Heart UK

Skeptical: An Investigative Podcast

Skeptical: An Investigative Podcast explores compelling criminal cases where the convicted maintain their innocence. Through interviews, case reviews, and meticulous examination, we uncover the complexities of each story. Follow us as we reinvestigate and uncover the truth behind the mysteries.

Murder Creek Media

Go beyond the investigation.Off the Record is the official companion series to Skeptical: An Investigative Podcast. After each episode of Skeptical, host Neeli Faulkner sits down with Murder Creek Media Associate Producer Emily Christy to unpack the investigation, answer listener questions, and share the stories, research, and behind-the-scenes moments that didn't make it into the original episode.In this first installment, Neeli and Emily revisit Episode 1: "He Just Knew Everything." They discuss what inspired Skeptical, how Murder Creek Media got its start, why wrongful convictions became part of the team's mission, and take a deeper look at some of the episode's biggest talking points, including false confessions, Daniel Blan's crime scene sketch, the Waffle House crime scene controversy, and more.If you've already listened to Episode 1, this is your bonus content. If you haven't, stop here and listen to Skeptical first. The series is designed to be experienced in order, and Off the Record contains spoilers for the episode it accompanies.Each episode of Off the Record corresponds to one episode of Skeptical, giving you an inside look at the investigation, the reporting process, and everything that happened beyond the microphone.

S01 E13 Off the Record: He Just Knew Everything (BONUS)

The moment has arrived. Daniel Blan’s case enters the courtroom as a hearing is held to address the evidence uncovered through this podcast. But just when it seems the case has reached its peak, a final piece of new evidence emerges—one that could change everything. Will justice finally be served? In this gripping season finale, Neeli Faulkner follows the case to its most critical moment yet.
This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
Skeptical is a production of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Murder Creek Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.
Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Descript⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our link⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

S01 E12 He Had Three Names

Daniel Blan's case is broadcasted to new audiences as an unexpected advocate picks up the story. With new resources and a national outlet to thrust Daniel's story into the spotlight, Neeli Faulkner hopes this will be the break she has been hoping for. Will the information discovered help Daniel, or will Neeli's understanding of the case take a whole new turn?
This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
Skeptical is a production of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Murder Creek Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.
Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Descript⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our link⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

S01 E11 Oh Crap, You Got Me

As Part 2 of the season begins, Neeli Faulkner uncovers a critical piece of evidence that could shift the entire case. A new witness steps forward, corroborating Daniel Blan’s claim that the State conspired to convict him of Mike Bernos’ murder. If true, this revelation threatens to unravel the prosecution’s entire narrative. How deep does this conspiracy run? And are there more witnesses willing to speak out? Neeli is determined to find out.
This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
Skeptical is a production of ⁠⁠⁠Murder Creek Media⁠⁠⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠⁠⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠⁠⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.
Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠⁠⁠Descript⁠⁠⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠⁠⁠our link⁠⁠⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

S01 E08 God Strike Me Dead

Just when the case couldn’t take a more unexpected turn, Neeli Faulkner uncovers another witness—one who tells the same story as the last but with even more shocking details. As the puzzle pieces fall into place, Neeli begins to realize that her theory might be right on point. Could this testimony be the key to unraveling the truth? The stakes are higher than ever, and the search for justice continues.
This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
Skeptical is a production of ⁠⁠⁠⁠Murder Creek Media⁠⁠⁠⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.
Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Descript⁠⁠⁠⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠⁠⁠⁠our link⁠⁠⁠⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

S01 E09 Blasé Blasé

Three more witnesses come forward, revealing a shocking truth that confirms Neeli Faulkner’s theory. With the evidence stacking up, the case against Daniel Blan is unraveling—but Neeli has taken the investigation as far as she can. Now, she needs someone who can take the fight for justice to the next level. Will this be the turning point in Daniel’s case?
This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
Skeptical is a production of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Murder Creek Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.
Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Descript⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our link⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

S01 E10 Alabama Justice

In this brief update, Neeli shares exciting news about major developments in Daniel’s case and new evidence that’s reshaping the investigation. While the release of new episodes has been delayed, Neeli assures listeners that the wait will be worth it. Plus, Spotify listeners can now leave comments on episodes to share their thoughts, questions, and theories, which will be addressed in upcoming bonus episodes, Beyond the Pod. Tune in to hear what’s next for Skeptical!

