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Sit Down with Michael Franzese

Author: Michael Franzese

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From a high-ranking member of the Colombo crime family to a man transformed by faith, Michael Franzese shares his extraordinary journey like no one else can. In Sit Downs with Michael Franzese, Michael dives into raw, unfiltered stories from his life in the mob, his path to redemption, and the lessons he’s learned about faith, family, and overcoming life’s struggles. With gripping interviews and practical insights, this podcast will inspire, challenge, and entertain

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🍷 Have you tried my wine yet?: https://yt.franzesewine.com/ 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ Having lived through government persecution myself, I’ve never seen anything like what they did to the Trump family. Eric Trump reveals the explosive truth behind “Under Siege” - how they weaponized the FBI, DOJ, and courts against his father while he tried to save America. I sat down with the most subpoenaed person in history to hear what they really went through. From secret server lies to assassination attempts, Eric tells me how government corruption makes street criminals look like amateurs. He had to write this book because every American needs to understand how dangerous weaponized government can become. This is the real story behind the greatest political comeback in history - and why we should all be concerned about what happened. Eric Trump and Michael Franzese: When The Government Attacks Your Family (Exclusive Sitdown) 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb 00:00 - Introduction: They wanted to destroy us 01:10 - Welcome to my sitdown 01:56 - Eric's explosive book 'Under Siege' 02:18 - My family went through hell too 03:12 - Eric did nothing wrong 04:46 - Donald's foreword about Eric 05:36 - Trump family under siege since 2016 07:03 - Election night victory feelings 09:21 - Never seen attacks like this 10:12 - Government worse than street criminals 12:24 - Biden family evidence vs Trump persecution 16:04 - Hunter's shell companies exposed 18:15 - Government weaponization explained 21:26 - God saved America through Trump 23:32 - Demanding accountability, not revenge 26:22 - Butler assassination attempt questions 28:07 - Government had voices and money 31:04 - NBC turned on us immediately 33:29 - Weaponized from day one 36:11 - Greatest comeback in history 41:18 - Middle East peace achievement 43:46 - Does Trump ever sleep? 48:01 - Anti-semitic? His daughter's Jewish 51:17 - Would Eric run for politics? 54:05 - Why I wrote this book 57:32 - Legitimate family vs street criminals 1:01:05 - Fight fight fight wine bottle gift 1:02:18 - Conclusion: God is in their corner Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
🍷 Have you tried my wine yet?: https://yt.franzesewine.com/ 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ I’m breaking down the supposed “most lucrative mob businesses”—from prohibition to gas scams and gambling. But don’t buy the numbers you hear in the media. I’ve seen them throw billions around, but do they actually know? Not a chance. I lived the life, I know what these rackets were really about: opportunity, not daily assignment. Informants exaggerate, media estimates are wild guesses. I’ll show you the real reason some rackets built the Mafia. Learn what was myth, what was true, and how I made it big. Trust me, nobody kept ledgers. This isn’t Hollywood, this is straight talk on the business of organized crime—what worked, what didn’t, and what outsiders will never get right. Ex-Mob Boss REVEALS The Top 10 Mob Money Scams 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb 00:00 - Introduction: Mafia Businesses 01:09 - The burning Question: What’s the most lucrative mob racket? 01:56 - Top 10 mob “businesses” ranked 02:14 - The only mob rule: no drugs 03:36 - All other rackets: wide open 04:36 - 10 most profitable mob rackets 05:46 - Cargo hijacking: how it really worked 07:17 - Restaurant and bar extortion 08:48 - Bid rigging & fraud: real numbers? 