
Believable: The Coco Berthmann Story
Coco Berthmann became internet-famous by sharing her story of surviving sex trafficking as a young child growing up in Germany. She was sheltered and supported by families in Utah, where her faith and fame intertwined. But in 2022, Coco was arrested for raising money for a fake cancer diagnosis, and people began to doubt everything that she had ever said. Is her life story truly one big elaborate lie? Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Sara Ganim and Edward R. Murrow Award-winning showrunner Karen Given investigate in Dear Media’s first true crime podcast.
Latest episodes

Sep 21, 2023 • 1h 13min
Call Us Anytime
As Coco Berthmann’s lies are exposed, survivors band together and ask why she wasn’t stopped sooner. Meanwhile, Coco makes her last appearance in court for lying about cancer, but the case against her only addressed a fraction of the money she raised. What happened to the rest of the money? And, as Coco tries to move on after her arrest, more people come forward to suggest that her lies and manipulation continue.If you or a loved one is struggling, help is available:Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 855-897-5910National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) ResourcesMental Health Hotline: 866-903-3787A word from our sponsors:Factor: This September, get Factor and enjoy eating well without the hassle. Head to factormeals.com/believable50 and use code believable 50 to get 50% off.Quince: Take the drama out of planning an outfit and upgrade your closet with Quince today. Go to quince.com/coco for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sep 14, 2023 • 55min
The Cocoverse Crumbles
Coco Berthmann's web of lies crumbles as her cancer diagnosis is exposed and her manipulative behavior is confronted. The podcast delves into Coco's coming out journey amidst conflicting religious beliefs. The controversy surrounding Coco and Jessie on TikTok is also discussed. The delayed release and TED talk controversy add to the aftermath of Coco's deceit, highlighting the lack of accountability.

Sep 7, 2023 • 48min
Time to Call in an Expert
Forensic Psychiatrist Dr. Sohom Das discusses Coco Birthman's fabrications and manipulative behavior, questioning her motives and desire for attention. They explore the potential for sexual abuse and the lack of boundaries in her therapist-patient relationship. The chapter also examines Coco's complex relationship with her mother and the concept of splitting in borderline personality disorder.

Aug 31, 2023 • 46min
All Hell Breaks Loose
Coco's lies about her connection to Celine Dion, her mental health, and the human cost of her deception are explored. Coco's strange behavior leading up to her cancer diagnosis and her pursuit of singing dreams are also discussed. Debunking Coco's disturbing allegations, Nicole's doubt, and Coco's determination to meet Celine Dion are additional highlights.

Aug 24, 2023 • 50min
No Drama Mama
The podcast explores Coco's accusations against her therapist who held her hostage and abused her, uncovering a potential unethical therapist who may have acted illegally. The host reflects on Coco's tendencies to lie and manipulate while raising doubts about her claims. The chapter also discusses the controversial topic of therapists living with their clients and explores Coco's pattern of lying and manipulation.

Aug 17, 2023 • 50min
On the Record
Coco Berthmann's desperate attempts to stay in the US lead her to collaborate on a book, seek a documentary exposing an anti-trafficking organization, and file rape charges. However, doubts about her identity and credibility arise. The podcast explores controversies, RocketMoney, allegations against Tim Ballard and Paul Hutchinson, and concerns about Coco's fabrications and drug use.

Aug 10, 2023 • 46min
Why is There a Helicopter?
Coco's lies gain popularity, especially among conspiracy theorists who spread her videos worldwide. Child sex trafficking organizations are questioning Coco's story but still supporting her publicly and profiting. The podcast explores Coco's exaggerated stories, her training and fundraising efforts, and the unrealistic portrayal of child sex trafficking. It also discusses the misconceptions and sensationalism surrounding sex trafficking and teases the escalating nature of Coco's tales.

Aug 3, 2023 • 48min
Almost Everything She Says… Is True
The investigation into Coco Berthmann's past reveals contradicting evidence from her mother and suspicions toward her mother's former boyfriend. Coco's claims of abuse started at age 12. The search for Gregor, the suspect, intensifies. The hosts address resources for those in need and share sponsor messages.

Jul 27, 2023 • 42min
Unforced Errors
Coco Berthmann's story of abuse and survival is questioned due to her frequent lies, while her influential social media presence leads to recognition and opportunities. The podcast explores Coco's manipulative behavior and the impact of her traumatic past. It also delves into the aftermath of discovering her lies and the loss of trust experienced by those close to her. The importance of believing survivors and investigating allegations is emphasized.

Jul 20, 2023 • 48min
Stuck In The Desert With Satan
A young German au pair in Las Vegas forms a friendship with a Mormon instructor, sharing stories of abuse and faith. The podcast explores Coco's traumatic past and her connection to Celine Dion, which turns out to be a hoax. It delves into the investigation surrounding Coco's credibility and the empathy shown towards the victims of her deception.