American Scandal
Wondery
Every scandal begins with a lie. But the truth will come out. And then comes the fallout and the outrage.Scandals have shaped America since its founding. From business and politics to sports and society, we look on aghast as corruption, deceit and ambition bring down heroes and celebrities, politicians and moguls. And when the dust finally settles, we’re left to wonder: how did this happen? Where did they trip up, and who is to blame? From the creators of American History Tellers, Business Wars and Tides of History comes American Scandal, where we take you deep into the heart of America’s dark side to look at what drives someone to break the rules and what happens when they’re caught. Hosted by Lindsay Graham.Need more American Scandal? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive seasons, binge new seasons first, and listen completely ad-free. Start your free trial in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or visit wondery.app.link/IM5aogASNNb now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 9, 2025 • 43min
The Massacre at My Lai | Interview | Rules of Engagement: How My Lai Changed the US Military | 5
Discover the harrowing details of the My Lai Massacre, where American soldiers killed hundreds of Vietnamese civilians. Explore the ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers and the heroic actions of whistleblower Hugh Thompson. Learn how this tragedy exposed the flaws in military conduct and led to important accountability reforms. Reflect on the evolving landscape of warfare and the necessity for clear rules of engagement. The discussion also touches on the enduring impact of these events on military ethics and future prevention of atrocities.
Sep 2, 2025 • 35min
The Massacre at My Lai | Justice on Trial | 4
Lieutenant William Calley faces trial for his role in the shocking My Lai Massacre, symbolizing a nation grappling with guilt and accountability. The courtroom becomes a battleground for differing views on justice among survivors, soldiers, and the public. As evidence of widespread military misconduct comes to light, Nixon's attempts to control the narrative add to the tension. The media plays a crucial role in exposing the truth, urging a society divided by war to confront its moral consequences.
10 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 35min
The Massacre at My Lai | Hunting Down Calley | 3
A soldier breaks the silence about the My Lai massacre, triggering a quest for justice that exposes military attempts to bury the truth. Investigative journalist Seymour Hersh grapples with accountability as he hunts down Lieutenant William Calley, the man accused of leading the massacre. Shocking evidence surfaces, including revealing photographs and soldier testimonies that spark national outrage. The narrative dives deep into the moral complexities of war, exploring betrayal, isolation, and the struggle for truth in the aftermath of atrocity.
10 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 35min
The Massacre at My Lai | Pinkville | 2
On March 16, 1968, Charlie Company lands in My Lai, expecting combat, but instead commits a horrific massacre against unarmed civilians. A former soldier shares his traumatic experiences, revealing moral dilemmas and the lasting toll of war. Warrant Officer Hugh Thompson provides a harrowing account of the chaos and confusion during the operation, while military leaders struggle to control the narrative. The aftermath exposes the tragic impact on both soldiers and civilians, highlighting the complexities and moral conflicts surrounding the devastating event.
10 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 34min
The Massacre at My Lai | The Road to My Lai | 1
Young soldiers in Vietnam face the brutal realities of war, culminating in the infamous My Lai massacre. As frustrations mount, perceptions shift, turning civilians into perceived threats. Whistleblowers and journalists play a crucial role in uncovering the tragic truth behind this atrocity. The psychological strain of military life and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers are highlighted, showcasing the harrowing experiences that lead to one of the Vietnam War's darkest moments.
Aug 11, 2025 • 7min
Business Wars Presents: The AOL-Time Warner Disaster
Dive into the tumultuous world of the AOL-Time Warner merger, a corporate saga marked by ambition and downfall. Discover how AOL's stock plummeted amidst internal strife and external pressures, revealing the chaos behind big business dreams. Uncover the ethically murky waters as AOL's team employs creative accounting to meet Wall Street's demanding expectations, stirring debates on financial integrity. This gripping tale of corporate disaster shows how ambition can lead to unexpected pitfalls in the tech landscape.
12 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 41min
Ruby Ridge Standoff | God, Guns, and Government: The Movement Shaping Modern Politics | 5
Sociologist Andrew Whitehead, author of 'American Idolatry,' discusses the disturbing rise of Christian nationalism and its historical roots in the Ruby Ridge standoff. He connects the Weavers' apocalyptic beliefs to today's extremism, revealing how these ideologies threaten democracy. Their alignment with militia groups raises concerns about power consolidation and anti-democratic trends. Whitehead also explores organized resistance against Christian nationalism, advocating for a more inclusive American identity.
33 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 39min
Ruby Ridge Standoff | Down from the Mountain | 4
Tensions escalate as negotiators scramble to resolve the Ruby Ridge standoff before FBI forces move in. The emotional turmoil is palpable as the Weaver family faces heartbreaking decisions amid increasing pressure. A determined attorney confronts the complexities of defending extremists, shifting focus to issues of government overreach. In a dramatic courtroom moment, a strategic pause dramatically alters perceptions of the Weavers. The aftermath reveals the lasting consequences on American culture, extremism, and distrust in government.
24 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 36min
Ruby Ridge Standoff | Deadly Force | 3
The podcast dives into the escalating conflict at Ruby Ridge, unraveling the tragic miscommunications that triggered a standoff. As tensions rise, the FBI's controversial change in rules of engagement leads to deadly consequences. Personal struggles of the Weaver family heighten the drama, especially after the loss of their son. Failed negotiation attempts add urgency to the dire situation. The narrative captures a complex view of all involved, revealing the chaos and emotional toll of this pivotal moment in American history.
17 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 34min
Ruby Ridge Standoff | Northern Exposure | 2
Randy Weaver's arrest sparks a chilling standoff with law enforcement, fueled by misunderstandings and extreme beliefs. Vicki Weaver's discovery of troubling correspondence heightens tensions and paranoia about government entrapment. As federal marshals strategize for a peaceful resolution, the challenge of managing an armed family escalates. The episode underscores the psychological and emotional turmoil experienced by both the Weavers and law enforcement, revealing the broader ramifications on civil liberties and the complexities of confrontational policing.
