Life Rewritten (aired 12-07-25) From Captivity to Freedom: Jose Pereira’s Journey of Resilience, Faith, and Purpose

In this compelling episode of Life Rewritten, host Vanessa Lagoa sits down with Jose Pereira, former CEO of Citgo Petroleum and one of the “Citgo Six,” to share an extraordinary story of survival, faith, and personal transformation. Jose recounts his 1,775 days as an international hostage, enduring solitary confinement, uncertainty, and unimaginable hardship.

Through resilience, spiritual awakening, and an unbreakable mindset, Jose transformed adversity into purpose. He opens up about the emotional toll of captivity, the power of hope and family, and how faith guided him through the darkest moments of his life. Now an author, international speaker, and founder of a nonprofit dedicated to helping others overcome adversity, Jose shares how trauma can become a catalyst for growth and leadership.