In this powerful season finale of True Crime & Hollywood: A Personal Tale, Celene Beth sits down with director, producer, and award-winning journalist Nicole Noren for the very first time to talk about LISTEN, the ESPN documentary that told the story of Lauren McCluskey’s life, advocacy, and tragic case. Together, they reflect on their intersecting journeys involving Lauren’s story, the personal and emotional responsibility that comes with telling true crime narratives, and the importance of honoring the beautiful soul Lauren was.
Nicole, who spent years at ESPN producing more than 50 investigative reports and short documentaries, has earned six Emmy Awards, two Edward R. Murrow Awards, and a Peabody for her work covering education, health, and social issues. She recently left ESPN to pursue independent filmmaking, focusing on socially conscious projects that amplify underrepresented stories and create real-world impact.
In this episode, Celene and Nicole discuss what it has meant to collaborate closely with the McCluskey family and the Lauren McCluskey Foundation. Nicole shares her experience creating a documentary that not only holds systems accountable but honors Lauren’s life, voice, and legacy in every frame. They talk about how true crime films can be made ethically and factually, while being mindful of the lived realities behind the headlines, and why Lauren’s story continues to move and inspire so many.
This conversation is a reminder that what we consume on our screens often comes from someone else’s lived trauma and heartbreak. It challenges storytellers and audiences alike to hold space for that truth and to remember the people behind the stories.
Content Note: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault and other themes of violence against women. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs support, resources are listed below in the episode summary.
Quincy Durkin is a queer aspiring filmmaker who found her voice on social media after a life-altering experience at her first full-time job. What began as an exciting opportunity working with basketball influencer "The Professor" quickly turned into something much darker and traumatic. In the years since, Quincy has courageously spoken out about her experiences and the harm she endured within Fearless Church, a group closely tied to that chapter of her life.
Through her advocacy, she has built a platform dedicated to supporting survivors and raising awareness about cult dynamics, coercive control, and the ways these systems manifest in both religious and digital spaces. Her work is grounded in resilience, advocacy, and a commitment to creating safer, trauma-informed communities.
When she’s not advocating, Quincy finds joy in music, travel, and quiet moments with her pups. A devoted fan of her favorite band, MUNA, she embraces the small, grounding rituals that bring comfort and peace amid the ongoing work of healing!
Resources For Sexual Assault Survivors:
For Trans and Queer Survivors:
LGBTQIA+ Community Support:
True crime producer Rachel Giberman returns for her second personal tale on the podcast, continuing a conversation shaped by her years of experience both in the field and behind the scenes. As one of our previous guests, Rachel reflects on some of the more difficult moments in her career and the ongoing need to advocate for herself and others in an industry that often asks creatives to carry heavy emotional burdens without proper support.
In this episode, Rachel shares more stories from her time working in environments ranging from jails to prisons and opens an important conversation about the challenges true crime producers and crew members face while working in the industry. Together, Rachel and Celene Beth discuss the difficulties of producing sensitive, traumatic content without creative control and the emotional toll of being regularly exposed to crime scene photos, explicit case details, and deeply distressing material — often without safeguards, protocols, or resources in place to protect those behind the scenes.
This is a conversation about resilience, responsibility, and what it truly means to keep showing up as a storyteller in this space.
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Celene Beth is joined by Anne Marie Hauben, a survivor of sexual assault, to discuss the lasting impact of experiencing such trauma at just 18 years old. Anne shares her story of being assaulted during a high school trip to Bermuda, an experience made even more painful by the fact that her assailant later became a local politician. Together, Celene and Anne explore the emotional aftermath of assault and how it changes the course of a survivor’s life.
Anne’s decision to speak out was inspired by the courageous public testimonies of survivors like Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and E. Jean Carroll. Their actions helped shine a light on the importance of breaking silence, and Anne's story serves as a powerful reminder that local cases deserve just as much attention and justice as those that make national headlines.
In addition to sharing her experience, Anne has become an advocate for others. Last November, she organized and hosted an event for Callisto, an encrypted platform that allows survivors to safely determine whether their perpetrator has harmed others, with or without formally reporting. Through this work, she is helping build a community rooted in safety, connection, and empowerment.
This episode is a testament to the courage it takes to speak out and the critical need to support survivors and pursue justice at every level!
For more information about Callisto, please visit: https://www.projectcallisto.org/
Anne Marie’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/amplifiedvoicehealing?igsh=ZGkzMmhzbm1sNDFp:
In this episode, Celene Beth welcomes back another member of the In Pursuit with John Walsh family—Kyle Joyce. A seasoned cameraman and former aspiring comic, Kyle brings a unique blend of emotional insight and unexpected humor to the conversation. His work behind the lens has helped tell some of the most powerful stories on television, from the intense kitchens of Chopped to the justice-driven investigations of In Pursuit.
