Let's Make a Deal | Episode 7

For years, Kurt Calabrese lived under the violent rule of his father, feared Chicago hitman Frank “The Breeze” Calabrese Sr. But when his brother turned informant, their family—and the Chicago Outfit—began to fall apart. The betrayal led to a historic trial, exposing decades of unsolved murders and taking down some of the most powerful mob figures in modern history. But behind the headlines was an even darker story—one of family loyalty, fear, and survival. Now, for the first time, Kurt reveals what it was really like growing up in the mob, the impossible choices he faced, and what it took to escape. The award winning franchise "Underbelly", returns for its long-awaited 3rd season. The gripping new season, Underbelly: Killing Kurt is out now! Available now wherever you get your podcasts. Listen on... Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special bonus episode of "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story", Wendell Brown sits down with Matt Liston for an interview to reflect on his time since his release from Chinese prison. He talks about how he felt hearing his story retold in the podcast, the overwhelming support from his team and family, and the lessons learned from his time in prison. Wendell also shares updates on his personal growth, his son's achievements, and the profound gratitude he feels for being home just before the onset of COVID-19. Throughout, Wendell's faith and resilience shine as he continues to rebuild his life and contribute to his community. For more exclusive bonus episodes of "Game Plan", check out our ENTROPY UNLIMITED channel on Apple Podcasts, where you can find even more bonus content along with ad-free episodes across all of our series! Click the link below to subscribe for a 7-day free trial... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/entropy-media/id6503914400 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After spending three years in a Chinese prison, Wendell finally returns home. As he reunites with his family and friends, the raw moments of joy and bittersweet reflections unfold, from the tense wait at LAX to the triumphant welcome in Detroit. It’s a powerful story of resilience, community support, and an unbreakable spirit, showcasing the faith, love, and determination that helped Wendell rebuild his life against all odds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In August of 2019, a new possibility emerges: Wendell might be able to buy his freedom with a payment to the victim. With Sophia negotiating in China, Wendell’s family and friends scramble to raise the necessary funds. From GoFundMe efforts to help from Ball State alumni like Jason Whitlock, hope rises—but so do the financial demands. Will this deal finally bring Wendell home, or are there more obstacles ahead? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wendell Brown's family and friends anxiously await the verdict in his Chinese court case. While Sheree attends the hearing in China, Antoinette and a house full of loved ones in Detroit prepare for what they hope will be Wendell’s release after two years of imprisonment. As the family processes some heartbreaking news about his sentencing, feelings of frustration and disbelief take over, raising questions about justice, privilege, and the unequal treatment Wendell has faced. Despite the crushing outcome, his family remains determined to continue their fight, holding onto hope for his eventual release. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wendell recounts the dehumanizing conditions in detention, where basic necessities like haircuts were stripped of dignity, and survival became a daily struggle. As he prepares for his first trial, Wendell's hope dwindles when his own lawyer seems to be working against him, urging him to plead guilty despite his innocence. Wendell's frustration and helplessness grow as he realizes the legal representation his family fought so hard to secure is far from trustworthy. But just as Wendell begins to lose hope, a new lawyer enters the scene, reigniting his belief that he could prove his innocence. Back in the United States, Wendell's supporters ramp up efforts to raise awareness, facing unexpected challenges in garnering media attention. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A recent letter from Wendell exposes the emotional toll of enduring nearly three years without a verdict. New information is discovered about the night that led to his arrest, including key surveillance footage that casts doubt on the charges against him. Wendell’s story highlights the deep flaws in the justice system and the determined efforts to secure his freedom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On a freezing Detroit evening in 2002, Wendell Brown led his high school football team to victory, showcasing the relentless drive that would define his journey. Two decades later, that same determination is tested as Wendell, now a football coach in China, finds himself imprisoned on disputed charges. This episode explores Wendell's rise in Detroit’s East Side, the unwavering support of his family, and the complexities of seeking justice in a foreign land. We hear exclusive insights from Wendell's lawyer as well as never-before-seen surveillance footage, as the fight to bring Wendell home intensifies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wendell recounts the terrifying moments leading up to his arrest in Chongqing, China. What began as a scuffle at a bar quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation as an angry mob pursued Wendell through the streets. Seeking refuge, he turned to the police for help, only to be handcuffed and left defenseless against the crowd's wrath. Wendell's nightmare only deepens as he's thrown into a brutal Chinese prison system, facing unimaginable conditions and isolation, with no contact with his family or access to legal help. Back home in the U.S., Wendell’s loved ones struggle to comprehend the gravity of his situation as they fight to bring him home. "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story" is an Entropy Media production. Catch new episodes every Wednesday, wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the dead of night, Wendell Brown—a former American football coach from Detroit—finds himself surrounded by police officers in a foreign land, unsure of what's happening or where he's being taken. He recounts his terrifying first encounter with the Chinese legal system after a night out in Chongqing goes horribly wrong. As he’s thrown into a cell, unable to contact anyone or speak the language, Wendell’s nightmare begins. Host Matt Liston introduces us to Wendell's story, setting the stage for a heart-wrenching battle for justice in a world where the odds are stacked against him. This is the start of a journey that will take us from the streets of China to the halls of power in Washington, D.C., as Wendell’s family fights to bring him home. "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story" is an Entropy Media production. Catch new episodes every Wednesday, wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices