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"I believe every story has the power to transform lives, and mine begins in one of the most unexpected places: a California prison. I spent nearly two decades behind bars, navigating a system that seemed designed to suppress hope and limit potential. But even in that darkness, I found light through writing.
I began crafting stories — first as a way to survive, then as a way to thrive. My writings were published, I mentored others, and I even helped a fellow student bring his creative visions to life. These small wins revealed something profound: the human spirit is resilient, and our ability to create is unstoppable, even in the face of overwhelming odds. When I walked out of prison in 2021, I knew my freedom came with a responsibility—to use my voice, my experiences, and my platform to amplify the stories of others still fighting to be heard."
"My journey isn’t just a personal one; it’s part of a larger story about redemption, second chances, and the power of connection. After my release, I was accepted into UCLA as an English major and began sharing my experiences. A single LinkedIn post about my journey reached over a million people, opening doors I hadn’t imagined.
I launched the Ben Free Podcast to explore what freedom truly means and to highlight voices in the restorative justice space. Along the way, I realized how vital it is to invest in the lives of those impacted by incarceration. This work became my mission, and the Ben Free Project was born — a nonprofit dedicated to empowering system-impacted individuals through education, creative expression, and mentorship. [Inspired by poem PEN AMERICA World's Voices Festival - To Be Heard - ]
Now, as a speaker, I share my story and the lessons I’ve learned through various platforms and events. I talk about the importance of resilience, the need for systemic change, and how creativity and education can transform lives. But most importantly, I remind people that it’s never too late to rewrite your story."
"I speak because I know what it feels like to be unseen, unheard, and underestimated. And I also know what’s possible when someone takes a chance on you. My life is living proof that even the most broken systems can’t crush the human spirit when we invest in second chances.
Why me? Because I’ve been there — I’ve seen the system from the inside, and I’ve fought to overcome it. Why now? Because every day, people remain trapped in cycles of punishment without rehabilitation, and we can’t wait any longer to address it.
When I step on stage, I’m not just sharing my story — I’m inviting others to join a movement. Whether I’m speaking to students, community leaders, or policymakers, my message is the same: we all have the power to create change.
Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about me — it’s about all of us. Together, we can build a world where every voice matters and every life has a chance to be free."
- Benjamin Frandsen
