Let’s be real—you probably don’t expect to pick up life advice from a guy who once handled millions of dollars a week for the notorious Colombo Crime Family. But Michael Franzese’s wild ride—from mob ‘racketeer’ to motivational speaker—feels more like a movie plot than reality. My fascination started when I stumbled onto a clip: stacks of cash, strict codes, betrayal, resilience. The more I learned, the more I wondered—not just about crime, but about what it means to truly change. Buckle up for personal stories, family drama, and the mafia’s surprisingly transferable lessons for life and business.
1. Mafia Millions and Moral Crossroads: Franzese’s Life at the Top
When you hear the name Michael Franzese, you might picture the glitz and shadows of organized crime. But the real story, as Franzese himself shares, is a complex journey through loyalty, betrayal, and the staggering scale of mafia business. As a caporegime in the Colombo Crime Family, Franzese found himself at the crossroads of power and peril, handling sums that most legitimate CEOs could only dream of—and facing moral dilemmas that would haunt anyone.
The Business of Organized Crime: Millions in Motion
Imagine running 18 businesses, each one a cog in a well-oiled machine designed to outsmart the system. That was Franzese’s reality. At the peak of his criminal career, he masterminded a gasoline tax fraud operation that, by his own account, brought in up to $10 million a week (0.03-0.05). He once claimed,
“We’re bringing in $10 million a week… 40-50 million in cash.”
The sheer volume of cash was staggering—sometimes as much as $40-50 million at one time, stacked in safe houses and hidden from prying eyes.
Research shows that Franzese’s gasoline tax scam was one of the most lucrative in mafia history, siphoning millions from federal and state governments. This wasn’t just street-level hustle; it was high-level organized crime, run with the precision of a Fortune 500 company. No wonder Franzese was listed as number 18 on Fortune Magazine’s list of America’s most powerful mafia bosses by age 35.
Racketeer or Gangster? The Mafia’s Moral Divide
Within the Colombo Crime Family, there was a clear distinction between being a “racketeer” and a “gangster.” Franzese explains, “There’s two levels in that life. You’re either a racketeer or you’re a gangster. And I was a racketeer, meaning I was elevating the family by making them money.” (0.23-0.31)
For Franzese, the focus was always on business—generating revenue, building networks, and keeping the family’s coffers full. But the line between business and violence was razor-thin. The mafia’s code of conduct was strict, and the consequences for breaking it were severe. Franzese faced 18 arrests over the years, each one a reminder that the stakes were life and death (0.05-0.07).
Loyalty, Betrayal, and Family Ties
Perhaps the most wrenching part of Franzese’s story is the way loyalty and betrayal intertwined. The mafia is a family, but it’s also a business—and sometimes, those worlds collide in the worst ways. Franzese recalls,
“My dad had a powerful position in the mafia and he betrayed me. That was rough.”
(1.07-1.13)
His father, Sonny Franzese, was a legendary underboss who received a 50-year prison sentence for bank robbery. That moment changed everything for Michael, who dropped out of college to support his family and eventually rose through the ranks. But betrayal wasn’t just a personal wound; it was a professional risk. Friends who broke the mafia’s code often paid with their lives. Franzese remembers, “A very dear friend of mine… he did something that was a total violation of our life and he ended up getting killed.” (1.02-1.06)
Moral Crossroads and Personal Crisis
Despite the millions, the power, and the notoriety as a mafia boss, Franzese eventually faced a crisis of conscience. The criminal earnings, once intoxicating, began to weigh on him. He admits, “I’ve done a lot of bad things in my life but it’s not the path that I wanted to take. I realized I got to get away from this.” (1.15-1.21)
Even family dinners weren’t safe from the tension. Imagine a Sunday meal suddenly turning tense as law enforcement arrived—reminders that in organized crime, the line between normalcy and chaos is always thin.
In the world of organized crime, the numbers are staggering—but the emotional toll is just as real. Michael Franzese’s journey through the upper echelons of the mafia reveals not just the mechanics of massive fraud, but the personal costs of a life built on loyalty, risk, and, ultimately, hard choices.
