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The Opportunist tells true stories of regular people who turn sinister by embracing opportunity. How does an everyday person turn into a thief, a scammer or a cult leader? Perhaps the most dangerous person is the one who appears the most normal. Perhaps there is a dark potential lurking inside all of us that is just waiting for the right opportunity to emerge. The Opportunist is an original podcast hosted by Hannah Smith.
Tim Ballard E6: Crusade & Conspiracy
In this episode, we delve into Tim Ballard’s connection to QAnon conspiracy theories and the role the Sound of Freedom movie played in reinforcing these narratives. We explore how the film’s themes of child trafficking and heroic rescues mirrored common QAnon stereotypes, fueling its popularity among conspiracy believers.
38:3318/11/2024
You Might Also Like: Strict Scrutiny
Introducing Trump’s Parade of Clowns, Idiots, and Creeps from Strict Scrutiny.Follow the show: Strict ScrutinyLeah, Melissa, and Kate wade through more election fallout, including President-elect Trump’s proposed use of recess appointments to jam his cabinet picks through. Also covered: this week’s SCOTUS arguments, the tryhards auditioning to be Trump Supreme Court nominees, and why everyone should shut up about Justice Sotomayor retiring.
Follow us on Instagram, Threads, and BlueskyDISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].
00:0018/11/2024
Tim Ballard E5: The Church
In this episode, we examine how Tim Ballard's ties to the LDS Church and his relationship with Former President M. Russell Ballard may have provided cover for the controversial "couple ruse" used in undercover operations. Allegations suggest this tactic, supported by Ballard's church ties, played a role in shielding him from scrutiny as claims of inappropriate behavior surfaced.
46:0711/11/2024
Tim Ballard E4: The Couples Ruse
In this episode, we investigate the controversial "couple ruse" tactic used by Tim Ballard during undercover operations. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that this strategy blurred professional boundaries and contributed to claims of inappropriate conduct, with some accusing Ballard of predatory behavior.
55:1304/11/2024
You Might Also Like: Pod Save America
Introducing Election Night Cheat Sheet (feat. Steve Kornacki) from Pod Save America.Follow the show: Pod Save AmericaWith just two days to go, Dan sits down with Election Night guru and NBC News National Political Correspondent Steve Kornacki for a pre-election deep dive. Steve breaks down the state of the race, shares insights on key battleground states, trends among key voter groups, and which counties he's watching to signal election night outcomes. Then, Steve and Dan dig into close Senate and House races, plus some quirks in ballot-counting that could affect how quickly we get results. For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email [email protected] and include the name of the podcast. From now through the election, you can subscribe to Crooked Media's Friends of the Pod membership with a massive 25% discount. Your support helps us build the shows and initiatives we’re envisioning for 2025—it’s the best way to back our team as we create new content and launch exciting projects! Take advantage of this offer here: http://go.crooked.com/B3CLJM or sign up at the top of your Apple Podcasts feed!
DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].
00:0004/11/2024
Tim Ballard E3: A Broken Moral Compass
In this episode, we explore the pull of Tim Ballard’s powerful appeal and how his public persona drew volunteers like Bree Righter to the OUR movement. And we look at how that appeal blinded supporters to his potential misdeeds.
53:0428/10/2024
You Might Also Like: In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams
Introducing Renee Montgomery WNBA Finals Reaction, Her New Doc, Plus WNBPA Opt Out Latest with Terri Carmichael Jackson from In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams.Follow the show: In Case You Missed It with Khristina WilliamsFirst Khristina talks with WNBPA Executive Director Terri Carmichael Jackson about the WNBA Players Union deciding to opt out of the collective bargaining agreement. Khristina goes straight to the source to find out the reasons why the players want a new deal, and what they are willing to do to get it done. Plus, Khristina is joined by NCAA Champion, 2-time WNBA Champion, and current part owner and executive of the Atlanta Dream Renee Montgomery! Khristina and Renee react to the incredible WNBA Finals Series and the epic Game 5 between the Lynx and the Liberty. Renee gives her thoughts on the series and which players impressed her the most, she also talks about Coach Cheryl Reeve and how she gets the best out of her players. Renee discusses the new documentary about her, called "A Radical Act: Renee Montgomery” and how she worked with LeBron James and his production company, she even gets into her role in politics and her advice to those who want to effect change. Want more women’s basketball scoop? Follow the show on Instagram @ICYMIwithKW and X @ICYMIwithKW and for more on Khristina follow her on Instagram @khristinawilliams Let us know what you think of the show by leaving a rating and a review! CREDITS Executive Producers: Nikki Ettore Jessie Katz Tyler Klang Jonathan Strickland Supervising Producer: Peter Coughter Producer & Editor: Tari Harrison Host: Khristina WilliamsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].
00:0028/10/2024
Tim Ballard E1: For A Good Cause
In this episode, we dive into the recent allegations made by Celeste Borys against Tim Ballard, the founder of Operation Underground Railroad. Borys accuses Ballard of unethical behavior during their work together, raising serious questions about his methods and leadership. Join us as we unpack these claims and explore their potential impact on Ballard's reputation and anti-trafficking efforts.
57:5219/10/2024
Tim Ballard E2: The Origin Myth
In this episode, we explore the rise of Tim Ballard, from his claims of being in the CIA to his early days in law enforcement to at DHS.
We examine how Ballard built a global anti-trafficking organization and gained widespread attention for his daring rescue missions. Tune in to hear the story behind the man and the movement that has sparked both praise and controversy.
43:5719/10/2024
Sneak Preview of a New Season of “The Opportunist”
Join the host and producers of The Opportunist for a behind-the-scenes discussion on some of the most captivating single-story episodes from the past season.
Plus, get an exclusive sneak peek at the twists and turns of the upcoming season, which will delve into the rise and fall of Tim Ballard, the founder of the anti-sex trafficking organization Operation Underground Railroad.
36:0030/09/2024
Dr. Henry Lee: Evidence of Foul Play
In this episode, we dive into the controversial career of forensic scientist Dr. Henry Lee, exploring allegations that he may have fabricated or mishandled evidence in several high-profile cases.
Did one of America's most famous forensic experts use his scientific credentials to help investigators in convicting two innocent men?
00:0016/09/2024
Baby Doe: An Afghan Abduction
In this episode, we delve into the controversial story of U.S. Marine Joshua Mast, who adopted a young Afghan girl under questionable circumstances.
Using the 2021 fall of Afghanistan and its ensuing chaos as a pretext, Mast navigated legal and ethical gray areas to carry out the adoption, sparking intense debate and legal battles.
55:3809/09/2024
Arian Taherzadeh & Haider Ali: Highstakes Cosplay
In this episode of The Opportunist, we explore the bizarre case of Arian Taherzadeh and Haider Ali, who posed as federal agents and infiltrated the highest levels of the U.S. Secret Service with astonishing ease.
We delve into the duo's motivations, the extent of their deception, and the ramifications of their actions on national security.
Tune in to learn how these two individuals turned deception into an audacious opportunity, exposing serious security flaws surrounding President Joe Biden and his family.
41:4302/09/2024
David Xu: Toxic Workplace
In this episode of “The Opportunist,” we explore the chilling case of David Xu, a seemingly ordinary engineer who attempted to poison his coworker with cadmium over a period of several months.
We explore his twisted motives behind his actions and uncover the dark side of a workplace rivalry.
45:5926/08/2024
Judge Jeffrey Ferguson: Deadly Lapse of Judgment
Is justice really blind?
In this week’s episode of “The Opportunist” we explore the shocking case of Judge Jeffrey Ferguson. Known as a strict law and order judge, Ferguson is accused of shooting his wife during a drunken rage.
Despite admitting to the murder via text message, Judge Ferguson is currently out on bail and has been allowed to leave the state of California.
Is Judge Fergeson leveraging his deep connections within the judicial system to receive preferential treatment?
44:0119/08/2024
Sebastián Marset: The Ultimate Score
Sebastián Marset is currently one of South America’s most powerful drug traffickers - opening new cocaine trafficking routes to Europe.
In this episode of the "The Opportunist," we explore his rise to power and uncover how Marset cunningly used soccer to hide in plain sight, and to launder vast drug profits.
48:1812/08/2024
Ruby Corado: Casa of Cards
Casa Ruby was once a vibrant shelter offering essential services to Washington D.C.'s vulnerable and at-risk LGBTQ+ community.
The non-profit shelter was the vision of Ruby Corado, an activist born in El Salvador, who dedicated her life to advocating for gay and transgender individuals. Her efforts garnered numerous awards and helped her secure millions in government grants and donations from wealthy philanthropists.
However, suddenly the shelter closed, and Corado fled the country.
54:0203/08/2024
Sam Haskell IV: Second-Rate Slasher
As the son of a powerful Hollywood agent, Sam Haskell IV seemed to have everything at his fingertips - money, power and connections.
But when a homeless man discovers part of a human body in a dumpster in an upscale Los Angeles neighborhood, Haskell’s dark secret is revealed.
43:4229/07/2024
Sister Mary Margaret Kreuper: Unholy Roller
To the families of St. James Catholic School in Torrance, California, Sister Mary Margaret Kreuper and Sister Lana Chang were the picture of morality and religious devotion.
The two lifelong educators were known at St. James as stern disciplinarians, who instilled their students with Christian values that were disappearing from society.
But the nuns had a secret addiction, an addition that would rip apart the small Christian community.
43:1622/07/2024
The Curse of “The Three Body Problem”
Xu Yao’s career potential seemed limitless.
The Chinese lawyer and entertainment executive was in charge of all business related to the best selling Chinese science fiction trilogy, and soon to be hit Netflix show, “The Three Body Problem.”
But then, overnight, the entire franchise, and all of the life changing wealth that came with it, was all taken from Xu Yao. He had been demoted.
Xu Yao’s demotion set in motion a revenge plot ripped from the pages of a Hollywood script.
27:4815/07/2024
The Fake CIA Spy
As the veteran and former spokesperson for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, Garrison Courtney seemed destined to end up as a Washington, DC powerbroker.
But Courtney had a secret. He was a conman and was tricking some of America’s most senior National Security officials out of millions of dollars.
36:3308/07/2024
Vigilante - Byron David Smith: THE DEER HUNTER
Byron Smith was tired of his home being burgled. He said it had been broken into at least a half dozen times. And he was determined not to let it happen again.
So, Smith set a trap and laid in wait to protect his “castle.”
When two teenage cousins broke into his house on Elm Street, it set off a true-life horror story.
Listen to Vigilante:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vigilante/id1622288667
https://open.spotify.com/show/49wzulSXKQKWYOIWoTVEPT?si=0d4c8835885e4fa1
19:0328/05/2024
Vault Release: CHRIS BATHUM Part 5 of 5: Criminal
Multiple investigations close in on Chris Bathum as his behavior leads to dire consequences, including a drug arrest with a former CRLA client named Erika Littell. As his criminal trial gets underway, the prosecution battles with the idea of victim credibility, and Chris' defense is unintentionally reinvigorated thanks to evidence provided by Cliff Brodsky.
54:0406/05/2024
Vault Release: CHRIS BATHUM Part 4 of 5: The Sleeping Bear
Rose searches for evidence to bring to law enforcement and comes across a CRLA laptop, as Jill realizes the awful truth behind Chris' behavior. A hopeful new client named Amanda enters CRLA with the intent to stay sober, but suddenly finds herself isolated and alone with Chris Bathum.
52:0729/04/2024
Vault Release: CHRIS BATHUM Part 3 of 5: Rumors
More rumors circulate around Chris Bathum, especially over the death of a beloved client named Mo. Meanwhile, a devoted employee named Jill is skeptical of CRLA's insurance billing and Rose sets out to find the truth behind the biggest rumor of them all.
54:5822/04/2024
Vault Release: CHRIS BATHUM Part 2 of 5: Hypnotist
Chris tells Rose that all the rumors about him are because of Cliff Brodsky, a former investor in CRLA's predecessor, Walking Miracles. Chris paints Brodsky as his nemesis, an unhinged wild card who wants to destroy their community. But his battle against Brodsky gets out of hand when he suggests desperate measures to stop him.
50:5315/04/2024
Vault Release: CHRIS BATHUM Part 1 of 5: Rehab Mogul
In 2013, Rose Stahl sought the help of Christopher Bathum, a therapist and CEO of a burgeoning recovery organization called Community Recovery Los Angeles. Chris would eventually offer Rose a job at CRLA. But after a while, she started hearing unsettling rumors surrounding Chris' behavior, especially towards female clients.
Find the episode transcript here: tinyurl.com/opppodcast
55:2408/04/2024
Welcome To Varnamtown! Available now!
Two years ago, Kyle MacLachlan, the star of Twin Peaks, called investigative journalist Joshua Davis with a strange story. Kyle had heard a rumor that Pablo Escobar did a deal in the early 1980s with a remote, coastal Southern town of 300 people. In exchange for vast wealth and limitless cocaine, Escobar would be allowed to land planes and ships in the area. Over the last 24 months, Josh and Kyle investigated the rumor, journeying to Varnamtown to knock on doors and find out what really happens when a firehose of money and cocaine is turned on a small, tight knit community.
