The Opportunist
True Crime & Paranormal
About
The Opportunist tells true stories of regular people who turn sinister by embracing opportunity. How does an everyday person turn into a thief, a scammer or a cult leader? Perhaps the most dangerous person is the one who appears the most normal. Perhaps there is a dark potential lurking inside all of us that is just waiting for the right opportunity to emerge. The Opportunist is an original podcast hosted by Sarah James McLaughlin.
Episodes
- Natalie Marie Gonzalez: High Achiever Drug Dealer
This episode of The Opportunist details how Natalie Marie Gonzalez maintained the image of a high achiever while secretly running a drug distribution operation. It explores how her ambition and access contributed to her rise and eventual d…
- Chef Valentino Luchin: Recipe for Ruin
Chef Valentino Luchin's celebrated career took a drastic turn from acclaimed restaurateur to bank robber as he faced mounting financial pressure. This episode details the unraveling of his career in an attempt to keep his business afloat.
- Dishonorable Judge Mullins: Above the Law
This episode of The Opportunist covers the alleged actions of Kentucky Judge Kevin Mullins, who is accused of using his position to solicit sex from inmates. The story details how his alleged abuse of power concluded.
- Daryl Hagler and Kenny Rozenberg: The Care Con
This episode examines the nursing home network created by Daryl Hagler and Kenneth Rozenberg in New Jersey. It explores allegations that the operation prioritized profits over patient care and discusses the subsequent scrutiny and fallout.
- Murder, Money, and a Children's Book
This episode of The Opportunist details the case of Kouri Richins, a woman who appeared to be a grieving widow but whose husband's suspicious death revealed deceit and greed. The story explores how she exploited trust and love in a shockin…
- Ian Bick: Ponzi Party
This episode of The Opportunist details how Ian Bick, posing as a young entrepreneur, operated a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme from Danbury, Connecticut. The episode explores how he gained the trust of friends, investors, and family bef…
- Ari Gisell: Murder in Baja
The Opportunist episode 'Ari Giselle: Murder in Baja' examines the killing of three surfers in Baja California, focusing on Ari Giselle and the international scrutiny that followed.
- The Reckoning of LA County: Camp Scott
The Opportunist episode "The Reckoning of LA County: Camp Scott" examines how a flawed oversight system and abuse of power by probation guards at Camp Scott led to the sexual exploitation of vulnerable girls in custody.
- Jontay Porter NBA Fixer
This episode of The Opportunist details accusations against NBA player Jontay Porter, who allegedly fixed games to facilitate bets placed by his gambling associates. The narrative explores the potential consequences for his career and the…
- Adva Lavie: Model Thief
The Opportunist episode "Adva Lavie: Model Thief" explores the double life of Adva Lavie, a model who defrauded fellow models and older men. The episode examines how her appearance, access, and opportunities enabled a long-running deceptio…
- Mike Bickle: A Prayer, a Prophecy, and a Predator
The Opportunist podcast examines allegations and lingering questions about pastor Mike Bickle's ministry. This episode details troubling claims that remained in the shadows.
- “Pastor David Taylor: Jesus’s Best Friend Loves You”
This episode of The Opportunist details the story of Pastor David Taylor and his Kingdom of God Global Church, examining how aggressive fundraising and promises of divine favor were used for manipulation, control, and financial gain.
- Jeffrey Manchester: The Rooftop Robber
This episode of The Opportunist features Jeffrey Manchester, known as the
- Steven Tomkins: Public Office, Private Gain
The Opportunist podcast investigates Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins' rise to power, detailing how his promised justice reforms evolved into a system of personal gain and loyalty.
- Danette Colbert: Bourbon Street Hustler
This episode of The Opportunist focuses on the investigation into Adan Manzano's death, with suspicion falling on Danette Colbert due to a suspected pattern of manipulation and greed.
- Dr Thomas Weiner: The Cancer Con
The Opportunist podcast investigates Dr. Thomas Weiner, a Montana oncologist accused of misdiagnosing patients with cancer for personal gain, leading to shattered lives.
