This episode contains descriptions of violent crimes and sexual assaults.

Please listen with caution.

Over the past few years, it seems like there's been increased interest in cases of true crime.

If you're listening right now, I would guess that you've noticed.

I mean, I can't be the only one who's driven around the block a couple of times so I didn't have to pause an episode before it was over.

And everyone has that one friend who agreed to erase their browser history if they're ever missing or incapacitated. But what is it about these horrific

tales that's compelling us to listen? Personally, I listen to and talk about cases of

true crime because I want to help people.

It's why I became a social worker and a therapist.

Sometimes though, the person who needs the most help is the one that's being overlooked.

When we talk about violent offenders,

we frequently attach dehumanizing labels,

like monster or villain.

We feel the need to make a clear distinction that we are not like them.

The killer in today's episode had extremely cruel behavior.

The first time I heard him speak, I felt physically sick.

This is first kill, number one.

First kill was nice.

I reminded myself, though, like I had many times before, that I have a choice.

I could distance myself, walk away and hide behind labels, or I could try and learn about

his behavior and use that to help other people.

If I walked away, who would that really benefit?

...