Listen to and follow Varnamtown at Apple Podcasts now! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/varnamtown/id1725195343
03:0925/01/2024
End of Year Wrap Up 2023
In this wrap up episode for 2023, Hannah revisits some of your favorite episodes and seasons and gives updates! She also takes questions and voicemails from listeners, including one listener who writes in with a bizarre mystery that she wants your help to solve.
Hannah checks back in with people she interviewed years ago as well as gives an update on Sherry Shriner's followers and speaks with someone who has a very personal relationship with Orgone.
Links from the episode:
Check out C.C.’s plant-urns at boycestudio.com
If you want to stay up-to-date with Nora's project on her father, you can find her on Instagram @Noracroftcutsmyhair
Visit the Adrienne Wilson Liver Cancer Association at bluefaery.org
You can reach out to Hannah on Instagram or X @hannahpodcasts
01:03:4014/11/2023
MARC ST-ONGE Part 1 of 1: The Mudman
In early 2021, a new product went viral in health and wellness spaces on Facebook. Black Oxygen Organics (or BOO) was an MLM selling what was touted as the "miracle cure." What was it? It was mud. Actual mud that people were eating, drinking, bathing in and giving to their babies and pets. Many claimed it cured their COVID symptoms. But this product was not what it claimed to be. What was it actually doing to people? The man behind it all was Marc St-Onge and he watched as millions of orders flooded in.
39:4031/10/2023
Show Announcement + Mini Episode
Enjoy today's mini episode about a guardianship scam and please send your stories and questions to:
[email protected]
or on Instagram or Twitter/X @hannahpodcasts
Thank you Lindsey Dominguez for sharing your story! Her podcast is called What's Up ABQ.
15:4227/10/2023
KIMBERLY SMITH Part 5 of 5: A Breath of Stale Air
Fred and Stacia anxiously wait for Kimberly Smith to face justice and continue to look for answers as to how Goldie Robinson died.
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45:1119/09/2023
KIMBERLY SMITH Part 4 of 5: The Motel Room
While the fraud case against Kimberly Smith had a robust paper trail, the homicide case did not. Detectives interview Adam Smith and his high school friend about the events surrounding Arthur Sheldon's death and a motel room in Orange City, Florida.
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Hello Fresh: Go to Hellofresh.com/50opp and use code 50opp for 50% off plus free shipping!Go to HelloFresh dot com slash 50opp and use code 50opp for 50% off plus free shippingGo to HelloFresh dot com slash 50opp and use code 50opp for 50% off plus free shipping!
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42:1612/09/2023
KIMBERLY SMITH Part 3 of 5: Where is Goldie Robinson?
Detectives interview Kim's boyfriend, David Enos, looking for answers on Goldie Robinson's whereabouts. There is another discovery in the case that changes the scope and approach of the investigation.
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41:2205/09/2023
KIMBERLY SMITH Part 2 of 5: Dawn
A gruesome discovery shocks everyone including the detectives and expands the case far beyond one missing person.
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Hello Fresh: Go to Hellofresh.com/50opp and use code 50opp for 50% off plus free shipping!Go to HelloFresh dot com slash 50opp and use code 50opp for 50% off plus free shippingGo to HelloFresh dot com slash 50opp and use code 50opp for 50% off plus free shipping!”
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35:2528/08/2023
KIMBERLY SMITH Part 1 of 5: Bad Wrong
In August of 2010, 78-yr-old Goldie Mae Robinson disappeared. The police investigation upended the quiet little town of South Daytona, Florida. Goldie was in good health, knew her neighbors and had lived in the same mobile home park for over 30 years. Her son Fred was astounded that she has just vanished. The search for Goldie Robinson revealed that her life was intricately intertwined with her neighbor, friend and caretaker, Kimberly Smith.
You can reach out to us at [email protected]
Find the episode transcript here: tinyurl.com/opppodcast
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Thank you to our sponsors:
Hello Fresh: Go to Hellofresh.com/50opp and use code 50opp for 50% off plus free shipping!Go to HelloFresh dot com slash 50opp and use code 50opp for 50% off plus free shipping. Go to HelloFresh dot com slash 50OPP and use code 50OPP for 50% off plus free shipping!
Shopify: sign up for a $1-per-month trial at shopify.com/opp
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Sports Explains the World: To hear incredible stories from the wide world of sports, listen to Sports Explains the World on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts.
