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Some names become legends. Others barely get mentioned. Who earned their reputation—and who gets more credit than they deserve? How Not to Bomb presents Straightened Out with Andrew DiDonato. Michael “Wheels” Parise and Andrew take on the mob’s biggest reputations, overlooked figures, and the difference between a famous name and respect within the life. Andrew shares personal anecdotes and his assessments of mob personalities, exploring how family connections, loyalty, toughness, and relationships shape a reputation. From Carmine Agnello and Gene Borrello to stories about fighters, celebrity encounters, and the surprising connection between wiseguys and pigeon coops, this conversation takes some unexpected turns. Plus, Michael and Andrew discuss the crowded world of mob podcasting and what Andrew brings to the conversation. Who’s overrated? Who’s underrated? And who was the real deal? Drop your picks in the comments. 👍 Like, subscribe, and follow @hownottobomb. 🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Deezer. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Popularity 03:04 The State of Mob Podcasting 05:58 Underrated and Overrated Mob Figures 08:50 A Closer Look at Mob Personalities 12:06 Legacy and Reputation 14:59 The Influence of Family Connections 17:55 Toughness and Loyalty 21:07 More Mob Figure Assessments 28:51 Carmine Agnello: A Real Character 29:40 Dinner with Legends 31:06 Pigeon Coops and Wiseguys 32:15 The Pigeon Connection 36:12 The Best Fighters in the Life 39:09 Shaking Down Drug Dealers 40:57 Overrated or Underrated? 41:23 Andrew’s Recollections of Ralphie Fly 45:52 Providence Connections 46:56 Carmine Agnello: Reputation and Reality 49:22 An Underrated Fighter 50:38 Celebrity Encounters 52:29 Discussing Gene Borrello 54:10 Bodyguard to the Stars 55:22 Final Thoughts and Future Shows A Parise Group Production. #StraightenedOut #AndrewDiDonato #HowNotToBomb #MichaelWheelsParise #MobStories #MobPodcast

Gambling has its highs and lows—and so does making a living in comedy. Comedian and actor Jimmy Della Valle joins Michael “Wheels” Parise on Everybody’s Got a Story for a candid, funny conversation about taking chances, surviving setbacks, and finding your way in entertainment. Jimmy shares stories about his gambling experiences, the influences that led him into stand-up, and the lessons learned when a performance falls flat. They get into his transition from comedy to acting, including his experience on The Sopranos, and what audiences rarely see about a comedian’s life on the road. Plus, Jimmy and Wheels discuss how social media has changed the comedy business, why a proper introduction matters, and what Jimmy has coming next. Two comedians talking about the work, the failures, and the stories behind the laughs. Subscribe to @hownottobomb and tell us in the comments: What was your favorite story from Jimmy? Jimmys Instagram Jimmy's Website Jimmy's Facebook CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Comedy and Life 03:14 Gambling: Highs and Lows 06:00 From Gambling to Comedy 09:02 Early Life and Influences 12:00 Starting a Comedy Career 15:04 Defining Moments in Comedy 18:00 Connecting with an Audience 20:54 Learning from Failure 28:40 From Stand-Up to The Sopranos 36:22 Life on the Road 40:09 Navigating Social Media Fame 44:01 New Projects and What’s Next 46:56 The Art of the Comedy Introduction #JimmyDellaValle #MichaelWheelsParise #EverybodysGotAStory #HowNotToBomb #StandUpComedy

The money stops. The favors stop. Who’s still there? On this episode of How Not to Bomb Presents: Straightened Out, Michael “Wheels” Parise and Andrew DiDonato examine the promises of mob loyalty—and what those promises are worth when you have nothing left to offer. Andrew reflects on the family gatherings, Christmas Eve traditions, and sit-downs that shaped his view of organized crime. He shares his perspective on how jealousy, technology, and shifting priorities changed that world, raising a question: was the brotherhood built on genuine bonds or mutual benefit? The conversation also explores life after witness protection, social media’s version of toughness, and the emotional costs of a criminal lifestyle. Drawing on his experiences, Andrew discusses trust, regret, honesty, and the lasting consequences behind the image of money and power. What would he want the next generation to understand before chasing that life? The image leaves a lot out. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Changing Landscape of Loyalty 02:12 Traditions and Family Dynamics 15:28 The Art of the Sit-Down 17:23 The Decline of Mob Culture 22:20 The Impact of Technology and Jealousy 25:06 Reflections on Wealth and Influence 31:15 Life After Witness Protection 33:34 Social Media and Modern Tough Guys 34:17 The Cost of a Criminal Life 37:03 Reflections on Brotherhood and Trust 38:42 The Reality of Loyalty in Crime 40:30 Nostalgia for the Past 52:46 Lessons for the Next Generation 53:15 The Illusion of the Criminal Lifestyle Subscribe to @hownottobomb and turn on notifications for more Straightened Out with Andrew DiDonato. Join the conversation: was mob loyalty ever unconditional? Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Deezer. A Parise Group Production #AndrewDiDonato #StraightenedOut #HowNotToBomb #MobStories #MichaelWheelsParise

