Written by: Justin Norcutt
Reading Earning Freedom by Michael Santos wasn’t just educational—it was personal. From the very first page, I felt like I was hearing from someone who had walked a path not too different from my own. Santos didn’t just survive a 45-year prison sentence—he served 26 years and used every single day to build something greater. He transformed from a federal inmate into a scholar, entrepreneur, author, and mentor. That journey resonated deeply with me, because like Santos, I’ve made it my mission to turn my past into a platform for real growth and positive change.
What inspired me most was his refusal to wait for a second chance—he created one. Santos committed to living with purpose and structure through education, discipline, and contribution. That mindset struck a chord. Over the last three years, I’ve worked relentlessly to build a solid foundation for my future. I’ve completed over 107 LinkedIn Learning courses, earned my MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) certification, and started a course in Business Organization and Management at Pima Community College with a final grade of 96% . I’ve also achieved 10 heavy equipment certifications, qualifying me for skilled labor across a wide range of industries.
Inspired by Santos’ discipline, I’ve also earned my Class A CDL with all endorsements, including doubles/triples, tanker, passenger, and hazardous materials. Due to a prior drug offense, I’ve been informed I must wait 18 months to formally receive the hazmat endorsement, but I proudly scored at the top of my class 98% in hazmat training—a reflection of my commitment to mastering every challenge in front of me.
Santos’ concept of identifying “avatars”—those we want to serve, inspire, or impress—shifted my perspective completely. It forced me to think beyond personal success and consider the legacy I want to leave behind. I started asking myself, “What would someone I respect expect from me?” and “What example do I want to set for others?” His story helped me start living intentionally, every single day.
Equally powerful was his emphasis on building structure and routine, even in confinement. Santos developed a system that included reading, writing, exercise, and strategic planning. I’ve embraced that same structure in my daily life: setting goals, journaling, scheduling personal development, and taking on challenges headfirst. That focus has fueled my transformation.
Perhaps the most profound lesson I took from Santos is the power of ownership. He didn’t blame anyone for his circumstances—he took responsibility and used it as a catalyst for change. That message hit me hard. I stopped making excuses and started creating opportunities. I chose to view my past not as a burden but as a source of strength. That shift in mindset has been life-changing.
Today, I’m laying the groundwork to build my own business and eventually create employment opportunities for others who just need someone to believe in them. Like Santos, my long-term mission is to give back—to uplift those who are ready to grow but need a door opened. I know firsthand how life-changing that opportunity can be.
Earning Freedom didn’t just inspire me—it reshaped my identity. Michael Santos’ story made me realize that I am not defined by where I’ve been, but by what I choose to do next. His words lit a fire in me to build something meaningful, to keep learning, and to reach back and help others rise. If freedom is earned through discipline, action, and purpose—then I’m earning mine, one step at a time.
