The Dark Side of Finance

Darryl Lyons
The Dark Side of Finance

Welcome to The Dark Side of Finance, where we uncover the hidden world of financial crime. In each episode, we expose the schemes, scams, and deceptive tactics that lurk in the shadows of the financial industry. Join your host Darryl Lyons as he shines a light on these dark corners to help you protect you and your loved ones.

Episódios

  1. Horror Investments: A Financial Advisor’s Shocking Misuse of Trust

    HÁ 4 DIAS

    Horror Investments: A Financial Advisor’s Shocking Misuse of Trust

    In this week’s episode of The Dark Side of Finance, Darryl Lyons dives into the murky world of independent film investments and the devastating consequences of financial misconduct within the industry. Centered on the story of Helen Grace Caldwell, a former Citigroup advisor turned horror film producer, this episode unravels how Caldwell exploited her position to manipulate elderly clients into funding low-budget, niche movies. Darryl explores how Caldwell’s unchecked access to client accounts enabled her to misappropriate millions of dollars. Through vivid storytelling and expert insights, Darryl uncovers the systemic gaps that allowed Caldwell to operate for nearly a decade before her eventual downfall. Key show highlights include: The intersection of banking and investment advisory roles - and the systemic risks they can create. How Caldwell misused client trust to fund bizarre and graphic horror films. The critical warning signs of financial exploitation, particularly among vulnerable seniors. Lessons on safeguarding your loved ones from manipulative advisors. Join Darryl as he paints a vivid picture of how an advisor’s outside business activities can lead to financial devastation. With actionable tips to protect yourself and your family, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to stay vigilant in today’s financial landscape. As always, keep your head on a swivel as we explore The Dark Side of Finance. Resources: Inside an indie: Making a film from scratch without a Hollywood budget - CNET Citi VP accused of exploiting older clients | Injustice Watch https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndil/media/1333171/dl?inline HELEN GRACE CALDWELL - BrokerCheck

    24min
  2. The $50,000 Scam: How Even Experts Can Be Fooled

    29 DE NOV.

    The $50,000 Scam: How Even Experts Can Be Fooled

    In this week’s eye-opening episode of The Dark Side of Finance, Darryl Lyons unpacks the harrowing story of Charlotte Cowles, a successful financial journalist whose expertise couldn’t shield her from becoming the victim of a sophisticated scam. Charlotte, known for her insightful personal finance columns, fell prey to a group of con artists who manipulated her trust, used fear tactics, and ultimately stole $50,000 of her savings. Darryl explores how scammers exploited Charlotte’s vulnerability with a chillingly calculated methodology, including fake calls from Amazon, the Federal Trade Commission, and even the CIA. Through deceitful claims of fraud investigations and threats to her family's safety, the con artists meticulously blocked Charlotte’s access to outside advice, leading her to unwittingly hand over her hard-earned money. Key show highlights include: • How scammers convincingly impersonated legitimate organizations like Amazon and the FTC. • The psychological manipulation tactics used to isolate victims and gain their trust. • A breakdown of the red flags Charlotte missed and how to spot them in similar situations. • Why even financial experts can fall for well-crafted scams—and how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Join Darryl as he examines the dark psychology behind modern scams and shares valuable lessons to safeguard your finances in an increasingly deceptive world. Don’t miss this episode if you want to stay informed and vigilant. As always, keep your head on a swivel as we navigate the dark side of finance together. Resource: How I Fell for an Amazon Scam Call and Handed Over $50,000

    21min
  3. Crypto Deception: The Rise and Fall of Sam Bankman-Fried

    15 DE NOV.

    Crypto Deception: The Rise and Fall of Sam Bankman-Fried

    In today’s episode of The Dark Side of Finance, Darryl Lyons dives into the fascinating and shocking story of Sam Bankman-Fried, the crypto wunderkind whose fall from grace has rocked the financial world. Once hailed as a visionary in the world of cryptocurrency, Sam went from rubbing shoulders with celebrities like Tom Brady to serving time in prison for one of the largest embezzlement scandals in recent history. This episode uncovers how Bankman-Fried, founder of Alameda Research and FTX, embezzled billions of dollars from unsuspecting investors under the guise of innovation and philanthropy. From cozying up to politicians and manipulating the public's trust, to creating a culture of secrecy and deception within his firms, this real-life tale of crypto fraud highlights the dangers of unchecked influence and financial mismanagement. Key show highlights include: The rise and fall of Sam Bankman-Fried and his $8 billion crypto embezzlement. How Sam used his charm, celebrity endorsements, and altruistic claims to manipulate investors and the media. The inner workings of FTX and Alameda, including how he diverted funds and concealed his actions. Why this case is a cautionary tale for anyone entrusting their money to influential figures. Join Darryl as he explores the dark side of crypto, where promises of revolutionary wealth gave way to one of the most significant financial crimes of the modern era. Don't miss this episode if you're interested in learning how to spot fraudsters in an ever-evolving financial landscape. And as always, remember to keep your head on a swivel as we navigate the dark side of finance together.

