103: Coss Marte | Staying Out of Prison with Muscle and Conviction

Prison Realities

Coss Marte's experience within the prison system highlights the harsh realities faced by inmates. He describes the fear and survival instincts that persist even after release, noting how society often sets up former inmates for failure 1. Coss explains that the system isn't broken but rather designed to profit from incarcerated individuals, citing examples like inmates working for the DMV for mere cents an hour 2. This exploitation underscores the need for systemic change, as he states, "I think the system was made to do what it's doing now" 2.

   

Societal Change

ConBody, founded by Coss Marte, aims to shift societal views on formerly incarcerated individuals by fostering a community that bridges gaps between them and the general public. He emphasizes the importance of changing perceptions, as many people wrongly associate incarceration with violent crimes 3. Through fitness, Coss found redemption and a way to give back, realizing the broader impact of his past actions on families and communities 4. He reflects, "Fitness became my avenue, my mission to give back to society" 4.