510 - We're So Real
- Dec 11, 2025
- 48:09
- Full Episode
On today’s episode, Karen covers the letters-to-Santa scammer, John Duval Gluck.
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Brief Summary
Hosts discuss holiday traditions and the scandalous story of John Gluck, who embezzled funds from the Santa Claus Association.
Key points
- Holiday Anticipation. The hosts share their excitement for holiday decorations and treats, including peanut butter cookies.
- The Santa Claus Man. A deep dive into the origins of Santa Claus and how he became a cultural icon.
- Postal Workers' Kindness. Postal workers go above and beyond to fulfill children's Christmas wishes.
- The Santa Claus Association's Success. In 1913, the Santa Claus Association delivers gifts to over 13,000 children, boosting John's reputation.
- John Gluck's Ambitious Plans. John Gluck announces plans for a grand Santa Claus building, promising it will be a national monument to Christmas spirit.
- John's Fundraising Tactics. John Gluck raises funds for the Santa Claus building through extravagant galas and newspaper ads, despite no construction progress.
Episode highlights
- Holiday AnticipationThe hosts share their excitement for holiday decorations and treats, including peanut butter cookies.“I can't wait for those cookies that are peanut butter cookies with Hershey's Kisses on top.”1:33Dec 11, 2025
- The Santa Claus ManA deep dive into the origins of Santa Claus and how he became a cultural icon.“This is the story of New York's Santa Claus man, John Duvall Gluck.”13:29Dec 11, 2025
- Postal Workers' KindnessPostal workers go above and beyond to fulfill children's Christmas wishes.“They spend their own time and money buying the gifts on the list and then delivering them.”19:17Dec 11, 2025
- The Santa Claus Association's SuccessIn 1913, the Santa Claus Association delivers gifts to over 13,000 children, boosting John's reputation.“On Christmas of 1913 the Santa Claus Association successfully delivers to more than 13 New York City children.”29:48Dec 11, 2025
- John Gluck's Ambitious PlansJohn Gluck announces plans for a grand Santa Claus building, promising it will be a national monument to Christmas spirit.“He promises that it'll be, quote, the most unique building in America.”33:16Dec 11, 2025
- John's Fundraising TacticsJohn Gluck raises funds for the Santa Claus building through extravagant galas and newspaper ads, despite no construction progress.“He hosts ritzy over-the-top galas that bring the rich, wealthy, and charitable together in the name of giving.”37:21Dec 11, 2025
- The Rise of John GluckJohn Gluck manipulates the Santa Claus Association to create side charities for profit.“He just hides behind his famous charity.”40:03Dec 11, 2025
- The Creepy Window Crib SocietyGluck's bizarre initiative involved babies in cages for fresh air.“It's like a cat cage.”41:29Dec 11, 2025
