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Killer Psyche

Author: Wondery | Treefort Media

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When a shocking crime occurs, people ask “Why?” Was it about power, ego, or revenge? On Killer Psyche, retired FBI agent Candice DeLong draws on her decades of experience to reveal why these murderers and criminals committed these heinous acts. She will reveal fascinating new details about what drove these people, including cases she was close to. Candice will share specific psychological methods and profiling techniques that experts use to understand the deepest part of the most complex, fascinating, and twisted minds, from the Unabomber to Alex Murdaugh to Mary Bell. Winner of the 2025 Bronze Signal Award for True Crime podcasts.


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122 Episodes
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Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong examines the chilling case of Elliot Rodger, the self-described “supreme gentleman” whose violent resentment toward women exploded into a deadly rampage in Isla Vista, California, in 2014. While frequenting self-validating incel forums online, offline, Rodger struggled with social rejection, mental-health crises, and a growing obsession with punishing the people he believed had wronged him. By the time the violence erupted, six people were dead and fourteen more injured. Candice explores how alienation, narcissism, and extremist online communities converged to create a perfect storm; and how Rodger’s attack marked a turning point in understanding grievance-based violence, misogynistic extremism, and the psychology behind modern lone-actor killers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong examines the horrifying case of Katherine Knight, the first woman in Australian history to be sentenced to life in prison without parole. In 2000, Knight brutally murdered her partner, John Price, in a crime so gruesome it shocked the nation. Known for her violent temper and turbulent relationships, Knight’s life was marked by jealousy, control, and explosive rage. When Price tried to leave her, that rage reached its deadly peak. Candice explores how deep-seated trauma and a pattern of escalating violence culminated in one of Australia’s most chilling crimes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong examines the shocking case of Ali Abulaban, known online as “JinnKid,” and later, as ""The TikTok Murderer."" In October 2021, the social media influencer brutally killed his estranged wife, Ana, and her friend, Ray Barron, inside a San Diego high-rise apartment. At first, Abulaban appeared to have it all: fame, followers and a picture-perfect family. But beneath the curated clips and comedy skits was a man consumed by jealousy, rage and a desperate need for validation. His obsession with his online persona was so overpowering that he secretly recorded his wife- and even captured the sound of her final moments. Candice explores how ego, fame and control collided in a digital age tragedy that blurred the line between reality and performance with deadly consequences.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong explores the disturbing case of Ed Kemper, known as “The Co-Ed Killer.” In the early 1970s, young women began vanishing from the streets of Northern California. When the truth finally came to light, it revealed a killer unlike any other: a towering, soft-spoken man whose charm and intellect hid monstrous impulses. By the time he was caught, eight people – including his own mother – were dead. Only later would investigators learn that Kemper’s knack for violence began years earlier. Candice examines how deep resentment, emotional isolation, and a fractured relationship with his mother fueled one of the most chilling killing sprees of the decade, and how his later cooperation with the FBI helped shape modern criminal profiling.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong dives into the infamous case of Bryan Kohberger. In November 2022, four University of Idaho students were brutally murdered in their off-campus home, kicking off a six-week manhunt that captivated the world. When investigators traced DNA evidence and digital data back to Kohberger, a criminology PhD student studying the psychology of killers, the story took an even darker turn. Candice examines how Kohberger’s lifelong social isolation, feelings of rejection, and status as an outcast may have fueled a deep psychological need for power and control, and how his fascination with criminal minds may have ultimately led him to become one himself.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong dives into the murders of 14 year-old Libby German and 13 year-old Abigail Williams. After five years, Richard Allen has been arrested for the "delphi murders." Candice also speaks with journalist Susan Hendrix, who covered the case and has written a new book about it entitled, "Down the Hill: My Descent into the Double Murder in Delphi."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In part 2 of this 2 part episode, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong discusses how she joined the FBI and started as a profiler. Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In part 1 of this 2 part episode, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong discusses how she joined the FBI and started as a profiler. She revisits some of the cases that impacted her early career, and the lessons she's learned along the way.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the second episode of our two-parter, retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong continues the case of Sante and Kenneth Kimes, a mother-son duo whose criminal exploits shocked the nation. Candice digs deeper into the complicated and potentially incestuous relationship between mother and son, and how their dynamic contributed to their cycle of grift and murder.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong walks us through the sinister activities of Sante and Kenneth Kimes, a mother-son duo whose criminal exploits shocked the nation. They were jailed for, among other crimes, the murder of 82 year old Irene Silverman in 2000, after Sante plotted to kill her to take ownership of her Upper East Side mansion. Candice explores the complicated and potentially incestuous relationship between mother and son, and what might have led them down this trail of death.  Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the second half of this two-parter, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong digs into the case of Harold Frederick Shipman: The Original Dr. Death. A prominent doctor in the UK during the late 1990s, Dr. Shipman murdered at least 230 of his patients, mostly elderly women. Candice examines the factors that could have made a man that was sworn to do no harm, take so many lives. Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the first half of this two-part episode, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong digs into the case of Harold Frederick Shipman: The Original Dr. Death. A prominent doctor in the UK during the late 1990s, Dr. Shipman murdered at least 230 of his patients, mostly elderly women. Candice examines the factors that could have made a man that was sworn to do no harm, take so many lives. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the second half of this two-parter, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong digs deeper into the crimes of Brian Dugan. Having worked on this case personally, Candice's inside knowledge brings a unique perspective to this murderer.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the first half of this two part episode, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong revisits the crimes of Brian Dugan. Having worked on this case personally, Candice's inside knowledge brings a unique perspective to this murderer.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the second half of this two-part episode, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong continues to explore the case of Richard Loeb and Nathan Leopold, two young men who murdered 14-year-old Bobby Franks. 19-year-old Nathan and 18-year-old Richard sought to commit what they called ""the perfect murder."", In this episode, Candice focuses not only on the the murderers' psyche, but also on the role psychiatry played in their trial. Killer Psyche releases new episodes weekly. You can listen to Killer Psyche one week early and ad-free by subscribing to Wondery+ in Apple Podcasts or the Wondery app.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the first half of this two-part episode, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong explores the case of Richard Loeb and Nathan Leopold, two young men who murdered 14-year-old Bobby Franks. 19-year-old Nathan and 18-year-old Richard sought to commit what they called "the perfect murder." Candice dives deep into the psyches of the two men who perpetrated one of the most sensational crimes of the 20th century.Killer Psyche releases new episodes weekly. You can listen to Killer Psyche one week early and ad-free by subscribing to Wondery+ in Apple Podcasts or the Wondery app.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the second half of this two-parter, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong digs deeper into the case of Cindy White. We learn the real reasons that 18 year old Cindy White set the fire that took the lives of 6 people, including four children. Using both court documents and her own interviews with Cindy, Candice delves into what could have driven Cindy to commit this deadly crime - and the miscarriage of justice that ensued. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the first half of this two-parter, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong digs into the case of Cindy White. 1n 1975, 18 year old Cindy set a fire that took the lives of 6 people, including four children. Using both court documents and her own interviews with Cindy, Candice delves into what could have driven Cindy to commit this deadly crime.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the first half of this two-part episode, former FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong digs into the case of Susan Polk. When she was just 15, a troubled and lonely Susan sought the help of a psychologist named Dr. Felix Polk. Instead, she wound up marrying her therapist, and eventually, killing him. In part one, we learn about the history that drew Susan to her future husband, and what set them both on the road to disaster.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the season finale of Killer Psyche, retired FBI agent and criminal profiler Candice DeLong dives into the infamous case of David Berkowitz, the “Son of Sam.” Between 1976 and 1977, Berkowitz wreaked havoc on the boroughs of New York with a string of shootings that took the lives of six people and wounded several others. Even more shocking was his motive: a demonic dog told him to kill. But was David Berkowitz truly psychotic, or was his claim of insanity all an act? Candice delves into the rage and resentment brewing in Berkowitz from early in his life, and shares fascinating details from his interviews with FBI profiling pioneers Robert Ressler and John Douglas.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterNeed more Killer Psyche? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App or visit wondery.app.link/TI5l5KzpDLb now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Comments (615)