2. Breaking Down the Mafia Hierarchy: Family, Ranks, and Reality
If you’ve ever wondered how the Colombo Crime Family really operated, you’re not alone. The mafia hierarchy isn’t just a Hollywood invention—it’s a carefully structured system, rooted in Sicilian tradition and adapted for American organized crime. Michael Franzese, who grew up in this world, offers a rare inside look at both the business and personal sides of this infamous family.
The Colombo Crime Family: From Sicily to New York
The Colombo Family’s story starts with migration from Sicily to the United States between 1885 and 1901. Like other Italian crime groups, they brought with them a strict mafia structure—a system that mirrored the old country’s values of loyalty, secrecy, and hierarchy. Michael’s father, Sonny Franzese, became the underboss, making their home a central hub for both family and criminal operations (see 4:48-4:53).
Understanding the Mafia Hierarchy
So, how does this mafia hierarchy actually work? Michael explains it simply (10:35-11:31):
- Associates: These are outsiders who work with the family but haven’t taken the oath. They’re often hoping to prove themselves.
- Soldiers: The first official rank. You become a “made man” after taking the oath—this is where true loyalty is tested.
- Capos (Compor Jes): Think of them as street bosses or managers. They oversee crews of soldiers and report up the chain.
- Underboss: The second-in-command. Michael’s father held this role, acting as the operational leader beneath the boss.
- Boss: The CEO of the family, making the final calls on all major decisions.
- Consigliere: An advisor to the boss, often acting as a mediator or counselor.
“There’s a boss and an underboss… consiliary is kind of an advisor to the boss.” (10:59-11:03)
‘Uncle Joe’ and the Power of Informal Ties
Beyond the formal ranks, there’s a web of informal connections—what Michael calls the “Uncle Joe” syndrome. Associates and family friends often blurred the lines between business and personal life. Growing up, Michael saw these men not just as criminals, but as uncles, mentors, and protectors. This close-knit atmosphere made the rules of organized crime feel like family traditions.
Loyalty, Rules, and the Price of Disloyalty
Loyalty was everything. Once you were “made,” breaking the rules could mean severe consequences—sometimes even death. The oath wasn’t just a ceremony; it was a lifelong bond. If you crossed the line, the family’s response was swift and often brutal. This rigid code kept the mafia structure intact for generations.
Mapping the Mafia to a Corporate Org Chart
For a modern twist, imagine the mafia hierarchy as a corporate ladder:
- Soldier: Entry-level employee
- Capo: Middle manager
- Underboss: Vice president
- Boss: CEO
It’s a surprisingly effective way to understand how decisions flowed and why each role mattered.
Michael’s Double Life: Family Man vs. Mob Insider
Michael’s childhood was a study in contrasts. At home, his father was just “Dad”—but outside, he was a high-profile target for law enforcement. Michael recalls, “We had six or seven different agencies parked around our house… it was that severe with my dad.” (5:38-5:50) The constant surveillance shaped Michael’s view of the world, making him wary of police and government from a young age (4:56-5:36).
Anecdote: Surrounded by Law Enforcement
Imagine leaving your house and seeing a parade of law enforcement vehicles following you. For the Franzese family, this was daily life. Michael describes the intensity: “Every time we left there was a parade of law enforcement Vehicles following us… I’ve never seen anything like that quite honestly.” (5:41-5:54) This relentless scrutiny was a testament to how seriously authorities viewed the threat of organized crime.
3. Codes, Consequences, and the Cost of Breaking the Rules
When you step into the world of organized crime, especially within the notorious Colombo Crime Family, you’re not just joining a group—you’re accepting a strict code. For Michael Franzese, these rules weren’t just guidelines. They were life and death. The cost of breaking them? Often, it was personal tragedy, and the consequences could echo through generations.
Unyielding Codes: Loyalty, Silence, and Obedience
In the mafia, loyalty is everything. You’re expected to put the organization above all else—sometimes even your own family. Silence, or omertà, is sacred. Obedience is non-negotiable. As Franzese explained (0.54-0.56), “we have rules and you don’t violate the rules because the consequences are severe.” These weren’t empty threats. The rules were enforced with a chilling consistency.
Personal Tragedy: When Rules Are Broken
Michael Franzese’s story is filled with examples of what happens when someone steps out of line. One of the most harrowing cases involved a member who was forced to kill his own father for the organization (1.00-1.02). This wasn’t just about punishment—it was about sending a message. No one, not even family, was above the code.
