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 a facade of being a high achiever while secretly engaging in a drug distribution scheme. It explores how her ambition and access contributed to her rise and even…
- Chef Valentino Luchin: Recipe for Ruin
This episode of The Opportunist profiles chef Valentino Luchin, whose acclaimed restaurant faced financial ruin, compelling him to commit bank robberies to stay in business.
- Dishonorable Judge Mullins: Above the Law
This episode of The Opportunist details the alleged abuses of Kentucky Judge Kevin Mullins, who is accused of soliciting sex from inmates using his official capacity. The story covers how his abuse of power reached a conclusion.
- Daryl Hagler and Kenny Rozenberg: The Care Con
This episode of The Opportunist details how Daryl Hagler and Kenneth Rozenberg allegedly ran a nursing home network in New Jersey where profits reportedly came before patient care. The investigation examines the scrutiny their operation fa…
- Murder, Money, and a Children's Book
This episode of The Opportunist details the case of Kouri Richins, a widow whose husband's suspicious death exposed a scheme involving deceit and greed. The story covers how she allegedly exploited trust and love.
- Ian Bick: Ponzi Party
This episode of The Opportunist covers Ian Bick's multimillion-dollar fraud scheme, run from Danbury, Connecticut. The story details how Bick, posing as a young entrepreneur, convinced those close to him to invest before his Ponzi scheme e…
- Ari Gisell: Murder in Baja
The episode of The Opportunist examines the case of Ari Giselle, connected to the murders of three surfers in Baja California. It details the unfolding of the crime and its consequences.
- The Reckoning of LA County: Camp Scott
This episode of The Opportunist details accusations that probation guards at LA County’s Camp Scott exploited their authority to sexually abuse the girls in their custody. It explores how power dynamics, isolation, and systemic failures co…
- Jontay Porter NBA Fixer
This episode of The Opportunist discusses accusations against NBA player Jontay Porter for allegedly fixing games to benefit gambling partners. The narrative explores the potential consequences for his career and the sport's integrity.
- Adva Lavie: Model Thief
This episode of The Opportunist details the story of Adva Lavie, a model who led a double life, defrauding other models and older men. The scheme, hidden in plain sight, was enabled by her looks, access, and perceived opportunities.
- Mike Bickle: A Prayer, a Prophecy, and a Predator
The Opportunist episode examines allegations and unanswered questions that have shadowed pastor Mike Bickle's ministry.
- “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. It examines how his ministry utilized aggressive fundraising and promises of divine favor, illustrating how spiritual authority…
- Jeffrey Manchester: The Rooftop Robber
This episode of The Opportunist profiles Jeffrey Manchester, also known as the “Rooftop Burglar.” It reveals the real story behind the media portrayal, focusing on how an Army soldier engaged in a double life of break-ins, secrecy, and ing…
- Steven Tomkins: Public Office, Private Gain
Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins initially promised reform but his story, as told on The Opportunist, suggests his crusade for change became intertwined with power and personal benefit.
- Danette Colbert: Bourbon Street Hustler
On The Opportunist, Adan Manzano is found dead in a New Orleans hotel, leading investigators to suspect Danette Colbert. A pattern of manipulation and greed suggests Adan may not have been her only victim.
- Dr Thomas Weiner: The Cancer Con
The Opportunist podcast investigates Dr. Thomas Weiner, a Montana oncologist accused of diagnosing patients with cancer they did not have. The episode details a narrative of greed and deception that led to shattered lives.
- Charlie Javice: The Startup Swindler
This episode of The Opportunist details the rise and fall of Charlie Javice, a fintech founder whose $175 million startup sale to JPMorgan Chase unraveled due to a significant fraud.
- Mary Mahoney’s Old French House: Fish Fraud
This episode of The Opportunist investigates the fish fraud scandal 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
This podcast explores real people behind shocking secrets and nefarious organizations, covering events like Jonestown, Heaven's Gate, the Octopus Murders, and the Waco Siege. Conspiracy Theories, Cults, and Crimes releases new episodes eve…
- Jeremiah “The Bull” Evans: Alpha Conned
The Opportunist podcast covers the story of Jeremiah 'The Bull' Evans, who promoted the Alpha Con convention with promises of wealth and influence. His venture ultimately resulted in fraud charges and a prison sentence.
- Kyle Norton Riester: Lieutenant LSD
This episode of The Opportunist covers the story of Kyle Norton Riester, an Army pilot who engaged in weekend LSD use and sold psychedelics on the dark web, ultimately facing federal charges.
- Exporting the Mission: Tim Ballard’s Legal Trouble in Argentina
The Opportunist follows up on Tim Ballard, who is currently under investigation in Argentina for alleged misconduct related to his anti-trafficking activities. The episode examines the increasing international attention and questions surro…
- Aimee Bock & Salim Said: Defrauding Our Future
Aimee Bock and Salim Said exploited a federal food aid program, defrauding millions under the guise of helping hungry children. This episode exposes the ambition, deception, and oversight failures behind one of the largest pandemic-era sca…
- Eugene Weekly: Black, White, and In The Red
Eugene Weekly ceased publication after staff found a longtime employee had been secretly embezzling funds for years. The episode details the betrayal and the subsequent fight to save the community newspaper.
