2403: The Cancer Sympathy Machine part 3
PRETEND
12/02/25
•41m
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Harry spent nearly two years believing the woman he loved was dying of brain cancer. He stood by her for every surgery, organ failure...None of it was real.
In this episode, Harry walks us through the emotional fantasy Rachel built.
Want the full story?
🎧 Listen to The Rachel Cancer Scam
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Hn5De466DmCIN8Sppw5Ik?si=6ba6b8cee95e4697
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rachel-cancer-scam/id1772955263
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Previous Episode
Listener Reaction: The Cancer Sympathy Machine
November 28, 2025
•20m
In this bonus episode, Ali, one of my longtime Patreon supporters, reached out after listening to the Cancer Sympathy Machine series.
Ali talks openly about her past with addiction, stigma, Hep C treatment and why some people hide the truth about what they’re really going through.
I’m also sharing two listener stories about friends, classmates, and loved ones who faked cancer.
Thanks to everyone who’s reached out, shared stories, and supported the show. And if you’ve got something you want to talk about, send it my way: javier@pretendradio.org
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Next Episode
2404: Open Enrollment, Open Season for Scammers
December 9, 2025
•28m
This is the story of Simple Health Plans, a $150 million health insurance scam that preyed on desperate Americans and left thousands buried in medical debt. We'll meet Dawn, who nearly fell victim to their scheme, and Steven Dorfman, the mastermind who spent over a million dollars on jewelry while his customers discovered their "insurance" was worthless.
With Open Enrollment happening right now, scammers are out in full force. This episode will help you spot the red flags and protect yourself.
PROTECT YOURSELF - ESSENTIAL RESOURCES Verify a Company is Legitimate: - NAIC.org - Find your state insurance commissioner - Google: Company name + "scam" or "complaint" Shop for Real ACA Health Insurance: - HealthCare.gov - Federal Marketplace - LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov - Get free help from navigators Report Fraud: - ReportFraud.FTC.gov - File FTC complaint - Contact your State Insurance Department RED FLAGS: ✗ Not listed with state insurance department ✗ Pressure to sign up immediately ✗ Won't provide documents before purchase ✗ Suspiciously low prices ✗ Can't ask questions during "verification"
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