In this episode, Johnny sits down with Luis “Spider” Gutierrez, a longtime Northern California gang figure and former leader within the Norteño structure, to tell one of the most intense and unfiltered prison stories ever shared on the podcast. Raised in Salinas, California—one of the most gang-impacted cities in the state—Spider was convicted of attempted murder and sentenced to decades in California’s most violent Level IV prison yards. What followed was nearly 20 years of nonstop war behind the walls: mass riots, stabbings, political power struggles, and surviving situations most inmates don’t live to talk about. Spider breaks down: -What it’s really like to enter prison already marked for war -How Northern California gang politics actually function on the yards -100-man riots, organized violence, and surviving multiple gunshot wounds -The reality of loyalty, reputation, and respect inside high-security prisons -Why he never dropped out—and how he eventually made it home alive This is not a glamorized story. It’s raw, graphic, and brutally honest—told by someone who lived every second of it and is still dealing with the aftermath today. Go Support Spider! IG: https://www.instagram.com/level4fitnessnorcal/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/CONNECT Mando! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at Mandopodcast.com/MITCHELL! #mandopod PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Meet Spider - Notorious Prisoner 02:30 Life in Salinas: Growing Up in the Gang Epicenter 10:00 From Athlete to Gangster: What Drew Me to the Streets 14:30 Joining and Rising in Nuestra Familia 19:00 Attempted Murders and Sentencing: My Case 25:30 This Episode Is Sponsored By HIMS! 27:27 Walking Into War: Reception to First Riots 32:00 Yard Wars & Violence: Surviving and Fighting in Prison 39:30 Seven Years of War: Northern Politics & Respect 49:00 Major Riot: 4 Against 100+ and Getting Shot 52:24 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mando and PrizePicks! 55:10 Cell Phone, Smuggling & Making Money Inside 01:07:00 Staff Relations: Manipulating and Networking with COs 01:15:30 Contraband Hustles: Drugs, Phones & Profits 01:22:00 Running Salinas Valley: Power, Status & More Riots 01:33:00 Stabbings, Politics & Staying Alive 01:44:30 Infamy and Respect: Becoming the Northern Spartan 01:53:00 Stabbing My Cellmate: The Story Behind It 02:09:00 Hole, SHU, and Working the Politics 02:18:00 The End of the Stretch: Getting Released & Reflections 02:26:00 Aftermath: Returning Home, Living Free, and Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

OG Gigavelli is a certified Miami original — born into violence, shaped by the streets, and forged in some of the most brutal prisons in America. OG breaks down a side of Miami history almost never discussed: the Black and Islander underworld that operated alongside — and often beneath — the Cocaine Cowboys era. From Liberty City and Brownsville to federal penitentiaries and near-death prison riots, this is a raw, unfiltered account of survival, crime, and eventual transformation OG came up during the wild 80s and 90s, where robbery was second nature, violence was currency, and the streets raised kids faster than families ever could. He details: -Seeing dead bodies as a child in Miami -Carjackings and robberies in broad daylight -The structure of Miami’s Black drug economy before it was ever “professionalized” elsewhere -Stabbings, race wars, and near-fatal ambushes inside state and federal prison -How Islam and time forced him to confront who he had become This isn’t glorification — it’s documentation. A firsthand account of a world most people only know through movies like Scarface or Cocaine Cowboys, told by someone who actually lived it. Go Support OG! YouTube:  @WhatTheyDoPodcast305  Book: https://a.co/d/2iiDBlo IG: https://www.instagram.com/og_gigaveli TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gigaveli Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 OG Gigavelli's Violent Origins & Miami Streets 05:36 Life in the Miami Hood & Early Hustle 12:00 Structure of Miami Drug Trade 19:03 Island Influence & Culture in Miami Crime 26:27 Transition to Robbery & Early Trouble 33:03 Juvenile Prison: Survival & Violence 40:28 Rising in Street Hierarchy & Prison Politics 45:06 State Prison: Robbing from Inside 53:34 Confrontations, Transfers, & Release 01:01:01 Struggles with Release & Cycle of Incarceration 01:06:34 Running a Trap and Chasing Fast Money 01:13:53 CM: The Harshest Lockdown in Florida Prisons 01:19:21 Post-Prison Hustling & Out-of-Town Moves 01:27:32 The Ecstasy Era & Big Hustles in Tennessee 01:34:08 Getting Caught: Counterfeit Money & Fed Indictment 01:41:58 21 Years in the Feds & Road to Redemption 01:46:11 OG Gigavelli's Books, Podcast & New Message 01:52:39 Miami Legacy, Final Reflections & Sign-Off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive episode of The Connect, Johnny sits down with Danesa White, better known as Bella Barcode — a former Oakland hustler who built a multi-million-dollar fraud and jewelry embezzlement operation before the age of 21. Raised in the heart of the Bay Area hustle, Danesa breaks down how she went from boosting clothes as a teenager to running sophisticated bank fraud, credit card approval schemes, and high-end jewelry thefts across all 50 states. At her peak, she was clearing hundreds of thousands of dollars a day, selling stolen diamonds, watches, and luxury goods to NFL players and major drug dealers — all while living a jet-set lifestyle that included Dubai, Miami, New York, and beyond. -In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Bella Barcode explains: -How early-2000s bank and credit card fraud actually worked -How jewelry stores could be forced into approving six-figure purchases -The psychology of confidence, misdirection, and playing the role -The moment everything collapsed — arrests, probation violations, and a federal case -Serving 7 years in federal prison and what women’s prison is really like -Why she finally chose to tell her story — and the price that came with it Today, Danesa has turned her life around and is inspiring others through her autobiography Recidivism: Beauty Before Bars, proving that survival, accountability, and redemption are possible — even after losing everything. This is one of the most detailed breakdowns of white-collar street crime ever told on the podcast — and a powerful cautionary tale about how fast money can disappear just as quickly as it comes. Go Support Danesa! Website: https://www.itsbellabarcode.com/ Book: https://a.co/d/ajXBp6y IG: https://www.instagram.com/itsbellabarcode_/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bellabarcode Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bella.barcode This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! Rocket Money! Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to https://rocketmoney.com/connect today. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro & Guest Overview 01:27 Life in Oakland & Family Background 03:35 First Hustles and Growing Up 07:46 Mastering the Bank Fraud Game 13:30 Taking the Hustle Nationwide 20:36 Scaling Up: Diamonds & High-End Stores 25:00 Inside the Diamond Game 34:24 Living Large: Lifestyle & Risks 36:33 Today's Sponsors 39:26 Making Mistakes & Legal Scrapes 43:00 Jewelry Licks & Giant Scores 50:54 How the Scam Actually Worked 55:00 The Downfall: Getting Caught 01:02:08 Federal Prison & Doing Time 01:13:01 Coming Home: Reentry & Building Again 01:18:45 Personal Growth & Female Bosses 01:24:48 Redemption: New Career & Book 01:28:01 Reflections & Life Lessons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it really look like to live as a professional high-stakes gambler at the very top of the casino food chain? In this episode, Johnny sits down with RJ “Chip” Ryan — a legendary blackjack whale who spent decades betting millions per hand in casinos from Atlantic City to Las Vegas to Macau. RJ tells the raw, unfiltered story of how he went from a broke gambler driving to Atlantic City with his last $5,000, to carrying $10 million in checks, flying private jets, rubbing shoulders with billionaires and celebrities, and taking casinos for millions of dollars at a time. RJ is also known to many as “Robin Hood of Las Vegas” from the Cocaine Cowboys universe — the man who helped launder cartel money through casinos, later cooperating with the feds and offering a very different version of events than what’s been told on screen. This episode dives deep into: -The real math and psychology behind winning at high-stakes blackjack -How casinos court, reward, and ultimately try to break whales -Blowing millions in a single night — and coming back the next day to win it all back -Private jets, penthouse suites, celebrity parties, and casino politics The emotional toll of gambling, addiction, loyalty, karma, and survival -RJ’s personal reckoning after caring for his mother, losing everything, and betting his life on one final run This is not a glamorized gambling story — it’s a brutally honest look at the highs, lows, wins, losses, and moral gray zones of a life lived on the edge. Stick around until the end and decide for yourself: Was RJ a genius, a degenerate, a hustler — or all three? This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Ridge! Take advantage of Ridge’s Biggest Sale of the Year and GET UP TO 47% Off by going to https://www.Ridge.com/CONNECT #Ridgepod CashApp! Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/1ekoiacn #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement. Cash App Green, overdraft coverage, borrow, cash back offers and promotions provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. Betterhelp! This December, start a new tradition, by taking care of you. Our listeners get 10% off at https://betterhelp.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: High Stakes Gambling Stories 01:19 Growing Up in Philly & The Family Hustle 04:44 Early Gambling Influences & Lessons 08:09 Professional Gambling: Setting Goals 13:19 The Turning Point: Mother’s Illness and Debt 16:35 This Episode Is Sponsored By RIDGE 18:25 Building a High Roller Reputation 29:01 Life as a Whale: Jets, Parties & Big Wins 36:46 Vegas High Roller Lifestyle & Big Losses 43:34 A Word From Today's Sponsors 46:15 International Gambling & Casino Barred Stories 01:00:53 Advanced Blackjack Strategy & Discipline 01:12:12 Vigilante Gambler: Involvement With Law Enforcement 01:28:01 The Robin Hood 702 Charity Era 01:37:08 Australia, Owen Hanson & The Money Laundering Allegation 01:58:46 Confrontations, Lawsuits & Truth vs. Documentary 02:12:08 Working with the Feds: Taking Down Criminals 02:31:02 Cartel Connections & Final Reflections 02:38:44 Outro: The High Roller’s Ongoing Journey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive episode, Johnny sits down with Aaron Peila — a former multi-state Oxy distributor who survived five brutal years inside USP Victorville, one of the deadliest federal prisons in America. From running a massive opioid pipeline across Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest to navigating the violent racial politics of high-security federal lockup, Aaron pulls no punches as he breaks down his story in raw, unfiltered detail. Aaron explains how he built an oxy empire during the height of the opioid boom, how pills flowed through dirty doctors and retirement communities, and why markets like Alaska were paying exorbitant prices. He also opens up about the corruption inside the Bureau of Prisons, the influx of contraband phones after COVID, and what it really takes to survive in a place where everyone has a weapon and people get stabbed regularly. From music-industry ambitions and touring with rap artists…to DEA pressures, federal enhancements, snitches, RICO fears, and the three overdose deaths that nearly put him away for life… to trying to rebuild a life after 14 years inside a system designed to break you — this is one of the most gripping redemption-arc interviews we've ever had. If you want a real look into the American opioid era and the prison machine that chews up everyone involved, this episode is it. Go Support Aaron! Clothing Brand: https://cceapparel.creator-spring.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/aaronpeila/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@peilaroni This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/CONNECT Rag & Bone! Upgrade your denim game with Rag & Bone!. Get 20% off sitewide with code CONNECT at www.rag-bone.com #ragandbonepod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Aaron Peila's Story 01:22 Life Lessons From Prison 02:47 Reentering Society and Social Changes 03:47 Prison During COVID: Corruption & Phones 06:06 Prison Gangs & Racial Politics 08:36 Hustling Evolution: Weed to Pills 14:42 The Rise of the Pill Game 20:30 Building a Multi-State Operation22:49 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 24:29 Shipping, Networks, and Profits 33:33 Money Laundering & Legal Strategy 40:33 Getting Busted: The Pistol Case 49:41 Indictments, Conspiracy, and Betrayal51:57 This Episode Is Sponsored By Rag & Bone 54:15 Federal Sentencing & Prison Transfers 01:15:41 USP Victorville: Arrival & Politics 01:27:18 Race, Cars, and Prison Politics 01:34:37 Putting in Work: Removals and Demos 01:47:00 Violence, Stabbing, and Survival Skills 01:58:12 Hustles and Addiction Inside Prison 02:08:04 Getting Released: Transfers and COVID 02:18:16 Reflection, Growth, and Forgiveness 02:31:18 Life After Release & New Beginnings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Step inside one of the most legendary — and misunderstood — eras in American crime history. For the first time ever, Whitey Sullivan, the right-hand man to Washington D.C.’s infamous drug lord Rayful Edmond, sits down on camera to finally set the record straight. Whitey was there for all of it — from Rayful becoming a teenage millionaire valedictorian and star basketball player… to building a cocaine pipeline from Los Angeles to D.C.… to overseeing multi-ton shipments every single week. He counted the money, managed the crews, and stood beside Rayful during the DEA’s most dramatic kingpin takedown of the 1980s. His power, influence, and empire continued to shock law enforcement for decades. Today, Whitey is breaking decades of silence to reveal: - How Rayful became the most successful urban drug dealer of his generation - The violence, rules, loyalty — and mythology — of D.C.’s streets - The truth about the federal case, the media, and the betrayals - Rayful’s plan to go legit… and why nobody truly walks away - Never-before-told stories of wealth, danger & survival This is the raw, unfiltered story the streets still whisper about — straight from the only man qualified to tell it. This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Superpower! This holiday, give your loved ones the only gift that keeps on giving — health. Go to https://Superpower.com/gift to get a free $49 gift box with your gifted membership. Rocket Money! Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to https://rocketmoney.com/connect today. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Setting the Record Straight 02:25 Rayful Edmond: Origins and Early Hustle 07:57 The Rise: Childhood to Drug Kingpin 18:13 Starting Out Pre-Crack Era 25:21 Transitioning to Cocaine and Expansion 30:57 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 33:36 Running DC: Growing the Empire 41:01 Scaling Up: Bricks, Stash Houses, and Riches 57:41 Life as a Young Insider 1:00:42 This Episode Is Sponsored By Rocket Money 01:02:12 Rayful's Connections and the Colombian Cartel 01:14:48 Organization Structure and DC’s Drug World 01:29:02 The Crack Era: Streets & Violence 01:43:44 The Indictment: Raids and Arrests 01:56:00 Jail, Trials, and Surviving the System 02:14:09 The Second Case: Inside Prison Operations 02:30:09 Sentencing, Appeals, and Release 02:37:13 Coming Home: Release and Final Days 02:44:31 Rayful Edmond's Death and Legacy 02:56:53 Setting the Record Straight: The Real Story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today’s episode Johnny sits down with legendary DEA agent Chris Feistl — one of the most effective and consequential drug enforcement agents in U.S. history. Chris personally arrested Miguel and Gilberto Rodríguez Orejuela, the elusive bosses of the Cali Cartel, widely considered the most powerful drug trafficking organization of all time. If you watched Narcos Season 3 on Netflix, you’ve already seen part of his story — Chris is the real-life blond agent portrayed in the series. In this extended interview, Chris opens up about the rise of the Cali Cartel, the downfall of Pablo Escobar, and the hidden history behind the bloody wars that reshaped Colombia forever. He breaks down the complex structure of the cartel, their revolutionary “cell system,” their political influence campaigns, and the global smuggling routes that made them richer than Medellín ever was. Chris also pulls back the curtain on his own journey — from a 20-year-old Jersey Shore seasonal cop, to busting multi-ton Miami cocaine loads, to chasing the most dangerous traffickers on Earth in the streets of Cali. He reveals what Narcos got right, what it didn’t, and the shocking tactics used by the Rodriguez brothers, North Valley Cartel, and paramilitary groups like the AUC. If you’re fascinated by cartel history, undercover work, international manhunts, or the real story behind Narcos, this is a must-watch. 📘 Pick up Chris Feustel’s bestselling book, After Escobar — available wherever books are sold. https://www.afterescobar.com/ 🎧 Get the bonus episode with Chris: ➡️ https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Mood! Head to https://mood.com to find the functional gummy that matches exactly what you're looking for, and let Mood help you discover YOUR perfect mood. And don't forget to use promo code CONNECT when you check out to save 20% on your first order. PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! 🔥 Topics Covered: -Chris Feistl’s path to the DEA and early undercover work -Miami in the late ’80s — the cocaine capital of the world -The true origins of the Cali Cartel -How the Rodriguez Orejuela brothers built the most sophisticated trafficking network ever -Their political infiltration strategy and the failed “Submission to Justice” deal -How DEA agents cracked the cartel’s encrypted communication and cell structures -The manhunt in Cali and the real events behind Narcos Season 3 -The rise of the North Valley Cartel & the AUC paramilitary death squads -Why Colombia today exports more cocaine than ever -What the show got right — and wrong — about the DEA’s role 00:00 Intro & Chris Feistl's Background 04:00 Becoming a DEA Agent 09:00 Early Law Enforcement Stories 13:00 Miami, Drug Boom & Cartel Landscape 18:00 Rise of the Cali Cartel 20:54 This Episode Is Sponsored By MOOD 22:55 Cartel Structures & Operations 30:00 Medellín vs. Cali: Different Styles 34:00 Working DEA Cases in Miami 39:00 DEA Recruitment, Spanish & Moving Overseas 46:00 Arrival in Colombia & Prepping for Cali 47:23 This Episode Is Sponsored By PRIZEPICKS 49:48 The Surrender Deals & Narcos Accuracy 56:00 1994 Colombian Elections & Cartel Political Influence 01:00:00 DEA Operations on the Ground 01:05:00 Navigating Corruption in Colombian Police 01:09:00 Breakthrough: High-Level Sources & Raids 01:15:00 Capturing Gilberto Rodriguez 01:22:00 Turning Jorge Salcedo & Targeting Miguel 01:30:00 The Operation for Miguel Rodriguez 01:39:00 The Final Raids & Arrests 01:47:00 Extradition, US Sentences & Aftermath 01:54:00 Legacy, War on Drugs & Modern Challenges 02:04:00 Corruption & Reflection on History 02:05:00 Final Thoughts & Book Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny sits down with Pete Polis — a former Long Island baseball standout who went from MLB prospect… to becoming one of the largest dealers in Washington state history. Pete’s story sounds like something ripped straight out of Breaking Bad. After a promising baseball career with stints in the Blue Jays and Yankees organizations, a series of self-sabotaging choices pushed him out of the sport he loved. Settling into small-town life in Washington, Pete lived straight — raising kids, running a furniture store, and even building a massive food bank that fed hundreds of thousands. Then one conversation in his garage changed everything. What started with OxyContin and fentanyl patches evolved into full-scale trafficking. Pete quickly found himself moving hundreds of pounds of meth and heroin weekly, working directly with suppliers tied to the Sinaloa cartel. He watched the early waves of America’s fentanyl crisis from the inside — and unknowingly helped introduce the drug that would devastate the region. After a federal takedown and serious prison time, Pete is now fully legit, running sober-living homes and helping addicts rebuild their lives. This is a wild, emotional, and brutally honest look at how fast a normal life can turn criminal — and how redemption is still possible. Need help staying sober? Check out Pete's sober-living homes. https://www.seasonshousing.org/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Mando! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com ! #mandopod Ridge! Take advantage of Ridge’s Biggest Sale of the Year and GET UP TO 47% Off by going to https://www.Ridge.com/CONNECT #ridgepod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Pete's Early Life & Baseball Dreams 07:45 Growing Up Around Crime & Sports 13:00 Minor League Baseball: Challenges and Setbacks 23:00 Early Baseball Problems & Canada 26:03 Start Smelling Good With MANDO 28:16 Fight, Ejection & Minor League Life 32:45 Success in Sales, Setbacks, and the Road to Tri Cities 44:30 Falling Into Drug Circles and New Temptations 46:57 Get Up To 47% OFF At Ridge 48:43 First Steps Into Opioid Dealing 55:50 Prescription Pills and Fentanyl Patches 01:03:00 Cartel Connections & Expanding Operations 01:11:00 The Furniture Store Double Life 01:20:00 Rising Paranoia and Deeper Into the Game 01:31:30 Fentanyl Changes Everything: Addiction and Fallout 01:40:50 Addiction, Violence, and the Law Closing In 01:47:30 Getting Caught: Law Enforcement and Sentencing 02:03:00 Withdrawal, Consequences, and Reflection 02:09:30 Building a New Life After Prison 02:13:50 Seasons Housing and Redemption 02:15:30 Conclusion and Bonus Content Announcement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful, deeply personal interview, Tanc walks us through a life shaped by gang culture, prison time, cartel connections, near-death situations, and ultimately—transformation. From his early days in the California state system to navigating the dangerous world of cross-border drug trafficking, he breaks down how major operations moved product from Peru and Mexico into the U.S., what it was like coordinating “jumps” across the border, why warehouses sat full of hundreds of untouched bricks, and the razor-thin line between survival and disaster. He also opens up about fatherhood changing his mindset, the struggle to find legitimate work after prison, facing racism while trying to re-enter society, and how community college became the unlikely start of a new path. This episode dives into: -His final state bid and what made him leave gang life behind -How he became involved with high-level cartel operators -The logistics behind massive cross-border drug shipments -The paranoia, betrayals, and close calls that come with the lifestyle -The moment he knew the feds were closing in -How education and family pulled him toward a different life Go Support Tanc! Protein Ice Cream: https://www.californiaiceprotein.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: BetterHelp! This month, don’t wait to reach out. Whether you're checking in on a friend, or reaching out to a therapist yourself, Betterhelp makes it easier to take that first step. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at https://betterhelp.com/connect Mood! Head to https://mood.com to find the functional gummy that matches exactly what you're looking for, and let Mood help you discover YOUR perfect mood. And don't forget to use promo code CONNECT when you check out to save 20% on your first order. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Meet Tanc & Background 02:12 Growing Up in South Central LA 06:33 Early Crime, Robberies, and Bank Heists 13:35 Gang Life, Juvenile Time, and State Prison 25:29 Coming Home & Trying to Go Legit 27:15 Discovering the Hollywood Club Scene 29:59 Today's Sponsors 33:51 First Taste of Ecstasy—And Seeing $$ 36:40 Growing a Multi-Million Dollar Ecstasy Empire 45:47 Making Hollywood Connections & Living Large 53:23 Transitioning from Ecstasy to Cocaine 58:52 Meeting 'O' & Forming a Powerful Partnership 01:10:36 Into the Cartel World—International Drug Running 01:17:12 Cross-Border Operations & Stash Houses 01:31:15 Expanding to the East Coast: New York Hustle 01:41:11 Money Movement, Laundering & Risk 01:48:42 Scaling Up: Cartel-Level Distribution 02:00:06 The Fed Problem: Informants, Encounters & Risk 02:08:48 Busts, Betrayals & The Fall 02:19:12 Getting Pinched: Arrest, Indictments & Snitches 02:33:03 Concluding the Case & Lessons Learned 02:44:00 Life After Prison & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Author Matt Cox joins the show to unpack an online conspiracy linking country megastar Garth Brooks to clusters of disappearances and unsolved homicides—claims that exploded from Tom Segura & Christina P’s Your Mom’s House meme into a crowdsourced rabbit hole. We stress: these are allegations and speculation, not proven facts. Still, Matt walks us through why some internet sleuths think the timelines and tour stops are suspicious, how “organized” offenders evolve, and what retired profilers and a former tour roadie allegedly told him about the logistics that make this theory feel possible. In this episode (allegations discussed): -The YMH spark and why the guest decided to write a book with a formerly incarcerated co-author. -What “heat-map” patterns of missing persons around tour dates might suggest—and where that logic breaks. -Interviews with retired FBI profilers, criminologists, a Hollywood producer, and an anonymous roadie (under NDA). -Early cases near Oklahoma State University, the move to Nashville, and a controversial first big purchase: 300 acres of rural land. -Touring mechanics: slipping away between load-ins, rest-stop encounters, and the “suitcase” hypothesis. -Vegas residency years, access to a private jet, and why some claim disappearances spiked. -Why a simple on-air appearance could defuse the rumor—and why that may never happen. Go Support Matt! Book: https://a.co/d/gV8O25l Podcast: @InsideTrueCrime This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: FRE! Listeners get 20% off their first order at https://FREPOUCH.COM when you use code CONNECT at checkout. That’s 20% your first order with code CONNECT. CASHAPP! https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/1ekoiacn #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement. Discounts and promotions provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. MANDO! As a special offer for listeners, new customers get 20% off sitewide with our exclusive code. Use code MITCHELL at https://ShopMando.com for 20% off sitewide + free shipping. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introducing the Gar Brooks Conspiracy 01:55 About Matt Cox & Deep Dive Into the Case 04:05 Origins of the Viral Conspiracy Theory 07:00 Research Methods & Eliminating False Leads 10:30 Victim Patterns & Serial Killer Psychology 13:40 Serial Killers and Childhood Trauma 16:50 Gar Brooks' Childhood and Personality 19:20 This Episode Is Sponsored By FRE! 22:21 How the Theory Went Viral Online 23:00 Brooks' Silence & Celebrity Response 27:05 Linking Tour Dates to Disappearances 31:50 Early Homicides and College Years 36:00 The Nashville Years & First Record Deal 40:51 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cashapp and Mando! 44:32 Touring Lifestyle and Opportunities 48:05 Logistics: How Could Brooks Commit the Murders? 55:00 Connecting the Dots: Victim Demographics & Methods 01:03:00 The Vegas Residency & Private Plane Theory 01:09:00 Patterns Around Properties & Geographic Profiling 01:14:15 Recent Cases & Modern Technology Challenges 01:23:50 The Chris Gaines Alter Ego & Disassociation 01:31:15 Developing the Book & Challenges of Proof 01:35:45 Law Enforcement, Evidence, and Cold Cases 01:45:00 Psychological Profile: Narcissism, Lies, and Motivation 01:52:00 Circumstantial Evidence & Patterns 01:59:15 The Most Damning Cases and Eyewitness Accounts 02:06:00 Can Gar Brooks Ever Be Investigated? 02:10:00 Final Thoughts, Book Details, and Call to Action Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In one of the most unbelievable redemption stories ever told, Johnny sits down with Dave Franke, a man whose life has taken him from the streets of North Hollywood to the front lines of Mexico’s war against the cartels. After losing custody of his daughter, he made the unthinkable choice — to move to Zacatecas, Mexico, and join the state police, fighting the same cartels that once supplied the drugs that nearly killed him. He opens up about: -Growing up amid gang violence and drug addiction in 1980s Los Angeles -Surviving attempted murder charges and life on the run -Finding faith and redemption after nearly losing everything -His shocking experience inside the Zacatecas State Police — from brutal training to real-life gun battles with cartel convoys -Corruption, U.S. involvement, and what it’s really like to fight the cartels from the inside Raw, intense, and deeply human — this episode dives into the darkness of addiction, the chaos of Mexico’s cartel war, and the unlikely redemption of a man who walked through both. Go Support Dave! Website: https://www.davefranke.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Ava! Download the Ava app today, and when you join using my promo code CONNECT20, you’ll save 20% for your first year—monthly or annual, your choice. Surfshark! Go to https://surfshark.com/connectmitchell or use code CONNECTMITCHELL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Ridge! Upgrade your wallet today! Get 10% Off @Ridge with code CONNECT at https://www.Ridge.com/CONNECT #Ridgepod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Violence in Mexico & Dave Franke's Quest 02:32 Dave's Background: Childhood & Gang Life in LA 08:26 Falling Into Drugs & Drug Dealing 13:19 Addiction, Violence & Attempted Murder 21:56 Rock Bottom and Getting Sober 24:18 This Episode Is Sponsored By AVA! 26:27 Losing Custody & The Move to Mexico 27:57 Motivation: Fighting the Cartels 29:34 State Police: Joining & Training in Mexico 35:34 Corruption, Human Rights & Reality of Policing 41:13 This Episode Is Sponsored By SURFSHARK and RIDGE! 45:46 Cartel Wars: Operations, Shootouts & Survival 55:49 Life in Zacatecas: Convoys, Shootings & Daily Danger 01:06:06 Cartel Corruption, Moles & Betrayal 01:21:05 Election Violence & Political Corruption 01:43:33 Did He Make a Difference? Reflections on Violence 01:49:49 Leaving the Force, Law School, & Life After 01:57:46 Reflections on Mexico & Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this gripping episode, Johnny sits down with security expert Ed Calderon to break down the brewing storm across Latin America — from U.S. military posturing near Venezuela to narco-terrorism, drone warfare, and covert operations in Mexico. Ed warns that the “War on Drugs” is being rebranded as a war on narco-terror, granting governments new powers while blurring the lines between criminals, rebels, and civilians. They discuss how cartels are adopting drone and submarine tech, how Colombian mercenaries are shaping global conflicts, and why Mexico may already have U.S. boots on the ground. From fentanyl myths to Venezuelan oil politics, rare-earth resources, and the future of North American geopolitics, this episode dives deep into the shadow war few are talking about. -U.S. and Venezuela tensions -Covert ops and “narco-terrorism” narrative -Drone and submarine warfare by cartels -Rare-earths, oil, and geopolitical motives -Mexico’s internal corruption and militarization -Predictions for a continental conflict Go Support Ed! Website: https://www.edsmanifesto.com/ Merch: https://sneakreaper-industries.com/ Podcast: @manifestoradionetwork3191 IG: https://www.instagram.com/manifestoradiopodcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Inside Colombia’s hidden war, where guerrilla armies, drug cartels, and corrupt officials fuel the world’s cocaine trade. This documentary takes you deep into the jungles, barrios, and killing fields that the media never shows. Former hitmen and cartel soldiers reveal how children are recruited, trained, and turned into killers — and how Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel now bankrolls Colombia’s drug empire. From mass kidnappings and paramilitary takeovers to the corruption that keeps the cocaine flowing, this is the untold story of how modern cartels dominate a billion-dollar global network. This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Surfshark! Go to https://surfshark.com/connectmitchell or use code CONNECTMITCHELL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! CashApp! Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/1ekoiacn CODE: CASHAPP10 #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement. Direct deposit, overdraft coverage, and promotions provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction: The reality of kidnapping and crime 00:26 Overview of the conflict and drug war in Colombia 01:26 Street situation: violence and constant caution 02:00 Growth of the coca industry and the failure of eradication efforts 02:28 Human impact: deaths, violence, and loss 03:02 Who really runs things? The power of the guerrilla groups 03:48 Recent trends: record seizures and the booming business 04:09 Coca production and lack of economic opportunities 04:39 The heart of drug trafficking: Cali and the Valle region 05:25 Social dysfunction: bodies, murders, and the law of crime 06:08 The life of a hitman: testimonies and motivations 07:45 Recruitment, training, and the cycle of violence 10:19 This Episode Is Sponsored By Surfshark! 12:34 Criminal rise and the regional power structure 13:12 The evolution of guerrillas and their narco interests 15:13 The link between drug traffickers, guerrillas, and Mexican cartels 17:22 Forced recruitment and life in the camps 19:43 Tactics, military training, and professionalization 21:29 Violent competition: gangs, jobs, and loyalty 23:07 The kidnapping business: targets, logistics, and victims 25:43 This Episode Is Sponsored By CashApp & PrizePicks! 29:42 Recruitment of minors and threats to families 31:38 Territorial war: attacks and regional domination 32:47 Black Eagles: emerging group and extreme brutality 33:44 Pistol Plan: targeted killings and threats against officials 35:09 Impunity and corruption: the law doesn’t reach the hitmen 36:43 Logistic networks: transport, routes, and body concealment 39:06 Power of the gangs and the fight for territorial control 42:39 Social impact: displacement, armed power, and corruption 46:06 Economic dilemmas: poverty, crops, and dependency 46:48 Final reflection: the cycle of violence and the search for a way out Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive episode, former USC football standout Owen Hanson—once living the dream on the field—reveals how he plunged into the dark underworld of the Sinaloa Cartel, moving hundreds of millions in cocaine across continents. Known as “O-Dog”, Hanson opens up about his journey from campus celebrity and sports bookmaker to international drug trafficker working directly with El Chapo’s network. Host Johnny Mitchell dives deep into Hanson’s transformation—from selling steroids to teammates at USC, to orchestrating high-level cartel deals spanning Peru, Mexico, Australia, and the U.S. Hanson recounts the lavish highs, the paranoia of living double lives, and the eventual FBI sting that brought it all crashing down. Now a free man and entrepreneur, Hanson shares how he rebuilt himself after prison, founding California Ice Protein and using his story to warn others about ego, greed, and the illusion of power. This episode blends crime, redemption, and raw honesty—a gripping story of how a promising athlete became a global kingpin, and how he’s now rewriting his legacy. Go Support Owen! Movie: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Cocaine-Quarterback-Signal-Caller-for-the-Cartel/0ITIO5AR39FDEY5RIG7APVMWF9 Book: https://www.thecaliforniakid.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/theofficialcakid/ YouTube: @theofficialcakid This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: GLD! Work Hard and Change the Game. For a limited time only, new customers are getting an insane deal. Use code MITCHELL to get 50% Off plus a Free Chain at https://gld.com BetterHelp! This World Mental Health Day, we’re celebrating the therapists who’ve helped millions of people take a step forward. If you’re ready to find the right therapist for you, BetterHelp can help you start that journey. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at https://betterhelp.com/CONNECT Rag & Bone! Upgrade your denim game with Rag & Bone! Get 20% off sitewide with code CONNECT at https://rag-bone.com #ragandbonepod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: The Rise and Fall of Owen Hansen 01:00 College Football Glory & Wild USC Parties 04:41 Owen Hansen's Documentary & Rebuilding Trust 07:00 From Prison to Entrepreneur: Life After Release 11:00 Logistics of the International Drug Trade 17:00 Creative Smuggling: Wine, Chocolate & Global Routes 18:22 Get A Great Deal From GLD! 20:58 Bookmaking Millions: The Sports Betting Business 35:00 The Art of Collecting Debts & Avoiding Trouble 44:00 Law Enforcement Evasion and Daily Operations 46:58 Today's Sponsors 49:33 Cartel Connections & The Power of Payouts 01:00:00 Scaling Up: Canada, Australia & Moving Big Loads 01:11:00 Money Laundering and Gold: Schemes & Shell Companies 01:19:00 The Fall: Informants, Raids, and Indictments 01:31:00 Warehouse Operations, Canada, and High Volume Moves 01:40:00 High Life Burnout and Personal Toll 01:54:00 Sentencing, Cooperation, and Prison Life 02:03:00 Extradition, Testimony, and Sentence Reduction 02:08:00 Prison Reflections and Survival 02:12:00 Reinvented: Ice Cream Kingpin & The Road Ahead 02:13:00 Final Thoughts: Redemption and New Beginnings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

JD Delay joins me to break down what he saw at the ICE detention facility protests in Portland—beyond the headlines. We talk crowd dynamics, police/federal response, claims of funding/organization, nearby residents caught in the middle, and how to keep nuance in a polarized media environment. -Firsthand play-by-play from the protest zone -Whether Portland is “burning” or if unrest is concentrated -Guns, snipers on rooftops, and crowd escalation tactics -Arrests, releases, and who’s actually pressing charges -Free speech vs. violence, and how to consume media critically Go Support JD! YouTube: ⁨@JdDelay5150⁩ IG: https://www.instagram.com/jd_delay Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Portland “war zone”? Why JD went to see for himself02:15 Intent: document both sides, not legacy-media takes03:26 City snapshot outside the ICE site07:30 Pepper gas + first confrontations09:12 Crowd size & who’s protesting vs. agitating13:03 DHS snipers, de-escalation, and leaving before it pops off15:33 How the experience shaped JD’s views on Antifa17:08 Police/federal response & arrest questions20:21 Attacks on independent journalists (Andy Ngo, etc.)26:32 Guns at protests? BB gun vs. real firearms29:21 Media narratives, politics, and “revenge” cycles44:16 Police presence changes the temperature46:59 Terror/ RICO debate vs. First Amendment rights54:14 “Laser tag” flyer & risks to aircraft1:11:11 Is Portland 95% fine? The broader picture1:17:17 Independent media, swatting, and safety1:22:50 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Step inside the world of Miami’s most notorious drug trafficker—Pablo Escobar’s #1 cocaine smuggler. In this exclusive sit-down, former cartel insider TJ Dominguez reveals how he built a vertically integrated empire, negotiated directly with Escobar, and moved thousands of kilos from Colombia to the streets of Miami. From high-speed boat chases under helicopter gunfire to buying off Bahamian officials, he breaks down the smuggling routes, the ruthless cartel rules, and the business mindset that made him millions. He also explains why meetings with Escobar were sometimes more honest than U.S. boardrooms, and how drug money touched politicians, businessmen, and even U.S. politics. Topics covered in this interview: -Negotiating face-to-face with Pablo Escobar -The brutal rules of the Medellin Cartel -Smuggling tactics by air and sea -Escaping a military helicopter shootout -Running legit businesses as cartel cover -How cocaine profits reached U.S. politics If you’re fascinated by the untold stories of the Medellin Cartel, Miami drug wars, and the high-risk world of international smuggling, this episode is a must-watch. Checkout the podcast all about TJ, Cocaine Air https://open.spotify.com/show/0mXtr05OjD4wk4M8JrvLPy?si=dbbda61d237b4002 Today's Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Harry's! Our listeners get the Harry’s Plus Trial Set for only $10 at https://www.Harry's.com/CONNECT #Harryspod Mando! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code MITCHELL at shopmando.com! #mandopod Ava! Take control of your credit right now. Download the Ava app today, and when you join using promo code CONNECT20, you’ll save 20% for your first year—monthly or annual, your choice. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Medellín, Colombia — once the heartbeat of Pablo Escobar’s empire and the most dangerous city on Earth — has transformed in shocking ways. In this episode , Johnny dives deep into the hidden world of Medellín’s modern drug trade. 👉 From basuco “zombie” addicts roaming the hoyas, to the rise of small neighborhood gangs (pandillas) replacing cartels, Medellín tells a story of survival, profit, and transformation. Johnny explores Barrio Pablo Escobar, explains the disturbing chemicals that make up cocaine, reveals why Mexican cartels like Sinaloa now dominate global smuggling, and walks firsthand through a city's 30 year evolution. Topics covered in this episode: -Medellín’s violent past vs. its surprising present -The basuco epidemic and “walking dead” addicts -How guerrilla groups (FARC, ELN) now control cocaine labs -Sinaloa’s alliance with Colombian producers -Gangs, tourism, and why Medellín is safer than ever Medellín is no longer exporting cocaine like it once did, but the drug economy is alive and thriving — just in ways you wouldn’t expect. This Episode Is Sponsored By The Following: Cash App! Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/1ekoiacn #CashAppPod. As a Cash App partner, I may earn a commission when you sign up for a Cash App account. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. FRE! Get 20% off you first order at https://frepouch.com using code CONNECT at checkout! Surfshark! Go to https://surfshark.com/connectmitchell or use code CONNECTMITCHELL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Inside Medellín's Drug-Infested Neighborhoods 03:00 How the Drug Trade Shifted in Medellín 06:00 Medellín's Rise from the Cartel Era 09:45 This Episode Is Sponsored By CashApp 11:14 Pablo Escobar's Legacy and Tourist Boom 14:00 Transformation of Barrio Pablo Escobar 16:16 This Episode Is Sponsored By FRE and SurfShark 18:00 The End of Medellín Cartels and the New Drug Economy 20:55 The Shocking Chemicals In Cocaine: The Process Explained 26:00 Basuco: The Toxic Byproduct and Its Epidemic 30:00 Gang Control and Neighborhood Drug Markets 34:00 Rise of Urban Gangs and Pacified Violence 37:00 Personal Stories from Medellín's Underbelly 41:00 The New International Drug Trade 44:00 Why Medellín Remains Safe Despite the Drugs 48:00 Final Thoughts and What's Next Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former CIA officer Andrew Bustamante returns for an unfiltered deep dive into the realities of power, propaganda, and politics in America and beyond. From why Joe Rogan won’t have him on, to the CIA’s controversial role in heroin distribution during the War on Terror, this conversation pulls back the curtain on government accountability, shadow operations, and the blurred line between freedom and control. We also cover the assassination of Charlie Kirk, media manipulation, the rise of conspiracy culture, and how global players like Israel, China, and Russia influence U.S. policy. Andrew shares why he’s leaving the United States for the sake of his children’s future and breaks down how cancel culture, polarization, and fear are eroding real democratic freedoms. If you want to understand how empires fall from within, the mechanics of information warfare, and the uncomfortable truths behind America’s foreign and domestic policies, this episode is a must-watch. Go Support Andy! IG: https://www.instagram.com/everydayspy Book: https://shadowcellbook.com/ Website: https://everydayspy.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: BRUNT Workwear! $10 Off at BRUNT with code [INSERT CODE] at https://www.bruntworkwear.com/MITCHELL #bruntpod HIMS! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://www.hims.com/connect BetterHelp! As the largest online therapy provider in the world, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a diverse variety of expertise. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at https://www.betterhelp.com/connet Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro & Preview of Key Topics 01:43 CIA Guest & Joe Rogan Controversy 05:37 Inside CIA Culture & Public Perceptions 08:41 Legal Limits & CIA Operations 13:08 CIA's Involvement in Heroin Trade 21:02 America's Changing Democracy & Voter Apathy 22:49 This Episode Is Sponsored By BRUNT Workwear! 24:47 Charlie Kirk Killing & Free Speech Implications 31:12 Conspiracy Thinking & Information Warfare 38:48 Who Commits Political Violence & Social Change 43:14 Today's Sponsors! 47:02 American Freedoms & Erosion of Rights 53:54 Government Trust, Rights & Cultural Division 01:00:42 Why Leave America? Cultural & Economic Reasons 01:11:29 Debating Who Should Have the Right to Vote 01:22:45 Geopolitics: Europe, US, BRICS, & Declining Influence 01:34:03 Israel, Gaza and Shifting Middle East Power 01:45:27 Global Hegemonies: China, Russia & Economic Realignment 01:53:05 US Decline, Venezuela Parallels, and Future Risks 02:00:08 US Exodus: Why Americans Are Leaving 02:13:21 Will the US Break Up? History and Future Stability 02:17:46 Israel–Palestine, Regional Influence & Economic Futures 02:22:44 CIA Memoir 'Shadow Cell' & Insider Insights 02:27:44 Outro & Moving Abroad Plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Sinaloa Cartel is unraveling—its leaders captured, its factions at war, and U.S. pressure at an all-time high. Yet in Nogales, Sonora, one of Mexico’s most strategic border plazas, business continues as usual. In this episode, we travel to Nogales to uncover: -How the Chapitos betrayed El Mayo Zambada with the DEA’s help -Why Nogales is vital for drug and human smuggling routes into the U.S. -First-hand accounts from locals and former smugglers inside cartel operations -The rise of retail drug markets (“tiendas”) across Mexico -How cartels enforce their own version of “law and order” in border towns From bloody betrayals in Culiacán to quiet cartel control in Nogales, this story reveals the new face of Mexico’s underworld. Today's Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! Ava! Take control of your credit right now. Download the Ava app today, and when you join using promo code CONNECT20, you’ll save 20% for your first year—monthly or annual, your choice. FRE! Get 20% off you first order at https://frepouch.com using code CONNECT at checkout! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Sinaloa Cartel in Crisis 02:03 Chaos and Violence in Culiacán 04:08 How Drug Trafficking Has Changed 05:24 Nogales: A Key Border Plaza 06:15 The Mechanics of Smuggling 08:17 This Episode Is Sponsored By PrizePicks and Ava! 11:31 Why Nogales Matters 13:01 Inside the World of a Cartel Operator 16:04 This Episode Is Sponsored By FRE 18:27 Cartel Evolution and Internal Rivalries 22:31 US Pressure and Crackdowns on Corruption 26:10 Retail Drug Markets in Mexico 30:05 Different Cartel Rules for Drugs 31:48 Cartel Justice and Crime in Nogales 33:24 Low-Key Tension on the Border 35:35 Why Locals Don't Break Away 36:19 Impunity and the Limits of Law Enforcement 37:12 What Really Matters in the Drug War 38:53 The Future of the Sinaloa Cartel 39:05 Closing Thoughts & Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive episode, we sit down with Alex Vargas, a former gang member and cartel sicario who lived through one of the most dangerous eras of crime. Born in Cali, Colombia but raised in Florida, he grew up in gangs, survived violent wars with rivals, and even faced a 65-year sentence in the U.S. before being repatriated back to Colombia. He opens up about: -His violent childhood and early murders committed “for fun” in Colombia -Joining street gangs in Florida and waging wars against Jamaicans, Cubans, and Latin Kings -Attempted murder of a cop and a life sentence that should have ended his story -The shocking way he was freed through Colombia’s repatriation system in the 1990s -Working with hitmen and experiencing the dark side of the Cali Cartel era -How his life spiraled through crack, basuco, and violence before eventually transforming This is one of the rawest, most unfiltered looks into the world of gangs, drugs, and the cartels — told by someone who lived it on both sides of the border. Go Support Alex! For English Lessons Anywhere In The World Contact Alex On WhatsApp: +57 317 553 2811 This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at https://trueclassic.com/CONNECT! #trueclassicpod Mando! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com! #mandopod Mood! Head to https://mood.com to find the functional gummy that matches exactly what you're looking for, and let Mood help you discover YOUR perfect mood. And don't forget to use promo code CONNECT when you check out to save 20% on your first order. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Meet Alex Vargas: From Killer to English Teacher 01:36 Violent Roots: Family History in Colombia 05:05 Gang Life in Florida: Brothers in Crime 09:30 Escalating Violence and Early Addictions 13:10 Florida Gangs, Drive-Bys, and Crime Culture 15:12 This Episode Is Sponsored By True Classic! 16:55 Deportation and Sentencing: Repatriation Loophole 24:35 Florida Prison: Proving Yourself Amidst Killers 33:04 Return to Colombia: New Life, Old Enemies 37:00 Cartel Connections: Family Betrayal and Violence 40:11 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mando And Mood! 44:17 Back and Forth: US, Colombia, and Rising Up the Cartel 54:34 Becoming a Hitman for the Cali Cartel 01:00:00 Ecuadorian Prison: Survival, Addiction, and Brutality 01:13:07 Prison Riots, Forced Violence, and Hitting Bottom 01:20:10 Out of Prison: Drug Wars, Family, and New Cartels 01:24:00 Life as a Cartel Operative: Robbery, Violence, and Loyalty 01:32:00 Work for a Narco Boss: Trust, Drugs, and Betrayals 01:41:29 International Expansion: Honduras and the Maras 01:48:47 Cartel Wars: Guarantee Man in Honduras 01:57:00 Return to Colombia: Final Escape and Confrontations 02:01:00 Rock Bottom: Addiction, Homelessness and Recovery 02:08:09 Getting Sober, Redemption, and Teaching English 02:15:00 Reflections, Consequences, and Redemption Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is the story of a former street hustler, Eric G, who went from growing up in Bayside, Queens during the crack era to running multi-state marijuana operations connected to Jamaicans and eventually one of the powerful and dangerous Mexican cartels in the world before being busted and being spent to prison. He opens up about: -Growing up in a Jehovah’s Witness household in Queens during the 80s -Early exposure to drug culture through family and neighborhood influences -Starting in the game at just 13 with crack vials in South Jamaica -Moving to Atlanta and building connections with Jamaicans and the music scene (including early ties to Lil Jon & Black Market Entertainment) -Becoming a wholesale supplier, moving hundreds of pounds weekly -Trips to Mexico and meeting cartel-level suppliers -Reflecting on the dangers, close calls, and lessons learned Go Support Eric! Podcast: @innoutww IG: https://www.instagram.com/_iamericg/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By DeleteMe! Remove your personal information from the web at https://JoinDeleteMe.com/CONNECT and use code CONNECT for 20% off DeleteMe international Plans: https://international.joindeleteme.com Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Preview: Addicted to the Lifestyle 00:41 Intro to Eric G's Story 01:18 Travel, Culture & Haitian Roots 03:00 Growing Up in Queens & Early Family Life 04:56 80s Queens: Crime, Projects & Influence 05:51 Crack Era: Influence & Survival 07:01 First Steps into Drug Dealing at 13 13:32 Money & Hustling as a Teen 15:31 Leaving New York, Switching to Weed 17:52 High School Hustles & Magnet Program 19:29 College Years & Debate Team 22:04 Expanding into the College Market 24:31 Atlanta Hustle, Early Connections 27:00 Music Industry, Lil Jon & Black Market Ent. 31:09 Finding the Big Connect & Scaling Up 33:54 Marijuana Distribution Operation 36:16 Family Involvement & Smuggling Methods41:06 This Episode Is Sponsored By DeleteMe! 42:39 Cartel Connections & Sourcing from Mexico 47:01 Atlanta's Weed Market & Profits 55:30 Weed from Guadalajara: Cartel Supply 01:00:06 Scaling Up: Cash, Credit & Distribution 01:09:12 Switch to California Chronic 01:15:06 Moving Premium Cali Weed 01:20:27 Shipping Methods: Trucks & Freight 01:30:27 End of the Drug Game Era 01:33:36 Indictment & The Bust in West Virginia 01:40:06 Trial, Snitches & Legal Troubles 01:47:31 Winning Freedom: Beating the Case 02:07:17 Life After Prison & New Pursuits 02:10:09 Podcasting, Advocacy & Looking Ahead 02:12:58 Closing Thoughts & Connections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A Sinaloa Cartel hitman (sicario) sits down for a rare and chilling interview, revealing what life is really like inside one of the world’s most powerful criminal organizations. Speaking from Nogales, Sonora, he explains how he was recruited as a young halcón (lookout), the brutal military torture he survived, and how he rose through the ranks to become a killer for Los Chapitos. He opens up about: -The rules, discipline, and punishments inside the cartel -The violence of the Sinaloa–Beltrán Leyva war in Nogales -His first missions as a cartel soldier and hitman -The split between Mayo Zambada’s faction and Los Chapitos -How cartel life affects his family and children -His thoughts on corruption, Mexico’s future, and whether he can ever escape this life This full-length episode provides a rare look inside a world few outsiders ever get to see — a place where silence means survival, and speaking out could mean death. This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: BRUNT! Get $10 Off at BRUNT with code MITCHELL at https://www.bruntworkwear.com/MITCHELL #Bruntpod HIMS! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/CONNECT AVA! Take control of your credit right now. Download the Ava app today, and when you join using my promo code CONNECT, your first month is totally FREE. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 – Torture at the hands of the military 04:30 – Early life & recruitment into the cartel 06:30 – Life as a halcón (lookout) 08:30 – Arrests & brutal torture by soldiers 12:40 – The Sinaloa–Beltrán Leyva war in Nogales 18:20 – Cartel rules, discipline & punishments 20:28 – This Episode Is Sponsored By BRUNT Workwear 22:57 – Transition from lookout to sicario 26:50 – First shootout & adrenaline of survival 28:20 – Missions, targets & plaza enforcement 31:20 – The split: Mayo vs. Los Chapitos 37:33 – This Episode Is Sponsored By HIMS and AVA 41:31 – Family life & hiding the truth from loved ones 46:20 – Guilt, morality & thoughts on killing 53:40 – Desert missions & living like an army unit 1:02:00 – Hopes for his children’s future 1:04:30 – Trapped in cartel life & dreams of leaving 1:06:30 – Mexico’s corruption & bleak outlook 1:08:10 – Closing thoughts & reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this gripping episode, Rafa Conde, a former DEA agent and narcotics officer pulls back the curtain on America's deadly drug epidemic from his experiences working on the frontlines — from Florida’s infamous pill mills to the explosive rise of fentanyl. You’ll hear shocking real-life stories about: -Undercover operations inside opioid clinics -How doctors fresh out of med school were lured with $500K to prescribe OxyContin -The DEA's fight against cartels and street-level drug floods -Why fentanyl overdoses are underreported — and why the crisis isn’t improving -Why states like Texas and Florida have harsher penalties than the federal government -The economics behind crack, meth, and MDMA in low-income communities -And whether the War on Drugs was ever meant to succeed... From pill hustlers to Big Pharma, from the streets to the federal courts — this episode dives deep into the systems behind America's addiction. Go Support Rafa! Book: https://a.co/d/hgndeay Website: https://www.manofwar.us/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/manofwarr/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code MITCHELL at shopmando.com! #mandopod AVA! Get the Ava app, and use MY promo code CONNECT so they know you heard it from me, and get your first month with Ava for FREE. PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Fentanyl Crisis & DEA Guest 01:41 Rafa's Task Force Experience 04:56 State vs. Federal Drug Laws 07:53 Pill Mills & OxyContin Boom 13:31 Inside Pill Mill Operations 19:15 From Pill Mills to Cartels 24:28 Fentanyl's Deadly Spread 28:13 This Episode Is Sponsored By MANDO! 30:27 Drug Trends: Opioids to Marijuana 35:39 Impact and Roots of Addiction 41:37 Debating the War on Drugs 46:08 Law Enforcement's Role and Limits 49:38 This Episode Is Sponsored By AVA and PrizePicks! 54:00 Current Drug Markets in Florida 01:00:00 MDMA, Black Market, and Trends 01:05:46 Bath Salts, Designer Drugs, & Trends 01:08:48 Drug Use Subcultures & Policy Reflections 01:13:40 Becoming a DEA Agent: Rafa's Story 01:16:42 On-the-Job Stories & Gritty Realities 01:25:46 Street Busts and Undercover Operations 01:31:01 Taking Down VA Hospital Trafficking 01:41:18 Targeting Big Dealers & Complex Cases 01:50:39 Cartels, Corruption, and Law Enforcement 02:05:29 DEA Tactics: Surveillance & Wires 02:13:01 Smuggling Routes & Maritime Interdiction 02:19:02 After the DEA: New Careers and the Book 02:25:24 Final Thoughts: Policing & Justice System Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From flying cocaine-laden planes to running massive boat shipments, Luis Navia was a logistics mastermind for the Medellín Cartel — responsible for moving over 100 tons of cocaine into the U.S. and Europe. In this gripping full-length interview, Luis pulls back the curtain on a 25-year career that spanned the height of the cocaine boom, working alongside legendary traffickers like Pablo Escobar. - Surviving kidnappings & near-death experiences in the drug trade - The cartel’s control over coca production in Peru - The evolution of smuggling methods — from air to sea - How a mole inside the organization led to his capture - Life after prison & his book Pure Narco Now a construction company owner in Miami, Luis reflects on his Cuban heritage, the dangers of the cartel world, and the lessons learned from a life on the run. 📖 Pure Narco — Luis Navia’s autobiography: https://a.co/d/e9bGPbg This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at trueclassic.com/CONNECT! #trueclassicpod BETTERHELP! As the largest online therapy provider in the world, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a diverse variety of expertise. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at https://betterhelp.com/connect MOOD! Head to https://mood.com/ and let Mood help you discover YOUR perfect mood. And don't forget to use promo code CONNECT when you check out to save 20% on your first order. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction: A Life in Drug Smuggling 01:52 Early Life and Cuban Heritage 07:41 Cuba Before and After the Revolution 10:41 FREE PATREON GIVEAWAY! 11:36 Growing Up In The Elite 16:00 Family’s Move to Miami & Childhood in Exile 23:17 This Episode Is Sponsored By True Classic! 25:30 Youthful Rebellion & Early Drug Exposure 32:00 First Steps into Drug Trafficking 45:43 Enter the Big Leagues: Medellín Connections 49:21 This Episode Is Sponsored By Betterhelp and MOOD! 52:35 How the Medellín Cartel Was Formed 01:08:44 Cartel Logistics & Drug Route Expansion 01:22:40 Building Distributions Across the U.S. 01:32:00 Smuggling Innovation: Planes, Boats, and the Keys 01:47:00 Adapting to Law Enforcement & Evolving Routes 01:55:30 Rising with the Northern Valley Cartel 02:06:00 The Era of Massive Freighters & European Expansion 02:19:59 Coke Money, Money Laundering, and New Markets 02:34:00 Arrest, Cooperation, and Prison Time 02:47:33 Lessons, Regrets, and the Future of the Drug Trade 03:02:00 Reflection, Wrapping Up & Book Recommendation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How does a small-time American weed dealer end up working side-by-side with one of the most powerful drug cartels in the world? In this gripping interview, we dive deep into the true story of Jon Mullins, an American who went from hustling marijuana in the U.S. to becoming a trusted lieutenant for the notorious Sinaloa Cartel. He shares raw, first-hand accounts of drug smuggling operations, life inside the cartel, run-ins with law enforcement, and the high-stakes world of cross-border trafficking. From near-death experiences to life behind bars, nothing is held back. Hit up Jon if you need solar in the Tucson, AZ area! https://www.facebook.com/people/JM-Solar-Energy-Efficient-Home-Solutions/61553962503275/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By DeleteMe! Remove your personal information from the web at https://JoinDeleteMe.com/CONNECT and use code CONNECT for 20% off DeleteMe international Plans: https://international.joindeleteme.com Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Cartel Violence & Interview Intro 01:22 Early Life in Ohio & High School Hustles 02:55 Steroid Smuggling Beginnings 03:51 How the Steroid Trade Worked 06:06 Getting Steroids Over the Border 07:31 Scaling Up: European Mafia Connections 10:45 Steroid Importing Logistics & Risk 13:33 Running a Car Lot & Hiding Profits 15:38 The Weed Game Takes Off 19:33 Drug Smuggling Logistics and Risks 25:03 Finding New Connects in Mexico 27:08 Cross-Border Operations & Logistics 32:22 Today's Sponsor 34:44 Working with the Cartels: Chapo Era 37:58 How Smuggling Operations Expanded 41:53 Checkpoint Runs & Hiding Methods 46:33 Managing Crews, Logistics & Losses 50:01 Growing Risks: Jackers & Internal Threats 54:12 Cartel Politics and Local Mafias 56:29 The Drug Business as War & Business 01:00:28 Operation Expansion & Escalation 01:05:12 The Fight Between Cartel Factions 01:12:04 Navigating Cartel Wars in Nogales 01:18:25 Surviving Mexico's Cartel Chaos 01:26:12 Retirement & Decline of the Old Market 01:33:44 Getting Busted: Arrests, Identity Switches & Court 01:37:32 Doing Time: Prison Life & Cartel Fallout 01:41:11 Rebuilding Life: Release & Legit Businesses 01:47:48 Life After Prison & Lessons Learned 01:53:32 State of Mexico & Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Step inside the untold story of Miami’s legendary Cocaine Cowboys era with Peggy Rosello – the youngest member of the billion-dollar drug empire. From running stash houses at 14 to handling millions for Sal Magluta, Willie Falcon, and Pablo Escobar, Peggy reveals the truth behind the operations that shaped Miami’s wildest years. In this explosive interview, you’ll hear: -How 18-wheelers carried thousands of kilos across the U.S. -Why Peggy was trusted with $50M+ in cash as a teenager -The rise of the Cuban middlemen who connected Colombians with American buyers -How stash houses were hidden in plain sight -The fall of the empire and the betrayals that led to life sentences This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: CASH APP! Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/1ekoiacn #CashAppPod. As a Cash App partner, I may earn a commission when you sign up for a Cash App account. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. MOOD! Head to https://mood.com/ and let Mood help you discover YOUR perfect mood. And don't forget to use promo code CONNECT when you check out to save 20% on your first order. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From slinging heroin in Puerto Rico to running massive cocaine shipments through Miami, Jaime Torres lived a life straight out of a crime novel. Shot six times, throat slashed, sentenced to life in federal prison — he should’ve been dead or buried in the system. But instead, he found God behind bars, refused to snitch, and against all odds, was released by the very judge who once said he'd never go free. In this jaw-dropping and deeply inspiring interview, Jaime sits down with Johnny Mitchell to talk about: -Growing up in the South Bronx and joining gangs at 13 -Working for — and eventually supplying — his own drug-dealer father -Running 500-kilo cocaine shipments from Colombia to the U.S. -His spiritual awakening inside prison -Beating a life sentence after 10 years -Now preaching hope and redemption in prisons nationwide Go Support Jaime! Book: https://a.co/d/gFezCtj Website: https://www.jaimetorresministries.com/ Contact: (912) 294-4187 jaimetorresministries@gmail.com jtlove777@ymail.com This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: HIMS! Start your free online visit or your personalized ED treatment options today at https://www.hims.com/connect AVA! Download the Ava app today, and when you join using my promo code CONNECT, you’ll get your first month FREE! This offer is only for MY listeners. MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com! #mandopod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive episode with Eyone Williams — a former federal inmate, shot caller, and author — who breaks down the truth behind the infamous "DC Blacks" in the federal prison system. From growing up in Washington D.C. during the crack era to serving 17 years in some of America's most dangerous prisons, Eyone shares raw and unfiltered stories of violence, survival, and redemption. Learn how a young teen sentenced to 15-to-life became a respected leader in the prison system — and discover why the "DC Blacks" aren't what the media says they are. 🚨 Topics Covered: -The origins of the "DC Blacks" and prison car politics -Surviving Lorton, Youngstown, and the private prison chaos -The brutal truth about juvenile life sentences -Street life in 1980s D.C. during the crack epidemic -Why federal time hits different for D.C. convicts -Life after prison and Ion’s success as an urban fiction author Go Support Eyone! Website: https://www.eyonewilliams.com/ YouTube: @D.C._Blacks Check out Johnny on the road! For tour dates visit https://www.micdropcomedy.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Brooklyn Bedding! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code CONNECT at checkout to get 30% off sitewide! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this jaw-dropping interview, Sharay Hayes, aka The Punisher—a veteran male stripper and escort from Harlem—opens up about his role as a key government witness in the federal case against Sean "Diddy" Combs. For the first time, Sharay exposes how his testimony backfired on the prosecution, potentially helping Diddy beat RICO and sex trafficking charges. Inside the episode: -Sharay's firsthand experience with Diddy and Cassie (2012–2015) -Why the jury didn’t buy the government’s s*x trafficking narrative -How the $30M civil payout to Cassie undermined her credibility -Wild details from Diddy’s alleged "c*ckold" s*x parties -The truth about Diddy’s sexuality and behavior -Why Sharay believes the media and other witnesses lied for money Follow Sharay And Check Out His Book! IG: https://www.instagram.com/getpunished Book: https://a.co/d/5GN0ej8 Website: https://freezermeated.com/ Dance Website: https://hunkomania.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Billionaire-turned-undercover-operative Paul Hutchinson spent a decade infiltrating trafficking rings from Thailand to Colombia, rescuing thousands of children and bringing pimps—and even corrupt judges—to justice. In this raw, eye-opening interview Paul pulls back the curtain on: -Why trafficking is exploding in ordinary U.S. neighborhoods -The brutal economics that turn kids into “inventory” worth $2–5 k per rape -How traffickers groom victims and manipulate broken foster systems -Paul’s record-setting rescue mission in Cartagena that saved 120+ children in one day -The surprising link between porn addiction, repressed sexuality, and pedophile demand -Psychedelic-assisted healing that helped Paul—and other operators—recover from PTSD -Real-world tips parents can use today to keep kids safe 🔗 Pre-order Paul’s new book “Sound of Freedom / Liberating Humanity” – practical safety guide + untold mission stories: https://soundofreedombook.com 🔗 Support survivor after-care & prevention training: https://childliberation.org 👀 Watch the Sound of Freedom film (based on Paul’s missions): https://angel.com/soundoffreedom Check out Johnny on the road! For tour dates visit https://www.micdropcomedy.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at trueclassic.com/CONNECT! #trueclassicpod AVA! Download the Ava app today, and when you join using my promo code CONNECT, you’ll get your first month FREE! This offer is only for MY listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Can the Epstein scandal still shake U.S. power—and did foreign intelligence already weaponize it? Former CIA operations officer Andy Bustamante joins host Johnny Mitchell to unpack the DOJ’s sudden claim that “no co-conspirators” exist, the long tradition of sexual-blackmail ops, rumors of Mossad’s hand in Epstein’s network, the collapse of the Diddy trafficking trial, and what it all means for America’s economy, politics, and future. 📚 GRAB ANDY’S BOOK 🔥 “Shadow Cell: A CIA Memoir”—the suppressed story of a mole hunt and a new spy war. https://a.co/d/j5w86HF https://everydayspy.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In less than a decade, Tren de Aragua evolved from a Venezuelan prison gang into a transnational criminal powerhouse, spreading fear and influence from Chile to New York. In this deep-dive interview, crime expert Chris Dalby exposes how the gang's roots in the failed Venezuelan state allowed it to expand through mass migration, government corruption, and ruthless tactics. We uncover: -How a prison became a criminal empire's headquarters -The gang’s expansion strategy across Latin America and the U.S. -Their business model: extortion, human trafficking, drugs, and more -Ties to the Venezuelan government and political assassinations -Presence in American cities like New York, Nashville, and Bozeman -Use of cryptocurrency and illegal gold mining to launder millions Learn more and check out Chris' book all about Tren De Aragua: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F8VV224G?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_TOKHAU1WMH9KLPVK1WJU&bestFormat=true Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"David"—a former sicario for the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG)—shares his harrowing journey into one of the most dangerous cartels in Mexico. From being recruited via TikTok to experiencing brutal military-style training, live executions, and deadly shootouts, David opens up about the psychological toll, the violence, and ultimately, his escape. -Recruitment via social media -Life inside CJNG training camps -Execution orders and internal punishment -Gunfights with rival cartels and military forces -Escaping the cartel and living with guilt -Reflections on trauma, redemption, and starting over Check out Johnny on the road! For tour dates visit https://www.micdropcomedy.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: AVA! Download the Ava app today, and when you join using my promo code CONNECT, you’ll get your first month FREE! This offer is only for MY listeners. BETTERHELP! As the largest online therapy provider in the world, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a diverse variety of expertise. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at https://betterhelp.com/connect Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful and unfiltered interview, Mike Moy—a former made man in the infamous Fuk Ching Syndicate and later a 25-year NYPD officer—breaks down the bloody history of Chinese-American gangs in New York City's Chinatown during the 70s, 80s, and early 90s. From underground gambling parlors, prostitution rings, and extortion rackets, to the $1 billion heroin trade and brutal gang wars, Mike reveals shocking insider details never before shared so openly. He explains how the Tong associations, triads, and local street gangs like the Ghost Shadows, Flying Dragons, and BTK worked together—and what ultimately led to their collapse under federal RICO prosecutions. Go Support Michael! Book: https://a.co/d/eVaVsur YouTube: @chinatowngangstories IG: https://www.instagram.com/chinatowngangstories/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com! #mandopod BAY SMOKES! To get your free sample just head to https://baysmokes.com/pages/free-thca-flower-gram-sample/theconnect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I went down to the Mexican state of Coahuila to train with a highly specialized tactical group that successful went to war with the notorious Los Zetas cartel and WON. They are so effective that there is no presence of major criminal organizations in the entire state. I wanted to see how Mexico's greatest group of cartel hunters trained firsthand and they were happy to show me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While the Sinaloa Cartel has been in headlines for the capture of infamous leader El Mayo Zambada and the infighting that is causing it's own fracture, another cartel has begun to rise to the top and take control of the country- The New Generation Jalisco Cartel aka CJNG. We went to Guadalajara- the home base for CJNG- to see what's REALLY happening with the world's most militarized drug cartel by talking to sicarios, special forces and the population that has been affected by all of it. What we found was way more shocking than we could have ever anticipated. Be sure to check out GAFE's podcast! @GAFE423 Need security or want to learn Krav Maga in the Guadalajara area? Check out the Krav Maga Academy of Guadalajara and tell them we sent you! https://www.kravmagaacademymx.