In this haunting deep dive, Jess Faulkner unpacks the true story behind one of America’s most infamous killers—and the myths that Hollywood built around him. Through fact, psychology, and dramatized storytelling, Jess explores Ed Gein’s fractured mind, Ryan Murphy’s chilling reinterpretation, and Charlie Hunnam’s descent into the role. But beyond the horror lies a harder truth: real monsters aren’t born in the dark—they’re made in plain sight. This episode examines how isolation, untreated mental illness, and silence can twist grief into something unrecognizable. Part true-crime study, part human-psyche reflection, The Real Monster asks not how evil begins, but how it’s ignored until it’s too late.

Content Warning: This episode includes detailed discussion of murder, grave desecration, and psychological trauma. Listener discretion is advised.