TRIGGER WARNING: This episode covers the topic of rape, so listener discretion is advised. 
A Supermarket Nightmare: How a Killer Walked Among Us Part 1 - Dawn, host of Scottish Murders, explores a chilling case that unfolds in two parts. The episodes focus on John Cant Smith, a man whose extensive criminal history raised questions about the justice system. Dawn recounts John Cant Smith's attempted abduction of Dr. Frances Smith in 2006, a time when his prior convictions for murder and rape were disclosed. Dawn also discusses the lenient sentencing practices of the 1980s, and tries to understand why this man was ever released from prison.

Part 2 continues to look at the disturbing case of John Cant Smith, a convicted murderer and rapist who was released from prison despite mounting evidence he remained dangerous. After serving 19 years for a brutal 1983 murder, John Cant Smith was freed in 2002, only to reoffend within months. This episode explores his 1987 involvement in the notorious Peterhead Prison riot, his subsequent crimes including prowling around a mother and daughter's home, and his 2006 attempted abduction. Host Dawn questions why John Cant Smith was repeatedly released despite clear warning signs, examining failures in the criminal justice system that allowed a violent offender to threaten public safety. The episode also raises questions about rehabilitation, life sentences that don't mean life, and whether some criminals deserve second chances when their victims never received one.

Scotland Then: Master Keys, Murder Trials and Incredible Survival Stories from Scotland’s 1983

Welcome back to another Scotland Then, where we journey through intriguing and sometimes shocking stories from Scotland’s past as reported in newspapers.

In this episode, Dawn takes us to April and June of 1983, a time marked by notorious crimes, prison scandals, and unexpected accidents. We’ll hear of the master key controversy at Dungavel Prison, where an inmate allegedly bribed a prison officer and crafted keys that opened almost every lock. There’s also the morbid tale of Catherine Grier’s murder, as well as a party that spiralled into violence and culminated in a tragic shooting.

Amidst these grim headlines, we get a glimpse into lighter news, such as Edinburgh University’s feature in a BBC documentary, and the survival story of a teenager who fell into a 150-foot gully on a rope swing—living to tell the tale. Commenting on the culture and crime of the era, Dawn asks listeners to remember, respond, and share their own experiences.

Tune in for an episode packed with real-life drama, and even a few moments of Scottish nostalgia.

Castle Fraser in Aberdeenshire stands as one of Scotland's largest tower houses, concealing centuries of dark secrets within its 1450s core. Beyond the colourful walled gardens lies a fortress of hidden passages, including the laird's lug—a secret spy room for eavesdropping on the great hall below. The castle harbours chilling tales: the Green Lady, murdered and dragged down the round tower staircase, her blood staining the steps so permanently they required wooden panelling that remains today. Then there's the Lady in Black, who died of tuberculosis days after marrying Laird Frederick Mackenzie Fraser—her shaved auburn hair still preserved in the castle collection, whilst her spirit reportedly wanders the grounds. This Halloween special explores the haunting history of a Scottish landmark where architectural grandeur meets macabre legend, and where the vibrant colours of the gardens fade to something far darker within the ancient walls.

A 1967 Scottish Mystery: The Disappearance of Pat McAdam Part 1- This episode explores the disappearance of 17-year-old Pat McAdam in February 1967. It recounts Pat's last known movements, from a night out in Glasgow to hitchhiking home with a friend. The case takes a dark turn when Pat vanishes after being dropped off by a lorry driver. The episode examines the extensive police investigation, including nationwide searches and public appeals. It also introduces Thomas Ross Young, the lorry driver who was the last person to see Pat alive, and his criminal history. The host promises more twists in future episodes, including involvement of a clairvoyant and potential breakthroughs in the case.

The Clairvoyant's Quest: Unravelling Pat McAdam's Disappearance Part 2 - This episode of Scottish Murders explores the ongoing investigation into Pat McAdam's 1967 disappearance. Host Dawn recounts journalist Frank Ryan's efforts to keep the case alive, including his collaboration with Dutch clairvoyant Gerard Croiset. Despite Gerard’s detailed visions, no concrete evidence was found. The episode also covers the discovery of an unidentified woman's body near where Pat was last seen, and touches on the broader issue of missing persons in Scotland. Dawn examines the impact of psychic detectives on cold cases and the public's perception of clairvoyance. The narrative sets up for the next episode, which will introduce a potential suspect in Pat's case.

Unmasking a Monster: Thomas Young's Decades of Depravity Part 3 - Trigger Warning: This episode covers the topic of rape and domestic abuse, so listener discretion is advised.
This episode of Scottish Murders focuses on Thomas Ross Young, a serial rapist and murderer active in Scotland during the 1960s and 70s. Dawn recounts Thomas’ troubled childhood, his violent marriage, and his escalating criminal behaviour. As a long-distance lorry driver, Thomas preyed on women across the UK, culminating in his conviction for the murder of Frances Barker. The episode also explores Thomas’ potential connection to other unsolved cases, including Pat McAdam's disappearance.

Pat McAdam: When Legal Hurdles Obstruct Cold Case Justice Part 4 - This episode covers the final developments in Pat McAdam's disappearance case. It details the 2004 breakthrough leading to Thomas Ross Young's arrest, subsequent legal challenges, and the ultimate decision not to indict him. It explores the impact of the Angus Sinclair trial on historical cases and discusses the frustrations of Pat's family. It also examines the controversy surrounding psychic involvement in the case and questions the ethics of labelling Pat McAdam’s disappearance as a "classic" psychic case. It concludes by reflecting on the case's unresolved nature, 58 years after Pat's disappearance.

Scotland Then: From Clay Traps to Classroom Gaps: A Snapshot of 1967 Scotland - This episode of Scotland Then explores newspaper stories from March 1967, focusing on the time around Pat McAdam's disappearance. It covers a range of events, including a man trapped in clay for eight hours, a nuclear emergency false alarm, child abuse cases, and education challenges in Glasgow. Dawn also shares TV programming from the era, featuring shows like Coronation Street and Tomorrow's World. The episode concludes with a word challenge for listeners, asking them to list as many words beginning with 'A' as possible in 10 minutes, promising a shoutout for the winner in a future episode.

Dawn and Marti from Mums, Mysteries and Murder podcast, did their first ever live podcast recording at Airdrie Library for the Killers and Coffee event.

Part1 - They discuss the unsolved 1981 murder of Aileen Printie in Edinburgh. They explore the case details, including the mysterious ice bucket, cufflink evidence, and the controversial identification of a 16-year-old suspect who later died by suicide. They also analyse the police investigation's shortcomings, questioning the lack of DNA evidence and the hasty closure of the case. They debate the ethics of naming suspects without charges and the impact on both families involved. The episode highlights the limitations of 1980s forensics and the frustration of unresolved cases, leaving listeners to ponder the true identity of Aileen's killer.

Part2 - This episode continues to explore the unsolved murder of Aileen Printie in 1981 in Edinburgh. Dawn and Marti examine the puzzling details of the case, including a mysterious cufflink, an ice bucket, and conflicting evidence. They discuss various theories and the police's handling of the investigation, which led to a controversial conclusion years later. The episode also highlights the limitations of forensic technology at the time and raises questions about the justice system's approach to cold cases. Throughout, the hosts engage in lively debate, offering insights and speculations that keep listeners intrigued by this baffling crime.

Scotland Then - This episode of Scotland Then explores newspaper stories from August and September 1981, focusing on events around the time of Aileen Printie’s murder.
Dawn shares a vivid article about the Edinburgh Fringe, discusses a forensic scientist's discredited evidence leading to a wrongful conviction, and recounts a tragic case of a young girl's death during routine medical tests.
The episode also covers a murder trial with an unexpected appeal outcome and a mountain rescue false alarm. Through these stories, listeners are transported to early 1980s Scotland, gaining insight into the era's cultural events, legal proceedings, and everyday life.