Podcast Summary: Scamfluencers – Episode: "We Came to the Forest"

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "We Came to the Forest," hosted by Matthew Scher under Wondery's "Scamfluencers" series, listeners are taken deep into the heart of Atlanta's wilderness to unravel a harrowing tale of activism, deception, and tragedy. This episode delves into the fatal confrontation between passionate activists and determined law enforcement, shedding light on the complexities that often lurk beneath seemingly straightforward narratives.

Setting the Scene: Vienna Forrest's Struggle

The episode begins by introducing Vienna Forrest, an activist grappling with personal hardships. On a chilly January evening, Vienna decides to rekindle her spirits by going on a date with her partner, Tortuguita—Spanish for "little turtle." Vienna shares:

[01:48] Vienna Forrest: "And we went to get Vietnamese and Mexican food, just got a whole buffet. It was and Tortuguita is like at their peak. They're just so happy. They quit cigarettes. They were just really doing good."

This moment paints a picture of a couple seeking normalcy amidst Vienna's turbulent month, highlighting their efforts to rebuild and find solace together.

A Night at the Starlight Drive-In

Later that evening, Vienna and Tortuguita, accompanied by two friends, visit the iconic Starlight movie theater—one of Atlanta's last remaining drive-ins. Vienna recounts their playful attempt to save on tickets by hiding under a blanket:

[02:21] Vienna Forrest: "Me and Torte, to save on tickets, hid under a blanket and the person manning the gate caught us. They're like, next time tell your friends to hide their legs better because Torte's legs were sticking out from under the blanket. But they let us go through."

The couple enjoys the movie "Megan," a horror film about an overprotective, malignant doll reminiscent of Chucky. Vienna reflects on the film's impact:

[02:57] Matthew Scher: "The film that night at the Starlight is Megan, the one about the overprotective, malignant doll."

As the night progresses, Vienna observes a sense of unwavering resolve in Tortuguita:

[03:17] Vienna Forrest: "Watching them, they seem like they didn't have care in the world. Or at least they didn't show it. They had this sort of resolve about things and they just. It seemed like they were just ready for whatever was to come."

The Tragic Confrontation

Approximately 36 hours after their peaceful evening, the narrative takes a dark turn. A joint task force comprising officers from multiple agencies conducts a sweep through a nearby forest. Their mission: to displace activists protesting the construction of a massive police training facility. The tension among the officers is palpable, heightened by warnings of potential booby traps and improvised explosive devices.

As the officers methodically pack up vacant tents, an unsettling calm pervades until a sudden escalation occurs:

[04:27] Vienna Forrest: "Sir, quick question. Can you get the fuck out, please?"

Matthew Scher describes the moment:

[04:34] Matthew Scher: "There's some more laughter and then everything just kind of shatters open."

Chaos ensues as gunfire erupts. Vienna reacts with alarm and confusion:

[04:42] Vienna Forrest: "Oh, shit. Is this target practice?"

The officers, now on high alert, respond to the threat:

[05:02] Matthew Scher: "The mood now is adrenalized. Sharp edged, the squadron of cops begin to move towards the sound of the gunfire."

A fleeting transmission over the radio adds to the tension:

[05:23] Vienna Forrest: "That sounded like suppressed gun lines."

Unveiling the Hidden Truths

As the dust settles, the true extent of the tragedy becomes evident. Vienna's life is irrevocably changed by the events that transpired in the forest. Through exclusive recordings and eyewitness accounts, the episode peels back layers of secrecy, revealing a tangled web of conflicting testimonies and missing evidence. The investigation uncovers:

• Conflicting Narratives: Discrepancies between activist accounts and official statements raise questions about the authenticity of the events.

• Hidden Agendas: The motivations of both the activists and law enforcement officials are scrutinized, suggesting underlying agendas that may have contributed to the escalation.

• Impact on the Community: The confrontation leaves lasting scars on the community, fostering distrust and division.

Insights and Reflections

"We Came to the Forest" challenges listeners to reconsider their perceptions of justice and activism. The episode probes deeper into why such confrontations occur and how individuals and institutions navigate the fine line between protest and provocation. Key insights include:

• The Power of Influence: Highlighting how influential voices—like those of activists—can shape public opinion and incite significant actions, sometimes leading to unforeseen consequences.

• Culture of Secrecy: Exploring how institutional secrecy can obscure the truth, allowing harmful actions to go unchecked.

• Personal Stakes: Emphasizing the personal toll on individuals like Vienna, who find themselves at the intersection of larger societal conflicts.

Conclusion

Matthew Scher's "We Came to the Forest" masterfully intertwines personal narratives with broader societal issues, offering a nuanced exploration of a tragic event that serves as a microcosm for larger themes of activism, authority, and truth. Through meticulous storytelling and compelling firsthand accounts, the episode invites listeners to question the narratives presented to them and consider the intricate dynamics that drive such high-stakes confrontations.

Notable Quotes

• Vienna Forrest [01:48]: "And we went to get Vietnamese and Mexican food, just got a whole buffet. It was and Tortuguita is like at their peak. They're just so happy. They quit cigarettes. They were just really doing good."

• Vienna Forrest [04:27]: "Sir, quick question. Can you get the fuck out, please?"

• Vienna Forrest [05:23]: "That sounded like suppressed gun lines."

• Vienna Forrest [03:17]: "Watching them, they seem like they didn't have care in the world. Or at least they didn't show it. They had this sort of resolve about things and they just. It seemed like they were just ready for whatever was to come."

Listening Information

To delve deeper into this compelling story and uncover the full breadth of the hidden truths behind the forest confrontation, listen to "We Came to the Forest" on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. For an early and ad-free experience, subscribe to Wondery+ through the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/scamfluencers now.