Deadly Devotion

About Deadly Devotion

A true crime podcast that looks at relationships that turned deadly. We look at the psychological patterns in relationships, how it escalates over time, and the warning signs to look for.

Publisher

Ashley Nicole

Category

true crime

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

5 May 2026

Latest episode

16 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   16 Sept 2026

   14 - Tanisha Pughsley

   Thank you so much for your patience with this episode. Due to some unexpected health issues, this week's episode is arriving a little later than planned, and I truly appreciate you sticking with me. ❤️ Tanisha Pughsley—known to those who loved her as Tookie—was ambitious, accomplished, and building a life centered around service. From Chicago to Alabama, she followed her goals with determination, earning two degrees and eventually becoming a detective with the Montgomery Police Department. But behind the career she had worked so hard to build, something troubling was unfolding in her personal life. In this episode of Deadly Devotion, we follow Tanisha's story from the young woman her family and friends knew and loved to a relationship that began crossing boundaries and raising increasingly serious concerns. We'll examine the warning signs, the steps Tanisha took to protect herself, and the difficult questions her story raises about domestic violence, coercive control, and what happens when someone refuses to accept the word no. Most importantly, we'll remember Tanisha as more than a case or a headline. We'll remember Tookie. 🎙️ Deadly Devotion — Don't ignore the red flags before they turn deadly. Sources: Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals — Brandon Deshawn Webster v. State of Alabama (2025), via FindLaw (https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/al-court-of-criminal-appeals/117104826.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — This was our primary source for the detailed facts of the case, trial testimony, evidence, and appeal. Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals — Webster v. State, via Justia (https://law.justia.com/cases/alabama/court-of-appeals-criminal/2025/cr-2024-0078.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Full appellate opinion and downloadable court decision. WAKA Action 8 News — Brandon Webster convicted and sentenced (https://www.waka.com/2023/08/22/man-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-in-murder-of-montgomery-police-detective/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Covers the verdict, sentencing, Tanisha’s background, her mother Sharon, and the creation of Tookie’s Voice. WSFA — Ex-boyfriend convicted of killing Montgomery police officer (https://www.wsfa.com/2023/08/22/ex-boyfriend-convicted-killing-montgomery-police-officer/?outputType=amp&utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Local coverage of the trial, verdict, and convictions. WSFA — Original July 2020 report on Tanisha’s death and Brandon Webster’s arrest (https://www.wsfa.com/2020/07/06/montgomery-police-detective-shot-death-overnight/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Contemporary reporting from immediately after Tanisha’s death. WAKA Action 8 News — Original report on the investigation and charges (https://www.waka.com/2020/07/06/montgomery-man-charged-with-murder-of-off-duty-mpd-detective/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Contemporary reporting on the initial investigation and protective order. WSFA — Vigil held to honor Detective Tanisha Pughsley (https://www.wsfa.com/2020/07/11/vigil-held-honor-life-slain-mpd-detective/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Coverage focused on Tanisha’s life, colleagues, friends, and community. WSFA — Peace Garden dedicated to Tanisha Pughsley (https://www.wsfa.com/2023/10/28/new-peace-garden-dedicated-slain-mpd-officer-asu-alumna/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Covers Sharon Pughsley, Tanisha’s legacy, and domestic-violence awareness efforts. Alabama State University Athletics — Women’s Bowling Roster (https://bamastatesports.com/sports/womens-bowling/roster/2011-12?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Confirms Tanisha’s time as a student-athlete and member of Alabama State’s bowling team. Resources: National Domestic Violence Hotline — Get Help (https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Free, confidential support available 24/7 by phone, chat, or text. WomensLaw — Domestic Violence Safety Planning (https://www.womenslaw.org/safety-planning/domestic-violence-victims?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Safety-planning information for people living with abuse or preparing to leave. WomensLaw — Legal Information by State (https://www.womenslaw.org/laws?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Plain-language information on restraining orders, custody, court processes, stalking, and other legal issues.

2. 

   7 Aug 2026

   13- Beyond the Verdict: The Story of Francine Hughes

   In rural Michigan, a young woman dreamed of building a loving home, raising her children, and creating the kind of future so many couples imagine at the beginning of a marriage. Years later, her story would become one of the most influential domestic violence cases in American history. In this episode of Deadly Devotion, we look beyond the headlines to explore who Francine Hughes was before her name became known around the world. Together, we'll examine the relationship that changed her life, the courtroom testimony that challenged long-held beliefs about abuse, and the legacy that continues to shape conversations about trauma, justice, and compassion nearly fifty years later. This isn't simply the story of a trial. It's the story of a woman whose life helped change the way many people understand domestic violence. Because before there was a courtroom... There was a family. There was hope. And there was a life. Sources: • The Burning Bed by Faith McNulty (1980) • The Washington Post – Francine Hughes Wilson, whose "Burning Bed" became a TV film, dies at 69 https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/francine-hughes-wilson-whose-burning-bed-became-a-tv-film-dies-at-69/2017/03/31/a1799db8-161c-11e7-ada0-1489b735b3a3_story.html (https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/francine-hughes-wilson-whose-burning-bed-became-a-tv-film-dies-at-69/2017/03/31/a1799db8-161c-11e7-ada0-1489b735b3a3_story.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • Francine Hughes biography https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francine_Hughes (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francine_Hughes?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • National Domestic Violence Hotline https://www.thehotline.org (https://www.thehotline.org/) • National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) https://ncadv.org (https://ncadv.org/)

3. 

   23 Jul 2026

   12 - When Love Becomes Possession - Travis Alexander

   Episode 12: Travis Alexander | When Love Becomes Possession Before Travis Alexander became the center of one of America's most infamous murder trials, he was a son, a brother, a mentor, and a man known for his generosity, optimism, and unwavering faith. In this episode of Deadly Devotion, we look beyond the headlines surrounding Jodi Arias and instead focus on the life of Travis Alexander. Through careful research, we follow the evolution of their relationship, examine the warning signs that emerged over time, and walk alongside investigators as they pieced together one of the most compelling digital evidence cases in modern criminal history. More than a courtroom drama, this episode explores the difference between love and possession, the importance of healthy boundaries, and why every victim deserves to be remembered for the life they lived—not just the way it ended. If you enjoyed today's episode, please consider following Deadly Devotion, leaving a five-star review, and sharing this episode. Your support helps bring awareness to relationship violence, honors victims and their families, and allows these stories to continue reaching those who need to hear them. Sources • Maricopa County Attorney's Office – State of Arizona v. Jodi Arias (case information) (https://www.maricopacountyattorney.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • Arizona Judicial Branch – Court records and proceedings (https://www.azcourts.gov/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • ABC News – Coverage of the Travis Alexander murder investigation and Jodi Arias trial (https://abcnews.go.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • CBS News – Jodi Arias trial coverage and timeline (https://www.cbsnews.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • Court TV – Trial coverage, testimony, and courtroom archives (https://www.courttv.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • AP News – Reporting on the verdict and sentencing (https://apnews.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Resources If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional abuse, coercive control, stalking, or intimate partner violence, help is available. • National Domestic Violence Hotline: The Hotline (https://www.thehotline.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Call: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: START to 88788 • Stalking Prevention, Awareness, & Resource Center (SPARC): SPARC (https://www.stalkingawareness.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • One Love Foundation – Learn the warning signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships: One Love Foundation (https://www.joinonelove.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

4. 

   15 Jul 2026

   11- Gone, Never Forgotten - Evelyn Hernandez

   In May 2002, 24-year-old Evelyn Hernandez vanished from San Francisco while eight months pregnant. Her five-year-old son, Alex, disappeared with her. Evelyn wasn't just another headline. She was an immigrant from El Salvador, a devoted mother, a beloved sister, and a woman preparing to welcome her second son into the world. As investigators searched for answers, her story would eventually be overshadowed by another high-profile case that captivated the nation—leaving many people unaware that Evelyn's family was still desperately searching for justice. In this episode of Deadly Devotion, we carefully examine the evidence, the investigation, and the unanswered questions that remain more than two decades later. Most importantly, we remember Evelyn for who she was before she became a case file. Because every victim deserves to be remembered with dignity. If you have credible information regarding the homicide of Evelyn Hernandez or the disappearance of Alex Hernandez, please contact the San Francisco Police Department. Sources: • San Francisco Police Department – Cold Case: Evelyn Hernandez: San Francisco Police Department – Evelyn Hernandez Cold Case (https://www.sanfranciscopolice.org/stay-safe/ongoing-investigations/homicides-and-cold-cases/evelyn-hernandez?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • ABC News Primetime investigation: ABC News – Evelyn Hernandez Investigation (https://abcnews.go.com/Primetime/story?id=131949&page=1&utm_source=chatgpt.com) • SFGATE – What Happened to Evelyn Hernandez?: SFGATE – What Happened to Evelyn Hernandez? (https://www.sfgate.com/crime/article/what-happened-to-evelyn-hernandez-17130876.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com) • SFGATE archive reporting (2002): SFGATE Archive – Remains May Be S.F. Woman Who Vanished (https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Remains-may-be-S-F-woman-who-vanished-Remains-2789331.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com) If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. National Domestic Violence Hotline: The Hotline (https://www.thehotline.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Call: 800-799-7233 (SAFE) or text START to 88788.

5. 

   8 Jul 2026

   10 - A Marriage Unraveled - Betty Broderick

   In this episode of Deadly Devotion, we look beyond the headlines to explore the psychology behind one of the most infamous marriages in modern true crime. We examine the rise and fall of the Broderick family, the emotional toll of divorce, the dangers of losing your identity within a relationship, and why this case continues to divide public opinion more than three decades later. Betty Broderick's case remains one of America's most debated true crime stories. Was she a woman pushed beyond her breaking point after years of sacrifice, betrayal, and a bitter divorce? Or was she a calculated killer who allowed resentment to consume her? This isn't just a story about murder. It's a story about love, ambition, betrayal, resentment, and the choices we make when life doesn't unfold the way we imagined. Join me as we explore the warning signs, the relationship dynamics, and the lessons we can learn from A Marriage Unraveled. 🎧 Listener discretion is advised. This episode discusses domestic violence, homicide, and emotionally abusive relationships that may be difficult for some listeners. Research & Further Reading Bella Stumbo — Until the Twelfth of Never: The Deadly Divorce of Dan and Betty Broderick Los Angeles Times book review and overview (https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-08-08-bk-21491-story.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Los Angeles Times Archives — Chronology of the Betty Broderick Case Chronology of the Broderick Case (https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-12-11-me-258-story.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Los Angeles Times — The Real Story Behind Dirty John: The Betty Broderick Story Betty Broderick: The true story behind Dirty John (https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2020-06-02/betty-broderick-dirty-john-amanda-peet-christian-slater-true-story?utm_source=chatgpt.com) People Magazine — Betty Broderick case overview What Happened to Betty Broderick? (https://people.com/what-happened-to-betty-broderick-11971595?utm_source=chatgpt.com) People Magazine — The Broderick Children Today Where Are Betty Broderick's Children Now? (https://people.com/where-are-betty-broderick-children-now-11845033?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Dirty John: The Betty Broderick Story (TV dramatization starring Amanda Peet and Christian Slater) Background on the series and the real case (https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2020-06-02/betty-broderick-dirty-john-amanda-peet-christian-slater-true-story?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

6. 

   23 Jun 2026

   9 - A Mother's Legacy - The Cherica Adams Story

   Thank you for your patience while I navigated some unexpected travel challenges—this has been a long-awaited episode, and I'm so grateful to finally share it with you. In this episode of Deadly Devotion, we examine the heartbreaking case of Cherica Adams, a young mother-to-be whose life was forever changed by jealousy, control, and violence. What should have been a joyful new chapter became a tragedy that shocked the world and left an innocent child fighting for survival. Together, we'll explore the events leading up to Cherica's murder, the warning signs that often go unnoticed, and the lasting impact her story continues to have today. As always, our goal is not to sensationalize tragedy, but to honor victims, raise awareness, and learn from the patterns that can turn devotion into something deadly. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following, rating, and reviewing Deadly Devotion. Your support helps us continue sharing these important stories and keeping victims' memories alive. Sources & Further Reading Charlotte Observer – "Murder, Miracles and Rae Carruth: 25 Years Later" (2024) https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article295035034.html (https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article295035034.html) Charlotte Observer – "Rae Carruth Case: Timeline of One of Charlotte's Most Notorious Murders" (2024) https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article295297719.html (https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article295297719.html) ABC News – "Gunman Describes Cherica Adams' Killing" https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/story?id=100048&page=1 (https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/story?id=100048&page=1) ESPN – "Carruth Guilty of Conspiracy, Lesser Charges" https://www.espn.com/nfl/playoffs00/news/2001/0119/1026558.html (https://www.espn.com/nfl/playoffs00/news/2001/0119/1026558.html) Charlotte Magazine – "Cherica Adams Is Murdered" https://www.charlottemagazine.com/cherica-adams-is-murdered/ (https://www.charlottemagazine.com/cherica-adams-is-murdered/) For a more in-depth examination of the case and its lasting impact, listeners may also wish to explore The Charlotte Observer's award-winning "Carruth" podcast series. Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, homicide, and violence against a pregnant woman. Listener discretion is advised.

