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
11 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 35min
West Memphis Three | Crime and Punishment | 2
The brutal murders of three young boys in West Memphis spark a controversial investigation. A suspect's confession leads to the arrest of two teenagers accused of a satanic ritual. Families voice doubts as contradictions emerge in the confession. Autopsy results raise questions about the planted narrative of sexual assault. Tensions climb during the trial, with defense attorneys challenging critical inconsistencies. Throughout, the prosecutor paints the accused as embodiments of evil, culminating in a shocking guilty verdict that shakes the community.
Nov 25, 2025 • 36min
West Memphis Three | The Devil comes to West Memphis | 1
In a shocking tale, three young boys are found murdered in West Memphis, triggering chaos in the small town. The overwhelmed police face immense pressure to solve the case, despite limited evidence. The investigation takes a dark turn with cult theories and dubious informants infiltrating the scene. A controversial confession from a suspect raises questions about coercion and credibility. This harrowing story uncovers the complexities of crime, suspicion, and the struggle for justice in the face of overwhelming tragedy.
21 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 32min
Deepwater Horizon - Choosing Profits over the Planet | 5
Zach Goldbaum, an investigative journalist and host of Lawless Planet, dives into the dark side of corporate accountability over environmental disasters. He explores how climate crises like Deepwater Horizon are often mishandled as accidents rather than crimes. The conversation reveals the stark disparity in legal treatment between activists and corporate leaders, as well as the oil industry's immense power and influence. Goldbaum emphasizes the need for individual accountability, while also shedding light on the challenges of the renewable energy transition.
20 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 37min
Deepwater Horizon | The Insidious War | 4
As the Deepwater Horizon disaster unfolds, BP struggles to manage the narrative while oil leaks wreak havoc in the Gulf. Wildlife rescue efforts highlight the impact on oiled pelicans. Internal estimates reveal the company may have downplayed the spill's severity, sparking public outrage. Tony Hayward's infamous PR blunder only escalates tensions. Legal challenges and regulatory failures lead to a push for accountability, ultimately forcing BP to set aside billions for victims. The investigation reveals preventable errors shaped by a dangerous corporate culture.
20 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 36min
Deepwater Horizon | The Summer of Tears | 3
The podcast reveals the chaotic moments surrounding the Deepwater Horizon explosion, with crew members fighting for survival amidst flames. As oil begins to spill into the Gulf, the environmental disaster unfolds, impacting local communities. Survivors face traumatic interviews and guilt while BP’s early estimates clash with the reality of a massive ecological crisis. Fishermen express distrust toward BP’s compensation offers, fearing they hide ulterior motives. Cleanup efforts reveal harsh realities as locals grapple with the fallout of this catastrophe.
Oct 28, 2025 • 34min
Deepwater Horizon I The Well from Hell | 2
When Chief Electronics Technician Mike Williams joins the Deepwater Horizon in 2009, he’s told it’s the safest rig in the world. But as BP rushes to finish drilling the Macondo well, systems fail and standards slip—with disastrous consequences.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.
Oct 21, 2025 • 38min
Deepwater Horizon | No One Was Listening | 1
In the 1990s, BP executive John Browne bets the oil company’s future on high-risk, high-reward drilling projects. But BP’s thirst for profit comes at a price. As safety violations and fatalities mount, Jeanne Pascal, a lawyer at the Environmental Protection Agency, fights to hold BP accountable.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.
11 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 41min
The Plague of San Francisco | From Plague to COVID: What We Still Haven’t Learned | 5
Dr. Howard Markel, a physician and medical historian, discusses the haunting legacy of the 1900 San Francisco plague and its connections to today's public health crisis. He emphasizes the importance of trust, early action, and transparency in combating epidemics. Markel explores how leaders often hide outbreaks for political and economic reasons and warns against scapegoating in times of crisis. He advocates for improved public health communication and highlights heroes like Anthony Fauci, stressing the need for continued investment in public health systems to prepare for future pandemics.
9 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 38min
The Plague of San Francisco | The Golden City | 4
Dr. Rupert Blue battles apathy and political pushback to eradicate rats in plague-stricken San Francisco. Tragedy strikes with the devastating 1906 earthquake, leading to a health crisis in refugee camps. As outbreaks resurge, Blue campaigns for sanitation funds and unites a citywide effort against the plague. Tension builds as he decides whether to allow the Great White Fleet to dock. Ultimately, victory is declared, though the plague lingers in rural areas, reminding listeners of the lasting impact of public health crises.
21 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 36min
The Plague of San Francisco | Duty and Truth | 3
In a gripping narrative, Dr. Joseph Kinyoun battles to bring the plague crisis in San Francisco to public attention, facing political resistance from Governor Gage. The episode highlights his determination to speak the truth, even as he is sidelined by powerful figures. Dr. Rupert Blue emerges, gaining trust in Chinatown and grappling with the dire consequences of suspended sanitation measures. As infections spread, the stakes rise, showcasing the interplay of public health and politics during a chaotic epidemic.
