Filmmaker Jessica Earnshaw Explores The Case of “Baby Doe”

July 7, 2026

Award-winning documentary filmmaker and photojournalist Jessica Earnshaw joins host Michael Azevedo to discuss her latest film, “Baby Doe,” which is currently playing in a limited theatrical release.
 
“Baby Doe” tells the story of Gail Ritchey who, 30 years ago, as a young woman from a conservative Christian community in rural Ohio, gave birth alone and left her newborn in the woods.
 
Now a mother of three, her quiet suburban life is shattered when DNA evidence links her to what came to be known as “Geauga’s Child,”and she is arrested for murder – despite saying the baby was stillborn. 
 
Facing a life sentence, Gail leans on her family for support as she confronts the weight of societal and religious pressures.
 
“Baby Doe” cuts through the headlines to uncover the human complexity of Gail’s case – examining the intersection of women’s health, justice, and the outside forces that continue to shape stories like hers.
 

Making Media Now—which is available on all podcast platforms including YouTube–is sponsored by Filmmakers Collaborative, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting media makers from across the creative spectrum. From providing fiscal sponsorship to presenting an array of informative and educational programs, Filmmakers Collaborative supports creatives at every step in their journey.
 
About the host: http://www.writevoicecreative.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-azevedo/

 
Sound Engineer: A.J. Kierstead