Bear Brook

by NHPR
14,079

Bear Brook, hosted by Jason Moon, is the critically-acclaimed true crime podcast from New Hampshire Public Radio. Season 1 - Two barrels. Four Bodies. And a cold case that’s changing how murders will be investigated forever.Season 2: A True Crime Story - Jason Carroll is serving life in prison for a murder he says he didn’t commit. The only evidence against him? His own taped confession. More than 30 years later, is it possible to get to the truth – and who gets to tell it?Stephen King called both seasons “the best true crime podcasts I've ever heard. Brilliant, involving, hypnotic.” The New Yorker said season one “stands out for its ambition, complexity, and thoughtful tone.”

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Recent Reviews
  • Business Major College Student
    Outstanding in every way!
    Jason Moon did a phenomenal job telling such a complex and convoluted story. More than telling the story, this team investigated this case with dignity and compassion for the victims at the forefront. You become emotionally involved along with the presenter as the tale unfolds. As devastating as this story is, I have a new found faith in humanity, learning about all the extremely hard work and tenacity of so many amazing and dedicated individuals. Well done! I pray one day that another episode will be made with updates for the last precious child.
  • NoahTheBoss#1
    Listened to in class
    Recently we listened to this in class and it is very well put together. Ive never been so invested in something and its very well made
  • C:::J
    Interesting
    Very interesting podcast. Well done and well edited.
  • Andy (Not an Imposter)
    so, SOOO, many twists
    This podcast has a lot of twists, and sometimes there’s a transition to another idea or case that ties back to the case in ways you’d NEVER imagine. 10/10, 5/5 stars.
  • Inpursuitofglam
    Amazing Podcast
    Captured so many emotions. Every time I hear the mothers taped part I just bawl my eyes. How could she hang her son out to dry. She was a cop and she knew better. She knew cops cant make promises. And yet she chose not only not to protect him but sell him like a lamb to the slaughter. I would never speak to her again if I were Jason. She doesn’t deserve the right to be called a mother even after all these years. Like I said SHE LNEW BETTER! My heart aches listening to it everytime. I am disgusted. This. Podcast is so well done. I think its important for all of us to hear trials like this so we know what to look for if we ever get called for jury duty.
  • honeyloveforyoy
    My First Podcast
    I had never heard of these murders and a friend just told me about it. The story popped up in my feed and I was curious. It exceeded my expectations. Fascinating story, well edited and executed.
  • Mermaid0340
    Bear Brook 2 - Thorough Right Down to the Music
    At this point in writing I have one more episode to go. Jason’s music is as thoughtful and compelling as the case itself. I’ve chosen to write now because I am so concerned about the almost separate story of the evidence box. I now need the whole chronology of that box, and how/why it was considered such a “fluke” that it existed and was found. Why wasn’t it foremost in the minds of all of Jason’s lawyers from Day One? Were they lied to re: its existence? I look forward to more answers in next episode. Let my concern testify how enthralling this podcast is—the inexplicable coincidence of amazing timing. My real question being WHY was that box such a lost mystery in the first place? Even if it’s simple neglect, back when DNA testing was not as crucial as now, why would that not have been pursued by Jason’s lawyers immediately. They knew it had to exist. They could have gone straight to forensics, right? Where was the glitch in this whole process that could possibly have saved years/decades in furthering Jason’s case?
  • Whitjanae
    1st real podcast
    This was the first real podcast I have dove into. I loved every detail. Jason’s description was great
  • B. Gandy
    One of the best TC podcasts I’ve listened to!
    I don’t normally leave reviews, but this podcast has kept me thoroughly engaged through both seasons so I felt it was warranted to give it 5 stars. Keep up the great work, Jason!
  • Busy mom Tina
    Very well done!
    Engaging and lots of wow moments!
  • Kallie!
    Addictive!
    This had me hooked! Jason tells a great story, weaving it in and out of the people and places he introduces. Really masterful.
  • Hulakitty72
    Season 2 , Eisode 4
    Listening to this made me ill- seriously. This young man’s life was ruined by the very people who gave him life. The Detective needs to be put in jail and/or punished for his repeated and reckless attempts to ensure he kept this young man in prison. Allow people to do their time, but this type of manipulation is sickening. Can’t forget the mother working overtime to help him.
  • Read the fine print9383848848
    Painfully slow
    I put it on 1.5 speed and he still speaks so slow.
  • NickBailey115
    Not worth your time!!!
    No outcome and the whole podcast is basically just how you should hate cops and believe inmates. Garbage
  • Anthony Mazzorana
    Excellent
    Enthralling
  • DrJAF
    Crossing Fingers for Another Season
    Informative without being offensive or opinionated. The narrative is articulated well. There seems to be a good balance between facts of the crime and emotions of the individuals interviewed. I hope he brings another story to light on this channel.
  • SueB117
    Would be better without the music
    The reporting is fine and well done; the music is not good and is very intrusive
  • El jlglke
    World’s worst mother
    Why so many insurrectionists in these reviews?
  • Teon77
    Superb Narration I am hooked
    Excellent, Professional fast paced, interesting and extremely well narrated. Listen you will be glad you did.
  • Odete418
    Less ads
    This deserves a 5 star if only there were less add interruptions
  • lighthousenh
    Emelia’s thing
    She doesn’t need to be a police officer if she can’t handle a riot. “People got hurt” , ok what about Ashley Babbit? There was a protest because they were fighting for our democracy. This is a weak, cry baby episode.
  • Christopher Carbone
    A frustrating experience
    This is a decent show, and as a podcast, it could be so much more of a note worthy experience if it wasn’t for the absolute bombardment of filler material peppered heavily throughout the actual show content. Each episode is about 45 minutes long, but the actual content of the story only makes up about 70% of that time. I can’t even listen to it without a hand free so that I can quickly skip through the regularly scheduled garbage. The show starts right off the bat with 120 seconds of commercials. This is followed by another 120 seconds of recap. Then, the actual episode begin begins. You might get a solid 10 minutes of story before you hit with another 180 seconds of commercials. Then maybe another 10 minutes of show, and another 180 seconds of commercials until the show finally ends with the creator credits and another 180 seconds of commercials. And if you’re anything like me, you might listen to several shows in one sitting. Being that each show is book ended with about five minutes of filler content, between shows you’ve got a good 10 solid minutes of stuff you’ve got to skip through. It really ruins the experience. It almost makes me wanna download every single episode. Put it into an audio editing program and cut out all the garbage so I can listen to it straight through .
  • Danermal
    Excellent
    Both seasons are excellent Second season is a bit confounding for a few episodes - the unfolding is worth it though, the confoundedness is intentional -trust the process.
  • GirlOH
    Different Seasons
    The first season was incredible and fascinating. The second season is plodding and not convincing. Also Brian Sicknick didn’t have CPR performed on him at the Capitol so why did the reporter not correct the information?
  • ShezGhez
    Great show until it decided to get political
    I don’t understand why you had to “go there” with a January 6th narrative. Where were you during the Antifa riots when they were literally BURNING DOWN cities?? You’ve lost me.
  • Kaykp
    Loved it!
    I just binged the entire series in one day. Wow! The in depth reporting, explanations of the science, interviews etc. make it most comprehensive crime pod I’ve ever listened to. Great writing, great vocals and delivery. And the effort to stay neutral. Outstanding!
  • Jeanieeous
    Compelling Storytelling
    I’m up to episode 5 of Season 1 and just had to remark on Jason Moon’s delivery of this twisted tale. He or whomever is doing the writing is making what would be a story too tough to stick with instead, a path you’re called to follow… The production team is a gift. The weave of time & place to reorient the listener is a clear guide. The theme & transitional music is a rich tapestry and not intrusive - scenes open & close with gentle accompaniment. I’m hooked! & Look forward to learning how this all comes together.
  • Bethis2cute
    Garbage
    Not interested in uninformed leftist biased propaganda podcasting. We deal with it enough in the media.
  • Jana1469
    One star review for s2E11 specifically
    I could go on for an hour here. Telling you just how I’ve suffered and ignorant the reporter Lauren is. Deaths? They shot one Patriot who wasn’t doing anything. Talk to Pelosi as to why 1/6 happened. Open your mind and look around. How ugly your episode was Lauren. Gross.
  • Bfry86
    Had me until politics
    Great series until it went so political. Unfollowing Indefinitely.
  • Ya don’t say
    Don’t pass by…
    I cannot say enough how great Jason and this podcast is. I spend all day alone driving equipment and I look forward to each day to hear more of what Jason has to say. In depth information made so entertaining makes for a must listen to show.
  • daughterofolaf
    Five stars for season 1
    I have only listened to the first season so that is what my review is based on. This is the first true crime podcast I have listened to that did not needlessly draw out the story into too many episodes. The narrator has a pleasant voice and demeanor. The story was laid out clearly and was easy to follow despite the fact that it is quite complicated. Recommended!
  • sportyspice11
    Too much music
    I wanted to like this season, but there’s way too much competing background music. I don’t recall that issue with Season 1.
  • Tatortothead0000
    Amazing
    Just started listening to podcast. Was searching for true crime tried a few but this one got me hooked. I’ve been bingeing season 2 so far and love it. Will have to listen to season 1 after and I’m sure it will not disappoint.
  • Stingbee23
    R-O-X-A-N-N-E G-R-O-E-N-H-E-I-D-E
    Gripping story and I love Roxanne Groenheide’s tenacity.
  • NNF4AU02
    Addicting! So so good
    Have been desperately trying to find an awesome true story series like S* Town and this one was just what I needed. Binged on it for about 2 days 😂😂👏👏😍
  • RMCaligirl
    Excellent Piece of Journalism
    Jason does an excellent job in investigating and creating a comprehensive report on the story. He has a really great voice to listen to. His information is understandable and solid. He has a sensitive and relatable interviewing style. I truly enjoyed listening to the story and hope there will be more updates soon
  • 4kids2cats1dog
    Excellent.
    Hope the truth comes out and DNA gives some insight into this horrible crime.
  • nataliejnicholas86
    Must listen!
    I loved both seasons!! So well made and the stories well told.
  • MagoBean
    Worth a listen
    Just found Bear Brook and had to binge all of season 1. Such a heart breaking story yet I find myself in awe with all those who worked so hard to solve pieces of the case. One thing I can’t stop thinking is that “grass mushrooms” sounds an awful lot like “Rasmussen.” Like something small child might mishear or mispronounce.
  • stabbymomma
    Love the content, the music is almost a dealbreaker.
    The content is amazing, the music is painful, especially when wearing headphones.
  • zinnowinno
    Meh
    Season 1 was phenomenal. One of my top 5. While I love the storytelling and style of the podcast, I have yet to hear any actual evidence of Jason’s innocence. Yes, the mom was a bully, but what else is there that casts doubt on his involvement? I’m surprised this case was chosen by innocence project. Disappointing actually.
  • Gen2483
    Poorly constructed podcast
    Season 2 gives zero compelling arguments or evidence as to why Jason could be innocent; only hypotheticals on how he could falsely confess and comparisons to completely unrelated cases. I’ve never listened to such a lengthy podcast with so little concrete information and investigative research.
  • Ajbuda
    Six episodes in, and season 2 seems pointless
    I really hope there is something else besides what they are try to call bullying. Mom was involved. Years into being a cop. Knows how this stuff works, but just forgets when it is her kid? Step dad on tape clearly and calmly admitting that he believes he did it. I truly hope there is something else besides a what has been shown so far. Otherwise shame on him for trying to drag this up for the victims.
  • AngelaFromCA
    I’m hooked
    Just found Bear Brook and I’m hooked. So interesting and well told.
  • Kayte82
    Well done
    Excellent podcast. My arguement to how they missed they missed the first barrel is that in 1985 they didn’t have the resources they do now.
  • Y.t.09870987
    Old White Men with a badge at it again
    This is an amazing podcast, season one is great , sad and heartbreaking. Season 2 ( I am on episode 3 )is sooo maddening and makes me wonder how is detective Kojac wannabe free to roam around , this is infuriating; also why the interrogation of suspects doesn’t have a advocate for the suspect? A travesty of justice for this young mum , when a egotistical detective thinks he can lead and make up stories without qualms and no concern for consequences! Arghhh!!!!. P.S. Jason’s mom was out of control and not on her sons side at all. As a police officer she should have asked for evidence and demand that they test everything , she did so much harm , is like she wanted to keep living her life her life with the stepfather and just keep Jason at a distance from them. What shame .
  • Roman 1872
    Excellent Show
    Very well done show, Jason’s storytelling is fantastic, story itself very captivating, give it a shot!
  • Willard111114523
    Amazing
    Season one as so good and I can’t wait to listen to season two.
  • Yaterzz1978
    What?
    I loved Season 1 but I was floored by the obvious guilt of Jason in Season 2. I’m usually all in when it comes to the defense of the wrongfully accused but I struggled to find any solid evidence that this man DIDNT kill that woman! Yes the cops were corrupt. Yes the parents were duped and stupid. And yes, Jason was a scared 19 year old kid who was overwhelmed and afraid. But in this particular case, it did not mean he didn’t participate in that woman’s death. I’m surprised the New Hampshire Innocence Project even agreed to represent this case because not only does it give false hope to the accused and more sorrow for the victims family, it also cast unnecessary doubt on other Innocent Projects and their clients all over the country. Not a good look for the producers of Bearbrook.
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