 PRETEND is a documentary-style podcast about con artists and real people pretending to be someone else.  Javier Leiva interviews real con artists, snake oil salesmen, and former cult members–anyone living a lie.PRETEND is consistently in the top True Crime Podcasts in U.S., UK, Canada, and Australia. It has been featured in the New York Times, the BBC, and New York Magazine. In 2018, Vulture named PRETEND one of the top 52 True Crime podcasts in the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1> <a href="http://pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PRETEND</a> is a documentary-style podcast about con artists and real people pretending to be someone else.  </h1>Javier Leiva interviews real con artists, snake oil salesmen, and former cult members–anyone living a lie. <a href="http://pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PRETEND</a> is consistently in the top True Crime Podcasts in U.S., UK, Canada, and Australia.  It has been featured in the<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/12/style/liars-catfishing-deception.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> New York Times</a>, the<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-48231388" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> BBC</a>, and<a href="https://www.vulture.com/2018/10/best-weekly-true-crime-podcast-episodes-10-4.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> New York Magazine</a>. In 2018,<a href="https://www.vulture.com/2018/10/best-weekly-true-crime-podcast-episodes-10-4.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Vulture</a> named PRETEND one of the top 52 True Crime podcasts in the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

PRETEND Podcast Trailer

///UPDATE///Start with Season 3, episode 1. After covering this cult, I was personally invited by the cult leader to spend the day with her. You won't want to miss it.///UPDATE///The Prophet part 1 explores The Word of Faith Fellowship. You will hear about the accused cult leader, Pastor Jane Whaley, who many inside the sect believe is a prophet with direct communication with God. John Cooper describes the day 20 to 30 sect members surrounded and attacked him. He also shares secret recordings of Pastor Jane Whaley commanding someone to throw someone down to the ground. Plus, you’ll hear “blasting prayers” — ear-piercing crying sessions meant to cast out demons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

///UPDATE///<h2> </h2><h2>Start with <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4wvQwgTDC0XPEo5rkkW2Uj?si=292c9d649d2c4963" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Season 3, episode 1</a>. After covering this cult, I was personally invited by the cult leader to spend the day with her. You won't want to miss it.</h2> ///UPDATE/// The Prophet part 1 explores The Word of Faith Fellowship. You will hear about the accused cult leader, Pastor Jane Whaley, who many inside the sect believe is a prophet with direct communication with God. John Cooper describes the day 20 to 30 sect members surrounded and attacked him. He also shares secret recordings of Pastor Jane Whaley commanding someone to throw someone down to the ground. Plus, you’ll hear “blasting prayers” — ear-piercing crying sessions meant to cast out demons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S101: The Prophet Part 1 - Word of Faith Fellowship

John Cooper remembers one of the Word of Faith Fellowship ministers commanding him to beat his wife. He also describes his family’s attempt to what he describes as a cult. Then it finally happened. John escaped. We’ll listen to secret recordings of pastor Jane Whaley trying to lure him back.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Cooper remembers one of the Word of Faith Fellowship ministers commanding him to beat his wife. He also describes his family’s attempt to what he describes as a cult. Then it finally happened. John escaped. We’ll listen to secret recordings of pastor Jane Whaley trying to lure him back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S102: The Prophet Part 2 - Word of Faith Fellowship

In the Prophet part 3, we’ll look at the Word of Faith Fellowship from a completely different lens. We’ll hear from current sect members and get their version of the story. Plus, you'll hear the latest on trial against five ministers accused of beating and kidnapping Michael Fenner. If you enjoy the show, consider donating a dollar: https://patreon.com/user?u=5971503&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=creatorshare2 Follow us on: Twitter: @pretend_radio Facebook: www.facebook.com/PretendRadioPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the Prophet part 3, we’ll look at the Word of Faith Fellowship from a completely different lens. We’ll hear from current sect members and get their version of the story. Plus, you'll hear the latest on trial against five ministers accused of beating and kidnapping Michael Fenner. If you enjoy the show, consider donating a dollar: <a href="https://patreon.com/user?u=5971503&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=creatorshare2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://patreon.com/user?u=5971503&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=creatorshare2</a> Follow us on: Twitter: @pretend_radio Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/PretendRadioPodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/PretendRadioPodcast</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S103: The Prophet Part 3 - Word of Faith Fellowship

In part one of the Birth of a Con Man, hear how man became a career criminal—a con-man. First, he started scamming auto insurance companies. Then the con got bigger and more elaborate. You see, that’s how it works. Once a con man gets away with it, they have to do it again. But the next time, the con is bigger and more complex. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In part one of the Birth of a Con Man, hear how man became a career criminal—a con-man. First, he started scamming auto insurance companies. Then the con got bigger and more elaborate. You see, that’s how it works. Once a con man gets away with it, they have to do it again. But the next time, the con is bigger and more complex. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S104: Birth of a Con Man Part 1

Previously on Pretend Radio we witnessed the birth of a con man.A man started his criminal career as a street thug and worked his way up to car insurance scam artist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<a href="http://pretendradio.org/birth-of-a-con-man-part-1/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Previously on Pretend Radio</a> we witnessed the birth of a con man.A man started his criminal career as a street thug and worked his way up to car insurance scam artist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S105: Birth of a Con Man Part 2 - Opioid epidemic 

Todd Kohlhepp

This week’s story is about self-professed serial killer Todd Kohlhepp. What’s terrifying about Todd Kohlhepp? He’s not the type of serial killer you see in the movies. He doesn’t collect body parts in his fridge. He doesn’t taunt the media with riddles. He seems like a normal guy who owns a successful real estate company. Listen as his last surviving victim describes how he killed her boyfriend and locked her up in a shipping container for weeks. And that's just the beginning. SUBSCRIBE NOWApple Podcasts: tiny.cc/PretendApplePodcastGoogle Play: tiny.cc/PretendGooglePlayStitcher: tiny.cc/PretendStitcher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week’s story is about self-professed serial killer Todd Kohlhepp. What’s terrifying about Todd Kohlhepp? He’s not the type of serial killer you see in the movies. He doesn’t collect body parts in his fridge. He doesn’t taunt the media with riddles. He seems like a normal guy who owns a successful real estate company. Listen as his last surviving victim describes how he killed her boyfriend and locked her up in a shipping container for weeks. And that's just the beginning. SUBSCRIBE NOWApple Podcasts: <a href="http://tiny.cc/PretendApplePodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tiny.cc/PretendApplePodcast</a>Google Play: <a href="http://tiny.cc/PretendGooglePlay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tiny.cc/PretendGooglePlay</a>Stitcher: <a href="http://tiny.cc/PretendStitcher" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tiny.cc/PretendStitcher</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S106: The Real Estate Agent Part 1 - Todd Kohlhepp

South Carolina serial killer Todd Kohlhepp confesses to the Superbike Motorsports mass murder. This is part 2 of "The Real Estate Agent." I suggest starting with part 1. It was a Thursday morning. Kohlhepp walked into the Superbike motorsports store and started scoping out the place. He’s not shopping for motorcycle. He’s looking for his next victims. Kohlhepp: "I got there. Not everybody was there. I went in sat on a few bikes, did my usual. Basically buying for time. And doing my best to make sure the paying customers are not there. Collateral damage is not cool. I chose a time when it was not busy. A time after work when I would have a lot of people in there. I did not want to shoot other people. Finally all four show up. From the sound of it nobody else was there." The four people Kohlhepp is referencing are Brian Lucas, Chris Sherbert, Scott Ponder, and Scott’s mother Beverly Guy. Investigator: "When you say all four?" Kohlhepp: "All the four people who work at the bike store. The mechanic, the mom. I was not going for the mom but she was there at the time. Working there. She was thrown into it. She was not a primary target." The store finally cleared. Kohlhepp was the only customer in the store. He tells one of the employees that he’s interested in a certain bike. Kohlhepp: "I cleared that room in under 30 seconds. You guys would have been proud. I’m sorry but you guys would have been proud." This was the crime Kohlhepp got away with. Nobody was looking for him. Why would he confess? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

South Carolina serial killer Todd Kohlhepp confesses to the Superbike Motorsports mass murder. This is part 2 of "The Real Estate Agent." I suggest starting with part 1. It was a Thursday morning. Kohlhepp walked into the Superbike motorsports store and started scoping out the place. He’s not shopping for motorcycle. He’s looking for his next victims. Kohlhepp: "I got there. Not everybody was there. I went in sat on a few bikes, did my usual. Basically buying for time. And doing my best to make sure the paying customers are not there. Collateral damage is not cool. I chose a time when it was not busy. A time after work when I would have a lot of people in there. I did not want to shoot other people. Finally all four show up. From the sound of it nobody else was there." The four people Kohlhepp is referencing are Brian Lucas, Chris Sherbert, Scott Ponder, and Scott’s mother Beverly Guy. Investigator: "When you say all four?" Kohlhepp: "All the four people who work at the bike store. The mechanic, the mom. I was not going for the mom but she was there at the time. Working there. She was thrown into it. She was not a primary target." The store finally cleared. Kohlhepp was the only customer in the store. He tells one of the employees that he’s interested in a certain bike. Kohlhepp: "I cleared that room in under 30 seconds. You guys would have been proud. I’m sorry but you guys would have been proud." This was the crime Kohlhepp got away with. Nobody was looking for him. Why would he confess? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S107: The Real Estate Agent - Part 2 - Todd Kohlhepp

Sharon McConnell-Dickerson is preserving the Mississippi Delta blues with her own two hands. She's doing it by creating molds of some of the most influential blues musicians of our time. The lifecasts include a mask of Bobby “Blue” Bland, Little Milton from Memphis, “Honeyboy” Edwards from Chicago, and Pinetop Perkins from Clarksdale, just to name a few – almost 60 musicians total. http://mcconnelldickersonart.com/blues-lifecast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sharon McConnell-Dickerson is preserving the Mississippi Delta blues with her own two hands. She's doing it by creating molds of some of the most influential blues musicians of our time. The lifecasts include a mask of Bobby “Blue” Bland, Little Milton from Memphis, “Honeyboy” Edwards from Chicago, and Pinetop Perkins from Clarksdale, just to name a few – almost 60 musicians total. <a href="http://mcconnelldickersonart.com/blues-lifecast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://mcconnelldickersonart.com/blues-lifecast</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S108: The Sculptor

Marc Ruskin

Before Marc Ruskin was an undercover FBI agent, he was an assistant DA in Brooklyn. Why did he give up his career as a powerful attorney to join the FBI academy? Well, in order to prosecute criminals, you have to catch them first. It didn’t take long for Marc to become an undercover agent. For 27 years, he slipped into various different characters busting criminals ranging from drug dealers to Wall Street insiders. At one point, Marc was juggling three or four cases at a time – switching back and forth between identities. He wrote a book about his time at the FBI appropriately titled “The Pretender.” When I first discovered his book I immediately shot him a message. Luckily for me, he agreed to share some of his stories. In the late 80s and early 90s, San Juan Puerto Rico had one of the highest murder rates of any US city. Some of the violence can be blamed on the Machetero, a separatist group actively trying to make Puerto Rico and independent country. Marc: "So I had gone from being an attorney in New York where the biggest thing I had to worry about was a papercut. Now I was in the streets of San Juan Puerto Rico as a combatant to the Macheteros. We learned at one point that the Macheteros had a plot to assassinate an FBI agent. The problem was, we didn’t know who the FBI agent was." Listen to my interview with Marc Ruskin on part 1 of "The Pretender" on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts. You can find The Pretender on Amazon.com or at your local bookstore.Purchase Marc Ruskin's autobiography titled The Pretender:https://amzn.to/3dRXbglAlso, you can follow Marc Ruskin on Twitter http://twitter.com/mhruskin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before Marc Ruskin was an undercover FBI agent, he was an assistant DA in Brooklyn. Why did he give up his career as a powerful attorney to join the FBI academy? Well, in order to prosecute criminals, you have to catch them first. It didn’t take long for Marc to become an undercover agent. For 27 years, he slipped into various different characters busting criminals ranging from drug dealers to Wall Street insiders. At one point, Marc was juggling three or four cases at a time – switching back and forth between identities. He wrote a book about his time at the FBI appropriately titled “The Pretender.” When I first discovered his book I immediately shot him a message. Luckily for me, he agreed to share some of his stories. In the late 80s and early 90s, San Juan Puerto Rico had one of the highest murder rates of any US city. Some of the violence can be blamed on the Machetero, a separatist group actively trying to make Puerto Rico and independent country. Marc: "So I had gone from being an attorney in New York where the biggest thing I had to worry about was a papercut. Now I was in the streets of San Juan Puerto Rico as a combatant to the Macheteros. We learned at one point that the Macheteros had a plot to assassinate an FBI agent. The problem was, we didn’t know who the FBI agent was." Listen to my interview with Marc Ruskin on part 1 of "The Pretender" on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts. You can find The Pretender on <a href="http://Amazon.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon.com</a> or at your local bookstore. Purchase Marc Ruskin's autobiography titled The Pretender:<a href="https://amzn.to/3dRXbgl" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3dRXbgl</a> Also, you can follow Marc Ruskin on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/mhruskin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/mhruskin</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S109: The Pretender Part 1 - Undercover FBI Agent Marc Ruskin

PRETEND exposes the masterminds behind some of the most notorious scams and cons. From cult leaders to con artists and undercover FBI agents, this podcast pulls back the curtain on those who've pretended to be someone they're not.

Worth the listens for the Cousins and Sugardaddy episodes in particular.

Interesting

So happy I found this, great stories with a fabulous host, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

Yes!! My new FAV podcast!!!

Pretend - a true crime podcast about con artists

Every night, Marie Walsh had the same nightmare.If only she could roll over and tell her husband the truth. But she can’t. Tonight, she’s going to have to suffer alone.   Marie says, "I had a dream where they were chasing me and chasing me." But one night, Marie's nightmare was different.  "I finally got away. I was finally free, and they wouldn't be able to catch me. And I woke up feeling really happy. After all those years of being a nightmare, I'd finally gotten away."  But what was Marie running from? After all, she was just a middle-aged suburban mom who lived an unremarkable life.  "I was a middle-aged mother of three in a suburb of San Diego, California. I was a soccer mom. That's kind of what I did."  Every day revolved around her kids. "It was not that glamorous or exciting."  It was just this very average life. An average life that she’s worked so hard to keep. But one night, her recurring nightmare returned. Except for this time she was wide awake.  Find out the secret that kept Marie running for more than 30 years.  After the episode, make sure to read the book: A Tale Of Two Lives: The Susan LeFevre Fugitive Story  _______________   Lies, lies, and more lies  A few seasons ago, I asked you to submit stories about lies. Either lies that you’ve told or lies that have impacted you personally. And boy, was the response crazy! I ended up making a whole episode dedicated to lies. I want to try it again. Email me a voice memo. Chances are your story could make it on the show.  ------- Story idea?  If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at info@pretendradio.org.  For more episodes like this visit pretendradio.org.  To get early releases and bonus episodes go to pretendradio.org/donate   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1>Every night, Marie Walsh had the same nightmare.If only she could roll over and tell her husband the truth. But she can’t. Tonight, she’s going to have to suffer alone.</h1> Marie says, "I had a dream where they were chasing me and chasing me." But one night, Marie's nightmare was different. "I finally got away. I was finally free, and they wouldn't be able to catch me. And I woke up feeling really happy. After all those years of being a nightmare, I'd finally gotten away." But what was Marie running from? After all, she was just a middle-aged suburban mom who lived an unremarkable life. "I was a middle-aged mother of three in a suburb of San Diego, California. I was a soccer mom. That's kind of what I did." Every day revolved around her kids. "It was not that glamorous or exciting." It was just this very average life. An average life that she’s worked so hard to keep. But one night, her recurring nightmare returned. Except for this time she was wide awake. Find out the secret that kept Marie running for more than 30 years. After the episode, make sure to read the book: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tale-Two-Lives-Marie-Walsh/dp/0615446884" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Tale Of Two Lives: The Susan LeFevre Fugitive Story</a> _______________ <h1> </h1> <h1>Lies, lies, and more lies</h1> A few seasons ago, I asked you to submit stories about lies. Either lies that you’ve told or lies that have impacted you personally. And boy, was the response crazy! I ended up making <a href="http://pretendradio.org/19-the-stranger-lies-deception/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a whole episode dedicated to lies</a>. I want to try it again. Email me a voice memo. Chances are your story could make it on the show. ------- <h1>Story idea? </h1> If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at <a href="mailto:info@pretendradio.org">info@pretendradio.org</a>. For more episodes like this visit <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/eca2bba6-5eac-11e8-b750-a344e2023286/podcasts/d1194664-ec48-11e8-879b-cbb0584e3baa/episodes/fd7eaeb0-4498-11eb-8208-f7b74a594f54/pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org.</a> To get early releases and bonus episodes go to <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org/donate</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S404: The Soccer Mom

