Skills are skills. Christ-follower or not. That's why I've never understood the choice some Christians make to find a "christian plumber", "christian roofer", or a "christian surgeon." Skills are skills. You can be a Christ-follower and be a poor plumber, a rotten roofer or a scary surgeon. Skills are skills.
Before Michael Franzese was transformed by God's grace, he was among the best at what he did. He made money. Lots of money. He was a successful businessman - with the mob. Michael had... and has skills.
That's why I think you should read Michael's latest book, I'll Make You An Offer You Can't Refuse (Thomas Nelson). If you run a business, lead people, want to be successful in life, or want to better navigate a difficult financial climate, read Michael's book. Michael has skills.
And, Michael has met Jesus. And that's changed - not his skills, not his street smarts, not his seasoned experience - but, Jesus has changed his motivation (and he operates within the law now). And that changes the outcome.
That's why I recommend Michael's book to pastors and church leaders, too. Michael doesn't just understand financial success, he understands people, goals, and bottom-lines.
I had a chance to ask Michael some questions about his book. Read on to hear from Michael in his own words:
Me: Michael, your story of life inside, and outside, the mob is captured in a gripping way in your book, Blood Covenant. In it you shoot pretty straight about the change Jesus Christ has worked in your life. What motivated you to write this new book - about business?
Michael: There are business insights I wanted to share that I developed from my old life that I am sure would be beneficial for all those engaging in or planning to be in business today. Insights that can’t be learned in a classroom or boardroom but rather that were developed on the streets.
Me: In this new book when you mention the wisdom of Solomon from the Proverbs, you note: "Don't worry. This isn't about religion." In fact, I found the book in the business section at my local bookstore. Who's your audience?
Michael: Everyone in business, anyone thinking about going into business, and anyone who has a relative or friend in business. A Biblical standard on how to do business and Solomon lays it out clearly.
Me: You blow up the myth that we can be whatever we want to be, claiming we do more damage to the self esteem of young people than help. How does one line up their passion with their competence?
Michael: I believe that if we put Christ first in our lives He will direct us to what our Passion is and will be able to fulfill our passion and dreams in accordance with his purpose and plan for our lives.
Me: You cite several axioms from Solomon that espouse to the value of hard work. You sound like a workaholic. How does life "balance" look different now than when you were working within the mob?
Michael: My motivation and goals are much different today than they were when I was in the “life.” My goals back then were to be the best mob guy I could be, to rise in the ranks and to accumulate wealth. The mob life was very demanding and it required a tremendous amount of time, especially in my position as a Caporégime of the family. Today my goals are to serve God and family and to further the purpose of my ministry in whatever endeavor I undertake. Although that requires a significant amount of time, it is easier because each purpose serves the other.
Me: Should the local church have fewer board meetings and more "sit-downs?" What would that look like?
Michael: Yes, both business and board meetings would be much more efficient and productive than the ones I have attended since leaving the life. Objectives would be clear. Participants “would cut to the chase” and arrive at definite resolutions to whatever issues needed to be addressed.
Me: How can the local church benefit from your lessons on business?
Michael: The book provides clear insights into operating a business (church) and leading those under you with integrity. It prepares the church leaders for inevitable failures and the disappointments that are part of a ministry. It will also show pastors how to deal with success effectively and to be certain to give God all the glory.
Me: You've encountered a few critics who think your story is incomplete or is another money-making scam, suggesting you're
not really out of the mob. How do you respond to those critics?
Michael: Those critics really don’t understand the life. It would be virtually impossible to evade detection from informants (turncoats) and law enforcement for such a length of time. Anyone who has knowledge of the life would realize that.
Me: In your opinion is the Olive Garden chain of restaurants really Italian?
Michael: No! A great salad bar, but everything else is pretty generic! Fuggedaboutit!
Thanks, Michael! I'm looking forward to a potential connection this fall!
Don't hesitate: Buy the book here. Read more about Michael here.
He'll make you an offer you can't refuse.
