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Best Scamfluencers Episodes

ByWondery
74 episodes

You never really know someone…especially online. In today’s world, the power of influence can be the quickest path to money and fame, and it often ends in ruin. These are the stories of the world’s most insidious Scamfluencers. And we are their prey. On Wondery’s new weekly series, join co-hosts Scaachi Koul and Sarah Hagi as they unpack epic stories of deception from the worlds of social media, fashion, finance, health, and wellness. These influencers claim to be everything from charismatic healers to trusted financial insiders to experts in dating. They cast spells over millions. Why do we believe them, and how does our culture allow them to thrive? From Black Swan Murder to a fake social media influencer to an audacious Hollywood Ponzi schemer, each season will take the listener along the twists and turns, the impact on victims, and what’s left when the facade falls away.Need more Scamfluencers? With Wondery+, enjoy exclusive episodes, early access to new ones, and they’re always ad-free. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/scamfluencers/ now.

#1

Paul and Patricia Bragg: The Mother of All Wellness Scams | 158

This episode dives into the world of wellness and exposes the lies behind a popular health empire. With outrageous claims and a legacy of deception, Paul and Patricia Bragg's story is both captivating and cautionary, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of health and fraud.

2025-05-12•1h 0m
#2

Michael Milken: When Junk Was King | 157

Explore the rise of Michael Milken, a controversial figure who transformed Wall Street with his junk bond empire. This episode reveals the high-stakes world of finance and the scandals that surrounded it, making it a thrilling listen for anyone interested in business and ethics.

2025-05-05•1h 11m
#3

Lee Israel: Scammer She Wrote | 153

Follow the intriguing story of Lee Israel, a biographer who turned to crime to survive. This episode showcases her cunning schemes and the lengths she went to in order to sell fake celebrity letters, providing a fascinating look at desperation and creativity.

2025-04-07•54m

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#4

Giancarlo Parretti: The Italian Job | 152

Delve into the world of Hollywood finance with Giancarlo Parretti, an Italian businessman who pulled off a massive scam in the film industry. This episode offers a thrilling narrative filled with deception and high-stakes drama, perfect for those who love a good heist story.

2025-03-31•1h 2m
#5

Francois-Marie Banier: The French Connection Part 2 | 156

This episode continues the tale of Francois-Marie Banier, a notorious figure in the Parisian art scene entangled in a scandalous lawsuit. With themes of wealth, manipulation, and social climbing, it's an engaging listen that captivates from start to finish.

2025-04-28•58m
#6

Billy Mitchell: Truth or Kong-sequences | 151

Discover the story of Billy Mitchell, an arcade game champion embroiled in controversy over his high scores. This episode blends nostalgia with intrigue, making it a perfect pick for gamers and fans of competitive sports alike.

2025-03-24•54m
#7

Conrad Black: The Fleet Street Fleece | 154

Uncover the rise and fall of media mogul Conrad Black, who misused his power and influence for personal gain. This episode is a gripping exploration of ambition and downfall, appealing to anyone interested in media and ethics.

2025-04-14•1h 2m
#8

Francois-Marie Banier: The French Connection Part 1 | 155

In this first part, follow the journey of Francois-Marie Banier, a man who climbed the social ladder through charm and manipulation. The episode's exploration of fame and fortune sets the stage for a riveting tale of deception.

2025-04-21•58m
#9

ENCORE: Do You Even Grift, Bro? | 161

Revisit the story of Brian Johnson, aka The Liver King, whose extreme lifestyle and claims captivated audiences. This episode's mix of humor and shocking revelations makes it a standout for both new listeners and fans of the series.

2025-06-02•50m
#10

ENCORE: The Memory Maker Part 1 | 159

Explore the rise of Teal Swan, a controversial self-help guru, in this compelling episode that combines personal narrative with broader societal themes. It's a fascinating deep dive into the world of self-help and its pitfalls, perfect for new listeners.

2025-05-19•49m