Matthew Cox | Inside True Crime Podcast SCAMMING OPRAH, THE MOB, & AMERICA
Aug 6, 2025
Barry Minkow, the youngest CEO of a publicly traded company, shares his tumultuous journey from a high school entrepreneur to a notorious fraudster. He reveals the gripping allure and moral dilemmas behind his white-collar crimes and encounters with organized crime. Minkow also reflects on his harrowing legal battles, the complexities of redemption as a pastor, and the emotional challenges of rebuilding trust with family post-incarceration. This riveting discussion blends personal anecdotes with insights on ethics and the seductive nature of financial deception.
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Early Fraudulent Business Start
- Barry Minkow started a carpet cleaning business at 16 with a $1,600 loan charging 200 a week interest.
- He quickly began committing check kiting and credit card fraud to cover payroll expenses.
Mob Financing and Connections
- Barry Minkow entered organized crime financing with mob connections lending at five points a week interest.
- This relationship extended to New York mob associates, deeply entangling him with organized crime.
Imputed Credibility Through Media
- Media exposure grants imputed credibility that fraudsters can exploit to fool investors and auditors.
- Publicity in respected outlets lowers suspicion, making it easier to perpetuate financial fraud.