Crime Junkie

If you love true crime, chances are you’ve probably heard the saying, “Be weird, be rude, stay alive.” It’s a catchy way of remembering to stay vigilant in your surroundings, and to report anything suspicious to police to stay safe and possibly save another person’s life. It’s also the signature line of Ashley Flowers’ true crime podcast Crime Junkie.

The podcast debuted in 2017 as an extension of Flowers’ local radio segment, “Murder Monday”. Flowers and her friend Britt Prawat combined their passion for advocacy and criminal cases into a weekly conversational-style podcast. The opening episode focused on Niqui McCown’s disappearance from a laundromat in Indiana. McCown’s case, marked by its unsettling nature and the emotional toll on her family, was presented with compelling storytelling that would become the hallmark of the podcast. Crime Junkie has since expanded its scope and team to cover even more cases, from high-profile crimes like the Las Cruces Bowling Alley Massacre and the murder of Laci Peterson to lesser-known stories that might otherwise remain in the shadows, like Elizabeth Salgado and Angela “Mischelle” Lawless, which has made the show a must- listen for true crime enthusiasts.

From the beginning, Flowers has been the driving force behind the research and storytelling of Crime Junkie. Her role involves digging deep into each case, meticulously gathering details, and crafting informative and engaging narratives. With a background working for a private investigator, Prawat complements Flowers with her relatable remarks and insightful questions. Prawat’s contributions make the podcast more accessible, and easier to understand and connect with. Together, they encourage people to speak up if they know anything, empowering listeners to take an active role in seeking justice by sharing tips, reporting suspicious activity, and engaging with online communities that advocate for victims.

While Crime Junkie quickly gained popularity and a devoted following over the years, it has also faced significant backlash regarding issues of sourcing and attribution. Critics have raised concerns about the lack of proper citation for sources and credit to news organizations, arguing that this undermines journalistic integrity. Several news sources, including the New York Times, revealed the podcast has also been accused of plagiarizing content to the extent that several episodes were removed from all platforms in response. Crime Junkie is not the first podcast to plagiarize, but it has since implemented stricter editorial practices and improved transparency to restore credibility. Even with the accusations, the podcast’s huge fan base has remained strong and has led to global live shows and meetups that reflect its broad impact and engagement.

So, if you are a true crime fan or just looking for something new, Crime Junkie has hundreds of episodes delving into chilling mysteries and heartfelt cases to keep you hooked for hours. 

Whether you are commuting, tackling your homework, or just looking to unwind, it’s the perfect companion for your next binge. Find Crime Junkie on Spotify, Apple Music, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music, and remember—be weird, be rude, stay alive.