How The Big Friendly Giant Can Help You Prepare For A Sentencing and Prison!
Release Date: 09/20/2024
Why Fededal Prison Was The Easiest Part Of The Sanction
White Collar Advice
For me, federal prison was the easiest part of the sanction—it had a clear start and end. I shared this perspective at USC Marshall School of Business, and it surprised some students. Before prison, you're stuck in uncertainty. After, the real challenges hit: losing your career, licenses, and facing restitution. Rebuilding your life is far harder than any time in a minimum-security camp. These are the long-lasting consequences of mistakes like cheating. Understanding the full impact is crucial. every Monday at 1PM Pacific / 4PM Eastern.
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Defendants: Is This Why You Don't Agree With Your Plea Agreement?
White Collar Advice
A defendant called me—frustrated—because he didn’t agree with his plea deal. Turns out, his lawyer barely knew the facts. Didn’t understand how the business ran before things went wrong. Meanwhile, the U.S. Attorney saw him as a career criminal. Here’s the takeaway: You might not love your plea deal, but if your lawyer doesn’t fully understand your story, how can he negotiate the best sentence? Write out your full history. Make sure your lawyer knows it inside and out. every Monday at 1PM Pacific / 4PM Eastern.
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Another Bad Choice I Made Before Going To Federal Prison
White Collar Advice
When I was a defendant, I made a mistake—I went silent for years, then called an old friend asking for a sentencing letter. He refused. He was disgusted that I only reached out when I needed something. I was embarrassed, but I learned a hard truth: relationships need nurturing. If you’re facing federal charges, don’t disappear. Stay in touch. Show people you’re worthy of their support. If you do that, they’ll be there when it matters. If you don’t, you’ll face sentencing alone. every Monday at 1PM Pacific / 4PM Eastern.
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Defendant: The Feds Are Always Watching
White Collar Advice
A defendant expected probation. Instead, he got 120 days in federal prison. He cooperated, repaid the money, and took responsibility. But he failed to disclose unpaid employment taxes for his nanny. That one oversight made the judge question his honesty. The government assumed if he hid this, what else was he hiding? In federal cases, small mistakes have big consequences. The past can’t be changed, but you can prepare better. Assume every decision is under scrutiny. Join our weekly webinar every Monday at 1PM Pacific / 4PM Eastern.
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Defendants: The Easy Way or The Right Way?
White Collar Advice
A defendant just sentenced to a year and a day in prison called me to share his mistake: he took the easy way. He outsourced everything to his lawyer, did no real preparation, and expected probation. The right way is harder—it means owning your case, preparing daily, and proving through your own words and actions why you won’t reoffend. The government has unlimited resources. You don’t. But you do control your effort. Don’t leave your future to chance. every Monday at 1PM Pacific / 4PM Eastern.
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Mistake Some Defendants Make After Getting Indicted
White Collar Advice
A lawyer told a prospective client it was "way too early" to prepare for sentencing. But was it too early for the government to arrest him? Too early for the DOJ to issue press releases? No. The FBI says by the time they knock on your door, 95% of their work is done. Judges want proof of what you’ve learned and how you’ll change—before sentencing. That record takes time to build. Waiting is a mistake. Start today. every Monday at 1PM Pacific / 4PM Eastern.
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This TIP Totally Changed My Life in Federal Prison—Use it in 2025!!
White Collar Advice
Most people in prison read books to kill time. I did too—until my business partner, Michael Santos, asked me, “What did you learn?” I had no answer. I had read 20 books but couldn’t recall a single takeaway. That changed everything. From then on, I took clear notes: Why am I reading this? How will it help me? What can I use today? Reading became active, not passive. Whether you’re in prison or not, make every book work for you. Take notes. Apply lessons. Build a future. —Mondays at 1PM Pacific / 4PM Eastern.
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My First Job After Federal Prison
White Collar Advice
A former physician just out of prison told me he couldn’t find work—but after some digging, I learned he’d turned down jobs he felt were beneath him. One opportunity involved cold walking, selling solar panels door to door. I get it—cold walking is tough. But sitting at home complaining is worse. When I got out, I took a job as a receptionist at Sotheby’s. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was a start. Reality check: No one owes you your old life back. Work is work. Get moving. —Monday at 1PM PT / 4PM ET.
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How David Moulder Avoided Federal Prison—Lessons from His Sentencing
White Collar Advice
If you’re facing a federal sentencing hearing, you need to hear about David Moulder—not because he got lucky, but because he took action when most defendants don’t. David was staring down a 48-60 month sentence in federal prison. The government labeled him as a kingpin in a conspiracy case. His lawyers told him what most lawyers say: “Let us handle it. Stay off the internet. There’s nothing you need to do.” But that advice didn’t sit right with him. "At the time, I felt overwhelmed and had no idea where to start," David said. "I began watching Justin's videos and Michael's...
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5 Things I Will NEVER Do Again Because I Went To FEDERAL PRISON
White Collar Advice
1. One Drink Can Cost Everything A DUI isn’t just a ticket—it can wreck your career, relationships, and freedom. I’ll never take that risk again. A rideshare is always cheaper than the consequences. 2. Felons and Firearms Don’t Mix Being near a gun after a felony conviction isn’t just illegal—it’s a fast track back to prison. I won’t make that mistake twice. 3. No More Jury Duty for Me I used to see jury duty as a hassle. Now, I’ve lost that right. It’s a reminder of what a felony conviction takes away. 4. I Won’t Judge Someone by Their Worst Day I met people in prison...
info_outlineRoald Dahl’s The BFG may seem like a simple children’s story at first glance, but it offers profound insights that can be incredibly useful for someone preparing for a government investigation. Through its characters and narrative, the book explores essential qualities like strategic thinking, humility, resilience, and the importance of alliances—traits that are crucial when navigating the complexities of an investigation.
Understanding Perspective and Building Empathy
In The BFG, Sophie initially fears the BFG due to his appearance and the reputation of giants. However, as she gets to know him, she realizes that he is fundamentally different from the others—kind, gentle, and misunderstood. This shift in perspective is key. When facing a government investigation, have you considered how you’re perceived by the stakeholders involved—whether it’s investigators, prosecutors, or judges? Understanding their perspective can help you anticipate their actions and create appropriate messaging (see our most recent webinar to learn more about appropriate messaging.)
Humility as a Strategic Tool
The BFG is a giant who, despite his size and strength, approaches life with humility. He doesn’t boast about his abilities, nor does he try to dominate others. Instead, he acknowledges his limitations and is open to learning from Sophie and seeking help when needed. How often do we think that admitting our mistakes or seeking help is a weakness? In reality, humility can be a powerful tool during a government investigation. By acknowledging past errors and showing a genuine willingness to make amends, you demonstrate that you’re not just trying to outmaneuver the system but are committed to doing what’s right.
The Power of Strategic Alliances
One of the most compelling aspects of The BFG is how Sophie and the BFG form a strategic alliance with the Queen of England to achieve their goal of stopping the other giants. They know they can’t do it alone. This reflects the importance of building the right alliances during a government investigation. Have you thought about who you need on your side? Whether it’s your lawyers, our team,, experts who can testify on your behalf, or character witnesses, forming alliances with people who can support your case is a good idea. These relationships can provide not only practical help but also moral support during a challenging time.
Creativity and Problem-Solving
Throughout the story, Sophie and the BFG use creativity to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. They devise clever plans and think outside the box to achieve their objectives. Do you feel trapped by the options in front of you? As I share in this podcast, this is when creativity in problem-solving becomes invaluable.
Courage and Resilience
Sophie and the BFG face big challenges, yet they persist with courage. They remain resilient, focused on their goal. When you’re dealing with a government investigation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure and uncertainty. How do you stay resilient when the outcome is unclear? Courage doesn’t mean you’re not afraid; it means you keep moving forward despite the fear. Maintaining focus on your long-term goals is key to navigating this difficut process successfully.
What Can You Learn from The BFG?
The BFG offers more than just a whimsical tale of giants and dreams. It provides a blueprint for how to approach a government investigation with the right mindset. By understanding different perspectives, embracing humility, forming strategic alliances, being creative in problem-solving, and showing courage and resilience, you can better prepare for sentencing, prison and life after prison.
Thanks for listening!
Justin Paperny