Episode Title: Herb the Serial Killer: The Chilling Story of an Indiana Man Tied to the I-70 Murders

Show Notes:

Episode Summary:

In this chilling episode of Mystery Talk, Jean Ginner dives deep into the disturbing case of Herb Baumeister, an Indiana businessman and family man who was also a suspected serial killer. Could Herb be the elusive I-70 killer, responsible for a string of unsolved murders along the Interstate 70 corridor in the early 1990s? Explore the life of Herb, the shocking discoveries on his Fox Hollow Farm property, and the evidence that has linked him to gruesome murders that haunted the Midwest.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Herb Baumeister:
• A look into Herb's seemingly ordinary life as a husband, father, and successful business owner in Indianapolis, Indiana. Despite his respectable image, Herb had a dark, hidden side.
• The Murders at Fox Hollow Farm:
• In the mid-90s, authorities discovered skeletal remains of numerous young men on Herb's sprawling estate, Fox Hollow Farm. How did this discovery unravel the horrifying truth behind Herb's double life?
• The I-70 Killer Connection:
• Between 1992 and 1994, a string of murders took place along I-70. Victims, mostly young men, were killed execution-style. We explore the theory that Herb Baumeister could be the I-70 killer and examine the evidence pointing to this connection.
• The Investigation and Herb's Death:
• As authorities closed in, Herb fled to Canada, where he took his own life, leaving behind more questions than answers. In this episode, we discuss the investigation, Herb's suicide, and the chilling note he left behind.
• Unanswered Questions:
• Even after Herb’s death, many questions remain unanswered. Was he solely responsible for the I-70 killings? Could there be other victims who have yet to be discovered?

In this heartwarming episode of Mystery Talk, Jean Ginner speaks with Bruce Erickson, the founder of the 17th Judicial Circuit Court Volunteer Therapy Dog Program. Established over a decade ago, this 501(C)3 non-profit organization provides much-needed comfort and support through therapy dogs in various challenging environments.

Join us as we explore:

• The origins and growth of the therapy dog program in the 17th Judicial Circuit Court.
• How the program began with visits to juvenile courtrooms and expanded to other courtrooms, classrooms, and domestic violence centers.
• The calming and comforting effects these therapy dogs have on individuals, especially in the aftermath of traumatic events such as school shootings and crime.
• Bruce’s efforts in advocating for and spreading the therapy dog program across other counties in Illinois.
• Notable recognition and support from Governor Pritzger, who has engaged with Bruce to learn more about the program.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Founding and mission of the 17th Judicial Circuit Court Volunteer Therapy Dog Program.
• The impact of therapy dogs in courtrooms and other stressful environments.
• Expansion of the program and its presence in various facilities.
• Bruce Erickson’s advocacy and outreach efforts.
• The importance of therapy dogs in providing emotional support and comfort.

Contact Information:

For more details about the 17th Judicial Circuit Court Volunteer Therapy Dog Program, contact Mary Ellen Commare at 815-289-1568 or visit its official website.

Location:

17th Judicial Winnebago County Courthouse

400 W. State St. Suite 215

Rockford, IL 61101

Connect with Us:

• Website: mysterytalk.com
• Facebook: facebook.com/mysterytalk
• Instagram: @jeanginner911

How to Support the Show:

• Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.
• Share this episode with friends and family who might benefit from or be interested in therapy dog programs.
• Follow us on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Thank you for tuning in to Mystery Talk with Jean Ginner. Stay tuned for more fascinating discussions and explorations into the mysteries that touch our lives!

Episode: #2

Host: Jean Ginner

Guest: Mary Oldham, Award-Winning Writer

Episode Summary:

In the second episode of Mystery Talk, Jean Ginner chats with the illustrious Mary Oldham, an award-winning writer known for her captivating romance and fiction novels. With over 20 books, Mary shares her journey from aspiring author to celebrated novelist and screenwriter.

Join us as we explore:

• Mary's path to success as a romance and fiction writer.
• The transition from writing novels to crafting her first screenplay.
• Adventures and experiences throughout her writing career.
• Valuable advice for budding writers and screenwriters embarking on their creative journeys.

Mary provides insights into the challenges and rewards of being a writer, offering practical tips and inspiration for those looking to follow in her footsteps.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Early inspirations and beginnings of Mary's writing career.
• Success stories and achievements in romance and fiction writing.
• Insights into the process of writing a screenplay.
• Adventures and notable experiences as a writer.
• Advice for new writers and screenwriters, including pitfalls to avoid and strategies for success.

Books by Mary Oldham:

• The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction
• A Paris Affair (Book 1 of The Hotel Baron Series)
• A Summer Affair (Book 2 of The Hotel Baron Series)
• A Roman Affair (Book 3 of The Hotel Baron Series)
• A London Affair (Book 4 of The Hotel Baron Series)
• Sisters Before Misters (The Silver Linings Series)
• CRUSH
• The Poison Garden
• Sage's Redemption
• Toni's Secret
• Roxie's Circus
• Kimberly's Reckoning
• How to Self-Publish

For a full list of her works and to learn more about Mary, visit her Amazon Author Page and her official website.

Connect with Us:

• Website: mysterytalk.com
• Facebook: facebook.com/mysterytalk
• Instagram: @jeanginner911

How to Support the Show:

• Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.
• Share this episode with friends and family passionate about writing and storytelling.
• Follow us on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Thank you for tuning in to Mystery Talk with Jean Ginner. Stay tuned for more intriguing conversations and explorations of life's mysteries!