Podcasting 101

12 Podcasts Like Scamanda: Lies, Scams, and Shocking Truths

By Dear Media | June 11, 2025

There’s something about a true crime podcast that keeps people hooked. The small details that add up to shocking truths and suspenseful music that keeps us on our toes? We’re here for it. But the truth is, not all true crime podcasts are created equal. The narration is truly what takes content from bland to brilliant.

That said, it’s no wonder “Scamanda” took the world by storm. After we saw enough people raving about it, we finally decided to tune in for ourselves. And honestly, we can’t believe it took us so long! You have an unbelievable story brought to life by a narrator who nails the balance between empathy and drama, keeping listeners hooked from the very first episode.

Naturally, as soon as we finished the last episode, we wanted more ASAP. That’s why we put together a list of podcasts like “Scamanda” that have that same “just one more episode” energy. Think: jaw-dropping secrets, uncovered stories, and wild lies that will have you screaming. Ready to find your new favorite fix? Let’s jump in.

12 Podcasts Like Scamanda: Lies, Scams, and Shocking Truths

Maybe you’re new to the “Scamanda” obsession, or maybe you’ve listened to it enough times to launch your own podcast about it. Either way, we need to recap what the show is all about. Otherwise, how will we set the standard for every other show to come?

But here’s a little spoiler about our must-listen-to recommendation list: these aren’t your typical “murder-mystery” true crime podcasts. They’re the ones that explore scams, secrets, and wild double lives. Okay, we’ve already said too much! Let’s revisit “Scamanda,” and then we’ll get into the good stuff.

What Is Scamanda Podcast About

“Scamanda” tells the true story of Amanda Riley a seemingly average Cali-based blogger, former substitute teacher, mother, and pastor’s wife. She started a blog in early 2012 titled “Lymphoma Can Suck It,” where she documented her grueling battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The shocking twist? She didn’t actually have cancer. YEP, you read that right.

For more than SEVEN years, Amanda tricked her family, friends, church, and online community into believing this horrific lie. And what did she get out of it? Lots and lots of money, sympathy, gifts, and attention. But it’s not like she claimed she had cancer and didn’t try to back it up. The podcast dives deep into how she pulled it off… AKA, fake chemo pics and alleged cross-country hospital visits.

After one of Amanda’s close friends became suspicious, she reached out to investigative producer Nancy Moscatiello for help. Teaming up with financial crimes detective Jose Martinez, Moscatiello set in motion what would become the beginning of the end.

Charlie Webster, narrator, award-winning journalist, and brains behind the “Scamanda” podcast operation, delivers this story without missing a beat. He doesn’t just focus on telling us the facts; he really hits on how emotional and personal this story is. You’re hearing from people who trusted, believed, and supported her. It’s as heartbreaking as it is captivating.

So, now that you’ve got a feel for the vibe we’re on, what are we waiting for??? Here are podcasts like “Scamanda” that you need for your podcast rotation, like yesterday.

What Podcasts To Listen To Like Scamanda

Believable: The Coco Berthmann Story

Whether you’re a Dear Media fan or straight-up true crime junkie, you’ve probably heard of “Believable: The Coco Berthmann Story.” And if you haven’t, you’re missing out big time. This podcast dives deep into the life of Coco Berthmann, an internet personality who got arrested for raising money for a FAKE cancer diagnosis.

Hmm… sound familiar? Sara Ganim and Karen Given, hosts of this iconic podcast, don’t hold back. You get all the juicy details, jaw-dropping truths, and unbelievable twists and turns. And, once you’re done listening to that, you have to check out this episode of Him & Her. You get to hear from Coco herself, before she was under active investigation.

Swindled

Obsessed with white-collar crimes? Then we know you’ll love “Swindled.” There’s also a unique twist that’s rarely seen in podcasts: we have no idea who the host is. All we know is that he’s a former government worker who calls himself “a concerned citizen.” Intriguing, right???

This podcast reveals true stories of financially motivated crime and its global impact. But it’s not just dry, poorly delivered content; there’s an equal mix of humor and edge-of-your-seat suspense.

Scamfluencers

Hosted by Scaachi Koul and Sarah Hagi, “Scamfluencers” explores the world of sneaky and deceptive online influencers. And here’s the huge dish of reality that isn’t often discussed you never really know the face behind the screen. Reminds us of someone else we know!

We’ve all seen those influencers who claim they hold allll the secrets and then charge people to uncover them. The hidden fountain of youth, the best-kept secret to happiness, the one tip that will make you millions where does it end? “Scamfluencers” is here to call these people out unapologetically.

