Here are the timestamps. Please check out our sponsors to support this podcast. 0:00 - Introduction & sponsor mentions: - Public Goods: publicgoods.com/lex and use code LEX to get $15 off - NetSuite: netsuite.com/lex to get free product tour - Blinkist: blinkist.com/lex and use code LEX to get 25% off premium - MasterClass: masterclass.com/lex to get 15% off - Onnit: lexfridman.com/onnit to get up to 10% off 3:15 - Early years 37:32 - Phishing and social engineering 55:36 - SolarWinds cyberattack 1:01:23 - Future social engineering fears 1:04:04 - Early cybercrimes 1:16:38 - Cybercrime entrepreneurship 1:20:06 - ShadowCrew 1:51:10 - Dark web 1:59:56 - ShadowCrew arrested 2:11:55 - Cybercrime 2:17:02 - Love 2:49:06 - Prison 3:17:18 - Life after prison 3:39:06 - Advice for young people 3:40:30 - Hope for the future 3:43:59 - Meaning of life

@korsakov1997

2 жыл бұрын

@@tannerannichiarico7255 shhh

@nielminor7529

2 жыл бұрын

His stripper girlfriend likely never stopped doing drugs. She hid it better.

@vanessa1569

2 жыл бұрын

@@npc2172 Ali G (if he can stop himself pontificating for 5 minutes) for shiz. Louis CK would be amazing but I doubt he’s doing any podcast; love him but he’s too much of a control freak …Ricky Gervais would be good as would Hugh Laurie.

@pb-vj1qs

2 жыл бұрын

Lex, this is very similar to gunmo's interview kzread.info/dash/bejne/mWqdybaDiMbXptI.html

@asap9779

2 жыл бұрын

@@tannerannichiarico7255 nah but like he would if he could

I'm glad he's seen the error of his ways, but I keep coming back to the people whose retirement accounts he robbed. Think about that. Working your entire life towards this goal and having it stolen from you. And then the guy who does it gets to act like a hero for turning his life around and yucking it up with Lex for 4 hours. Something about that just bothers me.

@ActivEthan

Жыл бұрын

Retirement accounts are covered, they’re fine.

@williamhodge8095

Жыл бұрын

I see your side well, but when look at how much congress representatives, like Pelosi and pretty much all of them come into office poor and with in a couple years are worth millions at our expense makes this guy look like small potatoes,, Just sad for us the citizens

@seannym95

Жыл бұрын

Dang… you ain’t wrong

@creationbeatsuk

Жыл бұрын

I had this exact same thought. As interesting as this guy is he has ruined lives. We turn people like this into celebrities, while people like us who try to do good for others get shit on in life. It's like when criminals start a legit business and get praised for turning their life around, well yeh... you stole a shit load of money from people, you have the cash to start your own business.

@ericavram361

Жыл бұрын

N😅hh m i gt ini😮 nn

It’s rare u can listen to someone you’ve never heard of for nearly 4 hours and immediately want another 4. This was off the charts

@jasonf3963

2 жыл бұрын

Exactly. I was so hooked.

@realjamesbond

2 жыл бұрын

@@jasonf3963 1

@watchprayact2069

Жыл бұрын

Not really, what keeps you hooked is wanting to know how a criminal can rip you off . In hopes they won't get you.

@GrittyC13

Жыл бұрын

Yeah I just saw his episode of koncrete, and clicked on this one immediately after finishing that entire episode. It’s the same story but I’m watching anyway for the details that may be in this episode that wasn’t in that one lol

@tpalden753

Жыл бұрын

@@watchprayact2069 or how you can be the criminal 👀

I can relate to his childhood. I was selling drugs at 12 to pay all the bills for my mom and moved out to live on my own at 14 and continued to selling massive amounts until I turned 18 and could get a job without a parent's signature. I took a huge pay cut but was able to get a license and buy a house and move to the county, start a landscaping business and I'm still in that house 22 years later. Now I have a metal fabrication shop.

@dreckigerdan3739

7 ай бұрын

and do you wonder how many people died because of your drugs?

@kittiesandcolas7957

7 ай бұрын

​@dreckigerdan3739 Why would he? Not once in my life have I met a dealer who forces anyone to buy..

@dreckigerdan3739

7 ай бұрын

@@kittiesandcolas7957 by your logic it's also okay to sell weapons, do even understand what kinda bullshit you wrote?

@ASTERisk44946

7 ай бұрын

@@kittiesandcolas7957 🤣

@kaspervestergaard2383

7 ай бұрын

@@dreckigerdan3739 One might hurt others. Drug don't directly hurt anyone else but those taking it. They know the risk. A person buying a weapon illegally, is very likely to go out and kill someone. Terrible example.

When you grow up in a cycle of dysfunction, drugs, and crime, your thinking and behavior will always be colored by this. Unless you’ve experienced it firsthand, it’s hard to grasp how difficult it is to break these norms. Congrats to this man for changing his life. These stories need to be told so those of us that have experienced it see examples of ones that make it out.

@sooperfly88

5 ай бұрын

Said well my friend

@forthehomies7043

3 ай бұрын

It's unfortunate because he will always have to live with what he's done. He grew up, and he's lucky to have done so because many criminals are not given that opportunity. He's addicted to the nature of crime, that's why he's doing what he does today, by helping catch the bad guys. Fortunately he's realized and had the opportunity to realize that being in prison isn't fun. I agree with you, and for most people it is impossible to break their habits.

@god_is_good493

3 ай бұрын

Truth!!! I've lived it and overcome a difficult childhood and young adulthood by testimony and faith in Jesus Christ.

@josephmcgrath5267

2 ай бұрын

1

@ALL_CAPS__

2 ай бұрын

@@god_is_good493 I’m glad for you. I’ve known a lot of people, some in my own family, that used religion or a 12 step program to overcome. whatever your difficulties are, keep and use whatever helps you stay clean or fly straight. As they say, "the program doesn’t work, unless you work it." I’m not a believer, or did not use religion, but I do like the saying " to each their own". all religious texts can help you be better. we just have to be sure we are using what can help people, and not the parts that hurt and tear down.

