In this jaw-dropping episode of To The Point Home Services, we welcome Michael Franzese the former top-ranking member of the Colombo crime family who ran one of the most lucrative Mafia rackets in U.S. history. Today, a reformed businessman and motivational speaker, Michael recounts for us his astounding tale—of growing up under the guidance of a storied mob kingpin, of stealing from the government to the tune of billions of dollars, and, ultimately, of quitting the life and building a legitimate empire.
🎙️ No matter contractor, business executive, or just interested in high-stakes stories of redemption and leadership, this episode offers hard-won lessons on how to build a team, motivate people, and take advantage of opportunity—short of being in the underworld.
🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Michael's history: underboss son in the Mafia, pre-med student turned made man
How the gas tax rip-off swindled the government out of millions per week
Racketeers or gangsters: how Michael built a business empire by hiring the best
Street-smart lessons in leadership: how to inspire without fear, delegate to succeed
Why he defected from the Mafia—and what he paid in return
Faith, redemption, and becoming a global speaker
Business advice that actually works for home service entrepreneurs
⏱️ TIMECODES:
00:00 – Welcome & intro
00:45 – Growing up in the shadow of organized crime
03:20 – Authenticity vs. posers: Who's really “connected”?
05:00 – How Michael got pulled into the Mafia
10:30 – The rise of the billion-dollar gas scam
15:00 – Negotiating with oil companies and staying under the radar
20:15 – Managing people: mafia-style
27:00 – Racketeers vs gangsters in business
33:00 – The power of planning and delegation
38:00 – Walking away from the life: the cost of redemption
41:00 – Faith, family, and finding purpose
43:00 – Final thoughts + meet & greet info
🔗 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
• Michael Franzese YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelFranzese
• Michael’s Book: https://store.michaelfranzese.com/
💥 CALL TO ACTION
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💬 Drop a comment with your favorite quote or takeaway.
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