The Queen
Linda Taylor was a con artist, a kidnapper, maybe even a murderer. She was also America’s original “welfare queen,” the villain Ronald Reagan needed to create a vision of a country being taken advantage of by its poorest citizens. In The Queen, Josh Levin reveals the never-before-told story of a woman whose singular life was forgotten in the rush to create a vicious American stereotype.Want more of The Queen? Subscribe to Slate Plus to immediately access all episodes of The Queen (and your other favorite Slate podcasts) completely ad-free. Plus, you’ll unlock subscriber-exclusive bonus episodes that bring you behind-the-scenes on the making of the show. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Or, visit slate.com/thequeenplus to get access wherever you listen.
Latest episodes
Jun 17, 2019 • 24min
An Audiobook Preview
Listen to January LaVoy narrate the first chapter of The Queen: The Forgotten Life Behind an American Myth. Explore Detective Sherwin's investigations in 1974 Chicago, his encounter with Linda Taylor's bizarre circumstances, and the shifting racial dynamics of the city. Follow the mysterious relationship between Jones and Linda Sholvia, leading to unconventional burglary investigations and potential leads with the Michigan State Police.
Jun 11, 2019 • 22min
How to Write This Book
Dan Kois and Josh Levin discuss the process of writing a reporting-intensive book with a panel of distinguished authors. They explore turning ideas into books, selective storytelling, and the importance of honesty in writing.
Jun 10, 2019 • 13min
The Kidnapping of Baby Fronczak
Paul Joseph Fronczak discusses his search for his true identity and the potential connection to the 1964 baby kidnapping case involving Linda Taylor. The podcast explores the emotional journey of uncovering a mistaken identity, DNA testing revelations, and investigations into the notorious child abduction.
Jun 7, 2019 • 5min
4. Bobbie and Diana
In this captivating episode, Bobbie's story details how she helped a vulnerable family escape the Jim Crow South, while Diana's tale involves kidnapping a child and possibly causing her husband's death. These two intriguing stories shed light on the enigmatic and impactful life of Linda Taylor.
Jun 6, 2019 • 7min
3. Constance
Unveiling the enigmatic past of a controversial figure, the podcast delves into Linda Taylor's scandalous impersonation as the heir to a fortune, full of lies and surprise witnesses. This episode offers a glimpse into Taylor's troubled past and real identity, shedding light on the forgotten life behind an American myth.
Jun 5, 2019 • 5min
2. An Incredible Con
A pair of men in the 1970s had contrasting views on Linda Taylor, with one seeing her as a symbol of a broken system and the other as a scapegoat. This episode delves into the complexities of her story and the impact it had on welfare policies.
Jun 4, 2019 • 25min
1. Coronation
Delve into the true story of Linda Taylor, the infamous welfare queen, and the investigative work of journalist George Bliss. Explore the controversy surrounding Taylor's fraudulent schemes and Reagan's influence on welfare reform. Uncover the legal battle and life-altering encounters linked to Taylor's deception.
May 6, 2019 • 2min
Introducing... The Queen
Discover the enigmatic life of Linda Taylor, a con artist and 'welfare queen' who became the face of America's social welfare debate. Uncover the truth behind the myths and stereotypes surrounding her mysterious and forgotten life.
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