New Season of Pretend Podcast about self-proclaimed true crime mogel Ladonna Humphrey
It's got everything.
Arson. Death Fetish. Online harassment. Bullying. Victim shaming. Tampering with cold case evidence. Leaked crime scene footage. Intimidation tactics. Thousands of spoof emails and burner texts. A Fake Baby. Unauthorized background checks. Evaded taxes. Jail time. Over 3 million dollars. Catfishing. Murder accusations.
It's Baby Reindeer meets Tiger King without the tigers (so far).
So, does this sound like the podcast for you?
Check out the (always updated) episode guide below.
Listen for free on Podchaser here.
Patreon here:
https://www.patreon.com/collection/574604?utm_campaign=collectionshare_fan&utm_content=android_share
Part 1: available everywhere
LaDonna Humphrey. Remember that name, as she is the linchpin of this story. Summarizing this tale succinctly has proven impossible; every attempt at an elevator pitch falls short. When friends ask about this new series, I find myself at a loss for words. It’s simply too complex to explain in just a few minutes.
Javier will recount the story as he learned it: completely out of order. By the end, you’ll feel like you need a suspect board straight out of a detective movie. You’ll hear some astonishing allegations from various individuals—strangers united by one common thread: their encounters with LaDonna Humphrey.
This narrative is filled with conflicting accounts, and Javier strives to verify or debunk each claim. This series will be a lengthy journey, unfolding in real-time as you listen. By the end, he hopes to have provided enough information for you to form your own conclusions and understand why so many people are afraid of LaDonna Humphrey.
Part 2: available everywhere
In this episode, we delve into the disturbing allegations against LaDonna Humphrey in connection with the Melissa Witt case. Crime victim advocate Patti Rush recounts her experiences, revealing that Humphrey, once considered an ally, was allegedly responsible for years of harassment and deceit. From stolen evidence to dubious motives, we uncover the complexities of this enigmatic figure.
Part 3: available everywhere
In Part 3 of “Who’s Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey,” we delve into the fierce conflict between Anthony Christopher and LaDonna. Anthony, LaDonna’s former boss, recounts his harrowing experience of harassment, accusing LaDonna of relentless attempts to ruin his life and career. From sending spoof emails to conducting unauthorized background checks, LaDonna’s actions culminated in a legal battle that resulted in her imprisonment for destroying evidence and contempt of court, and awarded Anthony a multimillion-dollar judgment.
BONUS: Who's Afraid Series – Not Everyone’s a Fan
Available on plus subscriptions and Patreon.
"My new series, Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey, has been generating a lot of buzz. While many of you are intrigued, not everyone's a fan. Today, we're discussing the criticisms and counter-narratives from LaDonna Humphrey and her supporters."
Part 4: available everywhere
After 13 years in the shadows, LaDonna Humphrey, known for past harassment allegations, resurfaces to become entangled in the arson investigation of her former boss and preacher, Jon Allen. As the flames of the past reignite, investigators uncover a tangled web of manipulation, embezzlement, and vindictiveness. Why has LaDonna returned after all these years to discredit the Allens, and what does this mean for the longstanding accusations against her? This episode revisits one of her earliest cases of alleged deceit and retribution.
Part 5: available everywhere
LaDonna Humphrey faces accusations of relentlessly pursuing Daniel Watson, "D," as a suspect in the unsolved murder of Melissa Witt. Watson, who has consistently asserted his innocence, claims in this interview that Humphrey is unfairly targeting him, allegedly driven by personal and financial motives.
Later in the episode, Julie Murray, whose sister Maura Murray disappeared in 2004, shares her own contentious experience with Humphrey. Initially cooperative, the Murray family grew suspicious of Humphrey’s intentions, ultimately accusing her of fabricating evidence and misrepresentation.
BONUS: The Dark Side of the True Crime: Julie Murray's Encounter with Dr. Arpad Vass - available on plus subscriptions and Patreon.
In this episode, we delve into the emotional and perilous journey families endure while seeking closure in the true crime world. Julie Murray shares her family’s harrowing experience with Dr. Arpad Vass, a discredited forensic anthropologist who claimed he could locate Maura Murray’s unmarked grave using his questionable invention. Julie recounts how Vass convinced her family they had found Maura’s remains, only for his methods to prove unreliable and inconclusive, further traumatizing the Murray family.
BONUS: LaDonna and the Magical SIM Card - available on plus subscriptions and Patreon.
In this bonus video episode, we dive into the suspicious circumstances surrounding the theft of LaDonna's cellphone, uncovered AT&T phone records, magical SIM cards, and bizarre exchange of messages with her former friend Patti Rush.
Part 6: available everywhere
In the first segment of an exclusive interview with LaDonna Humphrey, we delve into the accusations and controversies that have surrounded her. Javier poses challenging questions to LaDonna, aiming to uncover the complex details of her narrative. Additionally, we hear perspectives from some of LaDonna’s supporters.
Part 7: available everywhere
Welcome to Part 2 of an exclusive interview with LaDonna Humphrey. In this episode, we delve into the intense controversy surrounding LaDonna’s alleged ties to the death fetish community and her supposed identity as “Fetish Master.” LaDonna shares her perspective, and we also hear from her supporters, who have endured significant harassment. We explore why these accusations continue to surface and their profound impact on those close to her.
BONUS: "The Evidence" - This bonus episode of PRETEND is available for free to all listeners on Patreon.
Listen to the aftermath of my two-part interview with LaDonna Humphrey. After the conversation, LaDonna sent Javier a series of lengthy emails. Today, we're only focusing on the first email. This email includes her responses to the accusations against her and additional "evidence" she claims exonerates her.
Part 8 - listen everywhere
To truly understand LaDonna Humphrey, we must explore her childhood. In an exclusive interview, her sister recounts the years of harassing messages and relentless vendettas that have torn their family apart. This episode illuminates the deep-rooted conflicts that have shaped LaDonna’s tumultuous life.
BONUS: To Profit or Not to Profit? That is the Question.
Available on plus subscriptions and Patreon.
In this bonus episode, we delve into the controversy surrounding LaDonna Humphrey and her non-profit organization, Oasis of Northwest Arkansas. We uncover recent revelations about the organization’s loss of tax-exempt status, allegations of financial mismanagement, and the broader implications for the community it serves.
Part 9: available on plus subscriptions and Patreon.
Content Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault.
We’ll explore the controversy surrounding Humphrey’s alleged use of a death fetish account to harass her co-host, despite her denials. We’ll also attempt to unravel how LaDonna transitioned from vehemently opposing the death fetish community to seemingly befriending its members. Additionally, we’ll examine her controversial efforts to implicate Daniel Watson in Missy Witt’s murder, despite the apparent lack of evidence.
BONUS: Meet Jessica Brown
Available on plus subscriptions and Patreon.
In this bonus episode, we dive into the world of the Erotic Peril. Jessica Brown shares her encounters with LaDonna Humphrey, revealing how LaDonna initially approached her under false pretenses, leading to accusations of harassment and doxxing incidents.
Part 10 - Everywhere
Today, Pretend scrutinizes LaDonna Humphrey's non-profit world, focusing on her troubled history with charities. Our investigation reveals a pattern of failed ventures, harassment accusations, and questionable financial practices.
Part 11 - Everywhere
Every charity organization led by LaDonna Humphrey seems to crumble under the weight of controversy and financial mismanagement. Today, we turn our focus to Oasis of Northwest Arkansas, a sober living facility under LaDonna’s direction. Our investigation uncovers disturbing accounts of harassment, financial mismanagement, and overcrowded, unsafe living conditions.
A former resident of Oasis shares her harrowing experience at the facility. She recounts how donations intended for her baby shower were allegedly kept by LaDonna, leaving her without the promised support. Residents describe living in cramped conditions, with up to 15 women and children in a house meant for nine. Basic amenities like smoke detectors, working washers, and air conditioning are often missing or broken.
We’ll also delve into the nonprofit’s questionable accounting practices. Oasis’s financial records reveal suspicious entries, such as LaDonna working 65 hours per week for only $15,600 annually and unexplained professional fees amounting to $58,000.
LaDonna is accused of using intimidation tactics, such as threatening to evict residents over minor infractions and enforcing arbitrary fines for damages, creating a culture of fear and control.
BONUS: Oasis promised paradise, but their books are a financial mirage - plus & Patreon
In this bonus episode of PRETEND, we take a closer look into the financials of OASIS of Northwest Arkansas, a nonprofit organization under scrutiny for alleged misappropriation of funds. This episode features a conversation with a nonprofit expert who provides an objective analysis of Oasis's Form 990s and financial practices. We dissect the available financial documents, raising questions about transparency, financial management, and the implications of potential misconduct.
BONUS: Swing and a Miss - Everywhere
"Javier, aren't you worried that LaDonna might target you next?" That's the question I get asked most frequently. The answer is too late.
Even before this series dropped, LaDonna began sending me spoof emails. I've received various messages, including some from fake accounts, and even attempts to hack into my podcast platform. Additionally, LaDonna tried other creative ways to obstruct my investigation and stop the legitimate reporting of her abusive behavior toward others.
PART 12 - Everywhere
The last episode on OASIS of Northwest Arkansas sparked quite a reaction. After the episode aired, we've heard a lot from inside the facility itself, and it seems our investigation has hit a nerve.
The OASIS sober living houses are buzzing, and the atmosphere inside the facility has shifted dramatically. Some residents feel a sense of relief, finally seeing their struggles brought to light. Others worry about the potential fallout and what exposure like this might mean for their recovery journey and their homes.
Given these reactions, I traveled to Bentonville, Arkansas, to speak with two former OASIS managers. They shared eye-opening accounts of their experiences under the leadership of LaDonna Humphrey. They described a strict hierarchy at OASIS, comparing it to an authoritarian cult.
We also dug into some of the more troubling allegations against OASIS. Both former managers raised concerns about financial transparency—or the lack thereof. Many residents are left wondering where the money they contribute goes and why they are in the dark about the organization’s finances. This lack of clarity, combined with the psychological manipulation and fear tactics described by the former managers, makes the case why control and compliance are prioritized over recovery and support.
Hearing these personal stories, it’s clear why these managers felt compelled to leave. They expressed deep concern for the women still residing at OASIS.
BONUS: Oasis Manager Extended Interview - plus, patreon
In this bonus episode... listen to an extended interview with Melissa, a former manager of OASIS of Northwest Arkansas.
You will also, get a preview of the next episode surrounding the Melissa Witt murder investigation. I spoke with a witness who interacted with a serial killer the day Melissa disappeared. Plus, we preview the upcoming Melissa Witt docu-series on Hulu titled "Witt's End."
Part 13 - Everywhere
"I wasn't expecting to make this episode... but here we are. A former OASIS resident sent me hundreds of voice memos and screenshots. It's a rare peek inside the sober living facility run by LaDonna Humphrey."
Part 14 - Everywhere
"I’ve been investigating the Melissa Witt case for a while now, and just when I thought I had a handle on it, a new lead dropped into my lap. In this episode, I sit down with Patti Rush, a victim advocate who might have uncovered the most crucial piece of evidence yet. We’re talking about a case that’s been so warped by misinformation that even those closest to it can’t tell what’s real anymore. But now, we’re pulling on a thread that could unravel the whole story—and maybe, just maybe, lead us to the truth about who really killed Melissa Witt."
Part 15 - Everywhere
"We continue our investigation into Charles Ray Vines and his potential involvement in the Melissa Witt murder. In this episode, we track down Vines’ former neighbor and friend, Thomas Seymour. Seymour claims that he spoke with Vines just before Vines was heading to the bowling alley to meet a girl named Melissa. What other information does Seymour have that could shed light on this 30-year-old mystery?"
LaDonna: A Series of Unfortunate Events - Bonus, Plus and Patreon
"In this episode of PRETEND, we’re walking through the wild and messy timeline of LaDonna Humphrey’s life. If you’ve been trying to keep track of everything—from Melissa Witt’s case to the more recent legal drama—you’re not alone. Thankfully, longtime listener Jessica created a detailed timeline to help make sense of it all, and today, we’re breaking it down.
We’ll start with the early days, back in 1994 with the disappearance of Melissa Witt, and work our way through the twists, scandals, and court cases that have followed LaDonna over the years. You’ll hear about the accusations, the strange stories, and all the little details that connect the dots in ways you might not expect."
Part 16 - Patreon, Plus (everywhere soon)
"Can you believe this is the 16th episode of our investigation into LaDonna Humphrey—a story that, honestly, I didn’t think would last this long. But here we are.
Now, if you’ve been following along, you know this has been a wild ride. LaDonna, once a respected figure in the true crime community, has become the center of some truly shocking accusations. Stealing evidence from the Fort Smith Police Department? Allegations of harassment? Manipulating people for her own gain? It’s been hard to keep up, even for me.
In this episode, we’re going to get a little help in trying to make sense of it all. I brought in retired FBI profiler Julia Cowley—yes, the Julia Cowley, the one who worked on the Golden State Killer case. She’s going to help us break down LaDonna’s behavior and offer some insight into why someone might go to such extreme lengths to control others. You might be surprised by some of the parallels she draws between white-collar criminals and more violent offenders.
We’re also going to revisit some of the disturbing messages that LaDonna has allegedly sent to her victims. And I’ll share some new evidence we’ve uncovered—evidence that links multiple harassing messages to a phone number connected to LaDonna herself. It’s the kind of proof that, quite frankly, is hard to ignore.
But here’s what makes this episode different: today, we’re not just looking at the past. We’re asking what’s next for LaDonna Humphrey. With court cases, potential criminal investigations, and a growing list of accusers, is the end finally near for her? Or is this just another chapter in a never-ending saga?"
Call to Action:
If you’re as concerned as we are about the allegations against Oasis of Northwest Arkansas, we urge you to take action. Contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at tabitha.davis@arkansasag.gov or call 501-682-1306. You can also raise awareness by posting on social media with the hashtag #justiceforoasis.
Much more to come!
Find Pretend, Who's Afraid of LaDonna Humphrey on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/collection/574604?utm_campaign=collectionshare_patron
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For more information and updates on Maura Murray's case, visit mauramurraymissing.org.
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