What It Was Like
Conversations with people who have lived through extreme events. Some stories are dark and twisted, others are light and funny. In all cases, we get an intimate portrait of 'what it was like' to be there.Hosted by Julian MorgansA Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E75 · Thu, March 20, 2025
I Slept With New York's Elite to Rob Them
In 2009, Kari Ferrell was outed by the media for writing bad checks and robbing trust fund babies across Manhattan. Dubbed the 'Hipster Grifter,' Kari served a year in prison and is now sharing her story. In this episode, she unpacks her motivations, her methods, and what she learned about the psychology of grifting. Check out Kari's new memoir: You'll Never Believe Me . Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E74 · Sat, March 15, 2025
SCAMMERLAND: How a Fake Job Offer Landed Me in Slavery
This is the first episode of our new What It Was Like series, SCAMMERLAND. It's based on an episode we did last year, looking at how online scams are run by people living in modern slavery. We start our story with Small Q, a young Ugandan rapper and singer who thought he was traveling to Thailand for a dream job. However, everything changed the moment he stepped off the plane. Follow our new show SCAMMERLAND on Spotify , Apple and YouTube Produced by Superreal Hosted by Julian Morgans @julianmorgans Find us on TikTok : @whatitwaslikepodcast Find us on YouTube : @whatitwaslikepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E74 · Fri, March 14, 2025
How a Fake Job Offer Landed Me in Slavery
This is the first episode of our new What It Was Like series, SCAMMERLAND. It's based on an episode we did last year, looking at how online scams are run by people living in modern slavery. We start our story with Small Q, a young Ugandan rapper and singer who thought he was traveling to Thailand for a dream job. However, everything changed the moment he stepped off the plane. Follow our new show SCAMMERLAND on Spotify , Apple and YouTube Produced by Superreal Hosted by Julian Morgans @julianmorgans Find us on TikTok : @whatitwaslikepodcast Find us on YouTube : @whatitwaslikepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E73 · Fri, March 07, 2025
Wellness and Lies: My Friendship With Belle Gibson
In 2015, wellness influencer Belle Gibson was outed for pretending to have cancer. Now she's back in the headlines thanks to a new show on Netflix. In this episode we talk to a woman named Beckii Jones, who once considered Belle a friend. She ran a Facebook group for mothers in the early 2010s when Belle joined and even suggested the name for her infamous app, The Whole Pantry. Beckii reflects on the woman she knew and the parts of Belle that remain a mystery. Follow our new show SCAMMERLAND. It's based on a two-part episode we did last year on What it Was Like about scammer farms and it's on Spotify , Apple and YouTube . Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E72 · Thu, February 27, 2025
I Watched Tornado Chasing Go from Subculture to Saturation
Tornado chasing was a niche hobby when Tim Marshall started in the 1970s. But over time, he watched it grow in popularity and then explode into the mainstream with the 1996 release of the film Twister . In this episode, Tim reflects on the times he was lucky to make it home, the friends who didn't, and the "internetization" of his beloved past time. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E71 · Thu, February 20, 2025
Discovering My Grandfather's Secret Nazi Past
Julie Lindahl always knew there was something different about her family. Her German grandparents had fled to Brazil after the war, but she didn't know why. Until she discovered her grandfather was in the SS—the elite guard of the Nazi regime, responsible for some of their worst atrocities. In this episode, Julie explores guilt, accountability, and why confronting the past is the key to healing. Julie's book, The Pendulum, is available here on Amazon . Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E70 · Thu, February 13, 2025
Getting Stuck in a Washing Machine Changed My Life
In 2014, Laurence Hearn was drinking too much and struggling to make ends meet. Then he accidentally got stuck in a washing machine. What followed was a series of unexpected events that would ultimately turn his life around. This is a one-of-a-kind tale of Australian larrikinism—told by the man who lived it. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E69 · Fri, February 07, 2025
Why Did My Schoolmate Murder His Family?