10:46 - Stock fraud, inside jobs 12:21 - Loan sharking: how big was it? 14:06 - Union scams & Las Vegas money 17:14 - Gas tax scam truth & my peak earnings 18:44 - Mob drug profits—pure myth 20:33 - Mob bookmaking & gambling 21:28 - Prohibition: birth of the Mafia 23:15 - Why you can’t trust “mob numbers” 24:29 - Record keeping, street rules, how it really worked 26:20 - Final thoughts on the myths Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Season 3 of the hit mob show “Tulsa King” is finally out, and i’m answering the burning questions only someone who lived the life can. Is Stallone convincing as a mob boss? Is it even possible for a mobster to go into a random city like Tulsa Oklahoma and set up shop there? Do I even like the show? I break down what’s realistic vs Hollywood fiction in this hit series. Having lived the life for decades, I reveal whether Dwight Manfredi’s character rings true or if it’s just entertainment. From his prison release to taking over Tulsa, I analyze the authenticity of Dwight’s mob tactics and the show as a whole. Stallone reminds me of my father - but does he nail the real mob mentality? And finally, I compare Tulsa King with my all time favorite “Gotti” with Armand Assante. Does it get the mob life right? Is pure fantasy? Is Tulsa King My New Favorite Show? Former Capo’s Season 3 Review Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today I'm covering the 15 most dangerous criminals I encountered or knew about, in the world of organized crime. From the Roy DeMeo’s Gemini Twins to Murd*r Inc’s most brutal executioners, I’m ranking the deadliest mobsters who terrorized even their own kind. These aren’t Hollywood myths - I lived alongside these killers, heard their stories from my father who knew them personally, and witnessed their reputations firsthand. From Sammy Gravano’s 19 murders to Albert Anastasia’s hundred-plus killings, this insider account reveals the psychopaths who made the Mafia truly feared. Why were some mobsters afraid of their own? What made these men so dangerous that even made guys stayed clear? I break down their methods, their madness, and why most didn’t survive their own violence. This is the definitive list from someone who was actually there. Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
🍷 Blackberry Wine Is Now Available Online! : https://franzesewine.com/products/blackberry-wine 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ I’m exploring how the Jewish Mafia fundamentally shaped American organized crime through their deadly partnership with Italian families. From Murd*r Incorporated’s 1,000+ contract killings to Meyer Lansky’s alliance with Lucky Luciano, Jewish criminals became the secret army and enforcement arm of Cosa Nostra. Figures like Bugsy Siegel, Dutch Schultz, and Arnold Rothstein didn’t just operate alongside Italian mobsters - they became their most trusted hitmen and business partners. Mur*er Inc wasn’t just a Jewish operation; it was the enforcement unit for the entire National Crime Syndicate. This reveals how Jewish organized crime evolved from Prohibition bootlegging into America’s most feared contract k*lling operation, serving as muscle for Italian families who needed plausible deniability. The partnership made Jewish mobsters indispensable to Cosa Nostra operations nationwide. How Jewish Mafia Influenced American Organized Crime 00:00 - Introduction: The Jewish Mafia01:09 - Welcome to my sitdown02:00 - Jews had big impact on organized crime04:08 - Jews had big part forming this06:15 - Murd*r Incorporated enforcement arm09:11 - Lucky Luciano formed Murd*r Inc11:41 - Lucky's role in Murd*r Inc14:54 - Dutch Schultz high-profile kill*ng16:30 - Luciano went to prison17:39 - Prominent Jews in organized crime19:23 - Jews control entertainment industry20:14 - Jews founded all major studios22:24 - Jews doing street and Hollywood simultaneously23:25 - Lansky played significant role with Luciano25:06 - Toast with Franzese Wine 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
