What do you get when you mix fine art, espionage, Russian business deals, and one very charismatic con man from Nova Scotia?

In this episode of Crafting the Case, we dive deep into the unbelievable true story of John Mark Tillmann — the antique thief who stole over 10,000 artifacts from museums, universities, and private collections, all while hiding them in plain sight in his suburban home.

But beneath the stolen letters from George Washington and priceless first editions was something darker: political extremism, manipulation, and a life built on illusion.

Join us as we trace Tillmann’s life from Fall River to Moscow, and ultimately, to the unraveling of one of Canada’s most prolific art theft operations.

🎨 While we tell this wild tale, we’re crafting something inspired by forgery, museum aesthetics, and a little paint-by-numbers fun!

In this springy-but-spooky episode of Crafting the Case, we dive into florals and folklore! While making DIY spring wreaths, we unravel the eerie legend of Truro’s infamous Langille House — one of Nova Scotia’s most chilling ghost stories.

There’s also some classic weekend catch-up, plenty of laughs, and a whole lot of hot glue 🌿👻.

In this episode, we explore the wrongful conviction of Donald Marshall Jr., a Mi’kmaq teen from Membertou First Nation who spent 11 years in prison for a murder he didn’t commit.

His story reveals the deep-rooted racism and systemic failures in Canada’s justice system — from a flawed 1971 investigation to coerced testimonies. More than a legal tragedy, it’s a powerful story of resistance, colonial injustice, and the legacy of one man’s fight for Indigenous rights.

📍 Recorded in Kjipuktuk, on Mi’kmaw territory.