The Opportunist

PodcastOne

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 Hannah Smith. read less

Our Editor's Take

The Opportunist podcast is a true crime program about charismatic people who used their talents for bad, not for good. All sorts of charlatans and swindlers get their lives examined on this show. And the title explains the theme. Each episode is about someone who was an opportunist. They all preyed on others for their own benefit.

Hannah Smith hosts The Opportunist podcast. She is a longtime producer of comedy shows like One Bad Mother and Judge John Hodgman. She also created and hosted You at Home, a podcast about people's relationships to their household items. With this program, she talks about admired people who weren't what they seemed to be.

Smith started The Opportunist podcast in 2021 with an eight-part season about Sherry Shriner. Shriner ran an internet religious ministry. But it got more extreme and turned into what others called an "alien reptile cult." When one member killed another, it brought national focus to Shriner and her cult. The show explores how and why someone like Shriner could get such a devoted following.

Some of The Opportunist episodes are multipart explorations of one person's schemes. Peggy Fulford was a powerful financial advisor and manager. She worked with athletes like Dennis Rodman and Ricky Williams. Fulford meant so much to Rodman that he thanked her in his NBA Hall of Fame acceptance speech. But Fulford was scamming Rodman and her other clients. The podcast talks about how Fulford fooled them for years. That is until they started suffering financial consequences. In the last episode about Fulford, the scammer talks to Smith to give her side of the story.

Other show subjects get single episodes. They include a fake psychic, an online dating scammer, and a phony deep-sea diver. Those who want to know more about real-life grifters may enjoy The Opportunist. Each episode averages around 45 minutes in length.

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Unmasking a Hero: Tim Ballard - The Opportunist Season 10

Unmasking a Hero: Tim Ballard - The Opportunist Season 10

Coming October 21, 2024... In the 10th season of "The Opportunist: Tim Ballard," PodcastOne will explore controversy surrounding Tim Ballard, the celebrated founder of Operation Underground Railroad, an organization known for its mission to combat human trafficking. Hailed by some as a modern-day hero, Ballard's reputation is now tarnished by controversy as allegations of sexual misconduct have emerged - shaking the foundations of his crusade. Through exclusive interviews with victims and those who know him best, this podcast series aims to unravel the complexities of Ballard's dual persona- a savior to some, a predator to others. Join host Sarah James McLaughlin as she explores the rise and potential fall of a man whose actions have sparked a national conversation on trust, power, and accountability.

Episodes

Tim Ballard E6: Crusade & Conspiracy

Tim Ballard E6: Crusade & Conspiracy

In this episode, we delve into Tim Ballard’s connection to QAnon conspiracy theories and the role the Sound of Freedom movie played in reinforcing these narratives. We explore how the film’s themes of child trafficking and heroic rescues mirrored common QAnon stereotypes, fueling its popularity among conspiracy believers.

Tim Ballard E5: The Church

Tim Ballard E5: The Church

In this episode, we examine how Tim Ballard's ties to the LDS Church and his relationship with Former President M. Russell Ballard may have provided cover for the controversial "couple ruse" used in undercover operations. Allegations suggest this tactic, supported by Ballard's church ties, played a role in shielding him from scrutiny as claims of inappropriate behavior surfaced.

Tim Ballard E4: The Couples Ruse

Tim Ballard E4: The Couples Ruse

In this episode, we investigate the controversial "couple ruse" tactic used by Tim Ballard during undercover operations. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that this strategy blurred professional boundaries and contributed to claims of inappropriate conduct, with some accusing Ballard of predatory behavior.

Tim Ballard E3: A Broken Moral Compass

Tim Ballard E3: A Broken Moral Compass

In this episode, we explore the pull of Tim Ballard’s powerful appeal and how his public persona drew volunteers like Bree Righter to the OUR movement. And we look at how that appeal blinded supporters to his potential misdeeds.

Tim Ballard E2: The Origin Myth

Tim Ballard E2: The Origin Myth

In this episode, we explore the rise of Tim Ballard, from his claims of being in the CIA to his early days in law enforcement to at DHS. We examine how Ballard built a global anti-trafficking organization and gained widespread attention for his daring rescue missions. Tune in to hear the story behind the man and the movement that has sparked both praise and controversy.

Tim Ballard E1: For A Good Cause

Tim Ballard E1: For A Good Cause

In this episode, we dive into the recent allegations made by Celeste Borys against Tim Ballard, the founder of Operation Underground Railroad. Borys accuses Ballard of unethical behavior during their work together, raising serious questions about his methods and leadership. Join us as we unpack these claims and explore their potential impact on Ballard's reputation and anti-trafficking efforts.

Unmasking a Hero: Tim Ballard - The Opportunist Season 10

Unmasking a Hero: Tim Ballard - The Opportunist Season 10

Coming October 21, 2024... In the 10th season of "The Opportunist: Tim Ballard," PodcastOne will explore controversy surrounding Tim Ballard, the celebrated founder of Operation Underground Railroad, an organization known for its mission to combat human trafficking. Hailed by some as a modern-day hero, Ballard's reputation is now tarnished by controversy as allegations of sexual misconduct have emerged - shaking the foundations of his crusade. Through exclusive interviews with victims and those who know him best, this podcast series aims to unravel the complexities of Ballard's dual persona- a savior to some, a predator to others. Join host Sarah James McLaughlin as she explores the rise and potential fall of a man whose actions have sparked a national conversation on trust, power, and accountability.

Sneak Preview of a New Season of “The Opportunist”

Sneak Preview of a New Season of “The Opportunist”

Join the host and producers of The Opportunist for a behind-the-scenes discussion on some of the most captivating single-story episodes from the past season. Plus, get an exclusive sneak peek at the twists and turns of the upcoming season, which will delve into the rise and fall of Tim Ballard, the founder of the anti-sex trafficking organization Operation Underground Railroad.

Dr. Henry Lee: Evidence of Foul Play

Dr. Henry Lee: Evidence of Foul Play

In this episode, we dive into the controversial career of forensic scientist Dr. Henry Lee, exploring allegations that he may have fabricated or mishandled evidence in several high-profile cases. Did one of America's most famous forensic experts use his scientific credentials to help investigators in convicting two innocent men?

Baby Doe: An Afghan Abduction

Baby Doe: An Afghan Abduction

In this episode, we delve into the controversial story of U.S. Marine Joshua Mast, who adopted a young Afghan girl under questionable circumstances. Using the 2021 fall of Afghanistan and its ensuing chaos as a pretext, Mast navigated legal and ethical gray areas to carry out the adoption, sparking intense debate and legal battles.

Arian Taherzadeh & Haider Ali: Highstakes Cosplay

Arian Taherzadeh & Haider Ali: Highstakes Cosplay

In this episode of The Opportunist, we explore the bizarre case of Arian Taherzadeh and Haider Ali, who posed as federal agents and infiltrated the highest levels of the U.S. Secret Service with astonishing ease. We delve into the duo's motivations, the extent of their deception, and the ramifications of their actions on national security. Tune in to learn how these two individuals turned deception into an audacious opportunity, exposing serious security flaws surrounding President Joe Biden and his family.

David Xu: Toxic Workplace

David Xu: Toxic Workplace

In this episode of “The Opportunist,” we explore the chilling case of David Xu, a seemingly ordinary engineer who attempted to poison his coworker with cadmium over a period of several months. We explore his twisted motives behind his actions and uncover the dark side of a workplace rivalry.

Judge Jeffrey Ferguson: Deadly Lapse of Judgment

Judge Jeffrey Ferguson: Deadly Lapse of Judgment

Is justice really blind? In this week’s episode of “The Opportunist” we explore the shocking case of Judge Jeffrey Ferguson. Known as a strict law and order judge, Ferguson is accused of shooting his wife during a drunken rage. Despite admitting to the murder via text message, Judge Ferguson is currently out on bail and has been allowed to leave the state of California. Is Judge Fergeson leveraging his deep connections within the judicial system to receive preferential treatment?

Sebastián Marset: The Ultimate Score

Sebastián Marset: The Ultimate Score

Sebastián Marset is currently one of South America’s most powerful drug traffickers - opening new cocaine trafficking routes to Europe. In this episode of the "The Opportunist," we explore his rise to power and uncover how Marset cunningly used soccer to hide in plain sight, and to launder vast drug profits.

Ruby Corado: Casa of Cards

Ruby Corado: Casa of Cards

Casa Ruby was once a vibrant shelter offering essential services to Washington D.C.'s vulnerable and at-risk LGBTQ+ community. The non-profit shelter was the vision of Ruby Corado, an activist born in El Salvador, who dedicated her life to advocating for gay and transgender individuals. Her efforts garnered numerous awards and helped her secure millions in government grants and donations from wealthy philanthropists. However, suddenly the shelter closed, and Corado fled the country.

Sam Haskell IV: Second-Rate Slasher

Sam Haskell IV: Second-Rate Slasher

As the son of a powerful Hollywood agent, Sam Haskell IV seemed to have everything at his fingertips - money, power and connections. But when a homeless man discovers part of a human body in a dumpster in an upscale Los Angeles neighborhood, Haskell’s dark secret is revealed.

Sister Mary Margaret Kreuper: Unholy Roller

Sister Mary Margaret Kreuper: Unholy Roller

To the families of St. James Catholic School in Torrance, California, Sister Mary Margaret Kreuper and Sister Lana Chang were the picture of morality and religious devotion. The two lifelong educators were known at St. James as stern disciplinarians, who instilled their students with Christian values that were disappearing from society. But the nuns had a secret addiction, an addition that would rip apart the small Christian community.

The Curse of “The Three Body Problem”

The Curse of “The Three Body Problem”

Xu Yao’s career potential seemed limitless. The Chinese lawyer and entertainment executive was in charge of all business related to the best selling Chinese science fiction trilogy, and soon to be hit Netflix show, “The Three Body Problem.” But then, overnight, the entire franchise, and all of the life changing wealth that came with it, was all taken from Xu Yao. He had been demoted. Xu Yao’s demotion set in motion a revenge plot ripped from the pages of a Hollywood script.

The Fake CIA Spy

The Fake CIA Spy

As the veteran and former spokesperson for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, Garrison Courtney seemed destined to end up as a Washington, DC powerbroker. But Courtney had a secret. He was a conman and was tricking some of America’s most senior National Security officials out of millions of dollars.

Vigilante - Byron David Smith: THE DEER HUNTER

Vigilante - Byron David Smith: THE DEER HUNTER

Byron Smith was tired of his home being burgled. He said it had been broken into at least a half dozen times. And he was determined not to let it happen again. So, Smith set a trap and laid in wait to protect his “castle.” When two teenage cousins broke into his house on Elm Street, it set off a true-life horror story. Listen to Vigilante: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vigilante/id1622288667 https://open.spotify.com/show/49wzulSXKQKWYOIWoTVEPT?si=0d4c8835885e4fa1