Podcast Summary: Lawless Planet Episode - "Listen Now: Lawless Planet"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Lawless Planet
• Host: Zach Goldbaum
• Description: Lawless Planet delves into the intricate and often dark intersections between environmental crises and criminal activities. From the lush Amazon rainforest to the heartlands of America, host Zach Goldbaum uncovers stories of murder, corporate malfeasance, and grassroots activism that collectively shape our planet's future.
• Release Date: July 28, 2025

1. Introduction to Lawless Planet

The episode begins with an evocative introduction by host Zach Goldbaum, setting the stage for a deep dive into the hidden crimes exacerbating the global climate crisis.

Notable Quote:

Zach Goldbaum [00:00]: "What if I told you the biggest crime story of our time is happening right under our noses and we're all witnesses."

Timestamp: 00:00

Goldbaum emphasizes the immediacy and proximity of environmental crimes, framing them as the "crime of the century" that demands urgent attention.

2. Case Study: The Disappearance of Larry Price Jr.

A central narrative unfolds around the mysterious disappearance of Larry Price Jr. (LJ), a prominent figure in the coal mining industry.

Narrative Highlights:

• Background: LJ Price, aged 38, is depicted as a seasoned coal mine operator with significant influence spanning from Virginia to Montana.
• Disappearance: On April 18, 2018, LJ goes missing under suspicious circumstances, raising alarms in his Appalachian hometown of Bluefield, Virginia.
• Family’s Concern: His wife, Amy Price, expresses deep anxiety and fear, highlighting LJ's recent struggles with depression and ominous remarks hinting at potential danger.

Notable Quotes:

911 Operator [01:10]: "I'm trying to figure out my husband. He's been missing for a while. I can't figure out where he is."

Timestamp: 01:10

Narrator [01:54]: "Larry Price Jr., or LJ as he's known to friends, is 38 years old, 5 10, muscular build, with a tattoo of a panther on his bicep and another of Jesus with the cross on his chest."

Timestamp: 01:54

The investigation into LJ’s disappearance uncovers unsettling connections between his business dealings in the coal industry and broader environmental and criminal activities.

3. Broader Themes: Environmental Crimes and Climate Crisis

Beyond LJ’s case, the episode explores a series of interconnected environmental crimes plaguing various regions, emphasizing the pervasive impact of these activities on both ecosystems and communities.

Narrative Elements:

• Activism and Risks: Stories of activists who face life-threatening dangers while combating environmental degradation.
• Corporate Malfeasance: Examination of how corporate leaders prioritize profit over environmental stewardship, leading to ecosystem destruction.
• Community Impact: Insights into how ordinary people are adversely affected by these environmental and criminal activities.

Notable Quotes:

Witness 1 [04:02]: "We need help out of here. We are stuck. We have caught on firearms."

Timestamp: 04:02

Witness 2 [04:16]: "Things. Accidents. There is no accident. This was 100% preventable."

Timestamp: 04:16

These testimonies highlight the tangible and often violent consequences of neglecting environmental responsibilities.

4. Professional Insights and Investigative Journey

Host Zach Goldbaum shares his experiences and motivations behind the podcast, shedding light on the intricate web of true crimes linked to the climate crisis.

Notable Quote:

Zach Goldbaum [04:32]: "I've come to realize that these are the stories about our changing planet, that we need to tell stories about people and the things we're doing to either protect the earth or destroy it."

Timestamp: 04:32

This reflection underscores the podcast’s commitment to unveiling the human stories behind environmental issues, positioning these narratives as critical components in addressing the climate crisis.

5. Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with a compelling call to action, encouraging listeners to engage with Lawless Planet for in-depth explorations of environmental crimes and their broader implications.

Notable Quote:

Zach Goldbaum [05:12]: "The crime of the century is the one being waged on our planet. The time to listen is now."

Timestamp: 05:12

Listeners are invited to subscribe and access content early and ad-free through Wondery Plus, reinforcing the importance of being informed and proactive in the fight against environmental degradation.

Key Takeaways:

• Lawless Planet serves as a critical examination of the nexus between environmental destruction and criminal activities.
• The disappearance of LJ Price Jr. exemplifies the dangerous intersections of corporate interests and environmental exploitation.
• Personal testimonies and investigative reporting highlight the real-world impacts of environmental crimes on communities and ecosystems.
• The podcast emphasizes storytelling as a powerful tool to raise awareness and drive action towards protecting the planet.

For those interested in uncovering the hidden stories behind the climate crisis and understanding the human dimensions of environmental crimes, Lawless Planet offers a compelling and thought-provoking listen.