The Connect- with Johnny Mitchell

Martin Munoz up in Anaheim, just minutes from Disneyland—but behind the scenes, his family was connected to a completely different world. In this episode, Martin tells the story of growing up around a family involved in high-level drug trafficking between Mexico and Southern California. He describes an uncle who operated at a major level before mysteriously disappearing in Tijuana, a father who went on to become a major meth and cocaine distributor, and how he eventually found himself stepping into the same business. After his father was arrested, he says his dad’s right-hand man was told: “Go grab my son and let him run with you.” From there, the operation grew fast. Martin eventually found himself receiving as much as 100 kilos of cocaine a week, handling massive amounts of cash, meeting his father’s network of customers, and running stash locations throughout Orange County. He talks about: • Growing up around narcos, gang members, money, and violence in Anaheim • His uncle’s rise—and mysterious disappearance in Mexico • How his father built his own trafficking network • Getting introduced to the business as a teenager • His father’s arrest and the moment he was brought into the operation • Receiving 100 kilos of cocaine per week • Counting and collecting millions of dollars • The surveillance operation that eventually brought the feds to his door • His federal prison sentence and why he finally walked away from the life This is the story of a kid who grew up wanting to become a narco, eventually entered his family’s world, and learned firsthand where that life leads. Go Support Martin! IG: https://www.instagram.com/48ways/ YouTube: @48ways62 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5kZEs5TcRjasUjFpdrdBv0?si=Fu_4vtUzTpGKqys9Tik7zg This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $150 if you win your first $5 lineup! Hims! Ready to build a better sex life? Visit https://hims.com/connect for a personalized plan—for sex, hair, weight loss and more. Prescription products require an online consultation with a licensed healthcare provider who will determine if a prescription is appropriate. Restrictions apply. Individual results may vary. *Based on a survey of Hims customers. See hims.com for full details. GLD! New customers get 40% Off with code MITCHELL at https://gld.com Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Meet Martin Muñiz: Inside a Narco Family Dynasty 2:05 Growing Up Around Anaheim Gangs and Cartel Money 12:05 His Uncle's Meth and Ephedrine Empire 18:54 How the Family Came from Mexico to California 26:54 This Episode Is Sponsored By PrizePicks 28:03 His Uncle's Cartel and International Smuggling Routes 36:29 The Mysterious Disappearance of His Uncle 42:41 Living Between Street Gangs and Drug Kingpins 48:32 How His Father Rebuilt the Family Business 59:10 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 1:00:29 Corruption and Smuggling at the U.S.–Mexico Border 1:07:05 Entering the Drug Game at 18 1:14:00 From Small Deals to Moving Pounds of Meth 1:22:22 Getting Access to His Father's Supply 1:26:18 This Episode Is Sponsored By GLD 1:27:39 His First Big Deal With His Dad 1:39:50 His Father Gets Arrested 1:50:15 Taking Over the Family's Drug Network 1:58:18 His Dad Flees to Mexico and the Business Expands 2:05:04 Stashing and Distributing 100 Kilos of Cocaine 2:12:48 The Dream of Becoming a Kingpin in Mexico 2:23:31 The First Sting and Police Raid 2:31:13 Managing Millions and Tracking Missing Loads 2:40:39 Stolen Drugs, Enforcers, and Cartel Violence 2:49:52 The Hawaiian Distributor Who Became an Informant 2:55:13 Realizing Federal Agents Were Following Him 3:03:56 Why His Father Turned Down El Mayo Zambada 3:12:16 The Plot to Kill Martin 3:18:38 Finding a Tracking Device on His Car 3:26:33 The DEA Arrest and Raids 3:31:30 How the Informant Built a Federal Case 3:42:43 Facing 12 Years in Federal Prison 3:54:15 How His Father Retired from Drug Trafficking 4:03:25 Life After Prison: Rap and the Music Business 4:11:00 Regrets, His Children, and His Father in Mexico Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Diaz Aguilar went to prison at 23 years old and spent the next 22 years inside Mississippi’s notoriously violent prison system. In this episode, Diaz sits down to tell the unbelievable story of how he survived decades behind bars while navigating gang politics, corrupt prison staff, brutal violence, and a massive underground contraband economy. Diaz explains how inmates worked with guards to bring in marijuana, tobacco, liquor, smartphones, and other contraband worth enormous amounts of money inside the prison system. He describes guards cooperating with gangs, violent conflicts between prison factions, years spent in segregation, and the abuse he says he witnessed and experienced at the hands of correctional staff. He also breaks down the case that sent him to prison. Diaz maintains that he was convicted of manslaughter despite no DNA, fingerprints, or physical evidence tying him to the murder weapon. Over time, Diaz became a powerful figure within the prison gang hierarchy and helped operate an organized contraband business that could generate more money than many street hustles. But after spending nearly half his life behind bars, Diaz eventually had to face an entirely different challenge: learning how to live in the free world again. Today, he is rebuilding his life, pursuing professional certifications, working in management, and sharing his story through his memoir, Rosecrans. This is a story about prison corruption, gang politics, survival, institutionalization, and what it takes to start over after 22 years behind bars. Go Support Diaz! IG: https://www.instagram.com/diaz_santiago_55/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@diaz_santiago75 Book: https://a.co/d/00doiiEd This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Freecash! Sign up at https://signupfreecash.com/theconnect and get a $10 bonus! Hit the link, grab your bonus, and start getting rewarded for stuff you're already doing anyway. Shopify! If you’re ready to launch your business before Black Friday, go to https://shopify.com/mitchell to start your free trial. Cloaked! See if your SSN is for sale right now. My sponsor Cloaked will tell you for free in 2 seconds at https://cloaked.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Intro: 22 Years in Mississippi Prison 6:51 Corrupt Guards & Brutal Prison Conditions 13:22 How the Contraband Operation Worked 18:20 This Episode Is Sponsored By Freecash 19:53 Cash, Money Orders & the Prison Economy 25:14 Cell Phones, Contraband Laws & Prison Education 33:37 Growing Up Puerto Rican in Compton 39:48 Gang Life & the Road to Mississippi 44:56 Why He Stayed in Mississippi & the Vice Lords Network 49:01 This Episode Is Sponsored By Shopify 50:11 The Fight That Led to 22 Years in Prison 57:05 The Evidence, Trial & Case Against Diaz 1:03:44 Anger, Isolation & Learning to Survive 1:09:03 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cloaked 1:10:54 His First Years Inside Mississippi Prison 1:17:52 Security Threat Status & Abuse by Guards 1:24:21 Handcuffed, Beaten & Prison Violence 1:30:49 Gang Wars, Stabbings & Prison Riots 1:36:17 Spending Four Years in Solitary Confinement 1:42:05 Prison Weapons & Building Connections With Guards 1:48:03 Smuggling Contraband Through Prison Guards 1:55:44 Rising to the Top of the Contraband Operation 2:02:33 Hidden Stashes & Making Money in Prison 2:08:48 Weed Markups & the Prison Liquor Racket 2:15:57 Smuggling Contraband Through Maintenance Trucks 2:22:03 Adapting Prison Survival Skills to the Free World 2:28:13 Life After Prison, Career Plans & Final Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Scott Anthony had already lived a life most people wouldn't believe. He grew up in Chicago street gangs, robbed drug dealers, trafficked cocaine, fled the United States, lived under aliases, and eventually built a new life in Mexico. Then he discovered another business: Cuban cigars. While still on federal probation, Scott says he began traveling to Cuba, buying hundreds of boxes of cigars, moving them through Mexico, and smuggling them across the U.S. border. What started with 40 boxes eventually grew into loads of hundreds at a time. His customers ranged from wealthy businessmen and cigar dealers to some of Chicago's biggest names—including Michael Jordan. In this episode, Scott breaks down the rise of his Cuban cigar operation, the border seizures, the people who moved the merchandise, his encounters in Cuba, and why he ultimately walked away from the business and put the money into building a legitimate fitness empire in Mexico. This is the story of a career criminal who eventually decided he'd pushed his luck far enough. Go Support Scott! IG: https://www.instagram.com/scottanthonyog YouTube: @ScottAnthonyOG Website: https://www.scottanthonyog.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Preview & Scott Anthony Intro 7:12 Gangs, Prison Influence & the Criminal World 14:58 Early Scores & Blowing the Money 21:55 Police Brutality & Run-Ins With Law Enforcement 28:12 Going From Petty Crime to Bigger Scores 38:17 Robbing Dealers 45:14 The $300K–$400K Drug Score 49:40 Shootout With the Cops 56:26 What Scott Was Wanted For 58:09 Fleeing to Mexico 1:07:35 Robbing Dealers & His Cop Cousin 1:12:26 Starting a New Life in Guadalajara 1:18:25 Fake Names & Living as a Fugitive 1:26:02 The Federales Find Him in Mexico 1:34:20 The Federal Plea Deal & Eight Years Probation 1:44:35 Back in Chicago & Life After the Case 1:53:59 How the Cuban Cigar Hustle Started 1:59:09 Smuggling Cuban Cigars Across the Border 2:04:49 Buying Cigars in Cuba & Moving Them North 2:10:12 Michael Jordan & Celebrity Cigar Customers 2:17:09 Smuggling Costs, Profit Margins & $500 Boxes 2:24:05 How Big the Cigar Operation Became 2:30:16 Could the Cuban Cigar Hustle Work Today? 2:39:40 Divorce, Scott’s Books & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Hells Angel Joby Walters sits down to tell the unbelievable story of how he entered the outlaw motorcycle world at nearly 50 years old, rose through the ranks, survived one of the most infamous biker wars in American history, and eventually walked away from it all. Joby recounts meeting legendary Hells Angel Sonny Barger, earning his patch, and becoming deeply involved in the Arizona club scene during escalating conflicts with the Mongols, Vagos, Bandidos, and other outlaw motorcycle clubs. He gives a firsthand account of the deadly 2002 fight at Harrah’s Casino in Laughlin, Nevada, describing the moments leading up to the violence, the chaos inside the casino, and the death of one of his closest brothers. Joby also tells the incredible story of ATF agent Jay Dobyns infiltrating the Hells Angels, a staged murder used to gain the club’s trust, the moment Joby realized something wasn’t right, and the federal investigation that followed. Facing potentially decades behind bars, Joby fled to Mexico, where he spent years living under a new identity, riding through the mountains, hunting mountain lions and bears, and eventually beginning the spiritual transformation that would change the direction of his life. After prison, violence, betrayal, and losing nearly everything, Joby walked away from the Hells Angels and found a new purpose through faith. Go Support Joby! Website: https://www.jobywalters.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0HC3QQ54S This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Perplexity! Start your free trial of Perplexity Computer today at https://PPLX.ai/CONNECT and experience the next phase of AI. #ad 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. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Cash App Green features, Savings, Direct deposit, Round ups, Overdraft coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $150 if you win your first $5 lineup! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Joby Walters: Hells Angels Outlaw Story 6:15 Getting Sober Before Joining the Hells Angels 11:52 The Bullhead Confrontation 18:08 Meeting Sonny Barger 25:00 This Episode Is Sponsored By Perplexity AI 26:47 From Prospect to Full-Patch Hells Angel 34:18 Expanding the Hells Angels in Arizona 41:16 Early Club Wars & Mongols Tensions 48:15 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 49:25 The Laughlin Riot: How It Started 57:07 The Laughlin Shootout Explodes 1:05:03 Aftermath, Arrests & the Mongols War 1:07:15 This Episode Is Sponsored By PrizePicks 1:08:54 Two and a Half Years in Mexico 1:20:01 The ATF Undercover Infiltration 1:27:33 The Revenge Plot & Fake Murder Setup 1:35:03 Realizing They Were Undercover 1:43:31 Federal Indictments & Conspiracy Charges 1:50:43 Facing Prison & Beating the Federal Case 1:57:40 Getting Out, Probation & Faith 2:04:06 Bandidos, Sonny Barger & Old Club Wars 2:11:03 Old-School Biker Life & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matthew Handy lived through 20 years of addiction, crime, prison, paranoia, and survival before finally turning his life around. In this episode, Matt sits down to tell the wild story of how his life spiraled from early drug use in San Diego to heroin addiction, meth dealing, organized retail theft, credit card fraud, extortion, bank robbery, and cartel-adjacent chaos on both sides of the border. Matt opens up about childhood trauma, prison, the criminal mindset, life in San Bernardino, the explosion of credit card fraud, smuggling drugs from Tijuana, and the moment a bank robbery finally forced him to choose between spending decades behind bars or changing his life. Today, Matt is in recovery, runs the podcast My Last Relapse, and works in addiction treatment helping others escape the same cycle that nearly destroyed him. Go Support Matt! YouTube: @MyLastRelapse Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matt.handy.17/ Rehab: https://www.harmonygrovebh.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Credit Card Fraud, Addiction & Crime 06:58 Growing Up in 1990s San Diego 13:39 Planning a Bank Robbery 18:10 Extorting Doctors & Wealthy Clients 24:14 Childhood Trauma and Early Criminality 29:56 Robberies, Drugs & Firestorm Burglaries 35:20 Prison Life and Using Behind Bars 37:42 The Baby Product Theft Scheme 43:17 Building a Nationwide Retail Theft Operation 49:27 Paranoia, Silent Tape & High-Level Shoplifting 55:22 Prison Didn’t Scare Him Straight 1:03:44 Getting Out, Relapsing & Manipulating Family 1:09:11 Back With His Uncle and Trap House Life 1:13:18 Selling Meth and Joining a Gang Circle 1:19:03 Police Surveillance and Controlled Buys 1:24:03 Major Task Force Bust 1:29:18 Addiction, Choice & Facing Serious Time 1:32:59 Moving to San Bernardino 1:37:04 The Amazon Warehouse Scam 1:42:55 Credit Card Fraud Begins 1:49:31 Running Teams and Moving Merchandise 1:56:33 Paranoia Ends the Fraud Ring 2:00:03 Returning to San Diego and Trying to Get Clean 2:04:02 Relapse, Energy Drink Theft & Street Hustles 2:09:43 Meeting His Future Wife 2:15:03 Doctors, Escorts & Blackmail 2:18:07 COVID, Fentanyl and Crime in San Diego 2:22:19 Tijuana Drug Houses and Border Runs 2:27:37 Heroin, Fentanyl and Meth Markets 2:34:31 Xanax Blackouts and Cartel Money 2:39:32 Robbing a Bank to Get Her Attention 2:44:48 Arrest, FBI Questioning & Bomb Threat Investigation 2:50:21 Delancey Street and Avoiding Decades in Prison 2:57:58 Recovery, Relapse and Building a New Life 3:00:24 Where to Find Matthew Handy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Bad Boy rapper G. Dep sits down to tell one of the most unbelievable stories in hip-hop history. Growing up in Harlem during the height of the crack era, G. Dep went from hustling in the streets and battling drug addiction to landing a record deal with Bad Boy Entertainment and becoming one of the label’s rising stars. But behind the success, the music, and the fame was a secret that continued to haunt him. In 1993, at just 18 years old, G. Dep was involved in a fatal shooting in Harlem. He was never arrested for it and eventually moved on with his life, signing with Bad Boy and building a successful rap career. But nearly two decades later, the guilt became too much. In December 2010, G. Dep walked into a New York City police precinct and confessed to the crime — 17 years after it happened. In this episode, G. Dep opens up about growing up in New York City, selling drugs, getting arrested repeatedly, discovering hip-hop, signing with Bad Boy, working around Diddy and some of the biggest names in rap, battling addiction, and the incredible decision that ultimately sent him to prison. He also explains what was going through his mind when he confessed, why he was willing to face the consequences, his trial and prison sentence, the road to clemency, and what it feels like to finally be free and making music again. This is the story of G. Dep — from the streets of Harlem to Bad Boy Records, prison, redemption, and a second chance at life. Go Support G. Deb! IG: https://www.instagram.com/gdepofficial/ YouTube: @gdepofficial TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gdepofficial Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trevell.g.dep.coleman Merch: https://lovethehustler.com/collections/g-dep This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Kalshi! Download the Kalshi app and use code MITCHELL to get $10 when you trade $10. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Cloaked! See if your SSN is for sale right now. My sponsor Cloaked will tell you for free in 2 seconds at https://cloaked.com/CONNECT. Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Intro: Why G. Dep Turned Himself In 6:24 Growing Up in Harlem During the Crack Era 12:03 Breakdancing, Early Rap & Becoming G. Dep 18:00 Selling Drugs & Early Drug Use 21:59 This Episode Is Sponsored By Kalshi 23:05 Drug Cases, Jail & Hearing About Tupac 34:20 Escaping an Undercover Arrest 42:19 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cloaked 43:50 The Song That Led G. Dep to Bad Boy 52:14 The 1993 Shooting 1:01:36 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 1:03:13 Police Question G. Dep the Next Day 1:07:22 Living With the Secret & Growing Guilt 1:14:22 G. Dep’s Relationship With Diddy 1:19:48 Writing Lyrics for Diddy 1:26:03 PCP, Fame & Coping With the Murder 1:33:16 Bad Boy Parties & Addiction Taking Over 1:40:29 Reconnecting With Diddy After Bad Boy 1:48:54 Deciding to Turn Himself In 1:56:24 Walking Into the Precinct to Confess 2:02:07 Arrested After a 17-Year-Old Confession 2:09:53 Taking the Murder Case to Trial 2:15:27 15-to-Life, Clemency & Coming Home 2:20:34 Life Today, New Music & What’s Next Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Baltimore has always had a reputation as one of America’s toughest cities — a place shaped by poverty, violence, addiction, and survival. In this episode, Johnny travels through Baltimore to see how the city has changed since The Wire, how the drug trade has evolved from heroin to fentanyl, and why homicides have recently dropped despite open-air dealing still being visible across the city. With help from Baltimore Carl of Baltimore Recovery Alliance, we visit Lexington Market, South Baltimore, East Baltimore, and O’Donnell Heights to hear directly from people who lived the streets, worked the corners, battled addiction, and are now trying to save lives through recovery and community intervention. This episode looks at Baltimore’s past, present, and future — from kingpins and corner crews to fentanyl, treatment centers, credible messengers, gentrification, and the people fighting to bring hope back to the city. Special thanks to Baltimore Carl and Baltimore Recovery Alliance. If you're in the Baltimore area and are seeking help to get clean from addiction check out https://baltimorerecoveryalliance.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Baltimore, The Wire, and the city’s violent history 02:07 Why Baltimore has such a high murder rate 05:55 Historic drop in homicides 07:08 Community intervention and peace teams 09:44 Heroin, fentanyl, and the changing drug economy 13:51 Lexington Market and open-air drug use 16:10 Baltimore’s addiction and treatment industry 20:22 South Baltimore drug corners 25:53 O’Donnell Heights and East Baltimore 29:41 Youth programs and signs of hope 30:12 Brandon Novak on addiction and recovery 34:33 Why Baltimore is worth saving Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Black Label has one of the wildest stories we’ve ever heard on The Connect. Growing up in extreme poverty in St. Petersburg, Florida, he was surrounded by crack, violence, and chaos from an early age. By 11 years old, he was already selling drugs. By his late teens, Black Label says he was helping run a multi-million-dollar drug operation, moving large quantities of crack and cocaine while leading a crew in one of the most dangerous environments imaginable. But the money came with consequences. Kidnappings, robberies, violence, federal investigations, and eventually a massive indictment brought the entire world crashing down. Black Label ultimately spent 15 years behind bars, including 28 months in solitary confinement. In this episode, Black Label takes us inside the crack era of 1990s St. Petersburg, explains how a white kid became accepted in an all-Black neighborhood and prison environment, breaks down the mentality that allowed him to survive, and reveals what finally happened when federal agents closed in. He also opens up about his brutal childhood, his relationship with his mother, the lessons he learned in prison, taking responsibility for his decisions, and how he rebuilt his life after coming home. Today, Black Label has transformed his name into a brand, building a professional chauffeur and security business while becoming a viral social media personality and host of the Black Label Lounge. His message now centers around turning “pain into purpose” and showing people that where you start doesn’t have to determine where you finish. This is the incredible story of survival, crime, prison, entrepreneurship, identity, and reinvention — told by the one and only Black Label. Go Support Black! IG: https://www.instagram.com/black_label_services YouTube: @blacklabellounge TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blacklabel1014 Merch: https://www.stickermule.com/blacklabel1014 This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT and get $150 if you win your first $5 lineup! GLD! New customers get 40% Off with code MITCHELL at https://GLD.com Superpower! Head to https://superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $50 off your membership. Get 150+ biomarkers tested every year across two tests, plus a personalized health plan and on-demand care team. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Black Label’s Incredible Story 8:18 Growing Up White in a Black Neighborhood 15:20 Survival Mentality & Pain Into Purpose 21:11 This Episode Is Sponsored By PrizePicks 22:40 The Crack Era in St. Petersburg 28:58 His First Fight & Earning Respect 36:02 Abuse at Home & Wanting Out 40:17 This Episode Is Sponsored By GLD 41:48 Education, Entrepreneurship & Black Label Services 50:33 Kidnapped for a $60,000 Ransom 56:01 Territory Wars & Street Violence 1:00:47 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 1:02:17 Turning the Crack Game Into a Business 1:09:58 Crack Houses, Cookers & Supplying the City 1:16:55 Family Conflict, Identity & Prison Politics 1:23:50 Building the Black Label Brand & Going Viral 1:31:06 Moving Money & Reinvesting Drug Profits 1:37:54 Coming Home After 15 Years & Starting Over 1:45:03 Guns, Ego & Losing the Original Purpose 1:51:52 The Federal Indictment & Refusing to Cooperate 1:59:09 Surviving & Hustling in Federal Prison 2:05:54 The Underground Prison Economy 2:13:05 His Mother, Forgiveness & Unresolved Pain 2:20:43 Pain Into Purpose & Building a New Life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Donald Trump once appeared unusually willing to confront the Jeffrey Epstein story. According to Julian Dorey, Trump reportedly cooperated with an attorney representing Epstein victims, publicly urged people to investigate Epstein and his powerful connections, and later campaigned alongside calls for greater transparency. So what changed? In this episode, Julian Dorey joins for a deep dive into Trump’s history with Epstein, the fight over the unreleased files, Elon Musk’s explosive claim that Trump appears in them, and reports suggesting Trump and Epstein were closer than casual acquaintances. They also examine why millions of pages have allegedly remained unreleased or heavily redacted, reports of senior administration officials discussing the Epstein fallout in the Situation Room, Thomas Massie publicly naming figures connected to the case, and Dorey’s belief that major Epstein developments have repeatedly landed during low-attention news cycles. The conversation eventually turns to Dorey’s most controversial theory about what Trump could be trying to protect—a theory he repeatedly emphasizes is speculation, not proven fact. If Trump was once willing to help expose Epstein, why does Dorey believe his behavior changed? This episode follows the timeline, the contradictions, the powerful names, and the unanswered questions surrounding one of the most controversial stories in American politics. Go Support Julian! YouTube: @JulianDorey Clips Page: @juliandoreyclips Podcast: @JulianDoreyDaily IG: https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey X: https://x.com/juliandorey Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Intro – What Is Trump Hiding in the Epstein Files? 5:30 Why Julian Dorey Became Obsessed With Epstein 11:45 Epstein’s Role as a Powerful “Fixer” 17:23 Epstein, Gaza, Evil & Christianity 23:05 Trump’s History With Jeffrey Epstein 30:04 Trump Accusations & the Melania Theory 35:06 Allegations About Melania’s Past 40:19 Was Trump Distancing Himself From Epstein? 45:24 Why Are 3 Million Pages Still Unreleased? 50:24 Pam Bondi, Todd Blanche & the Situation Room 56:41 The Game of Thrones Comparison to Trump 1:03:42 Epstein Stories & Suspicious News Cycles 1:10:24 Trump’s Collapse as a Master Marketer 1:17:20 The Biggest Names Connected to Epstein 1:24:53 Epstein, Intelligence Agencies & Mossad 1:30:00 The David Rockefeller Story 1:34:44 Blackmail, Politicians & the Epstein Network 1:39:00 Why Aren’t Epstein’s Victims Being Heard? 1:45:40 Could Congress Force the Files to Be Released? 1:50:28 Escaping the Republican vs. Democrat Divide 1:56:21 Julian Dorey’s Final Thoughts & Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jimmy “Easy” Saracco lived the kind of Mafia life most people only know from movies. In this episode, the former DeCavalcante associate opens up about coming up in New York’s underworld, making serious money through bookmaking and loansharking, carrying out violent orders, and operating around the New Jersey crime family often associated with the real-life inspiration behind The Sopranos. Jimmy also tells the story of his explosive feud with John Gotti Jr., including his claim that Gotti Jr. was involved in a plot to have him killed. After surviving a brutal attack that left him stabbed and in a coma, Jimmy says he wanted revenge—but Mafia politics made Gotti Jr. untouchable. Years later, the world Jimmy had lived by began collapsing from the inside. Bosses, captains, and associates started cooperating with the federal government, leaving Jimmy facing the possibility of spending the rest of his life in prison. Eventually, he made the decision he once thought was unthinkable: he cooperated too. Jimmy explains why he flipped, what it felt like walking out of his first proffer session, the murders and rackets he admitted involvement in, his time in witness protection, and why he says his life today is better than the one he left behind. This is the story of money, murder, loyalty, betrayal, the real-life Mafia world behind The Sopranos—and what happens when the code everyone swore to live by finally falls apart. Go Support Jimmy! Book: https://a.co/d/0iR1D8xx YouTube: @JIMMY_EASY_SARACCO This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Quince! Find your next fall favorites at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://quince.com/connect Shopify! The only thing standing between you and your own income is getting started. Free trial at https://shopify.com/mitchell Quo! Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://quo.com/theconnect Mood! Head to https://mood.com, browse their amazing selection of functional gummies, and find the perfect gummy for whatever you're dealing with. Use promo code CONNECT at checkout to save 20% on your first order. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Jimmy Easy: Murder, Loansharking & the DeCavalcante Family 7:03 Becoming an Earner & Entering the Mob Life 14:29 Social Clubs, Rikers Island & Early Prison Time 20:12 Vigilante Street Justice & a Brutal Mob Story 22:59 This Episode Is Sponsored By Quince 24:52 Building His Crew & the Holmdel Robbery 35:09 Bookmaking, Loan Sharking & Mob Collections 41:07 This Episode Is Sponsored By Shopify 42:18 Vinny Palermo, Mob Hits & Disappearances 49:29 The 1997 Arrest, FBI Setup & Cooperators 56:17 Mob Territory, Kickbacks & Making Money 1:00:12 This Episode Is Sponsored By Quo 1:01:22 John Gotti's Influence & Sopranos Connections 1:10:34 Extortion, Tow Trucks & Illegal Businesses 1:15:34 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mood 1:16:54 Jewelry Heists, Fences & Whitey Bulger 1:22:18 Chop Shops, Stolen Cars & Insurance Fraud 1:28:08 Courtroom Corruption & Buying Your Way Out 1:33:33 The Night John Gotti Jr.'s Crew Tried to Kill Him 1:39:32 Inside the DeCavalcante Family Structure 1:45:24 Medical Fraud, Hospitals & Massive Kickbacks 1:51:05 The World Trade Center Robbery & Ralphie Flips 1:58:45 Insurance Money, Wiretaps & the Coming Indictment 2:05:03 The Feds Close In & the Murder Charges 2:13:23 Facing Life in Prison & Deciding to Cooperate 2:20:00 Sentencing Deals, Cooperators & Witness Protection 2:27:35 Leaving WitSec & Life After the Mafia 2:30:00 Hit Man Tells All, Jimmy's YouTube & Closing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Could a U.S. military intervention in Mexico actually happen—and what would it look like if it did? Ed Calderon joins the show and we break down the growing tension between the United States and Mexico, the strategic importance of northern Mexico’s manufacturing base, and why a future conflict could extend far beyond the fight against cartels and fentanyl. The conversation explores the potential consequences of military intervention, including mass migration, border shutdowns, trade disruptions, economic shortages, and the possibility of cartel groups transforming into organized guerrilla forces using drones, IEDs, precision weapons, and other modern battlefield tactics. We also examine why Mexico could become an extremely difficult environment for a prolonged U.S. military campaign, how deeply interconnected Mexican and American communities are, and why recent operations against historically powerful cartel figures may signal a much larger geopolitical shift. Go Support Ed! Website: https://www.edsmanifesto.com/ Merch: https://sneakreaper-industries.com/ Podcast: @manifestoradionetwork3191 IG: https://www.instagram.com/manifestoradiopodcast/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Could the U.S. Go to War With Mexico? 7:46 Michoacán, Cartels & Self-Defense Groups 14:50 U.S. Pressure on Mexico’s Politicians 22:02 CIA Operations, the DEA & Iran-Contra 28:36 Mayo Zambada, Sinaloa & Political Corruption 36:12 Why a U.S.–Mexico Military Clash Could Happen 42:22 The Economic Motive for Invading Mexico 49:54 What Would a U.S. Intervention Actually Look Like? 55:55 Cartel Fighters, Snipers & Guerrilla Warfare 1:03:12 Could Mexico Turn Into a Civil War? 1:10:07 Morena, Foreign Influence & Mexico’s Sovereignty 1:15:30 The Huachicol Fuel-Smuggling Empire 1:21:52 How U.S. Fuel Gets Smuggled Into Mexico 1:28:58 Sinaloa’s Future, CJNG & Cross-Border Drug Tunnels Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At just 18 years old, Jacob Diaz went from growing up in extreme poverty and foster care to helping manage a massive cocaine trafficking operation stretching from the Texas border to Florida. In this episode, Jacob explains how he started as a driver and translator before eventually handling logistics, coordinating drivers, collecting money, managing stash houses, and helping oversee the U.S. side of an operation connected to the Beltrán Leyva organization. At its peak, the network was moving dozens of kilos a week, with Jacob describing hundreds of kilos moving through individual customers and millions of dollars changing hands. Jacob breaks down how the operation stayed under the radar, how cocaine moved across the country, what life was like around cartel figures in Mexico, and the mistake that eventually brought federal investigators to his door. After being convicted on a federal cocaine conspiracy charge and serving more than seven years in prison, Jacob completely changed direction and built a legitimate business helping people repair their credit and access funding. This is the story of how a teenager went from homelessness and foster care to the center of a multimillion-dollar cocaine operation—and how it all came crashing down. Go Support Jacob! Ig: https://www.instagram.com/mycreditbuilderpros/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/connect NordVPN! NordVPN! Upgrade your online protection with an all-in-one security app! Get an exclusive NordVPN deal + 4 months extra here ➼ https://nordvpn.com/theconnect. Itʼs risk free with NordVPNʼs 30-day money-back guarantee! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Intro: From Foster Care to Cartel Logistics 6:11 Growing Up in Extreme Poverty in Ocala 11:50 Foster Care, Family Separation & His Mom Disappearing 17:15 Learning to Let Go and Move Forward 20:03 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 21:48 Selling to Eat While Homeless 29:00 Selling Out of the Foster Home 34:32 Meeting the Man Who Became His Father Figure 41:54 Getting Involved In The Beltran-Leyva Organization 43:21 This Episode Is Sponsored By NordVPN 44:42 Becoming the U.S. Logistics Manager 47:17 Collecting Cash, Translating & Learning the Business 55:07 Border Routes, Checkpoints & Moving Product 1:00:57 The 70-Year-Old Cartel Mule 1:06:00 Moving 20 Kilos a Week Through Ocala 1:12:36 The Dream of Retiring in Spain 1:22:02 Cartel Security & Acapulco Nightlife 1:27:05 Living on a $30K-a-Month Party Budget 1:32:38 Why They Used One Distributor at a Time 1:38:02 How His Boss Got Back Across the Border 1:44:49 Flying Cash to Mexico 1:50:44 The 2011 Federal Investigation Begins 1:56:31 The Federal Case & Recorded Evidence 2:01:33 Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison 2:06:51 Building a Credit Business in Prison Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former San Francisco undercover narcotics officer Britt Elmore exposes how the Tenderloin became one of America’s most notorious open-air drug markets — and how fentanyl, street dealers, weak prosecution, addiction, homelessness, and organized trafficking reshaped the city. In this episode, Britt breaks down the San Francisco fentanyl crisis from the inside. After 25 years working narcotics, undercover buys, federal task force cases, wiretaps, gun deals, stolen car operations, cartel-linked investigations, and street-level drug markets, Britt explains how the fentanyl trade operates in the Bay Area and why San Francisco became a magnet for addiction, homelessness, and open-air drug dealing. He discusses the Tenderloin drug market, Honduran street dealers, Mexican suppliers, fentanyl economics, undercover police work, drug trafficking routes, confidential informants, cartel connections, stolen property rings, car break-ins, retail theft, rehab fraud, Proposition 47, and why many officers believe the system has stopped holding repeat offenders accountable. This conversation is a raw, unfiltered look at crime, addiction, policing, fentanyl, and the collapse of public order in one of America’s most iconic cities. Topics covered: -San Francisco fentanyl crisis -Tenderloin open-air drug market -SFPD undercover narcotics work -Fentanyl trafficking in California -Honduran drug dealers in San Francisco -Mexican cartel supply chains -Drug addiction and homelessness -Proposition 47 and criminal justice reform -Retail theft, bipping, and stolen property rings -Confidential informants and federal wiretaps -Undercover gun and drug buys -How fentanyl changed the drug trade Go Support Britt! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-elmore-5641a53a This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Mood! Head to https://mood.com, browse their amazing selection of functional gummies, and find the perfect gummy for whatever you're dealing with. Use promo code CONNECT at checkout to save 20% on your first order. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 San Francisco’s fentanyl crisis 01:33 Arrests, treatment, and the debate over addiction policy 03:04 Drugs inside jails, rehabs, and nonprofit systems 07:16 San Francisco’s tech wealth and drug culture 11:16 Honduran dealers and the Tenderloin street market 13:57 How Tenderloin dealers make money and avoid arrest 15:18 Heroin, fentanyl, and changing opioid markets 17:28 The economics of fentanyl 20:16 Britt Elmore’s undercover narcotics career 24:34 How Honduran dealers arrive, live, and operate in the Bay Area 28:35 Working wires from street dealers to Mexico 30:01 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mood 31:37 Meth, heroin, Sinaloa links, and border corruption 41:24 The undercover warehouse fencing operation 49:20 Reactive policing, low-level crime, and Proposition 47 55:01 “Bipping,” retail theft, and stolen goods networks 1:02:13 Drug transport routes through California, Oregon, and Washington 1:04:18 How federal wiretaps work 1:10:45 Major seizures and hidden stash houses 1:12:18 Prescription pills, addiction, and fentanyl recovery 1:23:03 Narcan, overdoses, and fentanyl contamination myths 1:29:39 Mexican trafficking groups, meth, and Hell’s Angels case 1:32:12 Informants, federal pressure, and who flips 1:51:42 Guns, switches, Dracos, and ATF cases 2:00:51 Cannabis eradication and drug money in the mail 2:18:28 Life undercover, adrenaline, and retirement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From a strict Mormon upbringing in Texas to the violent world of cartel-connected crime, Tyler’s story is one of the wildest we’ve heard. In this episode, Tyler explains how he went from being a high school kid making money transporting drugs to working around human-smuggling networks along the Texas–Mexico border. He describes witnessing extreme cartel violence at a young age, moving migrants through border towns, becoming involved in violent contract work in Mexico, and later building a large drug business back home. Tyler also opens up about the side of that lifestyle people rarely talk about—the paranoia, emotional numbness, PTSD, memory problems, prison, and the difficulty of returning to a normal life after years surrounded by violence. We discuss: • Growing up in a strict Mormon household • Getting recruited into drug transportation as a teenager • Witnessing cartel violence for the first time • How human-smuggling networks operate along the border • Coyotes, safe houses, spotters, burner phones, and cartel organization • His descent into increasingly violent criminal work • Building a drug business through Snapchat • His 2019 arrest and prison sentence • The lasting psychological effects of the lifestyle • Therapy, family, faith, and trying to rebuild his life This conversation contains descriptions of violence, drug trafficking, and other criminal activity. It is presented for documentary, educational, and entertainment purposes and is not intended to promote or encourage illegal behavior. This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: BetterHelp! See the reviews, see what stands out, and see if BetterHelp is right for you. Visit https://betterhelp.com/connect Mood! Head to https://mood.com, browse their amazing selection of functional gummies, and find the perfect gummy for whatever you're dealing with. Use promo code CONNECT at checkout to save 20% on your first order. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Mormon Kid to Cartel Hitman 01:27 Growing Up in a Strict Mormon Household 03:13 Rebelling Against Church Rules 04:16 First Adventure: Driving Heroin 06:40 Close Call: Witnessing a Chainsaw Murder 09:07 The Psychological Aftermath 12:32 Understanding the Cartel's Organization 15:10 Mental Health Struggles and Trauma 20:35 This Episode Is Sponsored By BetterHelp 21:55 Getting Back into Smuggling 23:23 Human Smuggling Operations and Safe Houses 27:18 Evolution into a Hitman 29:04 Cartel's Control and Police Corruption 31:52 The Job: Contract, Payment, and Preparation 36:27 The First Hit and Moral Numbing 40:33 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mood 42:33 Avoiding Addiction and the Double Life 45:08 The Worst Thing Seen: Four Days of Torture 52:00 The Drug Business and Burner Phones 01:10:11 Getting Busted and Going to Prison 01:17:00 Building the Snapchat Drug Empire 01:22:26 Why Keep Doing Hits? 01:24:07 The Last Job and Quitting 01:27:01 Arrest and Prison Sentence 01:30:09 Life After Prison and Redemption Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katarina Szulc returns to The Connect after reporting on the ground in Sinaloa, where the cartel war has pushed Culiacán deeper into violence and uncertainty. In this episode, she breaks down what she witnessed firsthand, why the Chapitos are under enormous pressure, and how CJNG could emerge as one of the biggest winners if the Chapitos eventually collapse or surrender. With CJNG already providing manpower and resources to its Sinaloa allies, could the organization ultimately move in and absorb their territory? We also get into the escalating war inside the Sinaloa Cartel, the future of the remaining Chapitos, alleged cartel ties to Mexican politicians, the growing influence of CJNG, what daily life now looks like in Culiacán, forced recruitment, and Katarina's disturbing investigation into human trafficking in Tijuana. This is an inside look at one of the most important power struggles happening in Mexico's criminal underworld—and what could come next. Go Support Katarina! YouTube: @katarinaszulc IG: https://www.instagram.com/katarinaszulc Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 The Cartel's Control Over Sinaloa 02:40 Senseless Murders and Public Fear 03:30 Governor Rocha's Indictment 08:30 Challenges of Reporting in Sinaloa 13:30 Inside the Daily Murders 20:00 The War for Cartel Control 23:30 CJNG Alliance and Mencho's Death 28:00 Cartel Convoys and Rural Danger 32:00 Humanizing Cartel Members 34:00 Victims and the New Generation 36:00 Cartel Economics and Recruitment 39:00 Chapitos' Surrender Talks 44:00 Political Leverage and US Influence 50:00 Mazatlan's Strategic Value 58:00 Human Trafficking Crisis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steven Dixon, a former Baltimore heroin kingpin, reveals how the city’s drug trade really worked during its most notorious era—from New York suppliers and mob connections to high-purity heroin, street corners generating staggering amounts of cash, and the operation that made him millions. He breaks down how heroin moved from New York to Baltimore, how dealers controlled territory across West Baltimore, why trusted connections mattered, and how the drug economy seen in The Wire compared to what was actually happening on the streets. But the money and power came with a devastating price. After building a massive operation and owning more than 100 properties, Steven eventually became addicted to heroin himself—losing the empire, the money, and nearly everything else. After years of addiction, he finally got clean, returned to school, earned a master’s degree, and dedicated his life to helping others recover through addiction treatment and behavioral health programs. This is the inside story of Baltimore’s heroin era—from millions in drug money to addiction, recovery, and redemption. Go Support Steven! Recovery Facility: https://absolutehbh.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Cash App! 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. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Cash App Green features, Savings, Direct deposit, Round ups, Overdraft coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. Superpower! Head to https://superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $20 off your membership. Get 100+ biomarkers tested every year, plus a personalized health plan and on-demand care team. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod NordVPN! Upgrade your online protection with an all-in-one security app! Get an exclusive NordVPN deal + 4 months extra here ➼ https://nordvpn.com/theconnect. Itʼs risk free with NordVPNʼs 30-day money-back guarantee! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Meet Steve Dixon 00:37 Baltimore's Heroin Kingpin 02:11 Reflections on the Drug Trade 03:32 Why Baltimore is a Heroin City 05:13 The Nigerian Connection 07:44 Building a Fortune 10:53 From Heroin to Fentanyl 12:07 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 13:27 Growing Up in Baltimore 16:04 A Life on the Streets 19:03 Acquiring Turf and Connections 21:27 Regrets and Community Impact 23:35 Keys to Success in the Game 25:31 The Mob and Nigerian Sources 27:00 Distribution Network 30:43 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 32:13 Police and Stash Houses 34:54 Violence and Stickup Boys 37:24 The Fall: Addiction 40:16 Investing in the Community 42:16 This Episode Is Sponsored By NordVPN 43:52 The Addiction to Money 45:40 A Day in the Life 50:38 Handling Massive Cash 52:37 The Turning Point 56:30 Dodging a Federal Case 58:00 Descent into Addiction 01:01:40 Losing Everything 01:04:10 Life as a Homeless Addict 01:07:26 The Road to Recovery 01:11:20 Helping Others Get Clean 01:14:42 The Rehab Industry 01:18:22 Redemption and Legacy 01:20:24 Is Baltimore Better Now? 01:23:57 Changing Attitudes in the Community 01:27:02 Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Florida gubernatorial candidate James Fishback joins The Connect to explain why he believes it’s time for a political revolution at the state level—and why Florida must stand up to Washington, Wall Street, foreign influence, and the growing surveillance state. In this wide-ranging conversation, Fishback lays out his plan to eliminate Flock license-plate cameras, oppose Palantir-style mass surveillance, protect First and Fourth Amendment rights, and repeal Florida laws he believes restrict criticism of foreign governments. He also breaks down his opposition to the H-1B visa system, arguing that major corporations are replacing qualified American workers with cheaper foreign labor. Fishback explains how he would penalize companies that refuse to hire qualified Florida residents, prevent private-equity firms and foreign investors from buying up single-family homes, and stop taxpayer-subsidized AI data centers from spreading across the state. The discussion also covers Florida public schools, student accountability, crime and “teen takeovers,” restoring rights to former nonviolent offenders, gun rights, undeclared foreign wars, the National Guard, AIPAC influence, state sovereignty, and his legal battle to remain on the ballot. Can Florida become a model for a new American liberty movement—or is the political machine too powerful to defeat? Go Support James! Website: https://www.votemyflorida.org/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction: The Fight for Freedom 00:42 Why I Support James Fishback 01:30 Fishback's America First Platform 02:44 A Call to Action for Floridians 03:01 The National Significance of Florida's Fight 04:41 A New Experiment in Liberty 06:50 The Easiest Problem: Banning Flock Cameras 08:20 The Fourth Amendment and Mass Surveillance 10:50 The Existential Battle for Privacy 12:10 Repealing Florida's Hate Speech Law 14:40 The Real Test of the First Amendment 15:56 Taking on the Opposition: Byron Donalds 17:00 The Education Crisis in Florida 20:00 Accountability in the Classroom 22:55 The H-1B Visa Scam 26:50 Protecting American Jobs 29:00 Resistance at the State Level 32:10 Banning Private Equity from Buying Homes 34:00 The Unfair Advantage of Private Equity 36:45 Foreign Buyers and the Housing Crisis 38:00 Capitalism vs. America 39:12 The Threat of Data Centers 42:40 The Data Center Invasion in Florida 44:30 Defending State Sovereignty 47:00 Consistency and Truth in Politics 48:00 Existential Issues vs. Cultural Differences 50:00 The Case Against Zero Crime 53:00 Addressing Teen Takeovers and Riots 57:40 The El Salvador Model: Tough on Crime 58:40 Restoring Rights for Former Felons 01:01:00 The Lawfare Battle and Victory 01:03:00 The Un-American Nature of Merging Militaries 01:04:40 The True America First Agenda 01:06:00 Byron Donalds: A Puppet of Foreign Interests 01:08:00 America Comes First 01:10:00 Christian Values and Governance 01:12:00 Teaching Kids What It Means to Be American 01:14:00 Mass Surveillance vs. Freedom 01:18:00 The Unanimous Opposition to Data Centers 01:20:00 The Momentum of the Fishback Campaign 01:22:00 Final Call to Action: Vote for James Fishback Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

His mom was a queenpin. His dad was the muscle. By 16, he was selling meth and building his own operation in small-town Texas. In this episode, Cory Simek, a former teenage meth dealer reveals what it was like growing up inside the drug game—and how his family’s criminal lifestyle shaped the path he followed. After starting with marijuana, he quickly moved into meth, made serious money before he was old enough to sign a lease, and became the target of a six-month police investigation. He breaks down how confidential informants gained his trust, the warning signs he ignored, the raid that brought everything crashing down, and the brutal reality of racial politics and survival inside the Texas prison system. But his story did not end behind bars. After serving years in prison and losing nearly everything, he transformed his mentality, entered the car business with no experience, became a top salesman, opened his own dealership, invested in real estate, and rebuilt his life through legitimate business. This is a raw story about growing up in a criminal family, selling meth at 16, undercover informants, police raids, addiction, betrayal, Texas prison, redemption, entrepreneurship, and second chances. Go Support Cory! IG: https://www.instagram.com/corywiththekeys Dealership: https://thekeykonnect.com/ YouTube: @Corywthekeys This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, and more visit https://hims.com/connect Quo! Money is on the line. Always say hello with QUO. Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://quo.com/theconnect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Raised by a Queenpin and an Enforcer 01:55 Cory With the Keys Joins the Show 02:19 His Parents’ Wild Origin Story 04:56 Childhood Changes After His Mom Relapses 06:59 Learning the Drug Game at 12 07:26 Smoking Weed for the First Time 08:47 Becoming a 13-Year-Old Dealer 10:08 The Lunch-Money Lesson That Changed Him 11:19 Trying to Live Up to Both Parents’ Reputations 11:52 Getting Kicked Out at 16 12:11 Moving From Weed to Meth 13:15 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 14:51 Selling Meth as a Teenager 16:27 Renting a Trap House Underage 17:14 Hustling While Still in High School 18:37 Getting Expelled Before Graduation 20:35 The Suspicious Customer Who Became an Informant 23:36 A Warning Before the Raid 24:30 Police Search the Trap House 26:13 Discovering the Informant’s Role 28:39 This Episode Is Sponsored By Quo 29:50 Another Informant Story After Prison 35:12 Swallowing an Eightball During a Police Stop 37:28 Realizing He Was Set Up 41:49 Back to the First Bust 44:08 Taking State Jail Instead of Probation 46:04 Surviving State Jail at 17 47:07 Learning Texas Prison Politics 50:32 Getting Out and Returning to the Streets 51:16 Weed Connects From the Valley 53:12 How Border Checkpoints Changed the Price 55:20 Shipping Bricks Through UPS 58:03 Moving Pounds and Making Teen Money 1:00:24 His Father’s Return to the Meth Game 1:02:35 His Dad Refuses to Snitch and Gets 25 Years 1:04:18 Falling in Love After State Jail 1:06:14 Learning He Might Become a Father 1:07:09 TDC Boot Camp and the Drug-Free Zone 1:10:15 Finding Out His Mom Died 1:11:52 Trying to Go Straight for His Son 1:13:14 The DNA Test That Broke Him 1:15:50 Heartbreak Sends Him Back to Hustling 1:16:41 SWAT Raids the Trap House 1:18:40 Running Into One of His Dad’s Snitches 1:21:27 Probation, Suspended License, and Disaster 1:22:23 Sentenced to Six Years in TDC 1:24:01 Learning He Must Serve Five Flat 1:28:10 Losing Everything in Prison 1:30:08 Rock Bottom Becomes the Turning Point 1:31:14 Deciding to Make Prison Time Serve Him 1:32:11 Fighting and Surviving Real Prison 1:35:22 Finding Better Ways to Do Time 1:36:52 Finally Making Parole 1:38:28 Getting Out and Starting Over 1:39:09 Discovering Car Sales 1:40:27 Talking His Way Into a Dealership Job 1:41:41 Becoming the Top Salesman 1:42:56 Battling Old Habits After Success 1:47:22 Opening His Own Dealership 1:48:19 Real Estate, Music, and Reinvention 1:49:56 Speaking in Prisons and Mentoring Kids 1:52:12 Johnny and Cory Discuss Their Turning Points 1:54:27 Why Accountability Keeps Him Straight 1:56:30 Finding Your Skill Set and Passion 1:57:09 Where to Find Cory With the Keys Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A former sheriff’s deputy says one split-second police shooting turned him from a respected officer into a convicted murderer—and sent him to Texas prison for 20 years. In this episode, Kent McGowen tells the full story of the night he served an arrest warrant on an armed woman, fired after she allegedly refused repeated commands to drop her weapon and later found himself charged with murder. Kent explains why he believes he was railroaded by corrupt officials, how his conviction survived multiple trials and appeals, and what happened when he went from enforcing the law to fighting for his life behind bars. He also exposes the brutal realities of the Texas prison system, including extreme heat, violence, suicide, untreated mental illness, guard misconduct and the dangers he faced as a former police officer living among inmates. Was this a justified police shooting—or a murder? Was Kent held accountable for his actions, or sacrificed to protect a corrupt system? Watch the full interview and decide for yourself. Go Support Kent! Book: https://a.co/d/08T9XO6m Make a Donation: https://www.givesendgo.com/G31TC Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Deadly Encounter: The Incident 00:24 Introducing Kent McGowen 01:11 Life as a Cop in Texas Prisons 01:50 Horrors of Texas Prison Conditions 03:19 Survival, Food, and Suicides 05:55 First and Only Prison Fight 09:00 Wild Personalities Behind Bars 17:01 Murders in Prison 21:22 Mail, Communication, and System Abuse 23:34 Corruption and Lack of Accountability 29:16 The Shooting Incident and Background 37:11 Executing the Warrant 41:53 The Shooting and Aftermath 49:35 The Indictment and Arrest 55:21 Political Games and Legal Strategy 01:01:01 Life on Bond During Legal Battles 01:09:06 Trial, Appeals, and Corrupt Lawyers 01:18:36 Second Trial and Legal Incompetence 01:26:43 Losing Trial, Sentencing, and Prison Transfer 01:31:46 Surviving as a Cop in Prison 01:47:40 Endless Parole Denials and Family Impact 01:58:19 Final Release and Post-Prison Life 02:06:56 Ongoing Legal Battles and Activism 02:09:01 Seeking Justice and Lessons Learned 02:12:08 Innocents Behind Bars and Conclusion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The real-life Marlo Stanfield sits down for his first podcast interview. In this exclusive episode, Marlo Bates — known across Baltimore as Marlo Stanfield — opens up about the story behind one of the most feared and iconic characters from HBO’s The Wire. From growing up in West Baltimore, building a powerful street organization with his twin brother Tamir, and surviving decades in prison, Marlo shares the truth behind the legend in his own words. He talks about Baltimore in the 1970s and 1980s, the heroin trade, 24-hour shops, loyalty, violence, police pressure, murder charges, wrongful convictions, learning to read in prison, and how his life changed after serving nearly 37 years. This is a rare, unfiltered conversation with the man behind the myth — covering The Wire, David Simon, Ed Burns, Baltimore street history, prison, redemption, and Marlo’s new documentary available on Amazon Prime and OG Network. Watch until the end for Marlo’s message to the next generation and his thoughts on legacy, loyalty, and life after prison. Go Support Marlo! Documentary: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0I1PSYZXS1A0412Z0LYVAMJHTT?ref_=atv_dp_share_cu_r IG: https://www.instagram.com/themarlodocumentary This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: GLD! New customers get 40% Off with code MITCHELL at https://GLD.com Mood! Head to https://mood.com, 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 Marlo's Introduction & The Real Story 03:29 Early Life in Baltimore 08:38 Jumping Into the Streets 13:00 Family Ties 15:04 This Episode Is Sponsored By GLD 16:39 The Business Begins 22:27 Expanding the Operation 31:31 Keys to Success & Street Codes 39:00 The Height of the Organization 42:36 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mood 44:09 Encounters with Law Enforcement 59:41 Trials, False Witnesses & Conviction 01:09:20 Life in Prison & Transformation 01:18:13 Parole, Legacy & Reflections 01:21:03 The Marlo Documentary & Moving Forward 01:25:55 Outro & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Clark Frederick’s life changed forever after years of grooming and sexual abuse by Dennis Pegg, a Boy Scout leader and sheriff’s lieutenant trusted by his family and community. Decades later, after struggling with addiction, gambling, broken relationships, PTSD, and silence, Clark encountered his abuser with another young boy. The sight triggered a devastating spiral that ended with Clark confronting and killing the man who abused him. In this episode, Clark explains how he avoided a life sentence, why other alleged victims began coming forward, what happened during his three years awaiting trial, and how he ultimately received a five-year sentence for manslaughter. He also shares how prison therapy, meditation, faith, sobriety, and speaking openly about his trauma helped him rebuild his life. Today, Clark is an advocate for survivors, the author of Scarred, and the host of the Free Like Me podcast. This conversation includes discussions of childhood sexual abuse, addiction, violence, suicide, and trauma. Viewer discretion is advised. Clark’s message is clear: revenge did not heal him. Survivors do not have to sacrifice the rest of their lives because of what was done to them. Breaking the silence, seeking support, and doing the work to heal can create a different future. Check out Clark’s book and podcast on his website: https://www.freelike-me.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction & The Boy Scouts Scandal 01:45 Clark Frederick's Early Life 06:00 Grooming & Abuse Begins 12:10 Community Deception 19:00 Escalation to Abuse & Secret Files 25:00 Coping, Shame & Silence 33:00 Long-Term Impact & Struggles with Addiction 45:50 Decades of Trauma & Encounters with Abuser 59:00 Seeing Abuser with New Victim & Breaking Point 01:03:00 The Confrontation and Aftermath 01:17:00 Jail, Trial & Public Reaction 01:31:00 Healing, Advocacy & Changing the Law 01:39:00 Redemption, Family Loss & Life After Prison 01:44:00 Breaking the Silence & Moving Forward 01:47:00 Closing Reflections & Legacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anthony Sanchez shares his raw journey from childhood trauma and Houston street life to serving more than 10 years in the Texas prison system—and ultimately rebuilding his life after release. In this powerful interview, Anthony explains how poverty, abuse, addiction, gang culture, drug dealing, violence, and the prison environment shaped his early decisions. He opens up about losing his mother to a cocaine overdose, carrying a gun as a teenager, selling drugs, facing aggravated robbery charges, and receiving a 16-year prison sentence at only 17 years old. Anthony also gives an inside look at Texas prison politics, racial segregation, Tango Blast, corrupt correctional officers, contraband, violence, and the survival mentality required behind bars. After his release in 2022, he transformed his life through barbering, entrepreneurship, public speaking, social media, and community outreach. This episode is a story about crime, prison, accountability, redemption, rehabilitation, and the possibility of changing your life after incarceration. Go Support Anthony! IG: https://www.instagram.com/illuminating777solutions/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Betterhelp! Don’t let stigma stand in the way of support. Start therapy with BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://betterhelp.com/connect Mood! Head to https://mood.com, 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 Introduction: The Wise Child & TDCJ Gangs 01:36 Street Life, Gangs & Human Psychology 05:59 Growing Up in Houston: Family & Trauma 10:09 Community, Gangs, and Early Violence 16:38 Petty Crimes & Getting the First Gun 20:26 Teen Hustle: Drug Dealing & Street Lessons 25:49 This Episode Is Sponsored By BetterHelp 26:51 Isolation, Family, and the Drive to Hustle 32:32 Getting Caught: Robberies and Arrest 41:40 Trial, Sentencing & Prison Reality 51:20 Prison Survival: Racial Dynamics & Tango Blast 01:01:48 Earning Respect and Violence 01:06:28 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mood 01:08:10 Structure Within the Gang 01:18:16 Prison Riots, Rules & Protecting Your Own 01:33:15 Conscience, G5 Isolation, and Self-Reflection 01:44:00 Corruption & Abuse in Texas Prisons 01:55:55 More Corruption, Inmates & Officer Crimes 02:07:32 Final Years: Violence, Survival & Coming Home 02:20:00 Reintegration, Community Work, and Success 02:27:18 Staying Free, Building a Platform, and Giving Back 02:33:34 Closing Thoughts: Change Is Possible Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Inside the growing U.S.–Israeli military partnership, AI surveillance technology, data centers, cybersecurity firms, and political lobbying are becoming increasingly connected. In this episode, investigative journalist and YouTube creator Tommy G discusses the proposed expansion of U.S.–Israel defense integration, the role of artificial intelligence and cyber warfare, Israeli settlements in the West Bank, surveillance companies such as Palantir and Flock Safety, and concerns about privacy, censorship, and government overreach. Tommy also explains why he expanded his reporting beyond crime and street documentaries to cover Gaza, Palestine, Israel, foreign influence in American politics, AIPAC campaign spending, AI-generated political propaganda, license-plate tracking, and the rapid growth of the surveillance state. Topics discussed include: • U.S.–Israel military and technology integration • AI surveillance and cyber warfare • Palantir, Flock Safety, and data privacy • Israeli cybersecurity companies and U.S. data centers • AIPAC lobbying and campaign spending • Gaza, Palestine, and West Bank settlements • Government surveillance and constitutional rights • Artificial intelligence in modern warfare • Free speech, censorship, and political influence • Whether public pressure can still change government policy This conversation contains strong opinions, allegations, and disputed claims from the participants. Viewers are encouraged to research the legislation, statistics, companies, and historical events discussed and reach their own conclusions. Go Support Tommy! YouTube: @TommyGMcGee Podcast: @thetommygshow IG: https://www.instagram.com/tommygmcgee/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Opening: Anti-Israel Sentiment & US-Israel Alliance 03:30 Concerns Over Merging US and Israeli Militaries 05:30 Spying, Surveillance Tech, and US Risks 08:00 Tommy G's Background: Hustle, Work Ethic, and YouTube 10:30 Why Talk About Politics and Current Events? 13:20 Facing Backlash and Threats for Speaking Out 15:30 Confronting Propaganda and Irreconcilable Bubbles 18:00 Defining Truth Amid the US-Israel Debate 21:30 Land Theft and Settlements in the West Bank 27:00 Historical Parallels: Land Theft and Modern Day Policies 30:00 Government Policies and Systemic Oppression 32:45 Why Americans Should Care About Palestine 35:00 Testing Surveillance State in Palestine & Its Spread 39:00 US Politics, Data Centers, & Israeli Tech Influence 43:30 Flock Cameras and Surveillance Concerns in the US 47:30 Government Overreach, Privacy, and Rights Erosion 51:00 Slippery Slope: Surveillance and Citizen Rights 54:00 Big Government, Corruption, and Propaganda 57:00 Hope, Pressure, and The Power of Social Change 59:00 Closing Remarks & Tommy G's Impact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former drug trafficker Justin Campos reveals how he built a multi-million-dollar marijuana operation by shipping large quantities of weed from California to Texas through USPS, UPS, and FedEx. In this episode, Justin explains how he entered the marijuana business, found suppliers connected to California’s Emerald Triangle, operated a medical weed delivery service in Los Angeles, and moved thousands of pounds across state lines. He also breaks down how his custom jewelry business connected him with rappers and music-industry figures, including 50 Cent, Young Buck, G-Unit, Rick Ross, Ty Dolla $ign, and Tech N9ne. Justin describes accepting gold, diamonds, Rolexes, and custom jewelry as payment while trying to turn illegal drug money into legitimate income. The operation eventually attracted law-enforcement attention after suspicious bank deposits, intercepted cash shipments, surveillance, and text messages connected Justin to his Texas distributors. Authorities seized hundreds of thousands of dollars, and Justin ultimately received a seven-year prison sentence for money laundering. Go Support Justin! YouTube: @WeWatchThis TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@campothagod This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/connect Ultra Pouches! Don’t sleep on @UltraPouches New customers get 15% Off with code CONNECT at https://takeultra.com #UltraPouches #ad Cloaked! See if your SSN is for sale right now. My sponsor Cloaked will tell you for free in 2 seconds at https://cloaked.