Podcast Summary: Scam Goddess – "Scams Hitting the Slopes" with Sam Sanders
Episode Details:
- Podcast: Scam Goddess
- Host: Laci Mosley (aka Scam Goddess)
- Guest: Sam Sanders
- Episode Title: Scams Hitting the Slopes w/ Sam Sanders
- Release Date: February 4, 2025
Introduction to the Episode
[01:00] Laci Mosley kicks off the episode by setting the stage for an in-depth exploration of scams, robberies, and fraudulent activities, specifically targeting the ski industry. She emphasizes the podcast's unique blend of true crime and comedy, promising listeners a blend of insightful breakdowns and humorous commentary.
Introducing the Guest: Sam Sanders
[01:13] Laci introduces Sam Sanders, a seasoned journalist with a history of insightful and entertaining discussions. She highlights their previous collaborations, including a live show at the Ford Theater and episodes of her TV show Scamgods on Bishop More Whitehead.
Notable Quote:
- Laci Mosley: "Sometimes we love them, sometimes we hate them. Again, I will rem." — [01:09]
The Saga of J Peak Resort
Background of J Peak
[18:16] Laci delves into the history of J Peak, a ski resort in Vermont, established in 1957. Initially a beloved spot among hardcore skiers known for its deep snow and challenging slopes, J Peak struggled with outdated amenities and financial instability in its early years.
Notable Quote:
- Sam Sanders: "Skiing is just a world that I'll never know about." — [17:01]
The Role of Bill Stanger and Ariel Kiros
[22:54] In 1984, Bill Stanger, the resort's general manager, brings in Ariel Kiros, an ambitious entrepreneur aiming to transform J Peak into a year-round destination using the EB5 visa program. This program attracts foreign investors by offering green cards in exchange for significant financial investments intended to create American jobs.
Notable Quote:
- Laci Mosley: "If you are rich and not from America, if you promise to invest in a business that puts jobs in rural America, you can just cut the line." — [26:45]
The Fraudulent Scheme Unfolds
[32:52] Bill ambitiously raises $350 million through the EB5 program, promising to create 10,000 jobs and revamp the resort. However, Ariel uses $200 million of these funds for personal luxuries, including a condo at Trump Place in New York, and funnels the rest through shell companies. Sam and Laci dissect how Ariel manipulates financial systems to siphon funds, highlighting the sophisticated nature of the scam.
Notable Quotes:
- Laci Mosley: "Ariel used 13.5 million of Bill's scammer green card money to make the initial payment to purchase the resort from the owner." — [46:50]
- Sam Sanders: "He moved the money to say that it was his and then paid it." — [43:54]
SEC Intervention and Legal Consequences
[64:07] Eight years post-investment, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) raids J Peak Resort, uncovering the massive fraud. Ariel pleads guilty to charges including wire fraud, money laundering, and obstruction, while Bill serves nine months in prison and is banned from the EB5 program for life.
Notable Quotes:
- Laci Mosley: "The SEC don't come in because they give a fuck about morals. They're coming in because they're seasoned. That's just a cute word for government theft." — [66:09]
- Sam Sanders: "He ain't gonna get that much. Cause he's rich already. Two?" — [69:46]
Broader Implications on the Ski Industry
[75:00] The discussion broadens to critique the inherent dangers and exclusive nature of skiing. Laci and Sam humorously label skiing as a "scam," pointing out the high costs, lack of safety measures like seat belts on ski lifts, and the industry's exclusionary practices that favor the wealthy.
Notable Quotes:
- Sam Sanders: "Skiing is a scam. Come on. What y'all doing?" — [75:00]
- Laci Mosley: "The last time that I looked this up, they were on so, like, the ski lift lines were so long because they were like, anybody can do this." — [75:28]
Humorous Banter and Side Stories
Throughout the episode, Laci and Sam engage in lively and humorous exchanges, touching on various side topics such as:
-
Efforts to Scam Within the Podcast: They joke about creating their own scam ventures, complete with pitch decks and fake business plans.
Notable Quote:
- Sam Sanders: "If I have access to half a billion dollars, I'd stop. I'd be like, no, I'm good." — [60:38]
-
Personal Anecdotes: They share personal stories and playful banter about everyday scams and humorous mishaps.
Promotional Segments
[17:01], [82:33] Towards the end, the episode includes promotional segments for related shows and products:
- Sam Sanders' New Show: An upcoming episode honoring Grammy Weekend, featuring interviews with prominent vocal coaches.
- Laci’s Other Projects: Promotion of her book Scam Goddess, TV show Scamga Goddesses, and the upcoming Scam Goddess TV show on Freeform and Hulu.
Notable Quote:
- Laci Mosley: "Stay scheming." — [83:17]
Conclusion
[83:42] Laci wraps up the episode with final thoughts on the pervasive nature of scams in various industries, emphasizing the importance of awareness and skepticism. She reinforces the comedic yet informative tone of the podcast, encouraging listeners to stay vigilant and entertained.
Notable Quote:
- Laci Mosley: "Scams are now hitting the slopes. So, stay scheming." — [83:17]
Key Takeaways:
- Sophistication of Modern Scams: The J Peak Resort fraud showcases how intricate and large-scale scams can be, especially when intertwined with legitimate investment programs like EB5 visas.
- Regulatory Oversight: The role of the SEC highlights the importance of regulatory bodies in uncovering and addressing financial frauds.
- Industry Vulnerabilities: Sectors like the ski industry can be fertile ground for scams due to high investments and limited regulatory scrutiny.
- Cultural Commentary: Through humor, the episode critiques societal norms and exclusive practices within affluent activities such as skiing.
- Comedic Relief in True Crime: Laci and Sam effectively blend humor with serious discussions, making complex fraudulent schemes accessible and entertaining.
Notable Quotes Recap:
- Laci Mosley: "Sometimes we love them, sometimes we hate them." — [01:09]
- Sam Sanders: "Skiing is a scam. Come on. What y'all doing?" — [75:00]
- Laci Mosley: "The SEC don't come in because they give a fuck about morals. They're coming in because they're seasoned." — [66:09]
- Sam Sanders: "He moved the money to say that it was his and then paid it." — [43:54]
- Laci Mosley: "Stay scheming." — [83:17]
This episode of Scam Goddess offers a compelling mix of true crime storytelling, insightful analysis of financial frauds, and the signature comedic flair that makes the podcast both entertaining and informative. Whether you're a true crime aficionado or simply enjoy a good scam story with laughs, this episode delivers on all fronts.
Stay tuned for more episodes every Tuesday and catch classic re-releases every Friday. Don't forget to watch the Scam Goddess TV show premiering on Freeform and Hulu on January 15th!