7. 

   2 Jun 2026

   8 - Faith Unforgotten - The Story of Faith Hedgepeth

   Faith Hedgepeth was just 22 years old when her life was brutally cut short in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. A proud member of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe, Faith was a college student with dreams, close friendships, and a future full of possibilities. But after a night out with friends in September 2012, she was found murdered in her apartment, leaving investigators, her family, and the public searching for answers. For nearly nine years, the case remained unsolved. A mysterious voicemail, conflicting timelines, public speculation, and countless theories kept Faith's name in the headlines. Yet behind the mystery was a grieving family determined to ensure their daughter would never be forgotten. In this episode of Deadly Devotion, we explore Faith's life, the investigation that captivated the nation, the DNA breakthrough that finally led to an arrest, and the legacy her family built in her honor. We also discuss the broader issue of violence against Indigenous women and why so many families continue fighting for visibility, justice, and answers. This episode contains discussions of violence, homicide, and sexual assault that may be disturbing to some listeners. Resources: National Indigenous Women's Resource Center https://www.niwrc.org (https://www.niwrc.org/) National Domestic Violence Hotline https://www.thehotline.org (https://www.thehotline.org/) Call or Text: 800-799-7233 StrongHearts Native Helpline https://strongheartshelpline.org (https://strongheartshelpline.org/) Call or Text: 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483) Sources for this Episode: Justice for Faith Official Website (https://justiceforfaith.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Faith’s family website dedicated to preserving her memory and sharing updates on the case. Killing of Faith Hedgepeth Overview (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Killing_of_Faith_Hedgepeth?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Timeline, investigation details, DNA evidence, arrest information, and court developments. ABC11 Coverage of the Arrest and Family Reactions (https://abc11.com/post/faith-hedgepeth-unc-hawani-saponi-tribe-indigenous-women/11027779/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Interviews with family members, tribal leaders, scholarship recipients, and discussion of Faith's legacy. The Daily Tar Heel Coverage Archive (https://www.dailytarheel.com/section/faith-hedgepeth-homicide?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Local reporting and timeline coverage surrounding the case. 💙 Faith's Smile Memorial Scholarship Faith's Smile Scholarship Information (https://justiceforfaith.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Created in honor of Faith Danielle Hedgepeth, this scholarship supports Native American young women pursuing higher education. 💙 Justice for Faith Justice for Faith Memorial Website (https://justiceforfaith.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) A website created by Faith's family to preserve her memory, share updates, and continue advocating for justice. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review Deadly Devotion. Your support helps us continue honoring victims, raising awareness, and telling stories that deserve to be remembered.

8. 

   26 May 2026

   7 - Stolen Light : The Selena Story

   On this episode of Deadly Devotion, we explore the heartbreaking story of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez — the beloved Queen of Tejano music whose talent, warmth, creativity, and infectious spirit changed music forever. Long before her life was tragically cut short, Selena was more than a rising star. She was a daughter, a wife, a sister, a designer, and a young woman with enormous dreams and a deep love for her fans. Her charisma lit up every room she entered, and her music continues to connect generations decades later. In this episode, we look beyond the headlines to explore Selena’s rise to fame, her close-knit family, the pressure of success, and the complicated relationship that would ultimately lead to tragedy. We also examine the warning signs, blurred boundaries, emotional dependence, and misplaced trust that quietly unfolded behind the scenes. This is not just a story about celebrity. It’s a story about loyalty, admiration, obsession, and the devastating consequences that can happen when trust falls into the wrong hands. Join me as we honor Selena’s life and legacy with compassion while unpacking one of the most shocking tragedies in music history. Sources & Resources: • Selena Official Website https://selenaqofficial.com (https://selenaqofficial.com/) • Biography.com – Selena Quintanilla Biography https://www.biography.com/musicians/selena-quintanilla (https://www.biography.com/musicians/selena-quintanilla) • Texas Monthly – Selena’s Legacy & Story https://www.texasmonthly.com/arts-entertainment/selena-texas-legacy/ (https://www.texasmonthly.com/arts-entertainment/selena-texas-legacy/) • Corpus Christi Caller-Times https://www.caller.com (https://www.caller.com/) • IMDb – Selena (1997 Film) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120094/ (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120094/) • Netflix – Selena: The Series https://www.netflix.com/title/81022733 (https://www.netflix.com/title/81022733) • Grammy – Selena Artist Profile https://www.grammy.com/artists/selena/6499 (https://www.grammy.com/artists/selena/6499)

