Smoke Screen: Fake Priest

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For 30 years, a man claimed to be a priest. He performed baptisms and took confession. Every time he ran into trouble, Father Ryan would move on to another small Midwestern town and start his scheme all over again. Followers who once worshiped him, now accuse him of exploitation, fraud and abuse. Multiple prosecutors have charged him, but he’s never been imprisoned for his crimes. Investigative reporter Alex Schuman, who hails from a small Iowa town himself, set out to find out how Father Ryan got away with it for so long and why on earth he did it. Along the way, he discovers Father Ryan has connections to a murdered priest, a false prophet, and an entire subculture where he and other frauds can thrive. In season one of Smoke Screen, join Alex Schuman as he unravels this con and gets answers from this white-collar criminal himself. Listen to Smoke Screen: Season 1 Fake Priest, an all-new podcast from Neon Hum Media.

Neon Hum Media


    • Jun 2, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 31m AVG DURATION
    • 141 EPISODES
    • 12 SEASONS

    4 from 2,049 ratings Listeners of Smoke Screen: Fake Priest that love the show mention: father ryan, seems interesting, neon, fascinating story, white privilege, priest, compelling story, iowa, alex, bizarre, investigation, investigative, catholic, religious, wait for the next episode, well told, fake, reporting, intriguing, m hooked.


    Ivy Insights

    The Smoke Screen: Fake Priest podcast is a captivating and well-produced investigative podcast that sheds light on the world of confidence men and their deceptive tactics. If you are from Iowa or Western Illinois, or even if you're not, this podcast is a must-listen.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the way it tells a specific story but also serves to sharpen our collective awareness of confidence men in general. The host, Alex, does a great job of presenting a compelling narrative with engaging characters. The interviews included in the podcast add depth and authenticity to the story, allowing listeners to hear firsthand accounts from those involved. The research and reporting are top-notch, making for an informative and thought-provoking listening experience.

    While some reviews criticize the interviews for containing foul language, I believe that this raw data adds to the authenticity and credibility of the interviewees' opinions. It is evidence of their perspective, whether we agree with them or not. The production could have paraphrased or censored these moments, but it wouldn't have had the same impact. Additionally, while some may find the ending of the podcast less exciting than expected, it accurately reflects real life and doesn't fault the production itself.

    In conclusion, The Smoke Screen: Fake Priest podcast is a standout investigation story that keeps listeners hooked from start to finish. With its well-written narrative, great characters, thorough research and reporting, and excellent production quality, it is definitely worth your time. I highly recommend giving it a listen!



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    Latest episodes from Smoke Screen: Fake Priest

    Catch Me If You Ken I 1. Boyfriend in the Garage

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 33:23


    At a cozy Christmas dinner in Ohio, Becca introduces her mysterious, rich boyfriend Ken to the family. But when her uncle, a seasoned cop, senses something's off, holiday cheer turns into suspicion. Binge all episodes of Catch Me If You Ken, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing…. Catch Me If You Ken

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 1:30


    Catch Me If You Ken investigates the never-before-told story of a man who told people he was a billionaire's son, allegedly lured in victims by promising to make them rich, but really left a trail of beautiful women and broken promises in his wake. Eventually, his victims caught on and fought back. In this series, host Natalie Robehmed exposes him, despite his digital vanishing acts and multiple aliases, and hunts down the man who victims say stole from them – to find out: Who is the real Ken? Subscribe to The Binge to get all episodes, all at once, all ad-free as soon as they drop on June 1st. Visit The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fatal Beauty | 6. Hard to Get

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 46:41


    Investigators finally have Sandra exactly where they want her and look again at Alan's murder. Could she have had an accomplice? Binge all episodes of Fatal Beauty, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.     The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Fatal Beauty is A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fatal Beauty | 5. Luck Runs Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 43:27


    Sandra meets a man who can see right through her. And she's forced to face the music, after she messes with the wrong family. Binge all episodes of Fatal Beauty, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Fatal Bauty is a Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fatal Beauty | 4. There's Something About Camille

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 43:35


    A Christian wife hires a private investigator after her husband takes up with a mysterious brunette. Binge all episodes of Fatal Beauty, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Fatal Beauty is A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fatal Beauty | 3. Dead End

