E95: Owen Hanson | From USC Football Teammate to Federal Prison

In this episode of Matthews Mentality, join host Kyle Matthews as he reconnects with his former USC teammate, Owen Hanson. Their conversation takes a deep dive into Owen's incredible life story that spans his days as a football player, becoming a notorious international bookie, and later a drug lord, to spending nearly a decade in federal prison. Discussing his motivations, the adrenaline rush, and the void he tried to fill with illegal activities, Owen shares pivotal moments including laundering money, his arrest, and subsequent quest for redemption. Now, focusing on rebuilding his life, Owen details his journey of creating a successful protein ice cream brand and his dedication to speaking with young people about the real consequences of his past actions. This candid and gripping interview is a testament to the capacity for change and second chances.

00:00 Introduction and Early Life

01:03 College Years and Athletic Pursuits

01:54 Transition to Underground Operations

02:28 Life in Federal Prison and Redemption

05:37 Reflecting on Childhood and Family

12:01 The Rush of Adrenaline and Illegal Activities

31:43 The Rush of Camaraderie and Adrenaline

32:18 Transition to Real Estate and Economic Downturn

32:58 Becoming a Bookie: The Start of a New Venture

33:50 The Rise of Online Sports Betting

34:34 Indictment and Legal Troubles

34:55 From Bookie to Cartel Connections

35:53 International Expansion and Cartel Involvement

38:31 The Cartel's Trust and High-Stakes Operations

45:45 The Australian Cocaine Operation

55:45 Reflections on Power and Happiness

01:00:13 Prison Realizations and True Friendships

01:03:39 Money Laundering Through Gambling

01:05:13 The Big Lie and the Lost Money

01:06:18 Confrontation and Desperation

01:08:08 The Cartel's Pressure and Ingenious Solutions

01:12:38 The Arrest and Life in Prison

01:15:11 The Road to Redemption

01:21:34 Building a New Life with Ice Protein

01:29:31 Reflections and Lessons Learned