- Charlie Javice: The Startup Swindler
The Opportunist podcast covers Charlie Javice, a fintech founder who sold her startup to JPMorgan Chase for $175 million. The episode details the fraud behind her success and downfall.
- Mary Mahoney’s Old French House: Fish Fraud
The Opportunist podcast discusses the hidden story of fish fraud at Mary Mahoney's Old French House, a long-standing Gulf Coast landmark known for serving presidents and celebrities.
- Introducing: CONSPIRACY THEORIES, CULTS, AND CRIMES
Conspiracy Theories, Cults, and Crimes explores real people behind shocking secrets and nefarious organizations, covering cases from Jonestown to the Waco Siege. The podcast airs every Wednesday.
- Jeremiah “The Bull” Evans: Alpha Conned
This episode of The Opportunist examines the rise and fall of entrepreneur Jeremiah "The Bull" Evans, whose Alpha Con convention led to fraud charges and a prison sentence.
- Kyle Norton Riester: Lieutenant LSD
This episode of The Opportunist details the story of Kyle Norton Riester, an Army pilot involved in weekend LSD use and selling psychedelics on the dark web, which resulted in federal charges.
- Exporting the Mission: Tim Ballard’s Legal Trouble in Argentina
This episode of The Opportunist details Tim Ballard's legal investigation in Argentina concerning alleged misconduct in his anti-trafficking efforts. The report touches upon the increasing international attention and doubts regarding his m…
- Aimee Bock & Salim Said: Defrauding Our Future
Aimee Bock and Salim Said allegedly defrauded a federal food aid program of millions. The episode
- Eugene Weekly: Black, White, and In The Red
Eugene Weekly unexpectedly ceased publication when staff uncovered years of financial mismanagement by a long-term employee. The episode details the betrayal and subsequent efforts to save the community newspaper.
- Ryan James Wedding: Powder Runs
The podcast episode 'Ryan James Wedding: Powder Runs' on The Opportunist details the transformation of Ryan James Wedding from a promising snowboarder to an international drug trafficker, exploring the roles of fame, ambition, and risk in…
- Smoke, Mirrors, and Medical Bills
The Opportunist podcast investigates John Hunter Raines, a CFO who oversaw funds for families with children suffering from severe birth injuries. He exploited the system for personal gain, leaving the families he was meant to help in a dif…
- Jacob Runyan & Chase Cominsky: Bait & Switch
The Opportunist Podcast covers how Jacob Runyan and Chase Cominsky allegedly cheated in major fishing tournaments using illegal methods. Their actions sent shockwaves through the fishing community.
- John Darwin: Up a Creek Without a Paddle
This episode details the case of John Darwin, who disappeared in a staged canoeing accident. The narrative uncovers his calculated plan and the complicity of his wife in the elaborate deception.
- Murder, Money, and a Children's Book
This episode details the case of Kouri Richins, a woman who allegedly exploited trust and love in a scheme connected to her husband's suspicious death, shocking those who knew her.
- Part 2: The Season and Scandal That Shattered Hayfield
This episode covers the win-at-all-costs mentality of Coach Overton at Hayfield High, detailing how his actions led to both a successful season and a scandal that impacted the community.
- Part 1: The Opportunist Coach Overton’s Big Move
Coach Overton's leap to Hayfield High School was met with praise, but his ambition drove him to bend rules to build his legacy.
- Part 2: The Fraternity
This episode explores the misuse of power within the New York City Ballet, stemming from a misogynistic culture allegedly created by Peter Martins. It details how dancer Chase Finlay was implicated in taking inappropriate photos and videos…
- The New York City Ballet, Part 1: Peter Martins
This episode examines the allegations of abuse and exploitation within the American Ballet Company under Peter Martins. It details how Martins allegedly used his position to exploit dancers and manipulate others to maintain control.
