Rotten Mango Podcast Episode #405: "Man From Viral TikTok Looks Exactly Like Missing Husband- Did He Fake His Own Death For Another Girl"

Release Date: December 4, 2024
Hosts: Stephanie Soo & Ramble

Introduction

In Episode #405 of Rotten Mango, hosts Stephanie Soo and Ramble delve into a perplexing true crime story intertwined with the phenomenon of "passport bros." The episode unpacks the mysterious disappearance of Ryan Borgwart, a family man presumed dead after a kayaking accident, only to reappear alive amidst viral TikTok intrigue.

The Disappearance and Viral TikTok

The episode begins by recounting Ryan Borgwart’s sudden disappearance in August 2024. Ryan, a resident of Wisconsin, was last seen kayaking on Green Lake, the state's deepest lake. His kayak was found overturned, and his car nearby lacked any signs of his presence.

Host Ramble introduces a coincidental connection to a viral TikTok video featuring a man named Bailey in San Diego. In the video (filmed in June 2024), Bailey asks passersby for life-altering advice, specifically whether a man should move to Uzbekistan to find a companion, hinting at personal turmoil and an empty nest.

[03:27] Host Ramble: "Do I just uproot my life and move to the other side of the country? Yeah."

The eerie similarity between this TikTok man and Ryan raises suspicions among netizens and the podcast hosts about a potential link between Ryan's disappearance and the viral video.

Investigation and Suspicion of Faked Death

Sheriff Mike Padal leads the investigation into Ryan’s disappearance. Initial searches suggest Ryan likely drowned due to the overturned kayak in the deep, murky waters of Green Lake. However, the lack of a body and other inconsistencies prompt further scrutiny.

Keith, head of the nonprofit Bruce's Legacy, which specializes in search and recovery operations for drowning victims, expresses frustration over the extensive resources spent without success.

[20:29] Host Ramble: "Wait, so this is 50 days later?"

The plot thickens when Sheriff Padal runs Ryan’s name and discovers his passport entered Canada shortly after his disappearance—a glaring anomaly.

[20:47] Host Ramble: "Then how did he pass?"

Further investigations reveal altered digital footprints: Ryan had installed a new email, transferred funds to a foreign account, and communicated with a woman from Uzbekistan. These revelations strongly suggest Ryan orchestrated his own disappearance.

The "Passport Bros" Phenomenon

Stephanie Soo and Ramble segue into a broader discussion about "passport bros"—men who travel abroad seeking romantic relationships, often linked with cultural stereotypes and controversial motivations. The term "LBH" (Losers Back Home) is mentioned as a derogatory label applied to these men.

[25:35] Host Ramble: "No. People like to call passport bros lbh."

The hosts explore the motivations behind such behaviors, including dissatisfaction with local dating environments and the pursuit of traditional or exotic partners abroad. This ties back to Ryan’s reported interactions with individuals from Uzbekistan, suggesting his disappearance may be motivated by similar desires.

Several netizen quotes illustrate the negative perceptions of passport bros, highlighting issues like exploitation, cultural insensitivity, and unrealistic expectations.

[27:44] Host Ramble: "Oh, that's great."

Public and Legal Reactions

As the investigation progresses, the community and online audience weigh in with polarized opinions. Some sympathize with Ryan’s possible quest for happiness, while others condemn his actions for the emotional and financial turmoil inflicted on his family.

Sheriff Padal emphasizes that faking one’s death, while emotionally devastating, can lead to legal consequences such as obstruction of justice and insurance fraud. However, the actual legal repercussions may be minimal unless further fraudulent activities are uncovered.

[56:07] Host Ramble: "Right, Right. Right."

The podcast highlights the complexity of Ryan’s case, where the act of faking a death intersects with societal expectations, personal freedom, and the ethics of escapism.

Resolution and Ryan’s Proof of Life

In a surprising turn, Ryan sends a "proof of life" video, confirming he is alive and residing in an unspecified Eastern European country. The video bears striking similarities to the earlier TikTok, further fueling speculation about his intentions and identity.

[40:17] Host Ramble: "He sends in a proof of life video."

Despite this confirmation, Ryan's exact whereabouts remain unknown, and Sheriff Padal expresses hope for his safe return, urging Ryan to reconnect with his family.

Public Sentiment and Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with a deep dive into public reactions—ranging from anger and disappointment towards Ryan to critical views on the "passport bros" culture. Listeners are left contemplating the ramifications of Ryan’s actions on his family and the broader societal implications.

[63:52] Host Ramble: "You think the TikTok played a role in this case or no?"

The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on the psychological and emotional dimensions of faking one’s death and the pursuit of personal happiness at the expense of familial bonds.

Notable Quotes

• [03:27] Host Ramble: "Do I just uproot my life and move to the other side of the country? Yeah."

• [20:47] Host Ramble: "Then how did he pass?"

• [25:35] Host Ramble: "No. People like to call passport bros lbh."

• [56:07] Host Ramble: "Right, Right. Right."

• [40:17] Host Ramble: "He sends in a proof of life video."

• [63:52] Host Ramble: "You think the TikTok played a role in this case or no?"

Conclusion

Episode #405 of Rotten Mango intricately weaves a narrative of mystery, online influence, and personal desperation. Through meticulous storytelling and analysis, Stephanie Soo and Ramble shed light on the unsettling possibility that Ryan Borgwart may have orchestrated his own disappearance to pursue happiness elsewhere, leaving a trail of emotional devastation and societal questions in his wake.

Listeners are left pondering the ethical boundaries of personal freedom, the impact of digital identities on real-life actions, and the intricate web of motivations that drive individuals to such extreme measures.

For more detailed discussions and full show notes, visit roottenmangopodcast.com.