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Mailing Pounds, Jewelry for Rappers 03:29 Black Market vs. Legal Weed Era 12:11 Starting a Dispensary in LA 19:52 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 21:34 Wholesale, Suppliers, and Hustling Connections 30:34 Mailing Weed: Tricks, Risks & Methods 40:06 This Episode Is Sponsored By Ultra Pouches 41:37 Cash, Jewelry Payments and Laundering 47:02 Building the Jewelry Business, Rap Industry Links 56:39 Custom Chains for Rappers—Ty Dolla $ign, Rick Ross, G-Unit 01:03:15 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cloaked 01:05:13 Music Industry, Payola, and Street Ties 01:15:09 Transition: Leaving Texas for LA Weed Industry 01:25:51 New Life in LA: Oregon Connections & Retail Delivery 01:34:10 Mailing Weed Refined: Security, Routes, and Bank Drops 01:44:31 Money Laundering and Mistakes That Led to Downfall 01:55:13 How the Case Broke: Banks, Surveillance, & Investigation 02:03:00 Arrest, Indictment, and the Reality of Prison Time 02:16:00 Charges, Sentencing, & Legal Battles 02:23:36 Life After Prison & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aryan Brotherhood leader, Michael Thompson, reveals what life was really like inside California’s most violent prisons — from Old Folsom and San Quentin to the rise of The Brand, prison gang politics, violence, survival, and ultimately walking away. In this explosive interview, he breaks down how the Aryan Brotherhood gained power behind the walls, how prison gangs controlled money, drugs, alcohol, protection, and violence, and why the California prison system of the 1970s was unlike anything seen today. He also opens up about growing up on a Native reservation, being recruited inside prison, surviving brutal conflicts, getting shot multiple times, building influence within the AB, and the moment he decided to leave that life behind. This is a rare inside look at the Aryan Brotherhood, Old Folsom Prison, prison gang history, redemption, and the reality of surviving decades behind bars. Go Support Michael! YouTube: @michaelskythompson Book: https://a.co/d/0cfbYgLn This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Cash App! 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. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Cash App Green features, Savings, Direct deposit, Round ups, Overdraft coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit https://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. Superpower! Head to https://superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod #AryanBrotherhood #PrisonStories #FolsomPrison #PrisonGangs #TrueCrime #TheBrand #CaliforniaPrisons #SanQuentin #PrisonInterview #TrueCrimePodcast Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Opening: Gangs and Violence in Prison 01:17 Michael Thompson's Background & Aryan Brotherhood 02:53 Prison System Changes Over Time 04:40 California's Prison Expansion & Crime Trends 06:08 Race, Gang Control, and Prison Culture 09:13 Growing Up on a Native American Reservation 14:09 Survival, Community, and Formative Years 21:50 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 23:15 Transition: Institutional Life & Youth Ranch 27:03 Joining the Aryan Brotherhood: Gangs in 70s Prisons 33:59 Violence, Rackets, and Organized Crime Inside 41:44 Weapons and Survival in Prison 44:04 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 45:27 Folsom's Culture of Violence 53:10 Structure and Economics of the Aryan Brotherhood 01:05:04 Building the Brand: Racketeering & Operations 01:13:47 Evolution of White Supremacy and Expansion 01:23:09 Moving to San Quentin & Gang Alliances 01:36:18 Forming the Commission: Running the Organization 01:46:13 Stepping Away: Moral Dilemmas and Defection 01:55:15 Testimony, Cooperation, and Attempts on His Life 02:09:41 Life After the Brand and Modern Incarcerations 02:18:28 Release, Challenges, and Reflections 02:27:32 Life After Prison & Giving Back 02:32:31 Memoir, Advocacy, and Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

K2 has changed the entire prison game. In this fifth and final chapter of Tim Greishiemer's series, he breaks down what he saw inside Texas prisons during a new era of synthetic drugs, violence, contraband, and prison politics. He explains how K2 became one of the biggest hustles behind bars, how inmates made money through tattoos and underground businesses, and how the culture inside Texas prisons has changed over the years. But Tim’s story does not end in prison. After years of living inside that world — learning to tattoo, navigating prison politics, surviving the system, and planning to come home still caught up in the streets — he says everything changed the day he walked out. Instead of going back to the same life, he made the decision that he was done. This conversation is an unfiltered look at modern Texas prison life, the rise of K2, the underground prison economy, and one man’s attempt to leave that life behind for good. Topics covered: How K2 took over Texas prisons The new era of synthetic drugs behind bars Prison tattoo hustles and underground money Contraband, extortion, and corrupt movement Texas prison politics and violence How prison culture has changed Tim’s redemption arc after getting out Why he decided he was never going back This is a raw prison story about chaos, consequences, survival, and redemption. Go Support Tim! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bykriminalkustoms/ #TexasPrison #K2 #PrisonStories #ExInmateInterview #PrisonLife #TrueCrime #PrisonPodcast #SyntheticDrugs #TexasPrisons #PrisonHustle #Contraband #PrisonPolitics Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro & Prison Smuggling Tactics 00:36 Tim's Journey: Gang Life to Prison 02:18 Changes in Texas Prisons Over the Years 03:45 Addiction, Hustles, and Prison Economy 08:00 Tattoo Hustle and Prison DIY 13:00 Guards, Corruption, and Prison Custody 17:20 Racial Politics and Prison Gangs 22:00 White Boy Influence & Dope Trade 27:00 The Bar Screen: Flushing and Drug Retrieval 33:00 Extortion, Power, and Control 38:00 K2 Money, Guard Corruption, and Prison Hustles 43:00 Escalating Tensions and Hustle Mismanagement 48:00 Child Support, Prison Finances & Corrupt System 55:00 Tim Responds to Critics & Outlaw Mentality 01:00:00 Final Thoughts: Systemic Injustice & Closing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Mexican Mafia member René “Boxer” Enriquez tells the real story of La Eme — one of the most feared and powerful prison gangs in American history. In this interview, René breaks down how the Mexican Mafia gained control inside California prisons, how La Eme influenced street gangs across Los Angeles, how prison politics really work, and what it means to become a “made” member of the organization. He also opens up about his childhood, gang life, violence, addiction, betrayal, debriefing, and the long road toward redemption after leaving the life behind. This is a rare inside look at the Mexican Mafia from someone who lived it at the highest level — and survived to tell the truth. Watch until the end to hear René explain why La Eme still holds power today, how prison gangs communicate, and what he wants young people to understand before choosing that path. Topics covered: Mexican Mafia history, La Eme, California prison gangs, Los Angeles street gangs, prison politics, organized crime, gang violence, prison life, René Enriquez, true crime interview, cartel connections, debriefing, redemption, and life after the Mexican Mafia. Go Support René! YouTube: @ReneEnriquezUncensored IG: https://www.instagram.com/reneenriquezuncensored/ Book: https://www.streetgangs.com/store/books/blackhand/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: HelloFresh! Go to https://hellofresh.com/connect10fm now to Get 10 Free Meals + a Free breakfast for Life! One per box with active subscription. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Shopify! You don’t need anyone’s approval to make a living. Build your own business with a free trial at https://shopify.com/mitchell Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction & Mexican Mafia Origins 05:50 Boxer's Early Life & Family Background 09:35 Youth, Gangs, and First Encounters 12:19 Gang Recruitment & Early Violence 16:00 Rise of the Mexican Mafia on the Streets 22:38 This Episode Is Sponsored By HelloFresh 24:25 LA Drive-By Moratorium & Organization's Power 28:00 The Mexican Mafia's Structure & Street Gangs 34:00 Brand, Violence & Expansion 40:20 Infighting & Mafia Politics 49:23 This Episode Is Sponsored By Shopify 50:43 Surviving and Killing in Prison 54:00 Boxer's Initiation into the Mexican Mafia 01:00:00 Mafia Warfare: Prisons in the '80s & '90s 01:08:00 Prison Hit Jobs and The Politics of Violence 01:14:00 Drug Trafficking & Control in Prison 01:19:00 Management, Money & The Mafia Franchise 01:26:00 Cartel Connections & Mexican Mafia Operations 01:33:00 Boxer's Path to Full Member & First Murders 01:41:00 LA County Jail Politics and Mafia Influence 01:50:00 Running Rackets and Ordered Hits in Jail 01:56:00 Evolution to Organized Crime Syndicate 02:03:00 Boxer's Arrest, Life Sentence, and Prison Mentality 02:08:00 Reflection, Therapy & Personal Change 02:14:00 Cooperating, Debriefing, and Testifying 02:22:00 Parole Fights, Political Challenges & Release 02:34:00 Aftermath, Legacy & Life on the Outside 02:39:00 Final Reflections & Channel Promotion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After seven years in a Texas prison, Tim came home with prison politics, gang ties, and connections that would pull him straight into the meth game. In episode 4 of Tim's series, he breaks down how life behind bars shaped his mindset, how he adjusted after release, and how prison relationships eventually led to cartel-level meth connections. Tim talks about working on death row, surviving the Texas prison system, coming home on parole, and entering a dangerous world of meth trafficking, cartel plugs, stash houses, and small-town drug markets. He also explains how rural Texas became flooded with ice, why meth spread so quickly through small towns, and how one out-of-state connection changed everything. This is a raw look at prison life, cartel influence, the meth pipeline, and the consequences of chasing fast money after prison. Watch until the end for Tim’s reflection on how quickly the money, pressure, and paranoia took over. Topics covered: -Meth trafficking in Texas -Cartel meth connections -Small-town drug epidemics -Life after prison -Parole and halfway houses -Cartel stash houses -The prison-to-streets pipeline Go Support Tim! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bykriminalkustoms/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Getting Out and Entering the Game 02:00 Life in Texas Prison and Making Connections 05:00 Transitioning from Prison to the Streets 12:00 Hustling After Release and Adjusting to Freedom 18:00 Building Cartel Connections 22:00 Securing the Out-of-State Plug 26:00 Money Laundering and Staying Under the Radar 32:00 Distribution, Middlemen, and Small Town Impact 39:00 Meth in Small Town Texas and Sociological Factors 43:00 The Evolution of Meth and Urban-Rural Spread 47:00 Stash Houses, Real Estate & White Collar Crime 58:00 Switching from Meth to Marijuana in Ohio 01:05:00 Expanding the Operation and Dealing with Family 01:13:00 Money, Health Issues, and Life on the Run 01:23:00 Reflections on the Game, Corruption, and Legacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former California game warden John Nores reveals the hidden war being fought deep inside America’s forests — where cartel-run marijuana farms have taken over remote public lands, poisoned wildlife, stolen water, and turned California’s mountains into dangerous territory. In this episode, John breaks down how Mexican cartel growers set up massive hidden weed farms, how they camouflage camps and irrigation systems, why game wardens became involved in marijuana raids, and what happened when his team came face-to-face with armed growers in the woods. We also discuss the environmental destruction caused by illegal grows, toxic pesticides, cartel tactics, California legalization, the black market, and why this problem is still far from over. John Nores is a former California Department of Fish and Wildlife game warden and author of Hidden War, where he documents his years tracking cartel activity in America’s wildlands. Topics include: Cartel weed farms, California forests, game wardens, illegal marijuana grows, Sinaloa cartel, toxic pesticides, water theft, wildlife destruction, armed growers, and the hidden war on public lands. Go Support John! Book: https://www.johnnores.com/hidden-war.html Website: https://www.johnnores.com/ 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 Prescription required. See website for details and important safety information. Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra®. Viagra® is a registered trademark of Viatris Specialty LLC. Hims is not affiliated with or endorsed by Viatris. Lucy! Save 20% on your first online Lucy order at https://lucy.co/connect with promo code CONNECT! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: California's Weed War 01:00 Meet John Norris: Game Warden Turned Cartel Hunter 04:00 Why Game Wardens Battle Cartels 09:00 Inside Cartel Grow Tactics 17:00 Water Theft & Ranch Infiltration 24:00 Deadly Encounters: Gunfights in the Hills 26:00 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 27:58 Cartel Structure & Operations Unveiled 41:00 Cat-and-Mouse: Grow Raids vs Apprehensions 46:16 This Episode Is Sponsored By Lucy 47:52 Cartel Incentives: Who's Growing & Why 55:00 Hidden Health Dangers: Pesticides & Poisons 01:03:00 Environmental Fallout: Wildlife & Water 01:08:00 Legalization Backfires: Black Market Thrives 01:16:00 Chinese Cartels & the Evolving Threat 01:25:00 Why the Legal Market Can't Compete 01:36:00 From Gunfights to Game Wardens: War Stories 01:43:00 Cartels, China, and the Fentanyl Pipeline 01:53:00 Northern Border, Drugs, and the Hidden War 02:03:00 Solutions: Law, Education, & Real Change 02:10:00 Impact of Legalization Laws in Other States 02:12:00 Organic Growers vs Cartels: The Forgotten Warriors 02:16:00 Wrap Up: The Fight for America's Wildlands & Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Part 3 of Tim’s interview, he exposes the brutal reality of life inside the Texas prison system, including Texas death row, extreme heat with no air conditioning, alleged corruption, contraband cell phones, prison violence, and the inhumane conditions inmates face behind bars. Tim shares firsthand stories from his time in Texas prisons, including what it was like working on death row, seeing inmates receive execution dates, witnessing the emotional impact of executions, and hearing about wrongful convictions. He also breaks down how contraband gets into prison, how inmates survive scorching heat, how prison hustles work, and why he believes the Texas Department of Criminal Justice has gotten worse over time. This raw prison interview covers the hidden world of Texas prisons, death row inmates, prison politics, commissary hustles, staff corruption, segregation, gang dynamics, and the struggle to rebuild life after incarceration. If you’re interested in true crime interviews, prison stories, death row documentaries, criminal justice reform, wrongful convictions, and real-life accounts from former inmates, subscribe for more long-form conversations. Topics Covered: -Texas prison system -Texas death row -Life on death row -No air conditioning in Texas prisons -Prison heat deaths -Contraband cell phones in prison -Prison corruption -Wrongful convictions -Executions in Texas -Prison violence and survival -Segregation and prison politics -Life after prison Go Support Tim! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bykriminalkustoms/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Life on Death Row: Getting the Job 02:00 Prison Heat & Air Conditioning Issues 05:00 Extreme Heat and Health Dangers 09:00 Corruption & Water Shortages in Texas Prisons 12:00 Prison Profits: Commissary & Phone Costs 16:00 Contraband: Smuggling Phones & Drugs 21:00 Death Row: Execution of an Innocent Man 27:00 Death Row Life & Prison Economics 32:00 The Politics & Hustles of Death Row Jobs 38:00 Passing Socks, Stamps, and Prison Currency 44:00 Handling Food, Muslim Rules, and Corruption 48:00 Violence, Stabbings, & Prison Justice 54:00 Who Ends Up on Death Row vs. Life 01:00:00 Death Row Inmates: Psychopathy or Normalcy? 01:07:00 Segregation Units & Survival Stories 01:14:00 Harassment, Retaliation, and Violence 01:17:00 How Texas Prisons Have Gotten Worse 01:22:00 Final Thoughts: Broken Prison System & Reform Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anthony Santana survived fentanyl addiction, homelessness, drug dealing, and nearly 100 overdoses — but what he saw inside the rehab industry shocked him almost as much as the streets. In this episode of The Connect, Anthony exposes the dark world of rehab corruption, body brokering, and treatment centers allegedly profiting from fentanyl addicts through insurance payouts. He breaks down how addicts are recruited, paid, recycled through detox programs, and sometimes pushed back into relapse so the money keeps flowing. Anthony also opens up about selling fentanyl and Xanax in California, living homeless in Los Angeles, dealing drugs in MacArthur Park, surviving overdoses, and eventually finding real recovery after years of addiction. This is a raw look at the fentanyl crisis, the California rehab scam, and the hidden business behind addiction treatment. Go Support Anthony! Rehab and Recovery: https://www.instagram.com/losangelesoutreach/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/4nthonys4nt4na/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Betterhelp! You don’t have to say yes to everything this summer. Find support in therapy. Sign up and get 10% off at https://betterhelp.com/connect Cash App! Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me #CashAppPod ash 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. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Cash App Green features, Savings, Direct deposit, Round ups, Overdraft coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Opening & Anthony's Background 03:35 Addiction, Overdose, and Hope 06:20 Growing Up, Family & Early Drug Use 11:00 Dealing, Trauma & Progression to Fentanyl 17:00 Scaling Up Drug Operations 20:33 This Episode Is Sponsored By Betterhelp 221:58 Dangers, Setups & Violence 34:27 Homelessness, Drug Dealing in LA, and the Senior Home 40:22 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 41:45 Body Brokering & Rehab Industry Corruption 46:02 MacArthur Park: LA’s Open Air Drug Market 51:41 Drug Availability, Pricing & Street Hustle 53:00 Inside the Fentanyl and Xanax Supply Chains 57:00 Adapting, Staying Out of Jail, and the Online Drug Trade 01:02:56 Bay Area Drug Scene & Violence 01:09:47 Struggles with Treatment & Homelessness 01:16:00 Human Trafficking, Customers, and the Underbelly of LA 01:20:35 Getting Sober & Redemption 01:26:00 Reflections, Family & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Mongols MC leader Mooch sits down to reveal the inside story of motorcycle club life, the Mongols’ war with the Hells Angels, ATF informants, RICO cases, and what really happened behind the scenes of major biker investigations. In this episode, Mooch breaks down how federal informants allegedly infiltrated motorcycle clubs, how Operation Black Rain impacted the Mongols MC, and why he believes many members were pressured through RICO charges and plea deals. He also talks about club politics, being labeled “out bad,” the fight over the Mongols patch, the rise of biker club violence, and the reality of life after leaving the patch. Mooch gives a rare firsthand look at the structure of the Mongols Motorcycle Club, the rules members live by, the conflict with the Hells Angels, and how biker culture has changed through social media, pop culture, and federal pressure. This is a deep dive into outlaw motorcycle clubs, brotherhood, betrayal, informants, law enforcement, and redemption after leaving the life. Topics include:Mongols MC, Hells Angels, ATF informants, RICO cases, Operation Black Rain, biker wars, motorcycle club politics, federal investigations, outlaw motorcycle clubs, life after the patch, and Mooch’s personal journey. Go Support Mooch! Book: https://a.co/d/0bK2pZwm Podcast: @automotoent IG: https://www.instagram.com/og__mooch Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction & The Mongols' Reputation 01:10 Meet Mooch: Inside Mongols Culture 03:30 Leaving the Club & 'Out Bad' Explained 05:54 Speaking Publicly & Club Structure 08:00 International Chapters & Racial Politics 13:34 Membership Growth & Changing Biker Image 20:45 Dues, Club Size, and Prospecting 25:25 Mongols Bylaws & Internal Discipline 32:30 Drug Use, Criminality & Club Culture 39:05 Federal Prosecution: Myths, Informants, & Racketeering 48:54 Undercover Stings & Entrapment Tactics 58:18 Mooch's Arrests & Justice System Challenges 01:12:00 Life After Mongols & Positive Change 01:19:44 What Does '1%' Mean Today? 01:26:30 Leadership, Politics & Club Conflicts 01:34:00 Club Growth, Violence & The Changing Landscape 01:40:00 Law Enforcement, Propaganda & Final Thoughts 01:41:30 Mooch's Book, Podcast & Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In episode 2 of the Tim G miniseries, Tim dives into a raw and intense firsthand account of life inside one of Texas’ most violent prison units. He breaks down what it was like arriving young, white, and unprotected in a heavily segregated environment where respect had to be earned fast. He talks about the politics between prison gangs, corrupt officers, contraband hustles, riots, extortion, violence, and the daily survival mindset required to make it through. From guards being flipped for drops, to inmates running serious money operations behind the walls, this conversation exposes how chaotic and dangerous Texas prison life could really get. Tim also reflects on how older inmates taught him discipline, street wisdom, and the importance of carrying himself with respect — lessons that shaped the way he moved both inside and after prison. A brutal, unfiltered look at prison politics, survival, and the hidden economy behind the walls. Topics covered: Texas prison violence, prison gangs, Bloods and Crips, Mexican Mafia, Texas Syndicate, contraband, corrupt guards, prison riots, extortion, survival, redemption, and life after incarceration. Go Support Tim! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bykriminalkustoms/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro & Life in the Most Violent Prisons 01:14 Terrell Unit: The Worst Prison in Texas 02:57 Death Row, Security Changes & Contraband 07:06 Prison Hustles & Black Market Economy 12:17 Adapting, Survival & Earning Respect 18:29 Race, Gangs & Violence Inside 21:15 This Episode Is Sponsored By Shopify 23:13 Respect, Snitching, and Survival Rules 32:38 Corrupt Guards, Prison Parties, and Lessons from Older Inmates 42:47 Riot Stories & Texas Prison Politics 44:30 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 46:13 Racial Conflict and Survival Fights 54:42 Initiations, Tests & Early Survival 01:10:24 Prison Hierarchy, Hits & Corrupt Guards 01:20:00 Violence on the Inside: Stabbings & Fights 01:34:08 Race, Respect, and Code of Silence 01:46:03 Bloods, Politics, and Earning Your Place 02:00:04 Endurance, Anxiety & Becoming Hardened 02:14:43 Self-Reflection & Emotional Toll 02:16:49 Wrap-Up & Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The war inside the Sinaloa Cartel may be reaching a turning point. In this episode, we break down the alleged collapse of the Chapitos faction, the fallout from El Mayo Zambada’s shocking kidnapping and arrest, and the reported U.S. indictment targeting powerful political figures in Sinaloa. As Chapo Guzmán’s sons lose allies, money, manpower, and political protection, the balance of power may be shifting toward Los Mayitos. But this story goes far beyond cartel infighting. We also explore the bigger picture: U.S. pressure on Mexican politicians, growing American intelligence activity inside Mexico, surveillance technology on the border, alleged CIA involvement, and whether this marks a new phase in the war against Mexican cartels. Is this the end of the Guzmán dynasty? Are the Chapitos negotiating their surrender? And is Mexico becoming the next major battlefield for U.S. foreign policy? Topics covered: -The Chapitos vs. Los Mayitos war -El Mayo Zambada’s kidnapping and arrest -The alleged indictment of Sinaloa politicians -Rubén Rocha Moya and cartel corruption claims -The fall of Chapo Guzmán’s sons -CJNG’s role in the conflict -U.S. intelligence activity in Mexico -CIA, cartels, surveillance, and Mexican sovereignty -What comes next for the Sinaloa Cartel If you enjoyed the video, drop a comment, hit the like button, and subscribe for more deep dives into cartels, organized crime, geopolitics, and the hidden forces shaping Latin America. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 End of the War in Sinaloa 01:01 US Crackdown on Corrupt Politicians 02:59 Power Struggles and Betrayals 04:42 Political Ties and Cartel Connections 05:51 Desperation, Alliances, and Downfall 06:16 US Pressure Across Latin America 07:51 Historic Indictments and Political Fallout 08:42 Mexico’s Dilemma: Sovereignty vs. Extradition 09:56 US Surveillance & International Involvement 11:01 CIA’s Role and Growing Tensions 12:12 Cartel Weakened and Next Moves 13:02 The End of an Era for the Guzmán Dynasty 13:46 Shift in Cartel Operations & Future Outlook 14:40 Ongoing Developments and Closing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is Part 1 of a five-part miniseries on Tim Griesheimer's life. Tim is by far one of the most popular guests we've had on the show, so this series dives even deeper into his life featuring new stories about gang life, prison, identity, trauma, and redemption. In this episode, Tim shares the early chapters of his life, from growing up in an abusive household to finding acceptance in the streets, gang culture, and eventually prison. Tim opens up about what it was like being white while running with mostly Black friends and Blood gang members, how racial dynamics differed between Ohio and Texas, and the controversy around using the n-word. He also describes childhood violence, early crime, carrying guns as a kid, shootouts, and how he became drawn to the outlaw lifestyle before his first prison sentence. Topics include: -Growing up in Ohio and Texas -Childhood abuse and street life -Being white around Blood gang members -Saying the n-word and facing consequences -Early gun violence and shootouts -Racial tension in Texas -First experiences with prison politics -Finding identity through crime and gang culture Go Support Tim! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bykriminalkustoms/ 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 Prescription required. See website for details and important safety information. Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra®. Viagra® is a registered trademark of Viatris Specialty LLC. Hims is not affiliated with or endorsed by Viatris. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 From a Troubled Home to the Streets 01:01 Introducing Tim Griesheimer's Story 04:47 Connecting with People and Early Social Traits 07:09 Nature vs. Nurture and Developing an Outlaw Mentality 10:27 Embracing the Streets: Stealing and Early Crimes 13:01 Fighting, Survival, and Street Cred 17:08 Shootouts and Guns at a Young Age 21:12 Gang Affiliations: Bloods, Crips, and Neighborhood Politics 25:48 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 27:38 Reflecting on Gang Life, Family Bonds, and Military Ambitions 33:13 Childhood Abuse and Family Trauma 36:50 Violence at Home and Resentment Toward Parents 41:13 Cycles of Abuse: Family History 43:14 Moving Between States & Unstable Upbringing 45:27 Culture Shock: Racial Dynamics in Texas vs. Ohio 48:00 Experiencing Prejudice from Both Black and White Communities 50:01 First Time Going to Prison – Facing Reality 54:01 Arrival at the Most Dangerous Texas Prison 56:11 Navigating Prison Politics and Racial Pressure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jonathan Alpeyrie is a war photographer and journalist who has spent time documenting the darkest corners of the global drug trade — from cartel territory in Mexico and the favelas of Brazil to the streets of Kensington, Skid Row, Baltimore, and the mega-prisons of El Salvador. Jonathan breaks down what he’s seen firsthand while embedding with drug gangs, addicts, undercover police units, and special forces around the world. He explains how European drug gangs are becoming more powerful, why France, Belgium, and Holland are turning into major narco hubs, and how Mexican cartels are exporting their violence and tactics into Europe. Jonathan also discusses the rise of fentanyl in America, the origins of the synthetic opioid pipeline, the brutal reality of addiction on the streets, and what he witnessed inside El Salvador’s crackdown on MS-13. From undercover drug buys in Europe to firefights in Rio’s favelas, this is a raw look at the worldwide drug crisis from someone who has seen it up close. Go Support Jonathan! Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Drug-Wars/Jonathan-Alpeyrie/9780972115247 Website: https://jonathanalpeyrie.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/jonalpeyrie/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 European Drug Gangs & Cartel Tactics 02:00 War Reporter’s Background 03:55 Challenges of Access and Documentary Work 08:00 Undercover Ops with Cops & European Narcos 12:40 Weak Punishments & Overloaded European Prisons 15:50 Belgium, Holland & France: Europe's Crime Hotbeds 21:00 Ethnic Gangs and Emerging Alliances 27:00 Why Europe Is the “Crown Jewel” of the Drug Trade 35:00 Big Busts, Corruption & Mexican Cartel Influence 41:00 Fentanyl and Drug Crisis in the US 49:30 Drug Trends: Fentanyl, Meth, and Ketamine Scenes 54:00 MDMA, Ecstasy, and Party Drug Production 59:50 Inside Brazilian Favelas and Combat Zones 01:03:00 Violence, Danger & Drug Wars in Latin America 01:10:00 War Reporting: Syria, Iraq, and Hostage Experiences 01:20:00 Geopolitics, Proxy Wars & Global Destabilization 01:27:30 America’s Shifting Role & Future of Cartels 01:34:00 Personal Trauma, Resilience & Drug War Morality 01:41:00 Solutions, Nationalism, and The Limits of Idealism 01:45:00 Jonathan’s Mission & Final Thoughts 01:49:00 Book Plug & Closing Remarks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former federal inmate Eric King joins to expose what life is really like inside ADX Florence, America’s most notorious supermax prison. After being sentenced to 10 years for firebombing a politician’s office in 2014, King says he endured brutal treatment in federal custody, including beatings, starvation, solitary confinement, four-point restraints, and years of communication restrictions. In this episode, Eric opens up about his radicalization in Kansas City, the Ferguson protests, his federal case, surviving violent prison politics, fighting a guard in self-defense, winning at trial, and later being sent to ADX Florence in what he believes was retaliation. He also explains the psychological toll of extreme isolation, the myths surrounding ADX, how prisoners communicate inside, and what it took to rebuild his life after release. Eric is the author of A Clean Hell: Anarchy and Abolition Inside America’s Most Notorious Dungeon, a firsthand account of survival, resistance, and humanity inside the federal prison system. Topics include: -Eric King’s childhood and political awakening -Ferguson, direct action, and his federal charges -Violence, solitary confinement, and prison retaliation -Life inside ADX Florence -The psychological effects of extreme isolation -Reentry, trauma, family, and healing after prison Go Support Eric! Book: https://pmpress.org/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1872 IG: https://www.instagram.com/supportericking/ 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 Prescription required. See website for details and important safety information. Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra®. Viagra® is a registered trademark of Viatris Specialty LLC. Hims is not affiliated with or endorsed by Viatris. Cash App! 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. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Eric King Introduction 02:00 Eric's Early Life & Radicalization 06:00 Growing Up: Crime, Poverty, and Activism 12:00 Losing Faith & Early Legal Troubles 18:00 Protest, Ferguson, and Political Activism 21:06 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 22:41 The Crime: Ferguson Response & Arrest 29:00 Prison: First Experiences & Racial Politics 34:00 Surviving Prison Culture & Targeting 40:00 Abuse by Guards & Florence Medium Incident 45:42 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 47:00 Torture, Four-Point Room & Transfer Hell 53:00 Isolation, Violence, and Solitary Life 01:00:00 Fighting Back: Resistance & Prison Protests 01:14:00 Second Trial: Self-Defense, Winning in Court 01:20:00 ADX Florence: Punishment & Reprisal Transfers 01:28:00 Arriving at ADX: Conditions and Isolation 01:37:00 ADX Daily Life & Psychological Impact 01:49:00 Punitive System, Corruption, and Quota Reality 01:56:00 Surviving Isolation: Mental Discipline & Gratitude 02:00:00 Reentry: Life After Prison & Its Challenges 02:06:00 Reflection: Regrets, Growth, and Activism Now 02:12:00 ADX Realities, Mythbusting & Book Release 02:18:00 ADX Procedures, High-Profile Inmates & Closing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Carlos McAdory shares his unbelievable journey from growing up in St. Paul, Minnesota, to becoming involved in street crime, armed robberies, and eventually receiving a federal life sentence. He breaks down how a local robbery case became a federal Hobbs Act conspiracy, why his codefendants cooperated, and how refusing to cooperate led to an extreme sentence: 20 life sentences. Carlos also explains the legal loopholes, sentencing errors, and federal “three strikes” issue that ultimately helped him beat life and come home after serving 19 years, 2 months, and 4 days. This conversation covers street life in Minnesota, prison politics, federal sentencing, the trial penalty, legal appeals, studying law from prison, and the mindset it took to keep fighting when the system said he would never come home. Watch as Carlos opens up about accountability, redemption, fatherhood, the justice system, and what he’s building now through his documentary work and podcast. Go Support Carlos And Follow His New YouTube Channel @RebuildingCarlos Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction: Carlos's Story 01:00 Background: Growing Up in St. Paul 03:20 Street Life, Gangs, and Early Crimes 08:40 First Prison Term & Sentencing in Minnesota 11:00 Returning to the Streets & Second Prison Sentence 17:50 Life in State Prison and Street Hustles 24:00 Transition to Federal Crimes & Armed Robberies 34:00 The Robbery Conspiracy Unfolds 40:00 Getting Caught: Arrests, Cooperation & The Feds 46:00 Going to Trial & Federal Sentencing 54:00 Life Sentence and Injustice in the System 01:04:00 Learning the Law: DIY Legal Battle 01:12:00 Breakthrough: Discovering the Illegal Sentence 01:22:00 Appeals, Denials, and Never Losing Hope 01:31:00 Change in Law & Second Chance 01:40:00 Coming Home: Life After Prison 01:47:00 Reflections, Lessons, and New Beginnings 01:52:20 Documentary, Podcast, and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Actor and Hollywood stuntman Erik “All Day” Audé joins The Connect for one of the most intense stories ever told on the channel. In 2002, Erik was arrested in Pakistan after unknowingly being used as a drug mule and accused of attempting to smuggle narcotics through the airport. What followed was a nightmare: a death sentence, years inside one of Pakistan’s most dangerous maximum-security prisons, brutal conditions, riots, violence, corruption, and the constant fear that he would be the next prisoner executed. Erik breaks down how he was deceived, what life on death row was really like, how he survived the prison system, and how he eventually fought his way back to freedom after proving his innocence. He also talks about his career as a stuntman, the importance of safety on film sets, and the lessons he learned from surviving the unimaginable. This is a story about betrayal, survival, faith, justice, and what it takes to keep fighting when the entire system is against you. Go Support Erik! Book: https://www.amazon.com/Years-Pakistan-Erik-Aud%C3%A9-Story/dp/B0D1YFHP5X Movie: https://www.amazon.com/Years-Pakistan-Erik-Aud%C3%A9-Story/dp/B07FSRBWGL Aude’s Ice Cream Bar: https://www.instagram.com/audes_ice_cream_bar/ Tipsy Cow Bar and Grill: https://www.instagram.com/tipsycowshermanoaks/ Wine Bar: https://www.instagram.com/buvettela/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Betterhelp! You don’t have to be on this journey alone. Find support and have someone with you in therapy. Sign up and get 10% off at https://betterhelp.com/connect Lucy! Find LUCY near you at https://lucy.co/stores or save 20% on your first online order at https://lucy.co/CONNECT with promo code CONNECT. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Erik Audé's Nightmare: Pakistan Death Row 01:39 Introducing Erik's Story & Book 03:11 Hollywood Stunt Work & Industry Dangers 07:53 On-Set Injuries & Stunt Safety Culture 13:32 Behind the Scenes: Drug Smuggling Logistics 16:08 Exploiting Drivers & Realities of US-Mexico Smuggling 18:29 Deception Schemes: Mules, Tragedy & Innocent Couriers 20:15 This Episode Is Sponsored By Betterhelp 21:24 How Eric Became a Dupe in the Drug Trade 29:34 Pakistan's Corrupt Justice System & Bribery in Courts 33:24 This Episode Is Sponsored By Lucy 34:56 Erik's Recruitment—A Glamorous Leather Industry Cover 46:14 Erik's First Suspicious Smuggling Trips 55:02 The Trip to Pakistan: Red Flags and Arrest 01:03:54 Jailed in Pakistan: Culture Shock and Danger 01:14:17 Abuse, Survival, and Corruption Inside Prison 01:25:27 Violence, Survival, and Learning the System 01:41:09 Erik's Survival Tactics and Prison Power Plays 01:54:28 Prison Riots, Boxing, and Navigating Pakistani Jail Hierarchy 02:15:33 Appeals, Pakistani Lawyers, and Winning Respect 02:35:07 Fighting for Freedom: Legal Maneuvering from the Inside 02:57:06 High Court, Vindication, and Leaving Pakistan 03:02:39 Return Home, Civil Suit, and Final Justice 03:11:00 Erik Today: Lessons, Life After Prison & Reflections 03:13:33 Final Thoughts & Where to Find Erik's Story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carl Johnson grew up in the streets of Baltimore during the same era HBO was filming The Wire — but while the world watched the show, Carl lived the reality. In this episode, Carl breaks down what The Wire got right and wrong, how Baltimore’s open-air drug markets really operate, why the city became such a major heroin and fentanyl hub, and how the collapse of the old street-code changed the game forever. He also opens up about his own past in the streets, his mentor’s connection to the real Barksdale family, the violence that shaped Baltimore’s reputation, and why fentanyl has made today’s drug trade more dangerous than ever. Now out of the game, Carl works in recovery and helps others struggling with addiction through the Baltimore Recovery Alliance. This is a raw, unfiltered look inside one of America’s most infamous cities — from someone who survived it and turned his life around. We all watched The Wire. Carl Johnson lived it. Go Support Carl! Recovery Program: https://baltimorerecoveryalliance.com/ 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 Prescription required. See website for details and important safety information. Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra®. Viagra® is a registered trademark of Viatris Specialty LLC. Hims is not affiliated with or endorsed by Viatris. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Meet Carl: From Baltimore Streets to Rehab Counselor 03:45 Intro: The Wire & Baltimore's Unique Drug Market 07:07 Fentanyl Takes Over: Shifts in Baltimore's Drug Trade 13:47 Opiates, Rehab, and Open Air Markets 24:33 How the Drug Game Runs: Corners, Crews, and the Feds 32:14 Baltimore's Changing Landscape: Projects, Gentrification 38:11 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 39:47 Abandoned Buildings and Homicide Culture 50:25 Guns, Violence, and Life on the Corners 01:03:41 Life Lessons from the Streets: The Barksdale Legacy 01:11:15 Getting Into the Game: Carl's Early Hustles 01:19:55 Crack vs. Heroin: Insider Secrets, Hustle Hierarchies & Survival 01:34:32 Prison, Probation, and the Turning Point 02:05:31 Rehab, Redemption & Breaking Cycles 02:21:55 Addiction, Policy & Baltimore Recovery Alliance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this raw and unfiltered interview, Polo Cisneros breaks down how he built a multi-year career in the cocaine trade — and how the COVID-19 pandemic created the perfect storm for him to make over $1 million in record time. From supply shortages and skyrocketing prices to underground business strategies, Polo explains how the streets really work behind the scenes. He shares how he avoided prison for nearly two decades, the mindset that kept him alive, and why he ultimately walked away from the game. This isn’t a glorified story — it’s a real look at the risks, the money, and the consequences of life in the drug trade. In this episode: -How COVID changed the drug market overnight -Turning 1 kilo into massive profit -The strategy behind wholesale vs street-level dealing -Why he avoided violence and stayed under the radar -The moment he knew it was time to quit -The hidden costs of the lifestyle IG: https://www.instagram.com/get_yours_1000 Podcast: @Allways_In_Motion Website: https://allwaysinmotionproductions.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Meet Polo Cisneros 02:46 Building a Steady Coke Business 06:54 Learning the Game in New York & Jersey 09:29 Barbering, Connections & Learning to Press 13:37 Raw Product, Customers & Quality Control 15:19 Caribbean vs. Mexican Supply Routes 17:39 Colorado Grow & the Houston Connection 22:00 Walking Away From Bigger Cartel Ties 24:49 Growing the Business & Reinvesting in Logistics 28:18 Monthly Profit, Family Life & Staying Low-Key 31:13 Stash Spots, Driving Rules & Managing Risk 38:20 College Towns, Shore Towns & Out-of-State Customers 41:39 Molly, Club Drugs & Changing Trends 43:16 COVID Coke Shortage Changes Everything 45:01 Turning One Brick Into Ten 47:00 Making $2 Million During Lockdown 52:19 The Market Crashes & Going Legit 01:14:03 Filmmaking, Arrest, and Life After the Game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Houston street hustler Jugg sits down with to tell the unbelievable story of how he helped fuel the hydrocodone pill explosion across Louisiana and Texas during the early opioid epidemic. From moving thousands of pills a week out of Houston pain clinics to watching entire communities fall into addiction, Jugg gives a raw firsthand account of the rise of “lean culture,” pill trafficking, doctor shopping, Roxy 30s, and the transition into today’s fentanyl crisis. In this interview, Jugg breaks down: -How Houston pain clinics operated during the opioid boom -Making millions trafficking hydrocodone and Roxy pills -Drug culture in Houston and Louisiana in the 2000s -The rise of lean, syrup, and pill addiction -Corrupt clinics, pharmacies, and doctor shopping -Prison, street politics, and surviving the game -Why fentanyl changed everything -His life after prison running trucking businesses and podcasts This is one of the wildest untold stories from the Southern opioid epidemic — straight from someone who lived it. Go Support Jugg! IG: https://www.instagram.com/juggwdh YouTube: @wdhtv2 This Episode Is #Sponsored By Superpower! Head to https://superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/connect Prescription required. See website for details and important safety information. Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra®. Viagra® is a registered trademark of Viatris Specialty LLC. Hims is not affiliated with or endorsed by Viatris. Hell Fresh! Go to https://hellofresh.com/connect10fm now to Get 10 Free Meals + a Free breakfast for Life! One per box with active subscription. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. That’s HelloFresh dot com slash connect10fm to Get 10 Free Meals + free breakfast for Life. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Ground Floor of the Pill Game 01:45 Introducing Jugg: Origins & Early Hustle 03:30 Family Ties & Teenage Hustling 05:27 Crack, Pills & Generational Drug Shifts 08:17 The Houston Move & Pain Clinics 11:17 The Hydrocodone Boom 14:07 The Pill Market: Operations & Economics 19:07 Scaling Up: Distribution, Profits & Players 20:45 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 22:29 From Weed to Pills: Business Evolution 28:07 Doctor Shopping & Law Enforcement Crackdown 29:56 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 31:38 Switching to Roxys & New Market Challenges 35:37 Effects on Community & Pill Culture 39:34 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hello Fresh 41:05 The Pharmacy System & Regulatory Changes 45:07 Crossing Over: Racial Lines & Generational Impact 48:57 Legal Troubles & Escalating Risks 53:07 Prison Time & Lessons Learned 01:00:17 Fake Pills & Fentanyl Danger 01:04:57 Rap Life vs. Hustle Life 01:10:47 Life after the Game: Trucking & Entrepreneurship 01:14:57 Logistics, Trucking, and Felon-Friendly Careers 01:19:17 Reflections, Community & Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this PART 2 episode, Mundo returns to tell the next chapter of his unbelievable story. After years as a high-ranking Mexican Mafia member involved in multiple murders and violent operations, he describes the religious experience he had in jail that changed the course of his life. What follows is a shocking account of becoming a secret informant while still surrounded by fugitives, gang politics, drugs, and murder. Mundo explains how he began working with law enforcement, why he felt driven to help bring down the same organization he once served, and how his undercover role pulled him deeper into danger. He talks about working around figures like Joe Morgan, Alfie, and Sailor, the chaos of double lives, cartel-connected drug operations, bank robberies, contract killings, and the moment everything began closing in on him again. He also reflects on the cost of that life, his Christian faith, witness protection, and how he later became a trainer and consultant for law enforcement. The conversation closes with a deep look at the Mexican Mafia today, its structure, cartel ties, Sureño influence, and how prison gang power still shapes the streets. This is a raw, intense interview about violence, betrayal, redemption, and survival from someone who lived at the center of it. For Part 1 go to https://youtu.be/BjPka7eDvoc Go Support Mundo! Books: https://www.policeandfirepublishing.com/ YouTube: @convictsandcops Movie: https://www.amazon.com/Mundo-Vince-Romo/dp/B07MMP45GC Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Recap & Introduction to Mundo's Story 02:00 High Standing in the Mexican Mafia 04:00 Religious Experience and Departure 08:00 Facing the Organization & Seeking Redemption 13:00 Decision to Go Undercover 18:00 First Steps as an Informant 22:00 Working with Sailor & Early Undercover Operations 28:00 Navigating the Dope Game Undercover 37:00 Bank Robberies and Growing Paranoia 45:00 Contract Killings & Legal Troubles 51:00 Plea Deals and Testifying Against Joe Morgan 56:00 Witness Protection & Life After the Gang 01:03:00 Mexican Mafia Structure Today 01:10:00 Modern Cartel Connections 01:18:00 Personal Life, Faith, and Final Reflections 01:21:00 Books, Resources, and Closing Inspiration Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the streets of the South Bronx to running one of the busiest weed operations in New York City — this is the story of Angel Diaz, aka Julito. In this raw and unfiltered interview, Julito breaks down how he was raised in the drug game, watching his mother move heroin and cocaine before stepping into the streets himself at just 12 years old. From selling crack and flipping weed to building a massive distribution network moving pounds daily, he shares how loyalty, hustle, and survival shaped his rise. But the game comes with a price. Julito opens up about violence, betrayal, federal indictments, and the moment everything came crashing down due to snitches and internal conflict. After years behind bars, he reflects on the truth most don’t talk about: There’s no glory in the street life. Go Support Julito! IG: https://www.instagram.com/bx_julito/ Clothing: https://www.maisonbullion.co Book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-united-states-of-america-v-julito-angel-diaz/1146480500 This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Lucy! Find LUCY near you at https://lucy.co/stores, or save 20% on your first online order at https://lucy.co/CONNECT with promo code CONNECT. Shopify! Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at https://shopify.com/mitchell Betterhelp! When life feels overwhelming, therapy can help. Sign up and get 10% off at https://betterhelp.com/connect Cash App! 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. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: Meet Julito – Bronx Weed Kingpin 01:53 Puerto Rican Roots & Family in the South Bronx 03:56 Julito's Upbringing & Family's Criminal Past 10:05 Early Hustles: Family Drug Business 16:39 Growing Up Surrounded by Drugs & Violence 21:15 This Episode Is Sponsored By Lucy 22:40 Weed, Heroin, Crack: Bronx Drug Culture Breakdown 30:00 This Episode Is Sponsored By Shopify and Betterhelp 32:38 Julito's First Steps as a Young Hustler 36:19 The Weed Block Corner Sales 41:52 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 43:16 From Corners To Big Business 48:45 Clientele, Profits & Outwitting the Law 55:40 Moving Up: Gaining Trust and Becoming the Boss 01:12:01 Running the Block & Dealing with Competition 01:23:50 Weed Droughts, Strains, and Evolving Drug Game 01:31:07 The Rise of Sour Diesel and High-End Weed 01:36:01 Block Politics & Rivalries in the Bronx 01:43:43 Violence, Betrayal, and the Feds Closing In 01:54:41 The Murder, the Snitch, and the Downfall 02:07:38 Feds Build Their Case & Block Goes Down 02:18:27 Prison, Reflecting on the Game & Life Lessons 02:20:19 Life After Prison & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this part 2 chat, we sit down with Mark Branon who was sentenced to 60 years (a life sentence) and survived some of the most dangerous federal penitentiaries in the United States. He shares the full story—from alleged government misconduct in his case, to fighting endless appeals that went nowhere, to navigating brutal prison politics where violence was a daily reality. Inside, he lived through: -Extreme conditions in Maricopa County Jail -Relentless pressure to snitch—and the consequences of refusing -High-level prison yards like Victorville, where stabbings were routine -Years in solitary confinement (the SHU) -Organized riots, race wars, and prison hierarchy -Personal loss, including the tragic death of his son while he was locked up Despite everything, he eventually overturned part of his case and walked free. Now on the outside, he’s focused on helping others—especially those dealing with grief, trauma, and rebuilding after rock bottom. This is a raw, unfiltered look at survival, resilience, and what it really takes to endure decades behind bars. Go Support Mark! IG: https://www.instagram.com/dagomark_619/ Thriving Again: https://thrivingagain.health/ Check Out Part 1 Here: https://youtu.be/FtHlg8Q-mbU Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Opening: Facing a Life Sentence 01:17 Legal Battles & Appeals 06:08 Maricopa County Jail & State Charges 13:02 Return to Federal Prison & Gang Politics 19:01 Entering Victorville: Hardest Time Yet 24:02 Prison Codes: Paperwork & S Offenders 30:55 Riots, Violence & Prison Discipline 39:33 Surviving Isolation & Mental Challenges 46:04 Adaptation & Daily Life in the Hole 51:40 Violence, Power & Prison Hierarchy 01:00:11 Passing Time: Hustles & Survival 01:12:05 Race Wars & Prison Rules 01:17:17 Leadership, De-Escalation & Prison Politics 01:21:00 Personal Loss & Finding Meaning 01:29:31 Parole, Yards & Final Reflections 01:39:17 Moving Forward & Helping Others Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Johnny sits down with Richie Ng, a former member of the Ghost Shadows gang who shares one of the most intense prison stories ever told on the show. At just 16 years old, Richie took a life and was thrown into the chaos of Rikers Island during one of the most violent eras in New York history. What followed was decades of gang politics, stabbings, solitary confinement, and survival inside some of the toughest prisons in the system. But this isn’t just a story about crime… It’s about transformation. After serving 18 years, Richie walked out into a completely different world. Against all odds, he rebuilt his life—launching a business, getting discovered by chance, and eventually becoming a working actor in Hollywood. Then… one mistake nearly sent him back for good. This episode dives deep into: -Growing up as a Chinese immigrant in NYC -Being recruited into gang life at just 10–11 years old -The reality of violence inside Rikers Island -7 years in solitary confinement -Prison hustle, power, and survival mentality -Rebuilding life after decades locked up -How one moment of anger changed everything again -The mindset shift that finally stuck Raw. Unfiltered. Real. Go Support Richie! IG: https://www.instagram.com/therealrichieng/ YouTube: @chinatowngangstories This Episode Is Sponsored By The Following: Mars Men! For a limited time, our listeners get 50% off FOR LIFE, Free Shipping, AND 3 Free Gifts at Mars Men at https://mengotomars.com Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/connect PrizePicks! Download the PrizePicks app today and pick your first game winner, spread or total as the playoff push rolls on! And get $50 in daily fantasy lineups when you play your first $5 lineup when you use code CONNECT. PrizePicks Predict is a registered FCM offering Team Picks and Culture Picks as event contracts. Trading involves significant risk; not for all. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation to trade any commodity interest, or an offer to open an account. The Connect is not registered with the CFTC or NFA. PrizePicks Predict does not endorse or guarantee any statements made by third-party promoters or influencers. Please consult with a qualified professional before making any trading decisions. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Opening: Richie's Dark Beginnings 02:00 Gang Life and Running the Streets 05:00 Growing Up Chinese in New York 10:00 Joining the Ghost Shadows 13:00 Gang Violence and Arrest at 16 18:00 Surviving Rikers Island in the '90s 24:07 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mars Men 26:07 Rules, Power, & Survival in Prison 33:00 Family Estrangement & the Immigrant Struggle 40:00 Gang Hierarchies and Racial Dynamics 45:23 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims and PrizePicks 49:27 First Charges: Court, Sentencing, and Mindset 53:00 The Prison Hustle: Drugs and Power Dynamics 01:00:00 Solitary: 7 Years in the Box 01:10:00 Prison Violence, Staff Abuse, and Punishments 01:20:00 Life in the Hole: Extreme Survival Tactics 01:26:00 Programming, Parole, and Getting Out 01:34:00 Return to the Outside: Rebuilding Life 01:42:00 Business & Hustles After Prison 01:47:00 From Prison to Actor: Breaking into Hollywood 02:00:00 New Life, Second Incarceration, and Growth 02:10:00 Final Reflections and Redemption 02:18:00 Looking Forward: Making Amends and Family Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What starts as a childhood in East Los Angeles turns into a life shaped by gangs, prison, and violence. In this raw and unfiltered interview, a former Mexican Mafia member—Mundo—breaks down his journey from rebellion and low self-esteem to becoming deeply embedded in one of the most feared prison organizations in the United States. He shares firsthand stories about growing up in gang-infested neighborhoods, his first time in juvenile hall, and how prison culture transformed him. From brutal violence and survival tactics behind bars to the psychology of gang loyalty, identity, and fear—this is a rare inside look into a world few ever truly understand. In this episode: -Growing up in East LA and early influences -Why people really join gangs (it’s not what you think) -First time in juvenile hall and adapting to survive -The moment everything changed: first homicide -Prison politics, race dynamics, and gang structure -The rise and influence of the Mexican Mafia -How violence becomes normalized behind bars -The reality of loyalty, fear, and identity in gang life This isn’t glamorized. It’s real. And it’s a story about consequences. Go Support Mundo! Books: https://www.policeandfirepublishing.com/ YouTube: @convictsandcops Movie: https://www.amazon.com/Mundo-Vince-Romo/dp/B07MMP45GC This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: GLD! New customers get 40% Off with code MITCHELL at https://GLD.com Superpower! Head to https://superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod BetterHelp! When life feels overwhelming, therapy can help. Sign up and get 10% off at https://betterhelp.com/connect Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Mundo's Violent Life Begins 02:00 Introducing Ramon "Mundo" Mendoza 03:30 Why Mundo Wears a Mask & His Early Life 06:30 Growing Up in Boyle Heights and Gang Culture 09:00 Juvenile Hall and the Onset of Violence 13:00 Gang Identity and Early Violence 17:00 Life in Juvenile Hall: Survival and Respect 20:38 This Episode Is Sponsored By GLD 22:13 First Major Gang Beefs & Beatings 26:00 Mundo's First Homicide and Its Impact 31:00 Retaliation, Machine Guns & Escalation 37:34 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 39:01 Going to Prison: The Start of a New Chapter 44:00 Early Days in Prison: Riots and Survival 51:00 Prison Politics: Gangs, Drugs & Race 56:00 Murder in Prison and Evasion of Justice 58:35 This Episode Is Sponsored By BetterHelp 59:14 Killing Inside: Desensitization & Prison Life 01:10:00 From Prison Violence to the Outside World 01:14:12 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 01:15:44 Joining the Mexican Mafia: Becoming a Member 01:23:00 Life as a Made Member: Hits, Power & Respect 01:31:00 The Evolution and Expansion of La Eme 01:39:00 Organized Crime: Heroin, Money & Murder Inc. 01:47:00 Structure of Surenos & Influence Over California 01:54:00 La Eme, the Cartels, and National Influence 02:01:00 Collection, Power, and Street-Level Operations 02:07:00 The Murder Case That Changed Everything 02:15:00 Conversion, Remorse, and Turning Point 02:21:00 Leaving the Mafia & Finding a New Path 02:24:00 Becoming an Author & Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this PART 2 episode, Dominican kingpin Adam Diaz sits down for a wild, unfiltered conversation about his rise from the streets of New York to the top levels of the cocaine trade. He talks about building major operations in Brooklyn, working with powerful Colombian connections, and moving massive amounts of cocaine through mules, warehouses, and import businesses. Adam also opens up about prison, trying to go legit after getting out, why he got pulled back into the game, and how his second federal case finally brought everything down. From the Medellín-era drug world to front corporations, heroin deals, close calls with police, and losing millions in property, this is a firsthand story about ambition, power, risk, and the cost of living that life. Topics covered in this interview: -Growing up between the Dominican Republic and New York -Becoming a major cocaine supplier in NYC -Colombian cartel connections -Drug smuggling through luggage and import businesses -Life after prison and failed attempts to go legit -Heroin trafficking in the late 1990s -Federal investigations, informants, and arrest -Deportation and life today Go Support Adam! https://kingofbrooklyn.weebly.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Smuggling Cocaine: Early Operations 01:40 Rise in New York's Drug Trade 02:56 Adam's Background and Life in the US 05:00 Becoming a Kingpin & Building Operations 10:12 Prison, Parole, and Reentry 13:39 Getting Back Into the Game 17:52 Partnerships with Medellin Cartel 21:02 New Logistics: Miami to New York 24:33 Innovating Smuggling Tactics 27:09 Launching Shell Companies and Corporations 32:08 Securing Documents and Going International 36:54 Banana & Malanga Shipments: Sophisticated Operations 43:27 Importing and Moving Massive Loads 47:40 Warehouses, Distributors, and the Bronx Connection 51:02 Manpower and Money: Running the Smuggling Business 54:44 Handling Distribution, Losses, and Risks 01:01:29 Who Buys the Coke? Managing Customers 01:06:05 Heroin, Laptops, and Market Expansion 01:11:27 How the Feds Finally Got Adam 01:17:03 Avoiding Law Enforcement and Getting Lucky 01:26:45 Second Indictment, Sentencing, and Prison 01:35:08 Deportation and Life After Prison 01:38:13 Reflections on Life and Legacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From surfer to cartel kingpin… then a 60-year sentence. In this wild episode, Mark Branon shares his unbelievable rise as one of the biggest marijuana traffickers in the U.S.—moving up to 30,000 lbs across the country while working with the Sinaloa cartel. From flying loads over the border to building million-dollar smuggling operations, his story sounds straight out of a movie. But everything changed when a prosecutor targeted him… and he made a decision that would haunt him forever. Inside this episode: -Running multi-ton marijuana operations coast-to-coast -Working directly with cartel networks in Mexico -Close calls with DEA, informants, and betrayals -The attempted hit on a prosecutor that went horribly wrong -How his own lawyer flipped and helped take him down -Life sentence, prison politics, and eventual release This is a raw, unfiltered look at the rise and fall of a real-life drug boss—and the consequences that followed. Go Support Mark! https://thrivingagain.health/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: StopBox! Get firearm security redesigned and save 10% off @StopBoxUSA with code CONNECT at https://stopboxusa.com/connect #stopboxpod HelloFresh! Go to https://hellofresh.com/connect10fm now to Get 10 Free meals + Free Nutribullet® Ultra Plus+ 2-in-1 Compact Kitchen System (a $189.99 value) on your 3rd box. Free meals applied as a discount on the first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Disclaimer: Must order the 3rd box by May 31st, 2026. Cash App! 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. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Meet Mark & His Wild Story 01:55 Mark’s Early Life & Upbringing 07:07 Surf Culture & First Steps into the Drug Game 14:40 This Episode Is Sponsored By StopBox 16:20 First Bust & Learning Prison Networking 19:24 Smuggling by Air: Thrill, Guns & Close Calls 25:01 From Air Drops to Cartel Connections 31:09 Working with the Arellano Felix Organization 38:38 Cabo, Corruption, and Building a Double Life 40:12 This Episode Is Sponsored By HelloFresh 41:55 DEA Surveillance & Cat-and-Mouse 54:59 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 56:22 Transition to Sinaloa & Rafa’s Crew 01:03:30 The Art of Moving Major Weight 01:10:06 Logistics: Networks, Stashing & Scaling Up 01:17:08 Downfall: Betrayal from Within the Crew 01:26:01 Legal Nightmare: State and Federal Cases 01:34:35 The Prosecutor Plot & The Botched Hit 01:45:41 Legal Proceedings Get Dirtier 01:52:47 Conviction, Prison, & How Mark Got Out 02:08:04 Release, Reflections & What’s Next 02:22:21 Closing Thoughts & What’s Coming in Part 2 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode with journalist Jorge Ventura, we break down what’s really happening at the U.S.–Mexico border, Trump’s deportation strategy, and the hidden crisis fueling cartel power. From mass deportation plans and urban ICE operations to cartel smuggling networks and the shocking rise in global migrants, this conversation goes far beyond the headlines. We also dive deep into one of the most disturbing stories rarely covered in mainstream media — Mexico’s missing persons crisis — where thousands are disappearing and families are forced to search for mass graves on their own. This is a raw, on-the-ground look at immigration, cartels, and the future of U.S. policy in Latin America. Topics Covered: -Why border crossings dropped — and why they’re rising again -Trump’s deportation strategy and why it backfired -Inside ICE operations in cities like Minneapolis -How cartels smuggle migrants from China, the Middle East, and beyond -The role of countries like Nicaragua in global migration routes -Media narratives vs reality at the border -Mexico’s missing persons crisis (200,000+ disappeared) -Cartel forced labor, recruitment, and human trafficking -U.S. foreign policy, CIA involvement, and future military possibilities Go Support Jorge! YouTube: @Venturareports IG: https://www.instagram.com/jorgeventuratv/ 00:00 Mexico's Disappeared: The Missing Persons Crisis 04:48 Cartels, Kidnapping, and Community Power 07:26 Border Policy Shifts: Trump vs. Biden 13:01 Cartels & Special Interest Migrants at the Border 18:42 Fears of Terror Cells and Cartel Smuggling 25:23 How Cartels Use Forced Labor and Disappearances 34:43 Inside Parent Search Groups & Mass Graves 42:45 The Economics Behind Kidnappings and Forced Labor 49:22 Cartel Networks, S*x Trade & Exploitation 54:57 US-Mexico Relations and Military Involvement? 