PRETEND+

•

Κανάλι • 5 εκπομπές

Αληθινά εγκλήματα

Αληθινά εγκλήματα

Κάθε 2 εβδομάδες
Εργασία

Εργασία

Κάθε 2 εβδομάδες
Αληθινά εγκλήματα

Αληθινά εγκλήματα

Σειρά - Κάθε 2 εβδομάδες
Αληθινά εγκλήματα

Αληθινά εγκλήματα

Σειρά
Αληθινά εγκλήματα

Αληθινά εγκλήματα

23/06/2025

5 ΗΜ. ΠΡΙΝ · ΕΠΙΠΡΌΣΘΕΤΟ ΠΕΡΙΕΧΌΜΕΝΟ

Listener Reaction: Didn't See It Coming Part 3

Patreon supporter Kenito Wills joins Javier to break down the finale of the "Didn't See It Coming" series. They talk through Susanne Wilson calling off the reading at the last minute. Did she know it was a sting? Did she just have a bad feeling? Javier shares a detail that got cut from the episode: Suzanne actually arranged for the fake family to get a reading with another medium in Europe, which suggests she wasn't 100% sure it was a setup. Plus: Kenito and Javier swap palm reading stories from college. Kenito was told he'd have five kids (he didn't). Javier was told he'd meet the love of his life right after a bad breakup (he did). The takeaway isn't that psychics aren't real or that you can't grieve however you want. It's that if someone mentions Reynolds Wrap and your maiden name is Reynolds, maybe ask some questions. Susan Gerbic's YouTube channel "Psychics Explained" has dozens of videos documenting Operation Banana Cream Pie and other investigations. Link in the show notes. Watch the full videos of Operation Banana Cream Pie on Susan Gerbic's YouTube page: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcSfdioxwHQGkyFZ68maphdIJuYcb8xln Want to see more psychic stings? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 ημ. πριν · Επιπρόσθετο περιεχόμενο

•

17 λεπτά
27 ΙΑΝ

Didn't See It Coming (Part 3)

The sting is set. The bait is in place. Six skeptics are logged into a Zoom call, pretending to be grieving siblings. They've paid $1,400 for a private reading with a medium Susan Gerbic believes is a hot reader. Months of planning have led to this moment. And then... the medium does something no one expected. In the finale of this three-part series, we find out what happened to Operation Banana Cream Pie. Then, Susan shares recordings from other readings she's analyzed, walking us through what she believes is evidence of hot reading in action. We break down the techniques, examine the receipts, and let you decide what it all means. Watch the full videos of Operation Banana Cream Pie on Susan Gerbic's YouTube page: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcSfdioxwHQGkyFZ68maphdIJuYcb8xln Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

27 Ιαν

•

43 λεπτά
20 ΙΑΝ

Didn't See It Coming (Part 2)

In Part 1, we watched skeptic Susan Gerbic dissect a celebrity psychic's cold reading techniques. But cold reading is the little leagues of the psychic industry. In Part 2, Susan sets her sights on something harder to catch... a hot reader. Hot reading is when a psychic does their homework, researching their clients before the reading even starts. So Susan devises an elaborate sting: fake Facebook accounts, fake obituaries, fake family members, and $1,400 worth of bait designed to catch a medium in the act. Six skeptics go undercover as grieving siblings. They don't know each other. They don't know the backstory. And they have no idea what's about to happen. This episode takes you inside "Operation Banana Cream Pie." Let's just say, the moment the medium logs onto the Zoom call, no one saw it coming. ABOUT SUSAN GERBIC: Susan Gerbic is a Fellow of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry and founder of Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia, a group that has written over 2,000 Wikipedia articles on science and pseudoscience — viewed more than 200 million times. Her most famous investigation, "Operation Pizza Roll," was featured in The New York Times Magazine and exposed medium Thomas John's hot reading techniques. Susan runs the nonprofit About Time, which funds her ongoing psychic investigations. Want more? Susan Gerbic documented the entire Operation Banana Cream Pie sting on her YouTube channel "Psychics Explained"—20+ videos of behind-the-scenes footage. Link in the show notes. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcSfdioxwHQGkyFZ68maphdIJuYcb8xln LINKS & RESOURCES: Susan Gerbic's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PsychicsExplained About Time Project: https://www.abouttimeproject.org/ NYT Magazine feature on Operation Pizza Roll: https://archive.ph/20190226135004/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/26/magazine/psychics-skeptics-facebook.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

