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The Opportunist

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The Opportunist tells true stories of regular people who turn sinister by embracing opportunity. How does an everyday person turn into a thief, a scammer or a cult leader? Perhaps the most dangerous person is the one who appears the most normal. Perhaps there is a dark potential lurking inside all of us that is just waiting for the right opportunity to emerge. The Opportunist is an original podcast hosted by Sarah James McLaughlin.
86 Episodes
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When John Darwin vanished in a canoeing accident off the coast of the United Kingdom, it seemed like a tragic loss—but it was all part of a calculated plan. In this episode we explore how his elaborate scheme came to light and the shocking role his wife played.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Introducing Dr. Vonda Wright: Formula to Lose Weight and Gain Muscle (Why your Current Workout is Not Giving You Results) from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay ShettyHow often do you work out? What’s been the biggest challenge in your fitness journey so far? In today’s episode, Jay sits down with Dr. Vonda Wright, an orthopedic surgeon and researcher specializing in active aging and longevity. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay feeling youthful as you age, lose stubborn fat, and improve your sleep,, this conversation is packed with life changing insights. Jay and Dr. Wright start by debunking the myth that aging is an inevitable decline. Dr. Wright explains how lifestyle choices in your 20s and 30s directly impact how you feel in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. They dive into how excess fat, especially around the belly, isn’t just about appearance—it’s a sign of inflammation that accelerates aging. Dr. Wright shares how movement, muscle mass, and diet play a crucial role in fat loss and energy levels. They also explore the powerful body-brain connection. Dr. Wright breaks down how physical activity releases key proteins that protect the brain from cognitive decline and diseases like dementia. Jay and Dr. Wright discuss how poor sleep can sabotage fat loss, slow down recovery, and disrupt hormones—leading to more cravings, weight gain, and reduced longevity. In this interview, you'll learn: How fat storage impacts aging and energy levels. The critical role of sleep in weight loss and brain function. How movement and muscle mass keep you youthful. How lifestyle choices in your 30s affect long-term health. Why fitness-based friendships can improve your health. If you want to stay sharp, maintain a healthy weight, and build lasting habits that help you thrive for decades, this episode gives you the tools to start now. With Love and Gratitude, Jay Shetty Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free Monk Mode newsletter. Subscribe here. What We Discuss: 00:00 Intro  01:43 Your Perception Of Aging Is A Myth 05:31 Develop Healthy Habits in Your 20s 10:07 Why Your Sleep Can Fall Apart in Midlife 16:58 Can You Restock Years Of Not Sleeping? 22:09 Sleep Deprivation is Sabotaging Your Weight Loss 26:45 The Weight Loss Formula That Actually Works  36:04 There Is A Difference Between Being Healthy & Fit 43:13 Fitness Is A Great Way To Connect 46:17 How To Lose Stubborn Belly Fat 55:30 The Body Brain Connection is Integral to  1:01:39 Don’t Make Excuses to Start Making Changes In Your Life 1:04:24 Mobility is One of the Most Important Skills for Aging Well  1:09:51 Break Free from Your Limiting Beliefs 1:17:15 Vonda Wright on Final 5 Episode Resources: Vonda Wright| Website Vonda Wright| YouTube  Vonda Wright| Linkedin Vonda Wright| Instagram Vonda Wright| Facebook Vonda Wright| TiktokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.
Kouri Richins was a grieving widow—or so it seemed—until her husband’s suspicious death revealed a web of deceit and greed. In this episode, we uncover the chilling story of how she exploited trust and love in a scheme that shocked everyone who knew her. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Coach Overton’s win-at-all-costs mentality led Hayfield High to a dream season—but also to its darkest chapter. In this episode, we delve into how his opportunistic actions unraveled the team, exposing a scandal that left a community reeling. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
When Coach Overton made a surprising leap to Hayfield High School, he was hailed as the savior of the struggling football program. But behind his calculated move lay the actions of an opportunist willing to bend the rules to build his legacy at any cost. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Part 2: The Fraternity

Part 2: The Fraternity

2025-02-1849:36

After Peter Martins’ actions were exposed, a dancer named Chase Finlay was caught taking inappropriate pictures and videos of dancers at the New York City Ballet. In this episode, we dive into how the misogynistic culture created by Peter Martins spurred others to misuse their perceived power. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The American Ballet Company, led by the charismatic Peter Martins, was the epitome of grace and perfection—until allegations of abuse and exploitation surfaced. In this episode, we explore how Martins used his influence to exploit dancers and manipulate those around him to maintain his dominance. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Discover the shocking story of Officer John Greer, a trusted law enforcement officer who exploited his badge to commit unthinkable murders. In this episode, we uncover the dark secrets Greer tried to hide, and how his abuse of power led to a chilling reign of terror. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the final episode of The Opportunist: Tim Ballard - Unmasking a Hero, host Sarah James McLaughlin sits down with the producers and writers to explore the creative and investigative processes behind this compelling series. They also discuss their attempts to secure an interview with the new leader of O.U.R. Rescue. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of The Opportunist, we delve into the new allegations against Tim Ballard and explore the Federal civil lawsuit that accuses him of exploiting his position as the head of O.U.R to traffick the women he worked with. Thank you to our sponsors: Betterhelp: Visit betterhelp.com/opportunist for 10% off your first month Quince: Go to quince.com/opportunist for free shipping and 365-day returns Shopify: Sign up for $1/month trial period at shopify.com/opp  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we delve into the latest chapter of Tim Ballard’s controversial journey. Facing multiple lawsuits and a fallout with the LDS Church, Ballard is navigating scandal and scrutiny while attempting to hold onto his public influence. Thank you to our sponsors: Betterhelp: Visit betterhelp.com/opportunist for 10% off your first mo nth Quince: Go to quince.com/opportunist for free shipping and 365-day returns Shopify: Sign up for $1/month trial period at shopify.com/opp See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we explore Tim Ballard's dramatic downfall. As his hidden actions were exposed, even his most devoted supporters started to pull away, leaving the promising future he once imagined increasingly overshadowed by each new revelation. Thank you to our sponsors: Quince: Go to Quince.com/Opportunist for 365-day returns plus free shipping on your order! Shopify: Go to Shopify.com/OPP to upgrade your selling today! Better Help: This podcast is sponsored by Better Help. Visit BetterHelp.com/OPPORTUNIST to get 10% off your first month. Silver Linings: Listen now wherever you get your podcasts! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we delve into Tim Ballard’s connection to QAnon conspiracy theories and the role the Sound of Freedom movie played in reinforcing these narratives. We explore how the film’s themes of child trafficking and heroic rescues mirrored common QAnon stereotypes, fueling its popularity among conspiracy believers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we examine how Tim Ballard's ties to the LDS Church and his relationship with Former President M. Russell Ballard may have provided cover for the controversial "couple ruse" used in undercover operations. Allegations suggest this tactic, supported by Ballard's church ties, played a role in shielding him from scrutiny as claims of inappropriate behavior surfaced. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we investigate the controversial "couple ruse" tactic used by Tim Ballard during undercover operations. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that this strategy blurred professional boundaries and contributed to claims of inappropriate conduct, with some accusing Ballard of predatory behavior. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we explore the pull of Tim Ballard’s powerful appeal and how his public persona drew volunteers like Bree Righter to the OUR movement. And we look at how that appeal blinded supporters to his potential misdeeds. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we dive into the recent allegations made by Celeste Borys against Tim Ballard, the founder of Operation Underground Railroad. Borys accuses Ballard of unethical behavior during their work together, raising serious questions about his methods and leadership. Join us as we unpack these claims and explore their potential impact on Ballard's reputation and anti-trafficking efforts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we explore the rise of Tim Ballard, from his claims of being in the CIA to his early days in law enforcement to at DHS. We examine how Ballard built a global anti-trafficking organization and gained widespread attention for his daring rescue missions. Tune in to hear the story behind the man and the movement that has sparked both praise and controversy. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Coming October 21, 2024... In the 10th season of "The Opportunist: Tim Ballard," PodcastOne will explore controversy surrounding Tim Ballard, the celebrated founder of Operation Underground Railroad, an organization known for its mission to combat human trafficking. Hailed by some as a modern-day hero, Ballard's reputation is now tarnished by controversy as allegations of sexual misconduct have emerged - shaking the foundations of his crusade. Through exclusive interviews with victims and those who know him best, this podcast series aims to unravel the complexities of Ballard's dual persona- a savior to some, a predator to others. Join host Sarah James McLaughlin as she explores the rise and potential fall of a man whose actions have sparked a national conversation on trust, power, and accountability. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Join the host and producers of The Opportunist for a behind-the-scenes discussion on some of the most captivating single-story episodes from the past season. Plus, get an exclusive sneak peek at the twists and turns of the upcoming season, which will delve into the rise and fall of Tim Ballard, the founder of the anti-sex trafficking organization Operation Underground Railroad. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Comments (132)

Jessica

this episode cuts off in the middle of a sentence

Apr 16th
Reply

Simo plops

what an anticlimatic finale. painful to listen to the entire series. i skipped a number of episodes as there was noting new, just more of the same. as mentioned previously, this could have been made in 2 episodes.

Dec 16th
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Me

Haha, Democrats are also huge conspiracy theorists. Good show, too bad your TDS is showing.

Dec 3rd
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Cobra 7

It is more likely than not he was excommunicated, given the nature and number of accusations. If he was baptized into another religion, that's automatic excommunication. If he's convicted criminally, that's also automatic excommunication. And the last time the Mormon church publicly repudiated someone so openly was July of 1842, so that was, indeed, almost unprecedented.

Dec 2nd
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Simo plops

speak, repeat. how many times can you say the same thing over and over each episode. i would guess you could condense this multi part into two episodes MAXIMUM.

Nov 27th
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Simo plops

lomg and dragged out episodes repeating the same meaning with different words. it used to be good with the old narrator.

Nov 21st
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Julia

"You have to have a man's financial mind" wtf is he talking about??

Oct 28th
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Krominov

Been waiting for the return of the original host, Hannah Smith, under the assumption she was just on vacation, only to learn today that she left the show circa February 2024 and is not returning. The new host and changes to the show aren't bad, they're just not what I subscribed to years ago. The Opportunist was Hannah, they were indistinguishable or inseparable from one another, and the show without her is not the show at all.

Sep 30th
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Non Dairy Canary

What on earth has happened to this podcast? It used to involve grown up, in depth, broadsheet quality investigations into people who took advantage of opportunities that came their way, hence the name. Suddenly it's become a series of superficial, juvenile, tabloid stories about crooks, just like almost every other true crime podcast out there. The writing is semi literate, the presenters talk as if to infants, everything that made it stand out has been stripped away. I'm done with it.

Sep 4th
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Nickie Manjon

I had to Google this show and its narrator as soon as I listened to this episode. Not to say SJM isn't good, but the original narrator, Hannah, made this show. I was able to tell the difference when sponsor messages started/ended when she did them, there were a lot more "meat" & details. The stories were way easier to follow and had flow. I had a "wtf did I just listen to?" moment after this episode, especially since I knew what to expect--and loved this podcast.

Aug 25th
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Non Dairy Canary

Where is the opportunism in this story? This podcast has forgotten what it is supposed to be about.

Aug 20th
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Simo plops

where is hannah smith. narration boring and this story was not interesting.

Aug 3rd
Reply

Afifa Najnin Shetu

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Apr 19th
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Suey

oh, how convenient. Sovereign citizens don't adhere to US law but they can use it at will--call the cops and bring cases against innocent people willy billy and will call 911 and allow municipal police to show up on her behalf. What a manipulative sick asshole. Reaping all the good benefits of being a citizen when it suits her and not having the consequences effect her. I don't particularly like the government, either, but I'm not stupid enough to be a hypocrite. Dont like it? Easy, leave!

Feb 17th
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Suey

oh, how convenient. Sovereign citizens don't adhere to US law but they can use it at will--call the cops and bring cases against innocent people willy billy and will call 911 and allow municipal police to show up on her behalf. What a manipulative sick asshole. Reaping all the good benefits of being a citizen when it suits her and not having the consequences effect her. I don't particularly like the government, either, but I'm not stupid enough to be a hypocrite. Dont like it? Easy, leave!

Feb 17th
Reply

Suey

Ugh! Naturally those guys never considered the moral or ethical implications of what it meant to scrounge through a plane wreckage for weed, AND think that this highly illegal thing was "fun" because they were white crunchy guys in the 70's. They consider themselves untouchable. These guys are the same climbers who still continue to gatekeep the climbing community because they miss the "good old days" when they didn't have to share the sport with anyone else and want to keep it that way.

Jan 31st
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Me

Wow, heartbreaking series. I hope social media puts this industry out of business.

Dec 18th
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Mantik K

Great show in many levels! I’m listening all shocked and amazed!

Dec 17th
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Aakash Amanat

I thoroughly enjoyed this episode of "The Opportunist." The host's storytelling skills are truly remarkable, and the way they delved into the life of the opportunist in question was both captivating and insightful. The narrative painted a vivid picture of how opportunism can lead individuals down a complex and often morally ambiguous path. https://www.fixerhub.com/england/london/professional-service/kraft-paper-printer The interview with the subject's close friend added a personal touch that made the story even more engaging. The exploration of the psychological aspects of opportunism was particularly intriguing, shedding light on the motives and justifications behind the opportunistic behavior. I appreciate how the podcast not only sheds light on the dark side of opportunism but also encourages listeners to reflect on their own actions and choices. Overall, a thought-provoking and well-executed episode. https://www.biztobiz.org/london-uk/business-services/kraft-paper-printer

Nov 2nd
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Erik Moses

Superbly done podcast - great voice and delivery of the content, not to mention very interesting.

Sep 12th
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