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
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.
Jul 28, 2025 • 5min
Listen Now: Lawless Planet
Explore the gripping tales of environmental devastation in the race against climate change. From the eerie disappearance of a coal miner to a woman's desperate call for help, dark secrets and corrupt practices come to light. The podcast reveals the stark realities faced by activists fighting for justice amidst the chaos of pollution and industry. Each story uncovers the shocking choices that place our planet’s future in jeopardy, painting a vivid picture of a world on the brink.
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.
30 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 38min
Ruby Ridge Standoff | Visions of Armageddon | 1
Radical Christian survivalist Randy Weaver's life takes a turbulent turn as he retreats to Idaho, waiting for the Apocalypse. His growing links to neo-Nazi groups attract federal scrutiny. The podcast dives into the chaos of the Ruby Ridge standoff, examining Weaver's disillusionment rooted in military misconduct. It also explores his family's transformation from faith to a survivalist mentality and the shadows of extremism that loom over their isolated existence. Tension escalates as government agents grapple with the complexities of infiltrating radical circles.
18 snips
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.