20 Ιαν

•

33 λεπτά
24 ΙΑΝ · ΕΠΙΠΡΌΣΘΕΤΟ ΠΕΡΙΕΧΌΜΕΝΟ

Listener Reaction: Didn't See It Coming part 2

Patreon supporter Christine Harnos (not the Star Trek actress, the other one) joins Javier to break down Part 2 of the "Didn't See It Coming" series before listening to the finale. They get into the weeds on Susan Gerbic's sting setup: the Facebook accounts she's been maintaining for years, the fake obituary, the hog farm detail. If a psychic mentions pigs, you know something's up. They also discuss the difference between hot reading and cold reading, why "scientifically tested" doesn't mean what mediums want you to think it means, and the troubling relationship between psychic mediums and grief support organizations like Helping Parents Heal. Christine also shares a strange, unexplainable moment from her own life involving her daughter and a daycare power outage. Want more? Susan Gerbic documented the entire Operation Banana Cream Pie sting on her YouTube channel "Psychics Explained"—20+ videos of behind-the-scenes footage. Link in the show notes. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcSfdioxwHQGkyFZ68maphdIJuYcb8xln Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

24 Ιαν · Επιπρόσθετο περιεχόμενο

•

25 λεπτά
13 ΙΑΝ

Didn't See It Coming (Part 1)

Skeptic Susan Gerbic invited PRETEND inside one of her psychic sting operations. In Part 1 of this three-part series, we go inside "Operation Gobble Gotcha," a Thanksgiving sting targeting celebrity psychic Matt Fraser. Susan and her team of volunteers infiltrate one of Matt's online group readings to observe his techniques in real time. What they witness isn't a connection to the other side. It's a technique called cold reading. And once you see it, you can't unsee it. BINGE ALL THREE EPISODES: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/didnt-see-it-2-147839354?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link PRETEND+ on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/pretend/id6443456985 ABOUT SUSAN GERBIC: Susan Gerbic is a Fellow of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry and founder of Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia, a group that has written over 2,000 Wikipedia articles on science and pseudoscience — viewed more than 200 million times. Her most famous investigation, "Operation Pizza Roll," was featured in The New York Times Magazine and exposed medium Thomas John's hot reading techniques. Susan runs the nonprofit About Time, which funds her ongoing psychic investigations. LINKS & RESOURCES: Susan Gerbic's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PsychicsExplained About Time Project: https://www.abouttimeproject.org/ NYT Magazine feature on Operation Pizza Roll: https://archive.ph/20190226135004/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/26/magazine/psychics-skeptics-facebook.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

13 Ιαν

•

39 λεπτά
17 ΙΑΝ · ΕΠΙΠΡΌΣΘΕΤΟ ΠΕΡΙΕΧΌΜΕΝΟ

Listener Reaction: Didn't See That Coming Part 1

Longtime Patreon supporter Rebecca Catalfu joins Javier to unpack her firsthand experience going undercover at Matt Fraser's psychic readings. Rebecca went into this investigation as a believer and came out the other side with a very different perspective. In this conversation, she and Javier break down the patterns they observed across multiple readings: the decision tree (grandparent, parent, or mystery), the "who is that to you?" fishing technique, the stop statements psychics use when they're not getting hits, and the emotional bell curve that takes grievers to rock bottom before lifting them back up with platitudes. Rebecca also shares what it was like to make it into the virtual "panelist waiting room," the inconsistencies she noticed while analyzing readings for Susan's YouTube channel, and why she's most concerned about the predatory potential these readings pose to vulnerable people. Plus: Javier attempts his own cold reading. It does not go well. LINKS: Susan Gerbic's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PsychicsExplained Matt Fraser Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcSfdioxwHQGkyFZ68maphdIJuYcb8xln Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

17 Ιαν · Επιπρόσθετο περιεχόμενο

•

27 λεπτά
18/11/2025

The Cancer Sympathy Machine part 1

Some people fake cancer for sympathy. Others do it for money. But the truth is darker than most of us want to believe. In this episode, we break down the tactics, behaviors, and mindsets of some of the most convincing cancer fakers out there. From Madison Russo’s botched medical props to Elizabeth Teckenbrock’s alleged search history...“Is it illegal to fake cancer?” Um, yeah. Bill Petrich, a real cancer survivor who now investigates fake cases, helps us understand the psychology behind the deception. We also take a look at the biggest cancer cons in recent history: Scamanda, Belle Gibson, Jennifer Flynn Cataldo and how these scams went from emotional manipulation to full-on fraud. To learn more about Bill Petrich’s work documenting these cases, check out his TikTok: @faking.cancer.expert: https://www.tiktok.com/@faking.cancer.expert Listen to eLIESabeth podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2nlxXhewsTRAyJhvyvaQbb?si=5de4d34489f549e9 Protect your business before hackers even make a move. NordStellar centralizes breach, dark web, and attack surface intelligence into one powerful threat-intelligence platform—helping you spot risks early and take action fast. Get 20% off all NordStellar plans with the Black Friday code: BLACKFRIDAY20 (valid until December 10, 2025). Use the link ⁠nordstellar.com/pretend Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

18/11/2025

•

38 λεπτά
02/07/2024

Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 5

True Crime Author LaDonna Humphrey Targets Ex-Boyfriend in Melissa Witt Killing, According to Recordings LaDonna Humphrey is accused of relentlessly pursuing Daniel Watson as a suspect in the unsolved murder of Melissa Witt. Watson, who has consistently maintained his innocence, claims he is being unfairly targeted by Humphrey, who is alleged to be driven by personal and financial motives. Later in the episode, Julie Murray, whose sister Maura Murray disappeared in 2004, also had a contentious experience with Humphrey. Despite initial cooperation, Murray's family became wary of Humphrey's motives, leading to accusations of fabricated evidence and misrepresentation. Follow Us: Twitter: @pretendpod Instagram: @pretendpodcast Facebook: Pretend Podcast For more information and updates on Maura Murray's case, visit mauramurraymissing.org. Today's episode was written and produced by Javier Leiva. Producer: Alison Byrne Editor: Puneeth Shenoy with the Podcast Pundits https://podcastpundits.com/ Theme Music: The Chicken https://www.thechicken.net/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

02/07/2024

•

44 λεπτά
17/11/2025 · ΕΠΙΠΡΌΣΘΕΤΟ ΠΕΡΙΕΧΌΜΕΝΟ

Dakota Spotlight: Meanwhile in Mankato

On PRETEND, we tell stories about people who build false identities and hide the truth in plain sight. This week, we are featuring a case that fits right into that world. It is the newest season of Dakota Spotlight, titled “Meanwhile in Mankato.” In 1965, an 18-year-old gas station attendant named Ray Dahm was murdered during an overnight shift at a rural Minnesota truck stop. The person who killed him was a clean-cut 17-year-old who looked harmless, the kind of kid no one would ever suspect. On the surface, it seemed simple. A robbery. A terrible act of violence. Case closed. But that was only the beginning. Reporter James Wolner later uncovered that the killer did not stay locked away for long. Within a few years, he was quietly back in the community, working around teenage girls who had no idea they were interacting with a convicted murderer. His past had been buried, ignored, or conveniently forgotten. “Meanwhile in Mankato” is a story about manipulation, vanished accountability, and the people who were left to carry the fallout of one man’s lies. It is exactly the kind of story we look at on PRETEND, because it shows how someone can reinvent themselves while everyone else looks the other way. If you follow PRETEND, you will want to hear this one. It is sharp reporting, unsettling truth, and a reminder that the most dangerous story is often the one no one bothered to check. Subscribe to Dakota Spotlight on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ZqpK6FfXIvS35TUYjckd6?si=fe79cf9a61264247 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

17/11/2025 · Επιπρόσθετο περιεχόμενο

•

56 λεπτά
28/05/2025

The Internet Saves the Bachelor part 3

In Part 3 of The Internet Saves the Bachelor, the truth—or at least, what remains of it—is put on trial. Laura Owens takes the stand. Under oath, she admits to altering the ultrasound she submitted as evidence. Her pregnancy timeline, once shaky, now completely collapses under cross-examination. The judge wants answers. The internet sleuths want accountability. And Clayton Echard? He just wants this nightmare to end. Part 4 is available right now on Patreon and PRETEND+ on Apple Podcast Sources: SchnitzelNinja69 on YouTube Dave Neal - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveNealComedian Just Jen & Hay Bales with https://allthebestresearch.com/ Justice for Clayton - https://justiceforclayton.com/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Megan Fox - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9XP_Ax4_vTi1IqSSRD9ORQ Credits Written by: Javier Leiva & Mackenzie Ames Hosted by: Javier Leiva Music by thechicken.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

28/05/2025

•

36 λεπτά

PRETEND is an investigative true crime podcast about real people who lie for a living — con artists, scammers, and the victims caught in their web. Hosted by journalist Javier Leiva, PRETEND exposes the human psychology behind deception and fraud. Each episode follows a real case of manipulation — from financial scams and Ponzi schemes to digital hoaxes and emotional cons. PRETEND explains how and why deception works without shaming victims, combining ethical journalism with cinematic storytelling. Featured in lists of the best podcasts about con artists and scams, PRETEND investigates crimes of persuasion, trust, and betrayal. New episodes drop regularly with stories that reveal how manipulation shapes modern life, both online and off. PRETEND is produced by Creative Babble, LLC. © 2026 Creative Babble LLC [CLAIM:B6BT3XC4]

5,0 (2)

ΑΛΗΘΙΝΆ ΕΓΚΛΉΜΑΤΑ
Welcome to The Ponzi Playbook, the podcast that exposes the dark underbelly of the financial world. Join hosts Neal McTighe and Javier Leiva as they take you on a journey through the seedy world of financial fraud, exploring the twisted minds of the people behind some of the most audacious Ponzi schemes in history.

0,0 (0)

ΕΡΓΑΣΊΑ
Criminal Conduct is an investigative true-crime podcast series hosted by John Taylor and Javier Leiva. Season 1: The hosts look into the death of Michelle O'Connell, picking up the investigation where the murdered sleuth, Eli Washtock, left off. Season 2: The investigation of a rogue constable in Kentucky who is accused of planting drugs, stealing money, and shaking people down. Season 3: An American Serial Killer in Paradise: The story of serial killer William Holbert, aka "Wild Bill," and his victims. Season 4: Getting Away with Murder: The Death Investigation of Pravin Varughese Season 5: The Life and Death of Buffalo Jim Barrier

5,0 (1)

ΑΛΗΘΙΝΆ ΕΓΚΛΉΜΑΤΑ

Προβολή συχνών ερωτήσεων για τη συνδρομή

PRETEND+ is a collection of true-crime podcasts created by Javier Leiva. Get exclusive content and bonus interviews from PRETEND, CRIMINAL CONDUCT, and THE PONZI PLAYBOOK.

Ιστότοπος

Πάροχος

Ο πάροχος Javier Leiva δεν έχει αυτοπροσδιοριστεί ως έμπορος για αυτό το κανάλι. Αν είστε καταναλωτής στον Ευρωπαϊκό Οικονομικό Χώρο, τα δικαιώματα καταναλωτή δεν εφαρμόζονται στα συμφωνητικά που συνάπτονται μεταξύ εσάς και του παρόχου.

PRETEND+

Get exclusive episodes, early access, and more

Κορυφαίες εκπομπές

Listener Reaction: Didn't See It Coming Part 3

Didn't See It Coming (Part 3)

Didn't See It Coming (Part 2)

Listener Reaction: Didn't See It Coming part 2

Didn't See It Coming (Part 1)

Listener Reaction: Didn't See That Coming Part 1

The Cancer Sympathy Machine part 1

Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 5

Dakota Spotlight: Meanwhile in Mankato

The Internet Saves the Bachelor part 3

Get exclusive episodes, early access, and more

The Red Collar Killer part 2

The Stalker - Normal People (bonus)

The Stalker - Other Victims (bonus)

The Stalker part 3

The Stalker - Beyond (Bonus)

The Stalker - Dancing with the Stars (bonus)

The Real Catch Me If You Can - Sleepover with Leo (bonus)

The Stalker - It Will Never End (Bonus Content)

The Stalker part 6

The Real Catch Me If You Can part 9

Σχετικά με το podcast

PRETEND+

Get exclusive episodes, early access, and more

Κορυφαίες εκπομπές

Κορυφαία επεισόδια

PRETEND+

Get exclusive episodes, early access, and more

Κορυφαία επεισόδια PRETEND+

Σχετικά με το podcast