Peter Pan syndrome is when someone refuses to grow up.   It’s neither a disease nor a recognized mental disorder—it’s just a state of mind. Today, you're going to meet a man who became a fugitive in order to live in his very own Neverland.  Larry Douglas Jones is not your typical fugitive. He had a wife and three kids. And to be honest, he's not a dangerous man. He became overwhelmed with life and decided to run away.  This is the first in a series of stories about fugitives running from the law. This season, we’ll explore how abandoning your old identity leads to a whole set of complications. How do these criminals assume a new identity? What strategies do they use to avoid getting caught?  _______________   This episode was 100% funded by you.   I was able to travel to Gulfport, MS for this story using funds raised on Patreon. So if you’d like to see me to take the show on the road, consider chipping in a buck or two on our Patreon page. Plus, you’ll get access to early episodes and bonus content. So, thank you so much for the support.  _______________   Lies, lies, and more lies  A few seasons ago, I asked you to submit stories about lies. Either lies that you’ve told or lies that have impacted you personally. And boy, was the response crazy! I ended up making a whole episode dedicated to lies. I want to try it again. Email me a voice memo. Chances are your story could make it on the show.  ------- Story idea?  If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at info@pretendradio.org.  For more episodes like this visit pretendradio.org.  To get early releases and bonus episodes go to pretendradio.org/donate     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1>Peter Pan syndrome is when someone refuses to grow up. </h1> It’s neither a disease nor a recognized mental disorder—it’s just a state of mind. Today, you're going to meet a man who became a fugitive in order to live in his very own Neverland. Larry Douglas Jones is not your typical fugitive. He had a wife and three kids. And to be honest, he's not a dangerous man. He became overwhelmed with life and decided to run away. This is the first in a series of stories about fugitives running from the law. This season, we’ll explore how abandoning your old identity leads to a whole set of complications. How do these criminals assume a new identity? What strategies do they use to avoid getting caught? _______________ This episode was 100% funded by you. I was able to travel to Gulfport, MS for this story using funds raised on <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. So if you’d like to see me to take the show on the road, consider chipping in a buck or two on our <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon page</a>. Plus, you’ll get access to early episodes and bonus content. So, thank you so much for the support. _______________ Lies, lies, and more lies A few seasons ago, I asked you to submit stories about lies. Either lies that you’ve told or lies that have impacted you personally. And boy, was the response crazy! I ended up making <a href="http://pretendradio.org/19-the-stranger-lies-deception/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a whole episode dedicated to lies</a>. I want to try it again. Email me a voice memo. Chances are your story could make it on the show. ------- <h1>Story idea? </h1> If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at <a href="mailto:info@pretendradio.org">info@pretendradio.org</a>. For more episodes like this visit <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/eca2bba6-5eac-11e8-b750-a344e2023286/podcasts/d1194664-ec48-11e8-879b-cbb0584e3baa/episodes/fd7eaeb0-4498-11eb-8208-f7b74a594f54/pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org.</a> To get early releases and bonus episodes go to <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org/donate</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S403: The One Who Got Away

Season 3: The Prophet - Word of Faith Fellowship RevisitedI’m back with a whole new season of Pretend Radio. But this time it’s going to be a little different. Instead of telling you a different story each episode, I decided to do a serialize season where I tell you a single story, one episode at a time. So what is it about? It’s about the first episode I aired on this show—the Word of Faith Fellowship church.Back in season one, I met up with a man who says he escaped the cult. His name is John Cooper. I contacted him and asked "Hey, do you want to meet up? I’m thinking about starting a podcast and would like to tell your story."So, we just met up at a park in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. At this point, I didn’t know what this podcast was all about. All I knew was that he was part of a religious sect. And what he told me that day in that park blew my mind. But in the end, I feel like I didn’t do that story justice. It was one guy’s story. I needed to go out to the other side of the state, where the Word of Faith Fellowship is located, and do a little more digging. So, I got in my car and drove west. After I spending the whole day in Spindale, North Carolina, I thought to myself, there is no way I keep everything I just learned in one episode.If season one was about John cooper, season 3 is all about the town of Spindale.The episode you’re about to listen to is my first 3 episodes rolled into one. And I’m going to stitch them together by playing some ads for some non-profits organizations. And at the end of the episode there’s a preview of the new season.Now many of you have already heard this story, but trust me, even I had to go back and listen to these episodes. Once the season starts, I’m not going to spend a lot setting things up. We’re just going to get right to it.If you’re new to Pretend Radio, well this is a great place to start.Let me tell you, it’s pretty crazy. I got deeper into this story than any other journalist. The BBC has tried and failed. The Associated Press tried and they couldn’t get in. Even A&amp;E is producing a documentary on the WOFF and they didn’t get the access I got. So enjoy this flashback episode and revisit The Prophet from season one. And get ready for the season because it’s coming out very soon.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Season 3: The Prophet - Word of Faith Fellowship RevisitedI’m back with a whole new season of Pretend Radio. But this time it’s going to be a little different. Instead of telling you a different story each episode, I decided to do a serialize season where I tell you a single story, one episode at a time. So what is it about? It’s about the first episode I aired on this show—the Word of Faith Fellowship church.Back in season one, I met up with a man who says he escaped the cult. His name is John Cooper. I contacted him and asked "Hey, do you want to meet up? I’m thinking about starting a podcast and would like to tell your story."So, we just met up at a park in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. At this point, I didn’t know what this podcast was all about. All I knew was that he was part of a religious sect. And what he told me that day in that park blew my mind. But in the end, I feel like I didn’t do that story justice. It was one guy’s story. I needed to go out to the other side of the state, where the Word of Faith Fellowship is located, and do a little more digging. So, I got in my car and drove west. After I spending the whole day in Spindale, North Carolina, I thought to myself, there is no way I keep everything I just learned in one episode.If season one was about John cooper, season 3 is all about the town of Spindale.The episode you’re about to listen to is my first 3 episodes rolled into one. And I’m going to stitch them together by playing some ads for some non-profits organizations. And at the end of the episode there’s a preview of the new season.Now many of you have already heard this story, but trust me, even I had to go back and listen to these episodes. Once the season starts, I’m not going to spend a lot setting things up. We’re just going to get right to it.If you’re new to Pretend Radio, well this is a great place to start.Let me tell you, it’s pretty crazy. I got deeper into this story than any other journalist. The BBC has tried and failed. The Associated Press tried and they couldn’t get in. Even A&amp;E is producing a documentary on the WOFF and they didn’t get the access I got. So enjoy this flashback episode and revisit The Prophet from season one. And get ready for the season because it’s coming out very soon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S301: The Prophet - Word of Faith Fellowship Cult Revisited

