Podcast Summary: For Good Episode: Sentenced to Life for 40 Tons of Weed: Corvain Cooper’s Fight for Freedom
Release Date: July 1, 2025
Host: Joseph "JoJo" Simmons
Guest: Corvain Cooper

Introduction

In this gripping episode of For Good, host Joseph "JoJo" Simmons welcomes Corvain Cooper, widely known as Mr. 40 Tons, to discuss his harrowing journey from being sentenced to life in prison for a massive marijuana conspiracy to his triumphant release and ongoing advocacy work. The conversation delves deep into themes of mental health, personal growth, community service, and the transformative power of resilience.

Corvain Cooper’s Story

Corvain Cooper begins by recounting his arrest and sentencing. In October 2013, he, along with Evelyn Lachapelle and Natalia Wade, faced trial for the "40 Tons Conspiracy" in Charlotte, North Carolina. The result was a life sentence for possessing 40 tons of marijuana—a charge that magnified his struggles and resilience.

Corvain Cooper [02:37]: "I was obsessed with the newspaper clipping. I never accepted that I was going to die in prison and have a life without the possibility of parole."

He emphasizes his determination to transform his dire circumstances, believing that the very forces that led to his downfall could be harnessed for his redemption. Starting with just $1, Corvain and his partner Evelyn began flipping small amounts of marijuana, rapidly scaling their operations. This hustle eventually led to the staggering 40-ton charge.

Corvain Cooper [04:14]: "If you had a good person on the other side of the world, someone to get the money back, it can just flow like that."

However, his story takes a dramatic turn when, in the final moments of Donald Trump's presidency, Corvain was granted clemency—a decision he describes as miraculously timed.

Corvain Cooper [06:38]: "He walked out the door and said, oh, before 12 o' clock, let me make sure I signed Corvain Cooper, because at 11:30, I wasn't even on the list."

Building the 40 Tons Brand

Post-release, Corvain transformed his past into a mission-driven brand. The 40 Tons brand aims to advocate against unjust incarcerations for cannabis-related offenses and support those currently imprisoned.

Corvain Cooper [05:19]: "Nobody should be in prison for a plant. Our main goal is to get people out who are currently incarcerated."

The brand not only focuses on advocacy but also on creating employment opportunities and providing resources for individuals impacted by the war on drugs. Corvain highlights the importance of expungement and the challenges faced by those with prior convictions.

Community Work and Cana Christmas Toy Drive

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Corvain's community initiatives, particularly the Cana Christmas Toy Drive. This initiative provides Christmas gifts and essential supplies to incarcerated individuals and their families, ensuring that even those behind bars experience joy during the holidays.

Corvain Cooper [09:42]: "We had to figure out a way because when a person goes to prison, their kids still want Christmas. We wanted to return the favor for what was given to me while I was incarcerated."

Corvain collaborates with L'Oreal, the CEO at 40 Tons, to organize and execute the toy drive, which has successfully raised substantial funds and provided meaningful support to numerous families. The drive aims to expand further, tripling its impact in subsequent years.

Career Conferences and Advocacy

Beyond the toy drive, Corvain spearheads career conferences aimed at empowering Black and Brown individuals affected by the war on drugs. These conferences offer scholarships, resume-building workshops, headshot sessions, and direct job placements in the cannabis industry.

Corvain Cooper [13:09]: "The goal is for socially impacted individuals to find their seat at the table and learn about the myriad opportunities in the cannabis industry beyond just selling weed."

He details the expansion of these initiatives across various states, including Los Angeles, Oakland, Trenton, and Chicago, with plans to reach Minnesota and Oklahoma next. The conferences also feature expungement clinics to help participants clear their criminal records.

Mindset and Mental Health During Incarceration

Corvain shares profound insights into maintaining mental strength while serving a life sentence. He underscores the importance of faith, staying busy, and focusing on personal goals despite the oppressive environment of a federal maximum-security prison.

Corvain Cooper [25:21]: "You have to have faith because once you lose the faith, it's gonna start showing."

His strategies included trading stocks, running a bookmaking operation, and fostering a supportive community within the prison. These activities not only kept him mentally engaged but also prepared him for life post-incarceration.

Parenting While Incarcerated and After Release

Discussing the challenges of parenting from behind bars, Corvain reveals the emotional toll of being separated from his young daughters and the complexities of maintaining those relationships.

Corvain Cooper [18:13]: "It's extremely difficult because you can't really see them that much. Missing daddy-daughter days is one of the hardest parts."

Upon release, Corvain faced the daunting task of reintegrating into his daughters' lives, who were now older and developing their own identities. He emphasizes the delicate balance of being a supportive and present father while re-establishing authority and connection.

Current Projects and Future Aspirations

Corvain is actively expanding the 40 Tons brand, with a vision to make it as ubiquitous as everyday products available in stores like 7-Eleven. He aims to secure licensing across all 26 states where cannabis is legal.

Corvain Cooper [34:48]: "We're trying to move the brand so that you can get 40 Tons in the marijuana stores the same way you can get Doritos at 7-Eleven."

Additionally, Corvain is involved in writing a book that chronicles his life story, aiming to inspire and educate others about the injustices of the war on drugs and the potential for personal transformation.

Maintaining Mental Health Post-Incarceration

Corvain continues to prioritize his mental well-being through faith, prayer, and goal-setting. He shares personal practices that help him stay grounded and focused on his mission.

Corvain Cooper [35:10]: "I prayed and cried, sweeping my hallway and asking God for blessings and guidance."

His reliance on faith and strategic planning ensures that he remains resilient in the face of ongoing challenges, both personal and professional.

Conclusion

In this poignant episode, Corvain Cooper's narrative serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and redemption. From the depths of a life sentence to building impactful community initiatives, Corvain exemplifies the profound impact of turning personal adversity into collective good. JoJo Simmons skillfully navigates this conversation, highlighting the importance of mental health, purposeful living, and the relentless pursuit of justice and legacy.

Notable Quotes

• Corvain Cooper [02:37]: "I was obsessed with the newspaper clipping. I never accepted that I was going to die in prison and have a life without the possibility of parole."
• Corvain Cooper [05:19]: "Nobody should be in prison for a plant."
• Corvain Cooper [09:42]: "We had to figure out a way because when a person goes to prison, their kids still want Christmas."
• Corvain Cooper [13:09]: "The goal is for socially impacted individuals to find their seat at the table."
• Corvain Cooper [25:21]: "You have to have faith because once you lose the faith, it's gonna start showing."
• Corvain Cooper [34:48]: "We're trying to move the brand so that you can get 40 Tons in the marijuana stores the same way you can get Doritos at 7-Eleven."
• Corvain Cooper [35:10]: "I prayed and cried, sweeping my hallway and asking God for blessings and guidance."

Listen to this episode on [Podcast Platform] to gain deeper insights into Corvain Cooper’s journey and the transformative power of healing oneself to change the world.