In this episode of Founders Future, with host Ammar Elm, Shannon Ross, founder and executive director of The Community, shares his powerful journey from incarceration to creating a nonprofit that supports individuals preparing for release and combats societal stigma. Shannon discusses how he transformed his time in prison into a period of deep self-reflection and planning, ultimately leading to the creation of programs like a widely-read prison newsletter, pre-apprenticeship training, and narrative-changing initiatives that empower formerly incarcerated individuals.

Shannon also dives into the challenges and strategies behind running a successful nonprofit, emphasizing the importance of emotional regulation, strong habits, and unwavering confidence in the face of adversity. He shares his vision for reshaping public perception through media influence and invites listeners to engage in meaningful conversations that challenge stereotypes and create opportunities for second chances.