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 44:10


    Alan's mother and his widow Sandra face off in a legal battle.   Sandra heads West as an indictment looms. Binge all episodes of Fatal Beauty, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Fatal Beauty is A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fatal Beauty | 1. Body in the Bronco

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 37:32


    A   suspicious death in Oklahoma City has investigators asking themselves, who   would have wanted this young man dead?   Binge all episodes of Fatal Beauty, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge.  Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fatal Beauty | 2. An Open Secret

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 46:06


    In Dallas, Sandra Bridewell's disturbing past is revealed and   an eerie pattern begins to take shape.   Binge all episodes of Fatal Beauty, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Fatal Beauty is A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing… Fatal Beauty

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025 1:12


    This is the story of a femme fatale named Sandra Bridewell who wielded her Southern charm like a weapon. After people close to her died, one after the other, Sandra became known as the Black Widow. Soon, she was on the run, trading aliases, getting new men to fall for her and bankroll her extravagant life. Reporter Cooper Moll investigates her secretive life and why she managed to avoid murder charges for so long. Subscribe to The Binge to get all episodes, all at once, all ad-free as soon as they drop on April 1st. Visit The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Baby Broker | 7. Gotcha Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2025 35:29


    Tara Lee has her day in court, and her victims show up to face her. But it's not over. An unforeseen consequence of Tara Lee's fraud threatens to upend the lives of more than a dozen families.  Binge all episodes of Baby Broker, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. A Sony Music Entertainment & Perfect Cadence production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Baby Broker | 6. Don't F**k With Parents

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 41:56


    Parents sick and tired of Tara Lee's lies join a Facebook group to share evidence and bring her down. One family stands by her, even after the Feds raid Tara's home and more secrets come to light.  Binge all episodes of Baby Broker, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. A Sony Music Entertainment & Perfect Cadence production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Baby Broker | 5. The Last Adoption

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2025 31:14


    Tara Lee pressures a couple to hand over her final payment, moments after their son is born. They stall. They hide. And for a good reason. The FBI is hot on Tara's tail and she has no clue.  Binge all episodes of Baby Broker, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. A Sony Music Entertainment & Perfect Cadence production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Baby Broker | 4. We All Became Investigators

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2025 36:58


    The Mathenys arrive in Detroit praying their adoption is on—when two women contact them with grave concerns about Tara Lee. The scope of her crimes is only beginning to come to light.  Binge all episodes of Baby Broker, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. A Sony Music Entertainment & Perfect Cadence production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Baby Broker | 3. The Birth Mothers

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2025 33:02


    When the family from Chicago meets their daughter's birth mom, Sarah, they discover she's living in horrifying conditions. Why haven't the thousands they've paid Tara Lee for Sarah's expenses trickled down to her? Binge all episodes of Baby Broker, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. A Sony Music Entertainment & Perfect Cadence production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Baby Broker | 2. Three Babies

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2025 37:51


    A family from Chicago working with Tara Lee has agreed to adopt two babies when Tara Lee tries to rope them into adopting a third. They're cornered, and they don't feel like they have a choice.  Binge all episodes of Baby Broker, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. A Sony Music Entertainment & Perfect Cadence production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Baby Broker | 1. You Cannot Tell Anyone

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 36:53


    In 2018, Tara Lee matches Teresa and Mike Matheny of Atlanta with a pregnant woman in Detroit who is due in just two weeks. But hours before the couple drives to Detroit to adopt their son, they make a horrifying discovery.  Binge all episodes of Baby Broker, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Crimes on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. A Sony Music Entertainment & Perfect Cadence production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing… Baby Broker

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2025 1:13


    Imagine if you were about to become a parent and someone ripped away your dream. Tara Lee ran an adoption company called Always Hope and matched families with babies in record time. But what these adoptive parents didn't know was how she was manipulating their lives for her gain. This is a shocking tale about a criminal with a cold heart who pulled off an unimaginable scheme, and the parents who banded together to take her down. Subscribe to The Binge to get all episodes, all at once, all ad-free as soon as they drop on February 1st.  Visit The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Scary Terri | 6. “I need some money, honey.”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2025 49:32


