The rise and impact of "This is Criminal" podcast

When you hear the name Phoebe Judge, chances are the first thing that comes to mind is the iconic voice behind one of the best true-crime podcasts, "This...

When you hear the name Phoebe Judge, chances are the first thing that comes to mind is the iconic voice behind one of the best true-crime podcasts, "This is Criminal." It’s a podcast that has grown so popular that it’s almost synonymous with the word "podcast" for fans of the true-crime genre. Originating from North Carolina, "This is Criminal" has found a dedicated audience from Boston to Chicago and even as far away as Iceland. Now let's delve into how this podcast has had such a monumental impact, not just in America, but globally.

The origins of "This is Criminal" podcast

In 2014, Phoebe Judge, already known for her work with NPR, teamed up with co-creator Lauren Spohrer to launch "This is Criminal." From its early days, the podcast's home was Radiotopia, a well-known platform for innovative podcast content. However, recognizing the need for expansion and adapting to an ad-free model, the show eventually migrated to become part of the Vox Media Podcast Network. When Judge and Spohrer conceptualized the show, they were set on offering something more nuanced than the typical true-crime podcast.

The duo decided to focus on an eclectic range of subjects, centering their narratives on stories of people who have straddled the line between everyday life and criminal activities. This was a fresh take, diverging from the common focus on grisly crimes or sensational stories. It wasn't merely about recounting events; it was about examining the human elements of these often complex situations. This origin story speaks volumes about the podcast's vision and commitment to delivering depth and substance to its listeners.

What sets "This is Criminal" apart from other true-crime podcasts

Sure, you've got a ton of options when it comes to true-crime podcasts, including industry giants like "Serial" or even shows produced by the BBC. But "This is Criminal" carves its own niche in this crowded space. One of the first things you'll notice if you're a new listener is their comprehensive website, thisiscriminal.com. The site isn't just a placeholder; it's a treasure trove of episode transcripts, further readings, and listener engagement features.

This complements the wide array of topics covered in the podcast. While some shows focus solely on high-profile murder cases or disappearances, "This is Criminal" casts a wider net. They tackle themes as varied as complicated love stories with a dark twist to the peculiar obsessions of perfectionists. These unique thematic explorations are perhaps why the audience keeps expanding and eagerly awaiting new episodes.

The role of sound design and narration

You might wonder how sound design could play a pivotal role in a podcast. Trust me, once you listen to an episode of "This is Criminal" on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, you'll get it. Julienne Alexander, the sound designer, crafts each episode to be more than just a recorded conversation; it's a soundscape that accentuates the narrative. The sound effects aren't overdone but are subtly interwoven to enrich the atmosphere.

Now, pair that with Phoebe Judge's impeccable narration. Her voice isn't just reading out a script; it's telling you a story, guiding you through complex emotions and intricate plot twists. Her style is so captivating that she even has another venture, "Phoebe Reads a Mystery," which employs a similar narrative structure. The combined effect of this attention to sound and narration makes each episode an immersive experience, offering much more than what typical podcasts in the genre provide.

Audience reception and community building

When you think of a podcast with a rabid fan following, cities like Boston, New York, and Chicago often come to mind as hubs of cultural trends. But "This is Criminal" goes beyond just American cities to capture a global audience. For instance, take Episode 233: Iceland Noir; this episode showcases how the podcast transcends borders, reaching listeners far and wide. But it's not just through episodes that the community is built. Social media platforms are buzzing with fan theories, episode discussions, and testimonials about how the show has impacted individual lives.

The community extends to the e-commerce space too, with dedicated merch available on itunes.com/criminalshow. For those who are die-hard fans, there's even a members-only section offering exclusive content. This not only creates a unique space for listeners to engage more deeply with the show but also adds an extra layer of community for those who just can't get enough. In this way, "This is Criminal" has not only captivated audiences but also succeeded in building a robust community around it.

The influence on public discourse about crime and justice

The impact of "This is Criminal" on public dialogue around criminal justice is more than just momentary engagement; it's a steady, simmering conversation that challenges its audience to think deeply. The podcast often takes listeners through a journey starting from the grassroots of a crime, unraveling layers of systemic issues that lead to criminal activity.

