Big Time Podcast Summary: "Missing Helen: Part 2 | 11"

Introduction

In the second part of the gripping two-part series, "Missing Helen," hosted by Steve Buscemi, Big Time delves deeper into the mysterious case involving the disappearance of Helen and the stolen shark incident. This episode, released on May 26, 2025, continues to unravel the complexities surrounding the Covino family's aquarium empire and the controversies that have put them under intense scrutiny.

Recap of Part 1

Steve Buscemi sets the stage by briefly touching upon his initial dislike for aquarium touch tanks before handing over the narrative to Rajeev Gola. The story picks up from the previous episode, where Helen was rescued, and her kidnapper was arrested. However, the plot thickens as the kidnapper claims to be an animal rights activist protecting the shark from poor aquarium conditions—a defense that was initially met with skepticism.

The Kidnapper's Claims and the Investigation

Rajeev Gola elaborates on the kidnapper's defense, noting that both he and his wife presented similar justifications for their actions. "He wanted to help," Rajeev observes at [00:42]. Intriguingly, the aquarium's general manager, Jenny Spellman, resigned less than a year after the incident, raising questions about internal issues within the facility.

The Covino Family Background

The narrative shifts focus to Ammon Covino, a pivotal figure behind the aquarium operations. Ammon is portrayed as an optimistic yet controversial leader whose refusal to obtain necessary permits has led to legal troubles. At [01:37], Ammon states, "You can have as many arguments and conversations and discussions with, you know, upper management as you want... it's their money, it's their business, it's their property." His disdain for bureaucratic processes is evident as he explains his challenges with acquiring building permits.

PETA's Involvement and Allegations

Michelle Sennett from PETA introduces a critical perspective on the Covino family's operations. At [07:44], she states, "The Covinos have a track record with facilities across the country of putting profits over animal welfare." The podcast highlights numerous allegations against Covino aquariums, including poorly maintained enclosures, animal neglect, and safety hazards for both animals and visitors.

Ammon Covino's Past and Wildlife Trafficking

The episode dives into Ammon Covino's criminal history, revealing his guilty plea to wildlife trafficking charges. He was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison for illegally importing stingrays and lemon sharks without proper permits. Ammon contends that he was entrapped by federal authorities, claiming, "They kind of do things dirty because that's how they are... trying to put someone in jail." However, evidence from an eight-year undercover investigation contradicts his assertions, firmly establishing his culpability.

Interview with Vince Covino

Vince Covino, Ammon's brother and founder of SeaQuest Aquariums, provides a contrasting viewpoint. He vehemently defends his and his brother's practices, arguing against animal activism. At [09:43], Vince declares, "Challenge it to anybody who says that keeping a lemur specifically in captivity and not touching him would be better off in the long run... they're wrong." His dismissive attitude towards PETA and regulatory bodies underscores the deep-seated conflict between the Covinos and animal welfare advocates.

Current Conflicts and Employee Allegations

The podcast exposes internal dissent within the Covino operations, featuring testimonies from former SeaQuest employees who allege neglect and mistreatment of animals. These employees have spearheaded online campaigns to boycott Covino facilities, successfully hindering the expansion of new aquariums in states like Florida and Connecticut. The cumulative effect of these allegations paints a bleak picture of the Covino family's commitment to animal welfare.

Final Insights and Conclusions

As the episode draws to a close, the complex interplay between the Covino family's business practices, legal battles, and activist opposition is evident. Despite the mounting evidence against them, Ammon and Vince Covino maintain their stance, with Vince emphasizing the positive impact of their aquariums on public education and animal interaction. At [23:13], Vince asserts, "I've taught children to smile... that's a core memory that teaches responsibility of what to do with the world."

The episode concludes by acknowledging the impressive yet controversial empire built by the Covino brothers. It leaves listeners pondering the ethical dimensions of animal interaction in public facilities and the fine line between education and exploitation.

Notable Quotes

• Ammon Covino ([01:37]): "You can have as many arguments and conversations and discussions with, you know, upper management as you want... it's their money, it's their business, it's their property."

• Vince Covino ([09:43]): "Challenge it to anybody who says that keeping a lemur specifically in captivity and not touching him would be better off in the long run... they're wrong."

• Michelle Sennett ([07:44]): "The Covinos have a track record with facilities across the country of putting profits over animal welfare."

• Rajeev Gola ([21:27]): "The empire that Ammon Covino has built is impressive. And the hand over fist success that he's had also seemed to convince him that the fact that he's being attacked is proof that he's doing something right."

Conclusion

"Missing Helen: Part 2" offers a compelling continuation of the story, uncovering the darker aspects of the Covino family's aquarium enterprises. Through interviews, investigative insights, and firsthand accounts, the episode provides a nuanced exploration of ambition, ethics, and the consequences of blurred moral lines in the pursuit of success.