On this episode of Nightmare Success, I sat down with Rusty Pangburn. His story is one of radical change, accountability, and persistence. He went from being at his lowest point—facing prison, weighing over 400 pounds, and full of regret—to building a new life with purpose. Rusty’s journey is about never letting where you are define where you’re going.
Before his fall, Rusty was a successful professional in the mortgage business. But like many stories on this podcast, success covered up deeper issues. Rusty made choices that eventually caught up with him. He ended up facing federal charges and received a 33-month prison sentence. That moment forced him to confront everything in his life that was broken.
What hit me hardest was how Rusty explained the day he stood in court. He looked in the mirror before sentencing and saw a man he didn’t recognize. He was 420 pounds, stressed, and full of shame. But instead of giving up, he asked himself one simple question: “Why not?” Why not change? Why not rebuild? Why not take responsibility?
In prison, Rusty made a decision to transform. He started walking. At first, it was painful. He could only do a few laps. But every day, he added more. He cut sugar, changed his diet, and committed to a routine. Over 18 months, he lost over 200 pounds. He didn’t do it for praise or attention. He did it because he wanted to live.
He also worked on his mind. He read books about discipline and mindset. He reflected on the choices that led him to prison. He took accountability, not excuses. That mindset helped him rebuild when he got out.
After prison, Rusty faced the challenge of starting over. His past was a weight he carried, but he didn’t let it stop him. He found work in sales and started to rebuild his life. He used his story as fuel. Now he talks openly about his experience to help others facing similar roads.
What stands out about Rusty is his honesty. He doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He owns his mistakes, but he doesn’t let them define him. He’s proof that you can make a comeback if you’re willing to do the work. He didn’t wait for someone to save him. He put one foot in front of the other, every single day.
If you’re struggling with your past, your health, or your direction in life, Rusty’s story is worth your time. He shows what’s possible when you stop making excuses. He asked himself “Why not?” and then he answered it with action.
Listen to this episode to hear how Rusty lost over 200 pounds, rebuilt his life after prison, and found a second chance in a career that gives him purpose. His story will challenge you to stop waiting and start doing.