The conversation was online. The surprise was in person. 😂 Michael “Wheels” Parise tells an outrageous online dating story in “Fat Chat”—where the woman he met didn’t quite match the expectations her profile set. From flirty chats to an unexpected first meeting, Wheels turns a dating disaster into a stand-up comedy story about profile promises and reality. Ever met someone who looked NOTHING like their dating profile? Tell us what happened in the comments. 👇 Subscribe to @hownottobomb for more comedy and stories from Michael “Wheels” Parise. #StandUpComedy #OnlineDating #MichaelWheelsParise Takeaways Humor in online datingMisrepresentation in profiles Chapters 00:00 The World of Online Dating01:02 Unexpected Encounters02:13 The Comedy of Misrepresentation

They’ll Sell You Anything in Tijuana! | Michael “Wheels” Parise Wheels went to Mexico—and the shopping became part of the show! 😂 Michael “Wheels” Parise shares his hilarious encounters in Tijuana’s bustling markets, where every price starts a conversation and there’s always something else for sale. From haggling with local vendors to feeling overwhelmed by the endless merchandise, Wheels finds comedy in the chaos and charm of the people he meets. Watch the bit, leave a comment, and subscribe to @hownottobomb for more comedy and stories. #MichaelWheelsParise #StandUpComedy #Tijuana #Mexico #HowNotToBomb Takeaways Humor in cultural experiencesUnique shopping in Mexico Chapters 00:00 The Allure of Mexico's Market02:50 Cultural Observations and Humor

Love for the Haters! | Straightened Out with Andrew DiDonato Andrew DiDonato has heard the criticism—and tonight, he’s answering it. On this episode of How Not to Bomb Presents… Straightened Out, Michael “Wheels” Parise sits down with former Gambino associate Andrew DiDonato to tackle viewers’ comments, questions, and accusations head-on. Andrew shares his perspective on his past in organized crime, his decision to cooperate with law enforcement, and the complicated relationships shaped by loyalty, betrayal, and survival. He discusses the consequences of his choices, how supporters and critics see him, and why he believes honesty matters when telling his story. Expect candid answers, uncomfortable questions, and a little love for the haters. Have a question or something to say? Leave it in the comments. Subscribe to @hownottobomb on YouTube for more Straightened Out and Everybody’s Got a Story. #StraightenedOut #AndrewDiDonato #MichaelWheelsParise #HowNotToBomb #OrganizedCrime Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage01:25 Responding to Viewer Criticism03:11 Clarifying Past Transactions05:30 Reflections on Cooperation and Reputation07:11 Confronting Drug Use Allegations10:41 Family Legacy and Personal Accountability12:55 Defending Personal Choices and Actions14:29 Addressing Tough Guy Perceptions17:44 The Frog and the Scorpion Story20:22 Criticism of the Platform and Its Purpose22:49 Clarifying Health and Drug Use Claims27:18 Final Thoughts on Haters and Life Experiences30:42 Navigating Loyalty and Betrayal34:14 Reflections on Past Relationships37:40 Addressing Criticism and Haters40:54 The Reality of Crime and Consequences44:00 Stories from Prison Life48:08 Friendships and Loyalty in the Underworld51:54 Future Plans and Show Direction56:26 Philosophical Insights on Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

The conversation delves into Jason Stuart's journey as a comedian and actor, highlighting his experiences of surviving rejection, staying true to himself, and breaking stereotypes as an openly gay comedian. It explores his transition from actor to comedian, early career challenges, and the impact of his flamboyant coming out on his comedic influence. Additionally, it discusses his pioneering role in the comedy industry and his navigation of acting roles, culminating in the production of a stand-up special. The conversation covers Jason Stuart's journey in the entertainment industry, from taking creative control to overcoming rejection and navigating political correctness in comedy. It also delves into his experience with challenging roles and the impact of cancel culture on the world of comedy. The conversation delves into the evolution of acceptance in comedy, highlighting the impact of racism and the changing landscape of the entertainment industry. It then explores the art of subtlety in film and the power of visual storytelling. Finally, it reflects on Jason Stuart's legacy, career highlights, and personal impact. Takeaways Surviving rejection and staying true to oneself is crucial in the entertainment industry.Pioneering as an openly gay comedian involves breaking stereotypes and navigating acting roles. Taking creative control of one's careerOvercoming rejection and persisting in the face of challenges The changing landscape of comedy and entertainment industry.The importance of subtlety and visual storytelling in film. Chapters 00:00 Surviving Rejection and Staying True to Yourself02:59 The Early Days of Comedy and Hiding Identity06:00 Transition from Actor to Comedian14:49 Competing on Star Search and Early Career Challenges17:04 Breaking Stereotypes and Pioneering as an Openly Gay Comedian18:30 Navigating Acting Roles and Producing a Stand-Up Special20:40 Flamboyant Coming Out and Comedic Influence21:46 Taking Creative Control23:01 Transition to Acting24:02 Balancing Seriousness and Comedy25:12 Career-Changing Role26:09 Success in Film Industry27:36 Overcoming Rejection28:54 Playing Challenging Roles31:18 Experience on 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia'32:38 Pride in Film Project33:29 Handling Rejection and Persistence34:09 Success with 'Smothered' Series36:30 Dealing with Rejection and Hollywood Challenges40:42 Impact of Rejection43:28 Navigating Political Views in Entertainment44:39 Role Selection Criteria45:04 Comedy and Cancel Culture45:22 The Evolution of Acceptance in Comedy53:19 The Art of Subtlety in Film56:02 Jason Stuart's Legacy and Impact