In the high-stakes world of aviation, pressure mounts as Boeing rushes to compete with Airbus. Engineers face a perilous dilemma, opting for a software solution, MCAS, to fix the 737 MAX's issues without alerting pilots. This decision leads to tension as safety standards clash with corporate priorities. Tragedy unfolds when malfunctioning planes result in chaos and dire consequences. The podcast explores the ethical dilemmas and disillusionment within Boeing's culture, highlighting a pivotal moment in aviation history.

Harry Stonecipher, a former Boeing leader, discusses his controversial shift from engineering integrity to a focus on stock price after the McDonnell Douglas merger. He reveals the internal conflicts that arose as safety concerns grew amid cost-cutting pressures. The conversation highlights Boeing's struggle against Airbus and the urgency that led to compromised practices in the 737 MAX development. Stonecipher candidly reflects on the intense scrutiny following the crashes and the high-stress environment faced by engineers.

In this conversation, Dennis Muilenburg, the former CEO of Boeing, discusses the tragic crash of Lion Air Flight 610. He reflects on the initial confusion regarding the disaster's cause and the subsequent revelations about the MCAS software. Muilenburg addresses the intense scrutiny Boeing faced after both the Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines crashes. The dialogue offers insight into corporate negligence, the emotional toll on victims' families, and the broader implications for aviation safety practices.

Nathan Masters, host of PBS's Lost LA and author focusing on the Harding era's corruption, dives deep into the infamous Teapot Dome scandal. He reveals shocking insights from archival research, detailing how high-level officials exploited their positions during the presidency of Warren G. Harding. Masters highlights the efforts of Senator Burton K. Wheeler and journalist integrity in uncovering the truth behind the corruption. Their investigation uncovered a landscape riddled with bribery, shaking public trust in government and leaving a lasting political legacy.

Join Albert Fall, the convicted architect of the Teapot Dome scandal, Edward Doheny, the influential oil tycoon, and Harry Sinclair, a businessman caught in legal turmoil. They dive into the gripping details of the Senate inquiry headed by Thomas Walsh, revealing the outrageous bribery and power struggles. Hear about the contempt charges faced by wealthy witnesses and the stark realities of justice for the elite versus ordinary citizens, as Sinclair wrestles with courtroom dramas and the stark truth of his past.

Teapot Dome investigator Thomas Walsh uncovers evidence of bribery, leading to defiance from Albert Fall, Edward Doheny, and Harry Sinclair. The investigation reveals tangled financial schemes and prompts action from President Coolidge. Sinclair's political maneuvering and impending legal troubles add intensity to the Teapot Dome scandal.

Democratic leaders and oil men outraged by shady oil leases; Senator Walsh leads investigation; Fall seeks kickbacks; Harding and Coolidge administrations implicated; Walsh faces obstacles in Teapot Dome scandal probe; Fahl evasive in testimony; scandal unfolds with corruption and political maneuvering.

The podcast delves into the secret deals that helped Warren G. Harding become President, focusing on the controversial leasing of the Teapot Dome oil field to oil magnates Sinclair and Doheny. It explores political maneuvering, corrupt actions by Albert Fall, and the rise of scandal surrounding the naval oil reserves.

Investigative reporter Charles E. Shepard discusses his coverage of televangelist Jim Bakker's financial crimes and sexual assault. Topics include Bakker's lavish spending, scandal involving Jessica Hahn, and his eventual downfall and imprisonment.

Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker's empire crumbles in 1987 due to scandal. Facing intense scrutiny, legal battles, and a high-profile trial. After Jim's guilty verdict, he starts a new ministry focused on apocalypse preparation and faces legal troubles in 2021.