John Koopman shares his journey from a successful journalist to a modern bootlegger after getting laid off. With no work prospects in sight, Koopman ventured into managing San Francisco strip clubs before turning to cross-state marijuana smuggling. His experiences gave him a fresh perspective on life, humanity, and the reasons behind people’s involvement in illegal activities.

Key Points: 

1. John Koopman was a journalist for 25 years before being laid off, pushing him to find unconventional ways to earn a living. He began managing strip clubs in San Francisco and later became involved in drug smuggling.
2. The high-risk nature of the job and potential for good income drew Koopman to smuggling marijuana across state lines. He described the rush and excitement he felt as a welcomed change from the drudgery of regular work.
3. Koopman explained that many turn to illegal activity due to economic hardship and the desire to escape the monotony of the jobs available to them, aiming to feel more alive and engaged in their work.
4. He shed light on the lives of those involved in illegal activities, drawing examples from his friend Sarah Lauren’s experience in sex work, and another friend Joe who has sold drugs his entire life.
5. While the primary motivation for involvement in illegal activities may seem like money, Koopman argues that it’s also about individuals’ feelings toward themselves and their place in the world.

Source: https://lithub.com/how-i-became-a-modern-bootlegger/