Franzese also shared a deeply personal loss: “A very dear friend of mine… he ended up getting killed” (1.02-1.06). His friend had violated the rules of ‘the life’—the mafia’s way of living. The result was fatal. These stories aren’t just dramatic anecdotes; they’re reminders of the irreversible consequences that come with breaking the mafia’s code.
Betrayal and Emotional Fallout
The emotional toll of living by these rules was immense. Perhaps the most painful betrayal Michael experienced came from his own father, Sonny Franzese, a powerful figure in the Colombo Crime Family. As Michael recounted (1.07-1.13), “my dad had a powerful position in the mafia and he betrayed me. That was rough, Steve.” The pain of betrayal by someone so close cut deeper than any physical threat. It’s a stark reminder that in organized crime, trust is fragile, and the cost of broken trust can last a lifetime.
Survival and Stepping ‘Outside Yourself’
To survive in this world, you often had to do things that went against your own morals. Michael admitted, “I’ve done a lot of bad things in my life but it’s not the path that I wanted to take” (1.15-1.17). He described the discomfort he felt with violence and the need to step ‘outside himself’ just to get by. This internal conflict—reconciling personal values with the group’s demands—was a constant struggle.
From Fear to Resilience: Lessons Learned
Living under these strict boundaries forced Michael to develop a kind of resilience. Fear was always present, but so was the drive to survive. Over time, he learned to navigate the unyielding codes of the mafia, even as they weighed heavily on his conscience.
Wild Card: Mafia Rules in the Modern Workplace?
Imagine if the strict codes of organized crime were enforced in today’s workplaces. Absolute loyalty, silence about company secrets, and unwavering obedience to leadership. While the stakes wouldn’t be life or death, the emotional fallout—broken trust, fear of betrayal, and the pressure to conform—might feel eerily familiar. It’s a wild thought, but it shows just how extreme the mafia’s expectations were.
Broken Trust and Hard Lessons
For Michael Franzese, the turning point came when he realized he had to get away from this life (1.19-1.21). The betrayals, the violence, and the constant fear finally outweighed any sense of loyalty he felt. His prison experience only deepened his resolve to leave organized crime behind.
“I’ve done a lot of bad things in my life but it’s not the path that I wanted to take.”
“A very dear friend of mine… he ended up getting killed.”
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Forced to kill family | One member had to kill his father for the organization |
| Arrests | Michael Franzese was arrested 18 times |
| Violence witnessed | Franzese witnessed multiple killings |
Research shows that the strict enforcement of mafia rules led to irreversible consequences for those who broke them. For Michael Franzese, reconciling his personal values with the demands of the Colombo Crime Family was a lifelong challenge—one that ultimately shaped his journey from organized crime to redemption.
4. Growing Up Mafia: Childhood Under Surveillance and Parental Influence
Imagine growing up in a world where your every move is watched, not just by neighbors, but by a parade of law enforcement vehicles. For Michael Franzese, former caporegime in the Colombo Crime Family, this was daily life. His story is a rare window into the personal cost of organized crime—not just for those who choose the life, but for their families as well.
Strict Mother, Secretive Father: The Foundation of Franzese’s Childhood
Michael Franzese’s early years were shaped by a unique family dynamic. His mother, only 16 when he was born, was strict and unyielding. As Michael put it,
“I had a very strict mother… my father was a high-profile guy at that time.”
His father, John “Sonny” Franzese, was both loving and secretive—a man who could be gentle at home, but whose reputation in the world of organized crime was fearsome.
This duality created a turbulent environment. While his mother enforced discipline, his father’s notoriety as a major target for law enforcement meant that normalcy was always just out of reach. Michael and his siblings often lived with their grandparents after moving from Brooklyn, seeking some stability amid the chaos.
Childhood Under Constant Surveillance
From as young as four or five, Michael’s world was defined by surveillance. Law enforcement agencies—sometimes six or seven at a time—were a constant presence outside the Franzese home. Michael recalls,
“There were six or seven different agencies parked around our house.”
Every time the family left, a convoy of police vehicles would follow. This wasn’t just the occasional patrol; it was relentless, round-the-clock scrutiny.
