
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

Jul 3, 2025 • 44min
ENCORE Watergate | The Smoking Gun | 5
Nixon grapples with the fallout from the Watergate scandal while recuperating in the hospital. The tension escalates as the special prosecutor demands the release of secret tapes. A pivotal moment arrives during the 'Saturday Night Massacre,' highlighting the clash between executive power and justice. As Nixon faces potential impeachment, he confronts the reality of his presidency unraveling. Listeners witness his emotional farewell and the relentless pursuit of truth by journalists, underscoring the scandal's lasting impact.

20 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 41min
ENCORE: Watergate | The Cancer Within | 4
Dive into the gripping saga of the Watergate scandal, where L. Patrick Gray faces a daunting Senate hearing, weighing loyalty to Nixon against the FBI's integrity. John Dean wrestles with his conscience as he navigates a web of betrayal, looking for immunity while contemplating the dire consequences of exposing powerful figures. Additionally, explore the heartbreaking experiences of teenage mothers forced into adoption during this turbulent era—highlighting how personal stories intersect with political chaos. The stakes couldn't be higher!

19 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 42min
ENCORE: Watergate | The Fifth Man | 3
Journalists Woodward and Bernstein uncover unsettling truths about President Nixon's chief of staff, revealing deep political corruption. Their relentless search for the truth leads them to the elusive informant Deep Throat, intensifying the dangers of their investigation. As legal pressures mount, the credibility of their findings is challenged, prompting a reassessment of their approach. Meanwhile, Nixon's aides engage in moral dilemmas to manage the fallout, showcasing the intricate loyalties and ethics at play within the Oval Office.

29 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 41min
ENCORE: Watergate | The President's Daughter | 2
A young reporter at The Washington Post stumbles into the Watergate scandal just as a burglary shakes the political landscape. Journalists uncover a web of conspiracy that ties back to the Nixon administration, raising the stakes and tensions. G. Gordon Liddy battles the fallout, while Bob Woodward makes critical connections revealing the scandal's depth. As Nixon grapples with moral dilemmas and tries to thwart the FBI, the pursuit of truth intensifies, spotlighting the risks journalists face in exposing hidden corruption.

19 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 40min
ENCORE: Watergate | The Break In | 1
Dive into the origins of the Watergate scandal, where a seemingly minor burglary spirals into political chaos. Discover how Nixon's risky tactics aimed to secure reelection and unravel the ethical dilemmas faced by his administration. As pressure mounts, witness the internal struggles of a president grappling with self-doubt and the dire consequences of his decisions. Tension runs high during covert operations, revealing a web of espionage that changed American politics forever.

Jun 23, 2025 • 6min
Listen Now: Liberty Lost
Explore the harrowing journey of pregnant teens at a hidden facility, where societal and familial pressures dictate their futures. Discover the emotional turmoil of young mothers like Abbi, who struggle between coerced adoptions and fighting for their right to parent. The poignant stories unveil the dark realities of forced adoption practices and the challenges faced by those navigating these difficult choices. This gripping narrative reveals both the anguish and defiance of girls standing up against a system that dismisses their voices.

Jun 17, 2025 • 43min
Georgia Tann Interview | Guest T.J. Raphael "Liberty Lost" Podcast Host | 5
T.J. Raphael, a journalist and host of the podcast Liberty Lost, dives deep into the harrowing legacy of Georgia Tann and the ongoing coercive practices at the Liberty Godparent Home. She unpacks how vulnerable young women are pressured into giving up their babies and explores the troubling intersections of faith, politics, and profit. The conversation sheds light on personal struggles faced by young mothers and critiques systemic issues within the adoption industry, offering a compelling call for reform and better support for those in crisis.

11 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 37min
The Woman Who Sold Babies | The Cold Hard Hand | 4
In the shadows of Memphis, Georgia Tann thrives in her black-market baby trading scheme, building a powerful empire. As health issues arise, so do cracks in her operation, revealing a mix of treachery and advocacy. A couple faces heart-wrenching choices against a backdrop of societal pressure in their pursuit of adoption. Whispers of child trafficking grow as activists push for justice. The final days of Tann unravel as legal challenges mount, exposing systemic failures and a legacy that impacts child welfare for generations.

Jun 3, 2025 • 38min
The Woman Who Sold Babies | Sitting on a Goldmine | 3
Georgia Tann turns her illegal adoption ring into a lucrative business, but questions start to be asked about the high number of children dying in Memphis.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.

9 snips
May 27, 2025 • 38min
The Woman Who Sold Babies | Supply and Demand | 2
Explore the chilling world of Georgia Tann, who manipulated vulnerable families during the Great Depression to expand her adoption empire. Tensions rise as Judge Camille Kelly's inspection threatens the Sisters of the Good Shepherd Orphanage. Hear the heartbreaking story of a mother fighting to keep her children against Tann's ruthless tactics. Delve into the disturbing Christmas Child Giveaway, where children were treated as commodities. This dark tale raises profound moral questions about exploitation and the true nature of love and family.