On the latest episode of The Bounce Back Podcast, hosted by B Luke, Benny Bronco shared his harrowing journey from a chaotic upbringing in Lynn, Massachusetts, to his current efforts to rebuild his life as a father of three. Raised by his white mother and aunt, Bronco faced racial tensions within his extended family and grew up without a father figure. His path to trouble began early—arrested at just 12 for fighting and drawn into street life by 16, he balanced this chaos with an unexpected achievement: graduating high school while playing sports.
By the time he was 18, Bronco had become a father and sacrificed a chance to play college football in California to stay close to his family. However, this decision also led to deeper involvement in the streets, with firearm charges and jail stints marking his early adult years.
Bronco recounted a defining betrayal that led to a federal case and a 46-month sentence. A former friend’s girlfriend, whom he had been involved with, cooperated with authorities, ultimately securing reduced sentencing for her boyfriend and receiving financial compensation. Reflecting on this experience, Bronco described how trust was shattered and how survival in the justice system demanded resilience.
His attempt to use an entrapment defense faltered due to federal legal complexities, leaving him with no choice but to accept a plea deal. In prison, he navigated the harsh realities of Middleton Jail and federal facilities like Wyatt and Canaan, forging connections with inmates from New England and observing the survival dynamics of prison life.
Now four years out of prison—the longest period of freedom he’s experienced since his teens—Bronco is determined to rewrite his story. Despite past struggles, his two oldest daughters are thriving in college, and he’s committed to being present for his children and son’s athletic pursuits.
Bronco emphasized the importance of discipline, rebuilding credit, and finding purpose through family and self-improvement. “It’s about consistency,” he shared, offering advice to others transitioning out of incarceration. His message underscores the possibility of transformation, even in the face of adversity.
