For the first time since his release, Binance CEO Changpeng "CZ" Zhao shared his experiences in a U.S. prison, where building connections became essential to survive the often harsh environment. Isolation, he realized, could be far more challenging than he had imagined. In a surprising twist, some prison guards recognized him and even sought his cryptocurrency advice—though he had to explain he couldn’t access his usual resources.
Despite the unfamiliar and sometimes isolating setting, CZ managed to make friends, and some of them still keep in touch with him. Many of his fellow inmates were sentenced to lengthy terms for minor offenses but displayed unexpected warmth and kindness, reminding him that good people can be found even in difficult places.
He also revealed he had received practical advice from prison consultants before his sentence, including keeping his account balance minimal to avoid drawing attention. When he arrived, he noticed that others had more money in their accounts, which subtly positioned him as less well-off financially—a strategic choice that helped him blend in.
One of the most impactful people he met was Michael, a man who had spent over two decades in prison for a minor marijuana offense—a crime that is no longer an offense today. Michael's resilience was inspiring; despite his circumstances, he earned a college degree and pursued self-improvement, reflecting a profound dedication to growth.
CZ described the limitations in technology access, with each inmate allotted only brief, 15-minute computer sessions with minimal functionality, making even simple tasks challenging. He couldn’t help but admire those who, like Michael, pursued education in an era with even fewer resources, a testament to their determination.
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