Exposed: Cover-Up at Columbia University
He was a trusted OB-GYN working inside one of the most prestigious universities in the world, an Ivy League school that is home to Nobel Prize winners and medical all-stars. Yet behind closed doors, Dr. Robert Hadden assaulted hundreds — perhaps thousands — of unsuspecting patients. When it looked like no one would be held accountable, the survivors engaged in a decade-long fight for justice.
From the team behind the hit series Dr. Death, host and medical journalist Laura Beil unfurls the story of Dr. Hadden’s horrific behavior and the ensuing cover-up. It’s a story of power: who has it, how they use it, and what it takes to get it back.
Binge all episodes of Exposed exclusively and ad-free by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/exposed/ now.
Our Editor's Take
Dr. Robert Hadden was a proficient gynecologist working at Columbia University. Over a period of two decades, while consulting patients, he assaulted them. Exposed: Cover-Up at Columbia University tells the stories of these survivors and their pledge for justice.
Laura Beil is a health and science journalist. Audiences might recognize her award-winning work in the Wondery podcast Dr. Death. She's back for another true crime show with Exposed. It details the stories behind Dr. Hadden's assaults on his patients. Each episode presents real victim testimonials, interspersed with contextual commentary from Beil.
As the podcast continues, it follows the progression of the case. It begins with victims coming forward, following with their fight to stop Hadden. Along the way, many of Hadden's victims experienced pushback and disbelief. This forum helps more people hear their stories.
Exposed is a disturbing exposé. Audiences should note the episodes contain accounts of sexual assault. The victim reports are alarming, as they detail harrowing experiences. Beil does an excellent job as the host to broach the topics. She is thoughtful and considerate.
Exposed isn't just about exposing Dr. Hadden. It's a show about seeking justice, release, and peace. It details how some systems failed survivors. It mentions themes of power imbalances, vulnerability, and advantage. It provides a space for people to feel regret, anger, sadness, and relief. It also notes cases in the media when the victims experienced similar abuse. These include the Bill Cosby and Harvey Weinstein cases. One of the show's main goals is to share information on how to get help and support for those who need it.
This series contains equal parts horror, bravery, and determination. Hearing victims gain strength and find justice is empowering. Listening to what it took to get there is confronting. Exposed: Cover-Up at Columbia University is a series about survival, strength, and support.
Episodes