Aberdeen-based creative marketing agency Mearns & Gill has unveiled its first-ever true crime podcast — RGU Crime Files — produced for Robert Gordon University (RGU) and hosted by the agency’s very own Pete McIntosh.
The five-part series delves into some of the North-east’s most fascinating and gripping historic crime stories, brought to life through immersive storytelling and expert analysis from RGU’s School of Law and Social Sciences.
Each episode examines a real case that shaped Scotland’s social and legal history, from Murder at the Saltoun Arms, to Bodysnatching and the Anatomy Riot, to the haunting Witch Trials of Aberdeen.
Just in time for Halloween, RGU Crime Files revisits the 16th-century witch trials that gripped the city in fear, when a whisper of the word “witch” could mean death. The episode explores the hysteria and persecution that swept across Scotland, and how fear and power influenced justice.
Pete McIntosh, Podcast Host and Producer at Mearns & Gill, says, “As an agency, we typically produce a lot of business-to-business or business-to-consumer podcasts, so moving into true crime was very different. I’m very proud of this project, as it’s been a chance to combine true crime storytelling with real academic insight. Working alongside RGU’s experts has allowed us to explore Aberdeen’s darker history in a way that’s both educational and thought-provoking.”
The series was produced in the M&G Media Studio in Aberdeen, home to the agency’s growing podcast and video production arm.
Mike Wilson, Managing Director at Mearns & Gill, adds, “This project really highlights the versatility and creativity of our team. It’s a great example of how we can bring together strong storytelling, sound design, and collaboration to produce something unique. RGU Crime Files not only showcases our production capabilities but also strengthens our connection with local history, education, and culture.”
