PRETEND is a true crime podcast about con artists

Podcast producer and host Javier Leiva has made a name for himself with his investigative reporting on true-crime shows PRETEND and CRIMINAL CONDUCT. With over 15 years of experience in television and marketing, Leiva has a talent for uncovering captivating stories, including his own involvement in a cult and the exposure of a destructive prank ring. In his latest production, Leiva delves into the world of con artist Frank Abagnale.

Leiva’s work has garnered attention from major players in the entertainment industry, including features on Netflix’s “Don’t Pick Up the Phone” and Discovery+ “Citizen P.I.”. He has also been featured in respected publications like the New York Times and the BBC. PRETEND consistently ranks as one of the top true crime podcasts in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.

 

The Stalker - PRETEND Podcast
Listen to the 18 part investigative series on the Rick and Tanya Fernandez stalker case.

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Love and Taxes

Romance Scam: Boyfriend says Jennifer Mitchell is a Con Artist in Disguise John Coutu found himself facing a daunting visit

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Ana Montes - The Cuban Spy

Ana Montes: The Cuban Spy part 2

When the lights of the Pentagon dimmed and the rest of D.C. settled into the night, Ana Montes began her covert dance as a Cuban spy. But after 17 years in this dangerous tango, her own bloodline played an unexpected role in her downfall. Dive in as we delve deeper into the captivating world of espionage, loyalty, and unexpected betrayals.

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Best of Pretend Podcast

Don't know where to start? Discover the most popular episodes here.

About the host

Javier Leiva is a podcast producer and host of PRETEND, a true-crime podcast about con artists and real people pretending to be someone they’re not. 

His investigative podcast career has taken him to some wild places. For example, Javier Leiva reported from inside a cult. In addition, he’s also interviewed a woman who sells bleach as a cure for autism. Then, he exposed a prank ring responsible for thousands of dollars in damages. 

Javier worked 15 years in television, producing documentaries, news, and commercials. Most recently, he’s worked as a creative director at various marketing agencies. But, regardless of the medium, his passion is storytelling.

Javier Leiva - Host of Pretend Podcast
Javier Leiva - Host of Pretend Podcast
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