Digital Social Hour: Damon West – From Prison to 8-Figure Entrepreneur | DSH #1468

Release Date: July 29, 2025

Overview

In Episode #1468 of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly engages in an in-depth conversation with Damon West, a man whose life story epitomizes redemption and resilience. Damon transitions from serving a life sentence in a maximum-security prison to becoming an 8-figure entrepreneur and a bestselling author. This episode delves into Damon's tumultuous past, his transformative prison experience, and the principles that propelled him to success. Through raw and authentic dialogue, Damon shares pivotal moments, key lessons, and motivational insights that can inspire listeners facing their own challenges.

1. Early Life and Descent into Crime

Damon West's journey begins in Texas, where he was a high-achieving high school football quarterback, securing a scholarship to the University of North Texas. However, his life took a drastic turn following a severe injury that led to substance abuse.

Damon West [02:15]: "I graduated college, worked in Washington and Congress, then landed a job on Wall Street in Dallas. But in 2004, meth entered my life like touching a live wire, and 18 months later, I was living on the streets."

His addiction spiraled, leading him to homelessness and eventually, criminal activities. Damon became the ringleader of a group involved in "uptown bur" burglaries across Dallas, earning the moniker "the uptown burglar."

Damon West [03:50]: "When I broke into people's houses, I didn't just steal property; I took away their sense of security, something they couldn't get back."

2. The Arrest and Life Sentence

On July 30, 2008, Damon's criminal activities culminated in a dramatic SWAT raid of his apartment. This event marked a turning point—not just his arrest but also the beginning of his sobriety.

Damon West [04:30]: "The day I was arrested was also the day I became sober. But not really in recovery yet. I was thrown into Dallas County Jail with a bond set at $1.4 million—a no-bond situation."

His trial transitioned from a simple burglary case to an organized crime charge under RICO, resulting in a life sentence of 65 years, colloquially referred to as "six dimes in a nickel" prison slang.

3. Transformation Inside Prison

Faced with life imprisonment, Damon encountered Muhammad, an older black Muslim inmate who became his mentor. Muhammad introduced Damon to the metaphor of the coffee bean, teaching him to remain positive and transformative amidst adversity.

Damon West [06:00]: "Muhammad told me, 'Be a coffee bean. The power to change the pot of boiling water lies within you.' That message empowered me to take control of my mindset."

Damon resisted joining gangs, adhering to his mother's promise to return as the man she raised him to be. Instead, he focused on personal growth, education, and servant leadership within the prison community.

Damon West [09:45]: "I opened a free tutoring service, taught inmates to read and write, and prepared them for the GED. Serving others helped me grow."

4. Building a Brand and Preparing for Redemption

Even behind bars, Damon was intent on building his personal brand. He understood that success requires time, effort, and authentic relationships. His commitment to self-improvement and helping others laid the foundation for his post-prison success.

Damon West [12:30]: "There's no such thing as overnight success. I spent years building relationships, providing value, and developing the 'Coffee Bean' persona."

Damon’s philosophy centered on controlling the controllables: what one thinks, says, feels, and does. This mindset helped him navigate the challenges of prison life and prepare for his future endeavors.

Damon West [13:55]: "In prison, I learned that while you can't control the world around you, you can control what's inside you. Guard that real estate."

5. Post-Prison Life and Rise to Success

Released on parole in 2015, Damon faced the daunting task of rebuilding his life while adhering to strict supervision. He dedicated himself to perfecting his presentation skills, practicing relentlessly in front of a mirror to prepare for speaking engagements.

A pivotal moment occurred at a Houston event where, despite initial rejections from top college football coaches, Damon persisted. His relentless effort eventually led to a speaking opportunity with Clemson University’s national championship team, garnering attention from other major programs like Alabama.

Damon West [27:40]: "After seven no’s, the breakthrough came when I finally shared my story with Clemson. That night changed everything."

His book, Six Times a Nickel, encapsulates his life story and the principles that guided his transformation. The book's success, amplified during the global pandemic, positioned Damon as a sought-after motivational speaker.

Damon West [31:30]: "Writing the book was about sharing the people who helped me, not just my story. Relationships are everything."

6. Legacy and Continued Impact

Damon honors his mentor Muhammad by establishing the James Lynn Baker II Be a Coffee Bean Scholarship, ensuring Muhammad's legacy continues to support youth in Dallas. He emphasizes living a life of service and integrity, aligning with his participation in a 12-step recovery program.

Damon West [35:20]: "Every morning, I pray to recognize what I need to do for others. Living amends—doing good deeds without expecting anything in return."

Damon's story is a testament to the power of resilience, positive mindset, and unwavering commitment to personal growth. His ability to turn his darkest moments into a beacon of hope for others exemplifies the essence of transformative success.

Notable Quotes

• Damon West [00:00]: "You either infect the room you walk into with your negative energy or you affect a room with positive energy. You’re the disease or the cure."

• Damon West [06:00]: "Be a coffee bean. The power to change the pot of boiling water lies within you."

• Damon West [12:30]: "There's no such thing as overnight success."

• Damon West [27:40]: "After seven no’s, the breakthrough came when I finally shared my story with Clemson."

• Damon West [35:20]: "Living amends—doing good deeds without expecting anything in return."

Conclusion

Damon West's story, as shared on Digital Social Hour, is a compelling narrative of downfall, redemption, and ultimate triumph. His ability to harness the lessons learned in the most challenging environments and convert them into a thriving business and inspirational platform underscores the transformative power of mindset and dedication. Listeners are left with a powerful reminder that no matter the odds, change is possible through perseverance, service, and a commitment to personal integrity.

For more insights and to follow Damon’s journey, visit damonwest.org and follow him on Instagram and X (@damonwest7). His book, Six Times a Nickel, is available for pre-order on Amazon, offering an immersive look into his remarkable life story.