On this week’s episode of Empty Nesters and True Crime, Susan takes a closer look at the chilling murder that took place in the seemingly perfect town of Celebration, Florida. Known for its connection to Disney and proximity to the "Happiest Place on Earth," Celebration was built to reflect a flawless suburban lifestyle. However, for the Todt family, this idyllic setting became the stage for an unthinkable crime.
Susan revisits with Nancy the horrifying case of the Todt family murder, where the facade of a picture-perfect life crumbled in the most tragic way. The episode focuses on the shocking details of how Anthony Todt, a father and physical therapist, was accused of killing his wife, Megan, and their three children inside their home, turning what appeared to be a life of stability and success into a nightmare. In a town designed to offer happiness and harmony, the dark events that unfolded behind the walls of the Todt home shattered that image.
Rather than exploring the aftermath for the family or the community, Susan concentrates on the harrowing facts surrounding the case itself. What drove Anthony Todt to commit such a brutal act? How could this happen in a community so closely tied to joy and perfection? Susan expertly guides listeners through the tragic timeline of events, detailing the police investigation, the eerie lack of communication from the family for weeks, and the eventual discovery of the grisly scene that shocked the nation.
With her signature style of gripping storytelling and in-depth research, Susan presents a compelling episode that explores how, even in the most idealistic settings like Celebration, Florida, the truth can be far darker than anyone imagines. This episode is a haunting reminder that appearances can be deceiving, and no place, no matter how perfect, is immune to tragedy.
Sources:
"The Todt Family" – Crime Junkie Podcast
Crime Junkie. Accessed September 2024. https://crimejunkiepodcast.com/murdered-todt-family/Truesdell, Jeff. “Anthony Todt, Celebration, Florida Father, Convicted of Killing Family.” People, April 14, 2022. https://people.com/crime/anthony-todt-celebration-florida-father-convicted-killing-family/
Popular Podcasts
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com