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Emily Simpson
This is an iHeart podcast.
Ryan Seacrest
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Emily Simpson
Hi, guys. Welcome to another episode of Legally Brunette. I will be your host today, Emily Simpson, with my sidekick, Shane. Just Shane. We want to give you a little update, first of all, on the Lively and Baldoni case. We haven't talked about it for a while because it hasn't had a lot going on. You know, they go to trial in March of 2026. However, there have been some interesting things that have happened lately. So Blake Lively has dropped the emotional distress claims against Justin Baldoni. Um, so I was reading about this yesterday, and it was actually kind of difficult to follow for me to actually put a timeline together of what happened. But here's the way I understand it. A few days ago, there was a teleconference between both sides, which is normal when you're. When you're in active litigation. Right? So you've got both sides. You've got Baldoni's team, You've got Blake Lively's team. They have a teleconference. I. I guess there was a conversation that had to do with these emotional distress claims. There's an intentional infliction of emotional distress and a negligent emotional distress claim on Blake Lively's side against Justin Baldoni. And apparently during this teleconference, there was a conversation where Lively's attorneys had suggested that they were going to drop those claims. Now, after, apparently immediately after this conference between the attorneys, Justin Baldoni's attorney, Brian Friedman, files a motion to compel her, like therapy notes or doctors.
Shane
Against who?
Emily Simpson
Against Blake Lively.
Shane
Okay.
Emily Simpson
Basically, the way I understand it is they're like, okay, we're going to drop.
Shane
Claims for her distress. Claims of distress.
Emily Simpson
She's going to drop the claims of distress. Brian Friedman then files a motion to compel, basically stating that she's dropping those claims in order to not comply with their discovery requests of medical records or therapy notes.
Shane
Because there were no medical records. That's my guess. My guess is Lively's team was like, oh, we're gonna have to provide all these medical records or. Or conversations or anything to show that.
Emily Simpson
There was some type of emotional distress. Distress.
Shane
And then they're. And they're like, okay, Lively, can. Can you start forwarding those documents? And then she's like, I never went to the doctor. I didn't do anything because I was not stressed. Yeah, I have Some texts with Taylor Swift where I was complaining, but I don't have anything else. So they were probably like, then you don't have a defense or. Or a complaint. You can't. You can't, you know, succeed on this claim.
Emily Simpson
Right. Well, then, so the judge dismisses the motion to compel. Because the judge is like, look, they said they're going to drop these claims, and they. They did dismiss them. And so why are you filing a motion to compel? And then, obviously, Blake Lively's team says the only reason that Brian Friedman filed a motion to compel was for what reason?
Shane
Well, it would be probably to get her to not comply, and then maybe publicly it would look bad.
Emily Simpson
Right. It's a he. They claim it's a press stunt.
Shane
You know, that sounds like a dumb.
Emily Simpson
Press seeking another round of press coverage.
Shane
Yeah, I don't know about that. That sounds. Because he's clearly experienced where. If the claim is dropped, why would you want to pursue discovery on a claim that's dropped?
Emily Simpson
Well, I guess his thinking was, okay, they're just trying to avoid our discovery requests, so let's do a motion to compel. But really, you know, Brian Friedman's. He's excellent at working the. The.
Shane
No, I. I know. So I'm putting my trust in him. I'm just saying, seeing the order of events, it sounds like it was poorly executed, but, you know, time will tell, and I'm sure he knows what he's doing.
Emily Simpson
So Baldon's side argued that Lively couldn't have it both ways by making claims of emotional harm, while Al also withholding supporting records like medical records. In response, Lively's attorneys dismissed the request as a publicity stunt, as reported. And this was an Entertainment Weekly. Actually, it was in an Entertainment Weekly, but then I read several other articles because everybody jumps on and starts writing about it. Also, I thought it was really interesting that Blake Lively's side consistently argues that every. Everything Brian Friedman does is a publicity stunt. But let's not. Let's not forget about the facts.
Shane
Let's not forget about Lively and Reynolds and how their lifestyle.
Emily Simpson
If we go back in time, if you remember, the original complaint filed by Blake Lively's team was on December 20, 2024, and the new York Times published a report and published the filing on December 21, 2024. So it was. It's very. I mean, it's easy to see that they colluded with the New York Times. So.
Shane
I know, isn't everything they do a publicity stunt?
Emily Simpson
I believe so. I also found it interesting that the judge, who is J. Judge Lewis J. Lyman, formally ruled that Lively's emotional distress claims were no longer part of the lawsuit. Baldon's motion to compel was denied on the grounds that Lively had already agreed to withdraw the claims.
Shane
Oh, okay. I know.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
So the agreement to drop the claims was informal.
Emily Simpson
It was the. It was on the. It was on the teleconference. So it was an informal.
Shane
So he probably thought, I'm going to file the motion compel, and I'm going to keep pursuing my defense until you actually drop it.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
So he probably filed the motion to compel to keep the momentum and the.
Emily Simpson
Pressure to make sure that they actually dismiss the claim.
Shane
I told you, I trust him.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, he's a good attorney. I told you. Anytime. If I'm ever in trouble. Who's the first call? It's quite. Brian Friedman is my first call. Judge Lyman also directed po. Both parties to reach. This is where it's going to get interesting. He directed both parties to reach a mutual agreement together on whether the dismissed claims would be permanent with prejudice, or allow for possible refiling later, which is without prejudice. Regardless, the judge made clear that Lively would not be allowed to introduce any evidence related to emotional distress going forward because the claims have been officially dropped from her filing. Lively's team responded to the ruling by calling Baldon's motion completely unnecessary and framing the court's decision as a favorable outcome for their site. They always do that. They always take every decision this judge makes and they turn it around into some favorable. Like some big win for them. So. So it's.
Shane
It's always like, so what was this big win was that it's dropped without prejudice?
Emily Simpson
No, it's. He did. He didn't. He told them that they have to figure out together whether the claims are dropped with prejudice or without. So what do you think is going to happen there? You think they're going to have.
Shane
No, they're not going to agree. Neither party's going to agree.
Emily Simpson
Neither party is going to agree to that.
Shane
Let's explain what with prejudice and without prejudice means.
Emily Simpson
Okay, so both of the em. Emotional distress claims have been dropped. However, Lively's team is going to want them dropped without prejudice. Now, you explain what that means.
Shane
I don't know what it means. No, I'm just kidding.
Emily Simpson
You do know what it means.
Shane
If it's dropped with prejudice, that's the equivalent or close to a judgment in favor of. Right. Or it's. It's as if the judge ruled on it and therefore it cannot Be brought up. It cannot be brought up without prejudice. Means it's just a procedural thing. We dropped it. But you can still pursue it at a later date if you wish.
Emily Simpson
Exactly.