Oh man, the diversity of interviewees, this is such a special channel!

@ALCRAN2010

2 жыл бұрын

Try Soft White Underbelly channel

@ignasa007

2 жыл бұрын

oh wow, that's a great channel, thanks for the rcmd!

@michaelgorden8111

2 жыл бұрын

Almost like he learned from Rogan lol

@AJ-pc9gu

2 жыл бұрын

@@ALCRAN2010 great channel for individual stories, but doesnt do intellectual education as far as i know

@siamakkhodadoust6393

2 жыл бұрын

@@AJ-pc9gu I guess the challenge is upon us, the commentators, to come up with our own unique conclusion.

Best Lex Fridman episode ever. This guy could carry 8 hours of material. Well done. Esp staying out of his way and letting him talk.

@azithro8

2 жыл бұрын

Qwww

@jt9907

2 жыл бұрын

Best for me was Escobar’s pilot mule

@jspot_5198

2 жыл бұрын

My thoughts exactly

@anthonycarrasquillo5883

2 жыл бұрын

@@jt9907 no t a

@anthonycarrasquillo5883

2 жыл бұрын

@@jt9907 no t a

I can imagine a lot of people will think he’s cool while he’s laughing and joking like he doesn’t care what he’s done, he doesn’t seem sorry, he’s never to be trusted, but people will still fall for his bs, he’ll still manipulate people in a different way. He really is a narcissistic psychopath

@Lisabug2659

4 ай бұрын

How anyone would believe this guy is anything other than a Narc/psychopath is beyond me. He literally is enjoying his time reliving his sad and useless escapades. Such a BS artist. He’s criminal, manipulative and finds himself fascinating.

@SacredOwl

3 ай бұрын

Ya, it's obvious. When he pays his victims back and stops telling his story with glee, maybe I will change my mind, but probably not.

@peacepocket

2 ай бұрын

All the laughing is psychotic to me!

@jaygoodman2466

2 ай бұрын

Soo

@jimjones8967

Ай бұрын

But he's soo good at storytelling

I fell asleep with YT running in the background, I started having this crazy dream, and woke up and this guy was telling his story which was part of my dream…. This is crazy!

@juliecarr2465

6 ай бұрын

Same here!

@garrysekelli6776

6 ай бұрын

Also

@jimjones8967

Ай бұрын

This is actually a common occurrence among many people. Outside stimuli has a big effect on how your brain processes information while you are in different states of sleep. REM sleep is where the brain is influenced by outside stimuli the most.

@michaelstanley9143

Ай бұрын

Same. Wild police chase dream.

@stuntman0691

21 күн бұрын

Crazy exact same thing here lol

This guest came out of left field, Lex. Great job. People need to know that this type of story is a real thing in the US, the richest country on Earth. It's a surreal world we live in.

@loreneskidmore2591

2 жыл бұрын

"Richest country on earth" has a red flag and white cross. Economic wealth has been drained from us citizens for a long long time

@drewcookies

2 жыл бұрын

The US is the 8th ranked richest. Get your head out of your ass lol

@gustavsjokvist2668

2 жыл бұрын

Care to elaborate?

@gustavsjokvist2668

2 жыл бұрын

@Black2th that is

@ZandarKoad

2 жыл бұрын

But is this story real? The speaker is a self-labeled master manipulator. After listening to him speak for 5 minutes... I mean, there's just no way I can know for sure if important elements of his story are true.

"If you're addicted to something, you can not love anything else, except the addiction" - This line hit me on so many levels, and has put a lot into perspective

@mwalsh128

2 жыл бұрын

Amen to that!

@spacecees9013

2 жыл бұрын

The problem if You look bret in his eyes ,by the way blue means snakes oilsman

@CiCiLeathercraft

2 жыл бұрын

@Brett Johnson ok “Brett Johnson” I’m sure you’re really experienced with drugs 💀🤣 is this something you talked about in bible study?

@programmer1840

2 жыл бұрын

@Brett Johnson Great to have you in the comments, Bret. Thanks for the podcast. That point on addiction really resonated with me and it can be addiction to anything, like work.

@DotJus

2 жыл бұрын

Addiction is the progressive narrowing of what brings you joy.

I woke up listening to this podcast, dreaming about Prisons, and I learned 2 main things: 1. Listening to Lex Fridman's podcast's while sleeping makes you go trippin' 2. Never ever tell a prison inmate or guard or anybody that you're in there for "some computer crimes" even if you're a cybercriminal xD

@allenclark4235

6 ай бұрын

I woke up listening to Theo Von and Duncan Trussel. Much nicer experience lol.

@mcshwazy

5 ай бұрын

Yes! I had same experience but Lex had Donald Hoffman talking about reality. My dreams were of what he was talking about with consciousness and interfaces like what he was saying was directing my dream. When I woke up I was trippin and felt like I understood everything Hoffman was talking about in the pod. I went back and tried to watch the podcast again since i hadn't watched it prior to autoplay during sleep. When I really watched it while awake it made no sense. It was such a strange feeling I had waking up like things finally made sense and then just went away thru out the day.

@04dram04

5 ай бұрын

You shouldn't listen to any media while sleeping. That programs your subconscious mind. I recommend just white noise, to sleep

@allenclark4235

5 ай бұрын

@@04dram04So wouldn't the smartest thing be to let something educational play.

@sjmzeldaavgnfan

5 ай бұрын

No way! It happened to you too? I swear it happened to me as well!

So, as the owner of a Cybersecurity Provider firm that works to ensure guys like this aren't successful, I deal with guys like Brett daily. Ask him this... .did he go back and pay back ANY of his victims? NOPE. He's still bragging. The answer here is this.... If they sound like a used car salesman, walk away.

@Bri-254

6 ай бұрын

Exactly the guy is a absolute cretin.

