Is the war on drugs really about justice—or something else entirely? In this episode, host Marcus Arredondo welcomes former DEA agent Angus Forbes, who pulls back the curtain on high-stakes international drug busts, undercover operations, and the corruption that few dare to discuss. From DEA raids in Thailand to the dark realities of law enforcement politics, Angus shares stories that defy popular narratives and expose the truth behind the headlines. But his journey didn’t end with the DEA. Now, he’s using AI technology to revolutionize crime investigations—and his insights could change how we think about law enforcement forever.

Angus Forbes is a former Marine and DEA agent turned AI entrepreneur. With years of experience in high-risk law enforcement operations, including global drug enforcement, he witnessed the challenges of crime investigation firsthand. After retiring, he co-founded Ethos, an AI-driven company revolutionizing law enforcement by streamlining investigations and data analysis. His work combines military precision, real-world experience, and cutting-edge technology to improve public safety. Beyond his career, his biggest motivation is ensuring a secure future for his twin sons.

Episode highlights:

[0:00] Intro
[2:11] A DEA raid in Thailand
[5:27] Corruption in international drug enforcement
[12:41] The harsh realities of drug smuggling
[18:02] Acting on instinct Vs. Following protocol
[21:31] Misconceptions about the DEA
[29:22] The U.S.’s addiction to painkillers
[32:50] The Naval Academy and U.S. citizenship
[44:36] What could unite the U.S. again?
[48:08] The birth of Ethos AI
[56:44] Military discipline in the business world
[1:02:01] Redefining success & family priorities
[1:04:10] Outro