True crime remains the most captivating category in the world of podcasts, delivering the thrill, suspense, and raw fear that we get from a Law & Order episode right into our eardrums. There’s a unique allure to an intriguing crime riddle unraveling in audio format — it’s akin to a contemporary ghost tale or a nod to the radio thrillers from times gone by. And The Clearing Podcast is an amazing example of how this medium can be used effectively to tell stories.
The true-crime podcast tells the incredible story of April Balascio, and her undertaking to track down if her father was involved in many unsolved murders.
About The Clearing Podcast
When April called a detective in 2009 to share her doubts, it set off a chain of events leading to her father’s arrest and eventual conviction for multiple murders. The Clearing is a story that follows her as she and host Josh Dean dig into her past, seek the true story about her father’s life, and challenge the viral online narrative that turned Edward Wayne Edwards into a mere serial killer caricature.
Veteran journalist Josh Dean reached out to Balascio several years after Edwards’ demise. He was researching conspiracy theories linking Edwards to the deaths of various high-profile victims such as JonBenét Ramsey and Laci Peterson. Although Dean was aware that these theories were false, he kept his suspicions that Balascio’s father was involved in additional killings. April, on the other hand, believed her father committed more murders and was irked with the media’s obsession with renowned cases rather than focusing on suspicions she believed to be possible. As a result, a friendship blossomed between Balascio and Dean, and they jointly embarked on an investigation of her father’s life and felonies.
At the age of 40, April Balascio’s long-standing fear was finally proven true. Her father, Edward Wayne Edwards, really was a murderer.
Featuring interviews with April, as well as private recordings of Edwards while he was still alive, The Clearing is a chilling and captivating listen. Pineapple Street Media and Gimlet Media produce the podcast, and they do a fantastic job of bringing the story to life.
What’s So Great About the Show?
The Clearing stands out from other podcasts in its ability to tell a complex story with clarity and emotion. Through April’s brave journey, we get an intimate look at the effects of such a heinous crime on her life. The podcast also dives into Edward Wayne Edwards’ psychology, exploring his character and why he committed such terrible acts.
The Clearing is immersive and often harrowing to listen to, but it’s also incredibly moving. It’s an intimate look at the power of forgiveness and resilience, as well as an intriguing exploration of a killer’s motivations.
The Clearing is an absorbing and emotional journey that will keep you hooked until the end. It’s a fascinating look into the mind and motivations of a killer, as well as a powerful story of one woman’s courage and resilience. They use sound and music effectively to create an eerie atmosphere that adds to the tension of the podcast. With twists, turns, and suspense around every corner, The Clearing is sure to draw you in. If you’re looking for an intense, thought-provoking podcast, this is one you won’t want to miss.
I Just Love how the Show Is Put Together. The Clearing is an expertly put-together podcast. The production values are excellent, with a compelling score and sound effects that add to the atmosphere. The storytelling is also top-notch, with a compelling narrative and an excellent interview style.
What’s Not So Great About the Clearing Podcast?
The only downside to The Clearing is that it’s not for the faint of heart. Some of the stories and details can be quite graphic and disturbing, so it’s worth mentioning that this podcast may not be suitable for everyone. And one more thing to keep in mind before you start listening is that the podcast does get quite dark at times. If you’re in a fragile emotional state, it might be better to wait until you’re feeling a bit stronger before giving The Clearing a listen.
Final Thoughts
The Clearing is an intense and moving podcast that tells an incredibly powerful story. With great production values and a gripping narrative, it’s sure to keep you hooked until the end. So, if you’re looking for a thought-provoking and captivating podcast, The Clearing is definitely worth checking out. With its compelling narrative and expertly crafted audio, it’s one of the best true crime stories out there.
Highly Recommended for those who enjoy a deep dive into the dark side. Just be sure to have a tissue nearby! You might need it.
