Cortez Chandler, known as "Tez," was born in Zanesville, OH, to a Navy Chief Petty Officer father and stay-at-home mom. After the family's move to Long Beach, CA, Tez attended California public schools and graduated from Millikan High School. He pursued college football at Chaffey College before starting a successful auto detailing service with his California business license in 1989. However, in 1991, he was sentenced to life in a California correctional facility. During his 24½ years of incarceration, he met Andre Wiley of the Timelist Group, which sparked discussions about post-prison life.

Upon his release on August 19, 2015, Tez transitioned through the Amistad Foundation's programs and learned essential life skills. His experiences led him to become a PRNN for CDCR, aiming to assist others in reintegrating successfully. He married his best friend, La Para, on the day of his release, and they've now celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary. Today, Tez serves as Vice President of the Timelist Group's reentry program, running transitional homes and aiding ex-offenders in their reintegration journey.

In a twist of fate, he returned to Avenal State Prison as a motivational speaker for YW Consulting, advocating for second chances, reentry support, self and mental wellness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship for ex-offenders. Tez's transformation from a life sentence to a dedicated advocate exemplifies the power of redemption and helping others find their path to success after prison.