@BulkernatorKerb

5 ай бұрын

If you knew what you're talking about you'd know their sentencing (especially for federal cases) almost always features "restitution" which is garnished from their income from the day of their sentence, even being garnished from their in-prison income.

@JasonWh

5 ай бұрын

@@BulkernatorKerb I’m a cybersecurity and forensics expert. Not a corrections or legal expert. The bragging is particularly disheartening and being I deal with scum like this daily, I have no tolerance for bragging. Perhaps I don’t know what I’m talking about. Who knows.

@rockitmeena

5 ай бұрын

@@JasonWh What did he brag about?

@JasonWh

5 ай бұрын

@@rockitmeena at the beginning, he laughed and bragged about his theft exploits. The smile on his face tells me he’s enjoying the retelling of his exploits. I deal with guys like this on a daily basis as rhetorical owner of a cybersecurity and forensics firm. Trying to save companies from these guys dealing with terrified business owners and smalll business employees who may not have a job the next day. Dealing with those who are being extorted and threatened with the disclosure of their data and the extortion of their clients. It’s an incredibly dirty and unsavory world masked as something else.

Lex BY FAR has the greatest introductions ever. They are so graceful, unequivocally precise, and greatly capturing. Rock on sir.

@ninajefferson4018

2 жыл бұрын

What's wrong w you. This dude stole masses of money from individuals. Not corporations from regular people. You should hate him not praise him cause he paid for his crime in prison. He didn't pay anyone back! He's a piece of garbage who should be made to pay back that lady he defrauded with the elephant.

@NexusOfBach

2 жыл бұрын

@@ninajefferson4018 Talking about Lex get off the pipe and stop looking for a fight

@leuquim

2 жыл бұрын

You mean unequivocally?

@NexusOfBach

2 жыл бұрын

@@leuquim yes I did! Ty for the catch sir.

@jeweltunstall7073

2 жыл бұрын

Very well said! Per usual it took me a Novelette to express your short and sweet and deeply meaningful perspective!!! Love this!!!

This was an incredibly fascinating conversation. Lex, you are KILLING these, please more of these cyber security/cyber criminal sit downs, they're fire

@ninajefferson4018

2 жыл бұрын

What's wrong w you. This dude stole masses of money from individuals. Not corporations from regular people. You should hate him not praise him cause he paid for his crime in prison. He didn't pay anyone back! He's a piece of garbage who should be made to pay back that lady he defrauded with the elephant.

@ErvNoelProduction

2 жыл бұрын

@@ninajefferson4018 nowhere in my comment did I say I liked him. I liked the conversation. Reading comprehension is essential. I also showed appreciation for Lex. If you don’t like the content, you can always watch something you enjoy. Wish you the best

@spacecees9013

2 жыл бұрын

Reed book John macfee

@spacecees9013

2 жыл бұрын

@@ErvNoelProduction at the moment cybercrime is even more dificult

@ninajefferson4018

2 жыл бұрын

@@ErvNoelProduction Whatev Erv.

@lexfridman 50% of your podcasts I could listen to another 4 hours of. This is one of those.

Hard to believe he became a criminal having such a fine upstanding mother in his life.

@raydead2670

5 ай бұрын

My mom does things similar but not as extreme. In terms of manipulation not selling drug nd illegal activities

@kennethianhusband7433

5 ай бұрын

Plenty of people have horrible parents but don't end up being a complete scumbag

@omnificad

5 ай бұрын

Sounds like a case of a mother with Borderline Personality Disorder

@007nadineL

5 ай бұрын

We can assume someone abused him as a child

@kennymacdowell1257

5 ай бұрын

I detect your sarcasm, but it’s truly sad for children to endure adult issues 26th year teaching elementary. :-(

textbook narcissism, psycopathy and antisocial personality disorder. the glibness, charm, recklessness, disregard for authority, manipulation of every character in his story. amazing interview - Lex just allowed him to speak

@kam1am

7 ай бұрын

So true

@xKarenWalkerx

7 ай бұрын

It’s actually Borderline. Borderline in men encompasses narcissism (grandiosity), psychopathy (factor 2), antisocial is psychopathy all with Borderline pathology organization (incredibly dangerous). His mother, by his description, is Borderline too, but more female typology. Borderline Personality Disorder is strongly associated with Native American admixture. Kentucky has high amounts of native Indian in the Anglo population. Johnny Deep also from Kentucky had a similar Borderline mother.

@MisterNMason

7 ай бұрын

Truth

@brezhnev89

7 ай бұрын

Exactly what I thought

@Zenden1ST

7 ай бұрын

@@xKarenWalkerx so borderline Personality Disorder is a racial trait now or just correlated to bad living environment???

At the minimum.... this is 1000x better than anything you've ever watched on cable TV.

@insigniamalignia

2 жыл бұрын

listen the fuck up randy whateverthefuck name travis, cable tv died in the 1980's. since then, it has been fake propaganda created by the fbi to brainwash us into buying products so that they can support their overseas operations

@justinesmith3498

2 жыл бұрын

If you like these kid of stories you should follow these 2 channels -Matt Cox True Crime -Koncrete

@thusomodika5065

2 жыл бұрын

00

@thusomodika5065

2 жыл бұрын

000

@thusomodika5065

2 жыл бұрын

@@justinesmith3498 0

This guy is getting a lot of pleasure telling his stories... I get the sense he still doesn't care about the hurt & trauma he has caused. I would believe he understands the gravity of his choices if he spent the rest of his life working to pay those poor people back. I appreciate the calm & quiet Lex maintains. He let's the guy spill & spill & spill.

@mcshwazy

5 ай бұрын

I kinda have feeling we are hearing a lot of untrue stories that aren't really ways to find out if what he says is true or not. He was supposedly this amazing theatre student. He is very skilled with his words.

@headhuntergaming0210

5 ай бұрын

i disagree

@victorblock3421

5 ай бұрын

He wouldn't do what he did if he had any moral compass. Incarceration didn't change him.

