While working on the new season of Pretend, I wanted to bring back an episode from 2018 that’s worth another listen. It’s the story of Art Schlichter, a former Ohio State football star whose gambling addiction wrecked his life—and the lives of others. One of those people was Anita Barney, the widow of a Wendy’s CEO, who lost everything after trusting the wrong person.
This isn’t just a story about gambling. It’s about how someone can slowly gain control over another person’s life and bank account, one small ask at a time.
✔ How Art Schlichter went from an NFL draft pick to a convicted con artist
✔ The way he pulled Anita Barney into his schemes
✔ How quickly financial fraud can spiral out of control
📖 Quarterback Sneak – Anita Barney’s book about what happened
📌 Follow Pretend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pretendpod/
If someone you trusted took advantage of you, I’d like to hear your story. Send a voice memo to [email protected].
💡 Rate & Review! If you liked this episode, leave a review and share Pretend with a friend.
🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned – More episodes coming soon.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices