
About this episode
The episode explores the story of Carlos 'The Codfather' Rafael, a fishing tycoon arrested in a sting operation, examining his complex identity as a potential folk hero or a criminal.
A fishing tycoon is arrested in an elaborate sting operation, but claims he’s the real hero fighting back against an overbearing state. So who is Carlos “The Codfather” Rafael really – a folk hero, a crook, a righteous rebel, or a selfish conman? This week we’re sharing the first episode from “Catching The Codfather,” the third season of GBH’s hit podcast The Big Dig. It’s a series about fishing regulations disguised as a true crime caper unlike any you’ve heard before. Produced by Ian Coss and Isabel Hibbard. To hear the rest of the series, subscribe to The Big Dig wherever you get your podcasts. SUPPORT Outside/In is made possible with listener support. Click here to become a sustaining member of Outside/In. Follow Outside/In on Instagram or join our private discussion group on Facebook. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Topics covered
- fishing
- true crime
- regulations
- tycoon
Keywords
- Codfather
- Carlos Rafael
- sting operation
- fishing regulations
Mentioned in this episode
Products: The Big Dig
Books & works: Catching the Codfather, The Big Dig
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