🍷 Have you tried my wine yet?: https://franzesewine.com/ 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ 🎞️ Watch Full Interview Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjoPjowKBa4 I sat down with Mike Thurston from the UK for one of the deepest mob interviews I've ever done. We went places I rarely talk about - from how i handled the stress of that life, to how I built a basement counting room in a bank to handle millions in cash, why Roy DeMeo was a serial k*ller the mob had to eliminate, and what it was really like running 350 gas stations while dodging the feds. I break down the difference between John Gotti types who love cameras versus Carlo Gambino who ran the biggest family from the shadows. Plus, I reveal why the feds put me through "diesel therapy" for 8 months and kept me in solitary for 3 years when I wouldn't cooperate. This guy flew all the way from England to ask the questions others won't. If you've been wanting real mob stories, this is as raw as it gets. Ex Mob Boss Reveals How He Handled Extreme Stress In The Mafia 00:00 - Introduction: Did I Stress? 00:47 - Welcome to The Sitdown with Mike Thurston 02:24 - Would I have been a doctor? 03:17 - Dad went away, forced to help family 04:38 - I had high stress tolerance 05:15 - Stress? What is stress? 06:30 - I miss the brotherhood 08:37 - I built a bank basement vault 09:30 - Government never found my money 11:21 - Roy DeMeo was a serial k*ller 12:44 - My father was tough 13:51 - Gotti vs Gambino leadership styles 16:28 - I sold everything before prison 18:19 - Feds tortured me for 3 years 19:38 - Freedom is the most precious thing 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I’m dropping some hard truths about human traff*cking that’ll shock you to your core. After years in organized crime, I’ve seen darkness, but nothing prepared me for these statistics. More than 80% of child traff*cking cases involve someone the victim knows - a relative, teacher, friend, or neighbor. This isn’t some distant problem - it’s happening in our neighborhoods, our schools, our families. I break down the real causes behind this epidemic, connect it to the breakdown of the nuclear family, and explain why the people claiming to care about protecting children are doing nothing but profiting from the problem. This is raw, unfiltered truth about an evil that’s destroying innocent lives while politicians play games. Every parent needs to hear this. America’s Human Trafficking Crisis EXPOSED by Former Mobster Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this candid sit-down, I tackle the immigration crisis with my partner Tony - two guys from Brooklyn offering Congress some real common sense solutions. While politicians play politics, I’m laying out the hard truths about what mass deportations will do to our economy and proposing a practical path to citizenship that actually works. From my business experience hiring immigrants to Tony’s military perspective, we break down why fingerprinting, provisional social security cards, and a 5-year path to citizenship makes more sense than tearing families apart. We also expose the real threat - Chinese spy cells operating in our country while everyone focuses on hardworking Latin Americans. Congress needs to listen because we’ve got the answers they’re too afraid to implement. Former Mobster REVEALS Why Mass Deportation Will Destroy America 00:00 - Introduction - Mass deportation will k*ll The economy 01:02 - Immigration frustration 01:28 - This is all Congress's fault 02:14 - My dear friend Tony joins 02:32 - Two guys from Brooklyn 03:14 - I've been thinking citizenship path 03:35 - Everyone gets fingerprinted first 04:13 - Five years to earn citizenship 05:27 - Best workers bar none 05:44 - No Americans want these jobs 06:05 - Everything targets Latin community 06:18 - Chinese students paying $75K 07:15 - I'm anti-China for reason 08:07 - Blindfolded in fake egg factories 09:14 - Mexico is our neighbor 10:42 - COVID created in China 11:05 - Intelligence community confirms spy cells 12:17 - I believe Trump doing his job 12:47 - Country built on immigrants 14:56 - You attract bees with honey 16:01 - 2020 election was compromised 18:25 - I believe there was fraud 20:18 - I believe in birthright citizenship 22:32 - We don't promote military path 25:24 - Mexican people are gracious 26:31 - I feel safer in Mexico 29:26 - AOC selling tacos 30:31 - I am Trump supporter 32:09 - My thoughts on North America alliance 33:43 - My dear partner and brother 39:35 - These are human beings 43:25 - Hopefully we made common sense Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
