AdLarge & fwd. Network Add The First Degree to Lineup

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, September 4, 2025 | 3:48pm CT

The First Degree

AdLarge and the fwd. network have announced the addition of The First Degree, the long-running true crime podcast hosted by journalist Alexis Linkletter and entrepreneur and cultural influencer Jac Vanek. Now in its eighth year, The First Degree has established itself as a fixture in the genre, offering listeners a deeper look beyond the headlines and into the lives of those directly impacted by crime.

Each week, the show blends Linkletter's investigative reporting with Vanek's pop culture sensibility to deliver sharp storytelling, first-person accounts, and candid conversations that examine both the shocking details of crime and the lasting ripple effects on victims' communities.

"The First Degree was built to uncover the stories you won't hear anywhere else," said Linkletter. "The most important voices are often the ones closest to the crime and bringing those perspectives forward is what sets our show apart. Partnering with the fwd. network allows us to continue that mission on a bigger stage."

"For me, The First Degree has always been about connection," added Vanek. "It's where curiosity meets culture, and where listeners feel like part of the conversation. Joining the fwd. network means we're not just growing the show, we're growing a community of women who are hungry for stories that are raw, real, and relatable."

With more than 500 episodes, the show pairs Vanek's perspective with Linkletter's acclaimed investigative work, including her role on Unraveled: Long Island Serial Killer. The podcast has built an audience of millions and continues to resonate with listeners for its authenticity and accessibility.

"The First Degree is the perfect fit for the fwd. network," said Cathy Csukas, CEO of AdLarge and the fwd. network. "Jac and Alexis have built a powerhouse show that delivers smart, compelling storytelling and an audience of deeply engaged women. It's a strong opportunity for the advertising marketplace and reflects our vision to make the fwd. network the destination for premium, women-led content."

The First Degree is available on all major podcast platforms.