

802: Michael Santos | Conquering a 45-Year Prison Term
Feb 28, 2023
Michael Santos, a former federal inmate and author, shares his remarkable journey from a 45-year prison sentence to becoming a successful author and mentor. He discusses the emotional toll of incarceration on his family and the innovative three-prong strategy he implemented to maximize his time behind bars. Michael reveals how he made his first million while incarcerated and highlights the systemic barriers to inmate rehabilitation. His story emphasizes resilience, the importance of relationships, and the potential for personal transformation even in the most challenging circumstances.
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Early Drug Involvement
- Michael Santos, at 20, entered the drug trade, inspired by Scarface, focusing on cocaine distribution.
- He hired others to handle the drugs, believing this distanced him from legal consequences.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
- Michael Santos' initial mindset was entrepreneurial, not criminal, viewing drug dealing as a business.
- This self-deception, coupled with legal missteps, led to his severe sentence despite not personally handling drugs.
Family Disappointment and Epiphany
- Santos's conviction and 45-year sentence at 23 devastated his family, a consequence of his choices and lies.
- This realization prompted an epiphany, leading him towards amends and reconciliation.