Sean Rosenau

I hate the face this kid made in his videos. He looked so smug.

Dec 2nd
Reply

M. Jacobi

imagine someone who is you have all your Hope on betray and kill your dear ones just imagine if there were death penalty for such cases the world would be a better place

Oct 2nd
Reply

Hayden Vanier

The fact is that even if they reported it, the justice system wouldn't have done anything substantial about it, and even if the parents were jailed, they could always be released. Killing them was final. Maybe money played a small role, but if it did, i think it was more along the line of: you put us through all of this, and this inheritance is the least you could do to repay what you did. They were guilty, but they didn't deserve a life sentence.

Aug 2nd
Reply

Melissa

Rusty is /was one of the worst husbands that ever lived. Women are not baby making machines.

Jul 3rd
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Punk Rocket

Where is part 2?

Jun 9th
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Sharon Bateman

I just listened to an episode that talks of what the survivors of losing a person to suicide goes through that finally gave me relief. I lost my wife to suicide and I have struggled with speaking of it. Thank you

May 17th
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Sean Rosenau

36:45 You're putting the blame on the husband? Doesn't surprise me. Typical female psychologist.

May 14th
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Melissa

absolutely terrifying.

Mar 31st
Reply

Stay Sea

nah, they know it's wrong or they wouldn't hide it from everyone. Sure they think they're better than everyone and that's why they think they will never be caught.

Mar 24th
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Brian Linn

I truly agree with MA ARS. I really love how Candice explain alone that it really annoys me when the co host is included.

Mar 7th
Reply

cyrus

what an absolute sicko

Mar 5th
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David Mullen

Episode missed out co conspirators and their role in attempts to kill Seward and Johnson etc. Role of Surratt etc. Plus Booth was not alone when surrounded by Union troops. Motive, trial and hanging of conspirators including Mary Surratt.

Feb 18th
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Rachael Brubaker Biehler

I want to like this podcast, but she talks so slow that it sounds like she's talking to a 5 year old...i just CAN'T.

Jan 9th
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David Mullen

If psychopaths are born, that is it's a genetic abnormality...why are they culpable...is there no "cure" as such? Are they insane?

Jan 7th
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Melissa

This episode made me cry again.

Dec 31st
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Melissa

This episode made me cry again.

Dec 31st
Reply

kuman30

the amount of commercials in this podcast is out of control. 5 minutes of advertising at the beginning puts Ben Shapiro to shame.

Dec 3rd
Reply

KBB

she talks so slow that I have to increase the speed to 1.2 Now it's way easier to listen to

Sep 12th
Reply

lil john

I found a video of the day the detective and her parole office came to her house…very long video unedited..you can find the video on archive.org..it even shows the part where she was standing outside with the cops and then you see her leave..right before they found the first body..it’s crazy how close the her neighbors house was and she buried a body right up against the fences..the neighbors had no clue..that’s scary..

Aug 28th
Reply

KBB

The sequence of events is mixed up In this one.

Aug 27th
Reply
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