⛓️‍💥 Join The Fight For Freedom: http://freedom.michaelfranzese.com/ 🍷 Have you tried my wine yet?: https://franzesewine.com/ 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ Who K*lled Charlie Kirk? In this video, I break down the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, dissecting the evidence, the backgrounds, and the swirling conspiracy theories. I explore the alleged motivations of the shooter, the political and ideological tensions, and the possible behind-the-scenes influences involving key players and nations. I also dive into Charlie’s evolving views on Israel and the Epstein connection, shedding light on the complex power struggles at work. This is a raw, honest analysis, cutting through the noise to uncover the real story behind the headlines. If you want the facts and insight not covered elsewhere, this one’s for you. Did Israel Silence Charlie Kirk? EXPOSING the Truth Behind The Utah Attack 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb 00:00 - Government Cover-Up Theory 00:32 - Gaza Lives Concern 00:43 - Epstein Intelligence Link 00:55 - Michael's Introduction 01:14 - Charlie Kirk Murd*r Theories 04:04 - Tyler Robinson Details 08:15 - Transgender Roommate Motivation 12:45 - Extremist Group Connections 18:20 - Social Media Conspiracy Theories 21:15 - Candace Owens Pressure Claims 24:30 - Epstein Connection Deep Dive 30:15 - Kirk's Final Epstein Comments 33:00 - Israel Retaliation Statements 36:30 - Biblical Perspective on Israel 43:45 - Faith and Politics Integration 47:20 - Call for Jesus Revolution 55:15 - Prayer and Faith Conclusion Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Meet Brelinda Sullen, a fierce and compassionate principal who transformed failing schools in Alabama’s Black Belt. For over three decades, she poured her heart, soul, and personal finances into saving lives of students from broken homes, gangs, and poverty. Facing political battles and wrongful accusations, her story is one of relentless love, sacrifice, and faith against overwhelming odds. Her legacy is a powerful reminder that true leadership is about lifting others up even when the system lets you down. Watch this moving interview to witness a real-life hero who never gave up on her babies — her students — and the community she cared for deeply. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and challenged to think about what love in action really means. EXPOSED: School Board Destroys Principal Who Actually Cared About Kids Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I’m ranking the 20 greatest mob actors of all time—and some of my picks might surprise you.” I break them down into five categories: The GOAT (Greatest of All Time), Legendary, Memorable, Average, and Forgettable. These aren’t just movie reviews from some critic. I lived this life for 20 years and knew real mobsters like Joe Colombo, Fat Tony Salerno, and Chin Giganti personally. I can tell you who got it right and who was just acting. From iconic performances in classic films to recent portrayals that missed the mark completely, I’m covering actors who’ve taken on these roles over the decades. Some brought authentic energy and nailed the mannerisms. Others? Well, let’s just say they should have stuck to different genres. I’ll tell you which performances reminded me of the real guys I knew, and which ones made me cringe. Some of my choices will surprise you. Others will make perfect sense. But every ranking comes from someone who’s been there and knows the difference between authentic acting and completely faking it. Let me know where you think I got it right—and where you think I’m completely wrong. Greatest Mob Actors Of All Time Ranked by Ex-Mobster 0:00 - Introduction 1:05 - The Greatest Mob Actor Ranking Categories 5:24 - Tony Sirico (Paulie Walnuts) 6:19 - Cillian Murphy (Peaky Blinders) 8:07 - Steve Buscemi (Boardwalk Empire) 8:54 - Al Pacino (Multiple Roles) 11:38 - Michael Shannon (The Iceman) 12:36 - Michael Imperioli (The Sopranos) 14:02 - Sylvester Stallone (Tulsa King) 15:43 - Robert De Niro (Multiple Roles) 19:02 - Jack Nicholson (The Departed) 19:54 - Joe Pesci (Multiple Roles) 22:13 - Chazz Palminteri (A Bronx Tale) 24:40 - Tom Hardy (Multiple Roles) 26:51 - Ray Liotta (Goodfellas) 28:31 - James Gandolfini (The Sopranos) 30:03 - Johnny Depp (Multiple Roles) 31:44 - Marlon Brando (The Godfather) 32:48 - Paul Sorvino (Goodfellas) 33:49 - Denzel Washington (American Gangster) 35:03 - John Travolta (Gotti) 35:48 - Armand Assante (HBO's Gotti) 38:47 - Final Rankings Recap Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
