Once Upon A Crime

Step into the darker side of history with Once Upon A Crime, a true-crime podcast that delves deep into some of the world’s most gripping cases. Hosted by an expert storyteller, Esther Ludlow, each episode unravels the mysteries behind notorious crimes, exploring the lives of victims and perpetrators and the intricate details of the investigations that followed. With carefully researched narratives, thematic series, and thoughtful insights, Once Upon A Crime offers listeners a captivating blend of suspense, history, and human psychology. Whether you're a seasoned true-crime fan or just curious about the stories that shaped headlines, Once Upon A Crime promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.

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Feb. 23, 2026

Ted Bundy for the Defense - Part Three: Unhinged

Show Notes

After escaping from a Colorado jail, Ted Bundy fled to Florida — and unraveled.

In this episode, we follow Bundy’s path to Tallahassee, the brutal Chi Omega sorority house murders, the attack on Cheryl Thomas, the abduction of 12-year-old Kimberly Leach, and Bundy’s eventual arrest in Pensacola after 46 days on the run.

Gone is the methodical charmer of the Pacific Northwest. In his place: a reckless, frenzied killer who has lost control.

About This Series:

Ted Bundy for the Defense examines Ted Bundy’s criminal cases through the lens of his courtroom behavior and his insistence on controlling his own fate. This series separates myth from fact, focusing on documented evidence, trial records, and survivor testimony.

Sources:

The Bundy Murders: A Comprehensive History, Kevin M. Sullivan, McFarland and Company, 2020 (Second Edition).

Murderland: Crime and Bloodlust in the Time of Serial Killers, Caroline Fraser, Penguin Press, 2025.

The Devil’s Defender, John Henry Browne, Chicago Review Press, 2016.

Sponsors:

Completing the Puzzle: Go to CompletingthePuzzle.com and use code OUAC for $10 off your first puzzle subscription box or gift card.

Weight Loss by Hers: Visit ForHers.com/ONCE to get a personalized, affordable plan to reach your goals.

Talkiatry: Head to talkiatry.com/once and complete the short assessment to get matched with an in-network psychiatrist in minutes.

Events & Appearances:

Meet Esther and Lorena in person at:

Beyond the Crime Convention – Albuquerque, NM | April 11–12 - beyondcrimeconvention.com

CrimeCon – Las Vegas, NV | May 29–31 - crimecon.com