In Episode 17 of Fool Me Twice, hosts Bradford Oakes and Steve Van Aperen explore one of the most provocative and complex topics in modern relationships, cheating, deception, and the psychology that drives it.

The episode opens with the usual light-hearted banter between the hosts before quickly shifting into a deeper and more confronting conversation about infidelity. Bradford shares a personal story about being cheated on, highlighting the emotional impact and the lasting effect that betrayal can have. This leads into a broader discussion about trust, honesty, and the behaviours people exhibit when they are being deceptive.

Drawing from his professional experience, Steve explains that a significant portion of his work involves investigating allegations of cheating. He breaks down how lie detection works in practical terms, including the use of polygraph testing and newer technologies like EyeDetect. He explains that it is not necessarily the act of lying itself that is detected, but rather the psychological stress and fear of being caught that creates measurable physiological responses. He also touches on the importance of analysing clusters of behaviour rather than relying on a single sign of deception.

A major focus of the episode is the Ashley Madison data breach. The hosts revisit how the site, which was specifically designed to facilitate extramarital affairs, was hacked in 2015, exposing the personal details of millions of users across the world. They discuss the irony of a platform built on secrecy and deception being undone by its own lack of security and questionable practices, including the presence of fake profiles.

The fallout from the breach is explored in detail, from public shaming and damaged relationships to extortion attempts and widespread panic. Steve also shares firsthand insight into how the scandal led to a surge in people seeking lie detector tests after discovering their partner’s details linked to the site.

Throughout the episode, Bradford and Steve examine the concept of partial admissions, where individuals reveal only part of the truth as a way to minimise consequences. They also discuss the role of emotion in decision making, particularly how vulnerability and desire can make people more susceptible to manipulation and scams, especially in the world of online dating.

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In Episode 16 of Fool Me Twice, Bradford Oakes and Steve return, now recording from their newly finished podcast studio in South Melbourne, for a wide ranging and engaging discussion on deception, perception, and human behaviour. The episode opens with Steve reflecting on his recent return trip from China, where a mix of golf, alcohol, and a brief speaking engagement left him both rejuvenated and full of stories. This sets the tone for a deeper exploration into how often we encounter deception in everyday life.

From airport experiences to retail environments, the hosts unpack how easily consumers can be misled. Steve shares examples of inflated “duty free” pricing, while Bradford breaks down the psychology behind marketing tactics designed to manipulate perception. They explain how framing and emotional triggers influence decision making, often leading people to believe they are getting value when they are not.

The conversation then shifts to larger systemic issues, including scrutiny of major retailers and their pricing strategies. Bradford draws on his background in law enforcement to compare these practices to criminal deception, highlighting the double standard between individuals and corporations. He explains how fines imposed on large companies often fail as deterrents, as the costs are typically passed on to consumers. The discussion raises important questions about accountability, transparency, and whether current penalties are enough to change behaviour.

A standout moment in the episode comes when Bradford recounts an experience at Revolver nightclub. While enjoying a night out, he was approached by a couple awkwardly asking where to buy “ecstasy tablets”, instantly revealing themselves as inexperienced undercover police. The story provides both humour and insight into the nuances of deception, emphasising how authenticity and attention to detail are critical when attempting to blend in.

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In Episode 15 of Fool Me Twice, hosts Bradford Oakes and Steve Van Aperen unpack the fascinating and often flawed world of alibis. Blending true crime with behavioural analysis, they explore how people attempt to construct believable cover stories, and more importantly, how those stories unravel under scrutiny.

Steve breaks down the true definition of an alibi, proof you were elsewhere when a crime occurred, and explains how it differs from a simple excuse. The episode dives into common types of alibis, including unsupported claims, social alibis involving friends, digital alibis, partial timelines, and overly detailed accounts that raise suspicion. Along the way, the hosts discuss hedging, a key linguistic behaviour where liars soften statements to avoid being caught in a definitive lie.

A major focus of the episode is the case of Dezi Freeman, who was accused of shooting two police officers in Porepunkah before being located months later near Thologolong. The discussion highlights how fugitives may rely on others for protection, raising questions about false alibis and aiding offenders after the fact. Steve also shares firsthand insight into the elite Special Operations Group (SOG), describing their tactical precision and recounting a personal training experience that demonstrates just how effective they are in high risk situations.

The episode also explores how modern investigations dismantle alibis using digital evidence such as phone data, CCTV, bank records, and forensic analysis. Steve explains the concept of cognitive load, why lying is mentally demanding, and how inconsistencies often emerge when someone fabricates a story. He also highlights the importance of separating witnesses, analysing timelines, and identifying missing details that can expose deception.

Book Steve Van Aperen as your next keynote speaker: Click here

Get coached in stand-up comedy with Brad Oakes: Click here

Learn more about Fool Me Twice by visiting www.foolmetwice.com.au

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.