Canva: Get a free 45-day trial when you go to Canva.me/opp
Better Help: This show is sponsored by Better Help. Go to Betterhelp.com/opp to get 10% off your first month.
41:5522/08/2023
MARION BERNTSEN Part 1 of 1: Paper Terrorist
Marion Berntsen was in her 70s when she began renting rooms in suburban Illinois, appearing to be a quiet, elderly lady. What her housemates didn't realize is that Marion was actually a domestic terrorist, determined to upend their lives.
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43:5104/07/2023
GREG GUMUCIO Part 1 of 1: Circle of Trust
Greg Gumucio was the founder of a yoga empire called Yoga to the People, professing that yoga was for everyone. But behind the loving mantras and thriving studios, was a man obsessed with making money and controlling women.
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47:1527/06/2023
GAYLE PALMER Part 7 of 7: Criminally Minded
Gayle Palmer moves her program into Nevada after being denied a license to operate in Utah. The Suttons seek justice for Michelle by suing Gayle and Summit Quest.
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45:5530/05/2023
GAYLE PALMER Part 6 of 7: Window of Loss
After discovering the truth about Michelle’s death, Cathy goes on a crusade to shut down Summit Quest. But Gayle is determined to fight. Would she be held responsible for what happened to Michelle?
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41:2823/05/2023
GAYLE PALMER Part 5 of 7: Far From Over
Amanda and the other survivors are uncertain of their fate. Gayle Palmer continues to operate Summit Quest even as she’s being investigated for Michelle’s death. Meanwhile, Cathy Sutton begins to piece together the truth of what happened.
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40:5416/05/2023
GAYLE PALMER Part 4 of 7: I Hate This Place
Amanda DeRose attended Summit Quest with Michelle in May of 1990. She shares her experience of the program, including what happened to Michelle on the last day of her life.
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44:3309/05/2023
GAYLE PALMER Part 3 of 7: Damage Control
The Sutton family continues to search for answers as an investigation is opened into Michelle’s death. Gayle Palmer tries to convince the Suttons, the police, and the media that Summit Quest is not at fault, even as evidence to the contrary begins to emerge.
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40:5802/05/2023
GAYLE PALMER Part 2 of 7: The Price of Admission
Before Summit Quest, Gayle Palmer worked at another wilderness therapy program called Challenger. Challenger was founded by Steve Cartisano, who is generally viewed now as a con artist.
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44:0825/04/2023
GAYLE PALMER Part 1 of 7: The Deadly Mirage
In May of 1990, 15-year-old Michelle Sutton attended a wilderness therapy program called Summit Quest. It was a 63-day program promoted as a way to help stuggling teens, founded by Gayle Palmer. But after only nine days, Michelle Sutton was dead. Was this a tragic accident, or the result of a more calcuated pattern of abuse in a burgeoning industry?
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43:5125/04/2023
SHAWN PARCELLS Part 1 of 1: The Assistant
In 2018, Katrina Gay turned to National Autopsy Services to get answers about her mother's death. The man performing the autopsy, Shawn Parcells, claimed to be a forensic expert. But an investigation into his past would call into question Shawn Parcells' credentials. Was he really qualified to be performing autopsies? And what would that mean for the hundreds of grieving families who had used his services?
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51:3821/02/2023
DR. SCOTT CHARMOLI Part 1 of 1: Broken Trust
Trusted Wisconsin dentist Dr. Scott Charmoli had a thriving practice. But his new patient, Jackie, began to suspect there was a dark side to his work. 
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47:5220/12/2022
ALL-STAR #3 Part 1 of 1: Comic Conned
In 1940, the comic book All-Star #3 introduced the world to the Justice Society for the very first time. 70 years later, All-Star #3 made headlines again—this time for being at the center of not one, but two crimes.
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46:3013/12/2022
AUBREY LEE PRICE Epilogue: A Terrible Road
Hannah Smith speaks with Lee Price to hear his side of the story, and also shares a conversation with another Opportunist producer about the many discrepancies between Lee's version of the events and other interviews.
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The ending credits song is called "The Crow" by Paul Graham Stanborough.
48:2215/11/2022
AUBREY LEE PRICE Part 4 of 4: You're Gonna Be Famous
Lee's time on the run comes to an unexpected end. And those who mourned his death are stunned to learn he is alive.
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You can purchase Opportunist merchandise here: https://theopportunistpodcast.com/ 
The ending credits song is called "The Crow" by Paul Graham Stanborough.
52:4208/11/2022