Dr. Jorge L. Valdes

Dr. Jorge L. Valdes is recognized for his significant transformation from a founding member of Colombia's Medellin drug cartel to an authority on personal development and resilience. In his twenties, Valdes played a central role in the cartel, overseeing all U.S. operations and generating substantial profits. His position brought him into contact with political leaders, military officials, celebrities, and individuals involved in organized crime. Valdes was charged with leading a major drug conspiracy in the United States and, following multiple arrests, served time in prison.

After his release, Valdes pursued higher education, earning a master's degree from Wheaton College and serving as an adjunct professor in the Bible department. He later completed a Ph.D. in New Testament Studies at Loyola University Chicago, where he received the Hispanic Theological Initiative Scholarship. Valdes authored "Coming Clean," published by Random House/Waterbrook Press, and went on to build a national and international business.

Valdes's story reached a global audience through his feature in the Netflix docu-series "Cocaine Cowboys: Kings of Miami." He has published several books in English and Spanish, including "Cerebro Narco," "Cuentas Claras," "Narco Mindset: The Life Principles that a Cocaine Drug Lord Learned on His Journey to Find Meaning in His Life," and "The Ultimate Narco Mind Set: That Wins in Life and Business." His work has been covered in various magazines and he has appeared on national and international radio and television programs.

Valdes developed the Narco Mindset™, a framework designed to help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve sustainable success. He also established the Narco Mindset Academy, a membership program focused on personal growth and mindset development. Valdes has addressed the U.S. House of Representatives, the Flag Officers at the U.S. Pentagon, and delivered keynote speeches alongside global leaders. His journey from the drug trade to academia and the global speaking circuit positions him as a knowledgeable voice on resilience, reinvention, and the impact of mindset in personal and professional development.