    Facing pressure from wrongful death suits, Terri filed for bankruptcy, claiming she had no money. But, what if Terri pulled a fast one on the Feds? Binge all episodes of Scary Terri, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession.  Unwrap a huge holiday discount on NordVPN by heading to https://nordvpn.com/thebinge. Plus, with our link, you'll get an extra 4 months free on the 2-year plan, and it's risk-free with Nord's 30-day money-back guarantee. Check the link in the description!   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Scary Terri | 5. The White Pill

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2024 37:29


    Terri's manipulation is evolving with horrible consequences. She's now telling her followers that death isn't final and that another chapter awaits. Binge all episodes of Scary Terri, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession.  Unwrap a huge holiday discount on NordVPN by heading to https://nordvpn.com/thebinge. Plus, with our link, you'll get an extra 4 months free on the 2-year plan, and it's risk-free with Nord's 30-day money-back guarantee. Check the link in the description! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Scary Terri | 4. Becoming Mrs. Hoffman

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2024 41:03


    Terri didn't just convince people to take their own lives. She was a cancer on whole families. The Hoffmans filed a wrongful death suit trying to hold her accountable. Binge all episodes of Scary Terri, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession.  Unwrap a huge holiday discount on NordVPN by heading to https://nordvpn.com/thebinge. Plus, with our link, you'll get an extra 4 months free on the 2-year plan, and it's risk-free with Nord's 30-day money-back guarantee. Check the link in the description! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Scary Terri | 3. Marital Issues

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2024 34:53


    In the early days of Conscious Development of Body, Mind and Soul, if you dared to question Terri, she'd target you without implicating herself. So when Terri's own husband Glenn becomes skeptical of her teachings, his days are numbered. Binge all episodes of Scary Terri, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession.  Unwrap a huge holiday discount on NordVPN by heading to https://nordvpn.com/thebinge. Plus, with our link, you'll get an extra 4 months free on the 2-year plan, and it's risk-free with Nord's 30-day money-back guarantee. Check the link in the description! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Scary Terri | 2. The Last Will

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2024 42:53


    Two more women, under Terri's influence, die. But, how can you hold her accountable, if they die by suicide, not homicide? Binge all episodes of Scary Terri, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Mysterious Death of Devereaux Cleaver

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2024 38:03


    In 1979, 14-year-old Devereaux Cleaver vanished at sea. Was it an accident? Or part of a sick and deadly conspiracy? After her death, something suspicious happens that points the finger at Terri Hoffman. Binge all episodes of Scary Terri, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing: Scary Terri

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2024 2:12


    Coming soon to The Binge,  it's Scary Terri. A tragic double suicide. A teenager suspiciously drowned. A mother and her childhood nanny drove off a cliff. Between 1979 and 1989, a dozen people died under mysterious circumstances, with one thing in common: a connection to a spiritual leader in Dallas, Texas named Terri Hoffman. In Scary Terri, investigative reporter Jonathan Hirsch unravels the web of lies, manipulation, and dubious deeds that surround Hoffman. A dark Texas Gothic about the Charlie Manson you've never heard of. Subscribe to The Binge to get all episodes, all at once, all ad-free as soon as they drop on December 1st.  Visit The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Denise Didn't Come Home | 8. The Truth Is Good

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 35:38


    Host Anthony Scalia finally gets his hands on Denise's case file, and starts to question the person he trusted most…Karen.  Binge all episodes of Denise Didn't Come Home, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Denise Didn't Come Home | 7. Evil Nice Guy

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 35:23


    Host Anthony Scalia builds a relationship with a notorious serial killer and finally hears the full story about what happened to Denise Falasca the night she died. Binge all episodes of Denise Didn't Come Home, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    6. A Word That Starts With C

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 38:09


    Karen writes to a notorious serial killer in prison, hoping to finally come to terms with what happened to her sister.  Binge all episodes of Denise Didn't Come Home, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    5. The Broken Road

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 32:16


    A serial killer's confession leaves Karen with more questions than answers. Binge all episodes of Denise Didn't Come Home, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    4. The Girl On Old Hook Road

