Podcasts Arts Performing Arts Snap Judgment The Christmas Tree Mafia

The Christmas Tree Mafia

Published: Dec. 16, 2021, 8 a.m.

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Scott Lechner is the king of Christmas trees in Manhattan, nicknamed the \\u201cPontiff of Soho.\\u201d But when his business runs afoul of the mob, he gets an offer that he can\\u2019t refuse. And a covert operative is assigned to extract a high-level target from Russia, and it\'s about to ruin his holiday plans.

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STORIES

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The Christmas Tree Mafia

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Scott Lechner is the king of Christmas trees in Manhattan, nicknamed the \\u201cPontiff of Soho.\\u201d But when his business runs afoul of the mob, he gets an offer that he can\\u2019t refuse. The crazy true story of the New York Christmas tree industry, full of turf wars, karate fights, and the mafia.

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This story contains explicit language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

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This story is dedicated to the memory of Scott Lechner, the pontiff of Soho and the emperor of New York city treemen. Thanks as well to Russ and Little Scott.

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Produced by Ilana Strauss, John Fecile & Annie Nguyen

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Original score by Renzo Gorrio

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Secrets in Siberia

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Mike Ramsdell is a covert operative for the federal government. He\\u2019s assigned to capture and extract a high level target from Russia, but the mission goes horribly wrong.

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Find Mike\\u2019s book here.

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Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Renzo Gorrio

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Artwork by Teo Ducot

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Season 12 - Episode 50

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