S01 BONUS: Just a Little Longer

In this episode, Neeli Faulkner looks into alternative theories surrounding the murder of Mike Bernos, unearthing new information that could change everything. As she pieces together overlooked details and interviews, Neeli uncovers the possibility of another murder that may be connected to the case. With fresh leads and unexpected twists, this episode takes the investigation down a chilling new path, raising more questions about what really happened—and who may have been involved.

This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Skeptical is a production of ⁠⁠Murder Creek Media⁠⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.

Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠⁠Descript⁠⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠⁠our link⁠⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse, confidential support and guidance is available. 

Crisis Text Line Available 24/7 Text: "HELLO" to 741741 Provides free, confidential crisis counseling via text.
National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Available 24/7 Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: "START" to 88788 For those experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, this hotline offers confidential support.



S01 E7 That Little Rumor

Host Neeli Faulkner and her team turn their attention to a piece of physical evidence that could reshape the entire case. An anonymous tip sends them to Rockford, Alabama, in a high-stakes search for the missing murder weapons. As they follow this promising lead, Neeli and her team confront the possibility that this discovery could unravel the truth behind the crime. Could this be the pivotal moment that changes everything?

This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Skeptical is a production of ⁠⁠Murder Creek Media⁠⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.

Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠⁠Descript⁠⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠⁠our link⁠⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse, confidential support and guidance is available. 

Crisis Text Line Available 24/7 Text: "HELLO" to 741741 Provides free, confidential crisis counseling via text.
National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Available 24/7 Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: "START" to 88788 For those experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, this hotline offers confidential support.


S01 E06 Want Me To Dig It?

In this episode of Skeptical, host Neeli Faulkner reviews the witness testimonies of three key figures, all of whom were incarcerated at the time of their statements. As Neeli reviews their accounts, she uncovers several inconsistencies and raises critical questions about their credibility. Could these witnesses have been incentivized to provide false testimony?

This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Skeptical is a production of ⁠Murder Creek Media⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.

Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠Descript⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠our link⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse, confidential support and guidance is available. 

Crisis Text Line Available 24/7 Text: "HELLO" to 741741 Provides free, confidential crisis counseling via text.
National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Available 24/7 Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: "START" to 88788 For those experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, this hotline offers confidential support.


S01 E05 All They Had Were Lies

In this episode, Neeli Faulkner shifts the focus to Tony Quince, the second defendant tied to the murder of Mike Bernos. The discussion centers on the single piece of physical evidence linking Daniel Blan to Tony, raising doubts about its legitimacy. Neeli also uncovers the story of a key witness whose testimony begins a troubling pattern—one that suggests multiple witnesses may have been less than truthful about what they saw. As the case grows more complex, the search for the truth takes an unsettling turn.

This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Skeptical is a production of ⁠Murder Creek Media⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.

Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠Descript⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠our link⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse, confidential support and guidance is available. 

Crisis Text Line Available 24/7 Text: "HELLO" to 741741 Provides free, confidential crisis counseling via text.
National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Available 24/7 Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: "START" to 88788 For those experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, this hotline offers confidential support.


S01 E04 Troublemaker

In this pivotal episode, Neeli Faulkner and Joshua Scott travel to Rockford, Alabama, to walk through the scene of the crime that changed Daniel Blan’s life. They meet with one of Daniel’s former attorneys to reexamine his alibi, which hinged on a time card from his workplace. Yet, a conversation with a juror uncovers that the jury largely dismissed this evidence, swayed by the testimony of Daniel’s supervisor.

