Bonus: A Conversation with Brad Mielke
Summary
Brad Milkey and Juju Chang reflect on the "Bridge of Lies" series, which investigates the 2013 disappearance of 19-year-old Sarah Stern in New Jersey. They discuss the behind-the-scenes process of reconstructing Sarah’s life through digital archives and the emotional impact of the case on the host. The conversation highlights the chilling sting operation tape where a suspect confesses to the murder, including unreleased audio of an interruption during the interrogation. Chang also shares her perspective on the true crime genre and the unique storytelling potential of audio journalism.
Topics discussed
Jamie Foxx stand-up special promo
Introduction to Bridge of Lies final episode
Personal connection to Sarah Stern's story
Reconstructing Sarah's life and early investigation
Neptune City setting and childhood friends
Discovering Sarah's online presence and voice
The role of the cash and the brave informant
Reaction to the confession tape details
Behind the scenes of the sting operation
Transition to discussing the host's role
Sponsorship and commercial breaks
The unique storytelling of podcasting
The production process and team dynamics
Why audiences are drawn to true crime
Juju Chang's other notable true crime stories
Closing credits and upcoming series promo
Heist at the Louvre series promo
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