Scamfluencers Conrad Black: The Fleet Street Fleece | 154
14 snips
Apr 14, 2025 Explore the rise and fall of Conrad Black, who transformed a Canadian newspaper into a global media giant. Discover his extravagant lifestyle, marked by lavish parties and elite connections with figures like Margaret Thatcher. Learn about the shady business practices that led to scrutiny and betrayal from his partner. Delve into the intense courtroom drama as Black battles legal troubles, all while navigating the moral implications of ambition and privilege in the media world. The hosts reflect on the allure of luxury versus the charm of ordinary life.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Office Raid
- Conrad Black, head of Hollinger Inc., snuck into his headquarters in May 2005.
- He aimed to destroy evidence of his financial crimes amidst investigations.
Early Life and Expulsion
- As a teenager, Conrad Black was expelled for stealing and selling exams.
- Witnessing his father's subsequent downfall fueled Conrad's ambition and ruthlessness.
Radler's Cost-Cutting
- David Radler, Conrad Black's business partner, cut costs at the Sherbrooke Record by slashing staff and delaying supplier payments.
- Their ruthless approach quickly turned the struggling newspaper profitable.