Neeli pieces together whether Daniel could have realistically made it to the crime scene and explores potential alternative motives for the murder. Just as new insights surface, an unexpected plot twist is revealed, turning the investigation on its head.

This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Skeptical is a production of ⁠Murder Creek Media⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.

Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠Descript⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠our link⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse, confidential support and guidance is available. 

Crisis Text Line Available 24/7 Text: "HELLO" to 741741 Provides free, confidential crisis counseling via text.
National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Available 24/7 Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: "START" to 88788 For those experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, this hotline offers confidential support.


S01 E03 Are You Steve?

Neeli Faulkner explores the troubling details of Daniel Blan's case, including allegations of misconduct and critical evidence that was potentially withheld. Through intense phone conversations and in-person interviews, Neeli investigates claims that a state official may have withheld crucial information that could warrant Daniel a new trial.

This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Skeptical is a production of ⁠Murder Creek Media⁠, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit ⁠murdercreekmedia.com/donate⁠ to learn how you can support us and our mission.

Skeptical is sponsored in part by ⁠Descript⁠. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using ⁠our link⁠, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse, confidential support and guidance is available. 

Crisis Text Line Available 24/7 Text: "HELLO" to 741741 Provides free, confidential crisis counseling via text.
National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Available 24/7 Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: "START" to 88788 For those experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, this hotline offers confidential support.


S01 E02 Mike Had a Sickness

Did the justice system get it wrong?In the debut episode of Skeptical, investigative podcaster Neeli Faulkner re-examines the 1994 murder trial of Daniel Blan, convicted of killing his adoptive father, Mike Bernos, in Rockford, Alabama. Daniel claims he was wrongfully convicted, but does the evidence support his life sentence - or was the real killer overlooked?Through exclusive interviews with witnesses, jurors, and experts, Neeli uncovers shocking inconsistencies, missing evidence, and new perspectives that could change everything. Was justice truly served, or is an innocent man behind bars?This series contains adult language and includes content that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is strongly advised.Skeptical is a production of Murder Creek Media, a woman-owned podcasting and media company. Without backing from any production studio or corporate entity, we have the freedom to explore cases thoroughly and tell the stories that matter most. While this independence allows for creative control, it also means that we rely heavily on listener support to keep the show going. Please visit murdercreekmedia.com/donate to learn how you can support us and our mission.Skeptical is sponsored in part by Descript. We use Descript for all our podcast editing and transcription needs, and it’s been a game changer for our production process. If you're interested in creating your own podcast, Descript has everything you need. By signing up using our link, you'll not only get a great tool but also help support our show. If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse, confidential support and guidance is available.  Crisis Text Line Available 24/7 Text: "HELLO" to 741741 Provides free, confidential crisis counseling via text. National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Available 24/7 Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: "START" to 88788 For those experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, this hotline offers confidential support.

S01 E01 He Just Knew Everything

Are the guilty always guilty? Skeptical is a true crime investigative podcast that reexamines cases where the defendant claims they were wrongfully convicted. Each season, we thoroughly investigate one case, uncovering new evidence and speaking with witnesses, law enforcement, attorneys, and the defendants themselves. 
Join host Neeli Faulkner as she works to unravel the truth behind some of the most controversial convictions—because every case deserves a second look.
Season One launches October 1st with episodes 1–5. Subscribe and stay tuned for more.

Season 1 Trailer (Release Information)

Welcome to Skeptical, where skepticism meets investigation. In our first season, join us on a gripping journey into the case of Michael Bernos, a high school teacher and coach whose life was tragically cut short in 1994. The prime suspect? His own adoptive son, Daniel Blan, who sits behind bars proclaiming his innocence.
As we peek deep into the shadows of this case, we scrutinize every shred of evidence, every witness account, and every twist in the narrative. Can we uncover the truth buried beneath the layers of uncertainty and doubt? Join us as we reexamine the case, challenging assumptions, questioning motives, and following the trail of clues left behind.
Is Daniel Blan truly guilty, or is there more to this story than meets the eye? Find out this season on Skeptical.