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
Oct 21, 2025 • 37min
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.
11 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.
26 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 40min
The Plague of San Francisco | The Wolf Doctor | 2
In the heart of San Francisco, a plague emerges, prompting Dr. Joseph Kinyoun to spearhead an inoculation plan met with fierce backlash. Distrust brews in Chinatown, where locals reject the Haffkin serum amid political turmoil. Federal quarantine orders clash with business interests, escalating tensions in the city. Meanwhile, celebrity doctor Dr. George F. Schrader's sudden reversal undermines public confidence. As Kinyoun battles courtroom setbacks and scathing media, the chilling reality of the plague is confirmed through autopsy results, calling for urgent intervention.
20 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 40min
The Plague in San Francisco | The Year of the Rat | 1
A deadly bubonic plague outbreak strikes San Francisco, igniting a fierce battle between a determined bacteriologist and indifferent politicians. Tensions rise as health officials implement quarantines in Chinatown, revealing deep-rooted societal prejudices. The tragic story of Wong Chut King, the first plague victim on the mainland, underscores the immigrant struggle during a time of crisis. As fear spreads, the urgency to confront the disease clashes with profits and power, revealing the dark side of public health responses.
12 snips
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.
13 snips
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.