    16min
  4. Faith and Fraud: The Case of "The Investment Preacher"

    1 DE NOV.

    Faith and Fraud: The Case of "The Investment Preacher"

    In this week’s episode of The Dark Side of Finance, Darryl Lyons tackles a fresh and deeply personal case, shedding light on a financial scandal that’s still unfolding. This episode dives into the case of David Anthony Wright, a former pastor-turned-financial advisor, who defrauded clients under the guise of faith. Known as "The Investment Preacher," Wright orchestrated a $2 million fraud by selling fraudulent promissory notes to clients while misleading them with promises of safety, religious rhetoric, and misused biblical references. The twist? Wright himself may have been conned, leading to an even more convoluted outcome. Key show highlights include: The shocking case of David Anthony Wright, "The Investment Preacher," and his $2 million fraud. How Wright misused scripture and faith to gain trust and mislead his clients. A warning about the dangers of wolves in sheep's clothing within the financial services industry. The importance of scrutinizing financial advisors who incorporate faith into their practices and the role of trust in the capitalist system. Join Darryl as he unpacks this ongoing story of deception, faith, and financial misconduct, and offers insights on how to protect yourself from similar schemes. If you find this episode valuable, share it with others. Keep your head on a swivel as we navigate the dark side of finance together. Resources: Faith-based advisor and minister defrauds clients in Tennessee, SEC charges - Investment News Faith Based Investing Explained - YouTube

    17min
  5. The Queen of Mobile Homes: The Chimene Van Gundy Story

    4 DE OUT.

    The Queen of Mobile Homes: The Chimene Van Gundy Story

    In this week’s episode of The Dark Side of Finance, CEO and co-founder of PAX Financial Group, Darryl Lyons, tells the astonishing story of Chimene Van Gundy, a woman who rose from extreme poverty and foster care to amass a multi-million-dollar fortune flipping mobile homes. However, her success story takes a dark turn as she becomes embroiled in a financial scandal that left hundreds of investors in financial ruin. Key show highlights include: The incredible rags-to-riches story of Chimene Van Gundy, who built a $2 million fortune flipping mobile homes. An exploration of the lucrative but ethically murky mobile home industry and the financial strategies Chimene used to grow her empire. The unraveling of her scheme, leading to an $18.5 million fraud case that devastated 600 investors across the country. Insights into how deceptive practices and misrepresentations tricked investors into believing in a secure and profitable venture. Tips on how to avoid falling prey to high-return investment scams that target everyday people. Tune into this week’s episode to uncover the dramatic rise and fall of Chimene Van Gundy and gain the knowledge necessary to protect your financial future. Keep your head on a swivel, and let’s navigate this dark side together. If you enjoyed the episode, share it with a family member or a friend! References: Investors allege San Antonio-area woman — the ‘Queen of Mobile Homes’ — is running a Ponzi scheme (expressnews.com)  SEC Sues New Braunfels’ “Queen Of Mobile Homes” for Fraud (therealdeal.com)  Prefabricated Facts: SEC Charges "Queen of Mobile Homes," Others for Years-Long Scheme | Insights | Holland & Knight (hklaw.com)  Chimene Van Gundy, Outstanding Real Estate Solutions, Inc., Michael Trofimoff, Santos Kidd, and Maria Tosta (sec.gov)  PressReader.com - Digital Newspaper & Magazine Subscriptions

    22min

Classificações e avaliações

5
de 5
4 avaliações

Sobre

Welcome to The Dark Side of Finance, where we uncover the hidden world of financial crime. In each episode, we expose the schemes, scams, and deceptive tactics that lurk in the shadows of the financial industry. Join your host Darryl Lyons as he shines a light on these dark corners to help you protect you and your loved ones.

Você também pode gostar de

Para ouvir episódios explícitos, inicie sessão.

Fique por dentro deste podcast

Inicie sessão ou crie uma conta para seguir podcasts, salvar episódios e receber as atualizações mais recentes.

Selecionar um país ou região

África, Oriente Médio e Índia

Ásia‑Pacífico

Europa

América Latina e Caribe

Estados Unidos e Canadá