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
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.
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.
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.
40 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!
22 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.
39 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 41min
ENCORE: Watergate | The President's Decision | 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.
