Swindled S7 Ep94: The Messenger (Kevin Trudeau)
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May 1, 2023 A TV pitchman turns infomercials for miracle cures, memory tricks, and get-rich schemes into a sprawling career of court battles and consumer complaints, ultimately landing behind bars. Along the way: a phony French noblewoman fakes her own death, and the creator of Hooked on Phonics faces scrutiny over bold promises and a sexual harassment lawsuit.
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Hooked on Phonics Controversy
- Hooked on Phonics, a popular reading program, faced criticism for dubious claims and misleading advertising.
- The FTC investigated and restricted their claims, leading to bankruptcy despite Shanahan's denial of wrongdoing.
Trudeau's Early Legal Troubles
- Kevin Trudeau, a career salesman, faced legal trouble for worthless checks, impersonating a doctor, and credit card fraud.
- Despite prison time and psychiatric evaluation, he continued his sales career.
Trudeau Marketing Group
- After prison, Trudeau started the Trudeau Marketing Group, a multi-level marketing company selling health products.
- It faced lawsuits for being a pyramid scheme and was shut down.