Sammy 'The Bull' Gravano

Joining the discussion is "Sammy the Bull" Gravano, a former Gambino family mobster turned government informant, now a podcaster. He shares gripping tales of his rise in organized crime and the shocking betrayal that led him to testify against infamous mob boss John Gotti. Gravano reflects on the moral complexities of his past, the mafia code, and his transformation in witness protection. With anecdotes weaving faith, family ties, and a haunting connection to violence, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the life of a man who traded the mob for redemption.

From “The Godfather” to “Goodfellas” to “The Sopranos,” fictional portrayals of the mafia continue to enthrall the American public. On his podcast, “Our Thing,” Sammy “The Bull” Gravano, member of “La Cosa Nostra” and underboss of the Gambino crime family, tells the tales of the real thing. The man who once upheld “omertà,” or the code of silence, testified as a government witness against mob boss John Gotti in a 1992 plea deal. Prosecutors described him as “the most significant witness in the history of organized crime in the United States.” Since 2020, he has told stories of his time in “the life” over five seasons of the “Our Thing” podcast.  Alec also speaks with co-creator of the podcast, James Carroll, a director, producer, editor and cinematographer of film and television. He shares how the podcast came to be and what he’s learned working with the notorious mobster. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sammy 'The Bull' Gravano, a former mobster infamous for his crimes and cooperation with the authorities, joins Michael Franzese, a former mobster turned legitimate businessman. They dive into intense reflections on loyalty and betrayal, recounting their tangled pasts in the Mafia. Heated confrontations unveil their complex histories, especially their ties to notorious figures. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of authentic communication as they navigate misunderstandings and prepare for their upcoming project, 'Mafia States of America.'

Sammy "The Bull" Gravano, the infamous former underboss of the Gambino crime family, shares his captivating journey from crime to penance. He discusses what drives someone from a seemingly normal upbringing into mafia life and why some choose to walk away. Gravano sheds light on the evolving mafia code and dives into the harsh realities of prison life. With gripping tales of violence, betrayal, and the challenges of the Witness Protection Program, he offers a raw glimpse into the underworld, revealing the stark contrast between the glamorous and grim aspects of gangster life.

Sammy 'The Bull' Gravano, former mobster and author of 'Underboss,' shares fascinating insights about his life in organized crime. He differentiates between gangsters and racketeers while reflecting on the intertwined histories of the Jewish and Italian mobs. Sammy also discusses the moral complexities of loyalty in his criminal past, revealing a poignant moment concerning a hit he was ordered to perform. Additionally, he touches on personal freedom, spirituality found in prison, and the importance of steering youth away from glamorizing crime.