In 1989, Melissa Fyfe was a high school student in Tasmania when her classmate killed his parents and younger brother. Shocked, the community buried the tragedy, leaving his motives a mystery. Now, Melissa shares what she uncovered when she finally started asking questions. Trigger warning: this episode contains child abuse themes. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E68 · Thu, January 30, 2025
The Great Australian Coffee Shop Joke War
In 2019, a man named Fraser Harvey nominated himself 'Customer of the Week' at a Melbourne coffee shop. A woman named Harriett Noall retaliated and a game of oneupmanship arose. In this episode, we hear how a private prank accidentally became an internet sensation. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E67 · Thu, January 23, 2025
We Hunted Down a Mystery Killer in the Outback
It was June 1987 and an unknown person had murdered five campers in Australia's remote northwest. In this episode, we speak with Bob Brown, the former leader of Western Australia's Tactical Response Group. Bob and his team were flown into the Kimberley region to find and arrest the murderer. But, as you’ll hear, things didn’t go exactly as planned. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E66 · Fri, January 17, 2025
I'm the Lowest-Ranked Tennis Player to Ever Win a Grand Slam
Mark Edmondson was ranked 212th when he was invited to compete at the 1976 Australian Open. He was a 21-year-old with sideburns, juggling odd jobs to fund his tennis dreams. In this episode, Mark recounts the experience of defeating his idols to win—then accidentally dropping the trophy on the podium. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E65 · Thu, January 09, 2025
Inside the Life of the Pizza Bomber
In 2003, a pizza deliveryman robbed a Pennsylvania bank with a bomb locked to his neck—a heist that ended in tragedy when the bomb exploded. The mastermind? Marjorie Diehl-Armstrong, later sentenced to life in prison. In this episode, we hear from criminologist Kathryn Whiteley who befriended Marjorie behind bars and uncovers how and why this "evil genius" orchestrated such a bizarre crime. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E64 · Thu, January 02, 2025
I Dated a Celebrity as a Non-Famous Person
Myah Morgenstern isn't famous. But when she met actor Tony Revolori, ( Spiderman, The Grand Budapest Hotel, Scream ), she was ushered into a whole new world of red carpets, VIP parties and weird social dynamics. In this episode, Myah describes her real-life Notting Hill experience of dating a celebrity as a non-famous person. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E63 · Fri, December 27, 2024
The Woolworths Christmas Bombers (Rerun)
In the lead up to Christmas of 1980, three Woolworths stores were bombed around New South Wales. It's a crazy story involving Australia's largest supermarket chain, two larrikin crooks, and a $1 million ransom thrown into the Sydney Harbour. We'll hear about it from two people: Former police officer Allan Duncan who was injured in one of the explosions, and Forgotten Australia podcast host, Michael Adams. This is a rerun from 2022 but it's one of our favourite Christmas throwbacks so we're giving it a second play. If you haven't already heard it, enjoy. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E62 · Fri, December 20, 2024
My Husband's Client Stalked Us for Years
Sandra Miller wasn't overly concerned when her therapist partner's client admitted to eavesdropping outside their window. Until this client started calling the house, relentlessly. In this episode, we dive into a real life version of 'Fatal Attraction' to learn what happens when a stalker invades a relationship.\ Check out Sandra's USA TODAY best-selling book Wednesdays at One . It's a great read. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E61 · Thu, December 12, 2024
How I Got Revenge for My Parking Fines
Julian Morgans, host of What it Was Like, gets parking fines all the time. In his own words "I could wallpaper my house with them." But instead of doing that, he's embarked on a scheme to get revenge, while learning a few things about the inner workings of the parking industry along the way. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E60 · Thu, December 05, 2024
What I Learned After 27 Years Investigating Violence Against Women
Narelle Fraser spent much of her career in Victoria's Rape and Homicide squads, placing her at the coalface of the epidemic of violence against women. In this episode, she walks us through the murder of Melbourne-mother Maria Korp, as a way to explore the mindset of men who perpetrate such violence. Keep up to date with Narelle and find links to her podcast here Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E59 · Fri, November 29, 2024
The Swiss Cult That Ended With 5 Mass Suicides (Part 2)
Between 1994 and 1997, the sect known as The Order of the Solar Temple snuffed itself out via five mass murder suicides. We spend this episode looking at what happened—and why. For further info, check out some of our sources: Qubec Coroner's Report 1996 The challenge of identification following the tragedy of the Solar Temple Solar Temple in Salvan : 25 years later, a luxury chalet on the site of the massacre Cult Horror Maims Prominent French Family : The New York Times The Philosophy of Fanaticism : Paul Katsafanas Extremes podcast: Escaping a Cult Julian interviews a Jonestown survivor Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E58 · Sat, November 23, 2024
The Swiss Cult That Ended With 5 Mass Suicides (Part 1)
In 1994, a series of ritualistic mass suicides exposed the world to The Order of the Solar Temple—a secretive doomsday sect with members spread across Switzerland, France, and Canada. In this episode, we explore how its two leaders transitioned from promoting New Age health remedies to orchestrating massacres. For more information, check out these sources: The Order of the Solar Temple: Temple of Death . Edited by James R. Lewis Apocalypse Observed by John R. Hall. Philip D. Schuyler and Sylvaine Trinh Australia Link With Swiss Doomsday Cult , The Canberra Times Reddit thread on The Order of the Solar Temple Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E57 · Thu, November 14, 2024
The NZ Dad Who Abducted His Kids to Live in the Wilderness
Tom Phillips has been hiding out in New Zealand's remote northwest with his three young children since 2021. Despite extensive searches, the family has managed to evade capture—even after Tom allegedly robbed a bank with his 10-year-old daughter. In this episode, we’re speaking with journalist Tony Wall, who’s covered the case from the beginning. He’ll share insights on those who may be helping Tom and why he’s been so difficult to catch. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E56 · Fri, November 08, 2024
How a Fake Cop Duped McDonald's Managers Into Strip-Searches
For a decade, a man posing as a police officer called fast-food chains across the US and asked managers to strip-search their employees. Dozens complied, leading to multiple cases of sexual assault. In this episode, we speak with a detective named Buddy Stump who solved the case after a friend's daughter became a victim. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E55 · Fri, November 01, 2024
My Dad Is America's Worst Serial Arsonist
John Leonard Orr is a convicted arsonist and mass murderer. He is believed to have set nearly 2,000 fires in a 30-year spree, making him the most prolific serial arsonist in American history. But his daughter Lori hasn't always seen him this way. She talks about her childhood memories of seeing John as a hero firefighter. A man who always had a special knack for being the first on the scene. Contact Lori here for a chance to win a signed copy of her book: Burned. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E54 · Thu, October 24, 2024
My Date With a Serial Killer (Rerun)
When Lorraine Murphy met up with a pig farmer at a cafe in Vancouver, she couldn't have been less impressed. "Willy," as everyone called him, was creepy and smelled terrible. She left and didn't see him again for 12 years — when Willy was arrested as the most prolific serial killer (by body count) in Canada's history. This is a rerun from 2022 but it's one of our favourites so we're giving it a second play. If you haven't already heard it, you're in for a treat. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E53 · Fri, October 18, 2024
I Barely Survived the Bali Bombing
On October 12, 2002, Phil Britten arrived in Bali with his footy mates from Perth. A few hours into their first night, a van packed with explosives detonated outside the nightclub. Phil barely made it out alive. On this anniversary of the Bali Bombing, we reflect on one of Australia’s darkest periods. Follow Phill on Instagram and check out his site . Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E52 · Thu, October 10, 2024
I Murdered Michael Jordan's Dad (Rerun)
In June of 1993 Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to their third championship victory. A month later, his dad was shot dead and Jordan quit the NBA. Now, for the first time, one of the two men convicted with James Jordan's murder tells his story. We originally published this story in 2022 but it's a banger so we're giving it a second run. Photo Credit: Lipofski Basketballphoto.com Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E51 · Fri, October 04, 2024
One Cursed Shipwreck and Four Mysterious Deaths
In the early 1960s, Melbourne businessman Marshall Gibson salvaged a handful of brass portholes from a shipwreck and gave them to his friends. Over the next few years, many of these men, including Marshall himself, died in a series of strange accidents. In this episode, his son David examines the claim that the portholes were cursed. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E50 · Thu, September 26, 2024
I'm Mad at Blake Lively too
