Big Time Podcast: "Missing Helen: Part 1 | 10" – Detailed Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Big Time
• Host/Author: Apple TV+ / Campside Media
• Description: Big Time delves into the audacious dreams of criminals, exploring larger-than-life scams and schemes that almost succeeded. Hosted by Steve Buscemi, each episode uncovers a new story of elaborate heists and cons.
• Episode: Missing Helen: Part 1 | 10
• Release Date: May 26, 2025
• Produced By: Campside Media and Piece of Work Entertainment in association with Olive Productions

Introduction: Setting the Stage

Steve Buscemi opens the episode with a vivid description of a touch tank in an aquarium, humorously expressing his aversion to getting slimy but hinting at the central heist that unfolds within such an environment.

"Today's caper takes place in the murky water of one of those touch tanks."
— Steve Buscemi [00:00]

Reporter Rajeev Gola introduces the narrative, emphasizing the eccentric lifestyles of exotic pet enthusiasts and hinting at the complex hierarchy within these communities.

The Aquarium and Its Keepers

The San Antonio Aquarium is portrayed as a bustling hub with over 8,000 animals, interactive exhibits, and dedicated staff managing daily operations. Jamie Schenk, the Director of the Aquarium, and Jenny Spellman, the newly hired General Manager, are introduced as passionate fish enthusiasts committed to providing immersive experiences for visitors.

"We provide an experience for the guests to have an emotional attachment with that animal."
— Jamie Schenk [03:44]

Jenny Spellman recounts her first day managing the expansive facility, highlighting her extensive experience in similar roles and her reputation as a "brick wall" for security and operations.

"I walked up the stairs. I kind of followed the trail of leaking water out into the parking lot."
— Jenny Spellman [09:38]

The Heist: Disappearance of Ms. Helen

On July 28, 2018, Jenny Spellman arrives for her first day as General Manager, unaware that it would mark the beginning of a high-profile theft. A suspicious incident unfolds involving two men seen exiting the cold water room with a leaking stroller.

Jenny immediately senses something amiss and confronts the suspects, who claim the water leakage was accidental due to a spilled drink. However, Jenny's intuition tells her otherwise.

"It was Ms. Helen."
— Jenny Spellman [15:39]

Upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that a prized horn shark, later named Ms. Helen, has been stolen from a touch tank designed for guest interaction.

"She was the only horn shark we had. I knew exactly which one she was."
— Jamie Schenk [16:00]

Investigation and Pursuit

With the license plate number from the fleeing vehicle, Jenny contacts the Leon Valley Police Department. Initial skepticism from the authorities quickly shifts to serious investigation as video evidence points to a premeditated theft orchestrated by Anthony Michael Shannon, a 38-year-old plumber with a history of theft.

Jamie Schenk identifies the suspect from grainy security footage, revealing the meticulous planning behind the heist.

"He came a couple weeks before, and that's how I recognized him on the cameras."
— Jamie Schenk [12:17]

The police eventually trace the license plate to a suburban home, leading to a raid where Ms. Helen is found alive in the suspect's garage, much to the relief of the Aquarium staff.

"I was able to identify her. I couldn't believe she was alive."
— Jamie Schenk [22:26]

Aftermath and Media Frenzy

Ms. Helen's rescue sparks an international media frenzy, thrusting the once-obscure horn shark into the spotlight. The Aquarium staff, overwhelmed by the attention, take measures to protect Ms. Helen and other horn sharks by dispersing them across various exhibits.

"We're gonna get more horn sharks and we're just gonna put them in a bunch of different random exhibits."
— Jamie Schenk [24:09]

Anthony Shannon faces public backlash despite his claims of activism, ultimately being sentenced to two years in prison for felony theft.

"I actually took a shark, which was wrong, but it needed help."
— Anthony Michael Shannon [26:18]

Closing Remarks and Teaser for Part 2

The episode concludes with reflections on Shannon's motives and the lingering questions about potential mistreatment at the Aquarium, setting the stage for further exploration in the next installment.

"That's next week on Big Time."
— Rajeev Gola [26:38]

Key Takeaways

• Dedication of Aquarium Staff: The unwavering commitment of Jenny Spellman and Jamie Schenk highlights the challenges of managing a large-scale aquarium and responding to emergencies.

• Premeditated Theft: Anthony Shannon's calculated heist underscores a blend of personal obsession and criminal behavior, revealing the lengths individuals may go to fulfill unconventional desires.

• Media Impact: The sudden spotlight on Ms. Helen illustrates how media attention can amplify ordinary incidents into global events, affecting both humans and animal subjects involved.

• Ethical Considerations: Shannon's self-proclaimed activism raises questions about the methods used to advocate for animal welfare and the consequences of such actions.

Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps

• Steve Buscemi [00:00]:
  "Today's caper takes place in the murky water of one of those touch tanks."

• Jamie Schenk [03:44]:
  "We provide an experience for the guests to have an emotional attachment with that animal."

• Jenny Spellman [09:38]:
  "I walked up the stairs. I kind of followed the trail of leaking water out into the parking lot."

• Jenny Spellman [15:39]:
  "She was Ms. Helen."

• Jamie Schenk [22:26]:
  "I was able to identify her. I couldn't believe she was alive."

• Jamie Schenk [24:09]:
  "We're gonna get more horn sharks and we're just gonna put them in a bunch of different random exhibits."

• Anthony Michael Shannon [26:18]:
  "I actually took a shark, which was wrong, but it needed help."

Conclusion

"Missing Helen: Part 1" masterfully intertwines the passion of aquarium staff with the audacity of criminal endeavor, painting a vivid picture of a unique heist that captivated audiences worldwide. As the investigation unfolds, listeners are left eagerly anticipating the resolution and deeper insights into the motives behind Anthony Shannon's actions in the upcoming part of the story.

Follow and Listen:
Big Time is available on Apple Podcasts. Stay tuned for the next episode, where Anthony Shannon reveals all about his infamous heist.