This episode reviews the literature, photographic finds and other happenings that made 2008 an exciting year in Ripperology. Listen in as Howard Brown from www.jtrforums.com, Mike Covell, Ben Holme and Gareth Williams join Jonathan Menges for this special 'Year in Review' episode of the Jack the Ripper podcast.

Listen to this podcast »

Rippercast welcomes to the podcast Trevor Marriott, author of the books Jack the Ripper- The 21st Century Investigation and The Evil Within- The World's Worst Serial Kilers. Listen in as we discuss with Mr. Marriott the possibility that the Ripper was a merchant seaman, and he provides details about his suspect for the Whitechapel Murders, Carl Feigenbaum. We also discuss with Trevor some of the more controversial aspects of his theories that claim to correct misconceptions that have surround the case.

Listen to this podcast »

This Episode of Rippercast welcomes back author and researcher Andy Spallek to discuss Ripper suspect Montague John Druitt. Mr. Spallek details his trip to England where he was able to search the archives of Winchester College, uncovering new photographs and information on Monty's younger years as a student at Winchester. We also discuss Monty's fellow student debator who later helped found the People's Palace in the East End. With Ally Ryder, Robert McLaughlin and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

This episode of Rippercast is a discussion about the man who was said to have witnessed Mary Jane Kelly a short time before her death in the company of a well-dressed Jewish man. George Hutchinson is a controversial figure in the events surrounding the murder of Mary Kelly. Some believe this man, who provided the police a detailed description of the last man seen with Kelly, was himself 'Jack the Ripper'. With Ben Holme, Gareth Williams, Chris Scott, Howard Brown, Robert McLaughlin, Ally Ryder and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

Episode 33 is the second of a two part series examining the life and death of Mary Jane Kelly. Part 2 focuses on the myths and legends surrounding her life and murder. Simon Wood joins the podcast to discuss such topics as Mary Kelly's survival, Mary Kelly's pregnancy, the missing key and her missing heart. Also featuring Paul Begg, Robert McLaughlin, Chris Scott, John Bennett, Ben Holme, Gareth Williams and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

This episode of Rippercast commemorates the 120th anniversary of the death of Mary Jane Kelly. Part one of a two part podcast. Listen in as Paul Begg, Chris Scott, Robert McLaughlin, Gareth Williams and Ben Holme join Jonathan Menges in a discussion of this most famous, and most elusive, of 'Jack the Ripper's' victims. Topics include researching Mary Jane Kelly in the census records in both England and Wales, and scrutinizing the biography of Mary Kelly as it was told by Joseph Barnett and others.

Listen to this podcast »

Author, researcher and tour guide Philip Hutchinson joins the show to discuss his acquisition of the first photograph to surface of Dutfields Yard, Berner Street, Whitechapel. The scene of the 30 Sept. murder of Elizabeth Stride. Three of the many individuals who consulted Mr. Hutchinson on the identification of the photograph- Robert Clack, John Bennett and Robert McLaughlin, also appear to talk about the purchase, verification and relevance of this photo, as well as the mystery behind who took the picture of what is the final crime scene photograph from the Ripper murders to emerge. Also featuring Chris Scott, Mike Covell, Ally Ryder and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

This episode is a discussion of the obscure message left in chalk at the Wentworth Model Dwellings, Goulston Street, near a piece of Catherine Eddowes' blood soaked apron. What is the meaning of this message? Which is the most reliable version of the phrase and its spelling? Was it really chalked by 'Jack the Ripper' on his flight from Mitre Square? With Paul Begg, Howard Brown, Chris Scott, Gareth Williams, Robert McLaughlin, Ally Ryder and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

This episode tackles the events that occurred on the night of 29 September, 1888. The "double event", the murder of Elizabeth Stride and Catherine Eddowes, holds a legendary place in Ripper lore. But were they really victims of the same killer? Listen in as Paul Begg, Gareth Williams, Chris Scott, and Ally Ryder join host Jonathan Menges to discuss the 'Double Event' and decide for yourself if both of these women were felled by the blade of 'Jack the Ripper'.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode is a discussion of contemporary police suspect 'Kosminski;. Listen in as special guest researcher and author Rob House joins the podcast for a detailed look into the Polish Jew's candidacy for the title of Jack the Ripper and the events of Aaron Kosminski's life. Also featuring Paul Begg, Chris Scott, Robert McLaughlin, Ally Ryder and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

This episode is a discussion of the multitude of letters received by the press and the police claiming to be from 'Jack the Ripper' during the Autumn of Terror. Listen in as Jonathan Menges, Mike Covell, Ally Ryder, Chris Scott and Gareth Williams talk about this most notorious aspect of the Whitechapel murders.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode welcomes special guest, author Fiona Rule to discuss her book 'The Worst Street In London', a history of Dorset Street in Spitalfields. It was on this street where the Ripper's final victim, Mary Jane Kelly, lived and died. Rich in history, but poor for hundreds of years, Dorset Street is a unique, notorious, and now lost part of London's history. Joining the podcast as guest co-host is Coral Kelly from the Whitechapel Society. Robert McLaughlin and Jonathan Menges also appear.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode covers the 31 August murder of Mary Ann Nichols, who is widely considered to be the first victim of 'Jack the Ripper'. Listen in as Robert McLaughlin, Ally Ryder and Howard Brown join Jonathan Menges to discuss the murder of 'Polly' and all of the events surrounding the discovery of her body in Bucks Row. Later, researcher Chris Scott joins the podcast to add his input on this crime that popularly inaugurated the Autumn of Terror

