The Sham vol.1This week, I turn the mic over to you. Two listeners share stories about their run-in with a con artist.Our first story is from a long-time listener named Paul Schiffbauer Jr. He tells us about the time he learned the truth about the family business.Our second story is about a listener whose con artist husband destroyed her life.Links from the episode:Amusement Only by Paul Schiffbauer Sr.https://amzn.to/3uxsbtoDo you have a story to share?Leave me a voicemail 919-444-2800or email me at javier@pretendradio.orgTo get early releases and bonus episodes go to pretendradio.org/donateToday's episode was written and edited by Javier Leiva Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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PRETEND is an investigative true crime podcast about real people who lie for a living — con artists, scammers, and the victims caught in their web.
Hosted by journalist Javier Leiva, PRETEND exposes the human psychology behind deception and fraud. Each episode follows a real case of manipulation — from financial scams and Ponzi schemes to digital hoaxes and emotional cons.
PRETEND explains how and why deception works without shaming victims, combining ethical journalism with cinematic storytelling.
Featured in lists of the best podcasts about con artists and scams, PRETEND investigates crimes of persuasion, trust, and betrayal. New episodes drop regularly with stor...