From postage stamps to diamond-dusted $20s: Former counterfeiter Russ Swain takes us inside the addictive world of artistic forgery and its moral reckoning.
What We Discuss with Russ Swain:
- Russ Swain's counterfeiting career began with painting a postage stamp for a job application. This minor forgery later evolved into currency counterfeiting when financial troubles hit, demonstrating how small ethical compromises can cascade into major criminal activity.
- Russ became physiologically addicted to the fear and risk of passing counterfeit bills. The constant state of alertness produced adrenaline rushes that became compelling enough to override moral concerns.
- Russ' operation showcased remarkable ingenuity: diamond dust for texture authenticity, printed textile fibers, and UV-inhibiting suntan lotion in the ink. This demonstrated how artistic talents can be repurposed for illicit endeavors.
- Despite financial gains, Russ paid heavily with his conscience, describing it as a "ghost" that constantly questioned his new identity. The ultimate price included divorce, church excommunication, and having to explain his crimes to his children.
- A full-circle moment with Russ' former high school principal shows how our talents can be redirected toward positive ends when we
- . We all have skills that can serve either harm or healing — the application remains our choice.
- And much more...
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