If you try to picture your own neighborhood with police cars parked outside 24/7, it’s hard to grasp the tension. For Michael, this was normal. Research shows that such an environment profoundly affects a child’s worldview. The constant presence of authority figures—seen as adversaries—shaped his early attitudes toward law and government.
Moments of Normalcy, Flashes of Violence
Despite the chaos, there were moments that felt almost ordinary. Family meals, school routines, and childhood games happened in the shadow of surveillance. But the threat of sudden violence was never far away. Michael shares a vivid memory: his father, usually gentle at home, once erupted in anger during a business meeting. Michael watched as his father picked a man up by the throat and pinned him against a wall. For a child, witnessing this side of a parent—so different from the loving father at home—was both confusing and frightening.
This duality left its mark. Michael’s mother, the disciplinarian, “didn’t spare the rod.” His father, on the other hand, never hit his children, but his capacity for violence was undeniable. The emotional push-pull between love, loyalty, and fear became a defining feature of Michael’s upbringing.
The Impact: Shaping a Worldview Under Scrutiny
Growing up under constant watch had a lasting effect on Michael Franzese. At the time, he saw law enforcement as the enemy. As he explains, “I hated the police, I hated the government, I hated anything about law enforcement because I saw them as the enemy… harassing my dad, harassing my family.” This animosity was not uncommon among children of organized crime figures, but in Michael’s case, it was especially intense due to the level of scrutiny his family endured.
Over time, though, Michael’s perspective shifted. His later prison experience and eventual transformation—leaving the Colombo Crime Family and becoming a motivational speaker—show how early adversity can lead to profound change. But as a child, the world seemed divided: family versus law enforcement, loyalty versus fear.
Key Data from Michael Franzese’s Early Life
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Mother’s Age at Birth | 16 years old |
| Family Residence | Lived with grandparents after moving from Brooklyn |
| Father’s Sentence | Sentenced to 50 years in prison (1967) |
Michael Franzese’s story is a powerful reminder of how the shadow of organized crime can shape not just those who choose the life, but the children who grow up in its midst. The lessons of loyalty, secrecy, and survival start early—and leave a mark that can last a lifetime.
5. The Art of Negotiation: Ruthless Lessons for Business and Life
When you think about negotiation, you might picture a business meeting or a tense sales pitch. But for Michael Franzese, negotiation was a matter of survival. Coming from the world of organized crime, he learned early that negotiation wasn’t just a tactic—it was an art form, a lifeline, and sometimes, the only thing standing between life and death. As he puts it,
“The art of negotiation. This is a tremendous technique to get what you want.” (0.46-0.48)
Applying ‘Mafia Negotiation’ to Modern Business and Personal Situations
Michael Franzese’s story is a masterclass in how negotiation skills honed in the mafia can translate into powerful business lessons. In the mafia, every conversation, every deal, and every handshake could have high stakes. Today, you might not be negotiating with mob bosses, but the principles still apply—whether you’re closing a business deal, navigating office politics, or even handling family disputes.
- Patience: In the world of organized crime, patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a necessity. Rushing into a deal could mean disaster. Franzese learned to wait, to let the other side reveal their hand first. In business, patience allows you to gather information, read the room, and avoid costly mistakes.
- Reading Opponents: Michael became an expert at reading people. He watched body language, listened for hesitation, and looked for signs of weakness or uncertainty. This skill is just as valuable in the boardroom as it is in the back room. When you understand what motivates the other side, you can craft offers they can’t refuse—without ever making a threat.
- Keeping a Strong Position: In negotiations, showing weakness can be dangerous. Franzese always aimed to keep a strong position, projecting confidence and authority. In business, this means knowing your worth, being prepared, and never letting desperation show.
Learning from Fear and Authority: Ruthless Lessons in Legitimate Business
The mafia uses fear and authority as tools, but Michael Franzese found ways to adapt these lessons for legitimate business. He realized that you don’t need to intimidate people to get what you want. Instead, you can command respect by being prepared, knowledgeable, and unwavering. When people know you have a reputation for fairness—but also for not backing down—they’re more likely to meet you halfway.
