Lawless Planet – Episode Summary: "Listen Now: Lawless Planet"
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Introduction
In the gripping premiere episode of "Lawless Planet," hosted by Zach Goldbaum and produced by Wondery, listeners are thrust into the tumultuous intersection of environmental crises and criminal activities. This episode sets the stage for a deep dive into how illicit actions are exacerbating the climate crisis, weaving personal narratives with investigative journalism to uncover the hidden threats to our planet.
The Disappearance of Larry "LJ" Price Jr. [01:01 - 04:09]
The episode opens with a real-life mystery that serves as a microcosm for the larger environmental issues discussed throughout the series.
Amy Price's Plea [01:01 - 01:11]: Amy Price reaches out in distress, saying, "I'm trying to figure out my husband. He's been missing for a while. I see him, I can't figure out where he is." (01:01)
Background of LJ Price [01:11 - 02:30]: Larry Price Jr., known as LJ, is portrayed as a significant figure in the Appalachian coal mining industry, with ventures spanning from Virginia to Montana. Amy shares concerns about LJ's recent depression and ominous statements, such as, "If something happens to me, be thankful for the years we've had together. Also, liquidate all the stuff and stay in one location." (01:35)
The Search and Revelation [02:30 - 04:09]: Police efforts intensify as LJ disappears, leading to widespread concern. A pivotal moment occurs when LJ is found nearly 24 hours later, alive but clearly troubled. This event triggers a cascade of events that expose deep-seated corruption within one of the country's largest coal mines.
Environmental Crimes and Corporate Corruption [04:12 - 05:13]
Zach Goldbaum expands the narrative beyond LJ's personal story to highlight systemic issues impacting the environment.
Amy Price's Desperation [03:48 - 04:04]: Amy expresses the dire situation faced by her community: "From coast to coast, people are fleeing flames, wind, and water. We need help out of here. We are stuck." (03:48) Her concerns about safety and environmental degradation are palpable as she questions, "Are we really safe? Is our water safe?" (04:02)
Corporate Malfeasance [04:04 - 04:12]: The narrator confronts the culprits responsible for environmental destruction: "You destroyed our town. We call things accidents." (04:04) Amy insists, "There is no accident." (04:07), underscoring the intentional harm caused by corporate entities.
Zach's Personal Encounter [04:12 - 05:13]: Zach shares a harrowing experience witnessing the aftermath of environmental neglect: "I could tell I was floating in oil, and I remember looking under the rig and seeing the water on fire. And I thought, what have you done?" (04:12). He connects these incidents to a broader pattern of environmental crimes, from activists facing violence to illegal mining operations threatening ecosystems.
Broader Implications and Call to Action [05:13 - End]
Zach Goldbaum emphasizes the urgency of addressing these environmental crimes, framing them as the "crime of the century" that jeopardizes the planet's future.
Zach's Reflection [05:02 - 05:13]: “The crime of the century is the one being waged on our planet. And the time to listen is now.” (05:02) He advocates for storytelling that highlights both the protective and destructive actions impacting Earth, urging listeners to recognize and combat the forces endangering the environment.
Notable Quotes
- Amy Price: "Are we really safe? Is our water safe?" (04:02)
- Narrator: "You destroyed our town. We call things accidents." (04:04)
- Amy Price: "There is no accident." (04:07)
- Zach Goldbaum: "I could tell I was floating in oil, and I remember looking under the rig and seeing the water on fire. And I thought, what have you done?" (04:13)
- Zach Goldbaum: “The crime of the century is the one being waged on our planet. And the time to listen is now.” (05:02)
Conclusion
The inaugural episode of "Lawless Planet" masterfully intertwines personal tragedy with systemic environmental injustices, setting a compelling tone for the series. By spotlighting individual stories like that of LJ Price and broader criminal activities affecting the environment, Zach Goldbaum invites listeners to engage with the urgent and often hidden battles shaping our planet's future. This episode not only informs but also calls to action, emphasizing the critical need for awareness and intervention in the face of escalating environmental crimes.
Follow "Lawless Planet" on the Wondery App or your preferred podcast platform to stay informed about the ongoing struggles and stories that are shaping our planet's destiny.