A lie is only powerful if you choose to believe it. So why do we fall for it every time? In this episode, we’ll hear four different stories. Each describes a tall tale, so persistent, that it’s hard to imagine someone keeping all the lies straight in their head. Each one of these stories reminds me of the movie The Truman Show. It seems like everyone I spoke with lived in a world carefully created just for them. Now it’s time to ask you. Have you ever been lied to? Or have you ever told a lie in order to do the right thing? I invite you to share your story on Pretend Radio. If selected, your story will be featured as bonus content on our Patreon channel. Patreon is a way that you can support the show. And who knows, your story could be featured on the main show. If you would like to share your story, record your story using your smartphone voice recording app and email your audio to javier@pretendradio.org. Or leave me a voice mail at (919) 867-1871. Please try to keep your story under 10 minutes. Don’t forget to leave me your name and a way to contact you. I can’t wait to listen to your stories. Theme Music composed by Joe Basile from The Chicken Music and Sound Design. Find out more about Joe and The Chicken at www.thechicken.net Additional music by:Podington Bear - BambiPodington Bear - TwosomePodington Bear - BumblePodington Bear - Suppose it is Thank you to Steven Pacheco with the Trace Evidence Podcast and Nicki T with the Strictly Homicide Podcast for partnering with me on this episode. And I’d love to thank Carly Nichols and Andrea Hill for listening and taking the time to talk with me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A lie is only powerful if you choose to believe it. So why do we fall for it every time? In this episode, we’ll hear four different stories. Each describes a tall tale, so persistent, that it’s hard to imagine someone keeping all the lies straight in their head. Each one of these stories reminds me of the movie The Truman Show. It seems like everyone I spoke with lived in a world carefully created just for them. Now it’s time to ask you. Have you ever been lied to? Or have you ever told a lie in order to do the right thing? I invite you to share your story on Pretend Radio. If selected, your story will be featured as bonus content on our Patreon channel. Patreon is a way that you can support the show. And who knows, your story could be featured on the main show. If you would like to share your story, record your story using your smartphone voice recording app and email your audio to javier@pretendradio.org. Or leave me a voice mail at (919) 867-1871. Please try to keep your story under 10 minutes. Don’t forget to leave me your name and a way to contact you. I can’t wait to listen to your stories. Theme Music composed by Joe Basile from The Chicken Music and Sound Design. Find out more about Joe and The Chicken at <a href="http://www.thechicken.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thechicken.net</a> Additional music by:Podington Bear - BambiPodington Bear - TwosomePodington Bear - BumblePodington Bear - Suppose it is Thank you to Steven Pacheco with the <a href="https://www.trace-evidence.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trace Evidence Podcast</a> and Nicki T with the <a href="https://strictlyhomicide.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Strictly Homicide Podcast</a> for partnering with me on this episode. And I’d love to thank Carly Nichols and Andrea Hill for listening and taking the time to talk with me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S208: The Stranger 

Jane Whaley

Who is Jane Whaley?Jane Whaley is the pastor at the Word of Faith Fellowship—a conservative, charismatic Christian church.Those who have left the church describe her as a ruthless cult leader. But, we don't know much about her. Where did she come from? How did she assume power? I spoke with John Huddle, a former Word of Faith Fellowship member, to learn more about Jane Whaley's past.To learn more visit pretendradio.org --Promo--All Crime No Cattle --Music--Thechicken.net  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1>Who is Jane Whaley?</h1><h2>Jane Whaley is the pastor at the Word of Faith Fellowship—a conservative, charismatic Christian church.</h2>Those who have left the church describe her as a ruthless cult leader. But, we don't know much about her. Where did she come from? How did she assume power? I spoke with John Huddle, a former Word of Faith Fellowship member, to learn more about Jane Whaley's past.To learn more visit <a href="http://pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org</a> --Promo--All Crime No Cattle --Music--<a href="http://Thechicken.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Thechicken.net</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S302: The Prophet - Who is cult leader Jane Whaley?

Mary Turner Thomas says she married a bigamist. She claims her husband, William Allen Jordan, was involved with 8 different women and fathered 13 kids. At one point, he had two wives, two fiances and a girlfriend on both sides of the Atlantic. William Allen Jordan and Mary Turner Thomson How in the world did Mary not know about these other relationships? How can one man pull off a con this big? It's easy to dismiss Mary as being naive. However, William Jordan was a skilled con man. Once you listen to how they met, and fell in love, it's easy to understand how he could steal her heart. Little did she know he will eventually steal much more than that. Mary says that William conned her out of £200,000. How did he do it? He led her to believe that he was a contractor for the CIA and terrorist were holding his family for ransom. As unbelievable as this sounds, he crafted evidence to back up his claims. Listen to Mary Turner Thomas describe the tactics he used to con her and learn how he finally got caught. This story was originally reported by my friend Lanie Hobbs at the True Crime Fan Club. I highly recommend you check out their show.You can find Mary’s book titled The Bigamist on Amazon:https://amzn.to/3uI9OkSShe is also on Twitter: http://twitter.com/TheBigamistBook or at http://maryturnerthomson.com/book-inner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mary Turner Thomas says she married a bigamist. She claims her husband, William Allen Jordan, was involved with 8 different women and fathered 13 kids. At one point, he had two wives, two fiances and a girlfriend on both sides of the Atlantic. William Allen Jordan and Mary Turner Thomson How in the world did Mary not know about these other relationships? How can one man pull off a con this big? It's easy to dismiss Mary as being naive. However, William Jordan was a skilled con man. Once you listen to how they met, and fell in love, it's easy to understand how he could steal her heart. Little did she know he will eventually steal much more than that. Mary says that William conned her out of £200,000. How did he do it? He led her to believe that he was a contractor for the CIA and terrorist were holding his family for ransom. As unbelievable as this sounds, he crafted evidence to back up his claims. Listen to Mary Turner Thomas describe the tactics he used to con her and learn how he finally got caught. This story was originally reported by my friend Lanie Hobbs at the True Crime Fan Club. I highly recommend you check out their show.You can find Mary’s book titled The Bigamist on Amazon:<a href="https://amzn.to/3uI9OkS" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3uI9OkS</a> She is also on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/TheBigamistBook" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/TheBigamistBook</a> or at <a href="http://maryturnerthomson.com/book-inner" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://maryturnerthomson.com/book-inner</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S111: The Bigamist

