‘Serial Killers’ struggles in the face of change

BY CAROLINE CRAIN

News Editor

When “Serial Killers” first launched in early 2017, it quickly became one of the most popular true crime podcasts on Parcast, a network later acquired by Spotify. Hosted by Greg Polcyn and Vanessa Richardson, the show drew in millions of listeners with its blend of detailed storytelling, careful research and psychological depth. 

Every episode followed a clear, reliable structure: The first part explored the killer’s childhood and psychological background, while the second detailed their crimes, capture and trial. In one to three episodes, listeners could trace a case from the earliest warning signs to the final verdict. 

It felt organized and academic, yet gripping. Polcyn’s steady narration paired well with Richardson’s empathetic tone, creating a rhythm that made each story easy to follow without losing its emotional impact.

Beyond its case-by-case format, “Serial Killers” occasionally produced themed mini-series that explored broader topics within true crime. These included short runs like the “Hitmen” series, which profiled contract killers and assassins, and the “Earth Day” specials, which focused on crimes involving the environment. These series gave listeners variety and showed the producers’ ability to explore patterns in criminal psychology rather than focusing solely on individuals. 

Unlike many true crime podcasts, “Serial Killers” didn’t sensationalize. It treated its subjects as case studies rather than characters. The hosts often referenced the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to discuss antisocial personality disorder, psychopathy or trauma, giving the show a distinct educational angle. They also provided their most helpful sources at the end of each episode so listeners could dig deeper into the cases themselves.

Episodes like “The Monster of Florence” showed this research-driven approach at its best. Over two parts, the hosts unpacked one of Italy’s most haunting murder cases, exploring not only the killer’s actions but how media pressure and cultural context shaped the investigation. 

Their coverage of Jack the Ripper, a three-part special, felt equally comprehensive, connecting historical details with early forensic psychology. For listeners who enjoy psychology, criminology or investigative storytelling, “Serial Killers” was a perfect blend of education and intrigue.

But as the years went on, things began to change. Around 2021, longtime listeners noticed that Polcyn’s voice was gone. Richardson continued solo for a while, maintaining the thoughtful tone that made the show stand out. Then, in early 2023, she announced her departure, thanking fans for “seven amazing years” on social media before joining another production company. 

After that, guest hosts temporarily stepped in, such as Jenice Morgan from the podcast “Fear Thy Neighbor” and Carter Roy from Parcast’s “Conspiracy Theories.” Right now, the show is posting reruns in a period of flux as they tease the announcement of a new host. 

The difference was noticeable. The episodes grew shorter, often 25 to 30 minutes instead of the usual 45, and less detailed. The in-depth psychological explanations were replaced by quicker summaries. Topics began repeating, revisited in new versions that didn’t feel as rich as the originals. 

Listeners shared mixed reactions. Some said the new hosts had potential, while others felt the show had lost its spark. 

On the episode “Profit Killer: Dorothea Puente,” where Morgan announced her departure from the show, Spotify user latenightbloomer commented, “I’m soo disappointed that Jenice isn’t staying on as the permanent host! She brought back my love of the show after I stopped listening over a year ago. She will be sorely missed.” 

Others disagreed, pointing out production flaws, as well. 

“I don’t mind the new narrator, even though she doesn’t tell stories as well as Vanessa did. My main issue with the podcast is that it doesn’t seem to be about serial killers anymore at all,” user Melissa Dom commented under the episode “Operation Trace: The Missing Women of Ireland’s Vanishing Triangle.” “The whole point of it was the psychological discussion of individual killers. I’m not even sure what this podcast is supposed to be about anymore.” 

That opinion was echoed by other longtime fans. 

“I feel like this podcast lost a lot of substance when Vanessa left,” user Karyn Pinter commented under the same episode. “I feel like we’re being read the Wikipedia page of these topics.” 

Part of what made “Serial Killers” special was its tone. It wasn’t afraid to acknowledge the darkness of its subject matter, but it never crossed into exploitation. Instead, it focused on understanding. 

Each episode opened with a haunting but calm introduction, often underscored by quiet background music that built tension without distraction. The pacing allowed space for reflection, pauses after heavy details, soft transitions between sections and a voice that carried both authority and empathy. 

The newer episodes still maintain some of that style, but with less texture. The background score is simpler, the dialogue feels more scripted and the research less thorough. Still, it’s clear the producers are trying to keep the show alive for fans who’ve been listening since 2017. Even if the formula isn’t quite the same, it’s worth recognizing that “Serial Killers” continues to at least attempt to provide accessible true crime stories for casual listeners. 

From a broader perspective, the show helped shape how true crime podcasts are made today. When it debuted, podcasts like “Serial” and “My Favorite Murder” were already popular, but “Serial Killers” carved out a niche that focused more on psychology than storytelling drama. Its success influenced later Parcast shows like “Cults,” “Conspiracy Theories” and “Medical Murders,” all of which use the same research-based approach. 

Despite its recent struggles, “Serial Killers” remains an important part of podcast history. It introduced a generation of listeners to the psychology behind some of the world’s darkest minds while maintaining respect for victims and facts. Its archive of episodes serves as both education and entertainment. 

If you’re new to the show, start with the early seasons and work your way up. You’ll find thoughtful storytelling, haunting sound design and a look into what makes people commit unthinkable acts. And by the time you reach the newer episodes, you might even see how the show, much like its subjects, evolved through change. 

For new listeners and true crime fans looking for something both chilling and intelligent, “Serial Killers” is still well worth the listen.