Episodes

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode covers the topic of rape, so listener discretion is advised. 

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

Part two 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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

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 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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

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.

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

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.

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

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.

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.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

This episode explores the 1970 murder of George Nixon Martin, a Dundee taxi driver. It recounts the events leading to his death, the swift capture of his teenage killers, and the shocking trial revelations. It uncovers potential occult motivations, diminished responsibility claims, and the impact on Martin’s family. It also touches on the narrow escape of another taxi driver and the community’s response to the tragedy. The detailed narrative by host, Dawn, paints a vivid picture of this seemingly motiveless crime, offering listeners a glimpse into a dark chapter of Scottish criminal history.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

This episode of Scotland Then explores various news stories from 1970, including a clairvoyant’s involvement in a missing person case, rising hooliganism in St. Andrews, and several criminal cases resulting in prison sentences.
We examine the disappearance of Pat McAdam, discuss street violence and vandalism that led to the suspension of town hall dances, and recount notable crimes such as home invasions and assaults. 
The episode also covers an intriguing car theft incident and concludes with population statistics for Scotland in 1969. Throughout, Dawn provides historical context and personal reflections, offering listeners a glimpse into Scottish society and crime in the early 1970s.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

This week we examine the tragic murder of Elizabeth Campbell in 1932 in Glasgow, and the investigation that led to the arrest of two young men. The episode also looks at the trial, including witness testimonies and the public petition for clemency, and brings to life the complexities of the case, providing listeners with a compelling insight of a lesser-known Scottish murder.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

In this episode of Scotland Then, we highlight newspaper stories from The Scotsman from 1932, covers various tragic events, accidents, and murders. Notable stories include the fate of Betty Gow, the Scottish nanny in the Lindbergh case, and the murder trial of George Dollin.

The episode concludes by previewing upcoming episodes, including the murder of Elizabeth Campbell in 1932 and the unsolved/solved? case of Aileen Printie in 1981

Listeners are also introduced to Mike from the Murder Mile UK True Crime podcast

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

This special episode takes listeners behind the scenes at CrimeCon UK and the True Crime Awards.

Listeners are treated to snippets of live sessions, personal reflections from podcasters, guests and organisers, offering a glimpse into the vibrant true crime community. This episode captures the excitement and camaraderie of the events, and showcases the diverse range of voices and perspectives that make up the true crime landscape.

We can’t wait to attend CrimeCon in Manchester on 27th September 2025. You can get your tickets now at CrimeCon, and don’t forget to use the code ‘SCOTTISH’ for a discount.

Don’t miss out! Watch now on YouTube

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

This episode of Scottish Murders explores the harrowing case of 16-year-old Diane Graham, tragically murdered in Dundee in 1971. The host scrutinises the contrasting narratives between the Law Killers book and period newspaper reports, questioning the detective’s unexpected empathy for the killer. Listeners are taken through Diane’s life, her last night out, and the swift arrest of her murderer. The episode reveals chilling details of the crime and its devastating impact on Diane’s family, including her mother’s untimely death. This episode challenges perceptions of media portrayal and compassion in criminal cases, leaving listeners to ponder the complexities of justice and empathy.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

Scotland Then 1971: Dundee’s Dark Days

This episode of Scotland Then explores historical events from 1971, focusing on crimes in Dundee and Glasgow. The episode covers unsolved murders, including James Keltie’s case, and violent incidents involving children. It highlights a series of deaths in Dundee, detailing specific cases and their outcomes. The podcast also touches on lighter topics, like the “Ice Cream Bandit” story. 

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

The Chinese Community’s Wall of Secrecy: The Brutal Murder of Philip Wong

This episode of Scottish Murders explores the unresolved 1985 murder of Kwong ‘Philip’ Wong, a prominent Chinese businessman in Glasgow. It explores the rise of triad gangs in Scotland during the 1970s-80s and their impact on the Chinese community. It explores Philip’s rise as a respected community leader, his involvement in exposing extortion schemes, and relationship with triad groups, and the brutal attack that ended his life.

It examines various theories behind the murder, including triad rivalries and business disputes, while highlighting the challenges faced by investigators due to a wall of silence within the Chinese community. The episode also touches on the broader impact of triad activities in Scotland and the ongoing efforts to solve this decades-old unresolved case.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

Scotland Then: From Stripteases to Stabbings

In this “Scotland Then” episode we explore historical events from October 1985. We cover diverse stories, including a Yorkshire visitor’s misadventures in Oban, a tragic fatal accident due to a misplaced breathing tube, a fatal wedding day altercation, two murders involving young perpetrators, and a museum T-shirt design competition.
The episode highlights the challenges of finding complete information on historical events, and encourages listener engagement regarding the T-shirt competition outcome.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

Part 1:

The Unsolved Murder of George Murdoch Revisited: A Family’s Quest for Justice

In this special update episode of Scottish Murders, host Dawn revisits the unsolved 1983 murder of Aberdeen taxi driver George Murdoch, exploring the family’s relentless quest for justice. Dawn speaks with George’s nephew Alex and his wife Robina, who have worked tirelessly to keep the case in the public eye and their efforts in doing this are discussed, including media campaigns, TV appearances and collaborations with the police. The episode highlights significant developments, such as the 2015 lead involving a man wearing an Iron Maiden t-shirt, the release of a key photo in 2023, and the impact of a former prisoner’s perspective on the case. Dawn also speaks with Ryan, host of Who is the Cheesewire Killer, who shares insights from his conversations with Alex, Robina and George’s neighbour at the time of his murder, a 13 year old boy who saw George as a grandfather figure. Theories about the killer’s potential profile and motivations are explored, new perspectives are discussed, and myths about the case are debunked.

This episode is a heartfelt call for anyone with information to come forward and help solve this decades-old mystery.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

Part 2:

The Unsolved Murder of George Murdoch Revisited: A Family’s 40-Year Search for Answers – Part2

This episode revisits the unsolved 1983 murder of Aberdeen taxi driver George Murdoch. It covers recent developments including DNA evidence, familial DNA testing, and rewards. George’s nephew, Alex, and Alex’s wife, Robina, discuss their ongoing campaign to find the killer, including tips received through social media. The podcast explores theories about the murderer’s profile and motivations. It emphasises the impact on George’s wife Jessie and appeals for anyone with information to come forward, even anonymously, stressing that every lead is taken seriously in the hope of finally solving this over 40-year-old cold case.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.