There is nothing to learn from the sordid events covered in this surprisingly weak investigative podcast. An inconsequential story that could have been told in 3 hours is stretched out to a mind numbing 10 episodes. The episodes themselves are padded with solipsistic, cliched sequences that focus on the “journalist” and how she feels about being jerked around by the interview subjects. 2014 called and it wants its annoying Serial affections back. Not recommended.

Interesting story but extremely bias towards the defendant. Drops obligatory sound bites that generalize the pain of a family that lost a 16 year old son over a senseless crime; and uses “mental illness” as means to “humanize” a cold-blooded murderer rather than encourage accountability and remorse. While I acknowledge the purpose of this podcast is to investigate the dynamics of the U.S. criminal justice system - more specifically the mechanics of the parole system- maybe the host/producer should show a little empathy and put themselves in the Kain family’s shoes. If they did I can’t help but think their tone would change. Nothing is without its imperfections, but if you think the U.S. criminal justice system is so broken then leave. It got this one RIGHT.

I am such a fan of this podcasts storytelling of tragic crimes. The entire series was eye opening and truly has given me a new perspective on humanity. Thank you for such brave and thoughtful seasons

At first I was intrigued by this, but after every episode I was left feeling sad and disturbed by these people’s lives and choices. I also don’t know why the host seems to take Sophia’s side so much. To me, this story is not very complicated or mysterious, and I felt like the host kept giving Sophia way too much of the benefit of the doubt. Sadly, I think the horrible abuse she and her family members went through early in their lives created vulnerability to antisocial behaviors, dishonesty, and crime. Sophia and Sean ultimately chose to give in to their worst impulses and kill a sweet woman for money. I don’t think Sophia perpetrated the violence, but rather got Sean to do the dirty work in the plan they both were in on. I commend Shane for the positive choices he’s made, the life he’s led, and how he overcame the vulnerabilities that his siblings gave in to. I also think it’s very disturbing that Sophia has been deported for very good reasons and is clearly back in the US, and no one seems to have a problem with that, when many good, honest people without criminal records get deported all the time. I just felt like this podcast was far too sympathetic to Sophia. It’s sad she doesn’t have a relationship with her son, but I can understand why he wouldn’t trust her or be interested in connecting with her.

Great job by Amory!!

This reporter obviously put her whole heart into this show. The effort was worth it—this might be my favorite true crime podcast of 2024. Wonderful job!!

Great podcast. I’m about 95 percent convinced that Sean killed Marlene. Sophia isn’t an angel by any stretch. She made some serious errors when it came to embezzling money, which never would have likely happened if her boss had treated her fairly. But, Sean’s changing of details, changing his name, being evasive unless it benefits him to not be evasive, twisting information - it points to someone who either has a lot more information or is guilty of the murder himself. I’m on Episode 9 and I am hopeful that they have evidence that can be DNA tested with today’s science. So interesting that in Episode 9 that Sean resorts to threatening Sophia by testifying against her if it continues. Everything Sean is doing and saying leads to someone who appears REAL guilty. Just my two cents!

Super impressed!!! Great podcast!!!!!!!

The narrator in Season 1 has far too much bias in their story telling. It’s evident in early episodes. Season 1 narrator shares very little empathy for the victim or victims family. Season 2 is far superior for letting the listener arrive at their own conclusion.

Great podcast!

I stopped listening after an episode when it was clear the host was more interested in vindicating Jake Wideman for the murder of Eric Pane than telling the full story or sympathizing with the victims’ parents. Wideman comes across as manipulative, and the host seriously naive. I really don’t understand these podcasts that try to soften the killer’s deed. It’s all just excuses. He’s never given a reason for the crime. No motivation? That’s the scariest crime of all.

I really enjoyed this story! I have been thinking about it for days afterward. My only complaint is that there were a lot of questions left unanswered for me. I would have liked to know more about Sophia’s life, her mother, Brad, etc to understand the dynamics between everyone. For example, why did Sophia’s mom come to her house asking for help with her bank account? That seems unusual to me but this question was no explored at all and going to the bank with her mother was a central part of Sophia’s alibi.

The phone call where we hear Sophia reminding Sean REPEATEDLY the call is being recorded is what solidified it for me…she may have not acted alone, but there’s no way she didn’t have a big part of the crime.

I warned about spoilers so I don’t feel bad and saying that there is no way that Sophia didn’t plan the murder of her mother-in-law for financial gain. I do like how the podcast was produced albeit a bit wandering at times. But it blows my mind that the journalist could not see past her own bias to realize that in the end, Sophia was completely guilty and had been lying to everybody the whole entire time. How can somebody change their story that many times and still be believed when they say anything is wild to me, especially by an investigative journalist. I suppose it does speak to how manipulative Sophia is, but the ending on a joyous note that she talks to her brother who thought she was a killer but now it doesn’t, and the journalist saying that she doesn’t believe everything, but does believe her to some extent is just wild. I don’t know who produced this or edited it, but somebody should’ve taken a second look over the final episode and given her some notes. Worth a listen for the rollercoaster, but it surely is a study in manipulation, naivety, and confirmation bias.

This has enraged me. The judges ruling to not discuss his character and behavior… this all feels very relevant and I don’t think she had a fair trial! I’m only on episode 3 but I am SOOOO happy you are sharing this poor women’s story. I’m grateful her case is being told.

I just finished season 2, it’s great. Season 1its a flop. I don’t agree with people who say people who commit murder who get life sentences deserve a second chance, and I don’t think an entire podcast needed to be dedicated to this. It’s literally about a person who has proven to have unquestionably committed murder and sentenced to life and the podcast is about the injustice of him being in prison ridiculous . Season 2 though was completely gripping. I don’t think it should be connected to season 1. The ONE thing I would say I would want more of would be maybe a bit more about the victim, but as the season as a whole was solely focused on sophie and her siblings/family I do understand how that kind of took a back seat. I loved the episode with her friend and sister(?) a bit more with them maybe after all was said and done and everything came out with the new report would have been interesting. Over all though I did love this podcast. Hoping for a season 3!

I have been searching for a podcast that would keep me hooked and wanting more after I had finished up some of my favorites during Covid. And this is yet! Great story telling, investigative journalism, suspense and emotion. I still have so many questions and I hope there will be follow-up in the future. Amory has a wonderful way and voice of telling a story.

As someone that survived a narcissistic relationship this story made me angry from the very start. Almost as soon as Sophia spoke I could hear nothing but manipulation and deceit. I grew up in an extremely abusive environment, physically, emotionally, sexually and mentally. I survived a murder suicide of my mother and step father at the age of 16 being woken from a deep sleep to find our house on fire and both of them dead leaving my brother and I alone to either perish with them or get out on our own! That being said I’ve never once had thoughts of harming anyone let alone suggesting to someone they should carry a heinous crime. When the excuse of a bad childhood is used to justify violence it makes me cringe. Thank you Amory for following this story to the end and for openly saying you don’t completely believe what Sophia has said. I look forward to your next adventure.

I love stories where the bad guy somehow becomes the victim of the system. Give me a break.

This was so interesting in the beginning but by the end just reeked of confirmation bias. The host and the brother both drove me insaneeee

I really enjoyed “Beyond All Repair.” I was a bit frustrated in the beginning because I could feel details were missing, but I stayed for the ride and let the truth that I suspected all along reveal itself in the end. It’s just a shame that this woman lost her life. But I appreciated the reporters journey and the brothers journey. It took a lot of twists and turns. Life is complicated and this definitely was an example of that.

Naive super liberal journalist trying to do anything to make Sophie the only female in the is seasons story as the victim. It’s beyond obvious that Sophie is responsible for the murder of her mother in law and that she tried to set up her younger brother who had zero motive to kill his sisters mother in law. Immoral journalism willing to distort the truth in order to try and make something interesting that’s not. Immoral and unethical, pushing the far left narrative that women and other minorities are always the victim. Truly pathetic.

This is a well made podcast but omg is it incredibly one-sided. Jacob is right where he should be and he absolutely doesn’t deserve any sort of parole. If you want to point out the issues with parole and incarceration in this country maybe find a better example. Jake should never be free in public and his father is deliberately ignorant. Reading Season 2 reviews doesn’t look much better.

Great journalism and reporting on a difficult case. I arrived at the same conclusion.. Sophia is not trustworthy.. then or now. I believe she is manipulative and self serving. The Justice system served its purpose. People have to live with their choices. Thanks for the great listen!

If I can help one person escape having to listen through this tripe to the end in order to realize what a massive waste of time and ultimately extremely unpleasant journey it was, this review will have been worthwhile. This show is very professionally produced and those behind its production have plenty of talent — the only thing I can imagine is that after having spent a huge amount of time and money on it, they realized that the actual story was just a sordid mess and wouldn’t work as a podcast so they chose to present it differently - injecting uncertainty that wasn’t actually there and manipulating the listeners sympathies in their choices as to how the story is told — in the end they abet the sociopaths in doing more damage such that what results is a kind of low-grade horror that we as listeners feel somewhat implicated in in having even given this whole mess our time and attention. Listening to this will not make any aspect of your or anyone else’s life who deserves it better — it may have the opposite effect. BIG PASS.

This is a great story told by a great story teller- not a detective nor a pure investigative journalist. It flows well and leaves the listener yearning for the next episode. It’s clear that Amory had a difficult time staying unbiased with regard to the confessed murderer. (Still protecting her). I realize there must be an element of suspense and doubt to keep the story going, but as someone who has personally investigated dozens of homicides, the narrator comes off sounding naive and gullible. This story points out the harsh reality that what really happened, and what can be presented in a court of law, are two different things. Often detectives/investigators have knowledge that is not permitted to be introduced as evidence due to strictly legal protocol- not an interest to weigh ‘the whole truth’. - A Midwest Coroner

Season 1 is way too biased towards the perpetrator’s side. It makes the killer out to be the victim because the parole board system is not tilted in his favor. I wonder if he had molested a group of kids if the host would be so focused on how unfair it is he is behind bars.

Amory, if you’re going to be a “reporter/investigator” it’s very important to keep your personal feelings out of the story. You’re way to personally invested into a story that has absolutely nothing to do with you. Just simply report your findings and walk away. Stop all the over emotional 🧢!

Amory’s research and vulnerability to arrive at the truth is remarkable. Sophia is not a really likeable person-she’s had a hard life but Brad’s family was correct about her. Amory was so kind, patient, and professional with her, as well as the other family members. I look forward to another story. People are really complicated!

The host of this podcast did a beautiful job of telling an incredibly complicated story. She takes you on such journey, revealing more and more of a picture of this person Sofia with each episode. One of the best podcasts I’ve uncovered.

I just finished the second season and am looking forward to listening to season 1 next. Candid, insightful but factual, well researched, well told. Great voice, smooth and seemless to listen to.

I LOVED both season 1 and season 2. So compelling and such great reporting. Really appreciate the thoughtfulness.

So far this has been in my opinion one sided ! The one side is the murderers side! Haven’t heard one thing about the victims life up until he was stabbed & killed! I’m going to listen to the rest and write part 2

Great research & narration. So many people involved were included. Can’t say enough good things about season 2! I really liked season 1 as well but season 2 was the best in my opinion

Great cases and storytelling. Very captivating in all aspects.

Incredible journalism—my standards have lowered a bit since I’ve been devouring podcasts at such an aggressive clip but DANG wish they were all this well done! Truly excellent journalism and truly wild journey. Could not recommend more!!!! ALL THE STARS!!!!

We live 25 miles north of Vancouver and I don’t recall hearing about this. I am shocked they went after Sophia instead of Sean - plus the judge was prejudiced against her was enough for a new trial. Like Amory - I don’t think she was totally innocent - but what a confusing story. I enjoyed listening to this podcast. Thanks Jack

Important details left out till the last episode in order to build suspense.

Well well well done! No stone unturned. Such a fantastic piece of work. Truly a stunning conclusion.

It’s sad that the host that calls herself a journalist that didn’t even do a slight Google search into the Jehovah witness believes. I think that if you’re going to use that as a backstory to show something connecting to another thing, then it would make sense but she didn’t and it really didn’t add up unto how she just kept bringing it up, especially trying to blame forgetting your birthday(shane or w.e) because “they don’t cElEbRAtE bDaY’s” seems very weird… It’s definitely a reach… other than that, the podcast is very well Narrated & written, the transitions are clean. It’s definitely addicting. I just wish that there was more transparency that there is a religious bias from the host. So two stars taken: (basically I would have done a 2.5) 1. Misinformation that can lead to bigotry/hatred 2. Religious Bias 3. Lazy journalism

This is making my blood pressure go up!! Obviously Sean did it!! When I hear stories like this I realize our justice system is wack!!! Sophia husband can vouch for her being with him and that girlfriend of Sean where is she!!! I haven’t finished the series but lord I’m going to have to double up on meds.

Both seasons of this show are terrific. Season 1 will haunt me for a long time. The injustice is just maddening! Jacob Wideman deserves his freedom and I will follow this case until he is released. Season 2 is so full of twists and turns, it was just an incredible story to follow. Thanks for great, fair, detailed journalism.

Great job, had me sitting In my car at home listening. Thank you for reporting this story

I listened to beyond all repair and was very impressed by Amory and the production team. Very interesting case , and tough subject matter. I now just completed my binge of Season 1 , Violation .. which is another very interesting case from a point of view we don’t typically hear from in true crime. Beth Schwartzapfel did an Incredible job handling a very sensitive subject . I look forward to more WBUR podcasts and specifically any podcast with these two particular hosts in the future. Fingers crossed 🤞🏼

This podcast has so many twists and turns! I have no idea how Amory was able to put together such a complicated story and share it in a way that made it so easy to follow. Sophia is probably the best liar (not a compliment) I have ever heard. I don’t know if she even knows what is true because she has lied for so long. Shawn is conniving and selfish. And I hope the authorities bring charges against him. Shane is incredibly endearing and I worry about him continuing a relationship with Sophia. I just wanted to hug him. He’s obviously incredibly intelligent and kind. I would highly recommend this podcast! Thank you Amory and your whole team for sharing this fascinating story.

Absolutely amazing podcast!

This is one of the best podcasts that I’ve listened to, and told in such a way that was as organized as it could possibly be. The twists and turns in the story are so confusing though. I’ve listened to the entire thing plus the Q&A at the end. I still do not know what Sofia actual claim as to the chain of events that happened that day? She has told so many lies and changed her story so much that It became impossible to follow at the end for me. It was a thoroughly entertaining podcast though and well told

Amory is very good. We need another compelling story, thanks!

This is an excellent podcast and Amory Siverston is outstanding. She’s a fine orator- natural, never sounds scripted. She tells a story masterfully and inserts the perfect dose of heart and feeling. I hope she moves on from Endless Thread and does more long format narrative podcasts like this one. 10/10

I was hooked, what a great job Amery!