PRETEND

Creative Babble

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. read less

Our Editor's Take

Pretend- a true crime podcast about con artists investigates people living a lie. The show's documentary style offers straightforward reporting, careful analysis, and captivating storytelling. Host Javier Leiva follows each case, risking his safety along the way.

Javier, who also produces the podcast, has worked in TV and marketing. As an investigative podcaster, Javier reported from inside a cult and exposed a woman for selling bleach to cure autism. These are only two of the successes that he shares here.

The complex tales of the most elusive con artists often need more than an hour to tell. Pretend offers a series on the most notorious of these figures. "The Real Catch Me If You Can Series" uncovers the life story of Frank Abagnale, a famous American con man. Did he commit all the crimes he recounted in his autobiography? According to Javier, 90% of his story is false. The host uses facts to disprove each of Frank's falsehoods. Can he "catch a conman in a lie"?

Another series, "The Stalker," discusses a cyber stalker who terrorizes a couple. The police can't find the criminal. They suspect the wife may have a mental disorder and could be the stalker herself. Is this a case of Munchausen by proxy? The thirteen podcast episodes detailing the case reveal chilling reports of child abuse and human failing.

The "Word of Faith Fellowship" series on the podcast tells another kind of story. It examines con woman and "cult" leader Jane Whaley and her husband, Sam. In 1979, they started their new church in North Carolina. Congregants adored them and felt loved. As the years passed, things started to change. Jane and Sam began to control their lives. They'd take followers' children away to live with ministers. There was physical and emotional abuse. Did Sam and Jane get involved in human trafficking? How did members escape their influence? Why does the church continue today?

Pretend- a true crime podcast about con artists may surprise and terrify listeners. The events and lives it reveals are enthralling. Javier provides answers when he can. Listeners can hear new episodes each week.

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PRETEND Podcast Trailer

PRETEND Podcast Trailer

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

Season 18

TRAILER: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey

TRAILER: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey

LaDonna Humphrey, a respected true crime author and podcaster, has built a strong reputation through her detailed investigations. However, beneath her acclaimed public image lies a troubling undercurrent of allegations and dark secrets. As former associates, friends, and family come forward with disturbing claims. These people have never spoken out... until now. The question arises: Who's really afraid of LaDonna Humphrey? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1801: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 1

1801: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 1

LaDonna Humphrey. Remember that name because she is central to this story. I've tried to sum up this tale quickly, but every time I attempt an elevator pitch, I fail. When friends ask me what this new series is about, I'm at a loss for words. It's impossible to explain in just a few minutes. I'm about to retell the story the way I learned it: completely out of order. By the end, you'll need a suspect board like the ones in the movies. I've conducted over 20 interviews and counting, and you're going to hear some far-fetched allegations from many different people—strangers who share one common thread: they've all crossed paths with LaDonna Humphrey. There's a lot of he said, she said in this story, and I'll do my best to prove or disprove each claim. This series is going to be a long one, unfolding in real-time as you listen. By the end, I hope I've done enough for you to make up your own mind and understand why so many people are afraid of LaDonna Humphrey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1802: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 2

1802: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 2

In this episode, we explore the troubling allegations against LaDonna Humphrey surrounding the Melissa Witt case. Crime victim advocate Patti Rush shares her story, claiming that Humphrey, once seen as an ally, was actually behind years of harassment and deceit. From stolen evidence to questionable motives, we peel back the layers on a complicated figure. Patti Rush, a dedicated crime victim advocate, shares her experiences and evidence, suggesting that Humphrey, who was once seen as a supportive ally, may have been orchestrating years of harassment and deceit. We'll discuss stolen evidence, questionable motives, and the broader implications for the true crime community. Highlights: [00:01:00] Alicia Lockhart's story of being tormented by "Fetish Master" and the shocking discovery that it might have been LaDonna Humphrey. [00:04:00] Introduction of Patti Rush, her work with REVAMP, and her connection to the Melissa Witt case. [00:08:00] Patti’s account of LaDonna's unusual access to the Melissa Witt case files and evidence. [00:13:00] The story of the mishandling evidence and crime scene video posted online. [00:16:00] Details of the harassment Patti faced after reporting the video to the police. [00:20:00] Allegations of LaDonna’s desire for fame and how it influenced her actions. [00:26:00] Discussion of Charles Ray Vines, a possible suspect in the Melissa Witt case, and why LaDonna ruled him out. [00:31:00] Insights into LaDonna’s new suspect and ongoing investigations. Call to Action: The story is far from over. Don’t miss out on the next part of this series. Listen to part three now on Patreon or PRETEND+ on Apple Podcast. Links: Patreon PRETEND+ on Apple Podcast Follow Us: Twitter: @pretendpod Instagram: @pretendpodcast Facebook: Pretend Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1803: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 3

1803: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 3

In part 3 of Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey, we explore the intense battle between Anthony Christopher and LaDonna. Anthony, LaDonna's former boss, shares his story of harassment, alleging LaDonna's relentless efforts to destroy his life and career. From sending spoof emails to unauthorized background checks, LaDonna's actions led to a legal showdown that landed her in jail for destroying evidence and contempt of court and awarded Anthony a multimillion-dollar judgment. Highlights: [00:00:00] Anthony Christopher introduces his experience of feeling isolated as LaDonna's victim and discovering other victims. [00:02:00] Patti Rush speaks about finding empowerment after realizing she wasn't alone in being deceived by LaDonna. [00:03:00] Anthony details the start of his professional relationship with LaDonna and her swift dismissal from Absolute Pediatrics. [00:07:00] Nae Heintz discusses LaDonna's unauthorized background checks on colleagues. [00:15:00] Anthony recounts the beginning of the harassment and the steps he took to address it, including filing a lawsuit. [00:25:00] LaDonna admits to forwarding intimidating text messages under police questioning. [00:30:00] The judge finds LaDonna in contempt of court for evidence spoliation and orders her to serve jail time. [00:32:00] Anthony's attorney uncovers key phone records that contradict LaDonna's claims about her phone being stolen. [00:36:00] LaDonna's damaging actions lead to a $3.5 million judgment in Anthony's favor. [00:38:00] The broader impact of LaDonna's actions on other victims and the ongoing legal repercussions. Part 4 is in the works. Please be patient as my team and I work through these next few episodes. Follow Us: Twitter: @pretendpod Instagram: @pretendpodcast Facebook: Pretend Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1804: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 4

1804: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 4

Old Flames Reignited: The Mysterious Return of LaDonna Humphrey in Allen Arson Case LaDonna Humphrey, with a history marked by harassment allegations, emerges from the shadows 13 years later to entangle herself in the arson investigation of her former boss and preacher, Jon Allen. As the flames of the past reignite, investigators uncover a convoluted story of manipulation, embezzlement, and vindictiveness. Why has LaDonna returned after all these years to discredit the Allens, and what does this mean for the longstanding accusations against her? This episode revisits one of her earliest cases of alleged deceit and retribution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1805: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 5

1805: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 5

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

1806: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 6

1806: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 6

STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING! The LaDonna Humphrey interview episodes are in. In this first part of my exclusive interview with LaDonna Humphrey, we dive deep into the accusations and controversies surrounding her. I confront LaDonna with the tough questions to unravel the intricate details of her story. We also hear from her supporters. Don't miss out on Part 2 of this interview, available now on Patreon and Pretend+ on Apple Podcasts. Episode Highlights: -LaDonna's surprising reaction to my interview request - Confronting LaDonna about accusations related to Melissa Witt's case files and the River Valley Killer. - Hearing from LaDonna's supporters and their perspectives on the situation. - Discussing LaDonna's admissions about sending spoof messages and other allegations. - A deep dive into LaDonna's legal battles and contempt charges. - Addressing the evidence and LaDonna's strategy against the accusations. Written and produced by: Javier Leiva Producer: Alison Byrne Editor: Puneeth Shenoy with the Podcast Pundits Theme Music by: Joe Basile with The Chicken (thechicken.net) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1807: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 7

1807: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 7

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1808: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 8

1808: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 8

To truly understand LaDonna Humphrey, we need to delve into her childhood. In an exclusive interview, a family member describes the years of harassing messages and relentless vendettas that have torn their family apart. This episode sheds light on the deep-rooted conflicts that have shaped LaDonna's tumultuous life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1809: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 9

1809: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 9

Content Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault. Today, we're going to talk about the enigma that is LaDonna Humphrey. Like the fact that she was logged in under the same death fetish account, harassing her co-host, yet she denies creating the account. We'll also try to untangle how LaDonna went from attacking the death fetishers to befriending them. Or perhaps her plan to pin Missy Witt's murder on Daniel Watson despite having zero evidence. Credits: Written and produced by Javier Leiva. Produced by Alison Byrne. Edited by Puneeth Shenoy. Theme music by Joel Basile with thechicken.net. Referenced in this episode: Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/LadonnaHumphreyTalk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1810: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 10

1810: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 10

Every charity organization LaDonna Humphrey has led seems to collapse under the weight of controversy and financial mismanagement. Today, we scrutinize LaDonna Humphrey's non-profit world, focusing on her troubled history with charities. Our investigation reveals a pattern of failed ventures, harassment accusations, and questionable financial practices. ______ I'd like to thank Jayson Blair with the Silver Linings Podcast for allowing me to use clips from his interview with LaDonna Humphrey. Listen the Silver Linings Podcast: https://linktr.ee/silverliningshandbookpodcast Also, referenced in this episode is the LaDonna Humphrey Talks Sub Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/LadonnaHumphreyTalk/ NEW EPISODES are available now: Part 11 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/whos-afraid-of-108675318 PRETEND+ on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pretend/id1245307962?i=1000663349553 Part 12 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/whos-afraid-of-108813124 PRETEND+ on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pretend/id1245307962?i=1000664222141 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1811: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 11

1811: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 11

Every charity organization LaDonna Humphrey has led seems to collapse under the weight of controversy and financial mismanagement. Today, we're closely examining Oasis of Northwest Arkansas, a sober living facility under LaDonna's direction. Our investigation reveals alarming stories of harassment, financial mismanagement, and overcrowded, unsafe living conditions. A former resident of Oasis shares her harrowing experience living at the facility. She recounts how donations intended for her baby shower were allegedly kept by LaDonna, leaving her without the promised support. Residents describe living in cramped conditions, with up to 15 women and children in a house meant for nine. Basic amenities like smoke detectors, working washers, and air conditioning are often missing or broken. We'll also examine the nonprofit's questionable accounting practices. Oasis's financial records show suspicious entries, such as LaDonna working 65 hours per week for only $15,600 annually and unexplained professional fees amounting to $58,000. LaDonna is accused of using intimidation tactics, such as threatening to kick out residents over minor infractions and enforcing arbitrary fines for damages— creating a culture of fear and control. Call to Action: If you're as concerned as we are about the allegations against Oasis of Northwest Arkansas, we urge you to take action. Contact the Arkansas Attorney General's Office at tabitha.davis@arkansasag.gov or call 501-682-1306. You can also raise awareness by posting on social media with the hashtag #justiceforoasis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1813: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 13

1813: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 13

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BONUS: A Swing and a Miss

BONUS: A Swing and a Miss

"Javier, aren't you worried that LaDonna might target you next?" That's the question I get asked most frequently. The answer is too late. Even before this series dropped, LaDonna began sending me spoof emails. I've received various messages, including some from fake accounts, and even attempts to hack into my podcast platform. Additionally, LaDonna tried other creative ways to obstruct my investigation and stop the legitimate reporting of her abusive behavior toward others. Fun, fun. ________ If you need an Intellectual Property attorney, I know a good one. https://www.casimirjones.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1814: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 14

1814: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 14

I’ve been investigating the Melissa Witt case for a while now, and just when I thought I had a handle on it, a new lead dropped into my lap. In this episode, I sit down with Patti Rush, a victim advocate who might have uncovered the most crucial evidence yet. We’re talking about a case so warped by misinformation that even those closest to it can’t tell what’s real anymore. But now, we’re pulling on a thread that could unravel the whole story—and maybe, just maybe, lead us to the truth about who really killed Melissa Witt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1815: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 15

1815: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 15

We continue our investigation into Charles Ray Vines and his potential involvement in the Melissa Witt murder. In this episode, we track down Vines’ former neighbor and friend, Thomas Seymour. Seymour claims that he spoke with Vines just before Vines was heading to the bowling alley to meet a girl named Melissa. What other information does Seymour have that could shed light on this 30-year-old mystery? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1816: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 16

1816: Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey part 16

Can you believe this is the 16th episode of our investigation into LaDonna Humphrey—a story that, honestly, I didn’t think would last this long. But here we are. Now, if you’ve followed along, you know this has been a wild ride. LaDonna, once a respected figure in the true crime community, has become the center of some truly shocking accusations. Stealing evidence from the Fort Smith Police Department? Allegations of harassment? Manipulating people for her own gain? It’s been hard to keep up, even for me. In this episode, we’ll get a little help trying to make sense of it all. I brought in retired FBI profiler Julia Cowley—yes, the Julia Cowley, the one who worked on the Golden State Killer case. She will help us break down LaDonna’s behavior and explain why someone might go to such extreme lengths to control others. You might be surprised by some of the parallels she draws between white-collar criminals and more violent offenders. We’re also going to revisit some of the disturbing messages that LaDonna has allegedly sent to her victims. And I’ll share some new evidence we’ve uncovered—evidence that links multiple harassing messages to a phone number connected to LaDonna herself. It’s the kind of proof that, quite frankly, is hard to ignore. But here’s what makes this episode different: today, we’re not just looking at the past. We’re asking what’s next for LaDonna Humphrey. With court cases, potential criminal investigations, and a growing list of accusers, is the end finally near for her? Or is this just another chapter in a never-ending saga? Guest: Julia Cowley, Retired FBI Profiler https://www.truecrimeconsult.com/ Watch LIVE Q&A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJr5bDWJ2nY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Season 17

1701: The Doula part 1

1701: The Doula part 1

Warning: This episode contains graphic discussions of pregnancy loss, sexual violence, and emotional abuse. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode of "Pretend," listen to the chilling tale of Kaitlyn Braun, a woman who orchestrated an elaborate pregnancy hoax, affecting nearly 60 doulas across Ontario. Seanna Hayes, a doula from London, Ontario, provides a firsthand account of her experience with Kaitlyn Braun. The story begins on a stormy night when Seanna is called to assist Kaitlyn, allegedly in labor, only to discover a web of lies, manipulation, and betrayal that spans across multiple doulas and involves a series of fake medical emergencies and hospital visits. This episode explores the psychological and emotional impact of Kaitlyn's actions on the doulas, the potential motives behind her behavior, and the aftermath of this bizarre case. Stay tuned for Part Two, exclusively on Patreon and Pretend+ on Apple Podcasts, where we continue the conversation with another doula who shares a very different experience with Kaitlyn Braun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1702: The Doula part 2

1702: The Doula part 2

In the second installment of "The Doula" series, we uncover new dimensions of Kaitlyn Braun’s elaborate pregnancy scams. This episode features a new doula speaking out about her experiences, the story of how Kaitlyn was finally caught, and a revealing interview with a former friend whom Kaitlyn also deceived. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1703: The Doula BREAKING NEWS

1703: The Doula BREAKING NEWS

BREAKING NEWS - Kaitlyn Braun is Arrested Again for Duping Doulas in Phony Pregnancy Scam 25-year-old Kaitlyn Braun, who is currently under house arrest for prior offenses involving fraud and harassment against doulas, faces new charges as of Tuesday. This week's charges come after new allegations of once again exploiting the trust of unsuspecting doulas by falsely soliciting support related to pregnancy and childbirth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices