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#275. Ibiza Promoter Kidnapped By London’s Criminal Underworld - Trace Harris

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January 29, 2025

TLDR: Ex-club promoter Trace Harris shares his experience being set up in a big ecstasy deal, including stories from Fabric, Turnmills, Ministry of Sound, Amnesia & DC10, and his personal journey after encountering Ayahuasca. He also discusses connections with boxer Nigel Benn and gangster Dave Courtney.

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In the latest episode of Eventful Lives Podcast (#275), host Dodge Woodall sits down with club promoter Trace Harris, who opens up about his tumultuous career and the harrowing experiences that shaped his life. From his rise in the London nightlife scene to his frightening entanglement with London's criminal underworld, Trace shares a captivating narrative filled with insights and life lessons.

Early Beginnings in the Nightlife Scene

Trace Harris, who has been at the forefront of club promotion for decades, started his career with the birth of Smarty Party in London. Key points from Trace’s early career include:

  • First Ibiza Experience: Trace recounts his first trip to Ibiza, playing at the iconic Privilege nightclub, which marked the start of his love affair with the island.
  • Rise of Smarty Party: Launched in 1994, Smarty Party quickly became a hit, showcasing Trace's knack for foreshadowing trends in electronic music.
  • Ministry of Sound: His relationship with notable clubs like Ministry of Sound and Fabric not only solidified his reputation but also launched his career internationally.

The Dark Side of Promoting

As Trace’s career flourished, so did the dangers associated with club promotion. He discusses:

  • The Ecstasy Drug Deal Set-Up: Trace shares a harrowing experience where he was manipulated into a drug deal, which resulted in a near-fatal encounter with London’s criminals.
  • Kidnapping Incident: After being set up, he was gassed and robbed, facing violence that changed his perception of the club scene forever. This moment served as a wake-up call, leading him to reflect on his lifestyle choices.

Meeting Dave Courtney and Life Lessons Learned

While navigating the criminal elements, Trace found an unexpected ally in notorious figure Dave Courtney:

  • Friendship Dynamics: The relationship offered a glimpse into the complexities and paradox of loyalty and friendship in high-stakes environments.
  • Support During Crisis: Dave helped Trace recover from his traumatic ordeal, offering insights into resilience and survival in the harsh underbelly of promotions.

Transformation Through Ayahuasca

One of the most profound shifts in Trace's life came from his experiences with ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic brew:

  • Healing and Reflection: He describes attending ayahuasca ceremonies, which led him to confront the grief of losing his mother, and ultimately helped him gain clarity about his life's direction.
  • Impact on Relationships: These experiences also deepened his connection with family, especially after he learned to approach challenges with a softer mindset.

Current Life and Future Aspirations

In the aftermath of his chaotic past, Trace has found balance in his life:

  • Emotional and Financial Stability: After overcoming significant adversities, including bankruptcy, Trace emphasizes the importance of mental well-being and emotional resilience.
  • New Chapters: Now living in Ibiza, he cherishes his time with his young son, experiencing a fresh perspective on fatherhood and legacy.

Key Takeaways

Listeners can garner vital insights from Trace's narrative:

  • The Importance of Choices: Every decision can lead to transformative consequences, both positive and negative.
  • Resilience: Overcoming dark moments can pave the way to new beginnings, emphasizing the need for personal growth.
  • Self-Discovery: Tools like ayahuasca can provide valuable introspection, helping individuals confront their past and find peace.

Trace Harris's story is not just about the party scene; it's a testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of accountability in one’s life journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intricate ties between nightlife, personal struggle, and the pursuit of a meaningful existence.

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