- John Greer: Above the Law
The Opportunist episode "John Greer: Above the Law" details the story of Officer John Greer, who exploited his law enforcement authority to commit murders and engage in a reign of terror.
- Tim Ballard E10: The Roundtable
In the final episode of The Opportunist: Tim Ballard, host Sarah James McLaughlin speaks with producers and writers about the series' creation and their attempts to interview the new leader of O.U.R. Rescue.
- Tim Ballard E9: The Lawsuit
This episode of The Opportunist discusses new allegations against Tim Ballard, focusing on a federal civil lawsuit that accuses him of exploiting his leadership role at O.U.R. to traffic women he worked with.
- Tim Ballard E8: Operation Resurrection
This episode covers Tim Ballard's current challenges, including multiple lawsuits and a split with the LDS Church, as he deals with scandal and attempts to retain his public standing.
- Tim Ballard E7: Too Close to the Sun
This episode details the downfall of Tim Ballard following the exposure of his hidden actions. As revelations emerged, his supporters began to withdraw, casting a shadow over his previously bright future.
- Tim Ballard E6: Crusade & Conspiracy
This episode examines Tim Ballard's connection to QAnon conspiracy theories. It investigates how the film Sound of Freedom may have reinforced QAnon stereotypes, contributing to its popularity among believers.
- Tim Ballard E5: The Church
This episode explores Tim Ballard's connections to the LDS Church and M. Russell Ballard, investigating claims that these ties offered protection for controversial undercover tactics and deflected attention from allegations of misconduct.
- Tim Ballard E4: The Couples Ruse
This episode examines the "couple ruse" tactic employed by Tim Ballard during undercover operations. It addresses allegations that this strategy blurred professional boundaries and led to claims of predatory behavior.
- Tim Ballard E3: A Broken Moral Compass
This episode examines Tim Ballard's influential public persona and its effect on attracting volunteers to the OUR movement, while also considering how this appeal may have obscured potential misconduct.
- Tim Ballard E1: For A Good Cause
This episode examines allegations made by Celeste Borys against Tim Ballard, founder of Operation Underground Railroad, regarding his alleged unethical behavior and leadership in anti-trafficking work.
- Tim Ballard E2: The Origin Myth
This episode delves into the origins of Tim Ballard, tracing his path from law enforcement and DHS to founding a prominent anti-trafficking organization. The discussion covers his rise to attention through rescue missions and the praise an…
- Unmasking a Hero: Tim Ballard - The Opportunist Season 10
Season 10 of The Opportunist, hosted by Sarah James McLaughlin, investigates Tim Ballard, founder of Operation Underground Railroad. The series examines controversies and allegations of sexual misconduct surrounding Ballard, contrasting hi…
- Sneak Preview of a New Season of “The Opportunist”
The Opportunist podcast offers a preview of its upcoming season, which will explore the story of Tim Ballard and Operation Underground Railroad. The episode also includes a discussion of captivating past episodes.
- Dr. Henry Lee: Evidence of Foul Play
This episode of The Opportunist examines the career of forensic scientist Dr. Henry Lee, exploring allegations of evidence fabrication and mishandling in high-profile cases and questioning if his credentials were used to wrongly convict in…
- Baby Doe: An Afghan Abduction
The Opportunist podcast explores the controversial adoption of an Afghan girl by U.S. Marine Joshua Mast. The adoption occurred under questionable circumstances, using the 2021 fall of Afghanistan as a pretext, leading to legal battles and…
- Arian Taherzadeh & Haider Ali: Highstakes Cosplay
The Opportunist investigates how Arian Taherzadeh and Haider Ali posed as federal agents, infiltrated the Secret Service, and exposed security flaws concerning President Joe Biden and his family.
- David Xu: Toxic Workplace
The Opportunist podcast delves into the disturbing case of David Xu, an engineer who poisoned a colleague with cadmium over several months. The episode examines Xu's motivations and the toxic workplace dynamics that may have contributed to…