NZ’s Biggest True Crime Podcaster: Ryan Wolf on ‘Guilt’ and CRAZIEST Murder Stories
Episode Description
When it comes to true crime podcasting in New Zealand, Ryan Wolf is in a league of his own. Even if you've never pressed play on his gripping podcast Guilt, you've probably heard about it in the news: this is the series that’s led NZ Police to re-examine their own investigations on major cases. And the wildest part? Ryan is completely self-taught. No big media company behind him, no big studio. Just a husband and dad of 2 kids under 5 who is producing world-class content from a spare room in his house.
In this episode, we unpack how this trained lawyer, former Shortland Street actor and part-time house flipper accidentally became one of Aotearoa’s most important storytellers.
We chat about his non negotiables: like support of the victims’ families and the importance of prioritizing truth and making a difference over entertainment.
If you're already a Guilt fan, this is a must-listen.
If you’re not, chances are, by the end of this, you will want to give it a listen.
Or at the very least, you’ll be introduced to an inspiring guy who is doing incredible work.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Who is Ryan Wolf? 11:51 Exploring Notable Cases: Season Highlights 18:02 Collaboration with Law Enforcement 23:53 Future Direction 29:04 Reopening Cases and Building Relationships 35:43 Exploring Recent Cases and Community Impact 41:49 Navigating Personal Risks in Investigative Work 51:52 Lessons Learned and Evolving Techniques 58:30 Balancing Entertainment with Making a Difference 1:08:36 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters 1:12:52 Cold Cases and Future Investigations 1:24:26 Reflections on Success and Growth
Brief Summary
Ryan Wolf discusses his true crime podcast "Guilt," its investigative approach, and the challenges of covering unsolved cases.
Key points
- Investigating True Crime. Ryan explains the unique approach of his investigative true crime podcast, 'Guilt'.
- Ryan Wolf's Podcast Journey. Ryan Wolf shares the beginnings of his podcast journey and its unexpected success.
- The Importance of Family in Storytelling. Involving the victim's family is crucial for authentic storytelling. It adds depth and accountability.
- The Case of Alana Ceil. Alana's mysterious death leads to a reopened investigation after years of silence.
- The Deadly Herbicide. A very deadly herbicide was used, with just 10 mills enough to kill an adult.
- Investigative Risks. The host discusses the risks of investigating dangerous individuals and the threats received.
Ask about Dom Harvey
Episode highlights
- Investigating True CrimeRyan explains the unique approach of his investigative true crime podcast, 'Guilt'.“It's like those Netflix documentaries, but audio.”2:35Jun 24, 2025
- Ryan Wolf's Podcast JourneyRyan Wolf shares the beginnings of his podcast journey and its unexpected success.“I didn’t care about downloads or anything.”13:11Jun 24, 2025
- The Importance of Family in StorytellingInvolving the victim's family is crucial for authentic storytelling. It adds depth and accountability.“Working with the family is the utmost importance.”18:11Jun 24, 2025
- The Case of Alana CeilAlana's mysterious death leads to a reopened investigation after years of silence.“This case is sort of dear to my heart.”26:03Jun 24, 2025
- The Deadly HerbicideA very deadly herbicide was used, with just 10 mills enough to kill an adult.34:49Jun 24, 2025
- Investigative RisksThe host discusses the risks of investigating dangerous individuals and the threats received.39:46Jun 24, 2025
- Family Safety ConcernsThe host shares how his family has been affected by the dangers of his work.46:04Jun 24, 2025
- The Challenge of Filtering CasesHe discusses the emotional difficulty of deciding which cases to pursue.“It's difficult to say to someone, I'm not going to look into your case.”53:44Jun 24, 2025