Actress Blake Lively has been facing backlash for her alleged tone-deaf, bullying behaviour. But according to Hollywood hairstylist Emanuel Millar, this is typical behaviour among stars. In this somewhat unusual episode, we're unpacking rudeness in the film industry. Why are so many successful, beautiful people so damn mean? Photo credit: Georges Biard & Emanuel Millar Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube Follow us on Instagram A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E49 · Thu, September 19, 2024
The Quick Rise and Fall of Studio 54
Studio 54 remains the most iconic nightclub in history, despite being around for only three years. In this episode, former employee Myra Scheer delves into what made the club so legendary. It's a story about celebrity culture and the vibrant LGBTQ community before the AIDS crisis. But mostly it's about people searching for a place to belong. Photo by: Miestorm Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E48 · Wed, September 11, 2024
How Two Suicides Led to a Miracle
An R U OK Day special: Two strangers, each grieving a brother lost to suicide, meet in a support group and have a baby. It's a story that illustrates how there's always hope. Also this is your annual reminder to frequently check in with your friends and family. Ask how they're really doing. Tell them you love them. For more information please visit ruok.org.au If you're concerned about your own mental health please text Lifeline on +61477131114 or visit lifeline.org.au Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E47 · Thu, September 05, 2024
I Was Buried Alive in a Grave
Antony Britton, an escapologist and stunt performer, attempted a feat in 2015 that even Harry Houdini couldn't complete—being buried alive. In this episode, Antony recounts the crushing silence of the grave, losing consciousness underground and how the experience changed him. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E46 · Thu, August 29, 2024
I Rescue People Accused of Witchcraft in PNG
Anton Lutz grew up in Papua New Guinea, where he first heard about witch hunts in his 20s. As rates of violence and murder increased, he started to attempt rescue missions for people accused of sorcery. In this episode, he shares some harrowing stories and explains why his optimism for humanity remains unabated. For more information on sorcery accusation related violence, Anton recommends these two sites: https://www.stopsorceryviolence.org/ https://www.theinternationalnetwork.org/ Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E45 · Fri, August 23, 2024
I Photographed Princess Diana the Night She Died
On August 31, 1997, photographer Pierre Suu was outside the Paris Ritz with other paparazzi, waiting for Princess Diana. They were unaware this would be the last time she’d be seen alive. In this episode, Pierre walks us through the chaos of that night and the aftermath for everyone involved. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E44 · Thu, August 15, 2024
My Friend at Work Murdered 400 Patients
Charles Cullen might be the world's most prolific serial killer. He worked as a nurse in various US hospitals during the 90s and early 2000s, killing patients with overdoses of heart medication and insulin. Cullen's colleague, Amy Loughren, explains how she got him to confess while wearing a wire. What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E43 · Thu, August 08, 2024
My Friend, Kurt Cobain
In 1990, band manager Danny Goldberg signed an unknown punk rock band called Nirvana, embarking on one of the most significant journeys of his life. In this episode, Danny shares his experiences working with Kurt Cobain and his efforts to keep the songwriter alive. What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E42 · Fri, August 02, 2024
The Olympic Ponzi Schemer Who Vanished
Harold Backer, a 3-time Olympic rower, disappeared in 2015 after telling his family he was going for a bike ride. Days later, his financial advisory clients began receiving letters confessing to losing their money. His friend Kip unpacks what happened to Harold. Why do Olympians so often derail after retirement? Read Kip McDaniel's long-form article on the case here . What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E41 · Thu, July 25, 2024
My Journey From Mafia Enforcer to Cop-Buster
Aiden Gabor started working for the New Jersey mob as a kid. At 18, he was caught by the police and given a choice: help clean up the city or go to prison. In this episode, Aiden describes life as a police informant, putting away corrupt cops and politicians. What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E40 · Fri, July 19, 2024
I Was the Sole Survivor of a Plane Crash
In May 1970, an Air Force officer named George Burk took off from an airbase with 13 others. Minutes later, the plane suffered explosive decompression and hurtled back to the ground. George describes how luck and brute determination kept him alive. What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E39 · Thu, July 11, 2024
One Minute Remaining x What it Was Like