Take, for instance, its nuanced exploration of money tree scams. Instead of merely presenting it as a criminal act, the show digs into the socio-economic forces that drive people into such desperate measures. Similarly, when tackling topics related to the African-American community, the show offers more than just a recounting of events. It presents critical viewpoints that invite listeners to confront their preconceived notions about race, policing, and justice in America.

This commitment to a holistic view makes "This is Criminal" akin to an arm of investigative journalism, even contributing to the academic discourse. Teachers, law enforcement officers, and social workers have cited the podcast as an educational resource, showcasing its profound impact not only in America but on a global scale. By creating a platform for underrepresented voices and stories, it often fills gaps that mainstream media may overlook, effectively becoming a significant player in the broader narrative around crime and justice.

Ethical considerations and controversies

Navigating the murky waters of true crime storytelling isn't without its pitfalls. The team behind "This is Criminal" faces a plethora of ethical dilemmas, most notably in the treatment of victims and representation of criminal activities. Some critics have raised questions about whether the show, in its quest for storytelling perfection, risks sensationalizing crime or exploiting the experiences of victims and their families. These are not idle critiques but active discussions in the podcast community, especially among members-only groups who get to delve deeper into the stories.

However, the creators of "This is Criminal" are acutely aware of these concerns and have developed a set of internal guidelines to address them. Interviews are conducted with extreme sensitivity, and every episode goes through multiple checks to ensure it does not cross ethical boundaries. By taking this responsible approach, the show manages to maintain its journalistic integrity, earning it a level of trust among listeners that is often hard to achieve in this genre.

How "This is Criminal" adapts to changing times and trends

In a world where trends are dictated by algorithms, "This is Criminal" has kept its essence while incorporating audience feedback. While initially hosted on Radiotopia, the show has adapted to become part of the Vox Media Podcast Network. This transition has enabled it to offer ad-free content and reach a broader audience through platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Spin-offs and collaborations

Beyond "This is Criminal," Phoebe Judge and her team have ventured into other arenas. The podcast "This is Love" and "Animal Instincts" are excellent examples of how the brand has diversified while maintaining its core identity. Collaborations with other entities like the FBI for certain episodes have added more depth to their offerings.

Future prospects and challenges

As the landscape of podcasting evolves, so does the competitive atmosphere. With the growing popularity of platforms like Spotify and New York becoming a hub for podcasting ventures, "This is Criminal" faces the challenge of keeping its content unique while being open to collaboration. However, with its consistent high-quality episodes and a dedicated fan following, the show is set to keep us on the edge of our seats for the foreseeable future. After all, the world loves a good story, and as long as there are stories to tell, "This is Criminal" will be there to narrate them.

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FAQs

Is "This is Criminal" associated with any other podcasts in the Atlantic network?

While "This is Criminal" is a part of the Vox Media Podcast Network and not directly associated with the Atlantic network, it does share a similar ethos of deep storytelling and investigative journalism that you might find in Atlantic podcasts. If you're a fan of the storytelling style of "This is Criminal," you might also enjoy some Atlantic network podcasts.

What are some of the "show more" features available on the "This is Criminal" website?

The "show more" features on the "This is Criminal" website typically allow the audience to dive deeper into the stories presented in the episodes. These can range from additional interviews, supplementary materials, or even behind-the-scenes content. While the term "show more" is not explicitly used on thisiscriminal.com, the website is designed to provide an in-depth experience, similar to a "show more" option.

Is "the other Phoebe Judge" related to any episodes as an accomplice in storytelling?

The phrase "other Phoebe Judge" seems to allude to the versatile roles Phoebe Judge plays in various other projects outside of the "This is Criminal" podcast. While she is not an "accomplice" in the traditional sense, her involvement in other podcasts and storytelling endeavors does lend a unique richness to her narration style in "This is Criminal." So, in a metaphorical sense, the "other Phoebe Judge" is an accomplice in making the podcast as compelling as it is.