In this episode, Brandon hosts Brian Watson, a retired IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent with 28 years of experience in federal law enforcement. Brian shares his background and current role with the nonprofit ROSE (Resources Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly), where he focuses on fraud prevention for older adults. They discuss the evolving n…

In this episode of the Smarticle Scams podcast, Brandon welcomes Intel analyst Paul Raffile to discuss his extensive work in fighting financial sextortion. Raffile shares his background in tracking online threats and details how financial sextortion scams have evolved to predominantly target males aged 14-17 years old. He explains the methods these…

In this episode of the Smarticle Podcast we delve into the alarming 'Pig Butchering' scam, a sophisticated fraud scheme originating in China and spreading across Southeast Asia. Brandon discusses previous incidents, including a significant case involving Shan Hanes, the CEO of a small Kansas bank who was implicated in this scam and embezzled $47 mi…

In this episode of the Smarticle podcast, Brandon introduces Erin West, a former Deputy District Attorney and founder of Operation Shamrock, to delve into the alarming rise of 'pig butchering' scams. Erin explains how these scams trick victims, often through elaborate schemes involving romantic or investment opportunities, leading to devastating fi…

In the first episode of this new series from the Smarticle Podcast, the focus is on the prevalence and mechanisms of scams on freelance sites, particularly Upwork. Brandon interviews writer Justin Caffier, who shares his personal experience of falling victim to an Upwork scam. They discuss the tactics used by scammers, platform vulnerabilities, and…

In this gripping series, the Smarticle Podcast reveals the massive, yet underreported, threat of online scams that are costing American households billions of dollars a year. From phishing emails to fake websites, these digital deceptions are undermining societal trust and destabilizing American life. Join Brandon, Larry, and the Smarticle Media te…

Today on the Smarticle, Brandon and Larry announce their upcoming hiatus and reflect on the three-year journey of the podcast. We discuss the evolution of the show, which aims to provide a concise alternative to long podcasts, and our future ambitions. The conversation shifts to a discussion on politics, faith, and the importance of listening and u…

Today we talk about the emotional and physical challenges faced during the storm, including concerns for family safety, power outages, and acts of kindness from the community. Brandon shares the overwhelming emotions experienced, akin to grief, and reflects on fear, comparing it to the experiences of soldiers coming back from war. Despite the diffi…

Today on the Smarticle Podcast we welcome back Bobby Conn, author of 'In the Shadow of the Valley,' marking her as the show's first-ever two-time guest. We delve into her Time Magazine article critiquing JD Vance's memoir 'Hillbilly Elegy' and its portrayal of Appalachia. The discussion covers the importance of acknowledging the social structures t…

Today on the Smarticle Podcast we share Larry's experiences of starting new jobs and dealing with technology challenges. Larry, a seasoned Silicon Valley professional, recounts trying to adapt to modern tech after decades in radio. We discuss the impacts of relying solely on a phone for a week, family dynamics, and adjusting to new career demands. …

Today we talk to Justin Azbill, a trustee of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention. We discuss with him the alarming rates of suicide and substance abuse among construction workers. Justin shares his personal journey and the mental health challenges faced by workers in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of bre…

In this special episode of the Smarticle Podcast, the team celebrates Larry's last day in radio after a remarkable 20-year career. Friends, family, and colleagues come together to share heartfelt stories, laugh over fond memories, and roast Larry with love. From humorous tales about radio mishaps to touching tributes, this episode captures the esse…

Today we are very honored to have on the Smarticle Podcast, author and cultural advocate, Bobi Conn. Bobi shares her experiences growing up in rural Appalachia. Raised in a holler in Moorhead, Kentucky, Conn discusses the cultural and economic challenges faced by the region. She also shares personal anecdotes, including overcoming childhood poverty…