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following! BetterHelp! Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/connect and get on your way to being your best self. Brooklyn Bedding! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code CONNECT at checkout to get 30% off sitewide! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Riot season in LA? Or just another media fear campaign? In this brutally honest breakdown, we expose how the LA protests and ICE raids are being manipulated by both mainstream and alternative media to stoke fear, division, and justify an Orwellian surveillance future. From exaggerated riot footage to biometric tracking and Palantir’s billion-dollar government contracts, it’s clear: the surveillance state isn’t coming—it’s already here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this raw and unfiltered episode, we sit down with Peter Shue, one of the biggest drug kingpins that has ever lived in New York City, as he shares his powerful life story—growing up in the notorious Hunts Point neighborhood of the Bronx. From a childhood surrounded by drug dealers, violence, and poverty, to a youth torn between basketball dreams and the fast money of the streets, Peter opens up about the pivotal choices that led to him selling insane amounts of smack and blow, dealing with Colombian cartels, becoming a fixture in NYC's celebrity party scene, and ultimately incarceration- spending over 2 decades in federal prison. Go Support Peter! Book: https://www.amazon.com/Peter-Shue-Story-Life-Party/dp/0988515008 Business IG: https://www.instagram.com/ogpetershue/ Personal IG: https://www.instagram.com/therealpetershue/?hl=en This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: CASH APP! Download Cash App Today And Use Code: CONNECT #CashAppPod *Referral Reward Disclaimer: As a Cash App partner, I may earn a commission when you sign up for a Cash App account. HIMS! Start your free online visit or your personalized ED treatment options today at https://www.hims.com/connect BAY SMOKES! To get your free sample just head to https://baysmokes.com/pages/free-thca-flower-gram-sample/theconnect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Step inside the walls of one of America’s most notorious prisons through the firsthand experiences of Mario Sanchez. Mario opens up about the true stories of survival, resilience, and reform having endured years in California’s harshest solitary confinement unit. He gives chilling insight into the psychological and physical toll of life in the SHU (Security Housing Unit), the controversial gang validation process, and the hunger strikes that sparked a national conversation on prison reform. This episode shines a light on the hidden world of supermax prisons—and the people fighting for change, both inside and out. Tune in for: -Unfiltered stories of survival and endurance from Pelican Bay’s solitary units -Being involved in one of the worst prison riots in U.S. history -A deep dive into the history, policies, and future of solitary confinement in America Go Support Mario! Website: https://www.relentless-mindset.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/theemariosanchez/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: HOF! Get a 7-Day Free Trial + 50% Off your first month with code CONNECT. Just download the HOF app on iOS or Android, enter code CONNECT, and you’re all set. True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at trueclassic.com/CONNECT! #trueclassicpod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this interview with weed kingpin Corvain Cooper, we dive deep into the untold stories of hustlers, street codes, and the evolution of the game. Corvain shares raw and unfiltered experiences from the streets of Inglewood and South Central LA, the challenges of growing a multi-state weed operation, and the harsh realities of the legal system — from conspiracy charges to clemency battles. From shipping crates of weed across the country to navigating betrayals, snitches, and the culture of lean, Corvain exposes the highs, lows, and lessons learned in the fast life. Now, as the founder of 40 Tons, a legal cannabis and clothing brand, he reflects on the journey from hustling to legitimate business, advocating for conspiracy law reform, and building a brand in the legal cannabis market. Go Support Corvain! IG: https://www.instagram.com/corvaincooper 40 Tons: https://40tons.co/ Donate To 40 Tons Fight For Restorative Justice: https://givebutter.com/c/PHrr3J This Episode Is Sponsored By The Following: Ridge! Take advantage of Ridge’s once-a-year Father’s Day Sale and get UP TO 40% Off right now by going to https://www.Ridge.com/CONNECT #Ridgepod Mando! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at shopmando.com! #mandopod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful interview, Carlon Robinson shares his raw and inspiring journey from growing up during the crack epidemic in London, to serving serious time in high-security prisons like Belmarsh, and ultimately turning his life around through education, writing, and entrepreneurship. Carlon speaks candidly about life on the streets, gang rivalries, betrayal, survival, and how he found redemption by channeling his experiences into writing a critically acclaimed play (Every Coin) and publishing his autobiography. He also discusses systemic injustices, wrongful imprisonment issues, and rebuilding after incarceration. Go Support Carlon! IG: https://www.instagram.com/gcmtv.ltd/?hl=en Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive deep into the incredible—and brutal—life of Peter "Pistol Pete" Rollock, the most feared Puerto Rican gangster in New York City history. Raised in the South Bronx during the 70s and 80s, Pete was running heroin shooting galleries by age 12, founding the notorious Sex Money Murder gang in his teens, and leading prison riots at Rikers Island before he turned 20. In this raw and unfiltered interview, Pistol Pete shares firsthand accounts of street wars, his rise in the criminal underworld, multi-million-dollar extortion operations, and his eventual federal takedown. Plus, hear how he went from solitary confinement to working with NYC officials to help clean up the same streets he once ran. Go Support Pistol Pete! YouTube: @DOGINTHEYARD IG: https://www.instagram.com/pistolpetekarts/ Company: https://www.instagram.com/yappbrand/ NYC Storefront: https://www.instagram.com/dynasty.commodities/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: HOF Bets! Get a 7-Day Free Trial + 50% Off your first month with code CONNECT. Just download the HOF app on iOS or Android, enter code CONNECT, and you’re all set. BetterHelp! Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/connect and get on your way to being your best self. HIMS! Start your FREE online visit today at https://hims.com/connect for your personalized ED treatment options! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When people think of Mexican cartels, names like Sinaloa dominate the headlines. But hidden away in the vast deserts of Coahuila, a much darker, more violent history unfolded — the rise and brutal reign of the Zetas. In this special report, we travel to the front lines with Mexico's elite security forces who purged the Zetas from the region and continue to battle their successors, the Northeast Cartel. From mass disappearances and brutal massacres to military-style cartel warfare, discover how Coahuila became one of the only states to rid itself of organized crime — and the lessons it holds for the rest of Mexico. - Inside stories from cartel hunters - The true origins of the Zetas - Northeast Cartel's brutal rise - How Coahuila beat back cartel control - The future of cartel wars in Mexico Thank you to Sombra and Saltillo Safari! Check them out if you're in Mexico- https://www.instagram.com/saltillosafari/?hl=en Follow Sombra: https://www.instagram.com/sombra_cuachic/ Do us a huge favor and like this video, leave a comment, and subscribe to the channel. Gracias! This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: AVA! Download the Ava app today, and when you join use promo code CONNECT to get your first month FREE! True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at https://trueclassic.com/CONNECT #trueclassicpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful and raw episode, Johnny sits down with legendary New York rapper Maino, who opens up about his turbulent journey from the violent streets of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, to becoming one of the most consistent voices in hip-hop. Maino reflects on growing up during the crack epidemic, getting involved in crime at just 14, and doing a 10-year prison sentence for kidnapping and robbery. He talks about the brutal realities of Rikers Island, surviving four years in solitary confinement, and how he found redemption through music. Discover how Maino went from the hole to the top of the charts, signing with Universal Music, releasing 15+ albums, and earning his own Maino Day in New York City. Go Support Maino! IG: https://www.instagram.com/mainohustlehard/ Radio Show: https://wayupwithyee.iheart.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By Following: PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT POLICYGENIUS! Secure your family’s tomorrow so you have peace of mind today. Head to https://policygenius.com/mitchell to get your free life insurance quotes and see how much you could save! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this gripping, unfiltered interview, Banky Pound shares the raw truth about surviving 33 years in some of Virginia's most dangerous prisons. From witnessing murders on his first day to navigating the brutal inmate hierarchy and corrupt prison systems, Banky opens up about what it really takes to make it out alive. Raised in Washington D.C. during the 70s and 80s, Banky fell into a life of armed robbery as a teenager. A botched robbery led to a devastating sentence: life plus 100+ years. What followed was decades of violence, betrayal, and survival behind bars — including building a prison hustle, dealing with systemic racism, and the emotional toll of incarceration. Now free, Banky is using his story to uplift others and steer young people away from the same path. This is one of the wildest, most eye-opening prison stories ever told. Go Support Banky! IG: https://www.instagram.com/bankypound/ YouTube: @bankypound1932 This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: HIMS! Start your FREE online visit today at https://hims.com/connect for your personalized ED treatment options! BaySmokes! To get your free sample just head to https://baysmokes.com/pages/free-thca-flower-gram-sample/theconnect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the gritty streets of Harlem to hip-hop tours and legal dispensaries — this is the untold story of Shiest Bubz, the underground legend who introduced high-grade haze to the East Coast and changed cannabis culture forever. In this deep, raw, and unfiltered conversation, Shiest breaks down: -Moving 400 lbs of weed a month out of his NYC apartment -Working with Jamaican and Mexican cartels -Turning Purple Haze into a cultural brand -His come-up with Dipset & music industry moves -Beating drug charges and transitioning into legal cannabis -The racism and real politics behind legalization -Why he’s still one of the few Black voices in a billion-dollar industry Whether you're a hip-hop head, cannabis entrepreneur, or just love a wild true story, this one hits different Go Support Shiest! IG: https://www.instagram.com/shiestbubz/ 2 Bites Pizza: https://www.instagram.com/2bitespizza Legacy Adventures: https://legacyadventuresnyc.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: AVA! Download the Ava app today, and when you join use promo code CONNECT to get your first month FREE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this raw and unfiltered episode, Sose the Ghost takes us deep into the gritty realities of street and biker life. From growing up in the violent streets of the South Bronx as a Grape Street Crip to doing time on Rikers Island and eventually becoming a 1% outlaw biker with the Thug Riders MC — Sose shares it all. He opens up about: -Life-or-death moments in gang wars -The power dynamics between Bloods and Crips in NYC -His transformation from gangbanger to biker -Inside stories on the Mongols, Hells Angels & MC culture -His views on street violence, prison politics, drug dealing, and redemption -The real impact of stop-and-frisk in NYC -Bitcoin, evolution, and building the Demons Row platform This is one of the realest interviews you’ll hear — straight from someone who lived it. Go Support Sose! YouTube: @DemonsRow IG: https://www.instagram.com/demonsrow/ Website: https://demonsrow.com/ The Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: BAY SMOKES! To get your free sample just head to https://baysmokes.com/pages/free-thca-flower-gram-sample/theconnect BetterHelp! Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/connect and get on your way to being your best self. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the streets of Lancaster to the heart of South Central LA, Tyler Corcoran made the unthinkable choice at 14- he ran away from home and joined the 120 Raymond Crips — as a white gang member in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in America. By 17, he was sentenced to 80 years to life under California's Three Strikes Law. What followed was a harrowing journey through Level 4 maximum-security prisons, prison riots, near-death experiences, and intense racial politics. But in the darkest place imaginable, Tyler found light. He dropped out of the gang, transformed his mindset, and became a voice of empathy, growth, and redemption from within the system. Now free, Tyler shares his powerful story of survival, change, and hope — and what it really takes to make it out alive. WATCH UNTIL THE END to hear: -What it’s like being a white Crip in prison -How prison politics nearly cost him his life -Why he chose to drop out and pursue inner peace -How he beat a life sentence and rebuilt his life -The emotional reunion with his family and his mission now Go Support Tyler! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tycorcoran/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: POLICYGENIUS! Secure your family’s tomorrow so you have peace of mind today. Head to https://policygenius.com/mitchell to get your free life insurance quotes and see how much you could save! PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former drug trafficker Jason Votrobek shares his wild journey from moving ounces as a teenager to smuggling 100-kilo shipments of cocaine and running a multi-million-dollar Oxycontin empire in South Florida. From working with Mexican and Colombian cartels to near-death encounters, undercover drops, high-seas smuggling tactics, and ultimately getting busted and serving time in prison—Jason breaks down the game like no one else. His story is raw, unfiltered, and packed with real-life lessons from inside the drug world. Go Follow Jason! TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UC8RSJB1iwlO4gSVOape_oiw IG: https://www.instagram.com/8upjay/ All Other Links: https://linktr.ee/jasonvotrobek?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=84999dcc-6e96-46b1-b23e-b044cf791660 Help our brother Matyas overcome a difficult time and donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/qnpshd-matyas-retten-hws-cci-behandlung This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following Download the Ava app today, and when you join use promo code CONNECT to get your first month FREE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

James Beasley Jr. rose from the streets of Hunter’s Point to become San Francisco’s most notorious drug kingpin, moving 1,000 kilos of cocaine a month for the Medellín Cartel at the height of the crack epidemic. In this exclusive interview, Beasley reveals how he scaled his empire, outsmarted the DEA for years, and ultimately served 27 years in federal prison—not for drugs, but for tax evasion, like Al Capone. Now a free man and a millionaire once again through real estate, Beasley reflects on the street game, surviving the feds, and what it takes to rebuild. From cartel meetings in Colombia to front businesses in the Bay, this is a raw, unfiltered story of power, loyalty, betrayal—and redemption. 📖 Grab his book: Deep Rooted: San Francisco’s Most Notorious Crime Boss https://jamesbeasleyent.com/ Follow James on IG: https://www.instagram.com/drooted/ Help our brother Matyas overcome a difficult time and donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/qnpshd-matyas-retten-hws-cci-behandlung This Episode Is #Sponsored By Mando! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at https://mandopodcast.com/mitchell #mandopod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive episode, Johnny sits down with former Mexican Special Forces officer and cartel expert Ed Calderon to uncover the real state of the cartel wars in Mexico. From the ongoing civil war within the Sinaloa cartel between Los Chapitos and Los Mayos, to how cartel kingpin El Mayo Zambada still pulls strings from a U.S. jail cell — Ed breaks it all down like no one else can. We also dive into: - The cartel's deep infiltration into Mexican politics - U.S. pressure on Mexico through tariffs and diplomacy - The fentanyl crisis and its real players - Why drug trafficking is more corporate than ever - Corruption, violence, and the future of narco culture in Mexico Brace yourself — this is an unfiltered look at the front lines of one of the most dangerous, politically entangled conflicts in the world. 🎧 Follow Ed Calderon: @manifestoradionetwork3191 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manifestoradiopodcast Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From stealing high-end luxury cars to running an international smuggling ring, Skinny Keem made millions in a criminal empire that spanned 14 years. In this exclusive interview, he reveals how his operation worked, the global network behind stolen vehicles, and the unbelievable ways he dodged law enforcement. From Philly to Africa, this is a story you won’t believe. - The shocking reality of high-end car theft - How stolen cars were smuggled overseas - Corruption at ports & bribing officials - Making millions & staying ahead of the feds - Why he walked away—and the threats that followed Go Support Keem! IG: https://www.instagram.com/skinny.keem/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at https://trueclassic.com/CONNECT #trueclassicpod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive interview, Anthony "Geezy" Gonzalez, former cocaine trafficker turned successful entrepreneur takes us behind the scenes of the illegal hustle happening behind the scenes with rap group Clipse. From running the streets of Virginia Beach alongside hip-hop legends like Pusha T to managing Clipse and touring with icons like 50 Cent and Jay-Z, Anthony lived a life most only hear about in rap lyrics. But the fast life caught up with him. After a high-stakes drug operation and a federal indictment that nearly landed him a life sentence, he did 10 years in prison. Now, he's out, making six figures in the trucking industry and teaching others how to build businesses with little to no money down. Go Support Geezy! Geezy's Trucking School: https://www.nocdltrucking.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tonyg757 This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT Mando! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at https://mandopodcast.com/mitchell #mandopod True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at https://trueclassic.com/CONNECT #trueclassicpod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive episode, investigative journalist Jorge Ventura takes us deep into the hidden world of human smuggling, cartel operations, and the growing influence of Chinese organized crime in the U.S. border crisis. Jorge exposes the shocking realities behind: - Chinese nationals paying $35,000 to cartels for illegal entry - The cartel’s secret deal with China to smuggle fentanyl precursors - The life-threatening dangers of crossing the Rio Grande - New York City’s $8M/day migrant crisis & taxpayer-funded flights - The brutal exploitation of migrants in illegal marijuana farms - The Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang’s growing presence in Mexico - Lost children, mass graves, and the failure of U.S. border policies - The shocking role of corporations relying on illegal migrant labor - Speculation on U.S. military intervention against the cartels Go Support and Follow Jorge! News Coverage: https://www.newsnationnow.com/author/jorge-ventura/ X: https://x.com/VenturaReport IG: https://www.instagram.com/jorgeventuratv/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: RIDGE! Upgrade your wallet today! Get 10% Off @Ridge with code CONNECT at https://www.Ridge.com/CONNECT #Ridgepod POLICYGENIUS! Secure your family’s tomorrow so you have peace of mind today. Head to https://policygenius.com/mitchell to get your free life insurance quotes and see how much you could save! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Art forgery is a multi-billion dollar industry, and in this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of deception, talent, and high-stakes crime. Meet Max Brandrett, one of the most notorious art forgers in history, who made a living creating masterful fakes of famous paintings and selling them as the real deal. From fooling galleries to evading the law, Max shares the secrets behind aging paintings, crafting perfect forgeries, and the lucrative hustle that kept him in and out of prison for years. He reveals the tricks of the trade, his encounters with criminals, and the irony of people now forging his fakes! - How did Max get started in the art forgery game? - What techniques did he use to make his fakes look authentic? - What happens when the police catch a master forger? - The surprising connection between art, crime, and high society. Go grab a copy of Max's book for his full life story! https://a.co/d/gfWDR1a Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Sinaloa Cartel has long been considered Mexico's most dominant criminal empire, but with the recent arrest of its legendary leader, Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, is this truly the end? Or is the cartel simply evolving and expanding beyond borders? In this deep dive, we explore: - The real reason behind El Mayo’s arrest and whether it was staged - How U.S. and Mexican authorities have historically worked with cartels - The cartel's global expansion into Europe, Asia, and beyond - The parallels between today's drug war and past U.S. policies - Why America’s crackdown on fentanyl may actually make things worse Despite government crackdowns and military intervention, drug trafficking is far from over. The Sinaloa Cartel is adapting, decentralizing, and finding new ways to operate. Will the war on drugs ever succeed, or is this just history repeating itself? This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL  at shopmando.com! #mandopod TRUE CLASSIC! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at trueclassic.com/CONNECT! #trueclassicpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this exclusive interview, John "Red" Shea, former Irish-American gangster, shares his untold story of rising to power alongside the infamous James "Whitey" Bulger in South Boston during the 1980s. Shea opens up about his role as a key cocaine supplier, the inner workings of Bulger's criminal empire, and the ultimate betrayal by corrupt FBI agent John Connolly. Red covers his experience with the Irish Mafia including: -How Whitey Bulger ruled South Boston for three decades -The rise of Red Shea and his pivotal role in the Irish mob's drug trade -Shocking details about FBI corruption and how it protected Bulger -Why Whitey Bulger went on the run for 16 years and how he was finally captured -Inside stories of drug deals, loyalty tests, and survival in the underworld -The truth behind Whitey Bulger’s brutal prison murder Red Shea also discusses his life after prison, finding closure through his book "Rat Bastard", and the lessons learned from a life entangled in crime. Go Support Red! Book: https://a.co/d/4BpTmsG IG: https://www.instagram.com/red_shea_official/ Podcast: @redsheapodcast This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: The Perfect Jean! F*%k your khakis and get The Perfect Jean 15% off with the code CONNECT15 at https://theperfectjean.nyc/connect15 #theperfectjeanpod BetterHelp! Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/connect and get on your way to being your best self. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At just 13 years old, 59 Jay was indoctrinated into the violent world of Norteño gang politics. Thank you Helix Sleep for sponsoring! Helix’s President’s Day Exclusive Partner Offer is running now for a limited time – Visit https://helixsleep.com/theconnect to get 27% off your mattress. Offers subject to change. #helixsleep For nearly two decades, his life revolved around crime, drugs, and prison. In this raw and unfiltered interview, Jay exposes the harsh realities of gang life—how it operates, the betrayals, the violence, and the corruption that keeps the cycle going. From running prison operations to surviving riots and stabbings, Jay shares the truth behind the glorified street life that so many young people are drawn to. But in the end, was it worth it? After years of violence, he found himself questioning everything. Go Support Jay! YouTube: @renegademedia0224 Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2024 has seen record-breaking cartel violence in Mexico, with brutal conflicts erupting across the country. With Donald Trump back in office, he's vowing to crush the cartels, declaring them terrorist organizations and even threatening military intervention in Mexico. But is this plan realistic? In this deep dive, we explore: 🔹 The collapse of the old cartel system and rise of decentralized criminal groups 🔹 How cartels have diversified beyond drugs into oil theft, human smuggling, and extortion 🔹 The massive government crackdown on cartel leaders, including the arrest of El Mayo 🔹 Why Mexico is modernizing and pushing cartels out to become a global manufacturing hub 🔹 The impact of Trump’s immigration policies on cartel profits 🔹 The fentanyl epidemic, independent drug cooks, and why stopping trafficking is almost impossible Will Trump’s war on cartels work, or is this just another chapter in the never-ending battle? This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: BetterHelp! Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/connect and get on your way to being your best self. Rocket Money! Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to https://rocketmoney.com/connect today. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ross Ulbricht, the mastermind behind Silk Road, created one of the most notorious underground marketplaces in internet history. From 2011 to 2013, Silk Road facilitated over $200 million in drug sales using Bitcoin, making Ulbricht a target for the U.S. government. But was he truly the criminal kingpin they made him out to be? In this deep dive, we explore: 🔹 The rise and fall of Silk Road – the "Amazon for drugs" 🔹 Ross Ulbricht’s trial, sentencing, and controversial murder-for-hire allegations 🔹 How the justice system made an example out of him with a life + 40-year sentence 🔹 Libertarian ideals, Bitcoin, and the war on drugs 🔹 Donald Trump’s shocking pardon and its implications Was Ross a visionary, a criminal, or just a pawn in a bigger game? Watch the full video and decide for yourself. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this gripping interview, legendary Harlem gangster Lou Simms shares his untold story of survival in the brutal world of the 1980s crack epidemic. From running a multi-state drug empire to facing the death penalty, surviving 27 years in maximum security prison, and witnessing the transformation of Harlem, Lou holds nothing back. Lou explains how he got the name "Homicide Lou", the violent reality of federal prison, being a personal target of the U.S. Attorney General and much more. Go Support Lou! Lounge: https://www.instagram.com/harlemamor/ Book: https://neotextcorp.com/fact/once-upon-a-time-in-harlem/ This Episode Of The Connect Is #Sponsored By The Following: PRIZEPICKS! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT TRUE CLASSIC! Start the New Year off right with an upgraded wardrobe. Save on @trueclassic at https://trueclassic.com/connect! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What really went down on January 6th? In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Nathan DeGrave, one of the 1600+ individuals who participated in the Capitol protest and was later pardoned by Donald Trump. Nathan shares his firsthand experience, from marching to the Capitol after Trump’s speech to the moment things spiraled out of control. He reveals shocking details about how police responded, the role of outside agitators, and what happened inside the Senate chamber. He also discusses his arrest, the legal battle that followed, and what it was like serving time in prison for his involvement. Was he a patriot standing up for election integrity, or did he go too far? You decide. *This interview does not reflect the opinions of our show or channel* You Can Find Nate Here: IG: https://www.instagram.com/j6patriotnate/ & https://www.instagram.com/itsvegasnate X: https://x.com/j6patriotnate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the extraordinary story of Jorge Valdez, the original "Cocaine Cowboy" who pioneered the cocaine trade in the United States during the 1970s. From his beginnings as the Medellín Cartel's accountant to running multi-million-dollar operations, Jorge franchised the drug trade and left a mark on history. But his story doesn’t end there. After a life-changing spiritual awakening, Jorge walked away from a dangerous empire, forfeiting millions and serving a decade in federal prison. During that time, he found faith, earned a doctorate, and emerged as a motivational speaker, author, and philanthropist. Join us as Jorge shares untold truths about the Medellín Cartel, his encounters with figures like Griselda Blanco, and how he turned his life around to inspire others. From harrowing betrayals to heartfelt reflections, this is a story of redemption you won’t want to miss. Go Support Jorge! Book: https://a.co/d/ebowmZJ IG: https://www.instagram.com/drjorgeluisvaldes YouTube: @JorgeValdesPhD This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: MUD\WTR! Start your new morning ritual & get up to 43% off your @MUDWTR with code Mitchell at https://mudwtr.com/Mitchell BetterHelp! Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/CONNECT and get on your way to being your best self! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the gripping story of Stephen French, also known as "The Devil," one of Liverpool's most infamous figures. From his troubled childhood to leading a stick-up crew during the 1980s cocaine boom, French built a fearsome reputation in the underworld, amassing millions and dominating Liverpool's streets. In this exclusive interview, he opens up about his journey through violence, crime, and redemption. Discover how he evaded law enforcement, transformed into a community activist, and wrestled with the complexities of his legacy. Go Support Stephen! IG: https://www.instagram.com/therealnocontextstephenfrench/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with Mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com #mandopod PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the extraordinary life of David McMillan, a former professional heroin smuggler who orchestrated massive operations across the globe. In this gripping interview, David reveals how he navigated the dangerous underworld, sourced the finest heroin from Southeast Asia, and built an empire that spanned continents. But it wasn’t all glamour. Arrested in Thailand and sentenced to death in one of the world’s toughest prisons, David faced the unthinkable—execution. Against all odds, he pulled off a daring escape, becoming the only Westerner to break out of the infamous Bangkok Hilton. Now living a quiet life in England, David shares his harrowing journey, lessons learned, and how he turned his criminal past into bestselling books like Escape and Unforgiving Destiny. Go Support David! Website: https://davidmcmillan.net/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Step into the gripping world of an elite Navy SEAL turned private military contractor. In this candid conversation, Daniel Corbett shares raw insights into his journey from a troubled youth to becoming a SEAL, intense combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the ethical dilemmas faced in modern warfare. He reflects on his time with SEAL Team 6, hostage rescues, mercenary work, and the psychological impact of high-stakes operations. Explore the untold stories of battlefield tactics, moral ambiguity, and life after the military in this fascinating deep dive. Go Support Daniel! IG: https://www.instagram.com/american_mercenary/ Website: https://www.danieldavidcorbettiii.com/ Book: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/daniel-corbett/american-mercenary/9781546006190/?lens=center-street&fbclid=PAAaYv-73KLJC1uN2sVKAFbGN_ZlBcjEpPs-Op_JM3mpricBy4MyVIl6HYiZM This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/CONNECT and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is also brought to you by Rocket Money! Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://RocketMoney.com/connect Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before Nino Breeze put out a hit single with Rick Ross and signed a massive record contract, he was a kid in the slums of St Petersburg, Florida. After serving time for burglaries he met a connect from Humboldt County California and quickly built a pot empire shipping up to 100 lbs at a time through the mail back home. After his business partner was busted and became an informant, the DEA and ATF raided Nino's home and he was sent to federal prison. Go Support Nino! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5hdJowXyDT6CIEAXXToqUt?si=_7eXHDgQQtSlmmuB06-tEQ IG: https://www.instagram.com/realninobreeze/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realninobreeze?lang=en YouTube: @Realninobreeze Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the harrowing yet inspiring story of Gemma Smith, a survivor of domestic abuse who took drastic action to escape her abuser. Growing up in Northern England amidst a backdrop of addiction, violence, and neglect, Gemma’s life was marked by challenges from an early age. Her story takes a dramatic turn as she confronts an abusive partner, faces the legal system, and navigates life in prison—all while fighting to keep her child by her side. Today, Gemma is a survivor and an advocate, using her voice to shine a light on the realities of domestic abuse and systemic failures that victims often endure. Tune in as she shares her journey of resilience, recovery, and hope. Go Support Gemma! IG: https://www.instagram.com/bipolarmumjourney/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful and raw account, Victor Abraham, a young African immigrant, shares his harrowing experiences of navigating systemic injustice in Staten Island, New York. He was falsely accused of a crime he didn't commit which sent him to a jail where he was subjected to solitary confinement at Rikers Island. Victor’s story sheds light on the realities of institutional racism, corruption, and the ACS-to-prison pipeline. Despite enduring fabricated charges, wrongful imprisonment, and mental health struggles, he fought back by becoming his own legal advocate. Victor discusses his journey of resilience, survival, and hope, while advocating for justice and reform. This compelling narrative is a testament to his strength and determination to not just survive but to rise against the odds. Go Support Victor! IG: https://www.instagram.com/vskeeee233/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Rocket Money! Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://RocketMoney.com/connect PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Taylor Cavanaugh, a former Navy SEAL, brings us into his life which feels straight out of an action movie at times. From battling ISIS in the deserts of the Middle East to surviving grueling SEAL training and joining the legendary French Foreign Legion, Taylor shares his incredible journey of resilience, transformation, and redemption. He dives into the details of being discharged by the SEALs and what life is really like for a mercenary. Go Support Taylor! Website: https://www.taylorcavanaugh.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tcavofficial/ YouTube: @tcavofficial This Episode Is #Sponsored By MINT MOBILE! Support the show and get your new 3-month premium wireless plan for just $15 a month at https://mintmobile.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ali Gonzalez, a former high-level hitman for Mexico's most dangerous cartels, reveals the shocking truth about life as a sicario. From his traumatic childhood and recruitment into the Sinaloa cartel to the violent reality of territorial disputes and his ultimate journey toward redemption, Ali provides unparalleled insight into the inner workings of the world's most powerful criminal organizations. This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with Mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com #mandopod True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at https://trueclassic.com/connect ! #trueclassicpod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shaun Attwood tells his incredible story of how he went from a working class childhood in England to becoming a successful stockbroker in the United States to running a multi-million dollar drug smuggling empire and eventually doing time in one of the most controversial prison systems in North America. He talks about the web of operations he set up that spanned multiple continents and the blood feud his crew had with the famed mafia underboss Sammy "The Bull" Gravano. Shaun also gives insights on the law enforcement operation that spanned years to take him down and the horrific conditions in prison he faced when he was locked up. Today Shaun has a very successful podcasting career and is an accomplished author. He also does tons of outreach work to help the youth of today not make his same mistakes and steer them away from a life of crime and drug addiction. Go Support Shaun! YouTube: @shaunattwoodOFFICIAL IG: https://www.instagram.com/shaunattwood/ Website: https://www.shaunattwood.com/ All Links: https://linktr.ee/shaunattwood This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with Mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com #mandopod PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Mint Mobile! Support the show and get your new 3-month premium wireless plan for just $15 a month at https://mintmobile.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paul Calvo, a former member of the notorious Fresno Bulldogs, opens up about his life of crime, survival in one of California's most violent gangs, and the harsh realities of federal prison. Paul shares never-before-heard stories about life on the inside, including shocking violence, the rules of survival, and the eventual journey toward redemption. This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at https://trueclassic.com/connect ! #trueclassicpod HexClad! For a very limited time, shop the biggest sale of the year and find your forever cookware @hexclad at https://hexclad.com/connect ! #hexcladpartner Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam22 opens up about the highs and lows of his career as a podcast host, rapper, and internet personality. We delve into his controversial podcast episodes, his views on the evolving rap scene, and the challenges of balancing family life with a career in the adult entertainment industry. Stay tuned for an unfiltered conversation that gets to the heart of what drives Adam22’s success and the controversies surrounding his career. Go Support Adam! YouTube: @NoJumper IG: http://www.instagram.com/adam22 Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/adam22 Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pieter Tritton—dubbed the "Posh Pete"—pulls back the curtain on the dangerous and complex world of international drug trafficking. From crafting innovative smuggling techniques like impregnating cocaine into latex to surviving the brutal violence of an Ecuadorian prison, Tritton shares his harrowing journey. This is not just a tale of crime but a deep dive into the global drug trade's economics, its shift towards synthetic drugs, and the psychological toll of living on the edge. Discover how one man rose to prominence in the underworld, narrowly escaped detection, and reflected on his choices while facing life-changing consequences. Go Support Pieter! Book: https://a.co/d/jfBfcMx Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Titone Rosavelli, also known as "Tito," shares the untold story of how he co-founded New York City's infamous "Yellow Top Crew," one of the most powerful and violent crack cocaine organizations of the 1980s. Tito opens up about his journey from a teenager hustling on the streets to leading a crew that controlled the Upper West Side with an iron fist, managing a network of over 40 workers, and amassing fortunes that were beyond his wildest dreams. From organizing street-level crack sales to evading specialized police task forces, Tito dives deep into the high-stakes world of his teenage years. He reveals how he and his partner, Chango, expanded their empire by setting up operations in abandoned buildings, negotiating with dangerous suppliers, and outsmarting rivals with strategies that made them untouchable on their block. In a world marked by deadly competition, 20+ homicides, and relentless violence, Tito offers a firsthand account of life inside a drug empire, the rise of the crack epidemic, and the challenges of evading law enforcement. Tune in for an unfiltered look at the dangerous dynamics of New York City's drug trade, the rise and fall of a teenage kingpin, and the life-altering consequences of fast money and power. Go Support Tito! Shop: https://www.instagram.com/west.side.boutique_/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Rocket Money! Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://RocketMoney.com/connect Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Investigative journalist Jordan Chariton discusses the shocking details behind the Flint water crisis. Dive deep into the origins of the crisis, where a switch from Detroit's water supply to the contaminated Flint River led to dangerous lead levels and life-threatening health issues for residents. Jordan exposes conflicts of interest, financial motives, and an alleged cover-up that kept Flint residents drinking toxic water for years. He shares his experience uncovering erased evidence, silenced voices, and how the mainstream media moved on—leaving behind a devastated community. This conversation sheds light on broader issues of environmental injustice, regulatory failures, and political corruption, with lessons for communities nationwide. Go Support Jordan! YouTube: statuscoupnews Book: https://a.co/d/gi2kvkU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Step into the gritty underworld of Britain with Chet Sandhu, one of the most notorious gangsters the country has ever seen. Born to Indian immigrants and raised amidst racial hostility in northern England, Chet faced a harsh reality from a young age. Driven by revenge and a desire to protect his family, he navigated from a troubled childhood to becoming a powerful figure in the UK’s crime scene. From his beginnings as a steroid dealer to leading one of Britain’s most infamous criminal operations, Chet's story is one of brutality, survival, and unexpected alliances. Go Support Chet! Book: https://a.co/d/8FfoBcv IG: https://www.instagram.com/chetsandhu666/ Website: https://chetsandhu.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with Mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com #mandopod True Classic! Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @TrueClassic at https://trueclassic.com/connect! #trueclassicpod Mint Mobile! Support the show and get your new 3-month premium wireless plan for just $15 a month at https://mintmobile.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former prison gang shot-caller Ronnie Harrell reveals his journey from a life of violent crime and gang leadership within some of America’s most brutal prisons to personal transformation and advocacy. Ronnie, once a high-ranking member of the Nazi Low Riders and affiliated with the Aryan Brotherhood, shares raw, first-hand insights into prison life, extreme violence, and the influence of gang culture. Now, after years of reflection, sobriety, and self-education, he is using his experiences to make a positive impact. Discover how he developed an educational program to help inmates reintegrate into society, reducing recidivism by inspiring change from within. Join us as Ronnie speaks on camera for the first time about his life, redemption, and his mission to deter future generations from following his path. 🔗 Support Ronnie’s mission against recidivism: Visit https://star223.org This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT Mando! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com! #mandopod Kalshi! Get in on the action and start trading on your favorite markets! Sign up at https://kalshi.com/connect. The first 500 traders who deposit $50 will get a free $20 credit! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tijuana, Mexico—one of the most dangerous cities in the world. This Episode Is #Sponsored By PDS DEBT! Stop waiting and start saving. Get a free debt analysis right now at PDSDebt.com/theconnect In this eye-opening documentary, we dive into the heart of TJ, where crime and violence are part of daily life. With insights from former law enforcement officer Ed Calderon and ex-dope boy Fernando Puente, we uncover the truth behind Tijuana's notorious drug cartels, the shifting dynamics of power, and the impact of U.S. drug policies on local crime. Support Ed and Fernando! Ed YouTube: @manifestoradionetwork3191 IG: https://www.instagram.com/manifestoradiopodcast/ Fernando YouTube: @ElBordoMx IG: https://www.instagram.com/fernandotjmx/ Grab your OFFICIAL The Connect Merch! Very Limited Run, Orders Are Up For 2 Weeks Only! https://theconnectmerch.