Empire City: The Untold Origin Story of the NYPD
Episode: Something Was Wrong
Release Date: January 13, 2025
Host: Wondery | Crooked Media

Introduction

In the episode titled "Something Was Wrong," hosted by Wondery and Crooked Media, listeners are taken on a gripping journey into the dark side of human deception and its profound impact on victims. This episode delves into the intricate web woven by Megan Stoner, a con artist whose fraudulent activities have left numerous lives shattered across the United States and Canada. Through personal accounts, recorded conversations, and expert insights, the episode uncovers the layers of manipulation and the relentless pursuit of justice by those wronged.

Unveiling Megan Stoner's Deception

The episode opens with Tiffany Reese introducing the story of Megan Stoner, painting a picture of a young woman seemingly dedicated to mental health advocacy and political activism. Reese immediately hints at the facade Megan has maintained, setting the stage for a narrative filled with betrayal and cunning.

Tiffany Reese [00:00]: "What if I told you it was all an elaborate lie?"

As the story unfolds, listeners learn about Megan's extensive history of scams, including fake rentals and stolen identities. Reese emphasizes the depth of Megan's deception, revealing how her actions have disrupted countless lives.

Confrontation and Truth

A pivotal moment in the episode features a recorded phone conversation between Lissa and Megan Stoner. This exchange serves as a raw and unfiltered glimpse into Megan's current state and the consequences of her actions.

Megan Stoner [01:37]: "Hey, I was just really curious. I heard about this podcast. I was just really curious how it's going."

Lissa responds with a mix of professionalism and personal resolve, clearly frustrated by Megan's attempts to elicit attention.

Lissa [02:29]: "I lost my dad to suicide. And then shortly after that, the guy that I was with had an affair and had a baby with another woman. So I've recently moved out with just my kids, my life."

This segment highlights the emotional toll Megan's actions have taken on those around her, particularly Lissa, who has suffered personal losses partly due to Megan's deceit.

Legal and Personal Ramifications

The conversation intensifies as Lissa confronts Megan about her lack of accountability and the ongoing legal issues surrounding the Mason Motors case.

Megan Stoner [03:08]: "Oh, okay. Yeah. Hey, has anyone else anything about a court date for the Mason Motors case?"

Lissa's response is unequivocal, underscoring her determination to see Megan face the consequences.

Lissa [03:18]: "Megan, I am not willing to give you any information about anything. Like, you should definitely speak to your lawyer if you have one."

Lissa elaborates on her efforts to support Tiffany Reese's podcast, which aims to amplify the voices of Megan's victims and ensure their stories receive the attention they deserve.

Lissa [04:00]: "I put so much effort into making sure that your victims' voices were heard. And that's why I reached out and started this process with her..."

Emotional Climax and Resolution

The conversation reaches an emotional crescendo as Lissa reveals her unyielding stance against Megan's attempts at manipulation and the measures she's taken to protect her and others from further harm.

Lissa [05:00]: "I have everything I could ever need to expose you to people. And that's exactly what I'm doing and what I've wanted to do all along."

Lissa's unwavering resolve serves as a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of those affected by Megan's actions. Her final words leave no room for doubt about her commitment to justice and the dismantling of Megan's fraudulent endeavors.

Lissa [06:00]: "This is the last time you will ever speak to me."

Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with Tiffany Reese encouraging listeners to engage with the full season of "Something Was Wrong," highlighting the importance of awareness and community support in combating fraud and deception.

Tiffany Reese [06:19]: "Binge season 22 of Something Was Wrong ad free on Wondery plus. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery app or on Apple Podcasts."

Key Takeaways

• Complexity of Deception: Megan Stoner represents a sophisticated level of fraud, utilizing multiple schemes to deceive and exploit individuals across North America.

• Impact on Victims: The episode underscores the profound personal and emotional toll that scams inflict on victims, as exemplified by Lissa's experiences.

• Pursuit of Justice: Through Lissa's relentless efforts and collaboration with Tiffany Reese, the narrative emphasizes the importance of giving victims a platform and ensuring their stories are heard.

• Awareness and Vigilance: The story serves as a cautionary tale about the necessity of vigilance in the digital age, where deception can easily thrive.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Tiffany Reese [00:00]: "What if I told you it was all an elaborate lie?"

• Megan Stoner [01:37]: "Hey, I was just really curious. I heard about this podcast. I was just really curious how it's going."

• Lissa [03:18]: "Megan, I am not willing to give you any information about anything. Like, you should definitely speak to your lawyer if you have one."

• Lissa [05:00]: "I have everything I could ever need to expose you to people. And that's exactly what I'm doing and what I've wanted to do all along."

• Lissa [06:00]: "This is the last time you will ever speak to me."

Final Thoughts

"Something Was Wrong" is a compelling episode that sheds light on the dark underbelly of deceit within society. Through meticulous storytelling and emotional depth, the episode not only exposes Megan Stoner's fraudulent activities but also honors the resilience of her victims. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of trust, the dangers of deception, and the ongoing fight for justice in an increasingly complex world.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the narratives shared and remain vigilant in their personal and digital interactions, fostering a community that prioritizes authenticity and accountability.