🍷 Have you tried my wine yet?: https://franzesewine.com/ 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ 📖 Check out our guest's book!: https://amzn.to/4670dZf This is one of the most controversial conversations I’ve ever had—and one of the most eye-opening. Meet Tommy Robinson, the UK activist who grew up with Andrew Tate and became one of Britain’s most polarizing figures. We’re diving deep into the hidden crisis plaguing England: grooming gangs, government cover-ups, and the systematic silencing of anyone who dares speak out. Tommy walks me through his hometown transformation from one mosque to forty-five, the disturbing statistics behind decades of ignored crimes, and why he’s spent years in prison for making documentary films. From solitary confinement to d*ath threats, from being banned by Big Tech to planning massive demonstrations, Tommy reveals what it’s really like to fight an establishment that would rather protect its policies than its people. I have to admit—by the end of this conversation, I found myself agreeing with him far more than I expected. What drove this man to risk everything? What did he witness growing up that changed his life forever? And why does he believe September 13th could be Britain’s turning point? UK Journalist EXPOSES The Islamic Takeover of Britain 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb 0:00 - Introduction: Exposing Britain’s grooming gang crisis 1:10 - Who is Tommy Robinson (and connection with Tate) 6:41 - Tommy’s controversial background and motivation for activism 8:00 - Political correctness paralyzing UK institutions 9:42 - Tommy’s journalism uncovering hidden truths 10:08 - Growing patriotism and public awakening in Britain 11:32 - Britain’s loss of free speech and state repression 12:27 - Government ignoring decades of abuse by grooming gangs 13:31 - Formation and suppression of English Defense League protests 15:28 - Political motivations behind open border immigration 18:39 - London’s demographic shift and loss of English majority 20:21 - Upcoming mass protest on September 13th 25:07 - Muslim political power and control 26:22 - Shocking ab*se cases and police inaction 27:18 - Documentary series “The R*pe of Britain” overview 28:35 - Startling r*pe statistics 30:20 - Political correctness blocking public discussion 31:28 - Links between UK, US, and Canada crises 33:32 - Cultural breakdown and indoctrination of youth 34:40 - Rise of populist parties and censorship resistance 36:18 - Tommy’s detention under terrorism laws for activism 39:12 - Two-tier policing and unequal treatment of Muslims 39:42 - British flag resurgence and patriotism wave 44:38 - Tommy’s terrorism act arrest after protests 46:14 - Contrast between US free speech and UK repression 48:41 - Public court trials expose grooming gang realities 50:16 - Tommy’s prison sentence and solitary confinement 53:02 - Correlation of immigration and rising crime 56:54 - Historical failure of peaceful Islamic coexistence 57:55 - Threat to British Christian heritage 1:01:24 - Rising rebellion and public anger 1:04:31 - Christian revival and changing cultural identity 1:10:20 - Banned books and censorship 1:14:17 - September 13th free speech festival details 1:16:20 - Call for Western men to rise and defend their countries 1:22:44 - Closing support and future activism plans Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For the first time ever, I’m sitting down with two of my daughters for the most personal conversation I’ve ever had on this platform.We’re talking about what it was really like growing up with a mobster dad—the prison years, coming home, blended family dynamics, and questions I’ve never been asked before. They’re not holding back. We discuss the challenges of having half-siblings, what life was like when I was away, and they even address the elephant in the room—do I favor their youngest sister Julia? And, stick around to hear a special announcement about something exciting the girls are launching soon—something you won’t want to miss.You’ve heard my side of the story for years. Now hear it from the people who lived it with me—my own kids. This isn’t just about the mob life. It’s about family, forgiveness, and what really happens behind closed doors. Trust me—you’ve never seen this side of Michael Franzese before. My Daughters CONFRONTED Me About Being a Mobster Dad Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