Scam Goddess

As much as we love the nitty gritty reality of true crime, sometimes we need a little humor to break up the drama! Laci Mosley, host of “Scam Goddess,” brings a sense of much-needed comedic commentary to the table.

Each week, Laci is joined by a few notable guests to uncover some of the wildest scams in history. But these scams are more like robberies and racketeering not murders and other super dark sh*t. This is for everyone who loves the drama of “Scamanda” but wants a lighter take on true crime.

The Opportunist

Hannah Smith, host of “The Opportunist,” reveals how easily regular people can find themselves in deep water. It kind of sounds like Amanda Riley if you ask us! All it takes is one wrong decision in the name of “embracing opportunity” to set everything spiraling out of control.

But here’s the million-dollar question: can anyone embrace this dark potential? Does it really just take one wrong move? The show’s focus on psychological manipulation and hard-to-face truths will keep any true crime fan wanting more.

Believe in Magic

Okay, we’re leaning all into the “Scamanda” vibe here. “Believe in Magic” tells the story of 16-year-old Megan Bhari, who created a twisted version of “Make a Wish.” Not only did this gain traction in the cancer community, it also caught the attention of One Direction.

Andddd here comes the twist. Host Jamie Barlett reveals that Megan has a brain tumor, but not everyone believes it. We can’t say much more without giving things away check out the podcast to hear the rest!

Sweet Bobby

This story is crazy. Like, “there’s no way this actually happened” kind of crazy. Host Alexi Mostrous unpacks the story of Kirat Assi, a woman who was catfished for years by someone posing as a wealthy cardiologist. As if this story couldn’t get any worse, wanna guess who the catfish was? Her cousin.

Talk about jaw-dropping! You can only imagine the kind of intimate bond they formed over that time. Similar to “Scamanda,” this podcast offers a deeper look into the world of online manipulation and trust. Also, speaking of catfish, check out this episode of Scheananigans for a more comedic, light-hearted take on the topic.

The Perfect Scam

We hear a lot about the scammers themselves, but what about the people who are on the receiving end? Host Bob Sullivan hops onto “The Perfect Scam” weekly to uncover real stories and voices of people who have gotten scammed themselves.

And along with this, he interviews professional con artists and experts to give us yet another inside perspective. It’s a fascinating listen for anyone interested in identifying red flags and learning how to protect themselves.

Sympathy Pains

This 6-part series had us on the edge of our seats from the first second to the very last. Similar to “Scamanda,” “Sympathy Pains” follows the story of Sarah Delashmit, a woman who faked multiple illnesses for years. Host Laura Beli talks about alllll the things Sarah lied about, including abusive relationships, child loss, cancer, and muscular dystrophy.

Like Amanda Riley, Sarah went as far as to use a wheelchair and post hospital bed selfies. But the goal wasn’t even to get money it was to gain sympathy from those around her. You’ll have to check out the rest of the series to get the whole story.

Pretend+

From cult leaders to con artists, hosts Neal McTighe and Javier Leiva explore the dark world of true deception. They don’t just talk about the crimes, though. They wanna get into the minds of the people who commit the crimes. And honestly? We do, too!

This is just another podcast for all the listeners who really love a deep dive into the psychological manipulation that lies behind exploitation. And between stand-alone stories and multi-part series, you’ll never run out of fascinating stories to listen to.

Who the Hell is Hamish?

Greg Bearup, host of “Who the Hell is Hamish,” tells us the story of the ultimate manipulator: Hamish Watson. Hamish was originally just a regular guy from Sydney but quickly turned into an infamous serial con man.

Using romance, elaborate lies, and emotional manipulation, Hamish stole more than $7 million from women across the world. Wanna know how he was able to get away with it for so long? Tune into the 9-part series to find out.

And, if you’re craving more of this same kind of content, check out The Dating Detectives! You’ll particularly love this episode and this episode.

Carrie Jade Does Not Exist

Love true crime and psychological thrillers? Look no further; this podcast is the perfect blend of “Scamanda” and “Who the Hell is Hamish?”. Sue Perkins and journalist Katherine Denkinson explore the story of Samantha Jade Cookes a serial fraudster with a handful of different aliases.

But the creepiest part? Each alias had an entirely different personality. She played the part of a nanny, a psychologist, an au pair, a writer with Huntington’s disease… The list goes on and on. You need to give this podcast a listen.

**Which one of these podcasts are you most excited to listen to first?**

And there you have it! As much as we love “Scamanda,” we need MORE! The world of true crime is vast, and you’d be surprised at how many people are altering identities and taking advantage of kindness just to get what they want. Whether you want the unfiltered truth or a more light-hearted approach, there’s a podcast in here everyone will enjoy.

For more binge-worthy podcasts, check out these posts:

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