Listen to this podcast »

This episode of Rippercast welcomes researcher and author Tim Riordan to the show to discuss the life and times of Ripper suspect Dr. Francis Tumblety. Listen in as Mr. Riordan talks about his discovery of the first photograph to surface of the famous Indian Herb Doctor, as well as the highlights and low-lights of the colorful Doctor's life. Joining the podcast as co-host is Ally Ryder

Listen to this podcast »

This episode of Rippercast surveys the history of the Whitechapel Murders in documentaries. Listen in as Jonathan Menges and Mike Covell, joined by special guest, author Philip Hutchinson, discuss Jack the Ripper documentaries on video, DVD and television from 1959 to the present day.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode of Rippercast welcomes Cindy Collins Smith, the talent behind www.hollywoodripper.com. Joining the show to discuss Jack the Ripper in the movies is Chris Scott, Ally Ryder, Mike Covell and Lavaughn Towell

Listen to this podcast »

This episode is a discussion of the 'Jack the Ripper and the East End' exhibition that was held at the Museum in the Docklands, London, from 15 May thru 2 November 2008. Special guests joining this episode are authors Jana Oliver, Philip Hutchinson and John Bennett. Hear their reviews and impressions of the exhibit as well as the coinciding lectures being hosted by the Docklands. Co-hosting this episode are Ally Ryder, Paul Begg, Mike Covell and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

This episode is a conversation featuring authors Martin Fido and Paul Begg. Author and researcher Chris Scott sits in as well as Prof. Lavaughn Towell. The discussion centers on Fido, Begg and Skinner's work on the updated book 'Jack the Ripper A-Z', and some challenges faced by authors and researchers when working on the Whitechapel murders. Ally Ryder, Robert McLaughlin, Mike Covell and Jonathan Menges co-host.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode welcomes researcher and author Chris Scott to the podcast. Mr. Scott, contributing editor of Ripperologist magazine, census researcher, press report archivist, and author of 'Will the Real Mary Kelly...?' discusses many aspects of the case. The subjects include his ongoing investigation and findings into the lives of those involved in the Autumn of Terror, his thoughts on the mystery of Mary Jane Kelly and her circle, as well as other histories of persons of interest in the Whitechapel Murders investigation. Joining this episode is Paul Begg, Robert McLaughlin and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

Rippercast welcomes Kelly Robinson, organizer of the 2008 US Jack the Ripper conference. Ms. Robinson lets us know what to expect from this years biennial gathering taking place in Knoxville, TN. We hear about the guest speakers currently on tap, some social events that have taken place at past conferences and what the first-time conference attendee might expect. She also discusses what goes into the planning of this all important event for researchers and novices of the Whitechapel murders. With Robert McLaughlin, Ally Ryder and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

Rippercast welcomes Professor Lavaughn Towell from the University of Tulsa, Oklahoma, to discuss his Seminar class on Jack the Ripper's London. Listen in as Paul Begg, Robert McLaughlin and Jonathan Menges talk with Prof. Towell about conducting a class on the Whitechapel murders in an American University, related aspects of the Victoria period that interest him, as well as other criminal cases and their lasting legacies in both the UK and the USA

Listen to this podcast »

This episode of Rippercast focuses on the 30 September, 1888 murder of Elizabeth Stride. Was she really a victim of 'Jack the Ripper'? Or was her murder likely one of domestic violence? We discuss many aspects of this crime, its nature, its witnesses and suspects. Participating in this episode are Mike Covell, Robert McLaughlin, Ally Ryder and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

In the first one-on-one episode, Jonathan Menges discusses the case with author Stan Russo. Listen in as Mr. Russo details his theory on who were responsible for the Whitechapel Murders.

Listen to this podcast »

Join us as author Paul Begg, author, researcher and sometime co-host of Rippercast, switches hats and sits in the special guest chair. During this episode Paul discusses his authorship of 'The Uncensored Facts', 'The Definitive History', and his ongoing work with his co-authors on the 'A-Z'. Mr. Begg also answers questions about Anderson's suspect, Swanson's Kosminski, the Docklands exhibition, Patricia Cornwell, and Cornwell's collaboration with researcher Keith Skinner. Robert McLaughlin and Ally Ryder joined Jonathan Menges for this episode of Rippercast

Listen to this podcast »

Frogg Moody from the Whitechapel Society 1888 joins us as the special guest for this episode of Rippercast. Listen in as Frogg discusses, amongst many things, the history of the Whitechapel Society, the old days of the Cloak and Dagger Club, the early years of Ripperologist Magazine and the ongoing as well as future publishing and societal activities of the WS 1888. This podcast episode also features Paul Begg, Stan Russo, Ally Ryder, Robert McLaughlin, Mike Covell and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

Rippercast welcomes author and researcher Neil Bell to discuss the 30 September 1888 murder of Catherine Eddowes. Topics surrounding this most brutal murder and covered on this episode include the organ removal, depositing of the apron, the Goulston Street Graffito, the Lusk Letter and kidney as well as the 'Saucy Jack' postcard. Plus, Neil talks about the presentation he gave about this murder at the 2007 UK Ripper Conference that took place in Catherine Eddowes' hometown of Wolverhampton. Special co-host Jana Oliver.

Listen to this podcast »

Rippercast welcomes photographer, researcher and author John Bennett. John discusses his upcoming book 'E1- A Journey through Whitechapel and Spitalfields', and his 20 year long history of photographing sites in the East End of London. He talk with us as well of London Jobs, rediscovered photographs, the Casebook Photo Archive, and a visit with the 17 September 'Jack the Ripper' letter.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode welcomes Martin Fido. Dr. Fido is an established expert on true crime and 'Jack the Ripper', being co-author of the A-Z and author of 'The Crimes, Detection and Death of Jack the Ripper'. On this program Martin discusses his theory of suspect David Cohen, gives us news about the upcoming revised A-Z, and answers questions on many other Ripper-related topics.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode of Rippercast welcomes researcher and authoe Debra Arif to discuss the London Thames Torso Murders of 1887-1889. Our conversation covers the Thames and Regent's canal vicim, The Whitehall Mystery, the Pinchin Street Torso and the murder and dismemberment of Elizabeth Jackson. All of these crimes are, like the Ripper murders, unsolved. Theories are presented and questions are answered on this special episode about an often overlooked and understudied aspect of the Whitechapel murders.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode features special guest, author Stan Russo. Mr. Russo talks about his views on researching Jack the Ripper, suspect theorizing, and why he likes the movie 'From Hell'. We also discuss Walter Sickert, J.K. Stephen, and the merits of a variety of named suspects.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode welcomes special guest Stephen P. Ryder, the founder and editor of the research website Casebook: Jack the Ripper. Listen in as we hear about the history of the Casebook website, the press project, blog, and many other projects and contributions Stephen Ryder has made in the field of Ripperology and Victorian British history preservation. With Paul Begg and Andy Spallek.

Listen to this podcast »

Special Guest Philip Hutchinson appears for this episode of the podcast. Listen in as we talk with Philip about such topics as Jack the Ripper walks, Ghost Stories from Whitechapel, East End building preservation, and his new book 'The London of Jack the Ripper: Then and Now', co-authored with Robert Clack.

Listen to this podcast »

In this episode we discuss the 7 August 1888 murder of 39 year-old Martha Tabram. Her status as a victim of 'Jack the Ripper' is still a subject of debate 120 years after her death. Was she really out with 'Pearly Poll' that night? Did the killer use two weapons? Is she a victim of the Whitechapel murderer, and why does it matter? With Howard Brown, Mike Covell, Robert Mclaughlin and Jonathan Menges

Listen to this podcast »

Special guest, writer and researcher Andrew Spallek joins the Rippercast for a discussion of CID Chief Melville Macnaghten's leading suspect Montague Druitt. Andy discusses his discovery of the West of England MP whom is believed to have been the source of Macnaghten's private information fingering the barrister and former teacher as the Whitechapel Murderer.

Listen to this podcast »

Special guest, Ripper Notes editor Dan Norder joins us for a discussion of the myths and misconceptions that surround the Whitechapel murders. We address the contemporary press' role in feeding misinformation to a public hungry for details, and how these myths have trickled down to the present day, as well as authors who fell victim to the urge to create myths in order to bolster their suspect's status as the Ripper.

Listen to this podcast »

This episode covers the highlights and low-lights of 100 years worth of Whitechapel murder depictions in the popular mediums of Film, Radio and Television. Special guest, aspiring filmmaker Justin Dombrowski discusses with us Jack the Ripper portrayals of the past, and what the future may hold for utilizing the Whitechapel murders as the subject matter for popular entertainment.

Listen to this podcast »

Special guest Robert McLaughlin joins the show to discuss the mortuary and crime scene photographs detailing the murder victims of 'Jack the Ripper'. McLaughlin is the author of the immensely popular book 'The First Jack the Ripper Victim Photographs' and is an expert on the Whitechapel murders as well as the history of mortuary and crime scene photography in the Late Victorian period. In this episode, we discuss with him the work of Joseph Martin, the man who photographed the majority of the victims during London's Autumn of Terror.

Listen to this podcast »

This, the first episode of Rippercast, covers the tale of suspect Robert Donston Stephenson. With Stephenson expert Howard Brown and researcher Mike Covell. Black magician? Murderer of women? A man unable to scale the fence at the London Hospital? Listen in to this warts-and-all maiden episode of the Jack the Ripper podcast.

Listen to this podcast »