Mega Edition: Johanna Sjoberg's Deposition In The Maxwell/Virginia Roberts Suit (Part 9-10) (8/7/25)
Episode recap: Johanna Schoberg deposition analysis and key testimony
This episode reviews Johanna Schoberg's deposition about her time in Jeffrey Epstein's Palm Beach household, focusing on reported requests for photographs, massage expectations, and the role Ghislaine Maxwell played in recruiting other women. The host parses testimony details, timeframes, and what the witness did — and did not — see or personally experience.
Camera gift, Canon Rebel 35mm, and implications for sexual favors
The deposition highlights a 2002 exchange where Schoberg says Maxwell offered a Canon Rebel 35mm camera and referenced Schoberg "not finishing her job," an implied reference to sexual completion. The witness said she never completed nude photos for Jeffrey, felt uncomfortable taking body shots, and no longer had the 35mm camera.
Massage expectations, progression to intercourse by 2005, and recruitment
Schoberg explains that massage sessions evolved into expectations of sexual activity. She said by 2005 there was an expectation she would have intercourse with Epstein. Maxwell allegedly suggested bringing other women to "take pressure off" her, a comment the witness interpreted as sexual. The deposition includes accounts of swaps during massage sessions, skinny-dipping sightings, and towel-covered interactions.
Photographs at the Palm Beach house and witness observations
The witness described numerous photos on Palm Beach house walls, acknowledging some could have been nude but not overtly pornographic, and she did not identify any underage individuals in the images. She also confirmed she saw famous people present at the house, such as Michael Jackson, but did not witness sexual acts with those visitors.
Attorney interviews, recordings, and scope of knowledge
Schoberg recounted follow-up phone conferences with Virginia Roberts' attorneys and could not confirm whether interviews were recorded or whether she had been designated a victim. Much of her knowledge about Epstein's behavior came from things he told her, not from firsthand observation of alleged sexual misconduct involving other girls.
Why this matters: timelines, documents, and next steps
The episode emphasizes cataloging depositions and documents to build timelines and provide context for broader allegations. As more records are released, the podcast intends to systematically add documents so listeners can trace claims, corroborate testimony, and better understand discrepancies in reports and police interviews.
Listen for- Specific references to the camera, photography requests, and the pre-selfie era logistics
- Testimony asserting a 2005 expectation of intercourse with Epstein
- Descriptions of photographs on walls and which images the witness recalled
- Attorney follow-ups and protective-order confidentiality designations
