Matthew Cox | Inside True Crime Podcast

In this engaging conversation, Ellis Jones, a writer and musician with a compelling life story, shares the harrowing experiences of his childhood and time in a notorious Jamaican youth program. He recounts the shocking realities of life in Tranquility Bay and the abusive systems behind troubled teen programs. Ellis discusses surviving harsh conditions, exploiting system loopholes for escape, and his journey into adulthood filled with challenges and creativity. He also reveals how he turned these experiences into a writing career under his pen name, offering insights into his artistic process and the impact of his past.

Andrew Levinson, a serial entrepreneur known for his innovative vending machines, shares the jaw-dropping story of his $140M vending empire and its eventual collapse. He discusses the chaos surrounding a massive Red Bull scam, including bizarre client anecdotes and the ethical dilemmas faced in prison. Andrew dives deep into the challenges of scaling a business, the legal battles that followed, and the intense repercussions of his actions. Their candid debate on snitching and justice system flaws adds a compelling twist to this cautionary tale.

Steven Dominguez, a former correction officer and author, reveals his shocking transformation from a dedicated employee to a criminal caught in a DEA sting. He candidly describes the allure of contraband smuggling inside Rikers Island, detailing methods to introduce goods and the high demand for items like tobacco. Steven shares his arrest experience, legal battles, and subsequent prison time, reflecting on the guilt and lessons learned. His story sheds light on the broader issues of prison corruption and the urgent need for reforms.

Celeste Yvonne Wells, a former pickpocket and drug trafficker from Miami, shares her gripping journey from childhood theft to orchestrating a criminal empire. She reveals the challenges she faced growing up, her expertise in pickpocketing techniques, and how she expanded her operations across state lines. Celeste discusses her experiences in federal prison and the barriers she encountered upon release. Now an author and advocate, she aims to help others through community projects, including plans for a safe house for women.

Bob details his adventurous journey from teenage marijuana smuggling to navigating Wall Street's dot-com bubble. He shares wild tales of international smuggling operations, close calls with law enforcement, and the clever ways he moved cash undetected. Transitioning from crime to cannabis, he discusses the impact of legalization on his business, innovative strategies for THCA sales, and the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids. With a mix of entrepreneurial spirit and caution, Bob reflects on his evolving ventures in an ever-changing legal landscape.

A former scammer, Flame, shares his astonishing journey through the credit fraud world, detailing clever tactics he employed against banks. He reveals how working in debt collection gave him insider knowledge and how sneaking into underwriting conferences expanded his expertise. From identity theft attempts to manipulating IRS transcripts, Flame's stories are both shocking and fascinating. He also discusses his close calls with bank staff and the strategies he used to stay one step ahead while laundering card charges.

Shaun Attwood, a former stock-market millionaire turned ecstasy distributor, shares his wild journey from England to the chaotic drug scene of Arizona. He reveals how a friendship with Wildman spiraled into violence and smuggling operations. Intriguing tales of dangerous partners emerge, including connections to Sammy The Bull Gravano and issues with informants. Shaun vividly recounts the shocking brutality of Maricopa Jail, painting a harrowing picture of life behind bars. A gripping story of crime, consequences, and survival unfolds!

AG Gregoroff, a former county-jail inmate, shares his incredible journey from a chaotic upbringing in San Diego to becoming the entrepreneur behind Toehold flip-flops. He discusses the harsh realities of prison life, including racial segregation and survival strategies. AG reflects on his path through odd jobs, military contracting, and discovering leatherwork. He also critiques current prison influencers, emphasizing authenticity. With a focus on craftsmanship and innovative marketing, he reveals how his past shaped his business mindset.

Tom Simon, a former FBI agent and private investigator, shares thrilling insights into infamous fraud cases from his career. He discusses a wiretap case revealing bribery among Chicago inspectors and a massive real estate scam in Belize. Tom dives into the world of organized crime, featuring a mail theft ring and a Ponzi scheme led by 'Teddy Miller.' He also recounts bizarre acts like ATM bombings and a teacher involved in animal torture. Prepare for riveting stories filled with crime, deception, and the pursuit of justice!

Shamir Carrillo, a former street criminal turned entrepreneur, shares his riveting life story filled with theft, gang involvement, and reform. He vividly describes his early days of stealing to support his family and the drastic measures he took, including planning bank robberies with notes. Shamir recounts the tense moments of being hunted by rival gangs and choosing prison as a safer option. Now focused on education and trading futures, he passionately urges young people to learn from his mistakes and pursue legitimate paths.