From Network News to True-Crime Royalty – The Incredible Story of Surviving the Survivor

True crime is filled with gripping stories, but few are as unique and emotionally powerful as Surviving the Survivor. This podcast, led by Emmy Award-winning journalist Joel Waldman and his mother, Karmela Waldman, a Holocaust survivor and psychotherapist, brings a deeply personal and raw approach to storytelling. Their journey from network news to podcasting has not only captivated audiences but also redefined what it means to survive.

The Birth of Surviving the Survivor

What happens when a seasoned journalist and his resilient mother come together to share stories? You get a podcast that blends investigative depth with raw emotion, humor, and wisdom. Surviving the Survivor is more than just another true crime show—it’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.

Joel Waldman’s career in journalism took him to some of the biggest stories of our time. As a former Fox News Washington correspondent and an investigative reporter for Fox 5, he was no stranger to uncovering truths and asking the hard questions. But after years in the industry, he felt the pull toward something different—something more personal.

Enter Surviving the Survivor—a podcast that allows him to explore the depths of human survival, resilience, and loss, all while sharing the mic with his extraordinary mother. Karmela’s experiences, from surviving World War II in hiding to becoming a psychotherapist, bring an unmatched level of depth and sincerity to the show.

From Breaking News to Podcasting Stardom

For Joel, leaving behind the world of network news was a major shift. Reporting on Capitol Hill and major national events meant dealing with fast-paced, high-pressure environments. But in the world of podcasting, he found a different kind of calling—one where he could control the narrative, focus on deep, meaningful discussions, and engage audiences on a personal level.

With Surviving the Survivor, Joel and Karmela have carved out a niche that is both highly informative and deeply human. Unlike traditional true crime podcasts that focus solely on cases, they bring in the human element, exploring the psychological, emotional, and real-life implications of survival.

The True-Crime Phenomenon

True crime podcasts have become a cultural phenomenon, drawing millions of listeners worldwide. But what sets Surviving the Survivor apart? It’s the seamless blend of investigative rigor, emotional storytelling, and personal reflection.

The podcast takes listeners beyond the headlines, diving into what it truly means to survive—whether it’s escaping a crime, overcoming personal loss, or navigating the aftermath of tragedy. Through expert interviews, survivor testimonies, and personal anecdotes, Joel and Karmela create a space where both victims and listeners can find understanding, closure, and sometimes even humor in the darkest of topics.

Karmela’s Untold Story: A Survivor in Every Sense

One of the most compelling aspects of Surviving the Survivor is Karmela Waldman’s own story. Born during World War II, she survived by hiding in a boys’ Catholic school, evading the horrors that consumed so many during the Holocaust. Her journey from childhood survival to becoming a psychotherapist is nothing short of incredible.

But Karmela’s resilience didn’t end with the war. She endured the immense grief of losing a son and facing life without her husband of 63 years. Her strength, wisdom, and sometimes brutally honest humor add a depth to the podcast that few other hosts could offer.

Her perspective brings an irreplaceable dynamic to Surviving the Survivor—she is not only a survivor of history’s darkest moments but also an expert in understanding human behavior, trauma, and resilience.

The Art of Mother-Son Podcasting

The chemistry between Joel and Karmela is what makes this podcast truly special. Their dynamic is raw, unfiltered, and often hilarious. They challenge each other, support one another, and share candid moments that make listeners feel like they’re part of a family conversation.

While true crime is at the heart of their discussions, their relationship adds a layer of authenticity that goes beyond storytelling. Whether it’s Karmela offering a psychological breakdown of a case or Joel teasing his mother about her opinions, the interactions between them make every episode an emotional rollercoaster.

Lessons on Survival and Resilience

At its core, Surviving the Survivor isn’t just about true crime—it’s about life. The podcast delves into some of life’s biggest questions: how do people overcome unimaginable trauma? What can true crime stories teach us about human resilience? Why do some stories haunt journalists forever? How do we find meaning in tragedy?

Through each episode, listeners gain insight not just into crime and survival, but also into aging, grief, parenthood, and the psychology of resilience.

The Podcast That Changes Lives

Few podcasts manage to be both entertaining and deeply impactful, but Surviving the Survivor has struck that balance. By blending investigative journalism with heartfelt storytelling, Joel and Karmela have created a space where listeners can learn, reflect, and even heal.

If you’re a fan of true crime, gripping storytelling, and unfiltered conversations, this is a podcast you can’t afford to miss.

Tune In and Join the Conversation

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Follow Surviving the Survivor on Instagram @survivingthesurvivor and check out the book Surviving the Survivor.