Malevolent Mormon Mommys | The Case Against Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

On the chilling podcast Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski and Bob Motta delve into the disturbing case of Ruby Frankie, a mother sentenced to prison for shocking acts of abuse against her children. In this episode, they explore the question of whether convicted cult leader and self-help guru Jodi Hildebrandt may have played a role in the horrific abuse Ruby inflicted.
“I mean, how do you unlearn something like that? Once you go so far down the road, why now are you seeing the errors in your ways?” – Tony Brueski
Defense attorney Bob Motta weighs in, offering his legal perspective on the case: *“I don’t think prison rehabilitates, but people can be rehabilitated in prison. They have resources, but they don’t force you to take them...” *
The hosts debate whether Ruby was truly a victim of manipulation or whether she holds ultimate responsibility for the crimes she committed. Brueski and Motta consider the psychological damage inflicted by those like Jodi Hildebrandt, drawing on the real-life experiences of individuals who escaped her control.
*“Do I think that Ruby will come out in 20 or 30 years, whenever she’s going to get out, and become an abusive monster again? No…I think she’s feeling the full weight of it right now.” * – Bob Motta
In a case filled with darkness, Hidden Killers seeks to understand how the path to abuse is forged. Was Ruby always capable of this, or is there more to the story? Did desperation make her susceptible to influence by an evil outsider? Does a chance of redemption exist in the aftermath of such horrific crimes?
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Why does the LDS Church seem like fertile ground for extremist groups preaching distorted beliefs, leading to horrific outcomes like child abuse?
On this episode of "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski and former defense attorney Lori Hellis delve into the alarming pattern of "doomsday" groups emerging from within the LDS Church. Lori emphasizes the cultural insularity that contributes to the vulnerability of some members when confronted with charismatic leaders and distorted interpretations of doctrine.
They discuss how seemingly normal, everyday people can be susceptible: "If the mainstream doctrine is 12 o'clock, the doctrines that the doomsday folks are embracing are really about 12:01." Lori's insights from her work on the Lori Vallow case further illuminate the chilling mindset of parents who justify abuse as preparing their children for the apocalypse.
The conversation also touches on the potential for a major schism within the LDS Church, as a conservative faction seeks to return to a more fundamentalist version of Joseph Smith's teachings.
Closing Question: How can we understand the risks within close-knit religious communities, and prevent future tragedies fueled by extremist ideology?
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Is a convincing apology enough to earn early release? Could convicted child abusers Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt manipulate their way out of prison?
On this episode of "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski and psychotherapist Shavaun Scott dissect the sentencing of Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt. Sentenced to four to sixty years for their horrific abuse, their ultimate fate rests in the hands of the parole board.
Shavaun analyzes Ruby Frankie's courtroom statement, calling it a "coached response" aimed at manipulating the system. Tony questions if parole boards are easily swayed by such performances, or if genuine remorse can be faked.
The discussion then turns to Jody Hildebrandt's claim that she "sincerely loved these children," a statement Shavaun links to the narcissistic tendencies often found in cult leaders.
With the possibility of release looming, the podcast delves into the chilling question of whether these women pose a continued threat to the public. Could they resurface under new identities, preying on the vulnerable once again?
Closing Question: How do we protect ourselves and our communities from those who mask their monstrous behavior behind a facade of love and concern?
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Were they both guilty, or was one truly the mastermind? Retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke joins host Tony Brueski to weigh in on the shocking case of Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt. After a Utah judge ruled both women receive 15-year consecutive sentences for their horrific abuse of children, complex questions linger.
Was Franke vulnerable, easily manipulated, and truly capable of rehabilitation? Dreeke unpacks the possibility of religious extremism contributing to Frankie's crimes. How did this family become so broken, and was this harsh punishment justified?
Hildebrandt, the charismatic counselor, faces the same sentence. Did she truly care about the children she abused, or were her claims of love all part of her act? Dreeke analyzes Hildebrandt's courtroom conduct and whether her lack of remorse signals a dangerous sociopath.
This fascinating case raises serious questions about accountability, manipulation, and potential for change. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In a chilling revelation of the fractured dynamics within the Franke family, Chad Franke, the eldest son of disgraced YouTube personality Ruby Franke, expressed his delight at her imprisonment for child abuse. The 19-year-old's unbridled joy was captured in a now-deleted TikTok video, shared by his girlfriend, just days before Ruby and her former business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, were sentenced for the harrowing torture endured by Ruby's six children.
The sentencing, meted out by a judge, mandated the terms of their plea agreement – four counts of one to 15 years, served consecutively, leading to a maximum sentence of 30 years due to Utah law. Despite the severity of her sentence, Ruby, aged 42, has chosen not to appeal her imprisonment, signaling a somber acceptance of her fate.
Chad's apparent elation was palpable as he exited the courthouse following his estranged mother's sentencing. Ruby, in a poignant moment during the hearing, emotionally addressed her children, apologizing for the anguish she caused them. "I will never stop crying for hurting your tender souls. You’re so precious to me. I’m sorry," she expressed tearfully, acknowledging the deep pain inflicted upon her offspring.
Prior to her arrest in August 2023, Ruby had been estranged from Chad and her eldest daughter, Shari, as a result of the abuse they endured. Concerns about the Franke children first arose after unsettling content surfaced in the family's YouTube videos, prompting a visit from Child Protective Services. Despite the visit, authorities closed the case, much to the dismay of concerned onlookers.
Shari, Ruby's 20-year-old daughter, expressed relief at her mother's incarceration, underscoring the family's long-standing struggle for justice. Ruby's four minor children remain under state care, while her estranged husband seeks guardianship over their 16-year-old daughter, Abby.
In a startling admission, Ruby, who had vehemently denied allegations of abuse, confessed to torturing her children in her plea agreement. Details of the plea painted a grim picture of the abuse endured by her offspring, including suffocation, physical restraints, and other forms of torment.
As the Franke family grapples with the aftermath of Ruby's conviction and imprisonment, the harrowing saga sheds light on the enduring trauma inflicted by domestic abuse and the quest for justice in its wake. Amidst the somber proceedings, Chad's celebratory response serves as a stark reminder of the profound wounds left by familial betrayal and the long road to healing ahead.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In this riveting episode of "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski is joined by the insightful Bob Motta, a defense attorney and the host of "Defense Diaries," to dissect the complex and emotionally charged case of Ruby Frankie and Jodi Hildebrandt. Charged with the abuse of Frankie's children, both women have been sentenced to one to 15 years in prison for their heinous acts, with four consecutive sentences each. This episode promises to unravel the layers of this tragic story, providing a nuanced understanding of the legal and emotional aspects of the case.
Motta, with his legal expertise, offers a critical perspective on the sentencing, discussing the broad range of potential years the accused could serve and the role of parole boards in determining the final sentence length. He questions the sincerity of the apologies issued by Frankie and Hildebrandt, emphasizing the lack of humanity and remorse shown during the abuse. Motta and Brueski delve into the severity of the sentence, arguing that such a harsh penalty is fitting for the grave nature of the abuse committed.
The episode also explores the wider implications of the case, considering the psychological and physical damage inflicted on the children and the lasting impact of such trauma. They discuss the possibility of rehabilitation for the accused and the legal system's role in ensuring justice is served while addressing the needs of the victims.
Additionally, the podcast touches on the intriguing aspect of Kevin Franke, Ruby's husband, and his potential accountability in the case. Motta weighs in on the complexities surrounding Franke's involvement, or lack thereof, in the abuse, and whether his actions, or inactions, could be deemed complicit.
Listeners can expect a deep and thoughtful exploration of this harrowing case, guided by Brueski's probing questions and Motta's legal acumen. This episode of "Hidden Killers" is a must-listen for those interested in criminal law, child welfare, and the intricacies of high-profile abuse cases.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Is Ruby Frankie a calculating monster, or a victim of the same distorted beliefs that fueled her crimes?
On this episode of "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski and former defense attorney Lori Hellis analyze the sentencing of "Mormon mommy blogger" Ruby Frankie. She and her accomplice, Jody Hildebrandt, face a wide range of possible prison time (four to 60 years) with the decision ultimately resting with the parole board.
Lori shares her prediction, noting that Hildebrandt, as a former therapist, likely bears greater responsibility in the eyes of the public. They debate whether Ruby, as the mother, is in some ways more culpable for the horrific abuse of her own children than the outside influence of Hildebrandt.
Lori's recent work on the Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell case offers chilling context. She highlights how Ruby's paranoia about hospitals and law enforcement aligns with deeply held beliefs among certain fringe groups within the LDS Church.
Closing Question: To what extent should Ruby Frankie's susceptibility to "doomsday prophecy" beliefs mitigate the severity of her crimes?
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt finally sentenced – but was it enough?
After shocking the world with their horrific child abuse, Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt have been handed prison sentences of up to 60 years each. But is this justice for their crimes? On this episode of Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski brings in retired FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer to dissect the sentencing and the lingering questions the case raises.
“I was happy to see the 60-year exposure...both of these were sentenced to the same sentence. Do you think that was fair?” Brueski probes.
Coffindaffer raises a crucial point: as the children's mother, did Ruby deserve even harsher punishment than her co-conspirator, Jody? The discussion explores the chilling dynamic between abuser and abused, questioning both women's roles in the horrific crimes.
The hosts analyze the apologies made in court. Was Ruby truly remorseful when she said, "I am committed to unlearning my toxic behavior"? Can such monstrous behavior ever truly be unlearned, or are they both capable of repeating these horrors?
"She’s capable of this and much more... I think he should be held responsible to a degree as well," Coffindaffer remarks regarding Kevin, Ruby's husband. Might he also be culpable?
The episode delves into chilling details from the Eight Passengers videos and police interactions, highlighting the pattern of abuse that likely escalated behind closed doors.
Were Ruby and Jody stopped only because they got caught? Would they still be abusing these children if not for the intervention?
Join this haunting discussion on Hidden Killers and grapple with the uncomfortable questions this disturbing case raises.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com