This week, we're playing you an episode from one of our favourite podcasts: One Minute Remaining. They're covering the story of murdered lottery winner, Abraham Lee Shakespeare, who in 2006 won a $30 million jackpot and was murdered. Dorice Moore, his friend, received a life sentence for his murder but claims she's innocent. One Minute Remaining hears her side without passing judgment. We will be back with a new episode of our own next Friday (July 19). What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E38 · Thu, July 04, 2024
I Discovered Everyone Has Forever Chemicals in Their Blood
Kris Hansen was a young chemist working at 3M when she made an unnerving discovery. She was finding 3M's chemicals not only in their workers' blood samples, but in almost everyone worldwide. Shocked, she reported her find to management, and that's when her trouble really started. What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E37 · Fri, June 28, 2024
I Brought Down Australia's Most Infamous Cult (Part 2)
It was 1987 when a detective named Lex De Man first heard of The Family. The police had raided them a few months earlier, but they'd faced no investigation over multiple claims of child abuse. This is the story of how Lex had the cult's leader, Anne Hamilton-Byrne, hauled into court. What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E36 · Fri, June 21, 2024
My Life in Australia's Most Infamous Cult (Part 1)
Ben Shenton grew up in a religious sect in central Victoria called 'The Family'. The children were told that their leader, Anne Hamilton-Byrne, was a reincarnation of Jesus Christ and were made to dress alike and bleach their hair. This continued until Ben was 15, when police raided the compound. Ben tells us about his life before and after that raid. You can buy Ben Shenton's autobiography 'Life Behind the Wire' here . What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E35 · Fri, June 14, 2024
I Rescue People From Scammer Farms (Part 2)
Last week, we covered the story of a woman sold into slavery to run scams. This week, we meet the man who rescued her. We're speaking with Judah Tana, who runs the NGO Global Advance Projects. He explains how he ended up at the epicenter of the world's scams industry and how the business is expanding. Global Advance Projects website is here What It Was Like TikTok What It Was Like Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E34 · Fri, June 07, 2024
I Was Sold Into Slavery to Run Scams (Part 1)
When today's guest boarded a plane to Thailand, she thought she was starting her dream job. Instead, she was drugged upon arrival and woke up in a nightmare. This is her story of survival in a 'scammer farm,' a hidden compound where thousands are forced to run scams. It's a story of endurance and a "one in a million" escape. TikTok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E33 · Thu, May 30, 2024
I Caught Serial Killer Ivan Milat
Between 1992 and 1993, seven decomposing bodies were discovered in bushland south of Sydney. The ensuing media storm prompted the state to hastily assemble a police taskforce. Our guest, former-homicide detective Stuart Wilkins, explains how this task force sifted through hundreds of suspects to arrest a road worker named Ivan Milat. TikTok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E32 · Fri, May 24, 2024
Rain Spencer Will Probably Be Extremely Famous
In 2022, we interviewed a Hollywood producer who predicted that unknown actress Rain Spencer would be the next big thing. Back then, Rain was in an indie film and had 100k followers. Now, she's on her third season of a streaming hit and has nearly a million followers. Today, we ask Rain what it's like slowly becoming a celebrity. TikTok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E31 · Fri, May 17, 2024
The Hurricane That Swallowed a Cargo Ship
In 2015, Hurricane Joaquin roared over the Bahamas and sank a cargo ship called the El Faro, drowning all 33 people onboard. It was a mystery how a modern US-flagged ship could sail into a hurricane until its black box was found. In this episode, Julian examines the black box transcript to discover a crew that ignored all their own instincts. Transcript from the El Faro's black box is here . The US Coast Guard's report is here . And here is an article and a book that was hugely helpful in researching this case: “The Clock Is Ticking”: Inside the Worst U.S. Maritime Disaster in Decades by William Langewiesche Into the Raging Sea: Thirty-Three Mariners, One Megastorm, and the Sinking of El Faro by Rachel Slade TikTok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E30 · Thu, May 09, 2024
Catching My Sister's Killer
In 1985, a 17-year-old girl named Shari Smith was abducted from her own driveway and the family's phone started to ring. It was the kidnapper, his voice electronically distorted. He called repeatedly and it fell on Shari's 21-year-old sister Dawn to answer. In this episode, Dawn Smith Jordan recalls what she learned that week about her parents, her sister and her own resilience. TikTok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E29 · Thu, May 02, 2024
