American Scandal

A podcast discusses police corruption in Baltimore and the arrest of the Gun Trace Task Force. It explores factors that contributed to corruption, the consequences of aggressive policing strategies, and the rise of Mayor O'Malley's Zero Tolerance approach. The podcast also highlights incidents of false reports, a chaotic car chase, questionable tactics, and the planned thefts by corrupt officers.

Ted Kaczynski, a former academic prodigy, opens up about his tumultuous youth filled with rejection and isolation. He navigates the painful experiences of high school and the demanding environment at Harvard, where his longing for connection starkly contrasts with feelings of alienation. The discussion delves into his dark transformation, fueled by humiliation and a desire for revenge against modern society. Kaczynski's radicalization and the psychological turmoil leading to his infamous actions are examined in gripping detail.

The podcast dives into the tumultuous life of Aaron Hernandez, exploring his rise from a promising athlete to a tragic figure. It examines signs of troubling behavior dating back to his college days, compounded by immense pressures in the NFL. The chilling link between his actions and a neurological condition called CTE is discussed, raising questions about athlete mental health. Chaotic incidents, legal woes, and the high stakes of his career are highlighted, painting a complex portrait of resilience amid rising challenges.

The podcast explores the devastating effects of the Dust Bowl in the southern Great Plains, discussing federal policies, over-farming, and fraudulent tactics used by land salesmen. It follows the story of a determined farmer trying to overcome the drought and tap into groundwater for irrigation. The surge in agricultural production and the rise of businessmen exploiting the land for profit are also explored. The podcast highlights the stock market crash of 1929, its economic collapse, and the ecological crisis that arose from the abandonment of land.

Reverend Jim Jones, a young preacher forms his own church to spread a radical political message. The podcast delves into his early years and disillusionment with Christian churches, his pursuit of socialist beliefs, and his progression as a preacher. It explores the events surrounding the Jonestown massacre, questioning how a community based on social justice could end in tragedy. It also highlights Jones' impressive clairvoyant abilities and his decision to start his own racially integrated church.

The podcast delves into the Abscam operation, a political corruption investigation. It explores the recruitment of master con artist Mel Weinberg as an informant by the FBI, and the proposal of using a front-end loan scheme to lure in white-collar criminals. The operation gains momentum as Weinberg records calls and investigates corrupt politicians, discussing the Arab Sheik's plan to invest in casinos and a corrupt deal involving casino licenses.

Spiro Agnew is trapped in a dead-end job. But Agnew has large ambitions, and with the urging of his mentor, the future vice president decides to take a risk.Want to listen to the remaining episodes of Spiro Agnew: Downfall of a Vice President? Episodes 2-5 are available exclusively and ad-free on Wondery+. 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/rUic7i1hMNb now.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Richard Sackler charts a new course for his family’s company, Purdue Pharma. At the center of the plan: a painkiller that could be the next blockbuster drug. Want to listen to the remaining episodes of Opioids in America? Episodes 2-5 are available exclusively and ad-free on Wondery+. 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/rUic7i1hMNb now.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two Pennsylvania judges hatch a plan. If they pull it off, they'll score nearly a million dollars.Want to listen to the remaining episodes of The "Kids for Cash" Kickback Scheme? Episodes 2-4 are available exclusively and ad-free on Wondery+. 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/rUic7i1hMNb now.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Protesters descend on Chicago for the Democratic National Convention. Their goal: pressure the Democrats to stop supporting the Vietnam War. But as the activists begin their rally, Chicago police mount an aggressive response.Want to listen to the remaining episodes of The Chicago Seven? Episodes 2-4 are available exclusively and ad-free on Wondery+. 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/rUic7i1hMNb now.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.