The podcast Crime Junkie, hosted by Brit Prawat and Ashley Flowers, replicates the excitement of being a kid around a crackling campfire, captivated by chilling tales on the first night of camp.
With clarity, compassion and emotion, the true crime podcast from Indiana, Indianapolis, that first launched in 2017, guides listeners through a wide range of both solved and unsolved true crime cases.
The show creates an immersive and unforgettable experience.The weekly episodes are 30 to 60 minutes long and explore topics such as missing persons cases, unsolved murders, serial killers and both high-profile and lesser-known crimes.
Produced by the audiochuck network, which was also founded by one of the hosts, Ashley Flowers, Crime Junkie became one of the top podcasts on Apple in 2024 and is available on a variety of streaming platforms.
Crime Junkie is connected to the non-profit organization, Season of Justice, also founded by Prawat and Flowers. The non-profit has raised over a million dollars in grants to fund over 175 forensic DNA cases to help solve cold cases.
While the podcast focuses on victim advocacy rather than glorifying killers, which is a refreshing shift, the distinctive storytelling style truly sets Crime Junkie apart from the numerous true crime podcasts out there.
Flowers takes on the role of the storyteller, guiding the narrative with a voice that builds suspense while staying grounded in empathy and respect, never sensationalizing or exploiting the victims or their families.
Prawat, on the other hand, acts as a stand-in for the audience, and reacts authentically by asking the kinds of insightful questions that make one wonder if she also works as a mind reader.
With her background working for a private investigator, Prawat’s curiosity deepens each episode’s story without overshadowing it. The dynamic between Prawat and Flowers creates a natural rhythm that draws listeners in and carries them through each case with care and emotional clarity.
A key purpose of the podcast is advocacy for victims.
In 2018, an episode titled, “EXPERT ON: Domestic Violence,” had an expert share warning signs, advice and a personal anecdote.
A “survived” series was also created to give the victims of a traumatic incident space to discuss how they survived traumatic events. This series also highlighs individuals who cannot make it to the podcast, but still deserve space for their stories, told by the hosts.
Each episode of Crime Junkie highlights ways to advocate for meaningful change.
This is a powerful reminder that standing together and speaking up can help push for stronger safety measures. Listeners of the podcast learn about ways to protect themselves and this, arguably, makes a lasting impact.
Crime Junkie can fill the listener with a variety of emotions but regret is not one of them. Time spent listening to this story will never be regretful and could have a lasting impact.
Now is the time to click off this article and click onto the latest episode of Crime Junkie.