HOW NOT TO BOMB PRESENTS: EVERYBODY'S GOT A STORY.

Michael Parise

How Not to Bomb Presents... Everybody's Got a Story is where compelling conversations meet real life. Hosted by comedian, entrepreneur, speaker, and author Michael "Wheels" Parise, this podcast features candid interviews with people from every walk of life—entertainers, business leaders, athletes, creators, and everyday individuals with extraordinary experiences. Every guest has faced challenges, celebrated victories, learned valuable lessons, and lived a story worth sharing. Through honest conversation, humor, and insight, Michael uncovers the moments that shaped their journey and the wisdom they've gained along the way. Whether you're looking for inspiration, motivation, laughter, or simply a great story, you'll find it here. Because everybody's got a story... and every story has the power to inspire someone else. New episodes every week. Hosted by Michael "Wheels" Parise.

  1. 3d ago

    Do Mobsters Laugh and Cry? Life Behind the Reputation and Ego|Andrew DiDonato

    What happens when a former Gambino associate leaves crime behind—and has to figure out everyday life? On How Not to Bomb Presents: Everybody’s Got a Story, Michael “Wheels” Parise sits down with Andrew DiDonato for a candid, often funny conversation about going legit, opening a pizzeria, running a business, and rebuilding an identity beyond the mob. Andrew discusses the challenge of adjusting to ordinary routines, the boredom that can come with leaving a high-pressure lifestyle, and the struggle to change old ways of thinking. Wheels and Andrew also explore power, fear, respect, ego, and emotional vulnerability. Who are you when your reputation no longer defines you—and what are tough guys really like when nobody’s watching? Along the way, they trade personal stories, talk about influential comedians and the changing comedy scene, and explore Andrew’s move into entertainment. An honest conversation about reinvention, accountability, humor, and the everyday work of building a different life. Subscribe to @hownottobomb and join the conversation: Can someone truly leave their old identity behind? A Parise Group Production. #EverybodysGotAStory #HowNotToBomb #AndrewDiDonato #MichaelWheelsParise

  2. Oct 2

    Former Gambino Associate Andrew DiDonato Reveals What Mob Movies Get Wrong

    Mob movies: real or garbage? Former Gambino associate Andrew DiDonato breaks down what The Godfather and Casino get right—and what Hollywood gets wrong. On this episode of Straightened Out, Andrew draws on his own experiences to discuss prison life, money problems, paranoia, and the complicated relationships behind organized crime. From vouching for an associate to betrayal among friends, he explains how loyalty, fear, and power shaped the world he knew. The movies show the lifestyle. Andrew talks about what it cost. IN THIS EPISODE: • Iconic scenes from The Godfather and Casino compared with Andrew’s experiences • Prison food, connections, and relationships • Flashy spending, financial struggles, and unwanted attention • Vouching for someone—and being responsible for their actions • Loyalty, betrayal, and the pressure of living with paranoia • Fear versus respect in mob power dynamics Which mob movie scene should Andrew break down next? Tell us in the comments. Subscribe to the How Not to Bomb Network: https://www.youtube.com/@hownottobomb How Not to Bomb Presents Straightened Out with Andrew DiDonato A Parise Group Production #StraightenedOut #AndrewDiDonato #MobMovies #TheGodfather #Casino #HowNotToBomb

  3. Oct 1

    Mob Movies: What’s Real & What’s Hollywood? | Andrew DiDonato

    The Godfather. Casino. The scenes everybody remembers—but how close did Hollywood get to real mob life? On this episode of Straightened Out, Andrew DiDonato shares his perspective as a former Gambino associate, breaking down movie moments involving power, loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of crossing the wrong person. From prison food and connections to financial struggles, fragile egos, and constant paranoia, Andrew shares personal stories about the life behind the movie image. We also get into what it means to vouch for someone—and why friendship can become complicated when money and survival enter the picture. What did the movies get right? What was exaggerated? And what was complete garbage? IN THIS EPISODE: • The realism behind iconic mob movie scenes • Prison life, food, and relationships • Flashy spending and financial pressure • Vouching, loyalty, and personal responsibility • Betrayal, paranoia, and the cost of power • Casino skimming and Hollywood’s portrayal of organized crime CHAPTERS: 00:00 Tech Troubles & Mob Movies 02:49 Fragile Egos & Real Consequences 05:59 Prison Life: Food & Connections 09:01 The Cost of Flashy Living 12:08 Navigating Mob Relationships 14:58 Financial Struggles in the Life 17:47 Paranoia & the Life of Crime 20:57 Vouching: Your Word, Your Responsibility 22:58 Confronting Neighborhood Bullies 24:09 Witness Intimidation & Testimony 26:31 Betrayal Among Friends 28:12 The Cost of Loyalty 30:17 Coordinated Attacks in Mob Life 32:45 The Reality of Casino Skimming 33:48 Fear vs. Love: How Power Works 35:15 Hollywood’s Take on Mob Life 36:26 Betting Insights & Predictions Which mob movie scene should Andrew break down next? Tell us in the comments. Subscribe to the How Not to Bomb Network: https://www.youtube.com/@hownottobomb How Not to Bomb Presents Straightened Out with Andrew DiDonato A Parise Group Production #StraightenedOut #AndrewDiDonato #MobMovies #TheGodfather #Casino #HowNotToBomb

  4. Sep 23

    Former Gambino Associate Andrew DiDonato: Why I Cooperated | Straightened Out.

    The premiere of the show 'Straighten Out' features Andrew DiDonato, a former member of the Gambino Crime family, sharing his experiences and insights into the criminal underworld. He discusses the meaning of 'straightened out' and the changing dynamics of organized crime over the years. The conversation covers Andrew DiDonato's experiences in the criminal world, including bank robberies, life in prison, and his interactions with other members of organized crime. It also delves into his decision to cooperate with law enforcement and the consequences of that choice. The conversation covers a range of topics, including dealing with haters, the changing culture of the mafia, personal experiences, and future plans for the show. Andrew DiDonato shares insights into his life and perspectives on various subjects. Takeaways Life in the Gambino Crime family was filled with danger, intrigue, and a strict code of conduct.The term 'straightened out' holds a dual meaning, representing both initiation into the crime family and the personal transformation of leaving that life behind. Bank RobberiesLife in PrisonCooperation with Law Enforcement Dealing with haters is inevitable and requires a strong sense of self and resilience.The changing culture of the mafia and the contrast between older and younger generations is a significant theme. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to 'Straighten Out'01:13 Andrew's Life in the Gambino Crime Family02:44 The Meaning of 'Straightened Out'04:17 The Evolution of Getting 'Straightened Out'06:05 The Shift in Organized Crime07:17 The Impact of Modern Surveillance on Crime08:17 The Reality of Cooperation in the Mob09:07 The Protocol and Dynamics in Jail10:02 Respect and Hierarchy in Jail11:14 Encounters with Criminals from Charlestown18:23 The Bank Robbery Experience25:04 Bank Robberies and Surveillance26:03 Memorable Bank Robberies28:14 Life in Solitary Confinement33:38 Transition and Cooperation with Law Enforcement47:48 Dealing with Haters and Resilience49:15 The Changing Culture of the Mafia50:39 Personal Experiences and Relationships52:26 Facing Intimidation and Resilience55:26 Navigating Public Perception and Haters56:12 Personal Story: Shooting Incident and Reflections01:01:16 Future Plans and Show Content

