Michael’s story begins at the age of 15, when he was abandoned by his mother. Alone and with no place to go, he found himself navigating the harsh realities of the streets in Baltimore City and Charlotte, North Carolina. Homelessness introduced him to a world where hunger, fear, and uncertainty were constant. Every day was a fight for survival, and without a support system, he learned to rely solely on his instincts and determination. Despite the hardships, Michael held onto the belief that there had to be something better waiting for him.
During his years on the streets, he observed the systemic failures that left vulnerable individuals like himself without resources or guidance. He saw firsthand how youth impacted by the justice system were often left with no path forward, forced to navigate a world that seemed set against them. This experience planted a seed in Michael’s mind—one that would later grow into his commitment to creating a solution for underserved communities.
However, before he could fully realize his vision, Michael’s life took another dramatic turn when he was arrested and sentenced to federal prison. For many, incarceration is the end of the road, but for Michael, it became a defining chapter in his journey. He refused to let prison break his spirit. Instead, he used his time behind bars to educate himself, diving into business, technology, and social justice reform.
It was in prison that the idea for PCONN was born. Through conversations with fellow inmates, he came to understand a recurring theme: the devastating impact of incarceration on families. Many inmates were unable to see their loved ones simply because their families lacked access to reliable and affordable transportation. The distance between prison facilities and major cities often left families disconnected and struggling to maintain relationships.
Michael knew this problem firsthand. He had experienced isolation, and he understood what it meant to feel forgotten. The thought of mothers, fathers, and children unable to see each other because of transportation barriers struck a chord with him. He realized that if he could solve this issue, he could make a real difference in the lives of countless families.
Upon his release, Michael was determined to bring PCONN to life. He knew that transportation should never be a barrier to staying connected. He envisioned a ridesharing platform specifically designed for justice-impacted families, providing affordable, reliable transportation to visit loved ones in prison, attend court hearings, or access crucial reintegration services. Unlike mainstream ridesharing apps, PCONN was built with a community-driven mission, ensuring that drivers understood the unique challenges faced by the families they served.
Building PCONN was not easy. Michael had no formal background in tech development, and he had to learn how to navigate the business world post-incarceration. But just as he had done throughout his life, he pushed forward, teaching himself, networking, and turning his vision into reality. His lived experience gave him an advantage—he wasn’t just creating an app; he was solving a problem he had personally witnessed and endured.
PCONN is more than just a ridesharing service; it is a lifeline for families affected by incarceration. The app provides a solution to one of the most overlooked issues in the justice system—the ability for loved ones to stay connected despite systemic barriers. It offers a community-oriented approach, where families can rely on trusted drivers who understand their circumstances.
For Michael, PCONN is personal. It represents hope, second chances, and the belief that no one should have to endure separation due to financial or logistical challenges. His goal is not just to provide transportation, but to foster a sense of belonging, reduce stigma, and create a network of support for justice-impacted families.
“I know what it’s like to feel forgotten and abandoned,” says Michael. “But I also know that hope can come from the most unlikely places. With PCONN, I want to provide families with the tools they need to stay connected and rebuild their lives. This is not just about transportation; it’s about creating a sense of community for those who need it most.”
As Michael continues to expand PCONN, he remains deeply committed to his mission. He understands that rebuilding lives after incarceration is about more than just serving time—it’s about breaking barriers, providing opportunities, and giving families the support they need to heal.
Through PCONN, Michael is proving that second chances are possible, and that innovation can be driven by lived experience. His journey—from homelessness to prison to entrepreneurship—is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. By transforming his hardships into a solution that benefits others, Michael Marshall is not just rewriting his own story—he’s helping thousands of others do the same.
For more information, visit:
themichaelmarshall.com
iampconn.com