Former 'Bath Salts' Trafficker | Justin Smith

TL;DR

A former drug trafficker shares his prison experience and newfound entrepreneurial journey.

Transcript

thanks for coming on justin thanks for having me in florida where are you where are you where do you live now i live in ohio right now okay so uh basically i want to just introduce your story real quick and then you can uh you can elaborate but basically you did you were sentenced to 12 years in prison for trafficking bath salts from china right yo... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥺 The transition from illegal activities to legal entrepreneurship can often lead to significant personal transformation.
• 💭 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy proves effective in reorienting individuals' mindsets, enabling them to connect feelings and actions to thoughts.
• 🌥️ Government regulations and criminalization of drugs reflect a larger systemic issue that complicates societal healing and growth.
• ✊ Cryptocurrency presents a disruptive potential to traditional banking systems and can be an avenue for marginalized individuals to regain financial power.
• 🖐️ Relationship-building and networking play critical roles in entrepreneurial success, especially for those reinventing themselves post-incarceration.
• 🤳 Experiences in prison, while challenging, can serve as powerful catalysts for personal growth and self-awareness.
• ⚖️ Balancing risk and patience is crucial in trading and investment strategies, particularly in the volatile crypto market.

Questions & Answers

Q: What led you to start trafficking synthetic drugs, and how did it begin?

The speaker was introduced to synthetic drugs while playing poker and saw the opportunity to profit from selling them to head shops. This led him to explore chemistry and eventually establish a trafficking operation focused on research chemicals, unaware of the severe consequences that would follow.

Q: Can you describe the circumstances surrounding your arrest?

The speaker describes a dramatic early morning raid where federal agents stormed his home, pointing weapons at him and arresting him. This shocking encounter marked the beginning of his understanding of the consequences of his choices and the severity of federal law enforcement tactics.

Q: How did prison life change your perspective on your past actions?

In prison, the speaker underwent significant personal growth. He reflected on his actions, realized the harm he had caused, and committed himself to becoming part of the solution by helping others, thus developing a different outlook on life and his previous choices.

Q: What techniques did you learn in the RDAP program that impacted your life?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of cognitive behavioral therapy techniques learned in the RDAP program. These techniques helped him understand the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and actions, enabling him to reassess his thinking patterns and develop healthier behaviors moving forward.

Q: What strategies did you implement after prison to reintegrate into society?

After release, the speaker utilized his experience to build his business project, Contractor Plus, a field service management solution. He leveraged his past experiences to connect with others and develop valuable professional relationships, allowing him to navigate challenges and start anew.

Q: How did your views on government and financial systems evolve during prison?

The speaker's time in prison deepened his skepticism towards government policies and financial systems. He expresses the belief that financial opportunities like cryptocurrencies challenge the status quo, as they undermine traditional banking structures and the government's control over money.

Q: What were the key factors in the success of developing Contractor Plus?

The speaker credits hard work, determination, and leveraging his unique experiences and insights gained from prison for the success of Contractor Plus. His commitment to creating a solution that adds value and helps others has been a driving force in his entrepreneurial journey.

Q: How has cryptocurrency influenced your financial strategies since your release?

The speaker discusses adopting a strategy focused on cryptocurrencies, drawing parallels with the stock market. He emphasizes the importance of patience and strategic investment, as well as diversifying holdings in promising altcoins and waiting for the right opportunities to maximize returns.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The interview reveals the speaker's background in drug trafficking, focusing on synthetic drugs referred to as "bath salts," and details his arrest and subsequent prison time.

• In prison, he learns valuable life lessons, engages in personal growth, and successfully uses his time to build a business that allows him to reintegrate into society after release.

• The discussion also touches on broader themes, such as the impact of government policies, the nature of crime, and the financial opportunities available through cryptocurrencies and decentralized organizations.