Kyle spent seasons four and five on the road with the In Pursuit team, working alongside the Walsh family in their pursuit of justice. While his experience differs from other family members who have joined the podcast, his perspective is deeply rooted in the shared mission, and his voice adds another layer to the story of what it means to be part of this work.
Kyle also reflects on fatherhood, the emotional toll of filming true crime, and the pressure of working in high-stakes environments. And thanks to his roots in comedy, there are plenty of laughs along the way, making this episode as heartfelt as it is entertaining!
Trigger Warning:
Please note, this episode contains discussions of sexual violence, suicide, conversion therapy, self-harm, and other mature and potentially distressing themes. Listener discretion is heavily advised.
In this deeply impactful episode, Celene Beth sits down with Zachary Mallory, a survivor, speaker, and change maker who’s turning pain into purpose. Zachary (he/they) is a survivor of domestic gun violence, sexual violence, and conversion therapy. Today, they’re using their story as a powerful tool for advocacy, influencing national policy and creating safe spaces for others to rise above trauma.
As the Founder of the Rise Above Justice Movement, Zachary leads a growing grassroots network amplifying survivor voices and pushing for meaningful reform. With over 80,000 followers on Instagram and over 15 years of experience in activism, they’ve earned national recognition, including the Spirit of Matthew Award, the HALO Effect, and the mPower Award.
This episode dives into resilience, justice, and how lived experience can drive real, lasting change. Don’t miss this raw and inspiring conversation with Zachary & Celene Beth!
Rise Above Justice Movement: https://www.instagram.com/riseabovejusticemovement/
Support Resources:
RAINN (Sexual Assault): 1-800-656-4673 | rainn.org
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 | 988lifeline.org
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth): 1-866-488-7386 | Text “START” to 678-678 | thetrevorproject.org
Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860 | translifeline.org
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 | Text “START” to 88788 | thehotline.org
Born Perfect (Conversion Therapy Resources): nclrights.org/bornperfect
Self-Injury Outreach & Support: sioutreach.org
Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of sexual assault, suicide ideation, and murder. Listener discretion is advised.
This week on Off-Script, Celene Beth and Lauren Skae dive headfirst into the unholy trifecta of the internet’s most delusional Hasbeens: Billy Jensen, Armie Hammer, and Jessica Reed Kraus. From self-proclaimed heroes to self-serving manipulators, these three prove that when the spotlight fades, some will torch their credibility just to stay seen.
In a raw and unfiltered moment, Celene shares the devastation of discovering that her abuser—disgraced true crime figure Billy Jensen was given a platform by Armie Hammer. What followed wasn’t journalism or conversation—it was a PR stunt dressed up as a podcast. Survivors were mocked, gaslit, and re-traumatized while Jensen spun a narrative rooted in denial and deflection while Armie nodded along in willful ignorance. This wasn’t just victim-blaming, it was merely a coordinated erasure of accountability.
And then there’s Jessica Reed Kraus, the influencer-turned-“investigator” who has built a brand on aestheticized storytelling and thinly veiled misogyny. Recently exposed in Vanity Fair for everything from misinformation to her laughable claim of being a White House press member (spoiler: it was a single-day guest pass), Kraus continues to uphold the very systems that protect abusers.
Make no mistake—she’s another apologist who would likely applaud the kind of narrative Billy and Armie shamelessly pushed. Make no mistake—she is not a bystander in this conversation. She’s part of the problem.
This isn’t just a reckoning—it’s a refusal to stay silent while abusers and their enablers manipulate the narrative. It’s about holding the mic with intention, protecting truth over performance, and reminding everyone exactly who deserves to be heard.
In this episode, memoirist and essayist Laura Donovan joins Celene Beth to talk about her path from digital journalism to true crime and personal storytelling. Laura, who once served as the social media manager for Crime Watch Daily with Chris Hansen, shares what it was like working in the fast-paced world of true crime TV—including her experience collaborating with Billy Jensen, a former fixture in the genre whose influence has faded following sexual assault allegations and the removal of his podcast from the Exactly Right Network.
Now a writer focused on neurodivergence, identity, and motherhood, Laura opens up about being diagnosed with autism after both of her young sons received the same diagnosis. She discusses how that revelation reframed her understanding of herself, her relationships, and her past—including her time in the true crime world. A lifelong observer and self-described grown-up Harriet the Spy (if Harriet got a little softer with age), Laura brings a unique lens to storytelling—one sharpened by her neurodivergence, deep curiosity, and passion for justice.
