DeepSummary
The episode begins with the story of Jason Russel Waller, whose father was a con man who constantly moved the family around to evade the law while pulling various scams. Jason shares anecdotes from his childhood on the run, including his father's charming personality and ability to provide fun experiences despite their circumstances. However, Jason's dreams were shattered when his father stole the money he had saved for an acting career.
The second story is about Ron Cohen, an artist who created an anonymous persona to display his artworks, sparking interest and controversy in the art world. While initially successful, the ruse caused hurt feelings when it was revealed that Ron was the mysterious artist all along, especially for his wife who had defended the anonymity.
The final story is from Shannon Cason, a bank manager who stole $50,000 from his workplace to gamble at a casino after accumulating debts. Despite losing all the money, Shannon received a lenient sentence due to Detroit's overburdened legal system at the time. He reflects on his addiction and the constant temptation he faces.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Dishonest behavior is often rationalized through false promises or the belief that the ends justify the means.
- Deceit and betrayal can have far-reaching impacts on personal relationships and loved ones.
- Even after facing consequences, addictive impulses and the temptation to act dishonestly can persist.
- Conning others is sometimes motivated by a desire to provide fun experiences or a sense of adventure.
- The human capacity for self-deception allows dishonest narratives to gain traction.
- Charming personalities and the ability to manipulate others' beliefs enable many cons and scams.
- Legal consequences for dishonest actions may be mitigated by overloaded legal systems or unintended leniency.
- Finding moments of levity or perspective can provide temporary relief from guilt and struggles with addiction.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “We were sold on sort of this yellow brick road idea that we're going down this road, but it's leading to somewhere that's bigger, brighter.“ by Jason Russel Waller
- “I needed people believing in to build up the art, to build up the belief myself. People's belief in it made it stronger.“ by Ron Cohen
- “The money hung heavy in my pockets, even in my belt strap. I felt like a drug runner going through customs.“ by Shannon Cason
- “Humor always makes me feel better, at least for a little while. Gives me a perspective.“ by Shannon Cason
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Episode Information
Snap Judgment
Snap Judgment and PRX (paloma.orozco@prx.org)
1/4/24
A charming father wins just about everyone over until his criminal ways force his family on a ten-year journey running from the law. A secret artist becomes an art world sensation but unearths a family scandal. And a bank manager who loves to gamble gets into trouble.
Sometimes the con job hits close to home.
STORIES
Con Man Daddy
You’re young, fun, and on the run from the law. One kid’s journey across the Deep South leads to a big confrontation with the man who inspired it all… Con Man Daddy.
BIG thanks to Jason Russel Waller as well as his brothers, Randy and Kel, for sharing your story with Snap!
Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot
The Art Of The Con
What if the real story is even better than the fake story they made up? A secret artist, an art world sensation, a family scandal.
Thanks, Ron, for sharing your story with us!
Produced by Andrew Stelzer with support from Anna Sussman
Insidious by Shannon Cason LIVE
And a bank manager who loves to gamble gets into trouble.
This story was told live by Shannon Cason at Snap LIVE in Los Angeles. Original music by Alex Mandel and Tim Frick.
Snap Classic - Season 15 - Episode 1