
American Scandal
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.
Latest episodes

Apr 22, 2025 • 41min
ENCORE: Edward Snowden | Meet the Press | 1
Filmmaker Laura Poitras gets a tip from a mysterious informant. Despite the enormous risks, Poitras pursues the story, and teams up with reporter Glenn Greenwald.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen to American Scandal on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting wondery.com/links/american-scandal/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 15, 2025 • 35min
Quiz Show Rigging | The Pressure Cooker | 5
In this engaging discussion, Howard Blumenthal, a longtime TV producer and co-founder of the National Archives of Game Show History, and Bob Boden, executive producer and fellow co-founder, reflect on the quiz show scandals of the 1950s. They share insights about Howard's father's ties to the rigged quiz show 'Twenty-One' and explore the ethical dilemmas faced by contestants. They also discuss the innovative production techniques that shaped early game shows and examine how these scandals influenced modern television ethics and audience trust.

8 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 39min
Quiz Show Rigging | Deception | 4
The intense world of quiz shows takes center stage as a producer attempts to silence an accuser through staged evidence. A whistleblower reveals critical proof that escalates the drama, igniting a Congressional hearing. Shocking testimonies highlight the heartbreaking reality of rigged outcomes and the emotional toll on contestants. With various individuals facing indictment, the scandal forces the television industry to confront its ethics and strive for a restoration of public trust.

4 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 38min
Quiz Show Rigging | Consolation Prize | 3
Explore the emotional struggle of Herbert Stemple as he grapples with his past as a quiz show champion, overshadowed by the unfair rise of Charles Van Doren. Dive into the manipulation and deceit behind the scenes of the 1950s quiz show '21', where contestants confront moral dilemmas and the reality of rigged games. Tension escalates as they discover evidence of cheating, leading to potential legal action and a fight for integrity in the quiz show world.

Mar 31, 2025 • 6min
Listen Now: Don’t Cross Kat
Dive into the world of Kat Torres, the glamorous influencer with a perfect life that hides dark secrets. As her followers are mesmerized by her allures of witchcraft and luxury, one brave friend embarks on a quest to find her missing companion. Unravel the twisted dynamics of influence, manipulation, and the shocking truth lurking beneath a facade of charm and beauty. This gripping tale reveals the dangers of obsession with modern idols and the lengths some will go to reclaim what’s lost.

Mar 25, 2025 • 36min
Quiz Show Rigging | The Perfect Contestant | 2
Herbert Stempel is lured into the glamorous world of rigged quiz shows, enjoying fame until producers seek new talent. The search for a fresh face reveals Charles Van Doren's dramatic potential. Ethical dilemmas and emotional turmoil unfold as Stempel grapples with betrayal and the allure of quick fame. Behind the scenes, manipulation runs rampant, leading to major revelations about the quiz show industry and the dark costs of fame.

Mar 18, 2025 • 38min
Quiz Show Rigging | All the Answers | 1
In the 1950s, America was captivated by high-stakes television quiz shows like The $64,000 Question and Twenty-One, which promised everyday Americans a shot at life-changing winnings. But behind the scenes, producers decided they couldn’t leave the drama to chance. They needed to ensure that the most compelling contestants battled it out week after week, setting the stage for a fraud that would shake the entire industry. Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter Listen to American Scandal on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting wondery.com/links/american-scandal/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mar 11, 2025 • 36min
Muhammad Ali vs. The Draft | Black Athletes and Activism | 4
Muhammad Ali risked his career and even his freedom to take a stand against the Vietnam War. He followed in the footsteps of men like baseball great Jackie Robinson and singer Paul Robeson, who started out playing football. These Black athletes are all part of a heritage of working for social justice, according to journalist Howard Bryant. Today, Bryant joins Lindsay to talk about his book The Heritage: Black Athletes, A Divided America, and the Politics of Patriotism. Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen to American Scandal on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting wondery.com/links/american-scandal/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mar 4, 2025 • 41min
Muhammad Ali vs. The Draft | The Final Round | 3
By 1969, Muhammad Ali is at a crossroads, his career and freedom hanging in the balance as his draft evasion case reaches the Supreme Court. Behind closed doors, justices clash over his fate, and an unexpected voice shapes the final decision. Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen to American Scandal on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting wondery.com/links/american-scandal/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

19 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 40min
Muhammad Ali vs. The Draft | What’s My Name? | 2
Oscar Smith, an attorney with the Department of Justice, offers insight into the tumultuous legal battle of Muhammad Ali against the draft during the Vietnam War. He discusses Ali's brave refusal to serve, grounded in his religious beliefs, despite facing severe backlash and losing his title. The conversation highlights the societal pressures and the internal conflict within the legal system regarding Ali's exemption. Smith also delves into the emotional challenges Ali faced, including tensions with the Nation of Islam and the repercussions on his personal life.
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