PRETEND PRETEND

How Edward Smog Scammed a Retired Nurse Out of $150K

Jul 28, 2026 · 36m

Summary

Host Javier Leyva investigates the case of Rhonda, a retired nurse targeted by Nigerian scammers who stole $150,000 through fake grants and romance schemes. With help from real estate agent Joe Rocco, Leyva attempts to expose the fraud before Rhonda sells her home, potentially funding further scams. The episode highlights the emotional manipulation involved and offers advice for protecting elderly family members from similar financial exploitation.

Topics discussed

Intro and Progressive Insurance Ad Introduction to Rhonda's Scam Story Pretend Pod and Uniqlo Ads Shopify Ad and Creative Ideas Details of the Grant and Romance Scams First Phone Call with Victim Rhonda The FedEx Truck Fire and Poisoning Story Investigating Money Mules and Hacked Accounts Rhonda's Denial and Neighbor Gloria's Scam Interview with Neighbor Gloria and Rhonda's Response Common Romance Scam Playbooks and Other Victims Safety Tips, Outro, and Next Series Teaser
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