🍷 Have you tried my wine yet?: https://franzesewine.com/ 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ 📖 Check out our guest's book!: https://amzn.to/425d3pH This is one of the only times I’ve ever sat down with a true insider from Chinatown’s underworld. Meet Michael Moy—once a feared Fuk-Ching enforcer, turned decorated NYPD detective. We’re pulling back the curtain on the real, hidden world of Chinese street gangs: incense-lit blood oaths, Dai Lo kingpins, $110,000-a-week gambling dens, and the brutal betrayals and shootouts you never saw in the headlines. Mike survived it all—gunfights, RICO sweeps, and the night a friend died in his arms—before risking everything to join the other side of the law. Why did he walk away? What did he see that changed everything? And what secrets is he about to reveal, straight from files that once stayed locked in NYPD evidence rooms? Face to Face with a Former Chinatown Gangster Turned NYPD Detective 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb 0:00 - Introduction: Three main gangs controlling NYC Chinatown 2:09 - Who Is Michael Moy? background in Chinatown 2:44 - Gang member to NYPD transformation story 4:00 - Interview Start: Michael Moy 5:49 - Chinese gang structure vs Italian mafia 8:35 - Gang recruitment and initiation process 10:48 - Blood ritual and loyalty oath ceremony 11:27 - Viol*nce and reputation of Chinese gangs 13:16 - Gang influence and territorial control 15:02 - Comparison with Italian mob families 15:53 - RICO Act impact on Chinese gangs 21:36 - Main businesses: gambling and protection 23:26 - Michael Moy joins Fuk-Ching gang 25:03 - Officer Steven McDonald's forgiveness story 27:07 - Taking NYPD written exam 29:45 - NYPD background investigation process 32:36 - Business partnerships with Italian associates 36:24 - Legitimate businesses vs gang activities 39:02 - Assignment to Chinatown as detective 43:06 - Viol*nt gang encounters and close calls 46:07 - 1980s NYC viol*nce and crime 47:22 - Arresting former gang associates 50:18 - Good people vs bad people discussion 53:50 - Retirement and current activities 54:14 - "Bad to Blue" book and YouTube channel 56:19 - Private platform invitation 57:01 - Closing thoughts on transformation Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
🍷 Have you tried my wine yet?: https://franzesewine.com/ 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ $40 Million Dollars. That’s how much money The Interpreter allegedly “borrowed” from Shohei Ohtani — and where does Matt Bowyer, the bookmaker, fit into this explosive story? I sit down with Matt Bowyer—the man who took millions from Ohtani’s interpreter—and he’s telling me things that’ll shock you. Was Ohtani really innocent? How did Matt not know something was wrong when an interpreter was betting millions? And why didn’t he just cut him off? This isn’t the sanitized story you heard on ESPN. This is the truth from someone who lived it—told to someone who’s been there. Matt’s facing 18 years in prison. And for the first time, he’s answering the questions everyone’s been asking but nobody’s been brave enough to ask directly. Trust me—what you think you know about this scandal is just the beginning. The real story is much more interesting. Shohei Ohtani’s Bookmaker REVEALS The $40 Million Gambling Scandal 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb 0:00 - Introduction: Ohtani and The Interperetor 2:22 - Setting up the Ohtani gambling controversy 3:26 - Matt Bowyer interview begins 4:27 - Matt's early gambling and family struggles 6:43 - From restaurant busboy to commodity trading 10:14 - Mentorship and brokerage firm success 13:03 - Buying back his family's lost home 15:17 - Building the online sports-book empire 16:48 - Payment methods and customer loyalty 18:17 - Collection stories and mob connections 24:14 - First FBI raid in 2014 25:09 - October 2023 raid with 29 agents 27:04 - Wife's loyalty through the investigation 29:25 - How the feds found him 31:00 - Vegas casinos vs. old mob operations 37:08 - Meeting Ohtani's