Big Time: The Homecoming Queen’s Gambit | Episode 1 Summary

Released March 24, 2025

Introduction

In the premiere episode of Big Time, hosted by the iconic Steve Buscemi, listeners are introduced to a gripping tale of ambition, deception, and the far-reaching consequences of criminal schemes. Big Time delves into the lives of criminals who dared to dream differently, and in this episode, titled "The Homecoming Queen’s Gambit," Steve sets the stage by highlighting the allure of supporting characters who often go unnoticed but play pivotal roles in grand narratives.

Host's Opening Remarks (00:00 - 03:00)

Steve Buscemi reminisces about his early days working as an usher at the Bel Air Theater in Valley Stream, Long Island. He reflects on how repeatedly watching films sharpened his appreciation for supporting characters, drawing parallels to the upcoming story about Emily Grover and her mother, Laura Carroll.

Steve Buscemi (00:00): “These roles often go uncelebrated and live in the shadow of the leading characters.”

He introduces the premise of the podcast, emphasizing stories of underdogs and misfits who operate on their own terms, setting the tone for the episode’s exploration of a high school scandal.

The Crime Unfolds (03:00 - 09:01)

Reporter Rajeev Gola begins by painting a picture of Laura Carroll, an assistant principal at Bellevue Elementary in Pensacola, Florida. On November 2020, Laura is summoned to the district headquarters for an interview with investigator Gary Marsh regarding suspicious activity in the school district’s student information system, Focus.

Gary Marsh (03:00): “Have you, as an administrator, ever been aware of anybody having inappropriate access to the student information system?”

Laura’s serene denial initially sets the stage for escalating tensions.

Background on Emily Grover and Tate High School (04:01 - 09:27)

Rajeev shifts focus to Emily Grover, a 17-year-old senior at Tate High School, known for her popularity, academic performance, and involvement in extracurricular activities. Gabe Ferguson, a friend and former student, provides insight into Emily’s social standing and the significance of the homecoming election within the school community.

Gabe Ferguson (07:41): “She was friends with a lot of people, but, like, it was kind of like a mean girl situation.”

The episode underscores the importance of the homecoming queen election, described as a major event with extensive student and parental involvement, setting the backdrop for the ensuing scandal.

The Election Scandal Emerges (09:27 - 14:00)

As the homecoming celebrations unfold, rumors surface about irregularities in the election votes. The system Election Runner, used for casting votes, flags multiple attempts to vote using the same credentials, indicating possible fraudulent activities. An anonymous tip accuses Emily Grover and her mother, Laura Carroll, of manipulating the election.

Rajeev Gola (14:16): “She probably was doing it for the… in order to vote for herself for homecoming queen.”

Gary Marsh confronts Laura with evidence of unauthorized access to over 300 student accounts, insinuating that either Laura or Emily could be responsible.

Gary Marsh (15:15): “That’s the key to their case.”

Legal Proceedings and Defense Efforts (14:01 - 28:39)

The investigation intensifies as the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) steps in, conducting an exhaustive review involving cell tower data, internet records, and numerous interviews. Laura and Emily face escalating charges, leading to their arrest and the involvement of Randy Etheridge, a seasoned criminal defense attorney.

Randy Etheridge (18:00): “This is the most bizarre case I’ve ever had.”

Despite initial hopes for a swift resolution, the case becomes a national media sensation, scrutinizing every aspect of Laura and Emily's actions. Their attempts to defend themselves falter as public opinion sways against them.

Media Frenzy and Community Reaction (22:01 - 33:02)

The scandal gains widespread attention, reinforcing stereotypes about Florida’s penchant for sensational news. Interviews with Chris Crawford, another attorney, and Gabe Ferguson reveal the community’s mixed reactions, ranging from amusement to outrage over perceived invasions of privacy.

Rajeev Gola (32:11): “To outsiders, this case seemed to confirm stereotypes of a sleazy backward south.”

The relentless media coverage exacerbates the situation, putting immense pressure on the legal process and the individuals involved.

Aftermath and Resolutions (34:19 - 35:57)

Ultimately, Emily Grover’s charges are dismissed after Randy Etheridge secures a pretrial intervention program for her, allowing her to avoid conviction. However, the repercussions linger as Emily is expelled from school, disrupting her senior year and personal life.

Laura Carroll faces a more severe consequence, pleading no contest to a felony charge and receiving probation, although she disputes the validity of the initial admissions made during the investigation.

Randy Etheridge (34:40): “She didn’t do a damn thing, in my opinion… there’s no doubt that she had absolutely nothing to do with this whatsoever.”

Conclusion

The episode wraps up by reflecting on the irony that Emily would have likely won the election regardless of fraudulent votes, highlighting the often arbitrary nature of high school politics. Despite legal exonerations, both Laura and Emily endure lasting impacts on their reputations and futures.

Rajeev Gola (35:57): “After everything that came out of the small town scandal, the arrest, the felony charges, the media whirlwind… the biggest irony… Emily could very well have won the homecoming election even if a single fraudulent vote had never been cast.”

Notable Quotes

• Steve Buscemi (00:00): “These roles often go uncelebrated and live in the shadow of the leading characters.”

• Gabe Ferguson (07:41): “She was friends with a lot of people, but, like, it was kind of like a mean girl situation.”

• Gary Marsh (14:16): “She probably was doing it for the… in order to vote for herself for homecoming queen.”

• Randy Etheridge (18:00): “This is the most bizarre case I’ve ever had.”

• Rajeev Gola (32:11): “To outsiders, this case seemed to confirm stereotypes of a sleazy backward south.”

• Randy Etheridge (34:40): “She didn’t do a damn thing, in my opinion… there’s no doubt that she had absolutely nothing to do with this whatsoever.”

Final Thoughts

"The Homecoming Queen’s Gambit" serves as a compelling exploration of ambition gone awry, the complexities of familial relationships, and the destructive power of public scrutiny. Through meticulous storytelling and candid interviews, Big Time offers listeners a profound look into how seemingly small actions can spiral into life-altering events.

Stay Tuned

Join Big Time next week as Steve Buscemi uncovers another enthralling story of audacious crimes and the characters behind them. Follow and listen on Apple Podcasts at apple.co/BigTimePod.