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 40:16


    Karen pressures Bergen County detectives to look into who she believes murdered her sister.  But they have their own suspect - a notorious serial killer. Binge all episodes of Denise Didn't Come Home, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    3. The Torso Killer

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 38:36


    Host Anthony Scalia looks into the unsolved murders of young women in Bergen County. Could their deaths be the work of a gruesome serial killer? Binge all episodes of Denise Didn't Come Home, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Memory Palace

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 36:42


    Karen remembers the bizarre events leading up to her sister's murder, and all the people she never suspected, until she took a second look.  Binge all episodes of Denise Didn't Come Home, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Denise Didn't Come Home | 1. Stay With Me

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 32:37


    For almost 50 years, Karen Falasca searched for the man who killed her sister, Denise. Host Anthony Scalia joins Karen in her search for the truth.  Binge all episodes of Denise Didn't Come Home, ad-free today by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge Cases show page on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access.  The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing: Denise Didn't Come Home

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2024 3:10


    Smoke Screen is now The Binge Cases - new name, same home for thrilling true crime stories. Catch the new season, Denise Didn't Come Home, on October 1st. Karen Falasca last saw her 15 year old sister Denise on July 14, 1969, when they parted ways not far from their Bergen County home.  The next day, Denise's body was found strangled next to a cemetery.  For almost 50 years, Karen searched for her sister's killer. In Denise Didn't Come Home, host Anthony Scalia gets pulled into the search and discovers a shocking and unexpected truth. Subscribe to The Binge to get all episodes, all at once, all ad-free as soon as they drop. Visit The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts and hit ‘subscribe' or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. The Binge – feed your true crime obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Greatest Scam Ever Written | 8. The Last Letter

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2024 43:12


    The defense attorneys for the man behind the scam argue the Duval scheme is no more deceptive than a magic show. But prosecutors make a strong case for fraud. In a last ditch effort to save himself, the mastermind submits a 17 page letter to the judge trying to explain what happened. But will his letter convince her? Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Greatest Scam Ever Written | 7. Call Me Blade

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 42:06


    Our host writes a handwritten letter to the mastermind behind the Duval letters in 2023. He's impressed and reaches out. He's never spoken to a journalist before. They start exchanging emails and calls. Eventually she visits him behind bars. Soon, a jury will decide his fate. What will he reveal to her? And how can Rachel be sure it's the truth?  Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Greatest Scam Ever Written | 6. DNA of a Scammer

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2024 29:57


    The mastermind behind the Maria Duval scam is revealed. Who is he and how did he operate one of the biggest scams in U.S. history? Investigative reporter Rachel Browne discovers this wasn't his first mail-order operation and that Terry Polevoy, an amateur scam-buster, had helped expose that scheme. Rachel discovers the mastermind's M.O.   Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Greatest Scam Ever Written | 5. The Runner

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2024 39:45


    U.S. Postal Inspector Clayton Gerber discovers that the letters are entering the country via Albany, NY, and that they're originating from a company in Montreal. Locating criminals across the border for extradition is no simple task, but eventually Clayton finds two of the scam's top lieutenants. Can he get them to give up the name of their boss, the true mastermind of the scheme?   Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Greatest Scam Ever Written | 4. The Swiss Swindlers

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2024 40:17


    To find out how the scheme is operating in the present, we go back to how it all started. We know that two Swiss businessmen had bought Maria's name and image to add legitimacy to their mailing scheme and launch letters across Europe. But who were these men? What motivated them to cheat hundreds of thousands of people out of their life savings? And where are they today? Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Greatest Scam Ever Written | 3. One Man's Trash

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2024 42:03


    The Maria Duval letter scam began in Europe—so how did it make its way to America? U.S. Postal Inspector Clayton Gerber begins to unravel the threads of the scam when he discovers an address on Long Island, where victims are sending their replies to Duval. They also send intimate items like locks of their hair, hoping for the psychic's help. Clayton's team goes dumpster diving on Long Island and finds bags of return letters – proof Duval herself wasn't getting the replies. Why were their replies ending up here, of all places? And who's responsible?    Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Greatest Scam Ever Written | 2. Psychic to the Stars

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2024 40:33


    Who was Maria Duval? Her son says she had a gift, an ability to see people's futures. She helped locate missing people and worked with the French elite, befriending Jacques Chirac and Brigitte Bardot. In the late 80s, when two businessmen approached Maria Duval with a life-changing deal, her name becomes synonymous with one of the greatest scams ever written.  Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Greatest Scam Ever Written | 1. Your Devoted Friend

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2024 40:25


    What would you do if you got a mysterious letter promising to restore your health and vitality? Doreen Robinson wrote back and sent money to the French psychic named Maria Duval who'd written to her. As their relationship deepened, Doreen had no idea that she wasn't the only one. In fact, hundreds of thousands of people had gotten a Duval letter, and gave an estimated $175m. How was this possible?  Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing: The Greatest Scam Ever Written

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2024 3:34


    What would you do if one handwritten letter promised to change your life forever? All of us want magic, to feel like there is some sort of exterior force guiding our next steps, to believe our fate is written in the stars. This is the story of 1 million hopeful Americans, the global scam that took $200m from them, and the mastermind who managed it all by sending out thousands of letters a week. Investigative journalist Rachel Browne takes us through the facts of the fraud, from its brilliantly simple conception to the revelation and imprisonment of the fraudster themselves. Speaking through letters from behind bars, the con artist maintains their innocence, saying:  ‘Maybe it's not moral, maybe it's bullshit, but it doesn't mean it's fraud.' And that is the question at the heart of The Greatest Scam Ever Written: What happens if you want to believe that sending $50 to a psychic will change the course of your destiny? Are you a victim, or a willing participant? Unlock all episodes of The Greatest Scam Ever Written, ad-free as soon as they drop on August 1st by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, you'll get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month, every month -  thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access. An ITN Productions & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    My Friend, the Serial Killer | 6. Unfinished Business

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2024 36:58


    Despite promises made by the police, the killer faces the death penalty for his crimes. Donna confesses that she is terrified her father will find a way to avoid the death penalty, get out of prison, and come after her. As time goes on, Donna and Steve reckon with the aftershocks of her father's crimes, the mistakes Steve made as a young journalist, and the damage the killer inflicted on his victims… both living and dead.   This episode will be released for free on July 8th.   Unlock all episodes of Smoke Screen: My Friend, the Serial Killer, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month  thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free.  Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts.   An Orbit Media & Sony Music Entertainment production in association with Rhyme Media.   Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    My Friend, the Serial Killer | 5. Donna

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2024 45:25


    In the present day, Steve tracks down Donna, the killer's daughter, who he first met when she was 12. Nearly fifty years later, Donna describes the harsh reality of growing up the daughter of a serial killer who she loved.   This episode will be released for free on July 1st.   Unlock all episodes of Smoke Screen: My Friend, the Serial Killer, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month  thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free.   Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts.   An Orbit Media & Sony Music Entertainment production in association with Rhyme Media.   Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    My Friend, the Serial Killer | 4. The Exclusive

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2024 40:10


    Steve secures his exclusive interview with the killer, who reveals what he considers the “real reasons” his victims died. While digging into this investigative lead, Steve tracks down a former social worker, who has a stunning revelation for Steve that will completely change his understanding of the case.   This episode will be released for free on June 24th.   Unlock all episodes of Smoke Screen: My Friend, the Serial Killer, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month  thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free.   Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts.   An Orbit Media & Sony Music Entertainment production in association with Rhyme Media.  Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    My Friend, the Serial Killer | 3. Take Us To The Bodies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2024 32:14


    On the strangest road trip ever, the confessed killer leads detectives, a prosecutor, and a medical examiner on a grim quest to unearth the bodies he claims to have buried in remote parts Louisiana and Mississippi.   This episode will be released for free on June 17th.   Unlock all episodes of Smoke Screen: My Friend, the Serial Killer, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month  thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free.   Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts.   An Orbit Media & Sony Music Entertainment production in association with Rhyme Media.  F ind out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    My Friend, the Serial Killer | 2. Confessions

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2024 32:14


    Steve dives deeper into the details of the killer's life, reaching out to his wife and daughter in an attempt to secure an exclusive interview with the killer in prison. Meanwhile, the Florida police dig into the grisly details of the killer's crimes… but if they want to hold the killer accountable, they are going to need evidence.   This episode will be released for free on June 10th.    Unlock all episodes of Smoke Screen: My Friend, the Serial Killer, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month  thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free.   Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts.   An Orbit Media & Sony Music Entertainment production in association with Rhyme Media.   Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    My Friend, the Serial Killer | 1. Local Man

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2024 35:00


    Steve Fishman is an intern at his local Connecticut newspaper and a regular hitchhiker. When one of his hitched rides comes to an unnerving conclusion, Steve shrugs it off—until weeks later, when the news breaks that the driver he rode with has confessed to being a serial killer who preys on hitchhikers. Steve sees the chance to get the scoop of a lifetime: a killer's story, Who better to tell it than someone who almost became one of his victims? Unlock all episodes of Smoke Screen: My Friend, the Serial Killer, ad-free, right now by subscribing to The Binge. Plus, get binge access to brand new stories dropping on the first of every month  thats all episodes, all at once, all ad-free. Just click Subscribe on the top of the Smoke Screen show page on Apple Podcasts or visit GetTheBinge.com to get access wherever you get your podcasts. An Orbit Media & Sony Music Entertainment production in association with Rhyme Media. Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing: My Friend, the Serial Killer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2024 2:55


    What would you do if someone you knew turned out to be a serial killer?   In the 1970s, Steve Fishman was an intern at his local newspaper, when one day he hitched a ride back from Boston with Robert Carr III, better known as “Red.” Red seemed trustworthy enough, but he was hiding a secret: by the time he had picked up Steve, he had already killed three people—and all of his prior victims were hitchhikers themselves.   This narrow brush with death is only the beginning of Steve's relationship with Red. When Red is eventually arrested by the police and confesses to a slew of gruesome murders, Steve sees the journalistic opportunity of a lifetime. It's exactly the career break that Steve has been looking for—but is it too good to be true?   Featuring exclusive interviews and never-before-heard tape, Steve goes inside a serial killer's mind. He examines not only the details of Red's crimes, but turns the scrutiny on his own coverage to ask: did he get the story right? And if not, what can he do now to set the record straight?   Subscribe now to unlock all shows on The Binge and you'll be the first to access Smoke Screen: My Friend, the Serial Killer as soon as it drops on June 1st.   An Orbit Media & Sony Music Entertainment production in association with Rhyme Media.   Find out more about The Binge and other podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Most Dangerous Man You've Never Heard Of - Who is John Todd?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2024 3:54


    In the 1970s, John Todd exploded onto the evangelical scene with a shocking claim: a secret group of devil-worshiping elites called the Illuminati were planning a violent world takeover, and Christians needed to arm themselves against them to protect their families and way of life. But none of it was true—so why did the idea spread so quickly? Dive into John Todd's dark and distorted world with journalist Paul Murphy on Cover Up: The Conspiracy Tapes. Featuring sensational tales of witchcraft and human sacrifice from recorded tape of John Todd's original testimony, this story unravels the threads of Todd's deceptions, and traces his legacy as an originator of modern day conspiracy theories. Available now wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribers to The Binge can listen to all episodes of Cover Up: The Conspiracy Tapes right now, completely ad-free. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Behind Poisoned Letters - The Untold Story of the Anthrax Attacks

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2024 2:43


    In 2001, a series of letters laced with a deadly powder called anthrax appeared on the desks of prominent journalists and politicians in New York City and Washington D.C causing a national panic. But what started as an unprecedented case soon turned into an unsettling mystery. Who had sent these letters? And why? Join us as we trace the FBI's costly investigation into the attacks, all with an eye toward the question that remains today: Did the FBI identify the true killer, or is this case still unresolved? Unravel the story the played out behind closed doors on Cover Up: The Anthrax Threat, listen now wherever you get your podcasts Subscribers to The Binge can listen to all episodes of Cover Up: The Anthrax Threat right now, completely ad-free. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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