The Connect- with Johnny Mitchell

Epizode

• 
  Diddy’s Bad Boy Rapper Got Away With Murder For 17 Years — Then Confessed 20.09.2026 2h 29min

  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’s Fentanyl Epidemic Is Worse Than You Think 16.09.2026 39min

  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
• 
  The White Crack Kingpin Who Ran An All-Black Drug Crew 13.09.2026 2h 32min

  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
• 
  Is Trump Covering Up Melania’s Connection To Jeffrey Epstein? 09.09.2026 2h 4min

  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
• 
  Inside The New Jersey Mafia That Inspired The Sopranos 06.09.2026 2h 37min

  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. Intervention In Mexico Become America’s Next Vietnam? 02.09.2026 1h 42min

  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
• 
  How The Sinaloa Cartel Moves Cocaine Across America 30.08.2026 2h 18min

  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
• 
  How San Francisco Became A Haven For The Fentanyl Trade 26.08.2026 2h 51min

  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
• 
  How a Mormon Kid From Texas Became a Mexican Cartel Sicario 23.08.2026 1h 46min

  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
• 
  The Sinaloa Cartel Is Losing Control Of It's Own Territory 19.08.2026 1h 21min

  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
• 
  Baltimore Drug Kingpin Reveals Making Millions Selling Heroin For The Mafia 16.08.2026 1h 34min

  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’s Next Governor Declares WAR On AIPAC, Mass Surveillance & AI Data Centers 12.08.2026 1h 29min

  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
• 
  How A Teenage Drug Kingpin Built A Meth Empire at 16 09.08.2026 2h 4min

  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
• 
  Ex-Cop Sentenced to 20 Years—Then Forced to Fight for His Life in Prison 05.08.2026 2h 22min

  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 Marlo Stanfield From "The Wire" Breaks His Silence 02.08.2026 1h 31min

  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
• 
  How An Abuse Victim Took The Law Into His Own Hands... 29.07.2026 1h 55min

  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
• 
  Gang Leader Exposes the Dark Truth About Texas Prisons 26.07.2026 2h 41min

  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 U.S.-Israeli Military Merger & The A.I. Surveillance State 22.07.2026 1h 3min

  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
• 
  How One Drug Smuggler Shipped MILLIONS in Marijuana Through UPS 19.07.2026 2h 40min

  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 Reveals How He Built A Prison Empire 12.07.2026 2h 41min

  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