1980s Prostitution in the Streets of DetroitBack in the 1980s, Mark Bando was a Detroit police officer working the streets of Detroit. His assignment was to keep tabs on women forced into prostitution, their pimps, and the sugar daddies who kept them in business. Dawn Spens was one of those women. We follow their interlaced story.Dawn’s sugar daddy was a prominent psychologist named Alan Canty. He would meet her for sex during his lunch break. This relationship went on for two years. Meanwhile, his wife Jan Canty didn’t know what was really going on. This rendezvous didn’t last forever. Hear how Alan Canty’s double life was exposed. Meet the charactersThe Sugar Daddy- Alan CantyThe Sex Worker- Dawn SpensThe Pimp- John “Lucky”Links and sources:If you enjoyed the story, check out Lowell  Lowell Cauffiel’s book titled Masquerade To read Jan Canty’s memoir visit Amazon or www.jancantyphd.comThis is part one of a two-part series. Subscribe to Patreon to listen to part two right now CreditsThis episode was written and produced by Javier LeivaEdited by Molly BrockMusic by Blue Dot Sessions and Podington BearTheme music by Joe Basile and thechicken.net-------Story idea? If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at info@pretendradio.org.For more episodes like this visit pretendradio.org.To get early releases and bonus episodes go to pretendradio.org/donate  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1980s Prostitution in the Streets of DetroitBack in the 1980s, Mark Bando was a Detroit police officer working the streets of Detroit. His assignment was to keep tabs on women forced into prostitution, their pimps, and the sugar daddies who kept them in business. Dawn Spens was one of those women. We follow their interlaced story.Dawn’s sugar daddy was a prominent psychologist named Alan Canty. He would meet her for sex during his lunch break. This relationship went on for two years. Meanwhile, his wife Jan Canty didn’t know what was really going on. This rendezvous didn’t last forever. Hear how Alan Canty’s double life was exposed. Meet the charactersThe Sugar Daddy- Alan CantyThe Sex Worker- Dawn SpensThe Pimp- John “Lucky” Links and sources:If you enjoyed the story, check out <a href="https://amzn.to/3nU3VON" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lowell Lowell Cauffiel’s book titled Masquerade </a> To read Jan Canty’s memoir visit <a href="https://amzn.to/34N2Hgs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.jancantyphd.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.jancantyphd.com</a> This is part one of a two-part series. <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to Patreon to listen to part two right now </a> CreditsThis episode was written and produced by <a href="http://pretendradio.org/contact-us/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Javier Leiva</a>Edited by Molly BrockMusic by Blue Dot Sessions and Podington BearTheme music by Joe Basile and <a href="http://thechicken.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thechicken.net</a> -------<h1>Story idea? </h1>If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at <a href="mailto:info@pretendradio.org">info@pretendradio.org</a>. For more episodes like this visit <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/eca2bba6-5eac-11e8-b750-a344e2023286/podcasts/d1194664-ec48-11e8-879b-cbb0584e3baa/episodes/fd7eaeb0-4498-11eb-8208-f7b74a594f54/pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org.</a> To get early releases and bonus episodes go to <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org/donate</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S501: The Sugar Daddy part 1

Martin McNally is going to hijack this plane and nobody, not even the FBI, is going to stop him. In today’s episode,  Martin McNally recounts his 1972 hijacking of an American Airlines flight heading to Tulsa, Oklahoma. His plan was simple—sneak a submachine gun onboard a 727 jet, demand a half-million dollars in cash, and escape with a parachute. And he almost got away with it.Martin McNally’s story is gripping and will have you at the edge of your seat. He was inspired by the infamous hijacker D.B. Cooper. But unlike D.B. Cooper, we actually know how McNally’s story ends. As you can imagine, his plan didn’t go smoothly. The pilot had to return to St. Louis to get the mailbags full of money. After hours of negotiations with the FBI, there was a crew change and an FBI agent, dressed as crew members, snuck on board. Then, as the plane was preparing for take off,  a drunk passenger smashed his Cadillac into the nose of the plane. By now, it should have been over. But McNally persisted and demanded a new plane. Once up in the air, McNally jumped into the darkness and disappeared with the cash. This story was produced by Chris Knittel with the Burner Phone Podcast and was written by me, Javier Leiva. ---FEATURED PROMO  Oh No! Lit Class Killafornia Dreaming ---MUSIC The Pretend Radio theme song was composed by Joe Basile with thechicken.net Additional music by Blue Dot Session  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1>Martin McNally is going to hijack this plane and nobody, not even the FBI, is going to stop him.</h1> <h2>In today’s episode, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/1972/06/30/archives/502000-hijacking-laid-to-jobless-man-jobless-man-held-in-airline.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Martin McNally</a> recounts his 1972 hijacking of an American Airlines flight heading to Tulsa, Oklahoma. His plan was simple—sneak a submachine gun onboard a 727 jet, demand a half-million dollars in cash, and escape with a parachute. And he almost got away with it.</h2>Martin McNally’s story is gripping and will have you at the edge of your seat. He was inspired by the infamous hijacker D.B. Cooper. But unlike <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D._B._Cooper" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">D.B. Cooper</a>, we actually know how McNally’s story ends. As you can imagine, his plan didn’t go smoothly. The pilot had to return to St. Louis to get the mailbags full of money. After hours of negotiations with the FBI, there was a crew change and an FBI agent, dressed as crew members, snuck on board. Then, as the plane was preparing for take off, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/1973/06/05/archives/driver-who-rammed-an-airliner-is-freed.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> a drunk passenger smashed his Cadillac</a> into the nose of the plane. By now, it should have been over. But McNally persisted and demanded a new plane. Once up in the air, McNally jumped into the darkness and disappeared with the cash. This story was produced by Chris Knittel with the <a href="https://www.burnerphonepodcast.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Burner Phone Podcast</a> and was written by me, Javier Leiva. ---FEATURED PROMO <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/oh-no-lit-class/id1201265597?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Oh No! Lit Class</a> <a href="https://www.orbitaljigsaw.com/podcasts/killafornia-dreaming/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Killafornia Dreaming</a> ---MUSIC The Pretend Radio theme song was composed by Joe Basile with <a href="http://thechicken.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thechicken.net</a> Additional music by Blue Dot Session Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S212: The Hijacker, Part 1 - Martin McNally

As far as I know, I'm the first journalist who has ever interviewed pastor Jane Whaley. Heck, I might be the only member of the media to have attended church service. How was I able to pull this off? The short answer is, I have no idea.In fact, when the executive producer of the upcoming A&amp;E series on Word of Faith Fellowship found out about my exclusive interview, he gave me a call. He asked me, "I just want to know one thing... how did you do it?" I told him, "I just asked nicely?"(UPDATE: A&amp;E pulls the docu-series the night before it was scheduled to air)My first contact with Jane WhaleyThe last people to get an invitation to the Word of Faith Fellowship got the cops called on them. However, that didn't stop me from contacting Jane. I have Jane Whaley's email address and intend to use it. Besides, what's the worst thing that could happen? Get arrested for trespassing?True Crime Podcast Festival | Chicago 2019Also, I am excited to announce that Pretend Radio is going to be attending the first annual True Crime Podcast Festival on July 13, 2019 in Chicago! Trust me, start planning now. It’s worth traveling to. This is your chance to mingle with podcasters you listen to regularly. There will also be live episode recordings as well as panel discussions. In fact, I’m speaking in one of them.Some of the shows registered are All Crime No Cattle, Criminology, Canadian True Crime, Mugshot, Swindled, Sword and Scale, and so many more. You won’t want to miss this.Go to the website TCPF2019.com to find information on tickets and the hotel. Prices do go up the closer we get to the event so you won’t want to wait. When you buy your ticket, make sure you mention Pretend Radio on the ticket registration survey. This is going to be a blast. I can’t wait to meet everyone at the True Crime Podcast Festival! For more information, see the show notes.Many people have been writing me and sharing their stories. If you have a story to share, shoot me an email at info@pretendradio.org or follow me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.Our theme music was composed by Joe Basile with thechicken.net.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As far as I know, I'm the first journalist who has ever interviewed pastor Jane Whaley. Heck, I might be the only member of the media to have attended church service. How was I able to pull this off? The short answer is, I have no idea.In fact, when the executive producer of the upcoming A&amp;E series on Word of Faith Fellowship found out about my exclusive interview, he gave me a call. He asked me, "I just want to know one thing... how did you do it?" I told him, "I just asked nicely?"(UPDATE: <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/arts-entertainment/2018/11/28/ae-postpones-docuseries-devil-next-door-about-alleged-abuse-north-carolina-church/?noredirect=on&amp;utm_term=.9e6db6f8b6fe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A&amp;E pulls the docu-series the night before it was scheduled to air</a>) My first contact with Jane WhaleyThe last people to get an invitation to the Word of Faith Fellowship got the cops called on them. However, that didn't stop me from contacting Jane. I have Jane Whaley's email address and intend to use it. Besides, what's the worst thing that could happen? Get arrested for trespassing? True Crime Podcast Festival | Chicago 2019Also, I am excited to announce that Pretend Radio is going to be attending the first annual <a href="https://tcpf2019.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">True Crime Podcast Festival</a> on July 13, 2019 in Chicago! Trust me, start planning now. It’s worth traveling to. This is your chance to mingle with podcasters you listen to regularly. There will also be live episode recordings as well as panel discussions. In fact, I’m speaking in one of them.Some of the shows registered are All Crime No Cattle, Criminology, Canadian True Crime, Mugshot, Swindled, Sword and Scale, <a href="https://tcpf2019.com/podcasts/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">and so many more</a>. You won’t want to miss this.Go to the website <a href="http://TCPF2019.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TCPF2019.com</a> to find information on tickets and the hotel. Prices do go up the closer we get to the event so you won’t want to wait. When you buy your ticket, make sure you mention Pretend Radio on the ticket registration survey. This is going to be a blast. I can’t wait to meet everyone at the True Crime Podcast Festival! For more information, see the show notes.Many people have been writing me and sharing their stories. If you have a story to share, shoot me an email at <a href="mailto:info@pretendradio.org">info@pretendradio.org</a> or follow me on <a href="https://twitter.com/pretend_radio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PretendRadioPodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pretend_radio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.Our theme music was composed by Joe Basile with <a href="http://thechicken.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thechicken.net</a>. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S306: The Prophet - Meet Cult Leader Jane Whaley Part 1