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Saagar Enjeti from the hit news show "Breaking Points" gives his take on the upcoming U.S. elections and how that could affect the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. He talks about how early and mail-in voting is actually encouraged by both political parties and why he doesn't believe there will be any election disputes or political violence like there were in 2020. He also gave his opinion on America's relationship with Israel and explains why the current policy is bad for American interests. Check out Breaking Points: https://www.youtube.com/@UCDRIjKy6eZOvKtOELtTdeUA Breaking Points premium: https://breakingpoints.locals.com/support Follow Saagar on social media: https://www.instagram.com/esaagar/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this revealing interview, Lewis Ziskin shares his incredible story of being one of the biggest drug traffickers in the United States during the late 1990s. Operating a massive ecstasy empire, Ziskin imported millions of pills from Europe, working with dangerous criminal organizations like the Chinese Triads and the Italian mafia. Ziskin details the high-stakes world of drug trafficking, the massive DEA bust that brought his operation down in 2000, and how he managed to represent himself in court, ultimately beating a life sentence. He talks about the fear, betrayal, and close calls he faced while running his operation, as well as his eventual transformation from a criminal to a successful tech entrepreneur who now supports prison reform and addiction recovery programs. Go Support Louis! YouTube: @louisziskin1357 IG: https://www.instagram.com/louisziskin/ New Startup: https://www.oculi.ai/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Reporter Chris Dalby dives into the inner workings of the CJNG; Mexico's most violent cartel. As the Sinaloa cartel spirals into civil war, the CJNG is prime to become the dominant organization in the country and Chris explains how they might go about it. He gives unbelievable facts about the group's way of doing business, their history, and dives into the rumors about El Mencho's existence. His work on Jalisco's criminal organization is unrivaled. You don't want to miss this one! Go Support Chris! Book: https://www.amazon.com/CJNG-Quick-Mexicos-Deadliest-Cartel/dp/9083423913 World Of Crime: https://worldofcrime.net/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Donald Wayne Tomkins, aka "El Primo," shares his gripping journey from hustling in the slums of Detroit to becoming a key distributor for Mexican cartels. Tomkins talks about his connections with cartel leaders like Mayo Zambada, navigating dangerous betrayals, and surviving high-stakes situations. He also dives into his time in federal prison, his collaboration with the DEA, and exposes untold secrets about El Chapo and the inner workings of the drug trade. Go Support Donald! Book: https://www.amazon.com/EL-PRIMO-BLACK-SINALOA-CARTEL/dp/B0CFZ5F41H YouTube: @OfficialElPrimo1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Navy SEAL and Blackwater team leader Jimmy Watson opens up about his intense experiences during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Jimmy shares how Blackwater’s aggressive tactics kept them alive, recounts living in Saddam Hussein’s palace, and details the emotional and physical toll combat took on him and his comrades. Jimmy opens up about being involved in the Nisour Square Massacre; one of the most notorious war crimes in U.S. history. From constant firefights to traumatic injuries, Watson reflects on the darker side of war and how he found healing through Operation Restore Warrior. This is a raw and powerful story of war, survival, and redemption. Go Support Jimmy! Website: https://www.jimmywatson.co/ YouTube: @MightyWarrior24 IG: https://www.instagram.com/mightywarrior24/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mightywarrior2024 Operation Restored Warrior: https://operationrestoredwarrior.org/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Download the app today and use code CONNECT to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT Wondery! Follow MRBALLEN’S MEDICAL MYSTERIES on the Wondery app or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Erik Prince, the CEO of the notorious private military contractor Blackwater, talks about the recent escalation between Israel, Hezbollah, and Iran. As Israel sends ground forces into Southern Lebanon, the implications of this move are examined in light of past conflicts and Iran’s missile response. He discuss the broader geopolitical consequences, including the potential for Russian involvement and the role of the U.S. in the region. Erik exposes U.S. military spending, foreign aid, and his vision for a more self-reliant approach to global conflicts. Go Support Erik! YouTube: @OffLeashwithErikPrince Phone: https://unplugged.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Civilian-Warriors-Inside-Blackwater-Unsung/dp/1591847451/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive deep into the captivating life of George Gleckler, one of America's most prolific pot smugglers. George discusses his 40-year career in drug trafficking, his childhood trauma, and his eventual transformation into a psychologist. From unloading tons of pot from Colombian ships off the coast of New York to becoming a certified therapist in Los Angeles, George shares jaw-dropping stories of his smuggling days, his brushes with the law, and his journey toward healing and redemption. This is an episode filled with thrilling tales, raw emotions, and powerful insights into the human psyche. Go Support George! George's Practice: https://npidb.org/doctors/behavioral_health/marriage-family-therapist_106h00000x/1356599534.aspx This Episode Is #Sponsored By MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at shopmando.com! #mandopod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Controversial investigative reporter Chris Todd returns to uncover startling new evidence that challenges the official narrative of Kurt Cobain's death, suggesting premeditated murder and revealing the involvement of multiple individuals. He dives into the suspicious details surrounding Cobain's final days, the inconsistencies in the investigation, and the shocking claims about who might have been involved. Additionally, Chris discusses exposes a major scandal involving Diddy, with allegations of abuse and incriminating material that could lead to significant legal consequences. Do you believe what Chris has to say? Let us know in the comments! Support Chris! Books: Ron's Revenge: https://www.amazon.com/RONS-REVENGE-Chris-Todd/dp/B08KTWGY64 Forest For The Trees: https://www.amazon.com/Forest-Trees-Indiana-murdered-teenage/dp/B0BKFKS1BL Email: investigatorla19@gmail.com Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the gripping life of former mafia boss Anthony Arillotta from Springfield, Massachusetts. In this raw and unfiltered interview, Anthony opens up about his early days growing up in a mob-entrenched culture, the brutal initiation process, and his rise within the notorious Genovese crime family. From hijacking trucks to striking million-dollar deals, Arillotta recounts the violent, high-stakes world of organized crime. He also reflects on the decisions that led to his eventual downfall and the turbulent path he took toward survival. Witness firsthand stories of mob hits, truck hijackings, gambling empires, and the dangerous game of power and loyalty that defined the Mafia in the '80s and '90s. This eye-opening interview offers an inside look at the ruthless mentality required to survive in the Mafia and the human cost of living that life. Go Support Anthony! Book: https://www.amazon.com/South-End-Syndicate-Genovese-Springfield/dp/1949590755 IG: https://www.instagram.com/anthony_bingy_arillotta/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By PRIZEPICKS Download the PrizePicks app today and use code CONNECT for a first deposit match up to $100! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sharp, a former Las Vegas pimp turned popular podcaster, sits down with Johnny Mitchell to reveal the harsh realities of pimping and the lessons he's learned from his time in the game. From growing up in poverty to navigating the complexities of street life, Sharp shares the untold truths of pimping, its misconceptions, and how he transitioned into podcasting with Sharp Tank on the No Jumper Network. Today, he uses his platform to support at-risk youth and victims of human trafficking. Watch as he reflects on his past, discusses stereotypes, and talks about his new purpose. Go Support Sharp! Podcast: SHARP TANK on @NoJumper YouTube: @THASHARPONE IG: https://www.instagram.com/tha_sharp_one/ This episode is #sponsored by MOOD Head over to https://mood.com/ and use promo code CONNECT at checkout to get 20% OFF your first order PLUS a FREE 5 count pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode we dive deep into the extraordinary life story of Ian Heinisch, a professional UFC middleweight fighter and crypto investor with a past that sounds like a Hollywood movie. Before becoming a top-ranked fighter, Ian was involved in international drug trafficking and spent years on the run, crossing paths with dangerous criminals across the globe. Join us as Ian shares his journey from growing up in a middle-class family in Denver, Colorado, to becoming one of the most wanted men in Europe, smuggling drugs for Colombian cartels, and surviving in some of the most dangerous prisons in Spain. Discover how he turned his life around, embracing MMA while behind bars, and rapidly climbing the ranks in the UFC after his release. In this candid conversation, Ian opens up about his past mistakes, the lessons he learned along the way, and his redemption through fighting and investing. This is a story of resilience, transformation, and the power of second chances. Go Support Ian! YouTube: @CryptoKings888 IG: https://www.instagram.com/ianheinischmma This Episode Is #Sponsored By PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/MITCHELL and use code MITCHELL and get $50 instantly when you play $5! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

George Christie, a long-time member and former chapter president of the Hells Angels in Ventura, California, discusses his experiences with the club, including surviving rival clubs, internal beef, and numerous federal indictments. George debates whether the Hells Angels are a criminal organization or just a motorcycle club with some problematic members. He discusses internal power struggles within the Hells Angels, particularly with Sunny Barger, and reflects on the challenges law enforcement faces in prosecuting the gang due to its complex structure and autonomous operations. Now retired, Christie has distanced himself from the club and reflects on his past, emphasizing that while the Hells Angels engaged in criminal acts, they also sought to maintain a certain code and order within their ranks. Go Support George! Website: https://www.georgechristie.com/ YouTube: @GeorgeGusChristie Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/georgechristie IG: https://www.instagram.com/georgechristiejr/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By PrizePicks! Download the app today and use CONNECT for a first deposit match up to $100! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Arevalos came home to Southern Indiana after his service in the military feeling directionless. He quickly fell into the vicious cycle of opioid addiction that plagued his hometown. Now in the dark world of drugs, he began a life criminal activity and before long was sentenced to federal prison time. Chris was sent to Big Sandy, one of the most notorious prisons in the federal system. He was immediately recruited by La Eme-- The Mexican Mafia. He describes life inside La Eme and his experiences as a member. Chris was fortunate enough to get out of the gang and turn his life around. This is the story of Chris overcoming addiction, surviving prison gang life, and his story of redemption by not letting his mistakes define his future. This episode is #sponsored by the following brands: ROCKET MONEY Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://www.rocketmoney.com/connect BLUECHEW Visit https://bluechew.com/ and try BlueChew FREE when you use our promo code MITCHELL at checkout, just pay $5 shipping! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sammy "The Bull" Gravano is one of the most famous and notorious mafia figures in history. He was John Gotti's right hand man. He helped Gotti become the boss of the Gambino Crime Family and did PLENTY to get his hands dirty. When him and John were arrested by the FBI, Sammy made the decision to cooperate and help put the Teflon Don in prison for good. This is his story. Go Support Sammy! YouTube: @officialsammythebull IG: https://www.instagram.com/officialsammythebull/ Podcast: https://www.ourthing.tv/ This episode is #sponsored by the following brands: MANDO Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo MITCHELL at https://shopmando.com/ ! #mandopod MOOD Head over to https://mood.com/ and use promo code CONNECT at checkout to get 20% OFF your first order PLUS a FREE 5 count pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Andrew Bustamante is a well known retired CIA spy. He gives us insight on how the CIA operates from an insiders perspective. He breaks down how intelligence is collected both inside and outside the boundaries of international law. Andy and Johnny have some heated debates over the concept of "The Deep State", international tensions, and the ethics of US involvement around the world. Go Support Andrew! Website: https://everydayspy.com Podcast: @EverydaySpyPodcast This episode is #sponsored by MOOD. Head over to https://mood.com/ and use promo code CONNECT at checkout to get 20% OFF your first order PLUS a FREE 5 count pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Hal Bradley is a pastor in the Pacific Northwest. But before he joined the ministry and became a counselor he was a lieutenant in the Sinaloa Cartel during the 70s and 80s. Fresh out of the marines, he reconnected with friends he made on a trip to Mexico when he was a teenager, only to find out they were now part of a major crime syndicate. He joined up and became responsible for their operations in the Northwest United States. But the realities of this life and the people he was involved with made him rethink the path he had chosen. He then turned himself in and spent 20 years helping the federal government dismantle the organization he was once working with. Today he helps people struggling with addiction as a way to further combat the sins of his past. His story of redemption is an inspiring one. Go Support Dr. Bradley! https://www.hostingauthors.com/authors/DrHal This Episode Is #Sponsored By BlueChew! Visit https://bluechew.com/ and try BlueChew FREE when you use our promo code MITCHELL at checkout, just pay $5 shipping! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Despite growing up in a strict military home in Houston, Texas, Rex Holloway became a troublemaker at a young age. Falling into the wrong crowd, he quickly found himself in the world of drugs, burglary and armed robbery. This lifestyle caught up with him when he was arrested and sentenced to 10 years in prison. Once inside, he continued a path of destruction and joined the Aryan Brotherhood of Texas gang. Rex quickly built a name for himself in the gang and became a shot caller. He spent a lot of his time in and out of solitary confinement and giving orders to other members in the prison. Then one day after an attempted hit gone wrong, Rex began to rethink his life and the decisions that held led him there. He decided to quit the gang and turn his life around. Since he has gotten out of prison he helped other people, become a successful businessman and has a great family life. This is the story of Rex's incredible redemption from gang leader to health coach and philanthropist. Go Support Rex! Executive Powerbuilding: https://a.co/d/ie8tbDo The Wolf And The Lion: https://a.co/d/60jOLDr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rexholloway Website: https://rexhollowaywriter.com/ This episode is #sponsored by Rocket Money! Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://www.rocketmoney.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is the story of the Saltwater Cowboys; a group of backwoods hippies that became the largest pot smugglers in American History and changed the course of trafficking in not only South Florida, but the entire United States. The surviving members tell us how the operation began and the massive federal takedown that landed them in prison, plus the aftermath of everything once it was done. This is a glimpse into a piece of American History as well as the people involved and how they changed their lives after being one of the most clandestine criminal organizations ever. Go Support Tim and Craig! Tim's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Saltwater-Cowboy-Rise-Marijuana-Empire/dp/1250051282 Tim's IG: https://www.instagram.com/originalsaltwatercowboy/?hl=en Tim's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southwestfloridaoutlaw/ Craig's Boat Tours: https://www.captaincraigsadventures.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By BlueChew! Visit https://bluechew.com/ and try BlueChew FREE when you use our promo code MITCHELL at checkout, just pay $5 shipping! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jay Dobyns was an ATF agent looking for undercover work. When he was told he was being sent in to infiltrate the notorious Hell's Angels gang he apprehensive to say the least. The gang was known for drug smuggling and being extremely violent. He reluctantly took the assignment and quickly ingratiated himself with one of the biggest motorcycle gangs in history. As he moved up and got closer to being "patched in" he learned more about the inner workings. His years of being undercover led to a massive RICO case that took down numerous members of the organization. He's here to tell us all about it. Go Support Jay! Website & Books: https://jaydobyns.com/index.html This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following Brands: BlueChew! Visit https://bluechew.com/ and try BlueChew FREE when you use our promo code MITCHELL at checkout, just pay $5 shipping! Field Of Greens! Visit www.fieldofgreens.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for 15% OFF plus FREE SHIPPING! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Packouz's life started as a fairly normal one. When he was 23 he began working with his childhood friend Efraim in his new arms business. They began securing government contracts to supply arms to the US military during the second Gulf War. To increase their revenue and contracts they began sourcing ammunitions from China via Albania which was illegal to do. When the US Government caught on to what they were doing, it resulted in federal indictments, betrayal and prison time. David's story was told in the Hollywood blockbuster movie WAR DOGS. He's here today to tell us exactly how everything went down! Go Support David! Courses: https://wardogsacademy.com Music Company: https://www.singularsound.com/ InstaFloss: https://instafloss.com/ This Episode Is #sponsored By CUTS CLOTHING Refine your style with @cutsclothing and get 20% off with code CONNECT at cutsclothing.com/connect! #cutspartner Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cavario Hodges was raised in Harlem, New York. His entire family was involved in the illegal drug business in NYC for generations. He grew up around notorious figures like Nicky Barnes and Frank Lucas. Naturally, being surrounded by such activity led him down a similar path. He eventually starting running his own dope operation in Baltimore. His activities here was the foundation for the popular show The Wire. Seeing his future ending with either prison or death, he was saved by a spiritual awakening and left the criminal life for good. He tells us all about his road from kingpin to finding a higher and healthier purpose in life. Cavario also gives incredible insight and history of the drug trade in the Eastern United States. He is now an accomplished author and journalist and even conducts interviews for platforms like VladTV. Go Support Cavario! Website (all books available here): https://themindplugacademy.com/ YouTube: @Cavario.Online IG: https://www.instagram.com/themindplug/ This episode is #sponsored by Rocket Money! Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://www.rocketmoney.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tony Hernandez grew up surrounded by the Mafia in Queens, New York. In fact, his uncle was one of the leaders of the French Connection. As a kid, Tony would hang out in the bars and social clubs that his uncle ran for the other wise guys. But for some reason, Tony went the other way. He became a New York City cop, where he worked for ten years down in the subway system. Despite having grown up around the criminal element, Tony says that crime in NYC NOW is out of control! Go Support Tony! YouTube: @CorruptionConnection IG: https://www.instagram.com/corruptionconnection This episode is sponsored by MOOD! Head over to https://hellomood.com/ and use code CONNECT20 for 20% OFF your first PLUS a FREE 5ct pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mikki Mase quickly made a name for himself on the Las Vegas scene by being one of the youngest and most successful high rollers in the city. He's been featured in the World Series of Poker and made MILLIONS at the tables. He got so successful that he eventually became banned throughout all of Vegas. Today he's exposing the cheating tactics that not just the casinos use, but the online gambling sites, who he claims are even more corrupt. We get a glimpse into the life of a young high roller and peek behind the curtain of a multibillion dollar industry full of scams. Go Support Mikki! IG: https://www.instagram.com/dirtygothboi Mikki's Business Venture: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeqo3YBNmgvKJtmBcrnMvCDbegeZ1LjBBpsvpXkIMtrzb_GCg/viewform Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joseph Barone Jr was raised with mob ties; his father was a hitman for the Genovese crime family. So it wasn't long before Joe started running with the same type of people. He got close with the Bonanno Family and started working for them. One day he was pinched by the Feds and when they revealed the truth about his father's death he agreed to flip. He spent the next 18 years giving the FBI information on the inner workings of the mob that led to countless takedowns. He's here to tell us all about it! Check Out Joe's Podcasts! Mafia Roundtable: https://www.youtube.com/@mafiaroundtable The Goodfellow Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGoodfellowPodcast Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow This Episode Is Sponsored By PrizePicks! Download the app today and use CONNECT for a first deposit match up to $100! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Martin Mejias, known on the streets of New York City as Chango, grew up in Harlem after his family immigrated from Puerto Rico. At a young age he was quickly exposed to the illegal drug game in his neighborhood and before long became a part of it. It wasn't long before he was full-on selling and manufacturing crack cocaine and swiftly became a young kingpin with an entire crew working for him. He tells us about his days in the illegal drug market, the bust that landed him in prison, the destruction he caused on his community and family, and decisions that led to him turning his life around. Go Support Chango! IG: https://www.instagram.com/chango_cp5 Chango's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/CHANGO842 This Episode Is Sponsored By ROCKET MONEY Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to RocketMoney.com/CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Investigative journalist, Chris Todd, discusses his research and findings about the infamous OJ Simpson murder case that led to him writing a book about it. He dives into the evidence he found, including a confession, of a second killer, OJ's ties with the mafia and a ring of crime involving drug trafficking that all lead back to the murder itself. Believe him or not, there are some fascinating revelations in this one! Support Chris! Books: Ron's Revenge: https://www.amazon.com/RONS-REVENGE-Chris-Todd/dp/B08KTWGY64 Forest For The Trees: https://www.amazon.com/Forest-Trees-Indiana-murdered-teenage/dp/B0BKFKS1BL Email: investigatorla19@gmail.com This episode is sponsored by MOOD! Visit www.hellomood.co and use code CONNECT20 at checkout for 20% OFF your first order PLUS a FREE 5 count pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ali Siddiq is a famous standup comedian that headlines and sells out comedy clubs and theaters around the world. But his path to success in comedy is not a common one. He grew up in Houston's Third Ward surrounded by drug use and crime. At a young age he began selling drugs and quickly built an illegal empire, reaching kingpin status. He was busted by law enforcement and served time in some of the worst prisons in Texas. It was in these prisons that he discovered his talent for speaking and making people laugh. He turned his life around, got out of prison and has created a wildly successful career for himself as a standup. Ali joins the show to talk about his experiences as well as his regrets and lessons learned from his earlier life as a criminal and how he's encouraging people now to live a more positive life. Go Support Ali! YouTube: @AliSiddiqComedy Website: https://alisiddiq.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/alisiddiq/ This Episode Is Sponsored By: PRIZEPICKS Visit https://www.prizepicks.com/ or download the app today and use code CONNECT for a first deposit match up to $100! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris George ran one of the most successful and notorious "pill mill" pharmacies in Florida at the height of the oxycontin opioid epidemic in the late 2000s. He began his criminal career as a teenager buying a selling illegal steroids and eventually ran it through a business front with his brother. In his late 20s he entered the burgeoning pain management industry and quickly Chris and his brother were running the largest pain pill mill company in the state; South Florida Pain Clinic. His entire family entered the business with him and soon he caught the attention of the feds and was eventually served 10 years in prison. Today he runs a legitimate successful business and has been featured in numerous documentaries, television series', and news shows telling his story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Curtis grew up in Orange County, California in area rife with addiction and crime. As a child he was not protected from this reality and in fact was encouraged to be a part of it. Struggling with addiction and turning to a life of crime, Chris ended up getting sentenced to life in prison as a result of California's Three Strikes law. There he found himself in some of the most dangerous institutions in the state. He's on the show to talk about how he ended up getting out of prison with a life sentence, cleaning up and overcoming his addiction, and becoming a mentor of hope for kids just like he was. Go Support Chris! Book: https://www.amazon.com/Orange-County-Dark-Christopher-Curtis/dp/1644565935 IG: https://www.instagram.com/octhedarkside8083/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@octhedarkside8083 Support the show and get 15% off your Perfect Jean order at https://www.theperfectjean.nyc/ with promo code CONNECT15 Head over to https://hellomood.co/ and use code CONNECT20 at checkout for 20% off your first order PLUS a free 5 count pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Barry Minkow is one of the most infamous financial scam artists in American History. By the age of 21 he was running a ponzi scheme worth a billion dollars. He made history by being the youngest person to take a company public with his carpet cleaning business. But what people didn't know was that Barry was using money from the mafia to help fund this business. He ran bank and wire fraud, embezzled money from investors, and much more. Barry was so committed to running scams that he's been convicted more than once- one of these convictions came down WHILE he was helping the feds in fraud cases. He ended serving time in federal prison and turned his life around. He works now with the federal government go after companies that are committing fraud just like he used to. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oscar Castro grew up in New Jersey to a loving family. When he dropped out of high school he immediately got a job and met someone that talked him into being a drug mule for a Colombian organization. As law enforcement began cracking down in Colombia the operations moved to Ecuador. One on pickup Oscar was arrested in Ecuador by Interpol and the DEA. From there he spent 7 years in some of the most horrific jails and prisons in Ecuador where death, drugs, and riots lasting for weeks were common occurrences. He's here to tell us all about his experiences and his journey to turning his life around and wanting to help others avoid going down the path he did as a young man. This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: PRIZEPICKS Visit https://www.prizepicks.com/ or download the app today and use code CONNECT for a first deposit match up to $100! MOOD Head over to https://hellomood.co/ and use code CONNECT20 at checkout for 20% off your first order PLUS a free 5 count pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dominick Cicale grew up in the Bronx burrow of New York City. Surrounded by criminal activity he quickly started associating with mafia and eventually became a "Made Man" with the Bonanno Crime Family. Before long he was made a captain and had over 20 soldiers working for him. He was involved in racketeering, illegal gambling, and even murder. After a particular hit went down he ended up cooperating with the Federal Government to help take down other associates, served time in federal prison, and eventually left the life of crime. Today he is a successful business man and living a fulfilling life with his family. He joins the show to tell his incredible story of going into the deepest depths of organized crime and coming out the other side a changed man! Go Support Dom! EG Vodka: https://egvodka.com/ Preorder The Book: https://theperfectcrimefamily.com/ Podcast: @mafiaroundtable Support the show and secure your online data at https://www.expressvpn.com/CONNECTPOD Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Garet McLendon shares his story of going from addiction and prison gangs to sobriety and recovery. Step into Summer fun activities with Vessi. Visit vessi.com/connect for an automatic 15% off your first purchase at checkout! Garet grew up in Palmdale CA. At a young age he was exposed to the drugs that were rampant in his community. He quickly found himself not only addicted to drugs, but selling them to support his habit. This life led him to spending time in and out of some of America's most dangerous prisons. While in prison he joined gangs and even became a shot caller. Garet is here to share his stories of not just surviving maximum security prison, but his path to sobriety and recovery and how he's helping others get off drugs and avoid the mistakes and lifestyle choices he made as a young man. Go Support Garet and contact him if you need help with addiction recovery! IG: https://www.instagram.com/garetmclendon/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6mc4qAxpztC6D20wzeS91C Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Myron Gaines is the well known and very controversial host of the Fresh And Fit Podcast. What a lot of people don’t know is before he became a famous podcaster and fitness coach, he was a special agent with Homeland Security. After attending Northwestern University, Myron started working with HSI in Loredo, Texas. He was involved with Mexican Cartel stings, wiretaps, undercover operations, and immigration. He joins the show today to tell all about his time as a federal agent, how that field ACTUALLY works, and ultimately that caused him to leave. Go Support Myron's Channels! Fresh And Fit Podcast: @FreshFitMiami Fed Reacts: @FedReacts This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsor: PRIZEPICKS! Head over to https://www.prizepicks.com/connect and use promo code CONNECT for a first deposit match up to $100! Support the show and visit https://www.dietsmoke.com/FREE to try Diet Smoke gummies. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steve James learned the power of money at a young age. In rural Georgia during the 1950s he discovered the basics of business by watching his grandfather hustle ranchers for cattle. He took these lessons and applied them to crime. By the age of 13 he was smuggling in pot from Panama and became the main distributer in his town. He continued scaling his business which eventually led to him trafficking seeds from Afghanistan and starting the first indica grows on the island of Jamaica. He's here to tell us all about his life story; crime, addiction, betrayal and a federal case that landed him the crosshairs of the FBI. Go Support Steve! Website: https://indicathebook.com/ Book On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Indica-Steven-Person-Marijuana-Jamaica-ebook/dp/B09HHNSM4Z This Episode Is #Sponsored By MANDO! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code MITCHELL at www.shopmando.com! #mandopod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matthew Cox shares the details that led to him becoming one of the most wanted men in America by the FBI and the Secret Service. He started as an honest insurance salesman and quickly found himself committing fraud as a mortgage lender. It wasn't long before he found himself creating and stealing identities, forging real estate documents, opening credit lines, faking deaths and borrowing more than 11 million dollars from banks all across the country. Go Support Matt! IG: https://www.instagram.com/insidetruecrime/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@matthewcoxtruecrime YouTube: @InsideTrueCrime FaceBook: https://m.facebook.com/MatthewCoxTrueCrime/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Shark-Housing-Pool-Matthew-Cox/dp/B0851KBYCF Art: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CoxPopArt This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsor: RocketMoney! Visit https://www.rocketmoney.com/connect and stop wasting your money TODAY! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Understanding multi-layered news like government corruption is easier with Ground News. Go to https://ground.news/theconnect to get 30% off their unlimited access Vantage plan. Jeff Turner is a brilliantly talented designer and printer. Little did he know that those skills would help feed a drug addiction by printing some of the most realistic counterfeit bills that the Secret Service has ever seen. He has been described as the Picasso of counterfeit money. Jeff joins the show to detail how he taught himself the art of printing fake money, the rise of his scam, and the moment he was caught by the federal government and sent to prison. His work was so legendary that the Feds praised him for his sophistication and even had him film tutorials for them on his process. Today he is running a legitimate printing business, sober and being a positive influence for his kids! Go Support Jeff! IG: https://www.instagram.com/j.turner727/ Website: https://graphicalwarehouse.com/ YouTube: @jeffreypatrickturner Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matty Boy hails from California’s Bay Area. As a young kid he was exposed to the criminal life by his parents who were both affiliated with the Hell’s Angels and CA prison gangs. It wasn’t long before he joined the life and started selling huge amounts of meth. In this time he started a street gang called FAIM- Family Affiliated Irish Mafia. This path sent him straight to federal court where he was looking at potentially life in prison. He’s here to talk about his life in the criminal world, starting a white prison gang, and how he turned his life around and started his new chapter as a well known rapper! Go Support Matty Boy! IG: https://www.instagram.com/mattyboy1417/ YouTube: @mattyboymusic4020 This episode is sponsored by PRIZEPICKS! Head over to https://www.prizepicks.com/connect and use promo code CONNECT for a first deposit match up to $100! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Criminal Defense Lawyer, Nicholas Rosenberg, has defended some of the most dangerous people in the criminal world of Los Angeles. He walks us through the unconventional road he took to criminal law. He goes into detail about how the criminal justice system works, the corruption, and the tips he has for anyone that gets caught up in the law. Plus a discussion about a current case he’s working that is on the path to become an historical case in the state of California! Go Support Rosenberg! Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XANVDdM0IcE IG: https://www.instagram.com/attorneyrosenberg/ Website: https://losangelesdefenders.com/ This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsor: RocketMoney! Visit https://www.rocketmoney.com/connect and stop wasting your money TODAY! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

JD Delay spent much of his life in and out of prison. So much so, that he eventually found himself as the shot caller for the Irish Pride prison gang in Oregon’s maximum security prison. He explains how he climbed the ranks, the politics on the inside, the horrors he witnessed and the ones he partook in. He also describes the moment he chose to turn his life around, get sober, and help others in recovery when he got out to make sure no one goes down the same path he did. It’s a must listen! Go Support JD! YouTube: @JdDelay5150 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jddelay5150?lang=en Clothing Brand: https://convictclothing.net/ This episode is sponsored by PRIZEPICKS! Head over to https://www.prizepicks.com/connect and use promo code CONNECT for a first deposit match up to $100! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Use CONNECT to get 55% off your first month at Scentbird https://sbird.co/3S97oZX This month I received... Sugar Leather by Une Nuit Nomade https://sbird.co/47N4JLh French Defense by Mind Games https://sbird.co/3SsriAC Cross River Gorilla by Sanctuary https://sbird.co/3u6mIyA Vidal Guzman was a troublemaker as a young kid in Harlem. His knack for stick-ups and robberies landed him in Rikers Island at the age of 16. When he went back at the age of 19 he was a member of the Bloods Gang. While he spent years in Rikers before serving his time in prison he was subject to inhumane conditions by not only the other inmates but by the faculty and the state of the facilities. Once he got out for good he became an organizer working to shut Rikers down for good. He’s here to tell us about his experience on the island and the SUCCESSFUL campaign he’s been a part of! Go Support Vidal! Organization: https://www.americaontrialinc.org/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamvidalguzman/?hl=en To donate to AOT visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/AmericaOnTrialFundraiser/donate?ucdirect=1 00:00:00 - Surviving Rikers Island 00:07:34 - Criminal Upbringing and Family Influence 00:14:51 - Living in Washington Heights  00:22:40 - From the Hood Vikings to the Bloods 00:30:19 - The Beginning of Neighborhood Protection 00:37:56 - Growing Up in a Dangerous Neighborhood 00:45:39 - Introduction to Rikers Island 00:53:27 - The Rocking Spots and Gang Violence at Rikers Island 01:01:12 - Survival in the Violence of the Streets 01:09:25 - Surviving In Jail 01:16:46 - Facing Harassment and Trouble with the Law 01:24:30 - Life in the Hood and Joining the Bloods 01:32:11 - Bloods and Street Organization 01:40:12 - Discussing parole and probation violations 01:48:17 - The Phone Business in Prisons and its Dangers 01:56:00 - Violent Incidents on Rikers Island 02:04:06 - Life in Gangs and Solitary Confinement 02:12:08 - Losing Good Time and the Impact on Parole 02:19:56 - Violations and Dangers of Rikers Island 02:27:45 - Closing Rikers and the Impact 02:35:46 - Sponsorship Announcement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gene Borrello was part of the last generation of NYC’s wild wise guys. He joined the Bonnano Crime Family at a young age and quickly got close with the family’s boss. His reputation of violence and brutality made him a name that everyone in the city feared. After being indicted on RICO charges he eventually flipped on his former crime associates and entered witness protection. He’s here to tell us all about the final days of the mob as the world knew it! Go Follow Gene! IG: https://www.instagram.com/geneborrello/ Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXcEOVWzV1YqvHd0vn94aeFLJrLgntzqP Book: https://www.amazon.com/Born-LIfe-Borrello-Ex-Bonanno-Enforcer/dp/1667805576 This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsor: RocketMoney! Visit https://www.rocketmoney.com/connect and stop wasting your money TODAY! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ray Trapani is one of the minds behind Centra Tech; a cryptocurrency company that defrauded HALF A BILLION DOLLARS from investors. He and two friends created the business selling the idea of a new tech that didn't actually exist yet. His story has trauma, wild parties, addiction, an imaginary CEO, faked deaths, Floyd Mayweather and so much more! Go Follow Ray! IG: https://www.instagram.com/raytrapani/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anthony Ruggiano was quite literally BORN into the mafia. His father was Fat Andy Runggiano, one of the most notorious capos for the Gambino Crime Family. It didn’t take long for Anthony to follow his father’s footsteps and start earning for the mob. He came up with John Gotti and the two became close friends and associates. Living a life of extortion, burglary, murder, and drug addiction took its toll on Anthony landing him in and out of prison. Then one he was picked up by the FBI in a RICO indictment that eventually led to him becoming a federal witness, landed him in witness protection, and eventually turned his life around. Today, he is sober, legitimate, and coming to terms with the regrets and guilt of his prior life. He’s here to talk all about it! Go Support Anthony! Website: https://www.anthonyruggiano.com/ YouTube: @AnthonyRuggiano IG: https://www.instagram.com/anthonyruggianojr/ This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsor: Go to PrizePicks.com/connect and use code connect for a first deposit match up to $100! Support the show and get 50% off of Factor at https://www.factormeals.com/CONNECT50 and use code CONNECT50 Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Freeway Ricky Ross has one of the most infamous drug dealer stories in the world. He is undoubtedly a part of American history and by far one of the most requested guests on The Connect. Rick joins the show to discuss his time as one of the lynchpins of the crack epidemic in the 1980s, his regrets and lessons learned, finding out he was a pawn in an illegal CIA operation and how he got out from under a life sentence in prison. He also discusses his new life after prison, how he’s helping others learn from his mistakes, and his new business ventures! Go Support Rick! Books and Merch: https://b7eab896-adc4-474a-9ab1-56ec7dd1576a.godaddysites.com/shop YouTube: @FreewayRickyRoss1 New Shop In LA: https://www.instagram.com/freewayrickys/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/freewayricky/ Website: https://freewayrickyross.com/ This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsor: Support the show and visit MOOD Go to https://hellomood.co/ and use code CONNECT20 for 20% off your order and code CONNECTFREE for a FREE 5ct pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tegan Broadwater joins the show to explain exactly how he, a touring musician, became a cop in Fort Worth, Texas and ended up going undercover and infiltrating one of the most notorious Crip gang sets in all of Texas. He gives details of how he climbed the ranks, was almost found several times, had close encounters with death, and eventually took the set down in a 51 man roundup. Go Support Tegan! Life In The Fish Bowl Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0578661624 YouTube: @UncommonSouls IG: https://www.instagram.com/teganbroadwater/?hl=en Website: https://teganbroadwater.com/ This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: Support the show and visit MOOD Go to https://hellomood.co/ and CONNECT20 for 20% off your order and code CONNECTFREE for a FREE 5ct pack of gummies! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rich Laferrere was a simple dispatcher and driver for a transportation company in a small Connecticut town. Before too long he found himself putting those skills to use smuggling pot all across the eastern seaboard. This new found business eventually scaled to the point of having connects across the country and eventually landing him in the spot as the top logistics person in the US for the most notorious crime family in Canada. He was making millions, powerful and respected...until one day it all came crashing down and he was face to face with the federal government. Today he consults with the DEA and lives a prosperous life running his own business, a far cry from his days as a smuggling kingpin! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6mc4qAxpztC6D20wzeS91C Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week we bring you a completely exclusive interview with a migrant smuggler who has asked to remain anonymous. He spoke with us at the El Paso/Juarez border. He goes into detail about how he got involved in helping migrants cross the border, the organizations and cartels that run the operation, how and why migrants are coming over, as well as insight into the treatment of these on both sides of the border and the direction he believes this is all headed. It’s a one of a kind, fascinating conversation with a perspective you won’t get anywhere else! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Mikki Mase went from being homeless and addicted to drugs to a sober life running several small businesses. Within a couple years he found himself making big money at the tables in Vegas and quickly became one of the cities’ most notorious high rollers. He joins the show to discuss how he discovered the casino industry cheats its customers, how he flipped the tables on the house, and the work he’s doing now to help people recover from gambling addictions! Go Support Mikki! The Innocence Project: https://innocenceproject.org/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/dirtygothboi/ Mikki’s Recovery Project: https://www.instagram.com/shakenhearts/ YouTube: @dirtygothboi This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: Support the show and secure your online data at https://www.expressvpn.com/CONNECTPOD Support the show & get Factor for 50% off at https://www.factormeals.com/CONNECT50 & use code CONNECT50 Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ed Calderon grew up in Tijuana, Mexico. At a young age he was a rebel committing petty crimes until one day he found himself as part of an elite squad of Mexican law enforcement, tasked with taking down the cartel. He came on the show to talk about being front line in one of the most notorious cartel wars in Mexican history, the current and future state of Tijuana, and the existential crisis that both Mexico and the U.S. are facing together. Go Support Ed! Website: https://www.edsmanifesto.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/manifestoradiopodcast/ YouTube: @manifestoradionetwork3191 This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: PrizePicks: https://www.prizepicks.com/connect Promo Code: CONNECT Magic Mind: https://try.magicmind.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Germano Tomassetti was living in a homeless shelter in Winnipeg, Canada as a young adult when he befriended a high ranking member of the Canadian mob. He soon found himself collecting debts, blackmailing wealthy business owners, and running scams all around the globe. He was making millions of dollars until one day it all came crashing down. He's here today to tell us about his days as an international criminal and what led him to leave it all behind and change his life. Go Support Germano! IG: https://www.instagram.com/therealgermanotomassetti/ This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: Manscaped: https://www.manscaped.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Journalist, Luis Chaparro, sat down at the U.S.-Mexico border in Juarez to discuss the current immigration crisis. He explains how Ciudad Juarez has become the number one crossing point for migrants getting into the United States, how criminal organizations AND government officials have profited, and toll it's taken on the citizens on both sides. Go Support Luis! IG: https://www.instagram.com/luiskuryaki/ YouTube: @luischaparro   This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsor: Get 50% off of Factor at https://www.factormeals.com/connect50 and use code connect50 Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6mc4qAxpztC6D20wzeS91C Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gary Heyward started as a normal jail guard fresh out of the marines. But after financial struggles and exposure to corruption from other corrections officers he soon began running a smuggling ring bringing in tobacco, drugs, and women to the inmates. This behavior eventually landed him in the role of inmate, completely changing his life. Go Support Gary! Book: https://a.co/d/bd09oab  YouTube Channel: @garyheyward   This Episode Is Sponsored by PrizePicks!  Visit https://www.prizepicks.com/connect for a first deposit match up to $100! Need some boost to your mental clarity? Try Magic Mind! https://magicmind.com/  For bonus content sign up for the Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ian Bick, a kid from a gated community in Connecticut, started throwing parties for other kids his age. He quickly found a calling in promoting and by his late teens he was booking concerts for some of the biggest artists at the time. His investors were promised big returns on their money as his business was booming. Little did they know, not only was he not making their money back, but he was spending on a lavish lifestyle... Go Support Ian! Website: https://www.ianbick.com/ YouTube Channel: @ianbickCT   This Episode Is Sponsored by BetterHelp!  Visit betterhelp.com/connect for 10% off your first month! Need some boost to your mental clarity? Try Magic Mind! https://magicmind.com/  For bonus content sign up for the Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charlie Webster, renowned journalist and host of the successful Surviving El Chapo series, joins the show to discuss the Flores Twins. She spent years interviewing them and getting deep insight to the two brothers that became some of the largest kingpins in the world and then making the shocking decision to work with American feds to take down one of the most wanted men on the globe.  