The First Degree

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Rating
4.5
from
10023 reviews
This podcast has
858 episodes
Language
Explicit
Yes
Date created
2018/08/08
Latest episode
2026/04/23
Average duration
53 min.
Release period
3 days

Description

Do you ever wonder what it’s like to be friends with a murderer? Or escape a kidnapping? Or have a father who was a serial killer? Join Jac Vanek and Alexis Linkletter on a chilling ride into the darkest corners of your worst nightmares. Murders, cults, kidnappings, and conspiracies—all told through the eyes of a guest who is one degree of separation from the story itself. From infamous serial killers to the unbelievable unknown murder in your own backyard, The First Degree delivers a new perspective to the already fascinating true crime landscape. And who knows... you may be our next guest. (Plus, join them every Thursday for Killing Time, the light-hearted, true crime-adjacent aftershow!)

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DEEP DIVE: HALEY BECK, PART 2
2026/04/23
Another week of crazy headlines awaits us including D4VD finally being arrested, Michael Jackson’s weird link to Epstein, and Gislaine Maxwell’s possible pardon. And unfortunately we’re back diving deep into the Haley Beck / Angela Burlaka scandal because a new bombshell drops every day. Texts, videos from other classmates, unsent notes from her phone. The list goes on and on and on. 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Episode 399: Clayton Echard
2026/04/22
You might know Clayton Echard as The Bachelor, but this time, he’s sitting down to tell his side of the story. In this special interview episode, we’re joined by Clayton Echard and Stephani Young of Love Trapped as we dig into the questions everyone’s been asking. Nothing is off limits: Clayton opens up about the headlines, the controversy, and what it’s really been like navigating the paternity scandal in real time. It’s raw, unfiltered, and gives a deeper look at the story beyond what you’ve seen online. 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Clayton Echard: The Story
2026/04/21
You might know Clayton Echard as The Bachelor, but lately his name has been tied to something far messier: a viral paternity scandal filled with bold accusations, conflicting stories, and nonstop online speculation. We’re unpacking the timeline, the drama, and what actually went down before we release our exclusive interview with him tomorrow, right in your feed. 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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EXCLUSIVE: MIKE EMERT
2026/04/21
On January 4, 2001, a real estate agent is found stabbed to death inside a home he is showing just outside Seattle, Washington. The scene is disturbing, the violence is extreme, and the person responsible is nowhere to be found. As the case unfolds, the evidence begins to point in a direction no one expected, connecting this murder to a series of homicides spanning decades. In this episode, Jac and Alexis examine the murder of Mike Emert, the investigation that uncovered a shocking suspect, and the question that still remains unanswered.
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DEEP DIVE: HALEY BECK
2026/04/16
We have found our new hyper fixation and it is the insane and unbelievable case of Haley Beck. We’re reading the police report, going through texts, and discussing it ALL. But before we dive in, we talk Ruby Rose’s accusations against Katy Perry, Melania Trump’s Epstein speech, and Frida McFadden’s true identity (spoiler alert, its literally just her with curly hair). 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Episode 398: The Last New Year’s Eve
2026/04/15
On New Year’s Eve 2019, deputies respond to reports of gunfire at a quiet home outside Montgomery, Texas. Inside, a young mother has been shot multiple times, and the man responsible is still at the scene. What unfolds is a devastating story of violence that didn’t begin that night—and warning signs that were missed along the way. In episode 398, Jac and Alexis examine how patterns of intimate partner violence can escalate over time, leaving a trail of close calls before turning fatal, and the lasting impact on the families left behind. 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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EXCLUSIVE: DIANE KING
2026/04/14
On February 9, 1991, a TV anchor is found shot to death in the driveway of her rural home in Marshall, Michigan, while her two small children sit inside the vehicle nearby. At first, the case seems to point to a threatening presence that had been lingering for months. But as detectives begin to examine the scene, small details don’t line up, inconsistencies start to surface, and the story begins to shift. In this episode, Jac and Alexis examine the murder of Diane King, the investigation that unraveled what really happened, and the truth that may have been hiding in plain sight.
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DEEP DIVE: EPSTEIN, ALIENS, AND EVEREST
2026/04/09
Epstein, aliens, and Everest, oh my! It’s a scam filled week over here at the Deep Dive, and we are exposing them all. From Mount Everest fraud, to alien controversy, to valley girl humanoid robots visiting the White House. And you know we couldn’t leave you hanging without giving you the latest tea on Blake & Justin. 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Episode 397: Jonathan Hoang
2026/04/08
On the morning of March 31, 2025, a mother goes to wake her son for school and finds his room empty. He is 21 years old, autistic, and vulnerable, and his routine is something he never breaks. But that morning, he is gone without a trace. As a widespread search begins and days pass with no answers, questions start to shift from where he went…to when someone took him. In episode 397, Jac and Alexis examine the disappearance of Jonathan Hoang and the urgent search to bring him home. 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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EXCLUSIVE: THE HALEY BECK SCANDAL
2026/04/07
*** BONUS EPISODE ALERT*** A disturbing scandal has surfaced in Peoria involving Centennial High School, where two female teachers from the same campus are accused of grooming the same male student, an allegation that has shocked the community and ignited intense scrutiny. One of the teachers, 27-year-old Haley Beck, is the sister of TikTok star turned actor Noah Beck, adding a layer of public attention to an already deeply troubling case. In this premium episode, Jac and Lex break down the rapidly unfolding details, examining how the alleged relationships developed, the warning signs that may have been missed, and the broader questions this case raises about power, access, and accountability inside schools. If you enjoyed this bonus episode in your feed this week, there's more where that came from, a LOT more... 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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DEEP DIVE: DISNEY ADULTS
2026/04/02
We’re all over the place with this weeks deep dive! Starting off with the headlines: government bimbo fetishes, Lindsey Graham (who has no kids) waving around a bubble wand at Disneyland while TSA workers still aren’t being paid, and allegedly the bullet that killed Charlie Kirk didn’t match Tyler Robinson’s gun (surprise surprise!). Then we pull the Epstein string to uncover some disgustingly similar operations in the 1970’s. It truly doesn’t stop! 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Episode 396: They Never Stop
2026/04/01
In February 2008, two trusted members of the Turlock, California community - a police officer and a teacher - are both accused of exploiting their positions to prey on a 17-year-old student. As the cases unfold, shocking details emerge about how the abuse began and how it was hidden. Years later, another respected educator from the same town is exposed for an inappropriate relationship with a student, setting off a chain of events that will eventually lead to a Dr. Phil appearance and a criminal investigation that stretches across decades. In episode 396, Jac and Alexis explore the crimes of officer Jorge Cruz and teacher James Hooker, and how patterns of grooming, manipulation, and abuse continued long after the first warning signs appeared. 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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EXCLUSIVE: PAUL JANDREAU
2026/03/31
On June 30, 2010, a man with a strict daily routine suddenly vanishes. He misses his usual stops, fails to pick up his co-worker, and doesn’t show up for work — something those closest to him know would never happen without explanation. As concern grows, a welfare check reveals nothing out of place at first. But as detectives dig deeper, what begins as a missing person case quickly turns into something far more calculated. In this episode, Jac and Alexis examine the murder of Paul Jandreau and the events that led to his death.
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DEEP DIVE: PALM BEACH PETE
2026/03/26
“I’m not Epstein, I’m Palm Beach Pete!” Or, at least that’s what Epstein’s new viral doppelgänger says. We deep dive this fascinating man on today’s episode, as well as other bizarre Epstein related headlines. But the important topic at hand is a book called The Tell, by a woman named Amy Griffin who allegedly stole an entire life story of abuse from her former classmate. It. Is. Wild. 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Heaven’s Gate Part 1 with Serial Killers & Murderous Minds
2026/03/25
In this special true crime crossover, we joined Vanessa Richardson and forensic psychologist Dr. Tristin Engels on Serial Killers and Murderous Minds for a two-part deep dive into Heaven’s Gate. For part 2 and our extended discussion with Dr. Engels , follow Serial Killers and Murderous Minds wherever you listen to podcasts. In the 1970s, Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles emerged with a radical message: they were celestial beings sent to guide humanity to the “Next Level.” What began as a small spiritual study group slowly transformed into a tightly controlled community built on isolation, strict behavioral codes, and the rejection of earthly identity. As belief deepened, individuality disappeared, and devotion to the mission became absolute. In Part 1, Vanessa and Dr. Engels examine how Applewhite’s personal crises, religious fixation, and apocalyptic thinking evolved into a doctrine that demanded total surrender. It’s a chilling look at how ordinary people searching for purpose and connection became entangled in a worldview where doubt was no longer allowed to exist. To hear us in Part 2, including our extended discussion with Vanessa Richardson and Dr. Engels, be sure to follow Serial Killers and Murderous Minds wherever you get your podcasts. Follow and listen here: https://play.megaphone.fm/fsc89gpqrvo6x6s_v1clyw 🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon: patreon.com/thefirstdegree 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree 🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee 👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree 📓 Substack: http://thefirstdegree.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Podcast reviews