The most bizarre cyberstalking story you’ll ever hearSusan Fensten is a victim of cyberstalking. Distant family members and ex-cons bombarded her with harassing emails. She felt cornered and there was nothing she could do about it.Rapists and Stalkers and cannibals, oh my.Two ex-cons convicted of raping a woman were sending her threatening emails. They even invited her to the Fall Slaughter an event hosted by a cannibalistic cult from upstate New York. The plan was to eat her alive.It was all a hoaxNone of this was real. All these threatening messages were fake. And worst of all, the people Susan thought she was interacting with weren’t real either. Today’s story focuses on the search for this cyberstalker. Who was targeting Susan? And why did they want her to suffer?Subscribe to PRETEND on your favorite podcast app:  Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, or Google Play.Check out Susan Fensten’s Memoir based on this story titled, “You have a very soft voice, Susan.”Today’s show was written by Javier Leiva and edited by Molly Brock. Our theme music was written and composed by Joe Basile with TheChicken.net. Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions and Podington Bear. Bonus episodes:Susan Fensten shares a story that didn't make it in her book.The full interview with FBI Special Agent Brandon WallerSupport for this episode is brought to you by HempFusionUse promo code PRETEND for 20% off of your first order and free shipping at hempfusion.com. Get HempFusion shipped anywhere in the US. -------Story idea? If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at info@pretendradio.org.For more episodes like this visit pretendradio.org.To get early releases and bonus episodes go to pretendradio.org/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1>The most bizarre cyberstalking story you’ll ever hear</h1>Susan Fensten is a victim of cyberstalking. Distant family members and ex-cons bombarded her with harassing emails. She felt cornered and there was nothing she could do about it. <h1>Rapists and Stalkers and cannibals, oh my.</h1>Two ex-cons convicted of raping a woman were sending her threatening emails. They even invited her to the Fall Slaughter an event hosted by a cannibalistic cult from upstate New York. The plan was to eat her alive. <h1>It was all a hoax</h1>None of this was real. All these threatening messages were fake. And worst of all, the people Susan thought she was interacting with weren’t real either. Today’s story focuses on the search for this cyberstalker. Who was targeting Susan? And why did they want her to suffer? Subscribe to PRETEND on your favorite podcast app: <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/pretend-radio/id1245307962?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Apple Podcast</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2vaCjR7UvlN9aTIzW6kNCo?si=nlQxtYtoRLmTJB9xMofT_Q" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/pretend-radio-2/pretend-radio-3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Stitcher</a>, or <a href="https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&amp;isi=691797987&amp;ius=googleplaymusic&amp;apn=com.google.android.music&amp;link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ipl4ftte2uk7hmtzzhgri26zivi?t%3DPretend_Radio%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Google Play</a>. Check out Susan Fensten’s Memoir based on this story titled, “<a href="https://amzn.to/3huIDET" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You have a very soft voice, Susan</a>.” Today’s show was written by Javier Leiva and edited by Molly Brock. Our theme music was written and composed by Joe Basile with <a href="http://thechicken.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TheChicken.net</a>. Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions and Podington Bear.  <h1>Bonus episodes:</h1> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/posts/30350941" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Susan Fensten shares a story that didn't make it in her book.</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/posts/30351393" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The full interview with FBI Special Agent Brandon Waller</a> Support for this episode is brought to you by HempFusion Use promo code PRETEND for 20% off of your first order and free shipping at <a href="http://hempfusion.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hempfusion.com</a>. Get HempFusion shipped anywhere in the US.  -------<h1>Story idea? </h1>If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at <a href="mailto:info@pretendradio.org">info@pretendradio.org</a>. For more episodes like this visit <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/eca2bba6-5eac-11e8-b750-a344e2023286/podcasts/d1194664-ec48-11e8-879b-cbb0584e3baa/episodes/fd7eaeb0-4498-11eb-8208-f7b74a594f54/pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org.</a> To get early releases and bonus episodes go to <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org/donate</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S504: The Cousins part 2

Alan Canty spent most of his lunch breaks rendezvousing with an 18-year-old sex worker named Dawn Spens in the seedy streets of downtown Detroit. His wife Jan Canty had no idea he was living a double-life.A real-life Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde sagaAlan Canty was a prominent psychologist but to Dawn, and her pimp John “Lucky” Fry, he was known as Dr. Alan Miller. He developed an alter ego in order to protect his two worlds from colliding. However, secrets can’t last forever. One day, Alan Canty’s love affair came to a tragic end. Links and sources:If you enjoyed the story, check out Lowell  Lowell Cauffiel’s book titled Masquerade To read Jan Canty’s memoir visit Amazon or www.jancantyphd.comCreditsToday’s episode was edited by Bear Beat Productions and additional editing by Molly BrockOur Theme is Music by Joe Basie with theChicken.netAnd additional music by Blue Dot Sessions-------Story idea? If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at info@pretendradio.org.For more episodes like this visit pretendradio.org.To get early releases and bonus episodes go to pretendradio.org/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1>Alan Canty spent most of his lunch breaks rendezvousing with an 18-year-old sex worker named Dawn Spens in the seedy streets of downtown Detroit. His wife Jan Canty had no idea he was living a double-life.</h1> <h1>A real-life Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde saga</h1> Alan Canty was a prominent psychologist but to Dawn, and her pimp John “Lucky” Fry, he was known as Dr. Alan Miller. He developed an alter ego in order to protect his two worlds from colliding. However, secrets can’t last forever. One day, Alan Canty’s love affair came to a tragic end. Links and sources:If you enjoyed the story, check out <a href="https://amzn.to/3nU3VON" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lowell Lowell Cauffiel’s book titled Masquerade </a> To read Jan Canty’s memoir visit <a href="https://amzn.to/34N2Hgs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.jancantyphd.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.jancantyphd.com</a> CreditsToday’s episode was edited by Bear Beat Productions and additional editing by Molly Brock Our Theme is Music by Joe Basie with <a href="http://theChicken.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">theChicken.net</a> And additional music by Blue Dot Sessions -------<h1>Story idea? </h1>If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at <a href="mailto:info@pretendradio.org">info@pretendradio.org</a>. For more episodes like this visit <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/eca2bba6-5eac-11e8-b750-a344e2023286/podcasts/d1194664-ec48-11e8-879b-cbb0584e3baa/episodes/fd7eaeb0-4498-11eb-8208-f7b74a594f54/pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org.</a> To get early releases and bonus episodes go to <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org/donate</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S502: The Sugar Daddy part 2 

Jack Saltarelli is a bounty hunter. His job is to hunt down fugitives. Any given day, he’s going after rapist, murderers, and people who skip court. Most bounty hunters carry lethal weapons, but not Jack. He goes door-to-door carrying a stun gun and a training revolver that fires rubber bullets. You may be asking yourself what’s the difference between a cop and a bounty hunter? First, bounty hunters have more authority than local police. Cops have jurisdictions, and they need warrants in order to enter your home. Bounty hunters, on the other hand, can hunt you down anywhere, and they can even barge into your homes if they have to.How can they get away with this? Simple. Let’s say you get arrested and sign a bail bond contract to get out of jail. The moment you sign that contract, you’re waiving your constitutional rights.I met up with Jack at his bail bonds office in Gulfport, Mississippi. Let’s just say that Jack isn’t your ordinary bounty hunter. His story is much more complicated than that. Find out the secret Jack Saltarelli has been hiding for more than 30 years.Part 2 is available right now for my Patreon supporters.Retired FBI Agent Jerri WilliamsYou know, people always ask me, “Javier, where do you find these stories?” The answer is all sorts of places. But not this one. I learned about this story from my podcast from my friend Jerri Williams. Jerri is a retired FBI agent who has a podcast called FBI Retired Casefile Review. You may remember Jerri from the episode with the telemarketing con artist named Carl. If you haven’t check out FBI Retired Casefile Review, do yourself a favor and subscribe. Jerri is on every week featuring real former FBI agents describing their case. She is the real deal. You can listen to Jerri's interview with Jack Saltarelli and retired FBI agent Judy Tyler here.Also, you should check out her new book, it’s called FBI Myths and Misconceptions: A Manual for Armchair Detectives. Jerri debunks clichés and misconceptions about the FBI in books, TV, and movies.And thank you to you for helping me fund this story. If it weren’t for my Patreon supporters, I couldn’t be able to support the flight down to Gulf Port, MS, or the rental car and hotel. Seriously, this story was great because I was able to be there with Jack. If you want to hear more stories like this, please consider donating one dollar to the show. It really goes a long way.-------Story idea? If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at info@pretendradio.org.For more episodes like this visit pretendradio.org.To get early releases and bonus episodes go to pretendradio.org/donateCreditsPretend is produced by Javier LeivaTheme music by The ChickenAdditional music by Blue Dot SessionsPromos this week for Beyond the Obituary and Spy Stories Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1>Jack Saltarelli is a bounty hunter. His job is to hunt down fugitives. Any given day, he’s going after rapist, murderers, and people who skip court. Most bounty hunters carry lethal weapons, but not Jack. He goes door-to-door carrying a stun gun and a training revolver that fires rubber bullets. </h1> You may be asking yourself what’s the difference between a cop and a bounty hunter? First, bounty hunters have more authority than local police. Cops have jurisdictions, and they need warrants in order to enter your home. Bounty hunters, on the other hand, can hunt you down anywhere, and they can even barge into your homes if they have to. How can they get away with this? Simple. Let’s say you get arrested and sign a bail bond contract to get out of jail. The moment you sign that contract, you’re waiving your constitutional rights. I met up with Jack at his bail bonds office in Gulfport, Mississippi. Let’s just say that Jack isn’t your ordinary bounty hunter. His story is much more complicated than that. Find out the secret Jack Saltarelli has been hiding for more than 30 years. <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Part 2 is available right now for my Patreon supporters</a>. Retired FBI Agent Jerri Williams You know, people always ask me, “Javier, where do you find these stories?” The answer is all sorts of places. But not this one. I learned about this story from my podcast from my friend Jerri Williams. Jerri is a retired FBI agent who has a podcast called <a href="https://jerriwilliams.com/podcast-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FBI Retired Casefile Review</a>. You may remember Jerri from the episode with the <a href="http://pretendradio.org/the-taker-fbi-con-artist/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">telemarketing con artist named Carl</a>. If you haven’t check out FBI Retired Casefile Review, do yourself a favor and subscribe. Jerri is on every week featuring real former FBI agents describing their case. She is the real deal. You can listen to Jerri's interview with Jack Saltarelli and retired FBI agent Judy Tyler <a href="https://jerriwilliams.com/episode-147-judy-tyler-and-jack-saltarelli-meth-lab-fugitive/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. Also, you should check out her new book, it’s called <a href="https://jerriwilliams.com/books/fbi-myths-and-misconceptions-a-manual-for-armchair-detectives/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FBI Myths and Misconceptions: A Manual for Armchair Detectives</a>. Jerri debunks clichés and misconceptions about the FBI in books, TV, and movies. And thank you to you for helping me fund this story. If it weren’t for my Patreon supporters, I couldn’t be able to support the flight down to Gulf Port, MS, or the rental car and hotel. Seriously, this story was great because I was able to be there with Jack. If you want to hear more stories like this, please consider donating one dollar to the show. It really goes a long way. -------<h1>Story idea? </h1>If you have a story to share, email Javier a voice memo or short written description at <a href="mailto:info@pretendradio.org">info@pretendradio.org</a>. For more episodes like this visit <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/eca2bba6-5eac-11e8-b750-a344e2023286/podcasts/d1194664-ec48-11e8-879b-cbb0584e3baa/episodes/fd7eaeb0-4498-11eb-8208-f7b74a594f54/pretendradio.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org.</a> To get early releases and bonus episodes go to <a href="http://pretendradio.org/donate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pretendradio.org/donate</a> Credits Pretend is produced by Javier Leiva Theme music by <a href="http://thechicken.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Chicken</a> Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions Promos this week for <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-obituary/id1454700198" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Beyond the Obituary</a> and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spy-stories/id1445615918" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spy Stories Podcast</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S405: The Bounty Hunter Part 1

Previously on Pretend Radio, I came face-to-face with pastor Jane Whaley of the Word of Faith Fellowship. When I arrived, we met in her office for a few minutes before the church service began. I was surprised by everyone's friendliness. Suddenly, the music started playing and we knew it was time to head into the main sanctuary. Jane Whaley held my hand as we walked down a long hallway towards the service. As we inched closer to the sanctuary, the music got louder and louder—it was ear drum busting loud. Jane and I walked in like rock stars. Her attorney escorted me to the second row behind Jane and her husband Sam Whaley.Word of Faith Fellowship sanctuary in Spindale, North CarolinaWas the church service real or just a big show?The service started around 9:30am and ended around 12:30pm. It was a musical event filled with praise and worship. Old women were jumping up and down in their high heels, old men were singing as loud as they could, and the children appeared to be happy. Former members say that this is exactly what Jane Whaley wanted me to see. According to them, this service was tailored specifically for me. Bonus episode: Why did Paul McCartney's drummer join a cult? Joe English played drums with Paul McCartney and Wings. Today, he's a devoted member at the Word of Faith Fellowship church in Spindale, North Carolina. I met Joe English during my visit. Hear how Jane Whaley saved him from a life of drugs and rock n' roll. Listen to this exclusive Patreon episode.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<a href="http://pretendradio.org/s306-prophet-meet-jane-whaley-part-1/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Previously on Pretend Radio</a>, I came face-to-face with pastor Jane Whaley of the Word of Faith Fellowship. When I arrived, we met in her office for a few minutes before the church service began. I was surprised by everyone's friendliness. Suddenly, the music started playing and we knew it was time to head into the main sanctuary. Jane Whaley held my hand as we walked down a long hallway towards the service. As we inched closer to the sanctuary, the music got louder and louder—it was ear drum busting loud. Jane and I walked in like rock stars. Her attorney escorted me to the second row behind Jane and her husband Sam Whaley.Word of Faith Fellowship sanctuary in Spindale, North Carolina<h2>Was the church service real or just a big show?</h2>The service started around 9:30am and ended around 12:30pm. It was a musical event filled with praise and worship. Old women were jumping up and down in their high heels, old men were singing as loud as they could, and the children appeared to be happy. Former members say that this is exactly what Jane Whaley wanted me to see. According to them, this service was tailored specifically for me. <h2>Bonus episode: Why did Paul McCartney's drummer join a cult?</h2> Joe English played drums with Paul McCartney and Wings. Today, he's a devoted member at the Word of Faith Fellowship church in Spindale, North Carolina. I met Joe English during my visit. Hear how Jane Whaley saved him from a life of drugs and rock n' roll.<a href="https://www.patreon.com/posts/why-did-paul-22548006?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=postshare" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Listen to this exclusive Patreon episode</a>. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S307: The Prophet - Meet Jane Whaley Part 2

