In this episode of pplpod, we dive deep into the gripping true crime story of Ricky Donnell Ross, notoriously known as "Freeway Ricky Ross". Join us as we explore how a teenager whose illiteracy cost him a college tennis scholarship went on to build one of the most massive drug empires in 1980s Los Angeles.

At the height of the crack cocaine epidemic, Ross’s distribution network spanned 42 cities, grossing an estimated $900 million with nearly $300 million in profit. We break down the mechanics of his notorious syndicate, from his early days buying grams from an upholstery teacher to purchasing Nicaraguan cocaine at wholesale prices through Danilo Blandón. We also unpack the explosive allegations brought to light by journalist Gary Webb in his Dark Alliance series, which linked Ross’s supply chain  ...