
American Scandal
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.
Latest episodes

Jul 23, 2024 • 38min
Teapot Dome | An Extraordinary Transaction | 3
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.

14 snips
Jul 16, 2024 • 43min
Teapot Dome | Boiling Over | 2
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.

Jul 9, 2024 • 39min
Teapot Dome | A Mammoth Deal | 1
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.

Jul 2, 2024 • 41min
Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker | Bringing Down the Bakkers | 4
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.

Jun 25, 2024 • 40min
Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker | Holy War | 3
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.

Jun 18, 2024 • 39min
Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker | Hush Money | 2
Former PTL staff member Jim Bakker faces accusations of financial misconduct and attempts to silence whistleblowers. Reporter Charles Shepard investigates allegations of sexual assault involving Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker, leading to negotiations for a settlement. Financial troubles and legal consequences loom over Jim Bakker as scandals unfold at PTL, culminating in his resignation amidst controversy.

Jun 11, 2024 • 38min
Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker | Faith Not Fact | 1
Evangelical leader Jim Bakker faces publicized trial for alleged sexual assault and business decisions after empire falls apart in 1987. Podcast discusses their rise to fame, strained relationship with wife Tammy Faye, and legal issues over fund misallocation.

May 7, 2024 • 41min
Love Canal | The Education of Lois Gibbs | 1
In this podcast, Lois Gibbs, a mother and activist, shares her journey in fighting for the cleanup of Love Canal. The podcast covers the transformation of Love Canal into a toxic waste site, residents' health concerns, and Gibbs' efforts in forming a group to clean up the neighborhood. It highlights the challenges faced by the community and the determination to protect their families and environment.

Apr 2, 2024 • 41min
FBI Agent Turned Russian Spy | World of Secrets | 1
Former FBI agent Robert Hanssen turns into a Russian spy during the Cold War, selling valuable information to the Soviet Union. The podcast explores his social awkwardness, resentment towards his employers, and his transition from a white-collar job to espionage. It also delves into his complex relationship with his father, struggles for acceptance within the intelligence community, and the inner turmoil of betraying his country for financial gain.

Feb 27, 2024 • 39min
Rod Blagojevich | Making of a Congressman | 1
Follow the rise of Rod Blagojevich in Chicago politics and his determination to prove himself in the political arena. Explore the charismatic encounter and connection with Patti, as well as the intertwining paths of love, loss, and political ambition. Witness the importance of family concerns and political integrity, along with Blagojevich's strategic campaign planning and crucial election win.
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