Dirty John: The Ultimate Conman | Lesser Known People Podcast Who Was Dirty John? John Meehan, better known as Dirty John, wasn't just a liar—he was a master manipulator, a scam artist, and a predator who left a trail of destruction in his wake. With a history of deception, drug addiction, and psychological abuse, Meehan's story is one of the most shocking true crime cases of modern times. In this episode of Lesser Known People, we dive deep into the twisted life of John Meehan, unraveling the web of deceit that made him infamous. Buckle up, because this story isn't just about fraud—it's about survival. The Making of a Monster From an early age, Meehan learned that manipulation could get him whatever he wanted. A smooth talker with a charming facade, he conned his way into relationships, careers, and financial schemes. Despite earning a nursing degree, his medical knowledge became a tool for deception rather than healing. His favorite victims? Women who trusted too easily and loved too hard. The Scams, the Lies, and the Red Flags Meehan's past was littered with restraining orders, false identities, and elaborate lies. He used his charm to infiltrate the lives of vulnerable women, stealing money, faking injuries, and even staging elaborate hoaxes to gain sympathy. By the time Debra Newell, his most famous victim, entered the picture, Meehan had already perfected his con. Debra Newell & The Deadly Showdown Debra, a wealthy interior designer, fell for Meehan's carefully curated facade. He claimed to be a doctor, a war hero, and the perfect gentleman—but his mask quickly started to slip. As Debra's family began digging into his past, the horrifying truth unraveled. What followed was a battle of wits, manipulation, and survival, culminating in a life-or-death confrontation that no one saw coming. If you don't know how this story ends, trust us—you'll want to listen to the full episode. Why Dirty John Still Haunts Us Today John Meehan's story is a chilling reminder of how easily people can be deceived by sociopaths who know exactly what to say and do. His crimes have been covered in documentaries, the Dirty John podcast, and a Netflix series—but Lesser Known People tells it with the humor and brutal honesty you won't get anywhere else.