In this engaging conversation, former smuggler Steve Kocis shares his thrilling journey from cigar smuggling to running human trafficking operations. He recounts clever tactics to evade the Coast Guard, including normalizing suspicious boats. Steve reveals the grim realities of his illegal trade, political asylum routes for Georgians, and the intricate networks with the Russian mob. After his arrest, he talks about life in prison and the surprising strategies he used to secure a reduced sentence. Now a freelance captain, Steve reflects on risk, priorities, and life post-crime.