The Connect- with Johnny Mitchell

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