In this powerful episode of Pod Candy, Stacey and Dori dive into Surviving Ohio State, the documentary exposing one of the largest sexual abuse scandals in U.S. history. They discuss the decades of abuse committed by Dr. Richard Strauss, the silence of Ohio State University, and the devastating toll on more than 300 male athletes whose voices went unheard for far too long.

Joined by Dr. John Mayer, the conversation unpacks the systemic failures that protected power over people, the stigma male survivors face, and the long shadows abuse casts over a life. From whistleblowers and cover-ups to the lasting trauma carried by survivors, this episode asks hard questions about accountability, justice, and the courage it takes to speak the truth.

Source Documentary: Surviving Ohio State on HBO Max.

If you’re a survivor or supporting one, resources are linked in the show notes. You are not alone.

This week on PodCandy, Stacey and Dori dive into the disturbing case of Keith Hunter Jespersen—infamously known as the Happy Face Killer. A seemingly average long-haul trucker turned serial murderer, Jespersen left a trail of victims across the country while signing his confessions with a chilling smiley face.

Dr. John helps to dissect Jespersen’s psychology, exploring his need for control, lack of remorse, and what might have triggered his violent outbursts. They discuss the challenges of catching a killer who operated in plain sight, the tragic misidentification of suspects, and the devastating impact on victims’ families—including Jespersen’s own daughter.

As always, Stacey and Dori bring their signature mix of dark curiosity and unexpected humor, asking the big questions: What makes someone snap? Why do some killers crave attention, while others lurk in the shadows? And is it ever okay to say a serial killer was… kind of cute?

Source Documentary: "The Happy Face Killer: Mind of a Monster" on Discovery+ via Prime Video.

In this powerful and disturbing episode, Stacey, Dori, and Dr. John take a deep dive into Shiny Happy People, the chilling docuseries exposing the Duggar family and their ties to the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP), a fundamentalist Christian organization led by the controversial Bill Gothard. What lies beneath the surface of big smiles and modesty? Abuse, control, and a dangerous culture of silence.

The hosts dissect the teachings and tactics of IBLP, including blanket training, purity culture, and the cult-like authoritarian system that robbed countless women and children of agency and safety. With raw honesty and expert insight, they explore how this toxic ideology went mainstream—fueled by TLC’s reality TV empire—and how survivors are now bravely breaking their silence.