From Prison to the Boardroom

Some stories begin in darkness. For Michael M., that darkness came early, when at 15 years old, his mother left him to face the world alone. What followed were nights spent on cold benches, meals scavenged from trash cans, and eventually, a 10.5-year federal prison sentence.

But Michael’s story isn’t about where he fell, it’s about how he rose.

Within the confines of prison walls, where many find only despair, Michael discovered purpose. He began envisioning a solution to a problem he understood intimately: the devastating impact of separation on families touched by the justice system. This vision became PCONN, a community-based ridesharing platform designed to help families stay connected despite the barriers of incarceration.

“I just focused on my dream,” Michael says when asked how he overcame the challenging transition after release. It’s this straightforward determination that characterizes his approach to transformation. Today, backed by a developer and an investor who believe in his mission, Michael is turning PCONN from a prison-born idea into a reality that could help countless families maintain the connections that are crucial for successful reintegration.

His advice to others facing release is equally direct: “Plan your release and work your plan.” When asked what he’d tell his younger self, Michael’s response reveals the wisdom gained from his journey: “Stop trying to take shortcuts.”

Michael’s story exemplifies the power of second chances—not just in taking them, but in creating them for others. From a teenager searching for his next meal to an entrepreneur developing solutions for families impacted by incarceration, his transformation showcases how past struggles can fuel future purpose.

Michael stands as living proof that our darkest chapters can lead to our most meaningful work. His journey from homelessness to hope-builder reminds us that second chances aren’t just about personal redemption—they’re about using our experiences to light the way for others.