  5. Sep 17

    Luca Palanca: Comedy, Loyalty, Love & the Hollywood Years

    The conversation covers Luca Palanca's journey from his early days in comedy to his move to California, his experiences in the entertainment industry, and his interactions with other comedians. It also delves into his family background and the challenges he faced as a young comedian. The conversation covers Luca's experience at the Laugh Factory and the Comedy Store, as well as his close relationship with Mitzi Shore. It also delves into the changing culture of comedy and the impact of industry influence on comedy clubs. The conversation covers topics such as the loyalty of comedians, the impact of stardom on relationships, and personal anecdotes from the entertainment industry. It also delves into the theme of faith and the dynamics of a long-term relationship. The conversation covers Luca's experience with Bell's palsy, the impact of metformin, and his journey back into comedy. It also delves into the enduring love and commitment in Luca's marriage, as well as his upcoming projects in the comedy industry. Takeaways Comedy JourneyFriendships in Comedy Comedy club culture has evolved over time, influenced by industry practices and financial considerations.The close relationship between Luca and Mitzi Shore had a significant impact on his career and experiences in the comedy world. Comedians' loyalty and support for each otherThe impact of stardom on relationships Bell's palsy and its impact on Luca's lifeThe enduring love and commitment in Luca's marriage Chapters 00:00 Early Days in Comedy13:15 Moving to California18:13 Interactions with Other Comedians21:52 Comedy Club Culture and Industry Influence34:54 The Impact of Mitzi Shore42:22 Comedians' Loyalty and Support43:09 The Impact of Stardom on Relationships49:53 Faith and Relationships59:49 Personal Anecdotes from the Entertainment Industry01:03:14 Bell's Palsy and Metformin01:06:00 Love and Commitment in Marriage01:08:17 Comedy and Projects

  6. Sep 11

    The Frog on the Lily Pad: Andrew DiDonato, Surviving the Mob

    The conversation delves into the experiences and insights of living a life intertwined with the mob, survival skills, and the impact of mob podcasts on entertainment. It also explores the importance of remaining alert and mindful, as well as the significance of enriching friendships and positive influences. The discussion touches on neighborhood connections, mob-run joints, and the neighborhood circuits of the past. The conversation delves into the dynamics of organized crime, exploring the concept of neutral territory, the nature of relationships, the dilemma of loyalty and betrayal, and the role of Al Diarco in leadership. Personal experiences and insights provide a deep understanding of these themes in the context of organized crime. The conversation delves into the dangers of trusting the wrong people, the dynamics of leadership and power, insights into the Colombo War, and reflections on mob life and associates. It provides a deep exploration of the mafia world, highlighting the risks, power struggles, and personal experiences within the organization. The conversation delves into Andrew DiDonato's experiences with the law, parole, and life after the streets. It explores the challenges and revelations of transitioning from a life of crime to a life of second chances and new beginnings. Takeaways Learning from mistakes and preparing for life experiencesThe impact of mob podcasts on entertainment and storytellingThe importance of remaining alert and mindful The significance of neutral territory in organized crimeThe complex nature of loyalty and betrayal in criminal organizations The dangers of trusting the wrong people in the mafiaInsights into leadership and power dynamics within the mob Transitioning from a life of crime to a life of second chances and new beginnings.The challenges and revelations of life after the streets. Chapters 00:00 The Train Wreck Life02:11 Surviving the Mob Life03:26 Manipulating the System04:45 Mob Podcasts and Entertainment05:47 Living Vicariously Through Stories06:41 Survival Mode and Habits07:16 Remaining Alert and Mindful08:41 Street Rules and Survival Intelligence09:38 Living a Balanced Life12:24 Neighborhood Connections and Ties13:12 Mob-Run Joints and Neighborhood Circuits20:46 Neutral Territory22:26 The Frog and the Lily Pad29:05 Loyalty and Betrayal36:07 Al Diarco and Leadership46:48 The Dangers of Trusting the Wrong People50:11 Leadership and Power Dynamics55:12 Insights into the Colombo War01:03:23 Reflections on Mob Life and Associates01:08:11 The Unraveling Truth01:09:09 The Parole Office Visit01:10:28 The Picture at Billy's Club01:11:24 Transfer to Staten Island01:12:15 The Beginning of the End01:13:16 The Parole Office Visit01:14:12 On the Run01:16:09 The Beginning of the End01:16:37 The Suspicion of Homicides01:17:23 The Swan Song01:18:24 Life After the Streets01:25:14 Life in Prison01:27:31 Life After the Streets01:30:00 Closing Remarks