She also sheds light on the cold case of Ashley Brown, a Nashville nurse who went missing in December 2016 and was later found murdered. Ashley’s story remains unsolved and largely overlooked, and Laura discusses why these kinds of stories matter, and what still needs to be done.
If you have any information related to Ashley Brown’s case, please contact the Metro Nashville Police Department’s Cold Case Unit at (615) 862-7329.
In this deeply personal and powerful episode, Bill Thomas, the older brother of Cathy Thomas—one of the victims of the Colonial Parkway Murders—shares his journey of grief, advocacy, and the pursuit of justice. Cathy, along with her girlfriend Rebecca Dowski, was tragically murdered in 1986, their bodies discovered in a remote area along the Colonial Parkway in Virginia. Their deaths remain part of an unsolved case that still haunts the region.
Bill, now a passionate advocate for the victims, discusses not only his personal loss but also the broader impact of the case, shedding light on the importance of keeping such stories alive in the media. Alongside his co-host Kristin Dilley, Bill continues his advocacy through the Mind Over Murder podcast, using his platform to keep the victims' memories alive and push for answers, for victims alike.
Bill and Celene Beth delve into the rising popularity of comedy true crime podcasts discussing the often delicate balance between entertainment and the gravity of real-life tragedy.
Bill also reflects on his friendship with the late, great Michelle McNamara, the celebrated author and true crime advocate. Bill shares personal stories about their time together and how her work, particularly her groundbreaking efforts, has shaped his own journey in advocating for the Colonial Parkway victims.
This episode is a moving tribute to Cathy, Rebecca, and the other victims, as well as a candid exploration of the complexities and emotional weight of advocating for justice, both in the media and in law enforcement.
If someone has information related to the Colonial Parkway Murders, they can contact the FBI's Richmond Field Office. Here are the contact details:
Phone: (804) 261-1044
Email: richmondtips@fbi.gov
Additionally, tips can be submitted online through the FBI's tip submission page: https://tips.fbi.gov
Things have taken a serious turn for Jessica Reed Kraus, aka HouseinHabit, as her grift unravels in a very public way. In this episode, Lauren Skae joins Celene Beth to discuss the explosive events of the past week, which have brought people from all political backgrounds together in the wake of Jessica's actions. From the fallout with her closest friends and ghost conspiracy theory writers to her controversial ties with Candace Owens, the drama has reached a fever pitch.
Lauren, who’s written a comprehensive Substack article outlining the timeline of these events, breaks it all down for us. Celene and Lauren explore how Jessica has consistently platformed known abusers, regularly attacked women, and used her influence for personal gain. We discuss the far-reaching consequences of her grift, which has not only traumatized trauma survivors but is now affecting those within her inner circle.
Be sure to check out Lauren's Substack for all the details, and don’t forget—season 2 continues next Wednesday, April 9th. You won’t want to miss it!
Lauren's Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/laurenskae/p/current-fixation-182?r=1dh7o2&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
In this insightful episode of Off-Script, Celene Beth is joined by the one and only, Christl Stringer, a filmmaker, artist, visionary, and a wealth of knowledge, to discuss the complexities of consuming true crime media as women of color.
They explore how marginalized communities, particularly Black individuals, are portrayed in documentary narratives, with a discussion on The Stroll (directed by Kristen Lovell and Zackary Drucker) and Kokomo City (directed by D. Smith). These films reflect the experiences of the Black trans community, particularly around sex work, and highlight the challenges faced at the intersection of race, gender, and societal marginalization.They also address the #MeToo movement’s impact on the Black community, and how survivors who broke their silence sparked essential conversations around sexual violence.
The conversation then shifts to politics, touching on the critical and tumultuous impact of Trump’s America, his administration, and the likelihood of election interference. Celene and Christl also discuss how to engage with those who hold opposing views, while also reflecting on the broader cultural issues, such as separating art from the artist and the rise of the ultimate scam artist in America.
With Christl’s visionary perspective, this episode offers a candid exploration of resistance, survival, and the ongoing fight for justice in a world that often silences marginalized voices.
