About Me

Hi, I’m Rustin Pangburn, and my story is one of resilience, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of a better life.

In 2010, I stepped out of federal prison after serving a 60-month sentence. I had no money, no connections, and no roadmap for what came next. All I had was the determination to never return to that life and a simple, powerful question that would guide my journey: Why Not?

Starting from scratch in a new town, I faced countless obstacles—finding a job with a felony record, securing housing, and rebuilding my identity in a society that often closes its doors to people like me. But each challenge was met with the same resolve: Why not keep pushing forward?

In those early days, I rode a city bus, then a bicycle to work, determined to save every penny until I could afford a car. I took on jobs that barely paid the bills but fueled my desire to prove that I could build a life worth living. Slowly but surely, I pieced together a new reality, one where my past didn't define me but transformed my commitment to a brighter future.

Today, I am a motivational speaker, and an advocate for Justice Reform and re-entry support. I share my story not to dwell on the hardships but to inspire others who are facing their own battles. My Why Not? mantra has become a beacon of hope in my life, and I hope, for many, a reminder that change is always possible, no matter how dark the past.

Through my work, I aim to shed light on the challenges of re-entry and to provide practical guidance and inspiration for those navigating this difficult path. Whether I’m speaking in front of people who are incarcerated or sharing insights with professionals in the public sector, my message remains the same: We all have the power to redefine our lives, and it starts with asking ourselves Why Not?

This is my journey—a journey of falling and rising, of losing and finding, and of turning setbacks into stepping stones. And this is just the beginning.