9. 

   19 May 2026

   6 - The House of Make Believe - Gypsy Rose Blanchard

   In Episode 6 of Deadly Devotion, we explore the shocking and deeply disturbing case of Gypsy Rose Blanchard — a story that begins with a devoted mother caring for her chronically ill daughter and ends in murder. For years, the world believed Gypsy was suffering from leukemia, muscular dystrophy, seizures, and countless other medical conditions. Friends, neighbors, charities, and even doctors saw Dee Dee Blanchard as a selfless mother sacrificing everything to care for her sick child. But behind the walls of their pink Missouri home, a far more sinister reality was unfolding. As investigators would later uncover, many of Gypsy’s illnesses had been fabricated or exaggerated by the person meant to protect her most. In this episode, we examine medical child abuse, coercive control, infantilization, identity manipulation, trauma, and the devastating psychological effects of being raised inside a life built entirely on deception. Because sometimes the most dangerous prisons are not built with locks or chains… but with dependency, fear, and the illusion of love. Sources & Resources: https://www.hulu.com/series/the-act (https://www.hulu.com/series/the-act) https://people.com/crime/gypsy-rose-blanchard-mother-dee-dee-killing-everything-to-know/ (https://people.com/crime/gypsy-rose-blanchard-mother-dee-dee-killing-everything-to-know/) https://www.biography.com/crime/gypsy-rose-blanchard (https://www.biography.com/crime/gypsy-rose-blanchard) https://abcnews.go.com/US/gypsy-rose-blanchard-release-prison-life-now/story?id=106051979 (https://abcnews.go.com/US/gypsy-rose-blanchard-release-prison-life-now/story?id=106051979) https://www.investigationdiscovery.com/crimefeed/murder/what-is-munchausen-by-proxy-understanding-the-disorder-at-the-center-of-gypsy-rose-blanchards-case (https://www.investigationdiscovery.com/crimefeed/murder/what-is-munchausen-by-proxy-understanding-the-disorder-at-the-center-of-gypsy-rose-blanchards-case) https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/michelledean/dee-dee-wanted-her-daughter-to-be-sick-gypsy-wanted-her-mom (https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/michelledean/dee-dee-wanted-her-daughter-to-be-sick-gypsy-wanted-her-mom) https://people.com/gypsy-rose-blanchard-parole-ending-a-whole-new-world-is-about-to-open-up-exclusive-11682102 (https://people.com/gypsy-rose-blanchard-parole-ending-a-whole-new-world-is-about-to-open-up-exclusive-11682102) https://www.lifetime.tv/shows/gypsy-rose-life-after-lock-up (https://www.lifetime.tv/shows/gypsy-rose-life-after-lock-up)

10. 

    12 May 2026

    5 - Brainwashed or Broken - Patty Hearst

    In Episode 5 of Deadly Devotion, we explore one of the most controversial and psychologically haunting cases in American history — the story of Patty Hearst. In 1974, nineteen-year-old Patty Hearst, granddaughter of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, was kidnapped from her California apartment by a radical militant group known as the Symbionese Liberation Army. But what began as a horrifying abduction quickly transformed into something far more disturbing. Weeks after her kidnapping, Patty’s voice surfaced on audio recordings denouncing her family and pledging loyalty to the very people holding her captive. Then came the surveillance footage that shocked the nation: Patty Hearst holding a rifle during a bank robbery. Was she brainwashed? Manipulated? Terrified? Or had fear slowly rewritten her identity? In this episode, we dive into trauma bonding, psychological coercion, survival, media frenzy, and the unsettling question that still divides people decades later: At what point does survival begin to look like loyalty? Sources: FBI History – Patty Hearst Kidnapping https://www.fbi.gov/history/famous-cases/patty-hearst (https://www.fbi.gov/history/famous-cases/patty-hearst) Britannica – Patty Hearst https://www.britannica.com/biography/Patty-Hearst (https://www.britannica.com/biography/Patty-Hearst) History Channel – Patty Hearst Kidnapping https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/patty-hearst-kidnapped (https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/patty-hearst-kidnapped) Biography.com – Patty Hearst https://www.biography.com/crime/patty-hearst (https://www.biography.com/crime/patty-hearst) PBS – American Experience: Patty Hearst https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/hearst/ FBI Vault Documents https://vault.fbi.gov/patty-hearst Smithsonian Magazine – Patty Hearst and Stockholm Syndrome Discussions https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/patty-hearst-trial-stockholm-syndrome-180972387/ The New York Times Archives (Patty Hearst Coverage) https://www.nytimes.com/topic/person/patricia-hearst

11. 

    10 May 2026

    4 - Breaking Point - Kiranjit Ahluwalia

    In Episode 4 of Deadly Devotion, we examine the landmark case of Kiranjit Ahluwalia — a woman whose story would ultimately reshape conversations around domestic abuse, trauma, and the legal system in the United Kingdom. After moving from India to England through an arranged marriage, Kiranjit found herself navigating cultural expectations, isolation, motherhood, and a relationship that was becoming increasingly difficult behind closed doors. What followed became one of the most widely discussed domestic violence cases in British legal history. In this episode, we explore the realities of coercive control, the hidden psychological impact of long-term abuse, and the unique pressures many immigrant and minority women face when trying to survive abusive relationships. We also look at how one woman’s case challenged long-standing legal assumptions and sparked broader conversations about fear, endurance, and what society often fails to recognize until it’s too late. This episode contains discussions of domestic violence and abuse. Because sometimes survival doesn’t look the way people expect it to. Primary and supporting sources include: BBC News (https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-47724697?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Background on Kiranjit Ahluwalia’s case, abuse history, legal impact, and public significance Justice for Women (https://www.justiceforwomen.org.uk/kiranjit-ahluwalia?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Legal history of the appeal, advocacy surrounding the case, and analysis of the legal breakthrough involving domestic abuse survivors JSTOR – Academic Analysis of the Ahluwalia Case (https://www.jstor.org/stable/24510844?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Scholarly discussion of provocation, domestic violence, race, gender, and legal reform connected to the case Southall Black Sisters (https://southallblacksisters.org.uk/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Historical context on advocacy for minority women experiencing domestic abuse and the organization’s role in raising awareness around the case The Guardian (https://www.theguardian.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Historical reporting and commentary on domestic violence law reform and Kiranjit Ahluwalia’s case The Independent (https://www.independent.co.uk/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Reporting on the appeal and broader cultural significance of the case Wikipedia – Kiranjit Ahluwalia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiranjit_Ahluwalia?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Supplemental timeline verification, references to legal proceedings, memoir publication, and film adaptation Circle of Light by Kiranjit Ahluwalia and Rahila Gupta — Memoir detailing Kiranjit’s life, abuse, imprisonment, and eventual release

12. 

