My Life As a Mafia Boss - Michael Franzese
Added: Mar 14, 2024
In this episode of Triggernometry, Michael Franzese, a former member of the Colombo crime family, shares his story of growing up in Brooklyn with a father who was a prominent figure in the mafia. His father, Sonny Franzese, was the underboss of the Colombo family and constantly under investigation by law enforcement. Despite initially wanting Michael to pursue a different path, his father's troubles led him to join the mafia.Key takeaways
Becoming a made man in the mafia was a defining moment in Michael Franzese's life. The solemn ceremony, including taking a Blood Oath, marked the beginning of his ascent in the ranks.
Franzese's success in illegal activities, particularly defrauding the government out of taxes, brought immense wealth and power within the mafia.
Living in the mafia world meant living with constant vigilance. Franzese was always aware of the threats from law enforcement and rival mobsters, which shaped his mindset and actions.",
Retirement from the mafia lifestyle was prompted by legal battles and the realization that Franzese's enemies were closing in.
The destructive nature of drugs deeply impacted Franzese's family, with the loss of his sister due to addiction.
Becoming a Made Man
After two and a half years of proving himself worthy, Michael Franzese is proposed for membership in the Colombo family. He undergoes a solemn ceremony where he takes a Blood Oath and becomes a made member. This marks the beginning of his rise in the ranks of the mafia. As a soldier, he is tasked with various responsibilities and is expected to be on call 24/7 to serve the family.
Rise to Power
Michael's aggressive nature and business acumen lead him to make a significant amount of money in illegal activities, particularly in defrauding the government out of taxes on gasoline. He establishes a lucrative operation involving gas stations and companies that bring in millions of dollars each week. His success in the criminal world earns him power, prestige, and a position as a captain in the Colombo family.
Past Life in Organized Crime
Michael highlights the complexities of running illegal businesses while evading government scrutiny. He acknowledges the presence of violence in the mob but clarifies that it was not the primary focus of their operations. He credits his father as his mentor, teaching him valuable life lessons such as being a good listener, showing respect, and avoiding judgment.
Constant Threats
Despite his wealth and status, Michael is constantly aware of the threats he faces from law enforcement and rival mobsters. He is the target of multiple undercover investigations and a 14-agency task force dedicated to bringing him down. This constant pressure and surveillance shape his mindset, making him always vigilant and cautious.
Brotherhood and Loyalty
One of the appealing aspects of the mafia life for Michael is the sense of brotherhood and loyalty among its members. He values the camaraderie and support he receives from his fellow mobsters, who promise to have his back in any situation. This bond is a powerful force in the criminal world and provides a sense of belonging and protection.
Addiction to the Lifestyle
Michael acknowledges that there is a certain addiction to the adrenaline and risk-taking involved in the mafia life. The high stakes, the constant danger, and the thrill of navigating through a world of crime and power can be intoxicating. Despite the potential consequences, many young men are drawn to this lifestyle for the excitement and sense of purpose it offers.
Constant Vigilance
Living in the mafia world means living with a constant awareness of the threats and dangers that surround you. Michael's upbringing and experiences have prepared him for a life where he is always on guard, knowing that at any moment, his enemies could strike. This heightened sense of vigilance becomes second nature to him, shaping his actions and decisions.
Legacy and Expectations
With his success and rising status in the Colombo family, Michael is groomed to potentially take over leadership one day. Both his father and the boss of the family see him as a potential future leader, alongside the boss's son. The expectations and responsibilities that come with this position weigh heavily on Michael, as he navigates the complexities of mafia politics and power dynamics.
Reflections on the Lifestyle
Despite the material wealth and power that come with being a made man, Michael acknowledges the downsides and risks of the mafia life. The constant threat of law enforcement, internal rivalries, and the potential for betrayal make it a precarious existence. While there is a sense of camaraderie and loyalty among mobsters, there is also a dark underbelly of violence, deceit, and treachery that can ultimately lead to downfall.
Transition to a New Life
After facing multiple legal battles and the realization that his enemies were closing in, Michael decides to leave the mafia life behind. He chooses to cooperate with law enforcement, testify against his former associates, and ultimately enter the witness protection program. This decision marks a turning point in his life, as he seeks redemption and a fresh start away from the criminal world.
Family Impact of Organized Crime
Michael reflects on the emotional turmoil and abuse his family endured due to his father's involvement in organized crime. He shares personal anecdotes of the struggles his siblings faced, including addiction and mental health issues. The stress and turbulence within the family are attributed to the lifestyle associated with organized crime.
Destructive Nature of Drugs
Michael expresses his deep hatred for drugs and recounts the tragic death of his sister due to addiction. He highlights the devastating impact of drugs on individuals and families, citing personal experiences within his own family. He stresses the need for stringent measures to address drug trafficking and addiction, advocating for tough enforcement and education.
Comparison with Prohibition Era
Drawing parallels with the Prohibition era, Michael discusses the differences between alcohol and drugs. He acknowledges the failure of Prohibition in curbing alcohol consumption but emphasizes the lethal nature of drugs, particularly fentanyl. He underscores the need for a focused approach to combat drug trafficking and prevent overdoses.
Border Security and Drug Trafficking
Michael criticizes the border security at the southern border, allowing illicit drugs to enter the country. He highlights the role of illegal immigrants in drug trafficking and the need for stringent enforcement to prevent drug-related deaths. He suggests a crackdown on drug dealers and traffickers to stem the flow of drugs into the country.
Political Motivations
Michael speculates on the political motivations behind the lenient approach to border security and drug enforcement. He suggests that the influx of illegal immigrants is a strategy to sway voting patterns and maintain political power. He criticizes the progressive ideology of being kind and accommodating towards illegal immigrants, pointing out the hypocrisy of affluent neighborhoods resisting their presence.
Political Connections and Influence
Michael discusses his interactions with politicians and the influence of organized crime in politics. He mentions the importance of having connections in the political sphere to navigate certain business dealings. He expresses cynicism towards politicians who prioritize personal gain over integrity and honesty. Michael believes that the breakdown of the family unit contributes to the challenges faced by young people today.
Upcoming Election and Future Outlook
As America approaches another election, Michael expresses concern over the current state of affairs and the potential consequences of another term under the existing leadership. He calls for alternative candidates and expresses a desire for a change in the political landscape to address the ongoing chaos and challenges facing the country.
Advice for Young People
Drawing from his experiences, Michael advises young people to avoid getting involved in criminal activities and to prioritize respect, kindness, and humility. He emphasizes the importance of having mentors and role models to guide individuals in making positive choices. He shares lessons learned from his time in the mob, including the need for strength in leadership and the consequences of making mistakes in that lifestyle.
Gender Affirming Surgery
Michael raises concerns about gender affirming surgery for minors, describing it as mutilation and expressing shock at Joe Biden's statement supporting the practice. He believes that there is not enough conversation about the ethical implications of allowing minors to undergo such procedures without fully understanding the consequences. He calls for more awareness and dialogue on the topic to prevent irreversible harm to young individuals.
Personal Transformation and Faith
Michael discusses his conversion to Christianity and the impact it has had on his life. He reflects on the changes he has experienced since embracing his faith, including a shift in perspective and a focus on redemption and forgiveness. He acknowledges the importance of seeking therapy and guidance rather than resorting to drastic measures like surgery to address personal struggles.
Related episodes