interpreter at poker game 38:55 - First bets and wire transfers 40:41 - "Holy f***" moment with Ohtani wire 43:00 - $24 million credit limit explanation 45:23 - Interpreter's soccer betting obsession 48:12 - Where the stolen money came from 50:15 - Cooperating with federal investigation 52:05 - Athletes and gambling addiction 54:12 - His $4.6 million Super Bowl bet 56:25 - Government hypocrisy on gambling 57:31 - Facing prison and family impact Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Trump vs. Don Corleone: I See the Same Power Moves People call Trump a mob boss like it’s an insult. But after watching him handle Putin and Ukraine, I’m saying—maybe that’s exactly what we need. I’ve been in those rooms. I know what real power looks like. And when I see Trump flying to Alaska, making Putin come to him, then summoning every European leader to the White House—that’s straight out of The Godfather. Don Corleone called all five family bosses together to end a war. Trump’s doing the same thing with world leaders. The left hates this comparison, but here’s what they’re missing: Don Corleone wanted to stop the kil*ing. Trump wants to stop the kil*ing. Whether it’s ego, strategy, or genuine concern—who cares if it saves lives? You think I’m giving Trump too much credit? Fine. But I know mob tactics when I see them, and positioning nuclear subs near Russia while negotiating peace? That’s textbook intimidation with a purpose. Both men understood one thing: you negotiate from a position of strength, not weakness. You make people come to you. You control the room. And if they don’t play ball, there are consequences. Like him or hate him, Trump’s playing this like a boss. The question is—will it work? Former Mob Boss Breaks Down Trump's Godfather Strategy 0:00 - Introduction: Is Trump Using Godfather Tactics? 1:52 - The Parallels to The Godfather 2:55 - Don Corleone's peace meeting 5:22 - Trump's goal to end war 6:02 - Putin's Alaska visit significance 6:54 - Power dynamics with Putin 7:45 - Political reaction and motives 8:39 - War demands from Ukraine and Russia 9:30 - NATO leaders at White House 10:24 - Nuclear submarines power move 11:17 - Praise for Trump's handling 12:41 - Mob boss strategy analysis 14:14 - Audience call for comments 15:33 - Political division and pushback 17:10 - Global power connections 18:19 - Trump's independence from mob 20:05 - Historical mob peace talks 21:00 - Possible consequences 22:20 - Trump's negotiation approach 23:31 - Audience question 24:50 - Diplomatic power recap 26:08 - Trump as Don Corleone 28:29 - Conclusion and Closing remarks Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In one of his only english interviews, I sit down with Pablo Escobar’s most dangerous partner — Carlos Lehder, the man who revolutionized coca*ne smuggling and lived to tell the truth. This isn’t the story you saw in Narcos or read in the history books. What’s it like being called “The Henry Ford of Coca*ne”? What really happened behind the scenes of the Medellín Cartel? And how do you survive 33 years in America’s most brutal prisons — including four years in solitary confinement? In this raw conversation, Carlos opens up about his empire built on Norman’s Cay, his complex relationship with Pablo Escobar, and the moment everything came crashing down. We talk about betrayal, survival, and why he’s speaking out now at 75 years old. This isn’t just about drug smuggling — it’s about power, consequence, and the price of choosing crime over everything else. If you think you know the story of the Medellín Cartel... you’re only getting half the truth. Carlos Lehder: Partner to Pablo Escobar and The King of Smugglers (Rare Sitdown) 📰 Go to https://ground.news/mf to see what mainstream media won’t show you. Save 40% off the Ground News Vantage plan and take back control of how you stay informed. 🍷 Have you tried my wine yet?: https://franzesewine.com/ 💪🏼 Join Franzese Family: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/ 🤝 Book 1 on 1 Call With Me: https://michaelfranzese.com/book-1-on-1-call/ 🔥 Check out my store: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/ 🎙️ Michael Franzese Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Eo39qb 00:00 Introduction 01:27 Michael introduces Carlos Lehder 02:07 Prison, extradition, Narcos mention 03:26 New York upbringing 07:47 Wealth, satisfaction, regrets 10:36 How the Medellin drug trade started 13:55 Norman’s Cay and smuggling routes 16:38 George Jung partnership 20:44 Why Carlos never retired 23:19 The law finally catches up 24:24 135 years in prison—solitary life 29:23 Release, exile in Germany 32:28 Pirate analogy & amnesty 36:13 Pablo Escobar reconciliation 39:11 Lessons, book, and advice 43:54 Carlos’s new life & message 1:11:10 Michael’s closing thoughts Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
