Episode Summary: Introducing: Blink - Jake Haendel’s Story. Heroin, Secrets. Deadly Betrayal
Podcast: Scams, Money, & Murder
Host: Nicole Lapin
Episode: Introducing: Blink - Jake Haendel’s Story. Heroin, Secrets. Deadly Betrayal
Release Date: April 17, 2025
In this compelling episode of Scams, Money, & Murder, host Nicole Lapin introduces a special collaboration with the newly launched podcast Blink, hosted by Corinne Vien and Jake Handel. The episode delves deep into Jake Haendel’s harrowing journey through addiction, deception, and a life-altering diagnosis, painting a vivid picture of survival against all odds.
Introduction to Blink and Setting the Stage
Nicole Lapin begins by announcing the rebranding of her show from Money Crimes to Scams, Money, & Murder, promising deeper dives into financial crimes and insightful conversations with experts and survivors alike.
“Scams, Money and Murder is a Crime House original powered by Pave Studios. You can find it everywhere you get your podcasts.”
— Nicole Lapin [00:01]
Vanessa from Crime House introduces Blink, highlighting its focus on mature and intense topics such as drug use, sexual assault, and violence, ensuring listeners are prepared for the heavy content ahead.
“Blink is intended for mature audiences as it discusses topics that can be upsetting such as drug use, sexual assault, and emotional and physical violence.”
— Corinne Vien [00:50]
Jake Haendel’s Encounter and Arrest
The narrative shifts to Jake Handel’s personal story, beginning with his unexpected encounter with Corinne Vien. They reminisce about their first meeting and how Jake, despite his struggles, appeared remarkably stable.
“After helping him to his apartment and Jake repeating that I saved him, which is certainly a hyperbole, we parted ways.”
— Corinne Vien [05:15]
Jake recounts his deteriorating condition leading up to his arrest. His impaired driving while under the influence of heroin culminates in a tense traffic stop where his lack of motor control alarms the police.
“I kept Swerving, and I'm like, God, what's wrong with you?”
— Jake Handel [08:36]
During the stop, Jake’s inability to control his actions escalates the situation, resulting in his apprehension by multiple officers.
“I get ripped out of the car by like six cops and like thrown on the ground and handcuffed.”
— Jake Handel [12:12]
The Shocking Diagnosis
Following his arrest, Jake experiences a medical emergency that leads to a devastating diagnosis. While attempting to smoke heroin in the hospital, his body fails him, revealing he is suffering from acute toxic progressive leukoencephalopathy—a rare and fatal brain disease caused by toxin inhalation, in his case, heroin.
“You have something called acute toxic progressive leukoencephalopathy... month one, you won't be able to walk. Month two, you'll have a difficult time sitting.”
— Jake Handel [26:00]
The doctors inform him that his condition is terminal, giving him six months to live. This revelation forces Jake to confront his mortality and the consequences of his addiction.
Strained Relationships and Personal Struggles
Jake’s relationships become strained under the weight of his diagnosis and addiction. His wife, already aware of his struggles, becomes increasingly concerned as Jake’s condition worsens. Despite her initial support, the realization of Jake’s dire state leads to emotional turmoil and eventual separation.
“I really fucked up. And I'm just thinking about, you know, where I went wrong in life...”
— Jake Handel [26:00]
His ex-girlfriend Adrian appears as a pivotal character offering Jake a semblance of support, yet her involvement hints at deeper, more complex dynamics that contribute to Jake’s tumultuous journey.
“She really was the best at this. For a while, I may have been blinded by the love I had for her.”
— Jake Handel [36:35]
The Turning Point
Faced with limited time, Jake decides to fight his condition by ceasing drug use, hoping to prolong his life. His determination marks a significant turning point in his story, showcasing his resilience and desire for redemption.
“This was May 25, 2017, Memorial Day weekend, to just, you know, fight and not get high.”
— Jake Handel [33:08]
Despite his efforts, Jake's health continues to decline, leading to his transfer to a rehabilitation center where he confronts both his physical and emotional battles.
Conclusion and Ongoing Struggles
As Jake navigates his final months, he grapples with trust issues and the complexities of his relationships. The episode leaves listeners on the edge, anticipating how Jake will manage his remaining time and the secrets that may come to light.
“She was totally different, positive. She got so into trying to figure out the best things for me, like, strategies with ways to take care of me and experimental treatments.”
— Jake Handel [36:32]
Notable Quotes
-
“Imagine being told you have six months to live... the scariest thing in your room is no longer the potential of dying, but rather the person sitting right next to you.”
— Corinne Vien [02:57] -
“I really fucked up. And I'm just thinking about... I really, really screwed up and not the way I thought my life was headed.”
— Jake Handel [26:00]
Insights and Reflections
Jake Haendel’s story is a poignant exploration of addiction, its devastating impact on personal relationships, and the fragile line between life and death. The episode underscores the hidden struggles of high-functioning individuals battling substance abuse, revealing the often unseen pain and conflicts that accompany addiction. It also raises critical questions about trust, the capacity for change, and the pursuit of redemption in the face of overwhelming odds.
Conclusion
Scams, Money, & Murder effectively brings to light Jake Haendel’s tumultuous journey, blending personal narrative with broader themes of addiction and survival. Through insightful storytelling and emotional depth, the episode offers listeners a gripping account of resilience amidst chaos, encouraging a deeper understanding of the human condition in the shadows of financial crime and personal downfall.
Follow Us:
For more content, follow Crime House Studios on Instagram and TikTok.
Subscribe:
Find Scams, Money, & Murder wherever you get your podcasts.