Kiko: From Life Without Parole to Life with Purpose

by David Carrillo, Weldon Long (Introduction), T Casias (Introduction)

Overview

At just nineteen years old, David Carrillo was facing a life sentence without the possibility of parole for his role in a gang-related homicide. Thrown into some of Colorado's most violent prisons, he endured decades in solitary confinement, the destructive pull of prison politics, and the crushing reality of a system designed to break him. Yet, through education, self-reflection, and an unrelenting search for meaning, Carrillo forged a new path-emerging not as the person the system expected, but as an educator, consultant, and advocate for change.

This is not merely a prison memoir or recovery story-it is an unflinching account of what it means to confront your past, fight for your humanity, and transform pain into purpose. Carrillo's journey reveals the power of resilience, the necessity of second chances, and the possibility of hope even in the darkest of places.

For anyone who has faced seemingly insurmountable obstacles or wondered if true change is possible, KIKO offers more than inspiration-it offers a roadmap forged in the fire of lived experience.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798999925619
Publisher:	David R. Carrillo, Consulting, LLC
Publication date:	09/15/2025
Pages:	420
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.94(d)

About the Author

David R. Carrillo, MBA is a speaker, consultant, educator, and author who transformed his life after serving more than 30 years in prison on a life-without-parole sentence. Granted clemency in 2024, he is now the founder of David R. Carrillo Consulting, LLC, where he advises attorneys, educators, and organizations on prison culture, plea bargains, sentencing, and higher education in corrections. While incarcerated, he became the first person in the U.S. hired by a university to teach college courses from inside prison, earned multiple degrees, including an MBA, and facilitated transformative programs such as 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Today, Carrillo is an adjunct professor, national speaker, and advocate for second chances, resilience, and education as a pathway to change.

Weldon Long is a New York Times-bestselling author, entrepreneur, mindset and sales expert who overcame immense adversity to become a leading motivational speaker and business authority. After serving 13 years in prison and experiencing homelessness as a ninth-grade dropout and three-time convicted felon, Long radically transformed his life. By 2009, he had built a successful company recognized on Inc. Magazine’s list of fastest-growing privately held businesses.
His breakout book, The Power of Consistency, teaches the “Prosperity Mindset” and consistency-driven “Consistency Selling” approach that emphasizes high-service rather than high-pressure sales. Today, Long is one of the nation’s most sought-after keynote speakers, known for inspiring audiences with his message that one’s past does not determine one’s future.

T.R. Casias served several years in prison with David Carrillo. After his release, Casias pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Literature. Casias has found success in being a great husband and father.

Editorial Reviews

In this gripping memoir of transformation, David Carrillo delivers a raw, unflinching account of one man's journey against the gravitational pull of a system designed to consume him.
What sets this book apart is its unflinching honesty. We witness a warrior's spirit emerge through repeated failures and triumphs, creating a testament to human resilience that feels both rare and essential in today's world.

English Faculty at Pueblo Community College - Jamie Patti

Although I had a ringside seat in Bueny (Buena Vista Correctional Facility) with Kiko, the book is still riveting and a page-turner. He's one hell of a man, and I am honored to call him my brother.

New Addiction Tattoo - Malcom Montoya

With strength and grit, David Carrillo shows us that no matter how you are perceived, you can always rescript your narrative to fulfill your desired change. I had a front row seat to the perseverance he summoned to make his dreams a reality, watching him navigate trials, setbacks, and triumphs with unshakable resolve. Guided by faith in a better tomorrow and helping others, he never stopped moving forward.... This is a book about courage, renewal, and the unstoppable power of hope.

University of Colorado Prison Education Program - Sean Mueller

Whether you are incarcerated and looking for a story of hope, curious about those who have served long sentences, or just want a little inspiration, read this book.

Attorney at Law - Korey Wise Innocence Project/Legislation on the Inside - Jamie Ray

Kiko: From Life Without Parole to Life with Purpose is the epic book of transformation.
It provides hope, belief, and faith that change can happen for anyone. From inmates to everyday people, we can all change for the better. David Carrillo is living proof that "if anyone can do it, anyone can do it!" He proves that miracles happen. I give KIKO my highest recommendation. It's a must-read.

FranklinCovey - Jeff Carney