Topic Guide
What Is Loyalty?
Loyalty is a subject covered in depth across 2 podcast episodes in our database. Below you'll find key concepts, expert insights, and the top episodes to listen to — all distilled from hours of conversation by leading experts.
Key Concepts in Loyalty
The 'south philly code'
This refers to an unwritten set of values and principles, cultivated from childhood in South Philadelphia, that Merlino adheres to. Key tenets include unwavering loyalty, respect, minding one's own business, and a strict aversion to 'tattletailing' or cooperating with authorities, which he deems a profound betrayal.
The 'rats' phenomenon
Merlino uses the term 'rats' to refer to cooperating witnesses or informants, expressing intense disdain for individuals who testify against others to reduce their own sentences. He views this as the ultimate transgression, leading to disownment of family members and severe public condemnation of alleged figures like Sammy Gravano and Phil Leonetti.
The 'cheese steak war'
This is a competitive rivalry in the Philadelphia food scene, specifically between Merlino's cheese steak business and iconic establishments like Pat's Steaks. Merlino asserts his business has 'perfected' the cheese steak, claiming to have significantly impacted his competitors' business through superior quality and local popularity.
Techphobia
Conan O'Brien describes himself as having "techphobia" [05:14], identifying as an "18th or 19th-century man" [03:41] who struggles with modern technology. This concept highlights a deep-seated aversion or fear of technological devices and processes, making him heavily reliant on his assistants for basic digital tasks like using email or Netflix.
What Experts Say About Loyalty
- 1.Joey Merlino adamantly denies being part of "the mob," referring to such accusations as "fake news" and "movies" perpetuated by the media and government.
- 2.Merlino expresses profound contempt for cooperating witnesses, or "rats," extending to disowning family members and criticizing public figures like Ralph Natali, Phil Leonetti, and Sammy "The Bull" Gravano.
- 3.He asserts that he was acquitted of all alleged murder charges and multiple RICO cases, maintaining his innocence despite widespread allegations.
- 4.Merlino credits his enduring support and respect in South Philly to a lifetime of helping the community, including acts like paying utility bills and distributing turkeys, which he claims were done without seeking recognition.
- 5.He discusses his aggressive competition in the Philadelphia cheese steak market, boldly stating that his business has "buried" long-standing rivals by perfecting the classic sandwich.
- 6.Merlino warns that legalized gambling, particularly through apps, will lead to a societal epidemic "worse than crack" due to its easy accessibility and addictive nature for minors.