@rawgasmiclove

5 ай бұрын

@@victorblock3421 I do believe that people can change & see the error of their thinking but I agree with you. He hasn't changed. You can see be how much he's enjoying telling his stories &... when he gets emotional talking about the prostitute he shacked up with he's selfishly crying for himself.

@victorblock3421

5 ай бұрын

@@rawgasmiclove I certainly believe people can reform themselves from bad/negative things but it depends a lot on the motivation that person had or what their moral compass is. I make mistakes every day and made some big ones in the past but shame and my moral compass brought me back from the brink and set me straight. I didn't need counseling or any of that. Being more mature helped. The key is no bad screw ups and greatly exceed bad stuff with good stuff.

Brett's honesty is there for everyone to see.

@happytrailsgaming

3 ай бұрын

Hopefully you’re being sarcastic 😅 Dudes full of shit

Seriously sat here and watched entire 3 hours and 47 minutes of this epicness ♾☀️🖤 thanks lex appreciate your time and consideration!!!

@seanmichael7714

2 жыл бұрын

Same so amazing

@user-sw2tt9nl8y

2 жыл бұрын

This podcast is like listening to a movie like 'Blow'! Amazing!! Tanx a lot @lex

@rrek7

2 жыл бұрын

Click the ellipses (three dots in top right hand screen) and change the playback speed to 2. Cuts time in half ;)

@treverdrew6993

2 жыл бұрын

You skipped the last 25 seconds? What's wrong with you?! Lol ...this is an amazing interview.

@morganowo1350

2 жыл бұрын

Same. First time, too.

This is the best podcast I've ever came across. I love the diversity of ppl he's able to bring on here it's actually impressive

@MrDonpasqualino

2 жыл бұрын

This one and Soft White Underbelly on KZread

@ninajefferson4018

2 жыл бұрын

What's wrong w you. This dude stole masses of money from individuals. Not corporations from regular people. You should hate him not praise him cause he paid for his crime in prison. He didn't pay anyone back! He's a piece of garbage who should be made to pay back that lady he defrauded with the elephant.

@jonmarquis4952

2 жыл бұрын

@@MrDonpasqualino I'll have to check that one out as well....used to watch jre til he went to Spotify but lex definitely gets great guests on here

@otkspazz103

Жыл бұрын

@@MrDonpasqualino kw

@lilnato4248

Жыл бұрын

@@jonmarquis4952 he😊😊j 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊in

I cannot relate to any of his story...at the same time I find it fascinating!! I hope Brett has a much better life today. The lessons he has to of learned...amazing. Amazing story. Thank you for sharing.

Lex is really good at asking the questions that will get interesting philosophical and/or emotional answers.

Absolutely the very best interview I've heard. Lex, this interview has been positively entertaining with educational insight as to the behavioral motivation, actions and consequences, for better or worse of a decent human being. I feel Brett is a success in many ways, more than I'll ever know. His story has inspired me on this quiet Sunday afternoon. Lex, I gave you 3 hours by listening to the interview and I'm certain I've spent my time wisely. This interview has reinforced to me that most decisions are made "to arrive at a destination by means of least resistance" whether metaphorically or not, changes are made due to lifes' impedances or a fear of consequences. I believe that when life becomes unmanageable , a person can truly do good for others and themselves and hopefully create change. I appreciate your work . Thank you for sharing the awesome results of your time and efforts. I'm certain what you do is not easy . You're truly a professional. Well done and thank you. Best Regards, LTH

@davidcagle920

2 жыл бұрын

Don't forget those 47 minutes too Also this guys learned to code.

@crbradbury8282

2 жыл бұрын

Brett's honestly and cohones shined brightest in this one sir. Lex does absolutely amazing in every interview, that's a given

@taintedsasquatch398

2 жыл бұрын

If this is the best you haven’t seen very good interviews before.

@auspicioustoot

2 жыл бұрын

Well Brett has turned his story into a novel basically so that he can sell it.

@lang1892

2 жыл бұрын

nothing beats elon interview tho😙

It is terrifying that such a compelling and articulate person could be so casually evil.

@MrThenry1988

Жыл бұрын

I'm skeptical

@crilf5830

Жыл бұрын

i couldn't agree more.

@jacobgirman6352

11 ай бұрын

Master social engineer

@flowerwater9136

11 ай бұрын

It is also terrifying how casually evil his mother is to her own child.

@equaliser2265

11 ай бұрын

Articulate? Hahahaahah

I literally sat the whole interview and oh man was this a good one thanks for sharing

I am a therapist. I have worked in private practice and with people getting out of prison. I did CBT both types of spaces. I believe it makes a difference. I have listened to this 2 times. I find it fascinating. I have been a therapist for 25 years.

Brett is an excellent story teller. Thoroughly enjoyed this episode. Thank you Lex and Brett for this fantastic episode.

@ninajefferson4018

2 жыл бұрын

What's wrong w you. This dude stole masses of money from individuals. Not corporations from regular people. You should hate him not praise him cause he paid for his crime in prison. He didn't pay anyone back! He's a piece of garbage who should be made to pay back that lady he defrauded with the elephant.

@jimmicrackhead12

4 ай бұрын

He's lying

@trevor4175

3 ай бұрын

​@@ninajefferson4018don't be mad at someone because they don't hate someone enough, that's a bad reason.

I can listen to this guy tell stories all day long. Lex has a knack for finding these people, sitting them down and getting the best from them. Always wondered why his podcasts were so long, now I know why. Compelling interview.

I commend you for what you are doing with your channel. Thank you for allowing us to hear stories straight from the people who lived them.

Lex this has got to be one of your best interviews ever. Elon musk, bustamante and this guy. I have listened to all 3 interviews like 30x each

@brettjohnsonshow

3 ай бұрын

Thank you for listening!

@jaredcrenshaw7665

3 ай бұрын

Bustamante? That dude us a total slimy scammer.

@SteelxWolf

2 ай бұрын

@@jaredcrenshaw7665well he is a government agent. Thats their game lol

This was incredible. As somebody who started his life off not as a choirboy much like Brett Johnson did. This podcast brought back a lot of memories of the old me. And he's absolutely right and I don't know if it's former criminals only that want to live their life in this fashion. But he is absolutely 1000% correct. It's all about how can I benefit somebody else. Service over self. Famous quote that help change my life in a very dark time was from Gandhi and he said "if you want to find yourself lose yourself in the service of others" that's probably a paraphrase and you're welcome to Google the exact quote. But it changed my life. Just like this man. Unfortunately I did not have to go through what he did to get myself on track. I did unfortunately have to deal with the Secret Service and I can say they were extremely professional and very good at what they did. But if anybody's reading this take my word for it and Brett Johnson's word for it and try your best to help others, make the world a better place to live in, open doors for old people when you're not having a good day. The getting is in the giving. Thank you for listening to my TED talk. Lol

This guy is happy where he is now, and would not change anything in his past because he would not be where he is now... He caused so much pain and suffering and we, as society, are feeding him now. He doesn't deserve to be concerned a hero!

@SP-iv2jj

Жыл бұрын

agreed

@coryaw95

Жыл бұрын

He has served his time. He is allowed to be satisfied with who he is.

@anthonysteen56

Жыл бұрын

And what if you made a list of your shortcomings, rules and laws you’ve broken? What if you shared them publicly? How do you imagine the people would think of you?

@mrbananaflasher

Жыл бұрын

@@Cookieisaqueer Sounds like you don't believe in redemption. That being your opinion you're obviously entitled to, but you don't fundamentally get to dictate the inner state of any individual; regardless of their actions. Especially when your virtues are predicated on the belief of being better than someone. If you truly believe in what you say, then your problem wouldn't be with the individual, rather the justice system as a whole. What is the purpose of serving a sentence then, if not to pay for what you've done?

@mrbananaflasher

Жыл бұрын

He would not change anything in his past, because he can't. This is a foolish statement. To me this seems to be made to invoke a reaction because it literally has no other purpose or meaning. Him not deserving being 'concerned a hero' is a valid opinion, yet I've not seen a single comment stating this. Again, stated to invoke a reaction. Saying anyone doesn't deserve, or denying an individual happiness regardless of their actions, only reflects upon your own poor sense of worth. How can you find happiness unless you accept things, including the past, as they are?

What an opening👏👏👏 Can't wait to hear more stories like this, thank you Brett!

Idk how this channel keeps popping up on my auto play. I usually let KZread auto play for hours, and lately about half the time I do this I see an interview from this channel. I'm always waking up to it or falling asleep to it. But today, this interview actually caught my attention. I'm going to subscribe now, and go down the rabbit hole of interviews I've missed!!

Lex, I really like your interviews with criminals that turned their lives around. Like this one with Brett Johnson and Roger Reaves. Its very interesting.

@CincyPharmer

2 жыл бұрын

Roger Reaves interview was one of my top 10 podcast episodes ever. It was like listening to Bob Ross paint stories about cocaine trafficking. Incredible.

@Patso44

2 жыл бұрын

@@CincyPharmer underrated Bob Ross comment!

@chrisruskai9341

2 жыл бұрын

It makes you wonder though. Did he turn it around or is it another scam?

@Shiyounin

2 жыл бұрын

They aren't 'turning their lives around'. They get caught and then go where the money is.

@jeweltunstall7073

2 жыл бұрын

@@chrisruskai9341 Again I love this! You’ve so sweet and short summed up my novelette!! Exactly it feels as if he may never be capable of truly being a permissive or trash his criminal minded justifications of being a predator even after himself being traumatized. Thank you I appreciate this well said comment!!!!

Love Brett's openness. Sharing history, no matter how challenging, helps so many!!

@sepi372

Жыл бұрын

He lies that’s why it’s exciting. Just sounds like every other b.s. artist. Total garbage not a human being.

@LoremLorem

Жыл бұрын

I think around 2:10, when opens up about lying, I first time felt love towards him. He is smart, he knows what he has done. If only all these smart griminals used their power to change the world to good. If anyone, I assume they know how to do it. Don't you? Peace and love man, not suffering.

I listened to the whole thing! So fascinating!!!!! Thank you

What a great episode 🙏🏻 A lot of lessons to be learnt from it. Thank you for sharing Lex!

I feel like I just heard the most persuasive psychopath on earth. It’s stunning how much I want to enjoy his shocking and terrifying stories told with such laughter.

@JoeyVol

Жыл бұрын

Most psychopath's merely hide the fact that they are so; Therefore you have to study those in your life and especially public figures who "have you" under their guise.

@pinkysidealmond2854

Жыл бұрын

100 💯

@LetsGetSmarted

Жыл бұрын

most psychopaths are persuasive, they just don't let you in on the lie, so you assume they're normal.

@bernardinelane1718

Жыл бұрын

Hard to believe. Thinking Bret’s acting skills were masking some truth in his story.

@DrumL3000

Жыл бұрын

I think the mom is the worst.

Imagine what this guy has done that he's not telling.

@alexacosta2140

2 жыл бұрын

That’s a good point

@justinesmith3498

2 жыл бұрын

Probably next level degenerate sex and drugs.

@chriss1672

Жыл бұрын

I’m sure there’s a few bodies he isn’t talking about

@dibaz1

Жыл бұрын

Can you imagine what devastation he could do!

@CCC0122

Жыл бұрын

Sometimes the attention one gets from telling a surreal, extremely intense true story, can trigger a person to continue with different stories that may be totally fraudulent. Amazingly enough, the man seems to have some serious things to feel guilt or shame for. These childhood stories can be true; if so, is it an excuse for some sociopathic tendencies but my attitude towards this , is at what point in your life do you stop making excuses and start building a new set of healthy memories. I wish him luck, And God Bless

Of all the interviews Lex has done (that I’ve watched) I remember this one more than any.

@brettjohnsonshow

7 ай бұрын

Thank you for listening

Hand's down the best conversation I have seen in a podcast. Much love to you both! Thank you for sharing.

@josephmorgan2981

Ай бұрын

This is the best episode you’ve seen Homie why?

@bohemianlamb4309

28 күн бұрын

@@josephmorgan2981 That's a really hard one to justify given all the amazing people he has interviewed. I would say with a little more thought it feels the most relevant to current events. With all the lie's, scams, and world changing tech out there this episode gives many a glimpse of how it operates behind closed doors. Brett's honesty was refreshing.

This is a great interview and the fact that it is in all likelihood another act of social engineering makes it all the more interesting.

@SilentShiba

2 жыл бұрын

I was thinking about that too. This guy doesn't think anything like me, but why do I like him so much?!

@bezzzbezzy473

2 жыл бұрын

@@SilentShiba because he is a great con Artist

@kurt6469

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, notice how he avoids answering any details and instead just sorta steam rolls over Lex. I wonder if even half his story is true.

@selbstbestimmt

2 жыл бұрын

The power of psychopaths.

@halbrooks4654

2 жыл бұрын

@@selbstbestimmt My sentiments exactly, Not much emotionally centered,( sympathy/ empathic) expression, with Brett. The dudes got an attitude, of not my fault, look at my bad upbringing. BS, He knew the difference between right and wrong, but chose to do wrong. I'm, not getting any real vibes of compassion or regret, from this predator,he was stealing vunerable ppls life savings. DISPICABLE

2:13:50 "Crime is an addiction......" This answers a question I needed answered. Super great conversation.

People may think he’s exaggerating about how things are around here but I can assure you it’s even worse now then what he’s explaining. As hard as that is to believe. Kudos to this guy for not letting the toxicity of eastern Kentucky keep him down forever because most people around here stay here until they die.

Some might despise this guest, but he's highly intelligent and carries a metric ton of real life wisdom. We should all be happy that he's supposedly turned his life around.

The famous charm of the sociopath is chillingly on display. Lovable, infectious laugh. The pain he caused is touched upon but eventually lost in the entertaining recounting of his adventures.

@Whatintheworld259

2 ай бұрын

Yeah it’s worth seeing so we can recognise it. Sad for the victims loosing their savings

When Lex said, “I always wear my heart on my sleeve. If I get hurt for it? That’s life” how sorrowful that we live in a world where some people that are so unconditionally full of love have to coexist with people that only know hate and dishonesty. Sadly, we can only hope that love overshadows the hate. Keep grinding Lex 🤟🏼

@malikialgeriankabyleswag4200

2 жыл бұрын

I don't agree with your dualism

@nicoleselsky7273

2 жыл бұрын

@@malikialgeriankabyleswag4200 I don’t even know what that means? I just meant like there is happiness and sadness, it sucks that really good people encounter the worst of the worst of other people sometimes. I don’t have to agree… since it’s also a personal view, I haven’t met too many good people in my life but that doesn’t mean I don’t know that good people are out there/exist

@novictim

2 жыл бұрын

Everyone is evil in the wrong circumstances. And the other way round. People that are unaware aren't aware of being unaware. Everyone thinks they are justified in their actions.

@nicoleselsky7273

2 жыл бұрын

@@novictim Oh I like this

@malikialgeriankabyleswag4200

2 жыл бұрын

@@nicoleselsky7273 I know I'm just saying sometimes when we get fed up of the bad things we like to escape to this very well defined world of good people here vs evil people there.. and then we get tricked into wars lol

Brett you are a born teacher. You are not only smart, but compelling. Lex thanks for the long form dives you offer. Outstanding .

This is a fantastic interview.. It certainly not the only one. I'm glad I found this podcast.. thanks for your dedication and hard work

@brettjohnsonshow

3 ай бұрын

Thank you for listening!

@laurakosch

3 ай бұрын

@@brettjohnsonshow How do you feel about the comments that assess your personality? Especially those that remain skeptical… It must feel a bit irritating to be faced with people who are confident that they know the “real” Brett…

@brettjohnsonshow

3 ай бұрын

@@laurakosch First, thank you for listening. I appreciate it. As far as the negative comments? Well, I cannot control those, nor would I want to. The positive response far outweighs the negative, so I'm pleased. That said, some of the negative comments do cause me to think if the person were watching the same interview as others

@laurakosch

3 ай бұрын

@@brettjohnsonshow These comments mainly reveal the speakers’ own hearts. In our house, the one rule we have is no mind reading. We cannot know what is in someone else’s heart, or what is motivating them. To accuse someone in this way is arrogant and foolish.

@brettjohnsonshow

3 ай бұрын

@@laurakosch Thank you. Truly

Lex this is upper level conversation. You’re a legend for this one. So good

This guy is like the Breaking Bad version of Dave Ramsey 🤣. Amazing story this should be a movie - It’s like Catch Me If You Can meets Shawshank Redemption meets Breaking Bad meets Wolf Of Wall St

@landenx

2 жыл бұрын

😂😂 literally same voice

@Jaspermoises1835

2 жыл бұрын

Holy crap! I thought the EXACT SAME THING!! 🤣

@barryroodhuizen2365

Жыл бұрын

😂😂

@ericwilson2632

Жыл бұрын

Dam....

@jacobdorph816

Жыл бұрын

Perhaps Hollywood screenwriter will pick upp om this imterview and present new movie idea, "The Social Engineer"

Lex in your opening commentaries exactly how u feel, your podcast is amazing and I hear it more and more everyday and I appreciate you for at least trying to get through to some, to create a better understanding for all of us thank you ❤️✌️🐜

This is a fascinating and a scary interview. Indeed he is incredibly charismatic. Hilarious, I must say... And to boot his accent is my favorite sort of Southern accent, sweet like honey.. BTW It's worth every second of this interview in order to get to the part where he explains how he became older and wiser and had a character reversal- a powerful humility in the end!

@MJ-qg1tk

6 ай бұрын

How is your history with men? You don't seem very critical.

@BeauSearow

2 ай бұрын

How about the people's lives he destroyed? How are they currently doing?

The more I watch Lex, the more I am liking him and getting hooked on his podcast. Used to be a JRE fan for years but I’ve switched to Lex, I trust him more and I think it’s a better program.

@jhorsechief

Жыл бұрын

Lex challenges his guest on a human level that we can all relate to

@rmdbourg

Жыл бұрын

Lex is light years more intelligent than Joe…and Joe isn’t a dummy

@ericvoots

Жыл бұрын

Thats because Lex doesn't tell the same 10 anecdotes every episode

@callancollins7708

Жыл бұрын

@@ericvoots or make every conversation about trans or the pandemic

@stevrgrs

Жыл бұрын

As many people have stated prior, Lex is the intellectuals JRE :P

This is going to be a good one. Plus 3hrs. Love how you do longer content lex. Ok let's check this out!

This mans truth and Story, must be made in to a movie ! Its complete with such honesty, and a youthful, and heartbreaking love story ! Its actually such a beautiful love story this is the second time ive listened to this complete episode ! I can hear his heart continue to break as he tells the story !

Fascinating interview, his life can be made into a TV series or a movie.

This almost 4 hours, but I can't stop watching. What an fantastic interview.

@surfingtothestars

2 жыл бұрын

now you see how he could easily manipulate and scam people lol

Hey Lex could you please tell Brett that there's an opening for a leadership position at the Thieves Guild, I already have too much on my plate as Archmage of the college

@mikemyer3361

Жыл бұрын

Wait I’m the grey fox now soooo what’s wrong with the guild?

@mikeg4691

Жыл бұрын

STOP You have violated the law!

@taglor

Жыл бұрын

I'd help out but I'm tending to my knee. It took an arrow 🥸

@Jayfordy

Жыл бұрын

I will be awaiting him in Riften, unless you see the meeting more fit for Whiterun.

@Ultimate9tailchakra

Жыл бұрын

What In the secret code is going on here?

Riveting conversation. Thank you both

Fantastic story and lessons… Brett is Dave Ramsay’s voice twin. I kept hearing Dave talking about debt and income and getting rid of car payments while he talked. 😅

@josephkraus

6 ай бұрын

💯

at first glance, i passed over Lex multiple times. But man, he has me hooked. Mindful, interesting, and inquisitive.

About 2 1/2 hours in I forgot I was even watching a Lex Fridman interview. Had a split second doing other things, I almost thought I was watching a movie.

Fascinating interview. Gonna look into Brett further. I don’t like the interviewer’s style but appreciate his effort and access to this type of insight.

@brettjohnsonshow

7 ай бұрын

Thank you for listening. I appreciate it. Brett

Lex you’ve quickly become one of my favorite channels. Love all the different aspects of life you touch on and for some reason it’s all topics I’m interested in. Hope you never quit!

As it happens, I watched the interview with Chris Tarbell then this one. Chris mentioned that he didn't have any anger towards the people he took down, but that Brett really pissed him off. It would be a very interesting show to see Lex moderate a back-and-forth style Q&A between Chris and Brett. I'm sure they would venture into some engaging technical areas, but the conversation around actions and their consequences would be intriguing. This idea would probably be something Lex could do with many of his guests since he talks with such wide ranging subjects. His calm and deliberate demeanor would most definitely produce some great conversations.

@Mdautkreix

Жыл бұрын

Would love this.

@sheenatiller3502

Жыл бұрын

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 I’d like to see that.

@tylermiller8142

Жыл бұрын

I could see how Brett would piss him off 😂😂 that’s a good idea though I would watch

@321JKilla

Жыл бұрын

brett > chris

@douglasbennett1768

Жыл бұрын

@@321JKilla Maybe... Brett has an amazing ability to understand systems and , I'd say, to instinctively identify vulnerabilities. Chris is a protector with an ambush predator's patience. He'll poke and prod and eventually find that one thing that let's him get his man. Both men have genuine skills and those skills come with upsides and downsides for those around them depending on how they're utilized. They have different moral compasses. That's why I think it would make for a good talk, as long as there's a moderator who can keep them on track and away from each other's throats. I see a possibility of genuine hostility developing in the absence of third party guidance.

Lex, you have become such an amazing interviewer. The way you steer the interview, ask the right questions at the right time; I can't tell you enough how much I appreciate you and the work you put into this podcast. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Lex.

I had the pleasure of being given a Top-Secret classified briefing on Cybersecurity as it relates to industry in 2021 (in light of Colonial Pipeline). After that briefing I bought: 6 month supply of rations (rice, salt, supplements) with supplements A 9mm pistol with 1000 rounds of ammo Water filter system Backlog of prescription meds (3 months best I can get)

@Linux333

15 күн бұрын

So you’re a crazy person..

One of the best interviews to date. We need more of these kind of guests.

@brettjohnsonshow

2 ай бұрын

Thank you so much for listening. I appreciate it

Being a "very good social engineer", as he says, in conjunction with what he's known for and what he brags about, the smart move would be to disbelieve everything he says. Bringing my own experience with social engineers/manipulators into focus, my sensors go off when he talks. What makes this most interesting, and lends to his ability to social engineer, he even explains how he's engineering us, the audience, as he does so @ 44:50

@sacredflowspace

2 жыл бұрын

Very interesting imma have to go back n check it….

@nou6587

2 жыл бұрын

He still doesn't care. Just less risk and maybe more beneficial to be "legit" at this point in his life.

@adamlane6453

2 жыл бұрын

Reminds me if that scene from A Scanner Darkly... "See, the guy never really posed as any of it. He only posed as a worldfamous imposter. Turns out he just pushed a broom at Disneyland, until he read about this actual world-famous imposter, and he thought, I can pose as all those things, then he thought, hell, I'll just pose as an imposter. Save a lot of time, a lot easier. Made almost as much money as the real imposter with books and movie rights."

@chadeddy5042

2 жыл бұрын

He's a POS, still full of it. Just yuck!

@ReedoAce

2 жыл бұрын

@@chadeddy5042 he’s definitely 2 faced going against his own crew. Trust no one

This might be one of my favourite interviews to date. Not only is Brett an incredible story teller (and has an incredible story) but I feel, it is only on the Lex Fridman podcast that a conversation can hold the vulnerability and complexity of the human condition. I am always so appreciative of the way Lex interviews with heart, with holding that space for the guest to speak their truth. That silent support, that space leaves so much room for emotion and beauty. Thank you for creating that space Lex. Thank you Brett for your truth.

@JoseMartinez-zh1tk

Жыл бұрын

Good point and well said.

Lexington. Your ruthless... yet sensitive. Understanding. Yet firm. I like you brother. Your fair. Your humble. Your righteous !!!!!! Love ya brother

The ending quote was spot on

This is one of the very few if not only 4 hour interview i can watch in one sitting; and even come back to and revisit, and still not be bored. Any other interviews from this guy?

This is actually a really good PSA for cybersecurity.

Great show Lex. I understand both sides of issues with crime n redemption. No judgement. Im glad that he’s a solid human being. Redemption and purpose are essential for those who desire change.

His story about snapping put of nowhere reminds me of that recent story of that guy jumping over the Judge's tsble to attack her out of nowhere. Maternal parental abuse is less talked about but often creates monsters.

This was such an incredible conversation. I work information security for a financial institution and it’s fascinating to hear about the other side of my business. I was on the edge of my seat for the entire conversation, he’s an incredible speaker. Lex you did an amazing job guiding the conversation and getting out of his way to let him tell his story. One of the best episodes ever and a testament to how good of an interviewer you have become!

Lex really shedding a light on a lot of the dark corners of our society. Great work here.

Amazing interview, when you walk with the wolves long enough eventually you lead the pack. And True Romance is an incredible film just watched it for the 100th + time the night before last. Dennis Hopper, Christopher Walken, Gary Oldman ,Brad Pitt, Christian Slater,even Balki from Perfect Strangers the late 80's early 90's sitcom otherwise know as Bronson Pinchot, and it wouldn't be a movie especially a Tarantino film without Samuel L. Jackson. Truly an all star cast. While Quintin didn't direct it he did write it. The dialogue between Walken and Hopper is brilliant and Clarence and Drexel. My favorite movie. Anyhow the algorithm threw this on when I was cooking dinner and I was hooked right out the gate. Here I am 3 hours later still listening.

I watched the whole interview closely hoping to see real remorse, it’s very clear that this was all just bragging and proud of what he did, and still is proud about the things and amounts he pulled off

@ComicBookVault

4 ай бұрын

The way he even said he is an amazing actor. Just pure narcissist, he’s so gullible of himself

@TheREALJackFurious

4 ай бұрын

Like he has ALL these talents the world needs to know about. As Conor said, “who the fook is this guy?”

This guy has lived an insane life. Thanks for the honesty Brett.

@rootbeer4888

2 жыл бұрын

He prolly sugar coated and left plenty out he is a manipulator. I will give him the benefit of the doubt but lets be real here.

@tiemen88

2 жыл бұрын

I think he is not honest. You might be tricked here.

@rootbeer4888

2 жыл бұрын

Sorry but you realise you are the type he would have con'd right lol

@onewiththeragingwind6730

2 жыл бұрын

@@rootbeer4888 he knows his shit w scams but i dont believe much about his story

@taintbrush237

2 жыл бұрын

As someone who grew up with a pathological liar father, I urge you to be on the side of caution when believing anything this guy says. Stay safe

One of the most incredible podcasts I’ve ever seen hands down. Extremely affecting, deep, and dripping with wisdoms.

@andersestes

2 жыл бұрын

yes,agreed

Lex, is was a fantastic interview bud. Nice job. Super proud of you. You are truly a delight and I love you so much.

That was the most interesting,engaging guest you have ever had on your show. Well done lex.

Thank You Lex ! These Podcast have really been a beacon of hope for me ! Thank for doing you and being you !

@bobbybrown5217

2 жыл бұрын

💯✌️

Lex. You handle each person before you with grace, with curiosity, with warmth, and with love. In return you have cultivated what has become a beautiful place of refuge and sanity in a divisive world. I hope you appreciate what a gift this is for us

What a compelling interview! I really enjoyed it.

I thoroughly enjoyed the frank and honesty conveyed by brett

This was the first time I’ve heard a Lex Fridman podcast and I gotta say I really enjoyed it. I’ll be talking about it with friends as well as finding another episode. Very entertaining and I enjoy the questions Lex asks.

@burtonlee8642

Жыл бұрын

I am not sure if I have heard a better podcaster/interviewer.

@justlucky8254

Жыл бұрын

Joe Rogan has always been my favorite and one of his interviews with Lex led me here. Now I have two favorite podcast hosts.

I was planning on watching 5-10 mins jjsut to see what this guy was about. and i stayed the whole fucking show. Amazin conversation. i'll be definetely following brett's podcast

@egoten5578

2 жыл бұрын

I did the exact same thing! Lol

@einnor165

2 жыл бұрын

100% same here

Brett has such an interesting story man. A good example of how all of us can turn things around in a positive way, no matter what

@jaymanishere13

6 ай бұрын

He still stole many people’s retirement funds and permanently ruined their lives

One of the most fascinating interviews ever!! Thank you for this! I’m a USAF Vet and former Women’s Prison CO. Thank you for sharing your story! Respect.

This is probably the most beautiful conversation I have ever heard in my entire life… I will never forget this one! Bravo.

Especially important episode. Keep getting reformed citizens, rebels, and critics. Alongside the awesome giants these episodes really help provide a honest, helpful insight of humanity.

This was the most incredible story I've seen so far on Lex. Always awesome content. This was very strong. This would be hella book!