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4.5 out of 5
10023 reviews
Queen Jenga 2026/04/22
Loved the Clayton Interview!
You ladies asked him and Stephanie every question I’ve been dying to know! Excellent interview
ChiknMama 2026/04/22
Sensible Input on Interesting Topics
Often times while I listen to the stories and details, something comes to mind and no sooner do I think it do they address it. I love the variety, the...
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nowakacres 2026/03/22
Can’t stop won’t stop
I have loved you ladies since day one. I am now passionately sharing because of the deep dive. We will never get the truth from main stream media. Tha...
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podreviewer69 2026/04/10
pod is fine
i just want everyone to know that macomb is pronounced muh-comb not may-kim what the hell
kkonfire39 2026/03/17
Faveee since 2019
I’ve been listening since 2019 and love this show so much and find such comfort with Alexis and Jac. It grosses me out how their rating has gone down ...
more
sanitalian 2026/03/21
I just can’t anymore!
I have listened to this show for quite awhile. I just cannot get past the mouth noises from Alexis. She needs to annunciate her words and quit talking...
more
rmense 2026/02/12
Top tier podcast
This is a must listen! Thank you for addressing the difficult topics with such grace and knowledge, ladies.
DeeDee428 2026/02/20
Cannibal NYC
Just would like to clarify, there was actually a restaurant in NYC called The Cannibal. It was on E 29th St and closed in 2019. I feel like when you’r...
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OC girl 2500 2026/02/12
So bias
I try & like them - we need more ladies in investigation - but they are so left bias —it negates everything they say. I am not for or against any side...
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molokai_man 2026/02/07
Almost impossible to listen to…
First of all, if you’re going to do a podcast try not to say the teenage grammatical barbarism “like” in nearly every sentence. Second, when you’re op...
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