Risky Business with Nate Silver and Maria Konnikova Deep Cover Presents: Snowball [ft. Maria Konnikova]
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Dec 8, 2025 In this intriguing discussion, guests Greg, Julie, and David Wards share their traumatic experiences with Leslie, a charming but deceptive woman who led their family to financial ruin. Greg recounts meeting Leslie in London and the charming tales that captivated him. Julie reveals how Leslie convinced them to invest in the Dragonfly Café, which quickly spiraled into chaos. David discusses the shocking moment they realized they were scammed, losing over a million dollars and their home. The family reflects on the mysterious allure of Leslie and the devastating consequences they faced.
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Charisma Can Override Rational Warnings
- Olly framed the story as both a con-artist case study and a family tragedy to investigate motives.
- The narrative shows how charisma and performed backstory can dismantle rational safeguards.
Unshakable Unease Before The Collapse
- Olly describes a sudden sense of unease about Greg's Californian bride that he couldn't explain.
- That unease foreshadowed the family's later financial collapse and disappearance of Leslie Minookian.
Confrontation That Revealed Ruin
- Greg recounts the moment a stranger confronted his parents in their cafe and told them they'd be liquidated.
- That encounter preceded the revelation they had lost over a million dollars and were facing homelessness.