Episodes

  • COJ #89: The Biggest Mystery in the Stephen Smith Investigation, Dick’s Last Hurrah with Alex Murdaugh + the Blood on Tennesse’s Hands in the Lauren Johansen Case
    Jul 16 2024
    Last week marked the ninth anniversary of Stephen Smith’s death. Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — talk about Mandy and Liz’s latest reporting in the case and the biggest mystery that exists in the original investigation. Also on the show, Mandy is dismissed from the frivolous defamation case filed against her by a former University of South Carolina professor, who was accused in multiple sexual harassment cases. Plus, why Alex Murdaugh’s latest filing to the South Carolina Supreme Court is likely to go nowhere. And we talk about the Lauren Johansen case out of Tennessee and how utterly preventable her murder was. Premium Members get an extended discussion about the disturbing thing that happened to Eric on his birthday and whether it’s worth fighting back against people determined to make you miserable. Premium Members also get access to episode videos, case files, live trial coverage and exclusive live experiences with our hosts. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. And for those just wanting ad-free listening without all the other great content, we now offer ad-free listening on Apple Podcast through a subscription to Luna Shark Plus on the Apple Podcasts App. And we also offer access to exclusive video content through our new YouTube Premiere subscription. Let's get into it... EPISODE RESOURCES: Mandy's Defamation Lawsuit Filed by a Former USC Professor Mandy's Defamation Lawsuit Dismissed with Prejudice. Murdaugh Federal Appeal Jack Swirling's Latest Mistrial Since it's Prime Day here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn Check out Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ What We're Buying... Lumen - https://www.lumen.me/coj for 15% off your purchase. Your metabolic health, in your hands. Understand your unique metabolism, promote fat burn, lose weight, and boost energy naturally. CBDistillery - https://cbdistillery.com with code “COJ” for 20% off. No fluff. No fillers. Just pure, effective cannabinoid products. Over 43,000 Verified Reviews. 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee. Free Shipping Over $75. Subscribe & Save Up To 30% Sono Bello - https://sonobello.com/summer - #1 Specialist based on the most locations nationwide and largest group of practicing board-certified doctors. **Summer Savings Offer valid for a limited time. Find us on social media: Twitter.com/mandymatney - Twitter.com/elizfarrell - Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube Check out our new Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** *The views expressed on the Cup of Justice bonus episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Listen Now: American Scandal: Teapot Dome
    Jul 9 2024
    Every scandal begins with a lie. But the truth will come out. And then comes the fallout and the outrage. Scandals have shaped America since its founding. From business and politics to sports and society, we look on aghast as corruption, deceit and ambition bring down heroes and celebrities, politicians and moguls. And when the dust finally settles, we’re left to wonder: how did this happen? Where did they trip up, and who is to blame? From the creators of American History Tellers, Business Wars and Tides of History comes American Scandal, where we take you deep into the heart of America’s dark side to look at what drives someone to break the rules and what happens when they’re caught. Hosted by Lindsay Graham. Listen now: Wondery.fm/AS-CoJ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    6 mins
  • COJ #88 - Is Dick Harpootlian Being Humble (For Once)? + The Effort to Make No-Fault Divorces Illegal
    Jul 2 2024
    Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — listened to Dick Harpootlian’s (ridiculously long) farewell speech in the South Carolina Senate and needless to say, they have some thoughts on it. Especially when it comes to Dick’s tone-deaf defense of his own behavior defending Alex Murdaugh. Also on the show, several lawmakers around the country are seriously considering introducing legislation to end no-fault divorces. Mandy, Liz and Eric discuss the possible impacts that could come from that, along with how women like Mica Francis deserve BETTER divorce laws, not worse ones. Our hosts also emphasized the importance of objectivity, fairness, and respect in their respective fields, as well as the need to protect women's rights and autonomy. Premium Members get an extended discussion on Dick Harpootlian’s final words in the Senate, plus a conversation about a recent opinion piece that ran in Newsweek, calling Taylor Swift a bad role model for women and girls. Let's get into it... EPISODE RESOURCES: Dick Harpootlian Winking at Liz Dick Harpootlian Farewell Speech on SC Senate Floor Duluth Model Power and Control Wheel The Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Honour Based Violence (DASH 2009-2024) Risk Identification, Assessment and Management Model What We're Buying... Chilipad Cube Bed Cooling System - Cooling & Heating Mattress Topper Elegear Revolutionary Cooling Comforter King Absorbs Body Heat to Keep Cool, Cooling Blanket for Hot Sleepers https://prose.com/coj - Developed by a world-class team of in-house cosmetic chemists, every Prose product is the result of rigorous research, clinical studies, and dermatologist testing. https://quince.com/coj - Quince creates products of equal or greater quality than the leading luxury brands at a much lower price. Because we believe quality should never be a luxury. Premium Members also get access to searchable case files, written articles with documents, case photos, episode videos and exclusive live experiences with our hosts on lunasharkmedia.com all in one place. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. And for those just wanting ad-free listening without all the other great content, we now offer ad-free listening on Apple Podcast through a subscription to Luna Shark Plus on the Apple Podcasts App. And we also offer access to exclusive video content through our new YouTube Premiere subscription. Check out our new Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** Find us on social media: Twitter.com/mandymatney - Twitter.com/elizfarrell - Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube *The views expressed on the Cup of Justice bonus episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr
  • COJ #87 - Buster Murdaugh Takes on Hollywood + Why Domestic Abuse Investigations Should Note Power Differentials
    Jun 25 2024
    Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — take a look at the lawsuit filed by Buster Murdaugh against documentary filmmakers and major networks, accusing them of defamation in their Stephen Smith reporting. Eric gives a quick primer about what defamation is and what Buster is going to have to prove in the courtroom. Mandy and Liz talk about their observations of how the media handled the mentions of the Murdaugh name in the Smith investigation and what things looked like behind the scenes when film crews descended on the Lowcountry. They also explore the biggest question of all: Will this case end up bringing much-needed answers in the Stephen Smith investigation? Also on the show, what the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold a firearm ban for those accused of domestic violence will do for women and why it’s so hard to get women’s stories of abuse to be taken seriously. Premium members get an extended discussion about how law enforcement handles domestic violence calls and what needs to change. Let's get into it... Episode Resources: CNN Special Report Featuring Mandy, Liz, Eric, Sandy and Others ABC's 20/20 S44E11Fall of the House of Murdaugh CNN: Supreme Court upholds law barring domestic abusers from owning guns Premium Members also get access to searchable case files, written articles with documents, case photos, episode videos and exclusive live experiences with our hosts on lunasharkmedia.com all in one place. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. And for those just wanting ad-free listening without all the other great content, we now offer ad-free listening on Apple Podcast through a subscription to Luna Shark Plus on the Apple Podcasts App. And we also offer access to exclusive video content through our new YouTube Premiere subscription. Check out our new Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** Find us on social media: Twitter.com/mandymatney - Twitter.com/elizfarrell - Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube *The views expressed on the Cup of Justice bonus episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • COJ #86 - Crime Analyst Expert Laura Richards Joins Mandy To Shine Light on Coercive Control
    Jun 18 2024
    We are honored once again to welcome Laura Richards, world renowned and award-winning Criminal Behavioral Analyst, formerly of New Scotland Yard. Every week Laura profiles behaviors and identifies the red flags to prevent murders in slow motion on her groundbreaking and award winning podcast: Crime Analyst. Laura Richards and Mandy Matney discuss the prevalence and devastating consequences of coercive control in domestic abuse cases, emphasizing the need for legal changes and societal challenges to traditional gender roles. They'll also take a deeper dive into the Mica Francis case through the prism of Coercive Control. Learn more about Laura's research and additional resources at thelaurarichards.com or purchase her book Policing Domestic Violence on Amazon. This episode also stresses the importance of education and awareness, as well as the predictability and preventability of domestic violence murders. Plus the importance of active listening and identifying red flags in relationships, such as devaluation, love bombing, and controlling behaviors. And! We reserved a special conversation just for Premium Members about certain traditions and how they play a role in controlling behavior. Stay tuned for an upcoming Crime Analyst Episode with the other half of this conversation... Episode Resources: Duluth Model Power and Control Wheel The Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Honour Based Violence (DASH 2009-2024) Risk Identification, Assessment and Management Model Stalking Resources Learn more about Laura Richards here: crime-analyst.com/ youtube.com/@crimeanalyst twitter.com/thecrimeanalyst instagram.com/crimeanalyst/ And don't miss an explosive episode of True Sunlight Podcast this Thursday. All that being said, let’s get into it... Premium Members also get access to searchable case files, written articles with documents, case photos, episode videos and exclusive live experiences with our hosts on lunasharkmedia.com all in one place. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. And for those just wanting ad-free listening without all the other great content, we now offer ad-free listening on Apple Podcast through a subscription to Luna Shark Plus on the Apple Podcasts App. And we also offer access to exclusive video content through our new YouTube Premiere subscription. Check out our new Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** Find us on social media: Twitter.com/mandymatney - Twitter.com/elizfarrell - Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Cup of Justice Trailer
    Jun 14 2024
    We all want to drink from the same Cup of Justice ... and it starts with learning about our legal system. With tales from the newsroom and the courtroom, co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland invite you to gain knowledge, insight, and tools to hold public agencies and officials accountable. Beginning as bonus episodes to the Murdaugh Murders Podcast with analysis of the trials of Alex Murdaugh and co-conspirators, Cup of Justice launched as its own show in January of 2023. Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell from the Murdaugh Murders Podcast and everyone’s favorite attorney Eric Bland take a hard look at everything from the state of news to important cases around the world. INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM Mandy and Liz are two of the most driven and talented investigative journalists who are revolutionizing how news is derived and delivered. Join them as they pull at threads and chase down leads to get the story straight. THE LAW With the expertise of Eric Bland, we empower listeners to understand their legal system in an entertaining format while providing tools to hold agencies and public figures accountable in order to give voice to victims and change those systems for the better. JUSTICE SYSTEMS We know that our justice systems are intimidating, but we will all encounter it at one point. Together, our hosts create the perfect trifecta of legal expertise, journalistic integrity and a fire lit to expose the truth wherever it leads. Learn more about our hosts and mission at http://CupofJusticePod.com Support Our Podcast at: https://lunasharkmedia.com/support/ SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM JcP *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** Find us on social media: Twitter.com/mandymatney - Twitter.com/elizfarrell - Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube *The views expressed on the Cup of Justice bonus episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 min
  • COJ #85 - The Law that Could Have Saved Mica Francis’ Life + JP Miller’s Attempt to Ruin His Wife’s Reputation After Her Death
    Jun 11 2024
    Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — talk about the latest revelations in the Mica Miller case, which they’re now referring to as the Mica FRANCIS case (in honor of Mica’s attempt before her death to shed her married name and reclaim her identity). Last week, Mica’s family announced that they are determined to make sure there’s a law to protect victims of non-physical abuse in their relationships. In a press conference outside the Conway Courthouse in South Carolina, Mica’s attorney Regina B. Ward and family presented their plan for Mica’s Law, a bill that would criminalize “coercive control” behavior. As part of their announcement, they included a long list of the types of abuse Mica documented in her journals and in police reports. Also on the show, Mandy and David talk about their trip to Myrtle Beach to retrace Mica’s footsteps on the day she died. Premium Members will get an extended version that includes a discussion about cease and desist letters. Are they effective? What happens when there’s no substance to them? Let’s get into it... Premium Resources: Mica's List & Mica's Law, Documents Mica's Attorney, Regina Ward's, Press Conference Let’s get into it... Premium Members also get access to searchable case files, written articles with documents, case photos, episode videos and exclusive live experiences with our hosts on lunasharkmedia.com all in one place. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. And for those just wanting ad-free listening without all the other great content, we now offer ad-free listening on Apple Podcast through a subscription to Luna Shark Plus on the Apple Podcasts App. And we also offer access to exclusive video content through our new YouTube Premiere subscription. Check out our new Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM JcP *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** Find us on social media: Twitter.com/mandymatney - Twitter.com/elizfarrell - Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube *The views expressed on the Cup of Justice bonus episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • COJ #84 - Becky Hill’s ENORMOUS Lineup of Ethics Charges + Mica Miller Case Keeps Getting Stranger
    Jun 4 2024
    Cup of Justice co-hosts Mandy Matney, Liz Farrell and Eric Bland — are back with their analysis of former Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill’s enormous lineup of ethics charges. Last week Becky was charged with 76 violations of the state ethics code for giving herself around $10K in bonuses with Department of Social Services money along with a litany of allegedly unauthorized purchases for meals, parties and holiday celebrations. Were these charges directly related to Alex Murdaugh’s trial and getting publicity for Becky’s book? Also on the show, each day that passes since Mica Miller’s death, the more strange this case gets. Mandy, Liz and Eric talk about the FBI investigation and the latest filings they’ve uncovered on True Sunlight Podcast in what has become one of South Carolina’s most puzzling cases. Plus Dick Harpootlian gets endorsed by one of the state’s biggest newspapers. Why? Premium Members get extended discussions about the Mica Miller case that add significant context to the wild twists and turns here, plus a lively chat about trust and transparency in our public courts. Let’s get into it... Episode Resources: Dick Harpootlian's alleged photoshop of Russel Ott's hands Harpootlian vs. Ott Post and Courier Article Becky Hill's Ethics Complaint / Notice of Hearing Premium Members also get access to searchable case files, written articles with documents, case photos, episode videos and exclusive live experiences with our hosts on lunasharkmedia.com all in one place. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. And for those just wanting ad-free listening without all the other great content, we now offer ad-free listening on Apple Podcast through a subscription to Luna Shark Plus on the Apple Podcasts App. And we also offer access to exclusive video content through our new YouTube Premiere subscription. Check out our new Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM JcP *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** Find us on social media: Twitter.com/mandymatney - Twitter.com/elizfarrell - Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube *The views expressed on the Cup of Justice bonus episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr