”…riveting enough that I couldn’t stop listening, and am so glad this show has completely dropped, I would have died if I wouldn’t have been able to binge it.”

— Lauren Passell, Podcast the Newsletter

“This is what David felt like when he slew Goliath. The Square Peg podcast, an indie production, has released an eight-episode narrative series that is comparable to—and in many ways —better than any production a large podcast network could create, develop, finance and produce.”

— Frank Racioppi, EarWorthy

“For those searching for compelling podcasts, give Square Peg a listen. It has its own voice, but it also reminds me of the great S-Town podcast: starts as a mystery but pivots to explore the central personality and his relationship with the podcaster. Such a great example of audio narrative AND self-reflexivity. I loved both the various twists AND the context and behind-the-scenes that was offered through the voices of the podcast team.”

— Matthew McAllister, professor of media studies, Penn State University

“Extraordinary show, beautifully told, written and edited. Kudos to all involved!”

— Class Action Podcast with Katie Phang

“Here’s the thing. Started listening to this show earlier this week and HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO STOP.”

—Arielle Nissenblatt, EarBuds Podcast Collective

“Loved this podcast! I was drawn in by the intrigue of the precipitating event 50 years ago, and I quickly became invested in this story, and how it would change the podcaster’s life. I was surprised that it made me think of my own relationships and the concept of blame. 5 enthusiastic stars for this respectful, thoughtful, and riveting podcast!”

— Anna Whiston-Donaldson, author and speaker

“It’s rare to find a wholly distinct narrative podcast these days, and this harkens back to the early days of the medium. As someone who found himself in a completely unpredictable situation—and especially as a first-time podcaster—Rob does a wonderful job of bringing his own authenticity to the mic, while also creating genuine empathy around the various characters in this fascinating story.”

— Josh Fjelstad, podcast professional

“What I was initially intrigued by, the potential crime by Frank's brother, quickly turned into needing to find out more about the relationships that formed over the course of the investigation! It was a great balance of mystery, personality, empathy and how people's lives unfold.”

— Comment from Podcasts We Listen To

“A fascinating listen and a great example of podcast that doesn't fit in just one category. It's both investigative and storytelling. You feel emotionally connected to Rob and Frank as the story unfolds and you are immersed with them as they navigate the many twists, turns, and obstacles on the way to finding answers to a mystery many years in the making.”

“A story made utterly compelling by Rob's gifted story telling, and seemingly bottomless well of empathy. Through incredibly patient and delicate handling by the producers, the podcast delivers a profound and humbling message about what it means to be human... Highly, highly recommend.”

— from Podchaser

 
 

“Beautifully told story. This one grabbed me right off the bat. The serendipitous and ultimately deep connection between the storyteller and his subject moved me deeply. I had a complicated family with deep divisions at times so I empathized with all the various people who were featured. I felt I knew and could understand Frank - his struggles. A profoundly human story.”

“This is a moving and well-told story that begins as a chance meeting and ends with a meaningful and unlikely friendship. Rob Collins masterfully crafts a poignant tale of family dysfunction, difficult people, and learning to live with unreconciled loss. Entertaining, touching, and revealing.”

“Stumbled upon this podcast, and couldn’t be happier about discovering this gem. Every episode holds twists and turns about holding onto physical and emotional trauma, family estrangement, and one stranger’s journey through another man’s 50-year battle with his own personal demons. So well done, and paced out brilliantly!”

“Rob has created a deeply immersive experience, drawing the listener into the ordinary, yet extraordinary world of Frank Carver and those who related (or didn’t) to him. Well told and well produced. I was transported from complete unfamiliarity with these real people with real struggles to a place of deep sympathy for their heartaches and complex life journeys. Don’t pass this one by.”

“This podcast kept me intrigued and gave me a lot to think about after it was over! Quirky, heartfelt, an awesome exploration of the human experience. Rob tells Frank’s story with empathy and an infectious curiosity.”

“Rarely do I find a podcast that I just can’t stop listening to. This is one. The caring, generous, and hopeful Rob Collins goes beyond expectations for his first podcast. I feel like I’m listening to the next star of the podcast world. His inadvertent contact with Frank Carver teaches us never to lose our humanity and despite what someone may present to the outside world, everyone has a heart.”

“This is one of those rare podcasts that will always stay with you.”

“I mean seriously. Who could dream up a story like this!? Bravo to Rob for paying attention, being curious, following the story and opening his heart and mind to an adventure unfolding in front of him. There is no script for this. You crushed it! A ++++”

“Profoundly emotional. If you loved S-town, you will love this podcast. Families, individuals and their interpersonal relationships and complex and this story highlights all those things in this surprising story. Highly recommend!”

“Frank’s story is compelling, but it is Rob’s perseverance in the face of so many obstacles that is the sweet spot of this story. We all have a bit of Frank in us for good and bad. We all hope we have a bit of Rob Collins in us as well for he is a testimony to friendship, hope, and using your talents to shine a light where darkness resides.”

“Addictive & unique! I was drawn in immediately by the intrigue and kept listening for the relationships that developed. I binged the whole series in one evening! I thought I knew where it was going, but it surprised me! Rob was so empathetic and it was a great reminder of what a difference one person can make in someone’s life. You never know who it might be.”

“Great story and storytelling! Quite quirky as to what one typo and lots of curiosity can lead to. Frank is a character that defies defining, but that’s just what this podcast is looking to do…discover, understand, help, and more.”

“What a fascinating story told with respect, insight, honesty, humor and gentle love. Thank you!”

“What a fantastic show! My biggest critique is that I wish it went on longer! The production, the story, the story TELLING, the writing, all of it. Rob and his team do a great job of keeping you hooked in while giving you subtle peeks behind the curtain of their own doubts and concerns as the story unfolds in your ears. It’s hard not to say too much without spoiling it, you just have to listen for yourself! Great work on this show! I can’t wait to see what you all create next!”

“Thought provoking! The story unfolded in a way I was not expecting. It was moving to hear Rob and Frank’s relationship develop. The session with the psychiatrist was very illuminating. I felt the podcast walked an uncomfortable but ultimately honest line between healthy and unhealthy boundaries between podcasters and their subjects. Extremely impressive first podcast by an engaging host and team.”

“This is a really compelling (and true) story!! I listened to all episodes in a few days and was anxious to know how the story would end. The podcast is well done, and the host is fascinating. I highly recommend this!!”

“A Surprisingly Engrossing Tale! I was quite surprised at how quickly the story grabbed me. The voices of the actual people involved by themselves are enough to draw you in. Like all the best “based on a true story” audio programs, you can SEE the characters in your mind and hear their emotions as they speak. The pace, choice of music, and production quality is excellent and helped draw me in, never drawing attention to itself or detracting from the story. All in all a puzzling but engrossing tale I’m glad to have listened to.”

If you also enjoyed, please write a review on Apple Podcasts.

 
 

“Charming and brilliant. I love this – just tells the story of all our families and skeletons that haunt them. Rob’s inexperience is hilarious and I love how he works with young female producers who seem to form a wise counsel around him and direct him as he fumbles around with his emotions around Frank.”

“How awesome when a curious person ‘scratches an inch’! I found Rob’s story telling wonderfully unique. Thoroughly enjoyed this.”

“Gets its hooks in to ya. Wonderful podcast. Humorous, frustrating and tear jerking. Get into it.”

“Well done, Rob Collins. Interesting podcast, I binged the lot in one go,”