How does a good cop turn bad? For Ruben Palomares, a former corrupt LAPD Rampart division officer, the process was slow. He went from receiving LAPD’s highest honor to becoming one of the most corrupt cops in US history.Officer Palomares’ story begins with his first undercover assignment. In the late 1980s there was this show called 21 Jump Street. Johnny Depp starred in it. It was about undercover cops, who pretended to be students, in order to bust drug dealers in schools.But did you know that back in the 1994, the Los Angeles police department juvenile narcotics unit actually recruited young officers to infiltrate classrooms in order to investigate drug dealers? They couldn’t just get any cop to fill this undercover role. They needed a fresh face who could blend in with the students. So, they approached officer Ruben Palomares.In 1995, Ruben Palomares got transferred to LAPD’s Rampart Division where he continued to work undercover cases. He was specifically assigned to the anti-gang unit called CRASH. CRASH is an acronym for the Community Resources Against Street Hoodlums. This is when Ruben’s fate will be decided.-----BURNER PHONE PODCAST-----You can find Burner Phone Podcast on Apple Podcast and Twitter.-----MUSIC-----Theme Music composed by Joe Basile from The Chicken Music and Sound Design. Find out more about Joe and The Chicken at www.thechicken.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How does a good cop turn bad? For Ruben Palomares, a former corrupt LAPD Rampart division officer, the process was slow. He went from receiving LAPD’s highest honor to becoming one of the most corrupt cops in US history.Officer Palomares’ story begins with his first undercover assignment. In the late 1980s there was this show called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/21_Jump_Street" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">21 Jump Street</a>. Johnny Depp starred in it. It was about undercover cops, who pretended to be students, in order to bust drug dealers in schools.But did you know that back in the 1994, the Los Angeles police department juvenile narcotics unit actually recruited young officers to infiltrate classrooms in order to investigate drug dealers? They couldn’t just get any cop to fill this undercover role. They needed a fresh face who could blend in with the students. So, they approached officer Ruben Palomares.In 1995, Ruben Palomares got transferred to LAPD’s Rampart Division where he continued to work undercover cases. He was specifically assigned to the anti-gang unit called CRASH. CRASH is an acronym for the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Community_Resources_Against_Street_Hoodlums" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Community Resources Against Street Hoodlums</a>. This is when Ruben’s fate will be decided.-----BURNER PHONE PODCAST-----You can find Burner Phone Podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/burner-phone-podcast/id1324740400?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcast</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/BurnerPpodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.-----MUSIC-----Theme Music composed by Joe Basile from The Chicken Music and Sound Design. Find out more about Joe and The Chicken at <a href="http://www.thechicken.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thechicken.net</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S209: The Good Cop, Bad Cop

On April 7th, 2018, more than a dozen former Word of Faith Fellowship members reunited at the Spindale House in Rutherford County, North Carolina.It was an opportunity for former members to answer lingering questions for the citizens in the community. But in reality, it was probably an event designed to make good television for the documentary crew filming the whole thing. When I walked into the room, I expected a small gathering with a few chairs. Instead, I counted 6 professional video cameras and crew to match it. It was a huge production. I soon learned that today’s community event was part of an upcoming A&amp;E documentary series on the Word of Faith Fellowship. Each former member in the panel sat behind a microphone provided by the A&amp;E crew. About 80 to 100 people were in attendance—including current members of the Word of Faith Fellowship. The room was tense.John Cooper, former Word of Faith Fellowship Former Members speaks about his experience with the Department of Social Services in Rutherford, County.Survivors speak out against Pastor Jane WhaleyThis episode was especially hard to write because there were so many stories to tell. But there was one story that stood out more than the others. Former Word of Faith Fellowship member Jamey Anderson delivered an impassioned speech about leaving the church. He lamented about being cut off from his family and missing his own grandfather’s funeral. In the audience sat his mother with an emotionless expression on her face. You see, Jamey’s mother is still a member at the church and has cut all communication with her son. Jamey called her out and said, “I’m very happy to see that whatever I've done has motivated her to show up today. So it's at least good to see her.”Jamey used his time behind the microphone to respond to his mother’s 30 minute YouTube video. In the video, his mother Patti, his grandmother Dot, and his step-sister Allison describe why they think Jamey’s a liar and justify why they have disowned him.---SUBSCRIBE---Apple PodcastsGoogle Play Stitcher Spotify---PROMO---Let's Talk About SectsKillafornia Dreaming---MUSIC---Thechicken.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

<h1>On April 7th, 2018, more than a dozen former Word of Faith Fellowship members reunited at the Spindale House in Rutherford County, North Carolina.</h1>It was an opportunity for former members to answer lingering questions for the citizens in the community. But in reality, it was probably an event designed to make good television for the documentary crew filming the whole thing. When I walked into the room, I expected a small gathering with a few chairs. Instead, I counted 6 professional video cameras and crew to match it. It was a huge production. I soon learned that today’s community event was part of an upcoming A&amp;E documentary series on the Word of Faith Fellowship. Each former member in the panel sat behind a microphone provided by the A&amp;E crew. About 80 to 100 people were in attendance—including current members of the Word of Faith Fellowship. The room was tense. John Cooper, former Word of Faith Fellowship Former Members speaks about his experience with the Department of Social Services in Rutherford, County. Survivors speak out against Pastor Jane Whaley This episode was especially hard to write because there were so many stories to tell. But there was one story that stood out more than the others. Former Word of Faith Fellowship member Jamey Anderson delivered an impassioned speech about leaving the church. He lamented about being cut off from his family and missing his own grandfather’s funeral. In the audience sat his mother with an emotionless expression on her face. You see, Jamey’s mother is still a member at the church and has cut all communication with her son. Jamey called her out and said, “I’m very happy to see that whatever I've done has motivated her to show up today. So it's at least good to see her.” Jamey used his time behind the microphone to respond to his mother’s 30 minute YouTube video. In the video, his mother Patti, his grandmother Dot, and his step-sister Allison describe why they think Jamey’s a liar and justify why they have disowned him. ---SUBSCRIBE--- <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/pretend-radio/id1245307962?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a> <a href="https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&amp;isi=691797987&amp;ius=googleplaymusic&amp;apn=com.google.android.music&amp;link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ipl4ftte2uk7hmtzzhgri26zivi?t%3DPretend_Radio%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Google Play</a> <a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/pretend-radio-2/pretend-radio-3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Stitcher</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2vaCjR7UvlN9aTIzW6kNCo?si=i3qpcKBiQrGxTGaKWP1fTQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Spotify</a> ---PROMO--- <a href="https://www.ltaspod.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Let's Talk About Sects</a> <a href="https://www.orbitaljigsaw.com/podcasts/killafornia-dreaming/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Killafornia Dreaming</a> ---MUSIC--- <a href="http://thechicken.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Thechicken.net</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

S303: The Prophet - Former Cult Members Speak Out

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The best episodes for anyone looking to learn more about topics such as happiness, fulfillment, depression and psychology/mental health in general. With interviews with industry experts, personal stories of individuals, this topic has lessons applicable to everyone. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!