

#1576 - Mariana van Zeller
Dec 8, 2020
Mariana van Zeller, an award-winning journalist known for her gripping work on National Geographic's Trafficked, delves into the dark world of black markets. She shares harrowing tales from the cocaine trade and the cultural significance of coca in the Andes. Discussing the complexities of drug addiction and the evolving cannabis market, Mariana critiques past drug policies and advocates for more compassionate approaches. The dangers of gun trafficking and the grim tiger bone trade unfold through her investigative lens, revealing a tangled web of crime and survival.
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Early Podcast Guest
- Joe Rogan remembers being impressed by Mariana van Zeller's "OxyContin Express" piece.
- He considered her one of the first guests he wanted on his podcast.
Importance of Investigative Journalism
- Mariana van Zeller believes investigative journalism is crucial for understanding black markets.
- She emphasizes the importance of connecting with people involved to understand their motivations.
Motivations in Black Markets
- Many individuals involved in black markets are motivated by similar desires as anyone else.
- These include happiness, opportunity, and achieving dreams, not just greed.