I Photograph Private Jets for Mega-Billionaires
When someone in the Saudi royal family buys a private plane, they usually want someone to photograph their new toy. And that's where Nick Gleis comes in. For over 40 years he's been photographing private jets for the world's richest people. On today's ep, Nick shares some stories about his clients and talks about the time he accidentally flew into a tornado. Check out Nick's photos of obscene luxury on his site, here . TikTok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E28 · Thu, April 25, 2024
Living Next Door to Mass Killer Martin Bryant
On April 28, 1996, a man named Martin Bryant fatally shot 35 people at the Port Arthur historical site in Tasmania. For siblings Lorraine and Mick Davies, who had grown up next-door to Bryant, the massacre was not entirely surprising. In this episode, they recount the tragedy's long build-up. Mick Davies is also an actor and comedian. You can follow his work on Instagram . TikTok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E27 · Thu, April 18, 2024
I Had Sex in an MRI Machine for Science
In 1991, Ida Sabelis and her partner had sex in an MRI tube, yielding an image that showcased the internal mechanics of copulation and gained global press coverage. Today, we delve into their experience and learnings. What's it like, exactly, to have sex inside a piece of medical equipment? TikTok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bonus · Fri, April 12, 2024
Bonus: A Hollywood Production Designer on the Art of Time Travel
Thanks to Hollywood, most of us have some idea of how it looked to live in the past. But historical recreation is a delicate dance. As part of our partnership with Paramount+ for the release of A Gentleman In Moscow , we're unpacking the art of time travel. The show's production designer, Víctor Molero, describes how he couldn't find a historical hotel to film in, so he built one from the ground up. And the hotel they built was a medley of fact and fiction. A Gentleman In Moscow is Now Streaming only on Paramount+ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E26 · Thu, April 11, 2024
Someone Broke Into Our House. Then it Got Weird.
Tim and Amanda came home to find their place had been trashed. Someone had broken in, but that's just the beginning. Join us on this very bizarre yet surprisingly funny story of a home invasion. Tiktok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E25 · Thu, April 04, 2024
Julian Asks a Psychopath for Personal Advice
Psychopaths are famous for not caring about anyone. But Julian Morgans, host of this show, tries to please everyone. It's a losing battle, so in this episode he asks a psychopath for advice. M.E. Thomas is a lawyer and diagnosed psychopath. She shares her story of losing friends and jobs due to a lack of people pleasing, and shares her tips for caring less. Tiktok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E24 · Thu, March 28, 2024
My Husband, the Mass Shooter
When Marie Monville married her high school sweetheart, Charlie, she believed it would be forever. But on October 2, 2006, Charlie committed one of America's worst mass shootings before taking his own life. Today, we ask Marie the big question: what were the signs? Her answers might surprise you. Tiktok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E23 · Wed, March 20, 2024
Meet the Steampunk Godfather of Synthetic Drugs
In the early 2000s, Matt Bowden spearheaded drug law reform in NZ by selling safer alternatives to meth. His "party pills" made millions, and Matt spent his money shooting steampunk video clips as his rocker alter-ego, Star Boy. On this ep, we hear how Matt set out to make positive change, but inadvertently pioneered a market of synthetic drugs. Tiktok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E22 · Wed, March 13, 2024
I Was Missing for 33 Years
That's how old Steve Carter was when he stumbled upon a photo of himself on a missing person website. Raised in a Hawaiian orphanage and adopted at age four, Steve's biological roots were always a mystery. On today's episode, he tells the story of his own disappearance. Tiktok Youtube Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E21 · Wed, March 06, 2024
The Mystery of the Woman With Toxic Blood
In 1994, a cancer patient named Gloria Ramirez was wheeled into a Californian hospital, where medical staff began passing out while treating her. Our guest, Dr. Julie Gorchynski, tells us what really happened that night. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E20 · Wed, February 28, 2024
How a Dream Led to a $3.5M Gold Nugget
In 1980, an Australian gold prospector named Kevin Hillier dreamed of finding gold. The dream was so vivid he sketched the nugget's shape on paper. Then, 12 days later, he and his wife Bep unearthed a record-breaking nugget with the same shape. Was this luck, a hoax or divine intervention? Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E19 · Tue, February 20, 2024
We Made 'Blair Witch' for $40K. It Earned $249M.
