Fake rescues, puppy laundering, and a sketchy businesswoman: ‘Smoke Screen: Puppy Kingpin’ investigates the underground pet industry
“Smoke Screen” investigates a new story each season filled with corruption, characters with questionable morals, tricky motives, sketchy behavior, and folks living on the fringe. The docuseries has covered cult leaders, con artists, corrupt politicians and more who took advantage of people’s hearts, money, and communities, deceiving dozens along the way. Each season reveals the extent of each tale and helps serve justice to those affected.
Stream “Smoke Screen” from the beginning of each standalone season with episodes running less than an hour on average. We recommend this series for fans of investigative shows like “Tenfold More Wicked” and podcasts exposing con artists like “Chameleon” or “Swindled.”
Americans are seeing an uptick in unconventional scams, especially since the pandemic. In season 4, “Puppy Kingpin,” we learn about puppy mills and the head of an unlawful operation, Jolyn Noethe. This Iowa businesswoman harbored deep secrets and she has been accused of laundering puppies like drug money. Host and investigative reporter Alex Schuman dove into Noethe’s scheme and exposed the underground puppy mill industry with guests.
This season weeds through puppy mill businesses and how many are permitted to operate legally. Authorities hopped on Noethe’s trail after learning about “rescue puppies” and investigating. We learn about several lawsuits accusing Noethe of starting rescue organizations to sell commercially-bred puppies in places where this is outlawed. Schuman headed to Noethe’s hometown, learned her background, and a family dispute that caused Noethe to strike out on her own.
By episode 6, we hear case updates and learn about a federal class-action lawsuit filed against Noethe that could cost her around $5 million. By the last episode, Schuman spoke with a breeder who meets all USDA regulations and we learn about similar, legal breeders doing everything they can to stay on the up-and-up.
“Smoke Screen” season 1 explored “Fake Priest” Ryan Scott’s unusual conning style. Scott was accused of abusing followers and using their money for his own benefit, leaving a trail of enraged people across several states. In addition, two of his associate priests turned up dead and questions remained.
Depending on who you asked, spiritual leader Rama was considered an enlightened master or dangerous cult leader. With designer clothes, sports cars, and a rock band, Rama embodied the ’80s and drew followers with complex teachings. On season 2, host Jonathan Hirsch examines Rama’s life and death.
Season 3, “The Sellout,” shares councilperson Jose Huizar’s story. He grew up in L.A.’s Boyle Heights, a working-class Latinx community. Huizar gained the public’s trust and his constituents were shocked to learn that the FBI searched his home and offices for criminal evidence. The councilperson was accused of accepting bribes from luxury developers while people got displaced from their homes. On the podcast, journalist and host Mariah Castañeda revealed Huizar’s abuse of power and how this affected his community.
Check out new “Smoke Screen: Puppy Kingpin” episodes from The Binge this summer wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
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