From gang member facing four years in prison to self-made multimillionaire—but that’s not even the most unbelievable part of Ryan Blair’s story. At 16, Ryan was staring down a prison sentence that would have destroyed his life. One judge’s decision changed everything. What happened next defies explanation. Ryan built and sold companies worth hundreds of millions. Private jets, stadiums full of people, everything money could buy. Then he lost it all. Friends betrayed him, lawsuits piled up, and his mother lay dying. But here’s where the story gets really interesting. What Ryan experienced—and what he witnessed happen to his own son—will challenge everything you think you know about what’s actually possible when you hit rock bottom. You need to hear this. Ex-Gang Member Reveals How He Avoided Prison and Built a $792 Million Business Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
“I’m ranking the 25 greatest mob bosses of all time—and some of you won’t like my choices.” I break them down into five categories: The GOAT (Greatest of All Time), The Big Timers, The Power Players, The Contenders, and The Show Offs. These aren’t just names from movies. I knew some of these guys personally, worked with others, and heard the real stories from people who were there. You’ll see bosses who built empires that lasted decades. Guys who had politicians and judges in their pockets. Some controlled entire cities, others made millions every week. And yeah, some were absolutely ruthless when they had to be. From Fat Tony Salerno to bosses you’ve probably never heard of but should know about—this is the real hierarchy of American organized crime. The guys who really ran things behind the scenes. Some of my choices might surprise you. Others will make perfect sense. But every name on this list earned their place through power, influence, and the ability to survive in a world where one wrong move could be your last. Let me know where you think I got it right—and where you think I’m completely wrong. Most Powerful Mafia Bosses Of All Time Ranked by Ex Mobster 1:39 The Five Categories Explained 4:19 Lucky Luciano 5:52 Paul Castellano 6:39 Tony "Big Tuna" Accardo 7:12 Joseph Bonanno 9:39 Carlos Marcello 10:11 Vincent "Chin" Gigante 10:53 Russell Bufalino 11:24 Salvatore Maranzano 12:03 Nicodemo Scarfo 12:30 Carmine Persico 13:09 Frank Costello 14:03 Vincent Basciano 14:45 Joey Massino 15:46 Raymond Patriarca 16:09 Vito Genovese 17:00 Anthony "Tony Ducks" Corallo 17:48 Carlo Gambino 18:51 Al Capone 20:20 Tommy Lucchese 21:00 Meyer Lansky 21:49 Anthony "Fat Tony" Salerno 23:09 Johnny Torrio 23:43 John Gotti 26:04 Bugsy Siegel 27:38 Joe Colombo 30:15 Final Rankings Summary 32:10 Conclusion Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I’ve never done this before—never had another made guy on my platform. But today, I’m sitting down with Dominic Cicale, former Bonanno family captain. We get into the parts of that life most people never understand. The camaraderie we miss. The respect that came naturally. The money you could get with a phone call. But also the betrayal, the politics, and why we both walked away from it all. Dom opens up about his biggest regrets, the cooperation decision that haunted him for years, and how he’s building something completely different now—a crypto project that’s already up 600% since launch. This isn’t Hollywood fiction. This is two guys who lived it, survived it, and turned their lives around talking about what really happened behind closed doors. If you’ve ever wondered what it was actually like—not the movie version, but the real thing—this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for. Backbone Media Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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