#1095 - T.J. English & Joey Diaz

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Joey Diaz and TJ English Discuss Crime, Loyalty, and Cuban Heritage

  • Joey Diaz introduces TJ English, highlighting the impact of English's book 'The Westies' on him.
  • English shares insights about growing up in Union City, a Cuban enclave with a mafia-like environment.
  • The chapter delves into themes of loyalty and violence in neighborhoods like Hell's Kitchen and Union City.
• 00:04:25

  The Legend of Jose Miguel Battle and the Bolita Lottery in Cuban Organized Crime

  • TJ English explains the rise of Jose Miguel Battle, a key figure in Cuban American organized crime.
  • Battle's connections with mafia figures and the establishment of an illegal lottery known as Bolita are discussed.
  • The chapter highlights how cultural beliefs and community ties played a role in the success of the Bolita racket among Cubans.
• 00:12:29

  The Rise and Fall of José Miguel Battle: From Bay of Pigs Hero to Ruthless Crime Boss

  • José Miguel Battle, a charismatic leader, gained fame for his heroic actions during the Bay of Pigs invasion.
  • The illegal bolita lottery, initially not violent in Cuba, became a major crime syndicate in the U.S., leading to territorial disputes and violence among Cubans and Italians.
  • Battle’s quest for revenge following personal grievances led him down a dark path, resulting in numerous violent acts and internal killings unrelated to business.
• 00:21:08

  CIA, Cuban Exiles, and the Dirty War: Political Undertones in the Fight Against Castro

  • The Bay of Pigs invasion created ongoing resentment towards President Kennedy among Cuban exiles, with some allying with the CIA for covert operations.
  • CIA ties to Cuban anti-Castro organizations fueled terrorism, as exemplified by the assassination plots and bombings targeting both Cuban officials and sympathizers.
  • Castro's resilience to over 600 assassination attempts highlights the complex political and social landscape of U.S.-Cuba relations during the latter half of the 20th century.
• 00:25:35

  Fidel Castro’s Unconventional Rise and the Cuban Revolution: A Debate with Union City Origins

  • Discussion on Fidel Castro's impact on Cuba and his controversial political stance during the revolution.
  • Description of Batista's dictatorship and the Cuban people's fight for change leading to the Cuban Revolution.
  • Personal anecdotes about Castro's visit to Union City, including his arrest and public persona.
• 00:29:40

  Che Guevara: From Argentine Roots to Misunderstood Icon of Liberation

  • Examination of Che Guevara's questionable legacy and the misinterpretation of his actions by modern supporters.
  • Insights into the rift between Cubans and Argentinians stemming from Guevara's political influence.
  • Reflections on cultural identity and language differences that shape Cuban-American experiences.
• 00:37:49

  Osama Batlle's Legacy of Intimidation and Corruption in Organized Crime

  • Osama Batlle received threats from unknown individuals linked to the drug trade regarding his daughter, highlighting the intimidation tactics used in organized crime.
  • The speaker discusses their upbringing in a politically corrupt environment, where police and mafia connections shaped everyday life.
  • The speaker shares personal anecdotes about family involvement in the numbers game and their grandmother's imprisonment for not revealing information about criminal associates.
• 00:45:47

  The Evolution of Organized Crime: From Italian Mafia to Modern Immigrant Gangs

  • The speaker discusses how organized crime has shifted from traditional gangs to newer immigrant groups, emphasizing the continuous cycle of corruption in politics and law enforcement.
  • Comparison is made between past crime involved with alcohol prohibition and current illicit drug trade, indicating a persistent criminal enterprise in the U.S.
  • Osama Batlle capitalized on the void left by the declining Italian mafia, creating a successful criminal organization that thrived for decades without significant law enforcement interference.
• 00:51:17

  Jose Battle's Untouchable Status Among FBI and Treasury During the 60s

  • Jose Battle was protected by U.S. government entities due to his anti-Castro stance and veteran status from the Bay of Pigs invasion.
  • The FBI was advised not to pursue tax violations against him, showcasing the extent of his untouchable status.
  • The chapter discusses the gambling culture among the Cuban community, detailing how they managed their operations quietly and efficiently.
• 00:56:43

  The Gambling Empire of Jose Battle and Lottery Scam Insights

  • Jose Battle distanced his gambling operations from sports betting to maintain a stable alliance with the Mafia.
  • The chapter highlights the use of the Puerto Rican lottery for laundering profits, reflecting the deep integration of gambling in the community.
  • Insights are shared about a modern lottery scammer, comparing their lack of awareness against organized crime's strict enforcement of rules.
• 01:02:34

  Joe Rogan's Childhood Memories of an Illegal Betting Empire with Black Mic's Influence

  • Joe Rogan recounts his experiences in a New York underground betting scene run by his mother and associates.
  • Black Mic, a Vietnam veteran and skilled cook, provided Joe with money and camaraderie during his childhood.
  • Rogan describes the operational details of illegal betting, including the need for mobility to avoid law enforcement.
• 01:10:23

  The Cuban-Italian Turf War: Jose Miguel Battle’s Role in a Dark Underworld

  • Jose Miguel Battle moves his operations from New York to Miami, sparking tension between Cuban and Italian factions.
  • The violation of the 'two-block rule' leads to an intense and bloody turf war, resulting in numerous casualties.
  • A botched sit-down meeting between the factions escalates tensions, leading to violent reprisals and horrific acts of arson.
• 01:13:47

  The Hidden History of 1970s Organized Crime: From Hudson County to the Cuban Underworld

  • Discussion of the 41 car bombings in Hudson County and their significance in organized crime during the 1970s.
  • Insight into the bombing war in Cleveland related to Irish gangsters and its portrayal in the film 'Kill the Irishman'.
  • Revelation of the connection between organized crime, the anti-Castro movement, and the U.S. government's complicity over four decades.
• 01:56:12

  Carmine 'The Torch' Balzano: An Inside Look at Corruption and Organized Crime in North Bergen

  • Personal anecdotes from the speaker about growing up around organized crime figures, including Carmine Balzano, a police officer involved in corruption.
  • Details of political corruption intertwined with organized crime, including land deals and control of waterfront property.
  • Discussion about the far-reaching impact of organized crime on personal lives and the challenges of revealing these hidden stories.
• 01:13:47

  Jose Miguel Battle Jr. and the Rise of Ernestico Torres: A Ruthless Mentorship

  • Jose Miguel Battle Jr. mentors 19-year-old Ernesto Torres, igniting a violent legacy.
  • Torres earns Battle's affection, but proves to be a liability, resorting to crime and kidnapping.
  • Battle takes personal responsibility, culminating in a deadly confrontation to eliminate Torres.
• 01:56:12

  The Quest for Vengeance: Jose Miguel Battle Jr. vs. Paulie After a Brutal Murder

  • Battle seeks retribution on Paulie after he murders Battle’s younger brother.
  • Numerous assassination attempts on Paulie lead to a near-mythical reputation of invincibility.
  • Battle ultimately executes a successful assassination on Paulie, showcasing his ruthlessness and determination.
• 01:13:47

  Yoramero's Santeria Journey: From Innocence to Rituals of Power

  • Narrator reflects on their initiation into Santeria alongside their godmother and mother.
  • Explains the significance of Santeria in their life, focusing on traditions and practices.
  • Describes a backstory involving rituals that intertwine religion with the underworld, including mentions of notable figures like Tati and Joe Rogan.
• 01:56:12

  The Dark Interplay of Santeria and Crime in Union City: Ernestiko's Fatal Encounter

  • Details the corruption and pressure faced by Cuban businesses from both legitimate and corrupt police.
  • Highlights the story of Ernestiko, leading up to his murder and the implications of his mother's Santeria practices.
  • Explains the meaning of bembe and its significance in protecting Ernestiko amidst the violent backdrop of his life.
• 01:08:16

  Joe Rogan Reflects on His Santeria Experiences with Eligua and Cultural Ceremonies

  • Joe describes the significance of Eligua, a trickster spirit in Santeria, and its importance in his life.
  • He recounts a vivid childhood memory of undergoing a Santeria ceremony in the Bronx that involved harsh rituals.
  • Joe emphasizes the lasting impact of his cultural beliefs despite drifting away from the religion.
• 01:16:14

  Joe Rogan Reveals Dark Underbelly of New Jersey's Organized Crime and Corruption

  • Joe shares a personal story involving a powerful figure, Nicky Gyrato, whose murder he witnessed tied to police corruption.
  • He highlights the deceptive narratives shared by media compared to the reality of crime and law enforcement in his neighborhood.
  • Joe discusses the interconnectedness of organized crime, local politics, and law enforcement in Hudson County.
• 01:13:47

  Joe Rogan Discusses Organized Crime and Corruption with Brazilian Culture Insights

  • Rogan reflects on the persistent nature of organized crime and corruption, referencing a mayor involved in charges even decades later.
  • He shares personal experiences related to his marriage to a Brazilian and the similarities between Brazilian 'Macumba' and Cuban Santeria.
  • Cuban culture is described as intensely sensuous, with strong flirtatious energy permeating its music and dance.
• 01:56:12

  Joe Rogan Explores the Culture of Seduction in Cuban Dance and 'Superman' Folklore

  • Rogan engages in a playful discussion about the seductive nature of Cuban dance, emphasizing its flirtatious undertones.
  • He talks about his Latin jazz series in New York and how it connects with his fascination for Cuban culture.
  • The legend of a notorious Cuban figure known as 'Superman' is shared, discussing his peculiar fame and the sensational stories surrounding his performances.
• 01:13:47

  JFK and George Smathers: The Untold Havana Secrets With Santo Trafficante

  • John F. Kennedy and Florida Senator George Smathers frequented Havana in the 1950s during a time of political and social hedonism.
  • They allegedly engaged in wild parties and trysts, often mingling with notorious figures like Santo Trafficante.
  • The clandestine activities in Havana were hidden from American media, creating an 'out of sight, out of mind' atmosphere.
• 01:56:12

  The Abacoa Society: Cuba's Enigmatic Brotherhood and Its Transformation

  • The Abacoa society, known for being a traditional brotherhood of men, is characterized by its strict codes and practices.
  • Membership changes have led to a more progressive stance on sexuality, allowing for greater acceptance of gay members.
  • The narrator shares personal anecdotes about the Abacoa's secretive nature and historical practices during his youth in Cuba.
• 01:43:58

  Uncovering Taty's Dark Secrets: A Son's Painful Journey

  • The narrator reveals his mother's warnings about Taty, a professional assassin for Omega 7 who killed her.
  • Emotional revelations arise as the narrator discovers connected names and past experiences within a newly published book.
  • Highlights the influence of Taty in the narrator's childhood, including instances of drug involvement and formative life lessons.
• 01:49:46

  Journey Through Memory Lane: The Impact of TJ English's Book

  • A powerful discussion occurs about the emotional reactions elicited by the book written by TJ English, particularly regarding the character battles.
  • The narrator shares anecdotes about growing up, exploring familiar addresses and people that evoke nostalgia.
  • Connections to local culture and characters, including Ernie's bar and names from the past, illustrate the intertwining of personal history with broader societal issues.