The defense for the capital murder trial of Tanner Horner, switches the focus from the devastating final moments of 7-year-old Athena Strand to the life and mind of the man who killed her. In this episode of Hidden True Crime, Lauren breaks down emotional testimony from family members detailing generational trauma, addiction, and instability, alongside expert witnesses who introduce complex arguments around autism, lead exposure, and brain abnormalities. But as the defense builds its case for life without parole over the death penalty, prosecutors push back—emphasizing accountability, choice, and the undeniable brutality of the crime. With powerful courtroom moments, psychological insight, and critical analysis, this episode walks you through what the jury is now weighing—and what it could mean for justice in Athena’s case. Sponsors: Blissy: Wake up with clearer skin, smoother hair, and cooler sleep—use code HIDDEN for an extra 30% off at https://blissy.com/HIDDEN OneSkin: Get 15% off OneSkin with the code HIDDEN at https://www.oneskin.co/hidden #oneskinpod ASPCA:Visit https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/HIDDEN to explore coverage. 0:00- intro Wednesday 6:11- first witness (Phycologist John Edens) 16:37- second witness (Tanner’s mother, Melissa) 37:31- third witness (Tanner’s paternal great aunt) Thursday 43:08- fourth witness (Tanner’s paternal aunt) 54:12- fifth witness (Tanner’s maternal second cousin) 1:00:06- sixth witness  (environmental health expert, Dr. Aaron Spech) 1:06:03- seventh witness (therapist, Mr. Weeks) 1:10:14- eighth witness (School Psychologist, Mary) Friday 1:20:12- ninth witness (Tanner’s fifth grade teacher) 1:27:40- tenth witness (speech-language pathologist, Beth) 1:41:08 - eleventh witness (neuroscientist, Dr. Jeffrey David Lewine) 1:54:36 - twelfth witness (neuropsychologist, Dr. Erin David Bigler) 2:01:33- closing Become a Hidden gem: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBp03toXz-WZ6gSt7YtSdEg/join Find exclusive episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/hiddentruecrime Lauren Matthias was a television reporter for a decade. She and her husband, Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, started Hidden True Crime in 2020 with their Season, 'Beyond the Veil,' a psychological deep dive into the doomsday murders of Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow. What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a forensic psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at https://www.patreon.com/hiddentruecrime Become a channel member and gem: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBp03toXz-WZ6gSt7YtSdEg/join Join for channel emojis: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBp03toXz-WZ6gSt7YtSdEg/join Did the Defense Help Tanner Horner… or Hurt Him? Brain Scans, Trauma & Key Testimony | Athena Strand We're a true crime news channel working to ensure that the public gets the most factual information on the latest crimes. This video is a news piece in the public's interest. This video was created with the intent of educating the public. tanner horner,tanner horner trial,athena strand,athena strand trial,athena strand audio,athena strand trial recap,athena strand trial live,athena strand case,maitlyn gandy,athena strand father testimony,tanner horner athena strand,athena strand case update,what happened to athena strand,hidden true crime,lauren matthias,hidden true crime lauren matthias,true crime,true crime stories,trial watchers,true crime podcast,athena strand mom,Tanner horner mom