Scamfluencers
Wondery
You never really know someone…especially online. In today’s world, the power of influence can be the quickest path to money and fame, and it often ends in ruin. These are the stories of the world’s most insidious Scamfluencers. And we are their prey. On Wondery’s new weekly series, join co-hosts Scaachi Koul and Sarah Hagi as they unpack epic stories of deception from the worlds of social media, fashion, finance, health, and wellness. These influencers claim to be everything from charismatic healers to trusted financial insiders to experts in dating. They cast spells over millions. Why do we believe them, and how does our culture allow them to thrive? From Black Swan Murder to a fake social media influencer to an audacious Hollywood Ponzi schemer, each season will take the listener along the twists and turns, the impact on victims, and what’s left when the facade falls away.Need more Scamfluencers? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/scamfluencers/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 22, 2025 • 44min
The Cipriani Family: Bribes and Bellinis | 193
For nearly a century the Cipriani family has served celebrities, royalty, and cultural icons. Since opening their first restaurant in Venice in 1931, they’ve helped shape fine dining and invent dishes that became global classics. But as the Cipriani empire expanded, so did the scandals – including union busting, tax evasion, and alleged mob connections. Turns out the Cipriani recipe for success included a lot more than just glitz, glamor, and champagne.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dec 15, 2025 • 56min
Calvin Darden Jr.: The Flashy Failson Fraud | 192
Calvin Darden Jr. was a master con artist, leveraging his charm and a fake celebrity network to swindle money from investors. His lavish lifestyle was built on forged documents and stolen funds, leading to millions in fraudulent earnings. After a brief prison stint, he returned to scamming, even impersonating his father to continue his deceit. The podcast unravels Calvin's audacious schemes, exploring why he kept taking risks despite numerous arrests and federal indictments. A fascinating glimpse into the mind of a smooth-talking hustler!
7 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 53min
Clifford Irving: The Howard Hughes Hoax | 191
Dive into the audacious scheme of Clifford Irving, who faked interviews with the reclusive Howard Hughes for a tell-all biography, banking on Hughes's isolation to evade scrutiny. Discover how Irving’s obsession with fame led him to forge letters to secure a lucrative deal. As the hoax unravels, Hughes unexpectedly speaks up, casting doubt on Irving's narrative. The hosts explore the investigative efforts that expose the truth, culminating in legal consequences for Irving and a lasting impact on both their lives.
Dec 1, 2025 • 53min
Alan Todd May: Black Gold, Red Flags | 190
Alan Todd May's wild journey is a thrilling rollercoaster of deception. With charm and audacity, he posed as a wealthy Texas oilman, running elaborate scams, even from prison. His flee-from-the-law antics included a high-society reinvention in Palm Beach, complete with lavish parties. However, attention-seeking led to his downfall, as a simple photo exposed his true identity. The intricate web of lies finally unraveled, culminating in his arrest and sentencing. Tune in for a fascinating story of ambition, betrayal, and the high cost of greed.
8 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 55min
Studio 54: Tax Evasion! At the Disco | 189
Dive into the glamorous world of Studio 54, where the elite danced amid secrets of tax evasion. From its extravagant opening night, filled with celebrities, to the systematic cash-skimming schemes, the story unveils the rise and fall of this iconic nightclub. Explore how IRS raids and dubious legal tactics led to the downfall of its founders. The hosts also discuss their post-prison reinvention into boutique hotels and the lasting cultural impact of Studio 54 as a symbol of an era defined by excess and exclusivity.
9 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 54min
Rick & Rosario Ames: The Spy Who Told Too Much | 188
Rick Ames, a mediocre CIA agent with a drinking problem, turned into a double agent, selling secrets to the KGB for nearly a decade. Joined by his wife, Rosario, they enjoyed a life of luxury while imperiling countless lives. Their betrayal had deadly consequences for many Soviet double agents. As suspicions grew, internal investigations linked their opulent lifestyle to espionage. Ultimately, both were caught, with Rick receiving a life sentence, leaving behind a legacy of greed and treachery in the intelligence community.
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 6min
ENCORE: Mike Milken: When Junk Was King | 187
Delve into the glitzy world of the 1980s with the rise and fall of Michael Milken, the 'Junk Bond King.' Discover how his risky financing strategies transformed Wall Street and empowered corporate raiders like T. Boone Pickens. Learn about Milken's relentless ambition, his empire-building tactics in Los Angeles, and how his opaque practices led to investigations and his eventual downfall. Explore his brief prison stint, subsequent reputation rehab, and continued influence through philanthropy and conferences.
Nov 5, 2025 • 35min
ENCORE: Bob Menendez: Bad Romance Part 2 | 186
Bob Menendez faces serious legal trouble after being indicted alongside his wife for corruption tied to Egypt. In a dramatic twist, he throws his wife under the bus while attempting to salvage his political career. The podcast delves into shocking revelations, including past scandals and a fatal car accident involving Nadine. Key testimonies reveal a web of deceit, including allegations of acting as foreign agents and dubious cash dealings. The hosts discuss his guilty verdict on multiple charges and the emotional fallout surrounding betrayal and illness.
Nov 3, 2025 • 46min
ENCORE: Bob Menendez: Bad Romance Part 1 | 185
Explore the rise and fall of Bob Menendez, a politician with a dark twist as he trades his anti-corruption image for bribes. Discover the complicated beginnings of his romance with Nadine Arslanian amidst legal entanglements and shady dealings. The couple finds themselves entangled in a halal monopoly scheme and international intrigue involving Egypt. FBI surveillance uncovers a web of gifts, cash, and even gold bars, all while Menendez navigates the political landscape. This wild story blends love, corruption, and scandal!
Oct 27, 2025 • 50min
Natalie Cochran: The Pharmacist Femme Fatale Part 2 | 184
When her Ponzi scheme starts to crumble – and her husband dies under mysterious circumstances – Natalie Cochran plays the perfect victim: a widowed mother of two, supposedly battling cancer while grieving her sudden loss. But behind her tears is a master manipulator. And soon, Natalie will face questions she can’t lie her way out of – from federal investigators and the national media.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen to Scamfluencers on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/scamfluencers/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
