

Ridiculous Crime
iHeartPodcasts
True Crime is more than blood, guts, mayhem, and murder. Zaron Burnett and Elizabeth Dutton share outlandish tales of capers, heists, and cons that shine a light on the absurd and outrageous side of criminality. Always 99% murder-free and 100% ridiculous, this is Ridiculous Crime, a podcast by iHeartRadio.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 27, 2025 • 54min
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Los Beetles (Americanos)!"
A clever Florida promoter thought he could cash in on Beatlemania by creating a tribute band, the American Beetles, to tour South America. Chaos ensues as fans mistake them for the real deal, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and identity crises. Along the way, they navigate politically charged environments in Argentina and Brazil, where censorship complicates their performances. Throw in some comical anecdotes of teen fandoms and a wild meeting between The Beatles and Bob Dylan, and you have a whirlwind of musical mishaps and cultural commentary.

10 snips
May 22, 2025 • 48min
For the Love of a Funny Girl: Nicky Arnstein
Delve into the colorful life of Nicky Arnstein, a con artist and cardsharp who charmed his way through high society. Discover his tumultuous romance with Fanny Brice and the loyalty that persisted even through scandal and imprisonment. Explore quirky discussions about human perception and vintage radio shows, alongside tales of gambling antics and romantic betrayals. As personal dramas unfold against the backdrop of historical events, uncover the intricate dance of fame, love, and crime that defines Arnstein's legacy.

8 snips
May 20, 2025 • 49min
The Great Del Taco Stock Debacle: You Got Jacked!
Dive into the wild world of minor league baseball scandals, where players gamble on Del Taco stock options! Hear about a quirky traffic stop involving a raccoon and a meth pipe. Explore the ethical dilemmas of insider trading through personal stories of ambition and resilience. Discover the hilarity and chaos of stock market volatility tied to a taco chain, while pondering the absurdities of consumer culture. It's a blend of humor and serious issues, revealing just how ridiculous crime can be in the pursuit of a payday!

10 snips
May 15, 2025 • 58min
Diva Up Energy: George Santos
Dive into the outrageous life of George Santos, a political figure with a knack for deception. Explore his tumultuous upbringing and the audacious lies that crafted his public image. Discover how his campaign finances raised eyebrows, turning absurd financial choices into a scandalous narrative. Hear about the backlash against his congressional career and the humor that can be found in political absurdity. From controversies to critical questions about accountability, this tale is as wild as it is enlightening!

6 snips
May 13, 2025 • 57min
Those Battlin' Bachs! Johann and Sebastian
Dive into the wild world of rock and classical music! Discover the outrageous life of Sebastian Bach, from hair metal antics to Broadway flair. Uncover the rebellious spirit of Johann Sebastian Bach, who defied norms while composing masterpieces. The tales weave through cultural quirks like bagpipe controversies and chaotic karaoke nights. Plus, laugh at irrational fears involving bites and rabies, all while celebrating the hilarity of rock star life and its unexpected parallels with classical genius!

8 snips
May 8, 2025 • 54min
Bad Boy Book Buddies: Marcus Schrenker and Matthew Cox
Dive into the outrageous lives of two con artists, masters of financial fraud. Their wild escapades include chaotic escape plans, a dramatic plane crash, and a tangle of shady schemes in finance. As their stories intertwine, expect a mix of humor and absurdity, revealing the deeper impacts of deception. Explore the rise and fall of their careers, the fallout on innocent victims, and one man's journey from deceit to redemption through writing. The blend of comedy, crime, and chaos keeps you entertained while contemplating the darker side of ambition.

May 6, 2025 • 59min
Hey Paal! Did You Steal Edvard Munch's "The Scream"?
A former footballer in the Norwegian league who was also a former street criminal jumped back in the game as a high-end art thief. He says he made Edvard Munch's painting "The Scream" famous by stealing it. We say his whole story is...ridiculous!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 1, 2025 • 60min
The Fixer: Lou Blonger
This guy was the other Soapy Smith, running crime rings in Denver, Colorado. A bunco magnate, he made his money off the naïveté of rube tourists. His stock market wasn't real but, then again, is any stock market real? Anyway, the King of the Bunks ran afoul of the law in the most intense way possible. And it was…ridiculous. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 52min
"You Try to Choke George Clooney, See How It Goes": the David O Russell Story
Dive into the chaotic realm of Hollywood as the hosts explore the notorious behaviors of directors like David O. Russell. Hear about the wild feud between Russell and George Clooney, punctuated by a memorable altercation. Enjoy humorous anecdotes about quirky marketing tactics in Brazil and the emotional toll of filmmaking. The discussion unveils the complicated power dynamics in Tinseltown, questioning the fine line between creativity and confrontation. It's a wild ride through the absurdities and harsh realities of the industry!

Apr 24, 2025 • 55min
Queen of the St. Petersburg Crime Scene: Sonia Golden Hand
A gorgeous thief who was perhaps too talented for her own criming good, Sonia Golden Hand stole hearts and goods all over Europe. She ran cons and palmed gems like no other, which gained her fame. Pro tip: fame and recognition aren't particularly helpful for those looking to fly under the radar. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.