Shane
Then with that case, Baldoni would want it with prejudice, so that way it cannot be brought up again.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
And then of course, Lively's team will want it without prejudice. And I think it should be without, without knowing much more. It should be without prejudice because the judge didn't review anything. Really. Not in detail, no.
Emily Simpson
But I mean, that's where, I mean, the judge is basically like, okay, you guys work it out together and figure out if it's with prejudice or without. And these, you think these two sides are going to be able. That's very black and white. This isn't a gray area where they can like compromise and come up with something.
Shane
There's no middle ground.
Emily Simpson
There's no middle ground on this. So I. Good luck with those two. Deciding with or without prejud is.
Shane
So it'll allow for another update next week.
Emily Simpson
It'll allow for more letters from Brian.
Shane
Friedman and more updates from us.
Emily Simpson
And more updates from us. All right, let's move on to Diddy. Diddy. I thought it was interesting that there was some testimony in Diddy that was interesting this week. First of all, they called Eddie Garcia to the stand, who was a security supervisor at the LA hotel where Combs attacked Cassie back in 2016. Now, Eddie Garcia receives complete immunity to testify because when you hear his testimony, he clearly was involved in bribery and obstruction of justice.
Shane
So he was offered immunity because you're thinking, well, witness should just testify. But he, if, but he committed crimes. Right. By taking a bribery and whatnot.
Emily Simpson
Yeah. I mean, so he didn't. He's going to perjure himself in federal court.
Shane
So he would just plead the fifth, which is, I, I'm not going to be able to answer these questions because it would be self incriminating.
Emily Simpson
Right.
Shane
So they're, they're saying, well, we want his testimony because we want to go for the bigger fish.
Emily Simpson
Exactly.
Shane
And so we'll grant you immunity and then you can freely speak as to what took place and keep your money.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
Is that what it is?
Emily Simpson
Keep your money? So Eddie Garcia takes a stand and testifies that he and two other employees at the H Hotel received a lump sum of $100,000 in cash from Combs and to keep the video surveillance under wraps. So this is how it worked out. First of all, he gets a phone call, I think the evening after this. This incident happened on his work Phone, and it was Diddy's assistant. Her name is Christina Coram. And she reaches out to Eddie Garcia and says, hey, like, we would like the video. And he basically tells her, the only way you can get it is you have to speak to higher than me or you have to subpoena. So she gets nowhere. Then she makes a personal visit to him at the hotel, and she wants the video. And this is all clearly under the direction of. Of Diddy. And she makes it. So she goes to the hotel.
Shane
She wants, like, the original copy to destroy it.
Emily Simpson
Yeah. So she goes to the hotel.
Shane
Like, this guy didn't make copies on his phone and show his friends.
Emily Simpson
Well, I don't know.
Shane
Hold on to it until he can pull it out.
Emily Simpson
Yeah. So she makes a purple personal visit at the hotel, speaks with Eddie Garcia, doesn't get anywhere again. And then I guess off the record, he tells her that the video is pretty bad. So then she goes back, and then later on, he gets a third phone call on his personal cell phone. I don't know how they got a cell phone number, but they got a cell phone number. Somehow she gets on the phone with him again. She puts Diddy on the phone this time, and he testifies that Diddy is nervous during this phone call. He's stuttering. He's saying, hey, man, you know, I'll take care of you. How can I get a copy of this video? I need to destroy. It's going to ruin my life, and, you know, I'll take care of you. Which he testifies that he. He understands that. I'll take care of you. As you know, I'll hook you up. I'll hook you up. I'll get you.
Shane
You're on the party list, but you're gonna. You are now a lifetime supply of baby oil for you, sir.
Emily Simpson
Yes. You get a Costco membership. Baby oil.
Shane
Costco doesn't sell baby oil. It's for free cost.
Emily Simpson
Oh, that's right. That's right. That's right. We established that. So then they meet at. So I guess. So he agrees to it, right? I guess he goes back to his boss, who Security. His boss, and says. The boss says, okay. Ask him for 50 grand. So he tells Diddy, okay, I'll give you the tape for 50 grand. He shows up at some building to meet Diddy and his assistant. And security. Security takes him up to a room. They make him sign an NDA confidentiality agreement, basically stating that there's no other videos, that it's been destroyed, that he the only one he's handing it over.
Shane
Clear. Wait. Okay, keep going.
Emily Simpson
And if he breaches this agreement, this NDA that he's signing, that he's going to, you know, be in breach for.
Shane
A million dollars, car will blow up and might kill.
Emily Simpson
I don't think that's any in writing, but I'm sure that's implied in the contract. But what is in writing is that he would owe a million dollars back. So basically it's. I mean, the guy makes $10 an hour, 1050 an hour.
Shane
So are you making that up or.
Emily Simpson
Are you really making. No, I read that. I read that he made that. He was a security guard. He was making $10.50 an hour. This is back in 2016. And that.
Shane
So, so the. How did the tape. Because obviously it wasn't the only copy.
Emily Simpson
Well, let's just finish this. So he goes to the hotel, he hands over the video that he has. He signs the NDA, the confidentiality, a confidentiality agreement. Combs comes out, brings him a hundred thousand dollars in cash. Actually, he counts the money on a money counter first.
Shane
Yeah, because that's what. That's what criminals do. Yeah, they have money counters.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, they do. They have. I don't have one. Do you have one?
Shane
No.
Emily Simpson
I don't either. So he brings out a money counter. He. Cash. He. He counts the hundred thousand in cash in front of him. He says, do you want to count it? And he's like, no, you know, I trust the money counter. So he puts a hundred thousand dollars in a bag, gives it to him, he leaves, he goes back, he gives 50 grand to his boss, he gives 20 to another security guard that also witnessed the tape, and he gives 30,000 to himself.
Shane
Oh, this guy's too honest. He should have. Well, first of all, he should have said, I only got 50 like you asked. Yes.
Emily Simpson
So.
Shane
And then he keeps the 50 for himself, and then he distributes the other 50.
Emily Simpson
Right. But so anyway, well, he. He's an honest man.
Shane
He's an honest recipient of bribes.
Tamra Judge
Yes.
Shane
Like it.
Emily Simpson
So he ends up. Oh, and also Diddy tells him, like, don't go make a big purchase. Right. So he's warning him, like, you know, avoid tax fraud and everything else. He uses the 30,000 to buy himself a used car in cash. So I guess it doesn't ever show up anywhere. It doesn't look suspicious, apparently.
Shane
Why did P. Diddy give him a tip of 100%? 100.
Emily Simpson
I. Probably because he's just so happy. The guy is show. I mean, the guy's a billionaire 100,000. Like, if I found a quarter in my pocket. So I think he's. Or a nickel. Thank you. I think he's just. He's just so. He's so happy. Ecstatic. This guy showed up and hands over the video. Right. So anyway, apparently there was another security guard that worked that night that ended up making a video on his phone so he could show it to his wife. I couldn't find. I. I looked for articles or anything that connected it to being the footage that was eventually that CNN got a hold of. So I'm assuming that's where the breach took place. But, I mean, clearly, I wonder if.
Shane
He could have sold it more to the media for. More to the media? I don't know what media pays.
Emily Simpson
Well, I don't know, but here's where he went wrong. He could have gotten way more than a hundred thousand dollars from Diddy like this.
Shane
No, I don't know, because if it's too. If he was being too greedy, then his car might have blown up until.
Emily Simpson
Oh, so you're saying he just let.
Shane
Didn't negotiate with mobs and murderers.
Emily Simpson
You don't. All right, well, then I thought it was interesting that he testified that then Sean Combs called him on Easter to wish him a happy Easter and call him an angel and tell him that he was, like a good guy and that good things were going to happen to him. And, you know, the way I interpreted that, I feel like Sean Combs was being like, hey, oh, he was really checking in. Like, don't.
Shane
Like we're buddies. Yeah. Okay.
Emily Simpson
Happy Easter.
Shane
So wait, when did the deal take place? That was Easter, the very next holiday. Like, how much time had passed?
Emily Simpson
Well, this was like March of 2016.
Shane
So it was March. So maybe a couple weeks or a month.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, but I thought it was interesting that he's like, it's Good Friday. Happy Easter.
Shane
Check in.
Emily Simpson
Also, there was. So there's also another victim that is scheduled to testify. That's actually today. Her name is Jane, and Jane is a pseudonym. And we didn't talk about this on this podcast, but I did have a conversation with Aubrey o' Day last week. So if you want to listen to that podcast, you can find hers where we talked about. There was another victim that testified last week, and her name was Mia, which was a pseudonym. Her real name isn't Mia. And I was saying, I understand that these witnesses come forward. She talked about sexual assault, sexual abuse. She was Diddy's assistant for a long time, and there were all these incidents of Sexual abuse and assault that she talked about against her or that she witnessed her personally. So she had a pseudonym in court. And I was saying, I understand that she wants to keep her identity on the download, but she's testifying in front of him and testifying in court, testifying in front of the jury.
Shane
And the dangerous people already know who she is. That's P. Diddy. He already knows. He's not gonna be like.
Emily Simpson
Well, apparently, she. She was trying to. She was testifying under a pseudonym to keep her name out of the media.
Shane
I understand.
Emily Simpson
I mean, not. I mean, he clearly knows who she is.
Shane
Oh. I guess there's no cameras in the courtroom either, so.
Emily Simpson
Right.
Shane
Those crummy paintings.
Emily Simpson
Right. But what happened is, of course, someone finds out her identity.
Shane
Yeah.
Emily Simpson
And there's a YouTuber.
Shane
Okay, so hold on before you get any further.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
I was already thinking this. When people always give a fake name and they say not their real name, they should just pretend that that's her real name. Because if she said, my name is Mia, and she didn't say, that's my pseudonym or whatever, then this. Whoever would try to search for her would keep searching for Mia and they would never come up with her.
Emily Simpson
Yeah. So you're saying they should just create a whole false identity instead of just declaring that they're justifying under a pseudonym because they want to protect their identity. Well, so what happened was this pseudonym and this whole. This whole confidentiality that the court's trying to maintain in order to keep her identity under wraps did not work because a YouTuber who was, like, live streaming and, like, talking about the trial somehow knew her identity and released it. And then there was a news outlet that posted her identity on X. So the prosecution was upset. They said that Jane, who is someone that's also using a pseudonym, is scheduled to testify today, and that she was nervous about testifying because they had already been breached with this whole Mia pseudonym. Now, I tried to look for it. I couldn't find it. Would you? I was trying to find a.
Shane
Look you're going to Google.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, I looked.
Shane
Witness, not Mia.
Emily Simpson
I was looking for her real identity because it had been breached, but apparently they'd scrubbed it pretty well. But the judge asked the prosecution to draft a possible court order to bar the news outlet from court. So there was a news outlet that released her name on X, and then.
Shane
There was a news outlet do that. That's so stupid.
Emily Simpson
I. You know, I don't know. Especially when the judge made it clear that this woman was testifying. You Know, under.
Shane
I mean, there's got to be some integrity.
Emily Simpson
And then. Then the judge, the. The YouTuber got kicked out of court. Like, they're not allowed to come back, but the news outlet is allowed to still be there, even though they released the name on X. And then the judge asked the prosecution to draft a possible court order to bar the news outlet. I guess if they draft this court order and then he rules on it, maybe he'll bar them from court. But anyway, that's. People not following. And also, there was some. I don't know if you read this, but there was also some woman that went. She went a little crazy. She was inside the courtroom yesterday. Apparently she's been at court every single day outside of the courtroom. Then she was in the holding area. I think she's just. She's not a news reporter or anything. She's just someone. Yes. A fanatic. She ended up in the courtroom yesterday, and apparently she started screaming and yelling and.
Shane
In whose defense?
Emily Simpson
I don't know. I tried to read what she said. None of it, really. I couldn't tell if she was a fan of Diddy or. She was.
Shane
She's a nut.
Emily Simpson
She was the nut.
Shane
She was probably at the Michael Jackson trial, too.
Emily Simpson
Probably. And they removed her from the courtroom, but they did not bar her from court. She's still allowed to be in the holding area. So I didn't. I was like. I didn't really understand that. But anyway, that is Diddy. So that is an update on Blakely. Blakely. Blakely, Blake Lively, and Justin Baldoni, and an update on the testimony that's going on in Diddy. And I will stay on track of what happens with Jane because I want to see what she testifies to.
Shane
But.
Emily Simpson
Oh, one more thing on Diddy, I was thinking, this whole entire time we've been talking about Diddy, how he's basically being tried not only for. Well, he's being tried for rico, which, again, once you tell us what RICO means.
Shane
I mean, what stands for.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, what does RICO stand for?
Shane
Stands for racketeering, influence, corrupt organization.
Emily Simpson
Exactly. There's a party trick for you. If you're standing in line to pick up your kids, you can tell everyone about the Diddy trial and that he's being tried under the federal statute of rico, which was enacted to. For mobsters, because those guys at the top never actually commit any crimes.
Shane
Like Al Capone, like, never did anything. So I had to get him on tax fraud. Before rico.
Emily Simpson
Right, but before rico. So now that there's rico, you just have to establish that there's two criminal acts within a ten year time period. That there was a criminal enterprise and.
Shane
The enterprise was designed to carry out the crimes or something more to it.
Emily Simpson
And they're acting on behalf of or for a unified goal. Anyway, I was thinking, in this Diddy trial so far, we have a lot of violence and we know that he's a violent man, but are we really. Is the prosecution doing a good job of establishing that this is a criminal enterprise? And I think the testimony of Mia, who is under a pseudonym.