Follow Christl on IG: https://www.instagram.com/christlstringer/?hl=en
Christl's Artwork: https://shop.see.me/collections/christl-stringer
Christl's Ice Cream Review Substack: https://substack.com/@inthelickofit
This is a La Activista Production. Host: Celene Beth Olsen with Music by Mickey O'Brien
In this episode, Amanda Edwards and Celene Beth delve into the often-overlooked mental health implications of working in the creative arts. Drawing from Amanda’s extensive background in dance, theater, and mental health, the conversation explores how trauma impacts not only survivors but also creatives, actors, and crew members. Amanda shares her journey from her childhood in the studios of New Jersey Ballet to her extensive trauma work and studies, specializing in somatic and attachment healing. She discusses how she’s integrating mental health awareness into various industries, from Broadway to student films, and emphasizes the importance of supporting everyone involved in the creation process.
Amanda and Celene Beth go on to explore the critical need for mental health support in environments where trauma is not only depicted but often used as a story point. They touch on the impact of these subjects on individuals who bring them to life, from the actors to the crew, and how mental health professionals can help maintain well-being in the creative process. As Co-Founder and President of the Association of Mental Health Coordinators, Amanda works to ensure that mental health is not just an afterthought but an integral part of every project, creating healthier and more sustainable creative environments for all involved!
To learn more about AMHC: https://www.associationmhc.com/
AMHC IG: https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthcoordinators/
Trans Tape to purchase! : https://transtape.life/
**Please note this episode discusses murder, crimes committed against children, sexual assault, and other mature themes. Listener discretion is heavily advised.**
In this episode, Celene Beth and Callahan Walsh sit down for the first time since wrapping season 4 of In Pursuit with John Walsh. Callahan, the son of NCMEC co-founders John and Revé Walsh, has been a tireless advocate for missing and exploited children since the tragic loss of his brother, Adam Walsh, in 1981. Together, the Walsh family has turned their personal tragedy into a mission to seek justice for victims and trauma survivors across America. Callahan's work in media and community advocacy, coupled with his appearances on prominent platforms such as Good Morning America and CNN, continues to drive meaningful action in the fight for child protection.
In this conversation, they also discuss Cal’s love for science, lo-fi hip hop, and of course, all things Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives! Callahan’s passion and life’s mission have inspired everyone fortunate enough to work with the Walsh family, whose steadfast dedication to justice and healing continues to make a profound and lasting impact on countless lives.
These organizations provide critical support for those in need and encourage you to reach out if you or someone you know requires assistance:
In this episode, Celene Beth sits down with Yoshi Telles, a field coordinator whose career spans some of the biggest projects in entertainment, including iconic game shows, Below Deck, and most recently, the Beyoncé Bowl, a massive, high-stakes production that required Yoshe’s unparalleled coordination and dedication.
As an integral member of the In Pursuit with John Walsh field team for Season 4, Yoshi's commitment and work ethic truly shine in intense, high-pressure environments, making him a standout on both large and small-scale productions alike.
They dive into the ups and downs of being in the field while chasing fugitives, exploring the challenges of managing logistics while maintaining focus on the trauma survivors at all times. Yoshi’s boundless enthusiasm and energy fuel every project he takes on. Whether it’s ensuring everything runs smoothly or inspiring his team, Yoshi’s drive and heart have made him a key player in the success of some of the entertainment industry’s most unforgettable moments!
In this episode, Celene Beth takes us on a journey that’s deeply personal and transformative. She shares how she grew up on the streets of Main Street in Park City as a Parkite, with Sundance shaping much of her life and career. A love letter to the festival that has been a part of her life for over three decades, Celene reflects on her time volunteering and working seasonally at Sundance for the past 10 festivals, where she witnessed firsthand the power of storytelling and the community it fosters.
Celene dives into her connection with films like On the Record and Promising Young Woman, highlighting their emotional impact and the importance of trauma-informed storytelling. She also talks about her collaboration with NASA+, where she introduced Sundance to science, storytelling, and asteroids, bringing together film, and the wonders of the universe in a unique way.
A key moment in the episode is Celene finally revealing how Ted Bundy became the center of her first directorial documentary, born out of the Sundance Film Festival. She opens up about how Bundy's horrific crimes affected the lives of so many, and how his "legacy" has been shaped by the media. She reflects on the lasting trauma caused by Bundy and the importance of focusing on the stories of those he victimized, rather than glorifying him and his crimes.
Throughout the episode, Celene celebrates filmmakers like Liz Garbus, Kim A. Snyder, and Isabel Castro, whose ethical approach to true crime has deeply influenced her own work. She emphasizes the need for safe sets, mental health protections, and responsible filmmaking in the true crime genre, and discusses how her journey is shaping a more empathetic way of storytelling.
Discover more about Creative Visions and the fundraising efforts for K*lling Theodore: https://creative-visions.networkforgood.com/projects/237708-k-lling-theodore-s-fundraiser
Listener discretion is advised as this episode discusses severe physical and mental abuse
In this powerful episode, Meg Richter shares a deeply personal chapter of her life, revealing her harrowing experiences in reform school, where she endured severe abuse and trauma. Despite the unimaginable hardships, Meg uses her story as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to overcome even the most daunting adversity.
As she opens up about her time in a cult and the trauma that followed, Meg also discusses the discovery of pop culture after leaving that world and how her perspective on life dramatically shifted. Now, as a mother of two, she reflects on what life is like today and how she’s found strength through it all.
Meg's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From surviving a cult and cancer to undergoing multiple surgeries, including having part of her skull removed, she’s a living example of resilience. As the founder of Meg's Law of Positivity, she turns her trauma into teaching, empowering others to embrace positivity and transformation, no matter the circumstances.
This episode is a raw and uplifting reminder that even in the face of extreme adversity, we can find the strength to heal, grow, and live fulfilled lives. Don't miss Meg's story of survival, strength, and the power of positivity.
https://www.instagram.com/megslawofpositivity/
In this episode, television producer and writer Jill Michelle Williams joins Celene Beth to discuss the ethical responsibilities of producers and creatives in the true crime genre. Jill, whose career spans broadcast, streaming, and cable networks, shares her experience creating content across various genres, including true crime, and reflects on how her career has been shaped by her dedication to ethical storytelling.
Jill opens up about how the case of Jeffrey Dahmer was her first true crime case that hit too close to home, particularly due to Rita Isbell’s powerful impact statement, which has stayed with her to this day. Together, Jill and Celene explore the deeper ethical duties involved in producing true crime content, including the importance of respecting the victims and their stories while balancing the commercial pressures of the industry.
Tune in to hear Jill’s insights on how authenticity, kindness, and thoughtfulness must guide the work of those telling real-life stories, especially when it comes to such sensitive subjects.
Please note, Jill offers development consulting services through her website: hollywoodconsultingstudio.com
This episode discusses drug addiction and robbery. While not explicit, listener discretion is advised.
In this episode, Celene Beth sits down with Louie Fojut, a recurring cast member on Love After Lockup, to discuss his inspiring journey of overcoming addiction, crime, and incarceration. Louie shares how his resilience has helped him turn his life around, and how he now works to inspire others who may be facing similar challenges. His story will also be featured in the upcoming limited series Love After Lockup: Crime Story on WeTV, premiering February 7.
As he speaks publicly to kids and teens in local communities, Louie shares the lessons he’s learned along the way, offering hope and guidance to those facing adversity. Louie opens up about his challenging path to sobriety and fitness, and how he recently achieved the remarkable feat of earning his real estate license despite his felony status. We also learn about Louie’s passion for good food and travel!
Louie’s story is a testament to the power of change, showing that no matter the obstacles, a better future is possible!
Resources for Addiction Support:
National Helpline for Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
Narcotics Anonymous (NA)Phone: 1-800-992-0401
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)Phone: 1-800-356-9996
In this episode of Off Script, Celene Beth welcomes back Lauren Skae to unpack the latest headlines and cultural moments in America. As a resident of LA, Lauren shares the powerful community response to the recent fires, where neighbors have come together to support one another through these difficult times.
The conversation moves to the whirlwind TikTok ban saga-how it quickly came and went- and the Inauguration, with news of Snoop Dogg and Nelly performing. Of course, no chat between Celene and Lauren would be complete without a side-eye to HouseinHabit's latest antics.
They also discuss the upcoming consent buttons on dating shows and the troubling news about Vanderpump Rules' James Kennedy being cited for domestic violence. To wrap things up, they explore the surprising connections between NASA+, Sundance, and Celene's own journey as the 41st Sundance Film Festival approaches.
With humor, sharp insights, and plenty of hot takes, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to laugh, rage, and stay informed on the biggest stories of the moment.
In this episode, Celene Beth and Grace McNally explore the complexities of documentary filmmaking, particularly when working with sensitive subjects. Grace, a Brooklyn-based director and producer known for her acclaimed work on Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey and Slay the Dragon, discusses the obstacles of filming during the COVID-19 pandemic and the unique challenges of building trust with trauma survivors- especially those who have been in a cult for their entire lives.
Grace and Celene talk about the importance of creating safe, respectful, and trauma-informed sets, sharing how these practices are vital in ensuring that both the subjects and the crew feel supported throughout the process.
And for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Grace shares a surprising spot where you can catch some waves just outside of Manhattan!