01:01:41 Mass Deportation Pushback: The Minneapolis Story 01:13:39 Protests, Community Resistance & Political Impact 01:20:44 International Shifts: Foreign Policy and Mexico's Future 01:27:30 The Scope of Corruption, Disappearances, and Daily Life 01:34:02 Reporting in Mexico: Human Stories & Lost Voices 01:39:39 Continuing the Coverage: Future Investigations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the cities of the Dominican Republic to the streets of Washington Heights to the heart of Brooklyn’s most dangerous neighborhoods, this is the untold story of Adam Diaz — a teenage immigrant who rose to become one of New York’s most powerful cocaine kingpins. By just 18 years old, Diaz had already made his first million. Within a year, he was moving dozens of kilos a day through a network of bodegas, hidden stash houses, and underground tunnels — building an empire that generated millions of dollars weekly. His operation stretched across boroughs, fueled by direct connections to Colombian suppliers and protected by corruption at the highest levels, including ties to dirty NYPD officers. But behind the wealth, power, and influence was a world of constant violence, paranoia, and survival. Shootouts in broad daylight, rival crews, federal investigations, and betrayals from within — every move carried deadly consequences. This conversation dives deep into the rise, expansion, and eventual downfall of Adam Diaz’s drug empire, revealing how the crack era, systemic corruption, and street economics created a perfect storm for one of the most explosive criminal careers of the 1980s. From million-dollar days to federal prison sentences, this is a raw and unfiltered look at ambition, risk, and the true cost of the drug game. Go Support Adam! https://kingofbrooklyn.weebly.com/ 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 Prescription required. See website for details and important safety information. Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra®. Viagra® is a registered trademark of Viatris Specialty LLC. Hims is not affiliated with or endorsed by Viatris. Shopify! It’s time to turn those “What Ifs” into with Shopify today. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at https://shopify.com/mitchell Ava! Take control of your credit today. Download the Ava app, and when you join using MY promo code CONNECT20, you’ll get 20% off your first year—monthly or annual, your choice. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Adam Diaz's Rise: Making a Million at 18 02:00 From Dominican Republic to NYC: Early Life 05:30 Dominican Drug Dealers in New York 10:00 Washington Heights & NYC Drug Scene 16:58 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims! 18:29 Getting into the Game: Family Ties 22:00 First Bodega Hustles and Street Fights 26:00 Taking Over the Drug Spot 29:40 This Episode Is Sponsored By Shopify! 31:56 Scaling Up: Building the Network 35:00 Supply Chains: Colombian Connections 41:00 The Bodega Operation: Logistics & Hidden Tunnels 47:00 Expansion: Multiple Bodegas, Factories & Staff 50:17 This Episode Is Sponsored By Ava! 51:39 Dealing with Cops and Corruption 01:00:00 Major Busts, Stick-Ups, and Surviving Shootouts 01:05:00 Wholesale Moves & Dealing with Competition 01:14:00 Importing Direct: Wanting to Be the Plug 01:18:00 Peak Operations: Moving Serious Weight 01:22:00 Paying Off Police & Dirty Cops in the Mix 01:27:00 Violence, Loyalty, and Surviving Attacks 01:34:00 Going Global: Importing and Losing Millions 01:43:00 The Fall: Getting Caught and Beating the Case 01:51:00 Court Drama and Plea Bargain 01:59:00 Family Reactions and Reflection 02:04:00 Sentencing and Aftermath 02:09:00 Present Day: Life After the Drug Game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

El Diablo is back for Part 2 of this intense interview about cartel violence, the reported death of El Mencho, and the shifting power structure inside CJNG and the Sinaloa cartel. In this episode, El Diablo shares his version of what happened after Mencho was captured, explains why the violence exploded across Mexico, and gives his take on who could take over CJNG next. He also breaks down the ongoing war in Sinaloa, why he believes it won’t end anytime soon, and how cartel alliances are changing behind the scenes. The conversation also goes deep into the business side of trafficking: cocaine routes, marijuana smuggling, cartel logistics, foreign associates, money laundering, crypto, and why synthetic drugs are reshaping the entire underworld. El Diablo reflects on three decades in the game, the costs of that life, and why he believes it’s time to get out. This is Part 2 of one of the wildest cartel interviews on the channel. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Aftermath of Mencho's Death 03:39 How Mencho Was Really Killed 06:31 Cartel Violence and Power Struggles 09:40 Succession, Alliances & Ongoing War 13:41 Life as a Drug Trafficker in the US 16:45 From Weed to Cocaine: Shifts in Smuggling 20:49 Drug Logistics: Air, Land & Water Routes 25:00 Family Legacy and Prison Stories 27:34 Retirement Plans and Loyalty in the Game 31:20 Behind the Scenes: Money, Partnerships, and Risks 36:41 Narco Culture, Corridos, and Fame 41:21 Money Laundering and Cryptocurrency in the Cartels 46:34 Changing Drug Trends & Generation Shift 48:03 Dangers, Addictions, and the Modern Cartel World 49:45 Scale of the Cocaine Trade 50:31 Reflections, Retirement, and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the inside of Texas maximum-security prisons to the heights of a multi-million dollar drug empire, this is the story of Tim Griesheimer — a man who lived both sides of chaos and control. After serving time as a gang member, Tim walked out of prison with a plan… but not the one most would expect. Within months, he was deeply embedded in the underground drug economy, moving massive quantities of meth and marijuana, working alongside cartel-connected suppliers, and generating hundreds of thousands of dollars at a time. The operation was fast, calculated, and dangerously efficient. But with that level of success came constant paranoia, betrayal, and the ever-present threat of law enforcement. Raids, arrests, and close calls became part of everyday life. As the walls began closing in, Tim went on the run — continuing to operate across state lines while carrying the weight of a system determined to catch up with him. Eventually, it did. What followed wasn’t just another prison sentence — it was a turning point. Behind bars, stripped of everything, Tim found discipline, faith, and a new identity. Converting to Islam, dedicating himself to self-improvement, and learning the art of tattooing, he began rebuilding from the inside out. This episode explores the rise, fall, and transformation of a man who lived at the extreme edges of risk and survival — and ultimately chose a different path. A story about power, consequences, and redemption. Go Support Tim! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bykriminalkustoms/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Venice AI! Go to https://venice.ai/theconnect and use code theconnect for 20% off a Pro plan. Use AI. Just don’t surrender your privacy to use it. Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/CONNECT Featured products include compounded drug products, which the FDA does not approve or verify for safety, effectiveness, or quality. Prescription required. See website for details, restrictions, and important safety information. Actual price will depend on product and subscription plan. Superpower! Head to https://superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro & Tim's Background 01:40 Getting Out of Prison & Making Contacts 04:05 First Days Home: Adjusting & Old Friends 06:41 Jumping Into the Drug Game 09:46 Early Hustles: Meth & Pills 12:38 Climbing the Ranks, Bigger Moves 15:44 Landing a Major Plug 20:42 Protect Your Privacy Against AI With Venice AI 22:02 Dealing with Paranoia & Moving Weight 25:32 Expanding Business & Facing Threats 31:12 Life in the Fast Lane: Money & Clubs 40:41 Networking in Strip Clubs & Money Stacking 45:02 New Plugs & Stash Spots 48:08 Get Simple Online Access To Affordable Care For ED At Hims 49:23 Surviving Competition & Paranoia 01:00:00 Busting Down the Numbers: Profits & Hustle 1:03:05 Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions With Superpower 01:04:13 Going On The Run: Ohio Weed Pipeline 01:17:28 Law Enforcement Pressure & Homeland Security 01:30:00 Arrest & Jailhouse Savvy 01:40:41 Legal Nightmares & Second Prison Stint 01:56:48 Reflections, Identity & Prison Politics 02:10:10 Life Lessons, Parole & Turning it Around 02:20:00 Converting to Islam: Brotherhood & Change 02:30:00 Prison Race Lines, Finding Identity 02:37:00 Building Respect & Bridging Divides 02:44:00 Release, Parole, and New Beginnings 02:46:00 Tattooing, Redemption & Advice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Dominican Republic has quietly become one of the most important drug trafficking hubs in the world. In this episode, former kingpin Adam Diaz reveals how the island transformed into a critical bridge for cocaine moving from South America to the United States and Europe. Through firsthand accounts, he explains the systems behind modern smuggling—how drugs are transported, repackaged, and moved across borders using a combination of strategy, corruption, and global connections. From the streets of Washington Heights in the 1980s to the ports and coastlines of the Caribbean, this documentary explores the rise of Dominican traffickers, their relationship with Colombian suppliers, and the networks that allowed them to operate at scale. It also examines the role of weak enforcement, bribery within institutions, and the economic forces that continue to fuel the trade. Beyond the logistics, Adam reflects on the human side of the underworld—power, wealth, loyalty, and the personal consequences that come with it. This is a rare inside look at a system that operates largely out of sight, shaping the global drug trade in ways few people fully understand. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Drug Smuggling Rebounds in the Caribbean 02:21 Why the Dominican Republic is a Trafficking Bridge 04:43 Inside Adam Diaz's Drug Empire 07:32 How Money and Goods Flow Back to the DR 10:10 Why the DR Became a Smuggling Hub 13:40 Military, Police & Corruption in Trafficking 15:31 Creative Smuggling Methods: From Luggage to Mules 20:06 Puerto Rico Route 23:25 Smuggling People and Pot in the DR 25:12 No Cartels, Just Quiet Drug Networks 26:38 Reflections on a Drug Lord's Legacy & Regrets 27:43 Wrap-Up & Where to Find More Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ed Calderon returns to break down the killing of El Mencho, the chaos that followed across Mexico, and why this may have been far more than a cartel raid. This video is #sponsored by Current. Get Current! Sign up at https://current.com/johnnymitchell?utm_source=inf&utm_campaign=johnnymitchell&utm_adgroup=Johnny_Mitchell_3_2026 and use MY promo code JOHNNYMITCHELL to get $50! and unlock tools like a paycheck advance, credit building, and more. Terms and conditions apply. See https://current.com/legal_disclaimers for details. We get into the rumors that Mencho surrendered, the theory that he was executed instead of arrested, and why Ed believes the highest levels of the Mexican deep state may have wanted him dead. We also talk about CJNG’s response, the cartel’s growing resemblance to an insurgency, military corruption, the World Cup security angle, and what Mencho’s death really changes for drug trafficking in Mexico. If you thought this was a clean win for the government, think again. Topics include: -Was El Mencho killed in a firefight or executed after surrendering? -Why the Mexican military may have acted on its own -The cartel roadblocks, fires, and nationwide retaliation -Corruption inside the military and federal forces -Why CJNG may be evolving into a political insurgency -Whether Mencho’s death changes anything at all -The possibility of future U.S. involvement in Mexico Go Support Ed! Join the Telegram: https://rotten.mx YouTube: @manifestoradionetwork3191 IG: https://www.instagram.com/manifestoradiopodcast/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Current! Current is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. FDIC insurance up to $250,000 only covers the failure of an FDIC-insured bank. Certain conditions must be satisfied for pass-through deposit insurance coverage to apply. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and/or Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. Betterhelp! Your emotional wellbeing matters. Find support and feel lighter in therapy. Sign up and get 10% off at https://betterhelp.com/connect. PrizePicks! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CONNECT and use code CONNECT to get $50 in daily fantasy lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Rumors & Theories About Mencho's Death 02:25 Ed Calderon Joins the Conversation 05:04 Cartel Power Shifts & New Players 07:00 CJNG Response & Insurgency Tactics 10:00 The Raid: What Really Happened? 14:14 How Was Mencho Located and Taken Down? 18:46 Aftermath & The Government’s Role 20:51 This Episode Is Sponsored By Current 22:06 Military Power & Deep State in Mexico 31:00 Conspiracy vs. Reality: Did Mencho Surrender? 35:00 Cartel-Government Deals & Fallout 39:45 This Episode Is Sponsored By Betterhelp and PrizePicks 42:35 Public Reactions & National Sentiment 47:00 Violence, Missing People, and Statistics 50:20 Shifts in Alliances & Drug Routes 01:04:08 US-Mexico Relations & Future Scenarios 01:13:01 Advice for Troubled Times & Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny sits down with “El Diablo,” an active high-ranking member of the Sinaloa cartel, for a rare and intense conversation about the realities of the modern drug trade. El Diablo talks about how he got started at just 14 years old, how cartel loyalty works, the logistics of moving cocaine from Colombia through Mexico and into the United States, and why he believes staying low-key kept him out of prison for over 30 years. He also breaks down how distribution networks operate across the U.S., how money is moved and laundered, the role of trucking and logistics, internal cartel politics, and why major arrests and killings rarely stop the flow of drugs. Toward the end, he opens up about the personal cost of the lifestyle, the violence, betrayal, and fear that come with it, and why he says he’s finally ready to walk away. This is one of the most raw and eye-opening interviews yet on The Connect. Topics covered: -cartel life -cocaine trafficking -Sinaloa cartel, border smuggling -cartel loyalty -money laundering -trucking routes -drug distribution -organized crime -leaving the game This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Ava! Take control of your credit today. Download the Ava app, and when you join using MY promo code CONNECT20, you’ll get 20% off your first year—monthly or annual, your choice. Nic Nac! Get Nic Nacs at https://nicnac.com/johnny and use code Johnny for 20% off, or use the store locator to find Nic Nacs near you. If you use nicotine, Nic Nac is the discreet way to do it. Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/CONNECT Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction: Keys to Cartel Life 01:36 Meet El Diablo: Cartel Insider 05:17 El Diablo's Early Days & Entry 13:27 The Art of Moving Up & Staying Out 16:59 This Episode Is Sponsored By Ava! 18:28 Building U.S. Networks & Customer Bases 31:59 This Episode Is Sponsored By Nic Nac! 33:07 Cartel Logistics: From Colombia to U.S. 40:19 Cartel Money Flows & Laundering 46:09 The Importance of Laying Low 47:00 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims! 48:51 Map of Cartel Influence in the U.S. 51:36 Cartel Loyalty & the Rise of Snitching 59:40 Fentanyl, Meth & Shifting Drug Markets 01:04:59 Profits, Losses & Realities of the Game 01:05:59 Retirement: Leaving the Cartel Safely 01:10:00 Reflections: Warnings & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former drug kingpin George Day was sentenced to one of the harshest punishments imaginable: life in federal prison plus 90 years. What followed was nearly two decades inside some of the toughest federal prisons in America — fighting appeals, navigating prison politics, and trying to survive a sentence that was supposed to mean he would die behind bars. In this episode, George tells the unbelievable story of his time inside the federal system after being convicted in a controversial case built largely on witness testimony rather than physical evidence. Despite multiple trials and legal battles, he was ultimately convicted and given a life sentence plus additional decades, sending him deep into the federal prison system. Behind bars, George faced the brutal reality of a life sentence — violent prison yards, powerful inmates, and the mental weight of knowing he might never see freedom again. At one point he describes himself as a “dead man walking,” preparing for the possibility that prison would be where his life ended. But George refused to give up. While incarcerated, he continued fighting his case, studying the law, filing appeals, and working through the courts for years. Against overwhelming odds, his persistence eventually paid off. After nearly two decades in prison, his case was revisited and he ultimately received clemency in 2021 under the First Step Act, allowing him to finally walk free. In this interview, George shares: • What it’s like to receive life plus 90 years in federal court • The psychological toll of serving a life sentence • The dangerous reality of federal prison yards • How inmates survive when they know they may never get out • Fighting appeals from behind bars for nearly two decades • The legal battle that eventually led to his release • The moment he learned he was finally going home This is the story of a man who went from facing life behind bars to walking out of prison nearly 20 years later. A raw, firsthand look at the federal prison system, long sentences, and the fight for freedom. If you missed Part 1 you can watch it here: https://youtu.be/3BcefonEOzs Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Opening, Recap & George's Prison Time 03:00 George Day's Drug Empire & DC Operations 08:00 Retirement, Passing on the Connect, and Betrayals 21:00 Under Surveillance: Arrests, Planted Evidence & The Indictment 37:00 Indictment Details, Federal Charges & Courtroom Battles 46:00 Being Tried Multiple Times—Hung Juries and Sentencing 56:00 Adapting to Life in Federal Prison 01:00:00 Prison Hustles: Bringing in Contraband & The Heroin Game 01:13:00 Chaos, Friends & Enemies on the Yard 01:23:00 Legal Battles: Studying Law & Fighting the Case 01:35:00 Cracking the Case: Bank Statements & Exculpatory Evidence 01:48:00 Landmark Motions, Sentence Vacated & Road to Release 02:06:00 Winning Clemency: Resentencing & Final Freedom 02:18:00 Returning to Society, Legacy & Helping Others 02:22:00 George's Lawsuit, Lessons & Shoutouts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny sits down with Tim Griesheimer to hear one of the wildest crime stories to ever come out of Texas. What started as a teenager running burglaries quickly turned into a seven-year journey through some of the toughest prisons in the state. Along the way, Tim navigated race politics, brutal jail fights, and the chaos of prison life — eventually becoming a shot caller for the 59 Bounty Hunter Bloods despite being a white inmate. In this episode, Tim breaks down how he got caught up in burglaries as a teenager, what really happens inside Texas county jails, and the brutal moment he had to stand up for himself his first night locked up. From small-town crime to prison survival, his story shows how quickly a reckless life can spiral — and the crazy situations that come with it. This is a raw, unfiltered look at prison politics, street crime, and the reality of doing time in Texas. In this episode: -Growing up around crime and getting pulled into burglaries as a teenager -The arrest that led to seven years in the Texas prison system -Breaking into houses to steal guns in rural Texas -Getting betrayed by someone in his own circle -His first night in county jail and the brutal fight that followed -How race politics and gangs operate inside prison -Becoming affiliated with the 59 Bounty Hunter Bloods Go Support Tim! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bykriminalkustoms/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following Cash App! 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. Discounts and promotions provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. HelloFresh! Go to https://hellofresh.com/connect10fm to Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.  The Wellness Company! Visit https://www.twc.health/connect to get American Made Ivermectin. Order your 6-month supply today and use code CONNECT for $30 Off + FREE shipping. USA Residents only 🇺🇸 Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Wild Introduction & Story Overview03:40 Early Life and Crime in Texas07:28 Growing Up Around Crime & First Arrests16:00 Small Town Crime & The Gun Burglaries21:04 This Episode Is Sponsored By CashApp! 22:26 Getting Caught and Facing Texas Justice32:00 County Jail, Race, and Jail Politics44:00 First Time in Prison: Arrival & Culture Shock49:45 This Episode Is Sponsored By HelloFresh 51:24 Texas Prison Politics and Gangs1:15:44 This Episode Is Sponsored By The Wellness Company 01:17:23 Life in the Prison Units & Gang Recruitment01:32:00 Fighting for Respect & Moving Between Groups01:54:00 Prison Riots & Everyday Violence02:09:50 Prison Hustles: Gambling, Contraband & Hierarchy02:25:00 Violence, Initiation, and Surviving with the Bloods02:40:00 Life in Solitary, Death Row, and Prison Economics02:57:00 Culture, Sexuality, and Survival in the Joint03:08:35 Parole, Release, and Life After Prison03:18:00 Current Life: Tattooing and Redemption03:23:30 Wrapping Up & Where to Find Tim Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From Olympic snowboarder to one of the biggest cocaine traffickers in North American history — this is the unbelievable story of Ryan Wedding. In this episode, Johnny breaks down how a privileged Canadian athlete went from chasing gold medals to running a billion-dollar cocaine empire alongside some of the most powerful cartels in the world. You’ll hear how Wedding built a massive trafficking network stretching from Colombia to Mexico, the U.S., and Canada… how his operation moved tens of tons of cocaine every year… and how a series of murders, informants, and arrests finally brought his empire crashing down. The episode also dives into the mystery surrounding his 2026 arrest — including shocking claims about a fake Instagram account, possible cooperation with authorities, and the question everyone is asking: 👉 Did he surrender… or was he secretly captured? This is one of the wildest narco stories of the modern era — a rise fueled by ambition, psychology, and perfect timing in the global drug trade. Topics covered: -Ryan Wedding’s life before crime -His rise in Canada’s drug underworld -Connections to major cartels -Billion-dollar trafficking operations -Murders linked to his organization -The investigation that took him down -Theories about his dramatic arrest This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Cheers Health! Same night out — way better morning with Cheers. For a limited time our listeners are getting 20% off their entire order by using code CONNECT at https://CheersHealth.com #Cheers #ad Mars Men! For a limited time, our listeners get 50% off FOR LIFE, Free Shipping, AND 3 Free Gifts at Mars Men at https://mengotomars.com Superpower! Head to https://superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $20 off your membership. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpod Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Ryan Wedding: The Biggest Canadian Narco 01:52 From Olympic Dreams to the Drug World 03:39 The Birth of a Drug Empire in Vancouver 05:47 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cheers Health 07:45 Rise and Fall of the Weed King 08:38 Transition Into Cocaine Smuggling 10:26 Arrest, Courtroom Drama & Prison Lessons 12:03 Support Your Testosterone With Mars Men 14:45 Model Prisoner to Drug Kingpin 16:46 Rebuilding the Network in Montreal & Cartel Connections 19:43 Take Your Health Back With Superpower 22:08 On the Run in Mexico 24:01 Wedding's Massive Cocaine Operation 26:41 Unraveling: Murders, Police Crackdowns, Digital Slips 28:58 Arrests, Betrayals & Inside Jobs 31:44 The Fall of the Wedding Organization 33:36 Final Moves & The Fake Instagram Saga 36:35 Speculation, Conspiracies & Theories 38:18 The Man Behind the Empire 40:54 What's Next for Ryan Wedding 42:44 Will Wedding Cooperate or Stand Tall? 43:02 A Story for the Ages – Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Christian Carmona grew up in Medellín’s infamous Barrio Antioquia—an area known for prostitution, gambling, and later, cocaine. In this episode, Christian tells the inside story of a Colombian cocaine dynasty that quietly expanded from Medellín to Miami… and even Portland, Oregon. Raised “Americanized” in the suburbs, Christian didn’t learn the truth about his father’s criminal enterprise until federal agents came crashing down in 1991—taking both of his parents at once. From cartel-era Miami strategies (stash houses, mules, low-profile living) to family-wide trafficking ties and the chaos of the early 90s, Christian lays out how the business really worked behind the scenes. The story gets even wilder when Christian later gets pulled back into the orbit of his father’s old associates—working at a bank where traffickers allegedly used safety deposit boxes to stash cash and kilos. A setup, a sting, and years of court delays later, Christian describes spending nearly four years incarcerated while prosecutors tried to force him to cooperate. This is a raw conversation about family, loyalty, survival, and redemption—plus how Christian found faith and wrote his book Zeal while locked up. 📚 Zeal by Christian Carmona is available now (English & Spanish). https://www.zealnovel.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Growing up in Medellín’s Barrio Antioquia 04:08 The neighborhood’s history: red-light district → narco hub 09:29 Why Miami was the move (and how mules worked) 16:11 Living “middle class” while running a cocaine operation 20:47 Why Portland, Oregon became a new market 38:08 1991 indictment & parents arrested 51:02 Bank job, safety deposit boxes, and old ties resurfacing 58:22 The setup, DEA sting, and arrest 1:10:49 Four years jailed while prosecutors pushed cooperation 1:34:19 Faith, forgiveness, and writing Zeal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this jaw-dropping episode , we sit down with George Day — one of the most prolific yet largely unknown drug kingpins in American history. Raised in Washington, DC, George was literally born into the drug trade. By age six, he was traveling across the border with his father, helping smuggle hundreds of pounds of marijuana hidden inside a Winnebago. As he grew older, his life spiraled deeper into the underworld — from trimming weed in Mexico to handling massive cash pickups and negotiating with Colombian suppliers before he was even a teenager. After his father’s sudden death, George found himself — at just 11 years old — sitting on a multimillion-dollar drug ledger, forced to navigate dangerous debts, cartel relationships, and violent street politics. What followed was the rise of a cocaine empire that eventually stretched across all 50 states… and ultimately led to a life sentence plus 90 years in federal prison. This is Part 1 of an unbelievable story about family, survival, crime, and the realities of growing up inside America’s drug economy. 👇 In this episode you’ll hear: • Smuggling weed across the border as a child • Meeting cartel figures and learning the trade firsthand • Finding millions owed after his father’s death • Negotiating with Colombian traffickers at age 11 • How the foundation of a nationwide empire was built Subscribe for Part 2 — where George reveals how his empire exploded nationwide and what led to his downfall. This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: AVA! Take control of your credit today. Download the Ava app, and when you join using MY promo code CONNECT20, you’ll get 20% off your first year—monthly or annual, your choice. HIMS! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/connect NIC NAC! Go to http://nicnac.com/johnny and use code Johnny for 20% off, or use the store locator to find Nic Nacs near you. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Growing Up in the Game 03:10 Family Roots & Father's Early Hustle 07:20 Boxing, DC Life & Father’s Construction Business 14:55 Smuggling Routes: From Jamaica to DC21:02 This Episode Is Sponsored By Ava 22:37 Business Fronts and Money Laundering 32:15 Legendary Kingpins: Rafel, George, and the Connect39:15 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims and Nic Nac 42:08 Losing His Father: The Aftermath 54:38 Thrust Into the Family Business at 11 01:03:17 Taking Over & Protecting the Operation 01:15:20 Building the Empire: The Coke Pipeline 01:35:25 Massive Operations: Real Estate & Money Moves 01:44:47 International Transport: Planes, Lanes & Corrupt Customs 01:59:08 Scaling Up: 500 Kilos, Money Laundering & Distribution 02:11:46 Retirement, 9/11, & the End of an Era 02:14:52 The Game Changes: Security Tightens 02:22:46 The Legacy, Staying Low, & Part 2 Tease Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

40 years inside the Hells Angels. Federal murder conspiracy charges. Bombings, informants, and a courtroom showdown with the U.S. government. In this raw, unfiltered interview, longtime Ventura Hells Angels leader George Christie tells the inside story of outlaw biker life — from the brotherhood and early motorcycle culture to violent club wars, federal investigations, and the high-stakes legal battles that nearly destroyed his life. He reveals what it was really like to: • Rise through the ranks of a legendary 1% motorcycle club • Survive assassination attempts and clubhouse bombings • Face multiple federal prosecutions — and beat them • Navigate informants, undercover operations, and government pressure • Witness the evolution of biker culture from brotherhood to organized crime conflicts This is a rare, firsthand account of one of America’s most controversial subcultures — told by someone who lived it for decades. Go Support George! Website: https://www.georgechristie.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/georgechristiejr/ YouTube:  @GeorgeGusChristie  Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Meet George Christie: Outlaw Legend 02:00 Early Days & Biker Culture Origins 06:00 Joining the Hell's Angels 10:00 Brotherhood, Bikes, and Old School Rules 14:00 Outlaw Clubs: From Bonding to Violence 21:00 Criminal Elements & Club Evolution 26:00 Club Wars, Prison, and Peace Efforts 33:00 Bombings, Feds, and Surviving the System 38:00 Government Tactics and Lawfare 45:00 Murder Conspiracy Case and Beating the Feds 55:00 Life After the Big Trial 01:03:00 Entrepreneurship, Fame, and More Heat 01:09:00 Running Ventura & The Power of Reputation 01:13:00 Dealing with Informants and Police 01:19:00 Courtroom Battles, Sons of Anarchy, and Pop Culture 01:29:00 Club Exit, Reflections & Writing the Story 01:34:00 Modern Times, Legacy & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode Houston legend Mike D — the man many call the original King of Lean — unpacks the true story behind codeine culture in the American South. Before “lean” was a mainstream rap flex… before double cups and purple memes… there was a street-level hustle that changed Houston forever. Mike D breaks down how promethazine with codeine went from a quiet substitute for heroin to a full-blown cultural phenomenon — influencing DJ Screw, the Screwed Up Click, and icons like Pimp C, Bun B, and Lil Wayne. What started as something passed around on the corner turned into an underground empire moving thousands of dollars a day — long before law enforcement even understood what was happening. In this interview, we cover: * How Mike D became Houston’s go-to supplier * The birth of “drank” culture inside DJ Screw’s house * The economics of the codeine black market * Street wars between Houston neighborhoods * Texas prison brutality and plantation-style incarceration * The real story behind Pimp C’s death * Addiction, droughts, and what happens when supply dries up * How music and drugs fed off each other to build a movement This isn’t just a drug story. It’s a story about culture, capitalism, addiction, loyalty, betrayal — and how one underground market reshaped Southern hip-hop forever. From Astroworld fights to state prison bids… from Mercedes at 16 to moving cases of syrup… Mike D tells it all. Go Support Mike! YouTube:  @1on1wMikeDpodcast  Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introduction & Mike D's Beginnings 01:20 Early Hustle, Music & Street Life 07:16 Houston's Hood Culture & Neighborhood Conflicts 17:51 Inside State Prison and Houston's Rap Legends 19:35 This Episode Is Sponsored By CashApp 21:12 Pimp C, UGK & Houston's Musical Roots 27:47 The Origins of Lean & Houston's Drug Culture 32:12 Spreading Lean Culture, The Detail Shop, and DJ Screw 38:42 This Episode Is Sponsored By Betterhelp 39:52 The Screw House, Houston Rap Scene & Lean Epidemic 45:50 Market Growth, Addiction & Codeine Business Expands 52:44 Scarcity, Turf Wars & Million Dollar Moves 59:42 The California Connection & Smuggling Lean 01:10:32 Law Enforcement, Risks, and Hustle Tactics 01:17:12 Market Collapse, Addiction, and the Opioid Shift 01:29:30 The Bust, Downfall & Lessons from the Game 01:42:43 Legacy, Chopped & Screwed, and the Codeine Cowboy 01:46:42 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Mike D Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this raw and unforgettable episode, Virginia street legend Pretty Tony sits down to tell his life story — from being introduced to crack at a young age, to becoming one of the most prolific cocaine cooks in Virginia history, to growing up alongside future rap superstars like Pharrell and the Clipse. Pretty Tony breaks down how he perfected the infamous “mix” that made him the go-to hood chemist, what it was like cooking bricks in kitchens for kingpin-level dealers, and how violence, robberies, torture, and street politics shaped his reality as a teenager. He also shares near-death experiences, including being shot in the face, wild encounters with rip crews, and seeing close friends and family fall to the game. This episode dives deep into: -Learning to cook crack at a young age -Becoming the neighborhood “hood chef” -Growing up with Pharrell, Pusha T, and Malice -Virginia’s hidden kingpin era -Drug droughts, cartel-style tactics, and street economics -Surviving shootouts, robberies, and betrayal A brutally honest look at the streets, the music, and the thin line between fame and prison. Go Support Tony! Book: https://a.co/d/036MGUqH Merch: https://shop.app/m/w53xak0gbe 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! Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://rocketmoney.com/connect Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 From the Trap House: Pretty Tony's Origins 06:35 Family Ties & Street Influence 13:33 Virginia’s Crack Era: The Rise of the Street Game 21:05 This Episode Is Sponsored By PrizePicks 22:01 Family, Cousins, and Murderers 32:39 The Art of Cooking: Becoming the Hood Chef 40:03 Mastering the Mix: Cracking the Recipe 45:00 The Music Connection 47:24 This Episode Is Sponsored By Rocket Money 48:33 Links to Pharrell, Clipse, and the Scene 53:32 Hustling & Robbery Crews – The Risk and Respect 01:03:21 Rising Profits and Street Networking 01:16:31 High Stakes: Plug Connections & Expanding Operations 01:31:22 Caught in the Crosshairs: The Deadly Setup 01:46:09 Surviving the Hit: Aftermath and Transformation 01:55:00 Getting Out the Game & The Virginia Scene 02:01:47 Legacies, The Music Stardom, and Moving On 02:04:27 Reflecting on Regret, Survival & The Future Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gary Dodson — better known as “Bumper” — tells the uncensored story of his transformation from a violent white supremacist skinhead and federal prison gang member to a man who ultimately walked away from hate and extremism. Raised in a chaotic, drug-filled household in rural California, Bumper gravitated toward gangs, violence, and racist ideology at a young age. What began as rebellion turned into full-blown immersion in neo-Nazi skinhead culture, leading to robberies, stabbings, riots, and eventually a federal hate-crime and arson case tied to Molotov cocktails. Bumper spent over a decade inside some of the most dangerous level-four federal prisons in the United States, including USP McCreary and USP Victorville, where racial politics, stabbings, and brutal “smash-outs” were a daily reality. In this interview, he breaks down: • How he was recruited into the skinhead movement • The inner politics of white supremacist prison gangs • The psychology behind hate, identity, and belonging • What daily life is really like in violent federal penitentiaries • How he slowly abandoned racist ideology • What finally made him choose a different path This is a raw, unfiltered look inside extremist subcultures, prison survival, and the possibility of change. Go Support Gary! TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garydodson7 Podcast: @YardDownProductions This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Superpower! Head to Superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $20 off your membership. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpod 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 today. Download the Ava app, and when you join using MY promo code CONNECT20, you’ll get 20% off your first year—monthly or annual, your choice. 00:00 Bumper's Violent Origins and Early Life 06:00 Growing Up in Racist Small-Town California 12:00 Troubled Childhood and Family Chaos 14:49 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 18:04 First Criminal Experiences & Juvenile Hall 22:00 Introduction to Gang Life and Becoming a Skinhead 32:00 The Skinhead Subculture: Beliefs and Identity 33:24 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 35:57 Life of Crime: Robbery, Fights, and Violence 51:00 First Prison Stint: Rules, Riots, and Violence 52:12 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 54:05 Reentry to Society, Skinhead Crew, and Ongoing Crime 01:13:00 Federal Hate Crime Case: From State to Feds 01:23:00 Violence, Betrayals, and Prison Politics 01:33:00 Federal Time: Maximum Security, Survival, and Chaos 01:42:00 Addiction, Hustles, and Race Dynamics Behind Bars 01:50:00 The Reality of Violence in Prison Life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Pimpin Ken, a former high-level pimp from Chicago and Milwaukee, breaks down the psychology, power dynamics, and realities of the pimping game during its peak in the 1970s–1990s. Ken speaks candidly about how he entered the life as a teenager, the culture of pimping that existed at the time, and how manipulation, control, and desensitization became central to survival. He explains the difference between street-level track work and higher-end strip club and VIP hustles, detailing how money was really made — and why most people misunderstand the game entirely. This interview also dives deep into: -The psychology behind control, power, and influence -How pimping was normalized in certain eras and communities -The role of trauma, abandonment, and emotional conditioning -Why he avoided violence and relied on manipulation instead -The evolution from street hustling to sophisticated financial setups -His thoughts on relationships, marriage, masculinity, and power -How prison, reading, and reflection changed his perspective This is not a glamorization — it’s a firsthand account of a brutal system, told by someone who lived it and survived it. Support Ken Books: https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/PimpinKen7?srsltid=AfmBOoocrftoIFbUynb_2YpRlVnI7TyfLbkZk6L55Hq6d821w17fi1K5 Audio Book: https://www.audible.com/pd/Pimpology-Audiobook/B0196WKYU8?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp Hip Hop Fraternity: https://www.pimpinken.net/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: The Wellness Company! Power up with RECHARGE! Click https://twc.health/connect and use code CONNECT for 10% Off + Free Shipping on every order 🇺🇸. Rocket Money! Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://rocketmoney.com/connect Cash App! Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/ #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. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Introducing Pimping Ken & His Legacy 02:18 Origins: Hustling in Chicago 06:01 Juvenile Crime & Early Lessons 09:08 Transition to Milwaukee & First Schemes 13:16 Entering the Pimp Game 16:46 The Milwaukee Pimping Culture 20:25 Psychological of Pimping 21:24 This Episode Is Sponsored By The Wellness Company 22:58 Breaking Tricks – The Strip Club Game 28:39 How Pimping & Payments Really Work 33:01 Scaling Up: From Pimping to Business 38:42 Managing Multiple Women 39:48 Manage YOUR Money With Rocket Money 41:27 Pimping, Power & Mind Games 49:54 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 51:22 From The Streets to Legendary Status 56:15 Trauma, Environment & Why People Pimp 01:02:03 Book Deals, Rap Fame & Legal Hustle 01:10:54 Major Deals, Royalties & Real Business 01:17:41 Education, Self-Help & Writing Approach 01:26:01 Life After Pimping – Giving Back 01:32:31 Fatherhood, Relationships & Change 01:38:46 Financial Success: Pimp Game vs. Legal Life 01:44:00 Stepping Into Mainstream Business & Media 01:48:02 Building the Hip-Hop Fraternity & Future Plans 01:50:02 Final Reflections & Where to Find Ken Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, a former drug trafficker "Fernando" breaks down how crystal meth from Mexico’s most violent region flooded small-town America — and how he lived at the center of it. Raised in a multi-generation trafficking family tied to Michoacán, Fernando reveals how meth labs in Mexico, tight-knit immigrant networks, and overlooked U.S. towns created one of the most devastating drug pipelines in modern history. From burying cash in the ground to moving hundreds of pounds before age 20, this is an unfiltered look at the business, culture, and consequences of the meth trade. Fernando discusses: -Why Michoacán became the epicenter of crystal meth -How cartel families expand into small U.S. towns -The economics of meth vs cocaine -Gambling, narco culture, and “front” businesses -How federal cases are quietly built for years -Life inside federal prison and the cost to family -Why leaving the game is harder than entering it This episode is raw, detailed, and brutally honest — a firsthand account of how an entire system operates in plain sight. This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: The Wellness Company! Visit twc.health/connect to get American Made Ivermectin. Order your 6-month supply today and use code CONNECT for $30 Off + FREE shipping. USA Residents only 🇺🇸 Ava! Take control of your credit today. Download the Ava app , and when you join using MY promo code CONNECT20, you’ll get 20% off your first year—monthly or annual, your choice. Betterhelp! You can’t step into a lighter version of yourself without leaving behind what’s been weighing you down. Therapy can help you clear space. Sign up and get 10% off at https://betterhelp.com/connect. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 How Michoacán Meth Changed Everything 02:14 Meet Fernando: Family History in Trafficking 07:11 Michoacán's Cartel Culture and Drug Routes 10:49 Growing Up in a Narco Family in the US 15:36 This Episode Is Sponsored By The Wellness Company 17:15 Why Michoacanos Move to the US Drug Market 24:08 Volleyball, Gambling & Community: The Social Side 30:09 This Episode Is Sponsored By Ava 32:24 Drug Dealing, Customers, and Cutting Product 42:09 Transitioning from Cocaine to Meth 47:41This Episode Is Sponsored By Betterhelp 49:04 How the Meth Market Works 53:19 Cooking, Stretching, and Selling Meth 01:00:13 Family Roles, Buried Money, and Prison 01:10:05 Life in Prison and Staying Connected 01:21:03 Getting Busted & Prosecuted 01:31:36 Culture, Resourcefulness, and Prison Life 01:41:00 Reflections, The Present & Trying to Go Legit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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