, text messages, and digital evidence that point to the possibility Melanie was drugged Why critical search history from Denny’s devices — showing patterns and predatory behavior — was kept from the jury Insight from a juror who sat on Melanie’s case This is Part 1 of a full investigative breakdown. If you care about justice, truth, and accountability, don’t miss this series. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||