Shane
Yeah.
Emily Simpson
Was not a girlfriend.
Shane
Oh, she was an assistant. Well, she. Or that was someone.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, she was an assistant. And now we have the, the security guard with the hotel with the bribery.
Shane
Oh, I see.
Emily Simpson
So I feel like the prosecution is now honing in.
Shane
It's becoming less of a domestic case and more of organized or sophisticated cover ups and carry out, carrying out further crimes.
Emily Simpson
Exactly.
Shane
Paying off, right?
Emily Simpson
Yeah, exactly at the direction of Diddy. So I think they're, they're doing better of establishing.
Shane
Yeah. When you go from needing a money counter to being in a cell. Yeah, that sucks.
Emily Simpson
Yeah. Wow. That's a. That's when you.
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Thanks.
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And here's my old phone to trade in.
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Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Now through June 24th, score hot summer savings and earn four times the points. Look for in store tags on Items like Pepsi 2 liter bottles, poppy prebiotic sodas, all laundry detergent and Kinder's seasoning blend. Then clip the offer in the app for automatic event long savings. Enjoy savings on top of savings when you shop in store or online for easy drive up and go pickup or delivery subject to availability restrictions. Visit Albertsons or Safeway.com for more details.
Danielle Fishel
Gilmore Girls has a new home on Start tv, the network celebrating strong, smart women in iconic dramas. You can catch it every weekday at 5pm 4pm Central and 11pm 10pm Central. And now they've added a five hour block every Saturday from 5 to 10pm on 4pm to 9pm Central. Whether you're watching for the first time or coming back to Stars Hollow, it's all on Start tv. Start TV is easy to find, stream it, watch it on cable, satellite, or free over the air. Head to starttv.com to see how to watch where you live.
Emily Simpson
All right, so let's go into the Chrisley's this has been all over the news lately, so I feel like we we have to go down this road and talk about it. So first, how did Todd and Julie Chrisley first rise to fame? We know that they had a reality show, but I had to do some deep digging because I've only seen one episode of the show and I'm gonna guess you've never seen them on tv.
Shane
Never. I I've seen them in headlines all over the place. You know, years ago and then now again. But I don't know them. And I was surprised they were married.
Emily Simpson
Yes.
Shane
Yes. He does not look like he would be married.
Emily Simpson
He's not. He doesn't look like the marrying type.
Shane
No. Let's leave it at that.
Emily Simpson
Todd Chrisley and His Real Estate Empire so Todd Chrisley originally built his wealth in the early 2000s through real estate investment and development. He ran a company called Chrisley Asset Management which claimed to manage and liquidate distressed properties. During the housing boom. Todd made millions by flipping homes and investing in property. He projected an image of financial success, frequently referencing lavish spending, designer clothing, upscale homes, and at their peak, the Chrisleys lived thousand square foot mansion and traveled extensively. In 2014 they launched DID they have a money counter? I'm sure they have a money counter. In 2014, they launched Chrisley Knows Best on the USA Network. It was a reality show portraying them as wealthy, outspoken southern family navigating parenting, business and faith. It became a hit known for Todd's dramatic personality and strict parenting. Success from the show led to spin offs and endorsements and the family made hundreds of thousands per season. Todd and Julie used their fame to their benefit, conducting brand deals, public appearances, and even podcasting with their show Chrisley confessions back in 2018. But along the way, there were Always some red flags with his family.
Shane
So the show is what put them in the spotlight.
Emily Simpson
Yes. The reality. They were nobodies.
Shane
Normies.
Emily Simpson
Normies.
Shane
Yeah.
Emily Simpson
Yes, we now know the term norm.
Shane
Yes, normies.
Emily Simpson
Okay, so there's some red flags throughout these years where they're building this real estate empire. And I put empire in quotations.
Shane
Enterprise. Criminal enterprise.
Emily Simpson
Yes. Well, so Todd filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy back in 2012. According to court records from his bankruptcy filing, he had claimed to have 49.4 million in debt. He reported just 4.2 million in assets and listed only $55 in a checking account and a hundred dollars in cash. His monthly expenses were more than 50, 000, including 12, 000 on clothing, 6,000 on food, and 17, 000 in mortgage and rent and other household costs. He also owed 12 million to Regions bank and millions more to other lenders.
Shane
Wait, he owed 12 million?
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
But he claimed to only be four and a half million in debt.
Emily Simpson
No, 49.4 million.
Shane
49 million, yeah.
Emily Simpson
Did you miss that? That was the first thing I said.
Shane
I thought you said 4 million.
Emily Simpson
No. 49.4 million in debt.
Shane
$50 million in debt. What did he do for income before his TV show?
Emily Simpson
Well, I just told you that he.
Shane
Yeah, tell me again. Now that it's 49 million, I want to know what he did for work.
Emily Simpson
He was flipping homes. He was building. He was building a real estate. Well, that's what he. He claims. He.
Shane
He flipping off the banking industry is what he was doing.
Emily Simpson
He ran a company called Chrisley Asset Management where they managed and liquidated distressed properties. And apparently, allegedly, he made millions by flipping homes and investing in property. Then he files for bankruptcy and he has $49.4 million. Yes. 50 million. DOL.
Shane
Spent $50 million or maybe more.
Emily Simpson
So during the bankruptcy process, there were allegations.
Shane
What, he spent $50 million on clothing?
Emily Simpson
I don't know.
Shane
It's $144,000 a year in clothing, he said.
Emily Simpson
Cars, trips, lavish. I could spend 50 million in a year like. Like that.
Shane
$50 million?
Emily Simpson
Yes. So during the bankruptcy process, there were allegations of concealed assets. Todd was accused of hiding income and failing to disclose assets, including trusts and property, possibly put into his wife's name. Prosecutors later alleged that Todd and Julie used Julie's bank accounts and other people's names to avoid revealing income to the bankruptcy court and to the IRS. This is all leading up to their 2019 federal indictment. So this is all going on, right? Here's the way I understand it. And this is what I was trying to read and decipher. It was basically, from my understanding, a Ponzi scheme that had to do with loans. So they were taking out loans and then getting more loans to pay back the funds.
Shane
You're saying instead of getting investors to some supposed snake oil, they were getting loans to help pay back other loans and then have more money, and they just kept robbing Peter to pay Paul?
Emily Simpson
Exactly. Allegedly. Well, not allegedly. I mean, they were. They were prosecuted for it. So this. This is. Leads to their 2019 federal indictment. Prosecutors charged the Chris. The Chrisleys with one bank fraud. Submitting falsified documents to banks to obtain large loans. So that was the first part of this Ponzi scheme, as I understand it. First of all, in order to get all these loans, they had to falsify documents to make it look like they have more income or more assets than they do in order to get the loans.
Shane
Second, this is why the world hates us, because people go and get loans and spend all kinds of money on clothes, then file bankruptcy and then thinking is walk away.
Emily Simpson
Right. Second, wire fraud, using fake emails and bank records to qualify for funding. Third, tax evasion, not paying federal taxes or filing returns for multiple years. And four, conspiracy to defraud the United States. They pled not guilty and claimed that they were being framed by a former employee. And this former employee, also, when they went to trial, I think he was convicted of three years. He was like a financial advisor or something, which you told me when I was telling you about this. You get sick of people blaming their financial advisors.
Shane
I do. That's stupid. It's because they still have to sign everything and they still need to be responsible. You can't just hire a financial advisor to alleviate yourself and. And create some veil where it's like, oh, I didn't know he did it, not me. $50 million.
Emily Simpson
You were stuck on that 50?
Shane
Yeah. I had no idea it was $50 million.
Emily Simpson
So then covet comes along and delays their trial proceedings from 2020, 2021.
Shane
Flip homes and make that kind of money. So you think.
Emily Simpson
So you think he's crooked? No. Well, he might have. He might have flipped a couple or he might have a couple, but not enough to have $50 million in debt.
Shane
Not unless you falsify the loan documents.
Emily Simpson
Well, that's what they claim, and that's what they were convicted of, is falsifying loan documents. In June of 2022, their trial began. The prosecution's main evidence was fake bank and financial documents. Julie Chrisley allegedly created Fake fake financial documents, including falsified bank statements, fake credit reports, and altered financial audit letters. These were used to apply for and receive over $30 million in loans from community and regional banks between 2007. And they got addicted.
Shane
They just. It was easy money.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
And they just wanted more and more and more.
Emily Simpson
There's em. So other evidence is emails and text messages. Federal agents recovered emails and text messages between the Chrisley's and co conspirators that revealed that Julie allegedly emailed fake financial statements to third parties who submitted them to lenders. And Todd and other co conspirators discussed how to trick banks into approving their loans.
Zoe Saldana
Golly.
Shane
And then when I go get like a loan for a car, it seems like a mountain of paperwork and I'm like trying to state my case and make it like I can afford it. And then these people just go and get $50 million and loans and then.
Emily Simpson
File for bankruptcy and not pay back the loans and then get more. My bad.
Shane
Sorry.
Emily Simpson
I think they probably get more loans to pay back as many loans as they can. But then when they start to get to the point where it's like two loans, then you just file for bankruptcy.
Shane
And you just start over and you say it's a Ponzi scheme. You know, it's called the Ponzi scheme.
Emily Simpson
Yeah. You know the history on Pon, the guy's name was Ponzi.
Shane
Yeah, Charles Ponzi.
Emily Simpson
Charles Ponzi, Yeah.
Shane
In the 20s. And he was making a fortune.
Emily Simpson
What was, what was his Ponzi scheme?
Shane
His original business idea was valid.
Emily Simpson
Okay, what was this? This is the 20s, the 1920s, then the 20s.
Shane
He, he. It was. There was international stamps. Postage stamps.
Emily Simpson
Okay.
Shane
That could be used to mail internationally to other countries. But like countries got together and agreed that this was a universal stamp.
Emily Simpson
Okay.
Shane
It was cheaper in Italy, the stamps.
Emily Simpson
Why.
Shane
Than us. I don't know, exchange rate or something.
Emily Simpson
Okay.
Shane
So he was like, hey, I'll buy the stamps there, I'll bring them to the States and I'll resell them and it'll be cheaper for the buyers and I'll make a profit. Totally valid.
Emily Simpson
That's a legitimate business plan.
Shane
Legitimate business plan.
Emily Simpson
Okay.
Shane
It got out of control. And then he. Then he just ended up going into a Ponzi scheme where now he couldn't keep up with the demand. And he was just getting investors and he wasn't actually buying the stamps and he was paying people back. And he was. Then it turned into a true Ponzi scheme.
Emily Simpson
So a true Ponzi scheme is when you have people invest in something and then you just use that money to pay back some of your investors at the top.
Shane
Right.
Emily Simpson
And then you just get more people.
Shane
And sometimes usually just pay a little bit, like, so then. Then a newspaper came and wrote a complaint about him that it was a Ponzi scheme. Of course, they didn't label it back then, but they said it was fraud. He sued the newspaper for defamation. Yes. And won $500,000 in the 20s.
Emily Simpson
In the 20s, yeah.
Shane
Even though he was a crook.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
And in that time prior, I think when. When the media came out and said he was a scam, he opened up his doors and said, I will pay all my investors back. And they came and he would pay him back with a little bit of interest or whatever the agreement was.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
And then he'd be like, see, I have money. Are you sure you want your back? And then they eventually said, no, no, keep it, Keep it.
Emily Simpson
Keep investing.
Shane
Yeah. And then he won $500,000. And he had, like, a heated pool for his mom in, like, the 20s and all this, like, fancy home and electricity and cars. I think he had a permanent cabin on some yacht for his mom that would go across the seas. He was out of control.
Emily Simpson
Yeah.
Shane
And then he got busted.
Emily Simpson
How do you finally get caught?
Shane
That I can't remember. Oh, yeah. So I can't remember.
Emily Simpson
That's the end of the story.
Shane
I didn't finish the book. But he did get caught. He got extradited to Italy, and then Italy supposedly just, like, slapped him on the wrist and said, you know, you're so bad, boy. Yeah. Yeah. Don't do that again. Next time, don't get caught.
Emily Simpson
Right. Here's some pasta.
Shane
Yeah.
Emily Simpson
All right. So other further evidence in their original trial was testimony from a former business associate. A former employee, Mark Braddock testified against the Chrisleys in exchange for immunity. He claimed he helped Todd commit fraud for years and was involved in faking documents, forging signatures, and submitting false applications. He also claimed they paid off banks using newly fraudulently obtained loans, operating almost like a Ponzi scheme, which is what we talked about. And then there's also evidence of spending beyond their actual income. Despite claiming little to no income on taxes and bankruptcy forms, the Chrisley spent tens of thousands monthly on luxury items, paid for designer clothing, private school tuition, luxury cars, and rent for multi million dollar homes. The prosecution highlighted this to show that the Chrisleys were not simply bad with money, that they were intentionally living beyond their means while lying to banks and to the government. And lastly, there was a pattern of concealing the income. The Chrisleys use various strategies to avoid detection, including routing income through a production company controlled by Julie to shield it from the IRS and claiming to have little personal income while receiving thousands per month via other entities. Losers the conviction and sentencing. The jury found them both guilty on all counts. In November of 2022, Todd was sentenced to 12 years. Julie was sentenced to sentenced to seven years. And both were also given 16 months of probation following their following release.
Shane
Well, he had 12 years, she got seven. So they spent three years, give or take.
Emily Simpson
What do you mean?
Shane
Well, oh, yeah, less than three years, I guess.
Emily Simpson
So. In January of 2023, they report to prison. Todd reports to the federal prison camp in Pensacola, Florida, and Julie reports to federal medical center in Lexington, Kentucky. So what happened to the children? At 25 years old, Savannah Chrisley became the legal guardian and family spokesperson. She took custody of her younger brother Grayson, who's 16, and niece Chloe, who is 10. And this was Todd and Julie's adopted granddaughter. Because Todd had two children from a previous marriage. He was married before, so he's been married twice. So he has two.
Shane
Still suspicious.
Emily Simpson
He has two children from his first marriage. He had a falling out, I believe, with the daughter. And she was kind of estranged from the family. I don't think she was part of the reality show or anything, but I think she support for them publicly when they went to prison.
Shane
To be fair, we won't judge the family affairs because we don't really know. Yeah. But the. The stealing money is a problem.
Emily Simpson
Okay.
Shane
And then that I'll judge all day.
Emily Simpson
Long that you're going to judge. And he also had a son from his first marriage who had Chloe, who is the granddaughter. And then I believe the son had some substance abuse issues. So Todd and Julie adopted the granddaughter. So they.
Shane
Prior to going to prison.
Emily Simpson
Prior to going to prison, yes.
Shane
Prior to.
Emily Simpson
She became the public. So we're talking about Savannah. Savannah became the public face of the fan family, frequently speaking out in interviews and on her podcast, Unlocked with Savannah Chrisley, about the injustice she believed her parents faced. She continually expressed being overwhelmed. I mean, she is taking care of the kids, so I get that. But was committed to keeping the family together. Quote, I'm helping raise two children while also dealing with the loss of my parents being taken away, she said in a 2023 interview. Savannah's older brother Chase, did not become a legal guardian. However, he did support Savannah and helping with the two younger ones. Grayson And Chloe. So Savannah has been the one that's been working tire tirelessly to have her parents pardon. Let's just talk about pardon power so that we know where that comes from. So the president's power to grant pardons comes from. It's outlined in article. Yes, the Constitution. Article 2, Section 2, Clause 1 of the Constitution. I like to give you guys this little bits of, like, interesting legal. To me, it's interesting. I love the Constitution. I actually had a. A small pocket version of the Constitution that I just had in my purse. I mean, along with. Yeah, I would like to read it along with, like, snacks and, you know, sandwiches. I also have a copy of the Constitution.
Shane
Okay. I never knew that.
Emily Simpson
This power is broad, but not limitless. And it allows a president to offer forgiveness and restore rights to individuals convicted of federal crimes. Pardon power is explicitly limited to federal offenses only, not state offenses. And this means the president cannot pardon individuals for crimes committed under state or local laws. So on May 27, 2025, the presidential pardon is granted. President Donald Trump issues full pardons to both Todd and Julie Chrisley. The pardon cites claims of unfair prosecution and procedural irregularities. And the trial. The couple is released from prison having served roughly two years. All right, first of all, what is your thoughts? I know we were having this conversation, but you were saying you didn't think that they should be pardoned. If anything, you felt like their sentence should have been commuted.
Shane
Right, Because a pardon pretty much says you didn't do the crime.
Emily Simpson
Right.
Shane
Or you were unfairly prosecuted and, you know, you shouldn't have been found guilty or something to that effect. I. I don't know if there's. There's paper trails. Yeah, it's a crime not of testimony, but of just like their own signing documents. And I, I disagree. Based on what I know. I disagree with the pardon. If anything, commuting the sentence would have been better because then it'd be like, okay, you know what? That's more like, you did the crime. You did enough time. Your sense was harsh. This is enough. You're not a risk to society. If anything, you can be more productive, and we don't have to pay for you to sit in jail so you send them out. I think a pardon was not a good idea. Yeah, I disagree with that. And I think. And now that it's $50 million, I definitely think they should be in jail, still in jail.
Emily Simpson
Do you think two years was not enough time?
Shane
No, no. You know what?
Emily Simpson
The.
Shane
It should be an eye for an eye. It should be like, you are not allowed to have more than 500 in your pocket it at any given time. You cannot be rich anymore because you're phony.
Emily Simpson
So you're saying they lived a life.
Shane
Of luxury and now they should suffer?
Emily Simpson
So you're saying if someone commits fraud to. To live an extravagant lifestyle, they should never be able to live an extravagant lifestyle again. Even. Even if they earned it legitimately after they came out of prison, they're just. You're just not allowed to ever be rich again. That's your punishment.
Zoe Saldana
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Emily Simpson
Thanks.
Shane
And here's my old phone to trade in.
Zoe Saldana
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Shane
There's always a trade in.
Emily Simpson
Not right now.
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Emily Simpson
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Shane
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Shane
I don't really have much in my purse. Oh, let's see. Hand sanitizer. It's lavender.
Zoe Saldana
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Shane
Let me check this pocket. Oh, mints.
Zoe Saldana
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Shane
Oh, I have raisins. I'm a mom. Wait, wait one sec. I've got cupcakes in the car.
Emily Simpson
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Shane
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Emily Simpson
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Zoe Saldana
Cancel see t mobile.com now you can watch the best of Hulu right on Disney. The hottest Hulu shows and movies now streaming alongside your Disney favorites. With Hulu on Disney, catch new seasons of the Handmaid's Tale. Welcome to Wrexham, the secret lives of Mormon Wives and nine Perfect Strangers. Nicole Kidman returns as in season two of nine Perfect Strangers as Masha welcomes a new group of guests to a wellness retreat in the Austrian Alps. Her goal is to heal their minds and bodies. But as the experience unfolds, their journeys take an unexpected and potentially unsettling turn. And don't miss Marvel's Born Again and Star Andor Season 2 on Disney. Hailed as a masterpiece and the best Star wars has ever been. Season 2 of Andor delivers high stakes action, gripping drama and even romance as Cassian Andor continues his journey toward fulfilling his heroic rebel destiny. All these and more now streaming with Hulu on Disney with a bundle subscription available with bundle plans starting at $10.99 a month. Terms apply. Visit disneyplus.com hulu for details.
Ryan Seacrest
Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and safeway now through June 24th. Score hot summer savings and earn four times the points. Look for in store tags on Items like Pepsi 2 liter bottles, poppy prebiotic sodas, all laundry detergent and Kinder's seasoning blend. Then clip the offer in the app for automatic event long savings. Enjoy savings on top of savings when you shop in store or online for easy drive up and go, pickup or delivery subject to availability restrictions. Visit Albertsons or Safeway.com for more details.
Danielle Fishel
Gilmore Girls has a new home on Start tv, the network celebrating strong, smart women in iconic dramas. You can catch it every weekday at 5:00pm 4:00pm Central and 11:00pm 10:00pm Central. And now they've added a five hour block every Saturday from 5 to 10:00pm 4:00pm to 9:00pm Central. Whether you're watching for the first time or coming back to Stars Hollow, it's all on Start tv. Start TV is easy to find. Stream it, watch it on cable, satellite or free over the air. Head to starttv.com to see how to watch where you live.
Shane
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Emily Simpson
So in other news, Savannah Chrisley addresses rumors about her parents pardons. Days after Todd Chrisley and Julie Chrisley were released from prison, their daughter addressed conspiracy theories about her years long efforts to free her parents from behind bars. Quote, obviously the biggest misconception right now is that I either paid for a pardon or I slept for a pardon. Savannah told the media alongside of yourself, lady.
Shane
Alongside, you're assuming people want to sleep with you.
Emily Simpson
Well, she's very attractive.
Shane
She looks like him. He is pretty. He is pretty.
Emily Simpson
Okay, okay. She's pretty. They're both pretty. Savannah told the media alongside Todd during a May 30 press conference.
Shane
I just have very little sympathy for people that take other people's money knowingly. This isn't like a business venture that went bad or they kept throwing good money after bad because they were, they.
Emily Simpson
Were trying to build something when yeah.
Shane
Authentically, they were genuinely trying something. Even if it was poor decision, they should have known better.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, this is like intentional. It was fraudulent. There were big 50 million documents that are doctored. Here's the argument. And this is where I think people like, when you talk about Menendez, there's clearly victims and brutality. When you talk about a crime like this, there isn't. I think people look at it, people, but I don't think people see it that way. I think people see it as a victimless crime.
Shane
It's not, I don't, I, I never really understood victim. I guess meaning there's no individual person harmed and it's still a crime.
Emily Simpson
I think also people have a problem with capitalism a lot and they feel like people like this are just sticking it to like the, the, you know, banks and you know, that just generate a lot of income. Like there's no, there's no actual victim. You know, when people don't pay their car payments and they're like, so what? So Land Rover doesn't get my money or whatever.
Shane
Well, that would, that would be okay. If the person was fell flat fat on, flat on their fees at the term and they had no money and they couldn't pay, then it's not a, it's not criminal. It's just a financial situation. This is criminal. I'm sorry, but you take $50 million or more so you, because you think you should live a certain lifestyle, screw them.
Emily Simpson
She also states during a press conference that if people knew the countless hours of money and time I spent going to DC Literally with not a meeting scheduled. And I just got on a plane and went and said, I'm going to be in the right room in the right time and meet the right people. So basically, I know she spoke during the RNC and I think she, her, she alleges that her parents were unfairly prosecuted and gone after because they were supporters of Trump. So that. No, it was a political.
Shane
She's wrong. They were going after them because they committed crimes and owed $50 million. She forgot that part.
Emily Simpson
Yeah. He claims in his press conference that they are completely innocent. So I would be.
Shane
You know what, that's the thing, the pardon. I bet you a million bucks that part may get like, like, see, we didn't do anything. See, that's why now they can run around and claim innocence. But if it was just commuted, then maybe they could not run around, say we didn't do anything. Yeah, they wouldn't have that argument.
Emily Simpson
Well, I would love for them to take the opportunity to prove how they are innocent.
Shane
Yeah.
Emily Simpson
Because as far.
Shane
Well, they already had an opportunity and they sucked at it and they went to jail.
Emily Simpson
I know, but I'm saying now, after the fact, if you're going to do press conferences and continuously talk about how you're innocent and you didn't do anything wrong. Right. And that's why you were pardoned then. And how are you innocent? Let's see it.
Shane
Are we gonna see him at Bravocon?
Emily Simpson
I don't know.
Shane
I have some questions.
Emily Simpson
Todd also spoke and maintained that he and Julie did not commit the crimes for which they were convicted. He quote, even though this pardon happened, I still was convicted of something I did not do. It could be you. It could be you. It could be any of you. He said during a press conference.
Shane
No, it could. It could never be me because I will never take out a loan for $50 million.
Emily Simpson
Well, it wasn't falsify paperwork for 50 million. It was.
Shane
I don't care, whatever. I wouldn't falsified paperwork to get a loan.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, I.
Shane
So it will never be me. Chrisley.
Emily Simpson
Todd and Julie Chrisley's alleged pricey demand for their TV comeback raises eyebrows in Hollywood. This was an article on Daily Mail. Apparently they are shopping or they're being offered a brand new reality series documenting their return back into their normal life post prison. According to sources, that might not be a problem as many TV production companies are considering signing the couple. However, their price may be a hindrance as they're seeking a seven figure payout. Recently, some television producers opened up to The Daily Mail sharing their thoughts about Todd and Julie's extremely high price tag. Quote, we would love to work with them, but their price tag is way too high.
Shane
One producer, he has no assets now. He's got to build up his wardrobe.
Emily Simpson
Right.
Shane
He's got to catch up on whatever procedures he didn't get while he was locked up.
Emily Simpson
They also shared that they weren't entirely sure if Todd and Julie would be worth such a huge amount. That's the thing. Would people want to watch them? The producer asked. Another producer revealed that the specific amount Todd and Julie were requesting. According to them, the couple is allegedly asking for a whopping 5 million dollar minimum to make a reality show post prison. That's where their conversation starts. 5 million. But they're hoping for a bidding war to take the price even higher.
Shane
So they should be in the slammer.
Emily Simpson
So you're not a fan. You're a fan. Listen, here's my thoughts on pardoning. I understand and I understand the Constitution and the. Has pardoned power and I agree with that. I feel, however, just because of the work that I do and the things that I'm involved in, I mean, I look at cases and things, see things all the time and meet people involved in the Innocence Project. And in my mind I'm thinking, why are we not. Why are we not taking it deeper? Why are. Why is there not a consultant from.
Shane
The Innocence Pardon czar? Or in addition to a pardon czar, they should have a wrongly convicted czar.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, I would love to look for.
Shane
Those cases because the lady that was appointed as the pardons are.
Emily Simpson
Yes. Alice something.
Shane
She's awesome.
Emily Simpson
She is.
Shane
And she's lived up to her end of the deal of just being a good person to society and trying to help those who, you know, need to get back up on their feet. And she's the one that sought out the Chrisleys, I think, in some fashion. I mean, she was probably approached, but she did her homework. Because I watched an interview with her. She did her homework and she felt after doing her homework that they were wrongly convicted or indefinitely wrongly sentenced or harshly sentenced. So I do know that she's a pretty genuine good woman. So I hope that she did her homework enough. But I still disagree.
Emily Simpson
Well, you disagree.
Shane
I disagree. Based on what I know.
Emily Simpson
Right.
Shane
There might be things I don't know. Yeah, no, I. I know what I know.
Emily Simpson
You know? You know?
Shane
Yeah, I don't think I know what.
Emily Simpson
I guess the point of what I was saying was, is in the, in the field and the things that I work in. And you have been involved in a lot of. Meet a lot of people that have been wrongfully convicted. And my question is, why are we not investing more time and energy into those cases that the Innocence Project picks up and puts all this time and energy?
Shane
Well, I guess the argument is if they were pardoned, then the argument is they were wrongly convicted. So they were.
Emily Simpson
But I would rather. I would just. I would. If we're going to have pardoning power, we're going to pardon people. I would rather pardon someone that has been in prison for a long time that was either wrongfully convicted, like one of your.
Shane
One of the cases that you help with, or it takes. Takes. They have evidence and now it still takes.
Emily Simpson
Yes.
Shane
Years.
Emily Simpson
Yes.
Shane
To actually.
Emily Simpson
Yes.
Shane
Get it overturned and then released.
Emily Simpson
Right.
Shane
But you're saying. So when the president can just come in. Well, assuming it's a federal crime. When the president can come in, or the governor could come in, just boom. And get him out.
Emily Simpson
Yeah, I just. I wish there was. I just needed.
Shane
Maybe the Chrisley should have a reality show where they go around the prisons and they talk to people.
Emily Simpson
That's what they should do. Did you hear that? Todd and Julie Chrisley, if you're looking for a reality show, because they did.
Shane
Completely go to the prison.
Emily Simpson
He did.
Shane
And bring that to the people.
Emily Simpson
See an interview with Todd Chrisley where he does talk about the prison environment and how bad it is and how bad the food is. And he did say. He said that African Americans are treated more poorly than the white prisoners. And he said he received privileges because he was white. And he. He made that known. He said it in an interview.
Shane
See, that's interesting. So do your part and bring all that to the public and expose those things and try to make it better.
Emily Simpson
Okay, I. There. That's a good solution. We together would get behind a reality show with the Chrisley if they want to do prison reform or do some type of Innocence Project or. Or work with wrongly convicted. And.
Shane
But then he has to give all his money back to the bank.
Emily Simpson
Oh, he has. But says he has to give the money back, too.
Shane
Yeah.
Emily Simpson
So there's that. All right. That is. The Chrisley's will keep you updated on things that have to do with Diddy and Lively. And if there's any more that comes with the Chrisley, we'll be aware of whether they get their reality show or not, or whether they listen to this.
Shane
Podcast and then we'll recap it.
Emily Simpson
And then we'll recap. Recap the reality recap the reality show. Yes. All right. Thanks guys for listening to Legally Brunette. We appreciate it. And as always, a lot of you send me DMS and tell me your thoughts about cases and cases that you think that we should talk about. So I appreciate that. So please continue to do that.
Shane
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Emily Simpson
This is an iHeart podcast.
Podcast Summary: Legally Brunette: Todd & Julie Chrisley
Two Ts In A Pod with Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra Judge, hosted by iHeartPodcasts, presents the episode titled "Legally Brunette: Todd & Julie Chrisley," released on June 5, 2025. In this detailed discussion, Emily Simpson and Shane delve deep into the rise, legal troubles, and eventual pardon of reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley.
Timestamp: [29:06]
Emily Simpson opens the segment by addressing the recent surge in news coverage about Todd and Julie Chrisley. She notes, “Let's go into the Chrisley's...,” setting the stage for an in-depth exploration of their journey from reality TV fame to legal battles.
Timestamp: [29:27]
Emily Simpson outlines the Chrisleys' ascent to prominence:
"Todd Chrisley originally built his wealth in the early 2000s through real estate investment and development... In 2014, they launched Chrisley Knows Best on the USA Network."
The show portrayed them as a wealthy Southern family, emphasizing Todd's dramatic personality and strict parenting. Their success led to multiple spin-offs and lucrative brand deals, making them household names.
Timestamp: [31:15]
Despite their on-screen success, red flags emerged early on. Emily reveals:
"Todd filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy back in 2012. He had claimed to have $49.4 million in debt while listing minimal assets."
Shane comments on the disparity between their reported debts and lavish lifestyle:
"He spent $50 million or maybe more... during the bankruptcy process, there were allegations of concealed assets."
Timestamp: [33:52]
The conversation shifts to the 2019 federal indictment:
"Prosecutors charged the Chrisleys with bank fraud, submitting falsified documents to obtain large loans... They were also accused of wire fraud, tax evasion, and conspiracy to defraud the United States."
Emily summarizes the nature of their alleged Ponzi scheme:
"They were taking out loans and then getting more loans to pay back the funds, effectively robbing Peter to pay Paul."
Timestamp: [35:15]
During their 2022 trial, key evidence included:
Shane reflects on their sentencing:
"In November of 2022, Todd was sentenced to 12 years and Julie to 7 years... Both also received 16 months of probation post-release."
Timestamp: [44:14]
A significant development occurred on May 27, 2025, when President Donald Trump issued full pardons to Todd and Julie Chrisley:
"The pardon cites claims of unfair prosecution and procedural irregularities."
Shane expresses skepticism about the nature of the pardon:
"I disagree with the pardon. If anything, commuting the sentence would have been better because it'd be like... you did the crime and did enough time."
Timestamp: [50:48]
Following their release, the Chrisleys explored opportunities in reality TV:
"Their price may be a hindrance as they're seeking a seven-figure payout for a comeback show."
Emily shares insights from a Daily Mail article:
"They are allegedly asking for a whopping $5 million minimum, hoping for a bidding war to increase their price."
Shane critiques their actions post-pardon:
"They can run around and claim innocence... But the pardon says they did the crime."
Timestamp: [51:12]
Savannah Chrisley, their 25-year-old daughter, became the family spokesperson:
"She is helping raise two children while also dealing with the loss of my parents being taken away."
Emily discusses public misconceptions and Savannah’s efforts to clear her parents' names:
"The biggest misconception is that I either paid for a pardon or I slept for a pardon."
Shane emphasizes the severity of their crimes:
"You take $50 million because you think you should live a certain lifestyle... that's a crime."
Timestamp: [59:50]
Emily wraps up the discussion by expressing intentions to monitor ongoing developments related to the Chrisleys, Diddy, and Blake Lively cases:
"The Chrisleys will keep you updated... whether they get their reality show or not."
Emily Simpson at [29:27]: "Todd Chrisley originally built his wealth in the early 2000s through real estate investment and development."
Shane at [35:33]: "Based on what I know, I disagree with the pardon."
Emily Simpson at [53:42]: "Todd and Julie Chrisley's alleged pricey demand for their TV comeback raises eyebrows in Hollywood."
This episode of Two Ts In A Pod offers a comprehensive analysis of the Chrisleys' downfall and the broader implications of their legal saga, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of fame, fortune, and the legal system.