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