Anecdote: Michael’s Negotiation Style—Getting What You Want Without Overt Threats
Franzese often shares stories of negotiations where he got exactly what he wanted without ever raising his voice or making direct threats. Instead, he relied on subtle cues, strategic silence, and a deep understanding of what the other side needed. He describes negotiation as an art—knowing when to press, when to pull back, and when to walk away. As he says, you should “always want to walk away with something.” This mindset, learned in the mafia, became a cornerstone of his motivational speaking and business consulting career.
Mafia Negotiations as Extreme Chess—Always Thinking Three Moves Ahead
If you think of negotiation as chess, mafia negotiation is like playing on a board where every piece could be a trap. Franzese learned to anticipate moves, plan contingencies, and never reveal his full strategy. In business, this means preparing for every outcome, understanding the motivations of your counterparts, and staying flexible. It’s not about winning every battle—it’s about positioning yourself so you never lose the war.
What Changes When Your Reputation Precedes You?
One unique aspect of Michael Franzese’s journey is the power of reputation. In organized crime, your reputation could open doors—or close them forever. In business, a strong reputation for integrity, skill, and results can make negotiations smoother. People are more likely to trust you, or at least respect your position, if they know you have a track record of following through.
Wild Card: Could You Negotiate with a Room of Mafia Bosses?
Imagine sitting across from a table of mafia bosses, each with their own agenda, each sizing you up. Could you hold your own? Michael Franzese did, and he survived to tell the tale. The same skills—confidence, preparation, and the ability to read the room—are just as valuable whether you’re facing mobsters or CEOs. The stakes might be different, but the art of negotiation remains the same.
Michael Franzese’s journey from organized crime to motivational speaking is proof that negotiation is more than just a business lesson—it’s a life skill. Whether you’re in the boardroom or the back room, mastering the art of negotiation can help you get what you want, every time.
6. From Capo to Christian: Redemption, Prison, and Building a New Life
If you’ve ever wondered how someone can go from the upper ranks of the Mafia to standing on stage as a motivational speaker, Michael Franzese’s journey is a story you won’t soon forget. His transformation from a feared caporegime in the Colombo crime family to a born-again Christian and advocate for positive change is both dramatic and deeply human. This section explores the pivotal moments of his prison experience, his faith-driven rebirth, and the lessons he now shares with audiences worldwide.
Prison Experience: The Turning Point
Michael Franzese’s prison experience was not just a consequence of his criminal past—it became the crucible that forged his new identity. Sentenced to 10 years in prison in 1986 for racketeering and tax fraud, he was released in 1989, only to be rearrested in 1991 for a parole violation. He finally walked free in 1994. These years behind bars were marked by uncertainty, danger, and a constant awareness of the consequences of his choices. As Franzese himself puts it,
“During my time in prison, I became a born-again Christian and walked away from the mob.”
What makes his prison experience unique isn’t just the time served, but the transformation that took place within those walls. Unlike many mobsters who either remain loyal to the code or enter witness protection, Michael chose a different path—one rooted in faith and personal accountability.
Embracing Faith: Becoming a Born-Again Christian
For Michael Franzese, the real turning point came when he embraced Christianity. Research shows that religious conversion can be a powerful force for personal change, especially in environments as challenging as prison. During his incarceration, Michael began to question the values and loyalties that had defined his life. The isolation and danger he faced—surviving dozens of grand jury appearances and even a Mafia death sentence—forced him to confront who he truly was.
In a candid moment from an interview (3.00-3.25), Michael describes how he would “step out” of himself to do things he was uncomfortable with, then return to his everyday persona. When asked, “How do you know who the real Michael is—the guy that stepped out or the guy that’s sitting here in front of me now?” he admits, “That’s a good question.” This self-reflection was the beginning of his journey towards faith and redemption.
Mob Code vs. Moral Code: Redefining Loyalty
One of the most compelling aspects of Michael’s story is his comparison of the Mafia’s code of loyalty to the moral code he adopted after his conversion. The mob’s code demanded absolute loyalty, often at the expense of personal integrity and even life itself. Post-redemption, Michael’s loyalty shifted—from the organization to his faith, his family, and his own sense of right and wrong.
This shift is not just philosophical; it’s practical. Michael Franzese is the only high-ranking mobster to walk away from a major crime family without entering witness protection—and survive. His life is a testament to the power of personal conviction and the courage it takes to leave the past behind.
Lessons in Resilience, Forgiveness, and Reinvention
Today, Michael Franzese channels his experiences into motivational speaking, sharing hard-won lessons on resilience, forgiveness, and the possibility of true change. His story stands out among mob biographies because it’s not just about crime and punishment—it’s about hope, faith, and the belief that anyone can start over.
- Resilience: Surviving prison, multiple releases, and a Mafia death sentence.
- Forgiveness: Letting go of anger and betrayal, both from others and himself.
- Reinvention: Building a new life as a born-again Christian and motivational speaker.
If you’re searching for inspiration, Michael Franzese’s journey from Mafia capo to Christian motivator is a powerful reminder that redemption is possible—even in the unlikeliest of places.
7. The Legacy of a Life Rewritten: Lessons for Leaders, Dreamers, and Survivors
When you hear the name Michael Franzese, you might first think of the Mafia, high-stakes crime, and a life on the edge. But today, Michael Franzese is known for something very different: motivational speaking, sharing business lessons, and teaching leadership lessons to audiences far removed from the world he once inhabited. His journey from notorious caporegime to respected advisor is not just a story of survival—it’s a blueprint for anyone facing the need to reinvent themselves.
Franzese’s story resonates because it’s not just about escaping the Mafia. It’s about the universal challenge of starting over. Whether you’re a business leader, a young person at a crossroads, or someone who’s made mistakes and wants a second chance, the lessons Michael shares are surprisingly transferable. He’s spent years advising businesses, mentoring youth, and consulting for organizations that want to understand the real meaning of discipline, loyalty, and the consequences of every choice.
One of the most striking things about Michael’s message is how he draws on the Mafia’s code—not to glorify it, but to compare it with the ethics of the corporate world. Sometimes, he says, the loyalty and discipline demanded by organized crime outshone what he later saw in legitimate business. That’s a tough pill to swallow, but it’s also a wake-up call for anyone in leadership. Are you building a culture where people can trust each other? Are you holding yourself and your team accountable? These are questions that reach far beyond any criminal context.
Michael’s own reinvention started in the most unlikely place: prison. After being sentenced to 10 years for racketeering and tax fraud (research shows he was once generating up to $8 million a week), he faced a crossroads. Would he be defined by his past, or could he become someone new? His answer came slowly, through faith, reflection, and a willingness to confront his own mistakes. Today, as a motivational speaker and consultant, he uses his past as a teaching tool, showing that resilience and the ability to start over are qualities anyone can develop.
But what does it really mean to rebuild from scratch? Michael often asks his audiences to imagine losing everything—their reputation, their career, even their sense of self. What would you do? How would you find your way back? It’s a powerful question, and it’s one that forces you to confront your own values and priorities. For Michael, the answer was to focus on character, not circumstance. He believes that while our environment shapes us, it’s our choices that define us in the end.
There’s a memorable moment in his story that brings this struggle to life. During an interview, psychologist Jordan Peterson asked Michael a question that stopped him in his tracks (2.40-3.33). Peterson wanted to know: after years of living a double life, who was the real Michael Franzese? The man who “stepped out” to do what needed to be done, or the person sitting there now, sharing his story? Michael’s honest response:
“I’ve been this guy for the last almost 30 years so hopefully this is the guy.”
That uncertainty, that ongoing search for identity, is something anyone can relate to—especially if you’ve ever had to reinvent yourself. It’s not about erasing the past, but about learning from it and using those lessons to build something better.
Imagine, for a moment, a leadership bootcamp run by ex-mafia capos. It sounds wild, but the core principles—discipline, loyalty, accountability—are the same ones that drive success in any field. Michael Franzese’s legacy isn’t just about redemption; it’s about showing that anyone, no matter their background, can become a leader worth following.
In the end, the story of Michael Franzese is a reminder that the most important business lessons and leadership lessons often come from the most unexpected places. If you’re facing a crossroads, his journey proves that it’s never too late to rewrite your life—and to inspire others to do the same.
TL;DR: Michael Franzese’s journey proves that even from the darkest corners of organized crime, it’s possible to find purpose, change your path, and inspire others with hard-won wisdom.
A big shoutout to The Diary Of A CEO for their enlightening content! Be sure to check it out here: https://youtu.be/S1JXKT7mf9A?si=MAMdKYrSf1J22sKO.
