Talking Dateline: Take Two
1Digest
This podcast features discussions on Craig Melvin's "Glass Half Bowl" and Kate Snow's "The Drink" podcasts before diving deep into the Dateline episode "Take Two." The episode centers on a complex murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by Ira Bernstein against his wife, Susan, with his lover Kelly Gribblek. A key focus is the remarkable bravery and quick thinking of Mark McKenzie, who assisted investigators in thwarting the plot. The conversation highlights Ira's persistent victim mentality, his deceitful schemes, including an absurd plan to plant drugs in Susan's car, and the devastating impact on his family. The unique nature of "Take Two" is discussed, as no death occurred, and the episode explores the extended timelines of Dateline stories, the emotional toll of undercover operations, and the legal ramifications for those involved.
Outlines
Podcast Previews and Dateline's "Take Two" Introduction
Craig Melvin introduces his podcast "Glass Half Bowl," and Kate Snow previews her podcast "The Drink." The hosts then introduce the Dateline episode "Take Two," a case involving an undercover sting and a murder-for-hire plot.
The "Take Two" Case: Plot and Key Players
The Dateline episode "Take Two" is summarized, detailing Ira Bernstein's affair with Kelly Gribblek and their plot to kill his wife, Susan. The crucial role of Mark McKenzie in thwarting the plan is highlighted, noting the unusual aspect that no death occurred.
Mark McKenzie's Bravery and Ira Bernstein's Deceit
The discussion emphasizes Mark McKenzie's bravery in assisting investigators and his clever deflection of Ira's suspicions during an undercover operation. Ira Bernstein's victim mentality, contempt for his wife, and manipulative schemes, including a drug-planting plot, are explored.
Complicity, Trauma, and Legal Aftermath
The loyalty and actions of Kelly Gribblek are examined, along with Susan Bernstein's trauma and desire for privacy. The landscaper's role as another victim of Ira's manipulation is revealed, and the ease with which murder-for-hire plots are hatched is discussed. Social media questions about the case are addressed, concluding the discussion on "Take Two" and promoting an upcoming Dateline episode.
Keywords
Glass Half Bowl Podcast
A podcast hosted by Craig Melvin featuring candid conversations with individuals about their defining moments, triumphs, and challenges, aiming to inspire an optimistic outlook.
The Drink with Kate Snow
A podcast hosted by NBC News anchor Kate Snow, where she engages in candid conversations with celebrities, musicians, and athletes over their chosen drinks, exploring their paths to success.
Dateline "Take Two"
A Dateline NBC episode detailing a complex case involving a murder-for-hire plot, undercover stings, and unexpected twists, focusing on the actions of Ira and Susan Bernstein and Kelly Gribblek.
Murder for Hire Plot
A criminal conspiracy where one party pays another to commit murder. This often involves intricate planning and carries severe legal consequences for all involved.
Undercover Sting Operation
A law enforcement tactic where officers go undercover to gather evidence or apprehend criminals. These operations require careful planning and can involve significant personal risk.
Victim Mentality
A psychological pattern where an individual perceives themselves as a victim, often blaming others for their problems and avoiding personal responsibility.
Mark McKenzie
A key figure in the "Take Two" Dateline episode who bravely assisted investigators in thwarting a murder-for-hire plot, demonstrating significant courage and quick thinking.
Kelly Gribblek
A central figure in the "Take Two" Dateline episode, involved in a murder-for-hire plot with Ira Bernstein. Her loyalty and actions are a significant aspect of the case.
Ira Bernstein
The husband in the "Take Two" Dateline episode, who orchestrated a murder-for-hire plot against his wife, Susan. He is characterized by his victim mentality and deceitful actions.
Susan Bernstein
The wife in the "Take Two" Dateline episode who was the target of a murder-for-hire plot by her husband, Ira. Her experience highlights the trauma and fear associated with such threats.
Q&A
What is the main premise of Craig Melvin's "Glass Half Bowl" podcast?
"Glass Half Bowl" is a podcast where Craig Melvin interviews fascinating individuals about their defining moments, triumphs, and challenges, encouraging listeners to adopt an optimistic perspective.
Who is featured in Kate Snow's "The Drink" podcast, and what is the format?
Kate Snow's podcast features celebrities, musicians, and athletes. The format involves candid conversations over their drinks of choice, exploring their journeys and how they achieved success.
What makes the Dateline episode "Take Two" unique compared to other Dateline stories?
"Take Two" is unique because, despite two murder plots, no actual death occurred. The focus is on the thwarted attempts and the investigation, rather than a completed crime.
How did Mark McKenzie become involved in thwarting the murder plot in "Take Two"?
Mark McKenzie was approached by Ira Bernstein with the murder-for-hire proposition. Instead of participating, McKenzie chose to cooperate with the police, playing a crucial role in the investigation.
What is Ira Bernstein's dominant psychological trait as discussed in the podcast?
Ira Bernstein is consistently described as having a strong "victim mentality." He tends to blame others for his actions and circumstances, rarely taking personal responsibility.
Can you describe Kelly Gribblek's role and demeanor in the "Take Two" case?
Kelly Gribblek was Ira Bernstein's lover and accomplice in the murder plot. When interviewed, she displayed a strange lack of remorse and unwavering loyalty to Ira, acting as his protector.
What was Ira Bernstein's absurd plan to harm his wife, Susan, that was revealed in the extended interview?
Ira Bernstein suggested planting a kilo of drugs in Susan's car to have her arrested. This plan was revealed during a conversation with a landscaper, highlighting the extreme and illogical nature of his schemes.
Why did Ira Bernstein only receive a short prison sentence for the murder plots?
Ira Bernstein did not plead guilty to conspiracy to commit murder. He pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence, a charge that carries a lesser sentence than the actual murder plot.
What was the outcome of Susan Bernstein's lawsuit against Ira and his sister?
Susan Bernstein sued both Ira and his sister for damages related to the murder plots. This lawsuit is still unresolved, indicating ongoing legal repercussions for Ira's actions.
What is the significance of the landscaper's involvement in Ira Bernstein's schemes?
The landscaper was another individual manipulated by Ira Bernstein. Ira convinced him to participate in the drug-planting scheme, leading the landscaper to lose control of his business and become another victim.
Show Notes
Blayne Alexander sits down with Andrea Canning to talk about her episode, “Take Two,” about a murder-for-hire plot targeting the wife of podiatrist Ira Bernstein. Blayne and Andrea break down the undercover sting involving a car salesman who stepped in to play the role of hit man, and the shocking twist that happened after the guilty parties had done their time, making the case feel more like a movie than real life. Plus, they play a portion of Andrea’s interview with a detective that didn’t make the broadcast, which reveals another potential plot against Susan Bernstein. Andrea reflects on her own experience going undercover, and she and Blayne answer your questions from social media.
Have a question for Talking Dateline? DM us @DatelineNBC or leave a voicemail at (212) 413-5252 – your question could be featured in an upcoming episode.
Listen to the full episode of “Take Two” on Apple: https://apple.co/3N8I0VZ
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0X5hkAuixjqqAvfPxnXkOQ
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Table of contents
United States