In 1999 the world was captivated by 'The Blair Witch Project,' a low-budget horror film that broke profit-to-cost records. On this week’s episode, co-director Daniel Myrick describes how it felt being at the centre of a cultural phenomenon, and what he learned about achieving dreams. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E18 · Tue, February 13, 2024
Carl Williams Is Still My Valentine
Carl Williams is Australia's most famous drug kingpin. In the early 2000s he made untold millions trafficking party drugs while having his rivals murdered. But to his wife Roberta, he was a loving husband. In this special episode for Valentine's, Roberta Williams talks love and loss. Here's what it's really like to be a mob boss wife. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E17 · Mon, January 15, 2024
Julian Investigates a Missing Person Mystery
In July of 2000, a young man named Steven Goldsmith withdrew money from an ATM in Brisbane and vanished. Julian Morgans, host of What it Was Like, investigates the case in an effort to understand the broader phenomenon of people going missing, leading to an unsettling discovery. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E16 · Wed, December 27, 2023
Filming 'Titanic' and Someone Drugged Our Soup
On August 9, 1996, the cast and crew of Titanic ended a big day of shooting with a seafood dinner. An hour later, around 40 people started feeling queasy, including director James Cameron. Later, it would turn out that somebody had spiked the clam chowder with a hallucinogenic drug called PCP or 'angel dust'. In this episode, assistant camera operator Jamie Barber tells us how the crew ended up in hospital, dancing in a conga line. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E15 · Thu, December 14, 2023
I Was an Escort for a Billionaire Prince
Jillian Lauren was working as a New York escort when she was invited to a mysterious audition. The job? Fly to the Southeast Asian nation of Brunei and live in a harem run by Prince Jefri, who was the playboy brother of the richest sultan on Earth. Jillian took the gig, and on this episode, she walks us through her three years of hedonism, cruelty, and opulence on a scale few of us ever witness. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E14 · Tue, November 28, 2023
I Discovered Snowtown's Bodies in Barrels
In May 1999, police discovered eight bodies decaying in barrels in the vault of a disused bank in Snowtown. Three men were later jailed for the murders of 12 people, in one of the longest and most publicised trails in Australian history. And our guest had front-row seats to the whole saga. Gordon Drage is a former-senior constable with the South Australian police. He'd been sent to Snowtown to investigate stolen property, only to accidentally stumble across the bank vault. He tells us what it was like, and how the experience affected him in the years after. Find us on TikTok Find us on Youtube A Superreal production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E13 · Thu, February 02, 2023
The Party That Ended the 90s: Woodstock ‘99
In July of 1999 it was the 30th anniversary of Woodstock. The original organisers wanted another festival dedicated to love and peace, but this one became a disaster. The crowd rioted, setting fire to food trucks. Dozens were arrested, including our guest, Calvin Cardwell. On this episode, Calvin and his friend Chad Yantis describe their memories of the riot, and the details that the Netflix documentary, Trainwreck, missed out on. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E12 · Tue, December 20, 2022
The Woolworths Christmas Bombers
In the lead up to Christmas of 1980, three Woolworths stores were bombed around New South Wales. It's a crazy story involving Australia's largest supermarket chain, two larrikin crooks, and a $1 million ransom thrown into the Sydney Harbour. We'll hear about it from two people: Former police officer Allan Duncan who was injured in one of the explosions, and Forgotten Australia podcast host, Michael Adams. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E11 · Tue, December 06, 2022
The Lovers That Burned Down 77 Houses
When abandoned farm houses started catching fire in rural Virginia, police weren't sure what to think. It took five months and almost 80 fires for a couple to be arrested and the story to emerge. In this episode, convicted arsonist Charlie Smith explains how he and his ex-partner lit fires to relax when their relationship soured. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E10 · Fri, August 05, 2022
