Criminal

In this compelling discussion, Denise Chan, a seasoned journalist and the host of Scam Factory, dives into the harrowing tale of Jella, a 26-year-old caught in a web of human trafficking. Listeners learn how Jella transitioned from an unfulfilling job to facing deception and exploitation in Thailand. Chan sheds light on the frightening realities of sextortion and manipulative schemes, alongside the chilling experiences of those trafficked to Myanmar. The dire search for escape strategies highlights the bravery and resilience of victims fighting against systemic exploitation.

Ben Hopkins and Morton LeGarthe, creative directors in London, discuss their innovative AI project, Daisy, designed to combat phone scams. They humorously narrate the challenges faced during scam calls, showcasing Daisy's clever interactions with scammers. The conversation touches on the rise of grandparent scams, emphasizing resilience among the elderly, and highlights the darker side of AI in facilitating deception. Personal anecdotes and engaging banter provide insights into the creative process behind DAISY, making this a captivating exploration of technology and its implications.

E. Jean Carroll, a renowned writer and advice columnist, opens up about her challenging legal battles against Donald Trump after publicly accusing him of sexual assault. She candidly discusses the emotional toll of online vitriol and her decision to come forward, inspired by the #MeToo movement. Carroll shares humorous and unsettling anecdotes from her past, including encounters with Trump, and her journey of resilience in facing trauma. She also touches on the legal implications of recent rulings and her commitment to support other sexual assault survivors with potential monetary awards.

Joel Anderson, a seasoned reporter known for his in-depth storytelling, interviews Jabar Gibson, who played a pivotal role during Hurricane Katrina. They discuss the dire conditions in the Fischer Housing Projects and Jabar's courageous plan to escape on a commandeered school bus. Anderson reveals Jabar’s transformation from a heroic figure saving lives to facing legal troubles post-disaster, shedding light on the complex aftermath of survival and media attention. Their conversation captures the resilience and humanity amidst chaos.

Jessica Maple, a former junior district attorney camp participant, shares her inspiring story of solving a burglary case at her great-grandmother's house at age 12. She describes her journey from a conflicted camper to a determined young investigator, equipped with a notebook and a desire for justice. The podcast highlights other young heroes who tackle crimes in their communities, featuring one child's adventure to retrieve stolen furniture and another group’s quest to find a missing woman. It's a heartwarming exploration of courage and collaboration!

Join reporter Jessica Lessenhop, known for her investigative work at ProPublica, and Carrie Sperling, Assistant Attorney General at the Minnesota Attorney General's office, as they dive deep into the troubling case of Edgar Barrientos. They discuss the controversy surrounding the portrayal of Jesse's tragic shooting in reality TV, the flaws in the original investigation, and the new findings that challenge Barrientos' conviction. The emotional impact on victims' families and the media's role in shaping public perception of crime adds another layer to this gripping discussion.

Guest Abbott Kahler is the author of "Eden Undone: A True Story of Sex, Murder, and Utopia at the Dawn of World War II." He discusses the bizarre history of the Galapagos island of Floriana, where eight settlers arrived in the 1930s, leading to mysterious disappearances and murders. Kahler shares riveting tales of Frederick Ritter and his radical lifestyle, the ambitious Baroness's dramatic entrance, and the tensions that escalated among the inhabitants. Intrigued by secrets and societal rejection, the narrative unfolds into a gripping tale of survival and chaos.

Ian Mallory, a detective with the University of Iowa Police Department, and Brittany Mejia, an L.A. Times reporter, dive into the perplexing case of two men claiming to be William Woods. They discuss the absurdity of overlapping identities and the chaos surrounding one man's struggles with homelessness and mental health. The complexities of identity theft lead to wrongful imprisonment and an emotional courtroom encounter. Together, they shed light on the profound impact of these intertwining lives and the challenges of reclaiming one's identity.

In a deep dive into the vibrant East Village of the 1980s, the tragic story of Michael Stewart unfolds, exploring the artistic chaos and personal struggles that defined the era. The podcast highlights the unsettling moments surrounding police violence and the reluctance of bystanders to intervene. With a focus on the controversial autopsy that raised questions about accountability, listeners are taken through protests and the community's response to police brutality. The echoes of Stewart's case resonate through societal reflections on art and justice.

Jeff Signorini, son of the notorious Clearwater Monster, shares hilarious tales about his father’s pranks that sparked a local legend. Journalist Jeff Klinkenberg provides a vivid account of the town's wild reactions when gigantic, three-toed footprints appeared on the beach, igniting imaginations about a sea creature. The duo delves into the whimsical hoax behind the rumors, with anecdotes about Ivan Sanderson's captivating personality and the creative mischief that brought the community together in laughter.