Scam Goddess Podcast Summary
Episode: Grifting Graceland
Guest: Ronald Young Jr.
Release Date: April 8, 2025
Hosts: Laci Mosley (Scam Goddess) and Ronald Young Jr.
Platform: Earwolf & Scam Goddess TV Show on Freeform and Hulu
Introduction of the Guest
[02:44] Laci Mosley:
Laci Mosley opens the episode by enthusiastically welcoming Ronald Young Jr., an award-winning podcast host, producer, and storyteller. Ronald is known for his work on Pop Culture Debate Club and Wait for It, and he’s gearing up for season three of his latter podcast. Laci sets the stage for an engaging discussion on fraud and scamming, emphasizing the comedic yet informative nature of the show.
"Today on the pod we have an award-winning podcast host... We're still waiting to see, like, what the impact of that is going to look like..." [03:30]
Personal Experiences with Scams
[03:30 - 06:01] Ronald Young Jr. on Electric Bill Scam:
Ronald shares his personal encounter with a scammer posing as his electric company. After falling a few days behind on his bill, he received a fraudulent call demanding payment through unconventional means due to a supposedly malfunctioning website. Despite the scammer's persistence in altering the owed amount and insisting on payment via phone check, Ronald's skepticism prevented him from falling victim.
“I think a day before, I actually thought to go in and pay it. But in that day, I get a call from the electric company...” [04:04]
“And the alarm bells start ringing in my head. And I'm like, wait, I don't. If the website says this amount, I'm not gonna pay you twice...” [05:37]
[05:58 - 06:42] Discussion on Scam Tactics:
Laci and Ronald discuss the typical tactics scammers use to intimidate victims, such as urgent language, fake stamps, and impersonation of higher authorities like managers. They highlight the absurdity and illogic in these approaches, emphasizing the importance of vigilance.
“They printed it out so it looked like it was stamped... but it's easier for you to print it out. Cause that's cheaper.” [06:30]
Historic Hoodwinks: The Grifting of Graceland
[17:22 - 27:00] Overview of the Graceland Scam:
Laci introduces the segment "Historic Hoodwinks," focusing on a sophisticated scam targeting Graceland, Elvis Presley's iconic estate. Lisa Janine Findley, under various aliases, attempted to seize Graceland by forging loan documents and claiming ownership through fraudulent foreclosure efforts.
“She got a PO Box in a legitimate place that looks like it could be near Graceland... she has these PO Boxes, she's using all these fake names...” [25:34]
Detailed Breakdown:
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Targeting Graceland:
- Graceland, established as Elvis Presley's estate and a historic landmark, becomes the focal point of the scam.
- The scammer, Lisa Janine Findley, applies for multiple PO Boxes under different names to create a semblance of legitimacy.
“...she applied for a PO Box using the name Lisa Holden. She has also used other names like Lisa Hauer or Lisa Janine Sullins.” [22:16]
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Forged Documents and Foreclosure Threats:
- Findley fabricated a false creditors' claim, alleging that Lisa Marie Presley had defaulted on a $4 million loan, using Graceland as collateral.
- She sent these fraudulent documents to Riley Kehoe, Lisa Marie's attorney, threatening foreclosure.
“Kurt, AKA Lisa, said Lisa Marie Presley had taken a loan for almost $4 million... and that Graceland was the collateral.” [25:58]
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Execution of the Scam:
- Utilizing Tennessee's lenient foreclosure laws, Findley expedited the forced sale process by publicly advertising the foreclosure in local newspapers without judicial oversight.
- The scam included strategic timing, coinciding with high-profile events and exploiting public interest in Elvis Presley.
“Foreclosure is very easy to do in Tennessee... the foreclosure sale can now only be stopped by a lawsuit filed by the original family.” [31:01]
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Detection and Legal Action:
- Riley Kehoe filed a lawsuit condemning the foreclosure as fraudulent, highlighting forged signatures and nonexistent investment companies.
- The authorities traced the scam back to Findley, who ultimately faced federal charges including identity theft and mail fraud.
“In August last year, she was arrested for the scheme and charged with identity theft and mail fraud.” [48:03]
Notable Quotes:
- Ronald Young Jr.: “I'm never gonna call y'all, so don't. Don't worry. Yes, I did forget, and I hope that you would never come back.” [05:39]
- Laci Mosley: “Y'all know when your hair kind of gets, like, greasy and. And you need to wash it...” [14:49] (Note: This quote pertains to an ad and is thus excluded from the main summary.)
- Ronald Young Jr.: “I just own it now. Like, luckily, you're going to take all my debt too, so please enjoy.” [32:27]
Analysis and Historical Comparisons
[27:00 - 45:00] Comparing Modern Scams to Historical Frauds:
Laci and Ronald draw parallels between Findley's scam and historic con artists like George C. Parker, who notoriously sold landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. They discuss the evolution of scams, noting how digital advancements have provided new avenues for fraud but also underscore the timeless nature of such deceit.
“Title pirates like Fleece follow in the historic footsteps of George C. Parker... he also sold the Statue of Liberty.” [52:33]
Discussion on Title Fraud:
- Title Pirates: Modern scammers target vacant properties, deceased estates, and rental homes by forging documents and manipulating public records to claim ownership.
- Digital Vulnerabilities: The shift to digital real estate transactions has made it easier for scammers to file fake deeds, complicating recovery efforts.
Advice on Protection:
- Vigilance with Public Records: Regularly monitor property records and remain cautious when managing estates or vacant properties.
- Secure Personal Information: Limit the sharing of familial connections and personal details on social media to prevent identity theft and related scams.
Notable Quotes:
- Laci Mosley: “It's a growing trend, but it's not a good idea and it's not a new idea.” [52:33]
- Ronald Young Jr.: “They can spoof the voices now. So it's like, man, like, you stay vigilant out there, y'all.” [56:50]
Broader Implications and Future of Scams
[45:00 - 58:50] The Future Landscape of Fraud:
The hosts discuss the adaptability of scammers in the face of technological advancements like AI and spoofing. They emphasize that as new technologies emerge, so do sophisticated methods of deceit, making it imperative for individuals to stay informed and cautious.
“Anytime we see any investments in technology, you're going to see the exact same scammers latch onto that advancement...” [56:31]
Social and Cultural Impact:
- Inequality and Scamming: The conversation touches on how societal inequities can fuel scams, with scammers targeting both the affluent and the vulnerable.
- Community Vigilance: Encouraging community members to protect one another, especially the elderly and those unfamiliar with digital security measures.
Notable Insights:
- Adaptability of Scammers: Scammers continuously evolve, exploiting new platforms and technologies to execute their schemes.
- Historical Lessons: Learning from past scams can help in identifying and preventing contemporary fraud attempts.
Notable Quotes:
- Laci Mosley: “We don't need the cops. We just need some pitchforks.” [54:49]
- Ronald Young Jr.: “The other part is, like, now I'm also thinking, and again, I don't mean to make this a dark podcast...” [55:14]
Conclusion and Takeaways
[58:50 - 62:55] Final Thoughts and Recommendations:
Laci and Ronald wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of vigilance against scams, especially those targeting real estate and high-profile estates like Graceland. They advocate for proactive measures, such as monitoring property records and securing personal information, to prevent falling victim to such fraudulent activities.
“Stay vigilant and protect your assets... Pay your bills as a stamp.” [54:30]
Key Takeaways:
- Monitor Property and Estate Records: Regular checks can help identify unauthorized changes or claims.
- Secure Personal Information: Limit the sharing of personal and familial details online to reduce vulnerability.
- Stay Informed: Understanding the evolving tactics of scammers can enhance personal and community-level defenses against fraud.
Notable Quotes:
- Laci Mosley: “We ride at dawn. Let’s Go get him.” [55:14]
- Ronald Young Jr.: “Y'all watch out for your deeds in your home.” [53:37]
Final Remarks
[62:34 - 62:55]
Laci closes the episode with acknowledgments and final promotions, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the Scam Goddess podcast and encouraging listeners to stay vigilant and informed.
“Thank you guys for your support. All set for your flight? Yep. I've got everything I need.” [61:13]
Overall, this episode of Scam Goddess provides an insightful and humorous exploration of a sophisticated real estate scam targeting Graceland, drawing on historical parallels and offering practical advice to listeners. The engaging dialogue between Laci Mosley and Ronald Young Jr. effectively highlights the complexities of modern fraud while maintaining an entertaining tone.