Paul Holes on his New York Times bestselling book “Unmasked” and the importance of having honest mental health discussions - Heart of the Matter

Topics in this episode

mental health Elizabeth vargas paul holes true crime golden state killer

Episode notes

In the latest episode of Heart of the Matter , Elizabeth Vargas is joined by investigator Paul Holes, New York Times bestselling author of “Unmasked: My Life Solving America’s Cold Cases.” Paul is known for his role in helping to solve high-profile homicide cases, including the notorious Golden State Killer. But his crime fighting success was masked by what was going on with Paul personally. He spent decades with unresolved anxiety and panic attacks, eventually turning to alcohol as a way to cope with the stress. Together, Paul and Elizabeth discuss how his own anxiety changed the way he views his cold cases; and his own experiences in the law enforcement community, including how making himself vulnerable is opening the door to more honest mental health discussions. Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.