Go Support Charlie! Surviving El Chapo Podcast: https://lionsgatesound.com/shows/surviving-el-chapo  IG: https://www.instagram.com/charliewebster/  This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsor: MOOD: https://hellomood.co/  Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6mc4qAxpztC6D20wzeS91C Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Larry Rolla started out as a young kid in Queens surrounded by the tough life of 1950s NYC youth gangs and wise guys. He went from stickups to finding a passion and calling in horse training and racing. After a corrupt racetrack owner sent him into the grips of poverty his legitimate, reformed life quickly turned into fixing races for the mob and a gripping gambling addiction. Larry joins the show to tell us all about his odyssey.  Go Support Larry! Book: amazon.com/Against-All-Odds-Larry-Rolla/dp/1729108598 Website: https://larryrolla.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RollasCorner  YouTube: @LarryRolla This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: Manscaped: https://www.manscaped.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT FUM: https://tryfum.com/  Promo Code: CONNECT MOOD: https://hellomood.co/  Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Crip Mac is a member of the dangerous 55th Street Crips in Los Angeles. He has spent his life in and out of county jail and state prisons. Mac joins the show to describe how life works in the Crips organization, on the deadly streets of South Central, and the violent rules of gangs in prison. Check Out Crip Mac! IG: https://www.instagram.com/55thstreet_/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@therealcripmac YouTube: @55thstreet_ and @macventures   This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com/connect Promo Code: CONNECT MOOD: https://hellomood.co/  Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike Dowd, a former NYPD officer, explains how shortly after becoming a cop in Brooklyn’s 75th Precinct, he started taking dirty money and eventually became a drug dealer himself. He was taken down in one of the most notorious federal cases against police corruption in American history and served time in federal prison. Mike tells us his entire story from young hopeful police officer to reformed criminal. Check Out Mike On Social Media! IG: https://www.instagram.com/themikedowd/  X: https://twitter.com/TheMikeDowd  This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: PrizePicks: https://www.prizepicks.com/connect Promo Code: CONNECT for up to $100 match on your first deposit MOOD: https://hellomood.co/  Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a teenager from Yonkers, Lillo Brancato was discovered by Robert De Niro to shot to fame starring in the critically acclaimed A Bronx Tale. A decade later he found himself addicted to drugs, struggling to work, and facing a second degree murder charge in the fatal shooting of a police officer. He joins us to talk about his road from actor, to inmate, to community leader. Check Out Lillo's Recovery Work And IG! More Life Recovery Center: https://moreliferecoverycenter.com/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/lillo_brancato/ This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: HelloFresh: https://www.hellofresh.com/50connect Promo Code: 50CONNECT PrizePicks: https://www.prizepicks.com/connect Promo Code: CONNECT Mood: https://hellomood.co/ Promo Codes: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a young immigrant child in New York City's Chinatown, Jimmy "Bighead" Tsui quickly became immersed in the gang world of the Lower East Side. He quickly rose the ranks and soon became an associate of the Chinese Mafia in Hong Kong moving drugs in and out of the country. He joins the show to breakdown exactly how Chinese gangs operated in the US and Hong Kong before he left the life of crime, became a volunteer police officer, and started being a positive influence on the youth in the neighborhood that raised him. Check Out Chinatown Gang Stories! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ @chinatowngangstories   IG: https://www.instagram.com/chinatowngangstories/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ @chinatowngangstories  This Episode Is Brought To You By The Following Sponsors: HelloFresh: https://www.hellofresh.com/50connect Promo Code: 50CONNECT BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com/connect Promo Code: CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David "Chicky" Cicchetelli was a young man in Springfield, Massachusetts when joined a mafia boss from the infamous Genovese Crime Family. What started as petty loan sharking quickly turned into a multimillion dollar illegal bookie business for Chicky. Years after doing time for that, he ended up getting rolled up in the biggest indictment in East Coast history...  Follow Chicky! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chickycecchetelli_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Chicky-Cecchetelli/pfbid02AG6oPPw2cim9VecbiAA7p32Ya1M3oRRChi2hw3jATmttUpjMzRkFUZFmYbNZ83x4l/ Support Our Sponsors! FUM: https://tryfum.com/  Pomo Code: CONNECT HelloFresh: https://hellofresh.com/50connect Promo Code: 50CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cristina Cruz grew up in a notorious gang territory of Northeast Los Angeles. At a young age she was jumped into the gang and slipped into a life of crime and drug addiction. It wasn't until she was indicted in a RICO case with over 70 other individuals that she got sober, turned her life around, and became a successful podcast host. Her story is one of loss and redemption. Support Cristina's Podcast And Teeth Whitening Business! YouTube Channel: @IndictedTV   Spotify: http://bit.ly/IndictedTvSpotify Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelatoothfairy/ Support Our Sponsors! PrizePicks: https://www.prizepicks.com/connect & use code: CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brandon Novak became a household name in the early 2000s after becoming a fixture on the hit shows Jacka$$ and Viva La Bam. But despite the success of fame and professional skateboarding he lived a dark life full of crime and drug addiction. After two decades he's gotten clean and found his calling in life; helping others. Brandon joins the show to tell us all about his life and road to recovery. Support Brandon's Work and Recovery Homes! Website: https://brandonnovak.com/ Novak's House: https://www.instagram.com/novakshouse/?hl=en Support Our Sponsors! Fum: https://tryfum.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT Hello Fresh: https://www.hellofresh.com/connect50 Promo Code: CONNECT50 BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT PrizePicks: https://www.prizepicks.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cookie Hood grew up in both the US and Nicaragua. At a young age she was a socialite and became close with the people that would not only fight in Nicaragua's revolution, but also traffic drugs to help the CIA fund a proxy war that ended in one of the biggest scandals in American history. When she became a journalist for CBS during the Iran-Contra conflict, those old contacts came in handy to help expose secrets of both the American and the Nicaraguan governments! Subscribe to Cookie's Platforms 👇👇👇  https://journalistapodcast.com/ Support our sponsors! PrizePicks: https://www.prizepicks.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Salvatore Polisi was a young kid in New York City when we started doing jobs for the Colombo mafia. He came up with guys like John Gotti and ACTUAL characters from the classic film GoodFellas. He went from loan sharking to dope dealing before really taking off planning heists. He tells us all about his time in the mob, the moment he knew he wanted out, and how he was able to take down a corrupt judge as a state witness. Check out Sal's book: https://a.co/d/5RttFuQ Support our sponsors! Mood: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a full release of a previously Patreon exclusive episode! Roger Reaves grew up as a small town farm boy in the south. After discovering a passion for flying and a need for money he quickly fell into the world of international drug smuggling, leading him to work directly with Pablo Escobar. His life story is a wild one, including being shot out of the air twice and several prison escapes! Support our sponsors! Manscaped: https://www.manscaped.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT20 Mood: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before he was a standup comedian, Richard Villa grew up in Compton where at the age of 8 years old he worked his dad as a drug dealer. Richard joins The Connect to talk about his upbringing in Los Angeles, the trauma of being involved in crime at such a young age, and how he turned his life around and became a successful comedian. Support our sponsors! Mood: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the mysteries of humanity's origins, the construction of the pyramids, the influence of the occult, and the fascination with extraterrestrial life in this deep-dive with Esoteric Eddie. Tracing the path of human evolution, societal control, and the role of consciousness, this video challenges commonly held beliefs, sharing thought-provoking theories from ancient civilizations to modern times. Eddie, a multifaceted artist, and mystic historian share his views on aliens, inter-dimensional entities, and future-human warning theorists.  Support our sponsors! Mood: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6mc4qAx...  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a young man in college, Eric Canori, quickly built an empire that landed him directly in the belly of the smuggling underworld. He devised a sophisticated network that brought thousands of pounds of bud from Canada into upstate New York. Despite having hubs all across the eastern seaboard and making millions of dollars a month, he remained anonymous to almost everyone he worked with, allowing him to operate for over a decade. His downfall involved famous athletes, paying the feds in gold bars, and a famous mob lawyer. Eric is here tell us about his transformation, the lessons he's learned, and the path that has led to living a clean life, free of crime, and writing a book. Support Eric! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericcanori/ Book: https://a.co/d/evFprat Support our sponsors! Hellofresh: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT50 Mood: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chad Marks shares his incredible journey from a 40 year prison sentence to becoming a jailhouse lawyer and running a successful paralegal business that helps inmates reduce their sentences. Chad discusses the need for rehabilitation in the prison system and his contributions to federal prison reform. He delves into the challenges Chad faced before and after his imprisonment, including his strained relationship with his drug-addicted father and the poverty and crime in his neighborhood. He also discusses the changes in sentencing laws and their impact on his own case. Join us in hearing Chad Marks' remarkable story of transformation and his dedication to helping others in the criminal justice system. Support Chad! YouTube Channel:  @bloodontherazorwiretv  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadmarks101/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Razor-Wire-journey-through/dp/B08N9DP62B Legal Work: https://www.freedomfighterspc.com/ Support our sponsors! Mood: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this captivating video, we hear from Fernando Puente, a former member of the Tijuana Cartel who turned his life around to become a music producer for narco corridos. Fernando shares his experiences, giving us a firsthand account of the cartel wars in Tijuana. From growing up in the 90s when crossing the border was easy, to witnessing the militarization of the streets during the cartel wars, Fernando provides valuable insights into the world of cartels. Follow Fernando! IG: https://www.instagram.com/elbordomx/ Podcast:  @ElBordoMx  Support our sponsors! Mood: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6mc4qAxpztC6D20wzeS91C Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McBride, a man out of South West Florida, went from working odd jobs and crab fishing, to leading the largest pot smuggling business on American soil from for a decade. He joins the show talk about his humble beginnings, his rise to the top of a criminal empire, and how he turned his life around after his eventual fall. Support our sponsors! SURFSHARK: Get an exclusive Surfshark deal! Enter promo code CONNECT for an extra 3 months free at https://surfshark.deals/CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content: https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gil Carrillo, the homicide detective that solved the Night Stalker case, talks about his love for hunting murderers, the effects it had on his mental wellbeing, his relationships, and how dark his investigation got. He breaks down the life of a murder cop and how the force has changed since he has retired. Support our sponsors! FREEZE PIPE: https://thefreezepipe.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT for 10% OFF!! Mood CBD: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support The Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The world’s top expert on narcos in Latin America, Luis Chaparro, drops in to give some of the biggest news in organized crime that NO ONE IS TALKING ABOUT. From the current state of Mexican Cartels and the most active war zones throughout to country, to a potential all out fracture of Sinaloa, and shocking news about mega cartels taking over in Colombia and Spain (and it’s not who you think it is)! Follow Luis! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luiskuryaki/  YouTube:  Website: https://www.lchaparro.com/  Support our sponsors! FREEZE PIPE: https://thefreezepipe.com/ Promo Code: CONNECT for 10% OFF!! Support The Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A California surfer bro tells Johnny about his days running a cocaine smuggling operation from Southern California to Australia. Starting off as a small-time pot dealer, he graduated to selling cocaine on college campuses and the finally, to smuggling whole kilos to Australia, where he made millions of dollars and eventually, got caught in a federal sting and spent 4 years in an Australian prison. Support our sponsors! Mood CBD: hellomood.co Promo Code: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former hustler and drug dealer Coss Marte comes on the podcast to tell his epic story of going from small-time corner boy to making $5 million a year delivering high-end cocaine all over Manhattan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Al Lindbloom comes on the show to talk about his years as an associate of a Detroit mafia family. He breaks down all of his rackets from selling weed to heroin to steroids, boat theft, burglary , and extortion, and finally- robbing a bank and taking Detroit PD on a wild high speed chase that landed him in prison for 13 years. SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR- "HELLO MOOD" : https://hellomood.co/ Promo code: CONNECT, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny interviews JC of the  @wrongtostrong  network on YouTube about growing up as a gangbanger in Chicago, trafficking pot for a Mexican Cartel and spending 4 years in a brutal Mexican prison, getting released and starting his own interstate pot empire, serving time in the Feds in America, and finally-- changing his life and becoming a legitimate businessman. Subscribe to JC's page! https://www.youtube.com/@UC-oR-qYEcpN1LocXRm0dHSQ FB: https://www.facebook.com/wrongtostrong Support our sponsors! manscaped.com/products/performance-package PROMO CODE: CONNECT hellomood.co PROMO CODE: CONNECT20, CONNECTFREE Support the Patreon: patreon.com/theconnectshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny interviews Hector Bravo, a former California prison guard. He describes life working on a level 4 prison yard in one of the most dangerous and corrupt prison systems in the country. He talks about witnessing stabbings, riots, and administrative cover-ups, and reveals the reason that he had to walk away and speak out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny visits the Haitian communities of Overtown and Allapattah, interviewing local rappers and documenting the history of the Zo Pound and their influence on the Miami Drug Trade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny interviews Apache, a Cuban-American who moved tons of kilos for the Colombians from the late 80's to the mid-90's. He talks about going from small-time dealer to major middleman, and working with Raul Castro and the Cuban government to help him smuggle his cocaine loads to Miami. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Montenez talks about what it was like growing up as narco royalty in Miami, getting into the game himself and then going to prison, and finally-- becoming the first legitimate millionaire in his family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny interviews Alex Montenez, the nephew of Rafa Salazr, the top general for the Medellin Cartel in Miami in the 1970's and 80's. He talks about what it was like to grow up in cocaine royalty, and tells the true story of being an insider during Miami's coke boom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny visits the Polo Grounds, east Harlem's most notorious housing projects, and gives a history of the violence of the crack era along with Unique Mecca, the former drug kingpin who was responsible for much of that violence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny describes what it's actually like being released from prison, the difficulties of navigating in the free world, and how he moved to Los Angeles after he was released to pursue his dream of being a stand-up comedian. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny returns to the Dominican neighborhood of Washington Heights, New York City- to explore the culture of drug trafficking and to pay homage to the place that made him rich. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Harlem kingpin Unique Mecca takes Johnny through Harlem and Washington Heights, and explains how he was able to take $100 he had left to his name  and turn it into a crack empire worth $50 million a year.  He was then sentenced to Life in prison under the CCE kingpin act, but was released in 2020 under the new "compassionate release" rules for federal inmates.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny meets up with an OG Harlem crack Kingpin  @uniquemeccaaudionyc  to discuss the history of hustling in New York City, as well as Unique's rise from Jamaican immigrant to street hustler in Brooklyn and the South Bronx, where he worked a trap house that made millions of dollars a year when he was still a teenager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny breaks down the slang he used in the streets as a small-time hustler, big time drug trafficker, and then inmate.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny talks about America's new illegal cannabis kingpins-- the Chinese, the spy balloon and the fact that China might be gearing up for war.  And finally, he interviews a former enforcer for the Detroit mafia.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny Mitchell explains how drugs are smuggled throughout the world, how he smuggled them, and the best ways to smuggle in order to reduce your time spent in prison or get away with it altogether.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny visits the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco to witness firsthand the affects of fentanyl on the drug trade in one of the worst slums in North America.  He interviews drug dealers and drug users to get a firsthand account of what life is really like in this infamous district. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny dissects exactly how to make money selling cocaine, who the players are, and how he made a killing selling coke in college.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former inmate Johnny Mitchell talks about almost getting caught smuggling a balloon in prison, getting drunk off prison wine and almost dying, plus the craziest stories he heard from his cellmates.   Sign up for the Patreon!  https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow?fan_landing=true&view_as=public Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Youtube celebrity Big Herc joins the show to talk about his life in the 90's adult film scene, robbing a bank and taking the cops on an insane high-speed chase, and then spending the next 9 years inside one of the most violent federal prisons in America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny talks about his trip to Culiacan and goes in depth on how the most famous drug cartel in the world actually operates today, including the new "boss of bosses," the difference between drug trafficking organizations and the Cartel, and why and how the Cartel is now stronger than the government in Mexico. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny spends a week in Culiacan, stronghold of the world famous Sinaloa Cartel, to view their new dispensary pot operations and interview bodyguards for El Mayo Zambada, the world's most wanted drug trafficker.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ex gangbanger Chad Marks describes getting locked up for 17 years in an extremely violent federal prison, becoming a jailhouse lawyer, and then helping other inmates get released and win their appeals.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny answers fan questions like what the future of drug trafficking looks like, what are his biggest regrets, and the state of his former cellmate Jimmy.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny describes fighting his case from inside the belly of the beast- county jail.  He breaks down the broken bail system and explains the difference between paid lawyers and "dumptrucks," talks about his first jail fight, taking a plea deal, and finally- gives tips on how to stay sane in the midst of the madness.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny describes the day he got arrested-- a high-speed chase with the Portland Police, trying to bribe the cops, and getting interrogated by the DEA.  Finally, he gets charged with federal drug charges.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny describes his time living in Colombia, where he flourished selling coke to tourists, paid off the police, rubbed shoulders with the most powerful drug cartel in the world, and fell in love.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny breaks down day-to-day life in a maximum-security prison, including shot-callers and their function on the yard, how drugs get smuggled in and the underground drug economy, the types of weapons used in shankings and killings, prison riots and how they occur, and his cellmate Jimmy who protected him from being killed by the Aryan Brotherhood.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny describes his first day inside of a maximum-security prison, including a brutal fight that ended in death- as well as meeting his cellmate Jimmy, a top shotcaller at the Two Rivers Correctional Facility.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny breaks down from A to Z the modern cocaine business, from street sales to mid level trafficking to the new kingpins of Europe and the power of the Sinaloa Cartel.  He also tells his own story of traveling to Colombia and getting connected to the Cartels.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny breaks down exactly money laundering works, describes his failures as a drug money launderer, and explains the best ways to launder money and the ultimate goal of being a gangster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny breaks down exactly how he smuggled pot across the country, from picking up product from the Cartel growers in Northern California, to transporting it on the highway back up to Portland, and finally- the ways that he moved it to the his buyers on the East Coast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny talks about getting his start in the marijuana business back in 2004 and his ascent through the ranks of the game until he finally made a million dollars before getting arrested and sent to prison in 2010.  He goes in depth about the industry and how things have changed since legalization. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices