Planet Money · Friday, August 14, 2026
Scott Page's personal life, marked by a struggle with his sexuality and a desire for a lifelong partner, led him to enlist in the Air Force. He later found love with Greg, but their plans were disrupted when Greg was diagnosed with AIDS. Facing financial hardship, Scott discovered a way to leverage Greg's life insurance policy, a situation that inadvertently contributed to the development of the life settlement industry.
“What Scott really wanted was to find somebody he could share his whole life with.”
“I didn't tell you I have AIDS because I was afraid if I did, I would have never had the chance for you to get to know me.”
“And so Scott planned to make Scott the beneficiary.”