I Discovered Brad Pitt
Lauren Lloyd had just co-founded a Hollywood talent agency when she met a pimply kid from Missouri named Brad. He was in his early 20s, but had a certain confidence that she found mesmerising. She knew instinctively he would be a movie star, and we're spending this episode unpacking what she saw and knew in that moment. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E9 · Mon, July 18, 2022
I Bought a Haunted Witches' Prison
Vanessa Mitchell thought she was buying the home of her dreams. Sure, it was a medieval prison for English peasants accused of witchcraft, but it was also cute and within her price range. But then her possessions started vanishing and she found a mysterious pool of blood on the floor and three years later she was out, fleeing with her son. This is Vanessa's story of what happened. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E8 · Sat, July 09, 2022
Russia's Abandoned Spaceships
Through the 1980s the Soviet Union poured vast amounts of money into building reusable spaceships for crewed missions. This was the Buran programme, which was cancelled after the USSR collapsed. Today, many of these prototype spaceships are rusting away in Russian military hangars in Kazakhstan. We speak to a man who journeyed to find them. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E7 · Wed, June 22, 2022
I Murdered Michael Jordan's Dad
In June of 1993 Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to their third championship victory. A month later, his dad was shot dead and Jordan quit the NBA. Now, for the first time, one of the two men convicted with James Jordan's murder tells his story. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E6 · Tue, June 14, 2022
I Bought a Cruise Ship
When three business partners bought an ex-P&O cruise liner, they thought they were creating the co-living space of the future. Their plan didn’t work, but they did get to briefly own a 1000-room ship. We’re asking former co-owner Grant Romundt what it was like sailing the vessel to Panama, and how he spent Christmas Day exploring locked rooms and riding water slides. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E5 · Thu, May 26, 2022
My Date With a Serial Killer
When Lorraine Murphy met up with a pig farmer at a cafe in Vancouver, she couldn't have been less impressed. "Willy," as everyone called him, was creepy and smelled terrible. She left and didn't see him again for 12 years — when Willy was arrested as the most prolific serial killer (by body count) in Canada's history. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E4 · Wed, May 18, 2022
How I Outsmarted 'The Price Is Right'
In 2008 a man named Terry Kniess guessed the exact price of the finale prize on The Price Is Right and was accused of cheating. But Terry hadn't cheated. He'd just obsessively watched the show until he spotted a vulnerability, and then exploited it. We asked Terry how he did it. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E3 · Fri, March 11, 2022
I Caught the Real 'Wolf Creek' Killer
Colleen Gwynne was a police officer in Alice Springs when one of Australia's biggest murder cases landed on her desk. A British couple named Peter Falconio and Joanne Lees had been attacked by an unknown gunman, and Joanne had survived by running off into the desert—a scene which later inspired the film Wolf Creek. Here Colleen describes how she tracked down the killer. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E2 · Fri, March 11, 2022
The Man Who Heard Too Much
Born blind, Matthew Weigman became an angry teenager with a supercharged sense of hearing. This enabled him to use his phone like a hacker uses a computer. Here Matt describes how he used his superpowers to harass celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and Eminem, until the FBI caught up with him. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E1 · Fri, March 11, 2022
I Humanize Killers
Jennifer Wynn's job is to make jurors feel sympathy for people who've committed horrible crimes. She talks to us about some of the killers she's met, and how she's come to understand their perspectives and motives after unpacking their tragic lives. Hosted by Julian Morgans A Superreal Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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