  7. Sep 4

    They Stole Big Paul’s Benz! — Andrew DiDonato: Part 2

    Part 2 goes even deeper. A quick note to our viewers: We experienced technical issues in our studio during the original broadcast and had to move to a different platform to complete the show. We apologize for any interruptions or changes in video quality. Thank you for your patience and for continuing to watch! Former Gambino associate and Surviving the Mob author Andrew DiDonato returns to share more unfiltered stories from inside New York’s Mafia world—including the day he stole Paul Castellano’s Mercedes-Benz! No Hollywood version. No holding back. Just the truth about the life, the legends, the loyalty, and the consequences. Join host Michael “Wheels” Parise for another explosive episode of How Not to Bomb Presents: No More Secrets. Watch, subscribe, and share—because Andrew DiDonato is just getting started.

  8. Sep 3

    Behind the Laughs: The Real Daniela Delfino

    The conversation covers Daniela Delfino's transition from a career in film distribution to stand-up comedy, influenced by her family's comedy culture. It also delves into her childhood, family dynamics, and the challenges she faced. The comedy scene and personal challenges are also explored. The conversation delves into the use of comedy as a coping mechanism during difficult times and the challenges of balancing personal life with a career in comedy. Daniela shares insights on finding humor in dark moments and the impact of personal experiences on comedic material. Additionally, the discussion explores the comedian's personal life, hobbies, and the need for downtime away from the stage. The conversation delves into Daniela's pursuit of genuine talent, strategic career planning, navigating different comedy scenes, the viral video experience and growth, perception vs. reality, intentionality and personal boundaries, strategic and calculated approach, perceived image vs. reality, protecting personal life and happiness, rapid fire Q&A and personal insights, upcoming shows and social media presence, and what makes Daniela laugh. Takeaways Comedy as a Family CultureTransition from Behind the Scenes to Stand-Up ComedyInfluence of Family on Comedy Style Using comedy to get through hard timesBalancing personal life and comedy career Focus on genuine talentStrategic career planning Chapters 00:00 Comedy Scene and Personal Challenges19:26 Using Comedy to Cope with Hard Times20:28 Balancing Personal Life and Comedy Career41:24 The Pursuit of Genuine Talent and Growth42:24 Expanding Beyond South Florida43:16 Navigating Different Comedy Scenes44:10 Viral Video Experience and Growth45:11 Perception vs. Reality46:11 Intentionality and Personal Boundaries47:04 Strategic and Calculated Approach48:10 Perceived Image vs. Reality49:04 Protecting Personal Life and Happiness50:20 Rapid Fire Q&A and Personal Insights52:26 Upcoming Shows and Social Media Presence53:25 What Makes Daniela Laugh

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About

How Not to Bomb Presents... Everybody's Got a Story is where compelling conversations meet real life. Hosted by comedian, entrepreneur, speaker, and author Michael "Wheels" Parise, this podcast features candid interviews with people from every walk of life—entertainers, business leaders, athletes, creators, and everyday individuals with extraordinary experiences. Every guest has faced challenges, celebrated victories, learned valuable lessons, and lived a story worth sharing. Through honest conversation, humor, and insight, Michael uncovers the moments that shaped their journey and the wisdom they've gained along the way. Whether you're looking for inspiration, motivation, laughter, or simply a great story, you'll find it here. Because everybody's got a story... and every story has the power to inspire someone else. New episodes every week. Hosted by Michael "Wheels" Parise.

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