    8 May 2026

    3 - The Fall - The Story of Susan Sills

    In Episode 3 of Deadly Devotion, we explore the mysterious death of Susan Sills — a successful businesswoman, mother of twins, and co-founder of a Southern California fertility clinic whose death was initially believed to be a tragic accident. When Susan was found at the bottom of a staircase inside her San Clemente home in 2016, her husband, fertility doctor Eric Scott Sills, told investigators she had fallen during the night while suffering from a migraine. At first, the explanation seemed possible. But as investigators looked closer, troubling questions began to emerge. Blood evidence found throughout the home… injuries that raised forensic concerns… a marriage reportedly filled with growing tension behind closed doors… and a scene prosecutors later argued had been carefully staged. In this episode, we examine the investigation, the courtroom battle between accident and homicide, the emotional toll on Susan’s children and family, and the hidden dynamics that can exist inside relationships that appear successful from the outside. We also discuss the realities of domestic violence, coercive control, and why leaving unhealthy relationships is often far more complicated than people realize. Most importantly, we remember Susan Sills for who she was beyond the headlines — a mother, a woman with ambition and intelligence, and someone deeply loved by the people closest to her. Because at the center of every case… is a life that mattered. Sources for Episode 3 — The Story of Susan Sills NBC News www.nbcnews.com Los Angeles Times — Coverage of the Susan Sills murder trial and conviction www.latimes.com CBS News / 48 Hours — Did the dogs play a role or was the scene staged to cover a murder? www.cbsnews.com www.paramountpressexpress.com/cbs-news-and-stations/shows/48-hours/releases/?view=109829-the-wife-of-a-fertility-doctor-is-found-dead-did-her-dogs-play-a-role-or-was-the-scene-staged-to-cover-a-murder (http://www.paramountpressexpress.com/cbs-news-and-stations/shows/48-hours/releases/?view=109829-the-wife-of-a-fertility-doctor-is-found-dead-did-her-dogs-play-a-role-or-was-the-scene-staged-to-cover-a-murder) Fox News — Reporting on the conviction of fertility doctor Eric Scott Sills www.foxnews.com CrimeOnline — Coverage of the investigation, arrest, and sentencing www.crimeonline.com Court records and publicly available trial reporting related to the conviction of Eric Scott Sills in Orange County, California Additional background reporting and timeline verification from: www.people.com (http://www.people.com/) www.oxygen.com www.abcnews.go.com If you or someone you know may be experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7. Call: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text “START” to 88788 Website: The Hotline (https://www.thehotline.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) You are not alone, and support is available whenever you’re ready.

13. 

    6 May 2026

    2 - The Illusion of Perfect - Shanann Watts

    In this episode of Deadly Devotion, we tell the story of Shanann Watts—a 34-year-old mother, wife, and woman who lived her life with energy, determination, and love for her family. Shanann was someone who showed up fully. For her work, her home, and especially for her children. From the outside, her life reflected everything many people hope for—a growing family, a beautiful home, and a future that seemed full of possibility. But as this episode explores, what we see on the surface doesn’t always tell the full story. Through a careful and respectful lens, we look at the dynamics that can quietly develop within a relationship—where emotional distance, unspoken tension, and shifting connection can go unnoticed. This episode focuses on who Shanann was, the life she was building, and the importance of paying attention to what we feel… even when everything appears to be okay. Because sometimes the most important truths… are the ones we don’t immediately see. This episode was researched using publicly available reporting, court records, and verified case coverage, including: This episode was researched using publicly available reporting, investigative records, and verified coverage of the case of Shanann Watts and her family. People – Timeline of events, background on Shanann and her family, and details surrounding the investigation and aftermath ABC News – Reporting on the initial disappearance, statements from friends including Nickole Atkinson, and early police response CBS News – Coverage of the investigation, confession details, and legal proceedings The Denver Post – Local reporting on the case, community impact, and court updates The New York Times – National coverage and broader context surrounding the case FBI – Official case documents, interview summaries, and investigative timeline Court records and sentencing statements related to the conviction of Chris Watts Publicly available interviews and statements from family and friends for contextual understanding

14. 

    5 May 2026

    1 -The Last Red Flag - Ellie Gould

    In this first episode of Deadly Devotion, we begin with a story that invites us to look closer at what can happen behind the surface of a seemingly ordinary relationship. This episode explores the early stages of a teenage relationship that appeared familiar on the outside, but carried subtle emotional dynamics that would later become central to understanding what unfolded. Rather than focusing on shock or sensational details, this story takes a closer look at the human side—who she was, the world she lived in, and the quiet warning signs that are often easy to miss when emotions are involved. Through careful reflection, we begin to unpack patterns of connection, attachment, and emotional intensity that can sometimes go unrecognized until it’s too late. This episode is about awareness, understanding, and honoring a life that mattered. Because sometimes the most important stories are the ones that ask us to pay closer attention. Sources for this episode: The Guardian – Coverage of the case and court proceedings BBC News – Reporting on the murder, sentencing, and family statements Sky News – Sentencing details and appeal coverage ITV News – Ellie’s Law and family advocacy efforts The Times (UK) – Interviews with Ellie’s parents and ongoing concerns about release Public court records and sentencing remarks General case summary sources (e.g., Wikipedia for timeline cross-reference only)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings