Beyond All Repair is the second season of a true crime podcast by Boston NPR station WBUR. In it, host Amory Sivertson investigates the controversial murder trial of Sophia Johnson. She stood trial in 2002 for the murder of her mother-in-law by bludgeoning. Due to mishandling of the trial and jury deliberation, the courts overturned her conviction. To this day, Sophia maintains her innocence. Who killed Marlyne Johnson? Why did Sophia's own brother testify against her, saying he saw the murder? This ten-part series reveals the truth of this complex story.
Sivertson is a broadcast journalist, producer, and independent musician. Beyond this show, she has produced several other podcasts. Her previous shows include Endless Thread and Modern Love: The Podcast. Sivertson's work on podcasts and radio has earned her multiple awards. Her academic background in music and acting makes her a charismatic host on this show. Beyond her excellent narration, Sivertson also conducts compelling interviews. Beyond All Repair features her conversations with Sophia and others involved in the trial.
The show began with a different name and focus. Violation details the horrific murder of Eric Kane in 1986. During a summer retreat, teenager Jacob Wideman stabbed Kane to death. When he confessed to the crime, he wasn't able to explain his motivation. After decades, Wideman earned parole with the condition of house arrest, sparking outrage. The series reveals how parole boards function and how much power they wield. The host of Violation is Beth Schwartzapfel, a reporter for The Marshall Project.
This podcast is a captivating and emotional true crime story told by those who lived it. Listeners follow Sophia's difficult journey to freedom and her strained family ties. After all these years, the murder is a cold case. But for the Johnson family, the pain of Marlyne's death never ends. All episodes of the Beyond All Repair podcast are available to stream.
Season 2
Season 1