- Ryan James Wedding: Powder Runs
The podcast episode 'Ryan James Wedding: Powder Runs' from 'The Opportunist' details the transformation of Ryan James Wedding from a promising snowboarder to an international drug trafficker, exploring the role of fame, ambition, and risk…
- Smoke, Mirrors, and Medical Bills
The Opportunist podcast investigates John Hunter Raines, a former CFO who allegedly exploited a system designed to help families with children suffering from severe birth injuries. He is accused of prioritizing personal gain over the needs…
- Jacob Runyan & Chase Cominsky: Bait & Switch
The Opportunist Podcast details how Jacob Runyan and Chase Cominsky allegedly employed illegal tactics to cheat their way through major fishing tournaments, sending ripples through the competitive fishing world.
- John Darwin: Up a Creek Without a Paddle
This episode of The Opportunist details the case of John Darwin, who staged a canoeing accident as part of a calculated plan. It examines how his scheme was uncovered and the involvement of his wife.
- Murder, Money, and a Children's Book
This episode of The Opportunist details the case of Kouri Richins, a woman whose husband's death revealed alleged deceit and greed. The narrative focuses on how she purportedly exploited trust and love in a shocking scheme.
- Part 2: The Season and Scandal That Shattered Hayfield
Part 2 of The Opportunist covers the Hayfield High dream season, driven by Coach Overton's win-at-all-costs approach, and the subsequent scandal that unraveled the team and impacted the community.
- Part 1: The Opportunist Coach Overton’s Big Move
Coach Overton's move to Hayfield High was initially celebrated as a way to save the football program. However, the description suggests his actions were opportunistic and potentially rule-bending, aimed at enhancing his personal legacy.
- Part 2: The Fraternity
This episode of The Opportunist explores the toxic culture at the New York City Ballet, fostered by Peter Martins, which enabled misconduct such as Chase Finlay's inappropriate photography.
- The New York City Ballet, Part 1: Peter Martins
This episode of The Opportunist details allegations of abuse and exploitation against Peter Martins, leader of the American Ballet Company. It examines how he allegedly used his influence to exploit dancers and manipulate others to maintai…
- John Greer: Above the Law
This episode details the story of Officer John Greer, who abused his law enforcement authority to commit murders. The episode covers the secrets he hid and his subsequent reign of terror.
- Tim Ballard E10: The Roundtable
The final episode of The Opportunist: Tim Ballard - Unmasking a Hero features host Sarah James McLaughlin and the series' producers and writers discussing their creative and investigative methods. They also share their efforts to get an in…
- Tim Ballard E9: The Lawsuit
The Opportunist podcast covers 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 situation, detailing his legal troubles, a break with the LDS Church, and his efforts to manage public scrutiny.
- Tim Ballard E7: Too Close to the Sun
This episode details the downfall of Tim Ballard, exploring how the exposure of his hidden actions led to his supporters pulling away. His promising future became overshadowed by revelations.
- Tim Ballard E6: Crusade & Conspiracy
This episode examines Tim Ballard's connection to QAnon conspiracy theories, exploring how the movie Sound of Freedom reinforced these narratives by echoing common QAnon stereotypes and appealing to believers.
- Tim Ballard E5: The Church
This episode investigates Tim Ballard's connections to the LDS Church and M. Russell Ballard. It explores how these ties may have facilitated the use of the controversial "couple ruse" tactic and potentially shielded Ballard from scrutiny…
- Tim Ballard E4: The Couples Ruse
This episode examines Tim Ballard's use of the "couple ruse" tactic during undercover operations. It delves into allegations that this strategy led to blurred professional boundaries and accusations of predatory conduct.
- Tim Ballard E3: A Broken Moral Compass
This episode examines Tim Ballard's public appeal and how it attracted volunteers to the OUR movement, potentially blinding supporters to his alleged misdeeds.
- Tim Ballard E1: For A Good Cause
This episode examines allegations by Celeste Borys against Tim Ballard, founder of Operation Underground Railroad, concerning unethical conduct. The discussion explores the claims and their potential effect on Ballard's anti-trafficking wo…
- Tim Ballard E2: The Origin Myth
This episode details the rise of Tim Ballard, covering his background in law enforcement and the creation of his international anti-trafficking organization. It examines his acclaimed rescue missions and the controversies surrounding him a…
- Unmasking a Hero: Tim Ballard - The Opportunist Season 10
Season 10 of The Opportunist, hosted by Sarah James McLaughlin, examines the controversy surrounding Tim Ballard, founder of Operation Underground Railroad. The series will explore allegations of sexual misconduct and his complex public im…
- Sneak Preview of a New Season of “The Opportunist”
The Opportunist podcast shares a behind-the-scenes look at past episodes and previews the upcoming season, which will focus on the rise and fall of Tim Ballard, founder of Operation Underground Railroad.
- Dr. Henry Lee: Evidence of Foul Play
This episode examines the career of forensic scientist Dr. Henry Lee, exploring allegations of evidence fabrication and mishandling in high-profile cases and questioning his potential role in wrongful convictions.
- Baby Doe: An Afghan Abduction
The Opportunist podcast explores the controversial adoption of an Afghan girl by U.S. Marine Joshua Mast, which occurred under questionable circumstances during the chaotic 2021 fall of Afghanistan, leading to legal and ethical debates.
- Arian Taherzadeh & Haider Ali: Highstakes Cosplay
The Opportunist covers the case of Arian Taherzadeh and Haider Ali, who impersonated federal agents to infiltrate the Secret Service. The episode examines their motivations, deception, and the impact on national security.
- David Xu: Toxic Workplace
This episode of "The Opportunist" details the case of David Xu, an engineer who poisoned his coworker with cadmium. The episode examines his motives and the workplace rivalry that led to the crime.