Jeff tells the incredible survival story of Jan Baalsrud and the courageous efforts of the Norwegian resistance during World War II.

Visit us on Linktree [https://linktr.ee/jeffandsamshow] for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

Sources

 * Patrick McCarthy, The WWII Survival Story of Jan Baalsrud (Recoil Off Grid)
   https://www.offgridweb.com/survival/the-wwii-survival-story-of-jan-baalsrud/
 * Preikestolen365
   https://preikestolen365.com [https://preikestolen365.com/]
 * Norwegian Civil Resistance of the Nazi Occupation, 1940–1945
   https://gns.wisc.edu/2025/08/27/norwegian-civil-resistance-of-the-nazi-occupation-1940-1945-2/
 * Sound vs. Fjord: What's the Difference?
   https://www.aurora-expeditions.com/blog/sound-vs-fjord-whats-the-difference
 * Jan Baalsrud Is the Man That Never Gave Up
   https://nordnorge.com/en/artikkel/jan-balsrud-is-the-man-that-never-gave-up/
 * Wikipedia – Sámi People
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S%C3%A1mi_people
 * ExplorersWeb – Great Survival Stories: Jan Baalsrud Evades Nazi Dragnet
   https://explorersweb.com/great-survival-stories-jan-baalsrud-evades-nazi-dragnet/
 * Wikipedia – Jan Baalsrud
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Baalsrud
 * Mayo Clinic – Gangrene: Symptoms and Causes
   https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gangrene/symptoms-causes/syc-20352567
 * MyHeritage – Jan Baalsrud
   https://www.myheritage.com/names/jan_baalsrud
 * Bivrost – A Tale of Courage and Resilience: The Escape of Jan Baalsrud
   https://www.bivrost.com/a-tale-of-courage-and-resilience-the-escape-of-jan-baalsrud/

105 – Jan Baalsrud and the Norwegian Resistance

Jeff tells the tragic and impactful story of Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old college student whose murder in 1998 became a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States.

Matthew was targeted, brutally assaulted, and left for dead near Laramie because of who he was. His death shocked the nation and sparked conversations about hate crimes, discrimination, and the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals across America. The case ultimately helped inspire stronger hate crime legislation and remains a powerful reminder of the consequences of prejudice and intolerance.

This episode explores Matthew's life, the events surrounding his murder, and the lasting legacy carried on by his family and the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

If you or someone you know is an LGBTQ+ young person who needs support, consider reaching out to the The Trevor Project. Trained counselors are available 24/7 by calling 1-866-488-7386 or by visiting their website for additional support resources.

Visit us on Linktree [https://linktr.ee/thejeffandsamshow] for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

Sources

 * Our Story – Matthew Shepard Foundation
   https://www.matthewshepard.org/our-story/
 * Pushing Forward the Legacy of Matthew Shepard
   https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsplace1/p/pushing-forward-the-legacy-of-matthew-677
 * NPR – Matthew Shepard Laid To Rest, 20 Years After His Death
   https://www.npr.org/2018/10/26/660969035/matthew-shepard-laid-to-rest-20-years-after-his-death
 * LGBTQ+ Bar Association – LGBTQ+ "Panic" Defense
   https://lgbtqbar.org/programs/advocacy/gay-trans-panic-defense/
 * YouTube – MATTHEW SHEPARD: THE DEATH THAT CHANGED AMERICA | MIDWEEK MYSTERY
   https://youtu.be/3m0S5xkM4fM
 * RedHanded Podcast – Episode 202: The Haunting Murder of Matthew Shepard
   https://redhandedpodcast.com [https://redhandedpodcast.com/]
 * Homophobia in the Heartland (PDF)

104 – Matthew Shepard

Sam shares the haunting story of the Texas Killing Fields, a stretch of land between Houston and Galveston tied to decades of disappearances and murders of young women.

Sam also dives into the lingering fear, failures in investigations, and the devastating human toll left behind by these crimes. This is a story about victims too often forgotten—and the relentless pursuit of justice decades later.

Visit us on Linktree for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

Sources

 * Crime + Investigation – The Murder of Krystal Jean Baker
   https://www.crimeandinvestigation.co.uk/articles/murder-krystal-jean-baker
 * Galveston Daily News – Smith Guilty in Murder of Krystal Jean Baker
   https://www.galvnews.com/news/smith-guilty-in-murder-of-krystal-jean-baker/article_5275f6ce-7305-56d1-9191-ccc83cd42de3.html
 * Rosewood, Jack. The True Crime Books Collection
 * FBI – Seeking Information in Unsolved Killing Fields Murders
   https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/seeking-information-in-unsolved-killing-fields-murders-091819
 * The Guardian – Laura Miller and the Texas Killing Fields
   https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/may/12/laura-miller-texas-killing-fields
 * FOX 26 Houston – Texas Killing Fields Suspect Facing New Charges
   https://www.fox26houston.com/news/texas-killing-fields-suspect-facing-new-charges
 * Criminology Podcast – The Texas Killing Fields Part 1
 * ABC13 – Laura Smither’s Disappearance
   https://abc13.com/post/23-years-ago-today-laura-smithers-disappearance/1272189/
 * ABC13 – William Reece Court Appearance
   https://abc13.com/post/william-reece-guilty-plea-court-appearance-texas-serial-killer/12003895/

103 – Killing Fields

Jeff tells the unbelievable true story of Colton Harris-Moore, better known as the “Barefoot Bandit.”

As a teenager, Harris-Moore became one of the most infamous fugitives in modern American history after a string of burglaries, thefts, and daring escapes across multiple states. Known for committing crimes barefoot and leaving footprints behind, he captured national attention with his ability to evade authorities while stealing cars, boats, and even airplanes—despite having little to no formal training.

What began as local break-ins spiraled into an international manhunt that ended in the Bahamas after years on the run. His story became a strange mix of true crime, media fascination, and internet folklore.

Spoiler Alert: This episode contains spoilers for the Netflix documentary Should I Marry a Murderer.

Visit us on Linktree [https://linktr.ee/thejeffandsamshow] for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

Sources

 * Wikipedia – Colton Harris-Moore
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colton_Harris_Moore
 * Tuko – What Happened to Colton Harris-Moore After Release?
   https://www.tuko.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/618703-what-happened-colton-harris-moore-release/
 * HistoryLink – True Crime: The Barefoot Bandit
   https://historylink.org/File/10397

102 – Colton Harris-Moore: The Barefoot Bandit

Sam shares the chilling story of H. H. Holmes, one of America’s earliest and most infamous serial killers.

Operating during the late 1800s in Chicago, Holmes became notorious during the time of the 1893 World’s Fair. Behind his charming demeanor and successful business ventures was a dark and calculated killer whose crimes would become the stuff of legend.

Holmes is most remembered for his so-called “Murder Castle,” a building allegedly designed with hidden rooms, secret passages, and deadly traps. While some details surrounding the case have become exaggerated over time, the horrifying reality of his fraud, manipulation, and murders remains deeply disturbing.

This episode explores the myth, the man, and the terrifying legacy Holmes left behind in turn-of-the-century America.

Visit us on Linktree for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

Sources

 * Encyclopaedia Britannica – H.H. Holmes
   https://www.britannica.com/biography/H-H-Holmes
 * Library of Congress – Chronicling America: H.H. Holmes
   https://guides.loc.gov/chronicling-america-h-h-holmes
 * EBSCO Research Starter – H.H. Holmes
   https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/h-h-holmes
 * Forensic Scholars Today – Academic article on H.H. Holmes
   https://digitalcommons.csp.edu/forensic_scholars_today/vol1/iss2/4/
 * Larson, Erik. The Devil in the White City
 * Schechter, Harold. Depraved – The Definitive True Story of H.H. Holmes, Whose Grotesque Crimes Shattered Turn-of-the-Century Chicago

101 – Holmes

Jeff covers the story of the Kent State shootings, a pivotal and tragic moment in American history that took place on May 4, 1970.

During a period of intense national unrest over the Vietnam War, students at Kent State University gathered to protest the expansion of the conflict into Cambodia. What began as a demonstration escalated into chaos when members of the Ohio National Guard opened fire on unarmed students.

In just 13 seconds, four students were killed and nine others were wounded. The event shocked the nation, ignited further protests across college campuses, and became a defining moment in the conversation around war, civil rights, and the role of government force against its own citizens.

This episode explores not only what happened that day, but the lasting impact it left on American society.

Visit us on Linktree [https://linktr.ee/thejeffandsamshow] for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

Sources

 * Kent State University Libraries – May 4 Memorial Collection
   https://www.library.kent.edu/special-collections-and-archives/may-4-memorial-kent-state-university
 * Kent State Today – Students Guiding History
   https://www.kent.edu/today/news/students-guiding-history-kent-state
 * Wikipedia – Kent State Shootings
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kent_State_shootings
 * Kent State University – May 4 Historical Accuracy
   https://www.kent.edu/may-4-historical-accuracy
 * History.com – Nixon’s Response to Kent State
   https://www.history.com/articles/richard-nixon-kent-state-shootings-response
 * History.com – Kent State Shooting Overview
   https://www.history.com/articles/kent-state-shooting
 * Darkest Hours: The Kent State Shootings (Podcast)
   https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/darkest-hours-the-kent-state-shootings/id1638918169?i=1000749601765

99 – The Kent State Shootings

Jeff tells the incredible true story of Apollo 13, the near-disastrous NASA mission that became one of the greatest survival stories in space exploration history.

What was meant to be a routine lunar mission quickly turned into a life-or-death crisis when an onboard explosion crippled the spacecraft. Astronauts Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, and Jack Swigert were left stranded in space, relying on ingenuity, teamwork, and ground support to make it home alive. Jeff also connects the lessons learned from Apollo 13 to the future of space exploration, including Artemis II, NASA’s upcoming mission aimed at returning humans to the Moon. 

Visit us on Linktree [https://linktr.ee/thejeffandsamshow] for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

Sources

 * NASA – Apollo 13 Review Board Report (50 Years Later)
   https://www.nasa.gov/history/50-years-ago-apollo-13-review-board-report/
 * Wikipedia – Apollo 13
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apollo_13
 * YouTube – Apollo 13 overview
   https://youtu.be/69LDSL-9--g?si=-6O0okO2ecYx9uXp
 * Wikipedia – Katherine Johnson
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katherine_Johnson
 * Wikipedia – Fred Haise
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Haise
 * Wikipedia – Jim Lovell
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Lovell
 * Wikipedia – Jack Swigert
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Swigert
 * Wikipedia – Ken Mattingly
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ken_Mattingly
 * NASA – Apollo 13 Mission Overview
   https://www.nasa.gov/mission/apollo-13/
 * Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – Apollo 13 Story
   https://airandspace.si.edu/explore/stories/apollo-missions/apollo-13
 * NASA – Katherine Johnson
   https://www.nasa.gov/katherine-johnson/

98 – Apollo 13

This week is a special one.

Jeff and Sam step away from the usual format to share stories from their unforgettable trip to Egypt. From standing in awe of the ancient Great Pyramid of Giza to navigating the energy of bustling streets and historic sites, this episode is packed with personal moments, unexpected experiences, and plenty of laughs along the way.

It’s a mix of wonder, chaos, history, and perspective -- told the only way Jeff and Sam can tell it.

No scripts. No research. Just stories.

Visit us on Linktree [https://linktr.ee/thejeffandsamshow] for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

97 – Egypt: Stories from the Trip

This week Jeff and Sam share some stories from their trip to Egypt. From the pyramids to Karnak Temple.  Enjoy

100 - Our Trip to Egypt

Sam shares the chilling story of Ted Bundy, one of the most infamous serial killers in American history.

Operating during the 1970s, Bundy was responsible for the abduction and murder of numerous young women across multiple states. Known for his intelligence, charm, and ability to blend in, he used manipulation and deception to gain the trust of his victims—making his crimes all the more disturbing.

This episode explores not only the timeline of Bundy’s murders, but also the psychology behind them. Drawing from criminal analysis and mental health research, Sam dives into how Bundy’s behavior challenged assumptions about what a killer “looks like,” and how investigators—including those who would later pursue other serial killers—learned from his case.

From courtroom theatrics to shocking confessions, Bundy’s story remains one of the most studied and haunting in true crime history.

Visit us on Linktree [https://linktr.ee/thejeffandsamshow] for the collection of links, Instagram, or email us at jeffandsamshow@gmail.com.

Sources

 * Seattle Times – Obituary of Bob Keppel
   https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/obituaries/bob-keppel-the-cop-who-spent-his-life-chasing-serial-killers-including-ted-bundy-dies-at-76/
 * HistoryLink.org
   https://historylink.org/File/23480
 * Wikipedia – Ted Bundy
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ted_Bundy
 * The Last Podcast on the Left – Episodes 99 & 100 (Bundy Parts 1 & 2)
 * University of Kentucky – Psychology Research on Ted Bundy
   https://psychology.as.uky.edu/psychology-researcher-unravels-serial-killer-ted-bundys-mental-health
 * Encyclopaedia Britannica – Ted Bundy
   https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ted-Bundy
 * Crime Museum – Ted Bundy
   https://www.crimemuseum.org/crime-library/serial-killers/ted-bundy/
 * EBSCO Research Starter – Ted Bundy
   https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/ted-bundy
 * Florida Sheriffs Association – Chi Omega Murders
   https://flsheriffs.org/blog/entry/remembering-ted-bundy-and-the-chi-omega-murders/
 * All That’s Interesting – Ted Bundy
   https://allthatsinteresting.com/ted-bundy
 * Biography.com – Ted Bundy and the Green River Killer Investigation
   https://www.biography.com/crime/a65603336/ted-bundy-green-river-killer-investigation
 * Netflix – Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes

96 – Ted Bundy

A true crime, comedy and historical gem podcast. Just a conversation between two friends telling each other stories that we find interesting. 

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The Jeff and Sam Show