Social Sciences Great Con Artists 1/18/22

Wicked Games: Great American Con Artists

Counterfeiting, scams, blackmail and deception. Con games come in many forms, from shell games on the street to Ponzi schemes that promise huge returns and end with monumental losses. What makes con artists so successful, and why do we fall for their tricks? Join Lindsey Schwartz, award-winning television producer, as she shares stories and lessons from a career in which she reported on many con artists. First, Schwartz examines the different types of cons and looks at the 20 most notorious con artists in U.S. history, including Charles Ponzi, Bernie Madoff and George Parker (who sold the Brooklyn Bridge). Next, guest speaker Jonny Grusing, special agent with the FBI, explains why some people are easily conned and compares traits that the great con artists have in common. Schwartz also reveals some of Colorado’s most notorious con artists. In week three, Schwartz examines human behavior and why we are vulnerable to the con artist. What leads us to trust people we don’t know or believe people who offer us something unrealistic? Last, Schwartz discusses the terrible reality that con artists sometimes take more than money—they take lives. She shares stories from her reporting and examines the most evil of cons. Finally, learn the telltale and subtle signs that a con may be afoot. Come away with insights into why cons work and tips for spotting con artists in your own life.

Four Zoom sessions

Tue., Jan. 18, 25, Feb. 1, 8, 2022, 6:30–8:30 pm MT ENRICH 0588 / $140

Lindsey Schwartz is an award-winning television producer and writer, having produced for 48 Hours, Dateline NBC and CBS News. In 2020, she wrote and produced two episodes of a series for MSNBC called What’s Eating America. She currently works for 20/20, ABC News.