Transforming Lives Behind Bars: The Power of Entrepreneurial Training

In this episode of Opening Doors, we explore transformative approaches to rehabilitating individuals within the prison system through entrepreneurial programs. Joe Gagnon shares his journey from a career in tech and entrepreneurship to volunteering with Defy Ventures, an organization that offers incarcerated individuals entrepreneurial training. With a deep passion for uplifting others, he discusses the barriers faced by those re-entering society, the need for systemic reform, and the incredible potential unlocked through education and opportunity. Whether you’re curious about social justice, the power of second chances, or how entrepreneurship can change lives, this conversation is sure to inspire.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The societal and personal impact of providing entrepreneurial training to incarcerated individuals.

• How education and vocational skills can reduce recidivism rates and offer hope.

• The systemic challenges in the U.S. prison system, including private prison incentives and barriers to employment.

• Insights into developing critical thinking and leadership through innovative programs.

• The importance of community, opportunity, and giving back to create a more equitable society.

Key Resources & Links:

• Joe Gagnon’s Website: https://www.thehighperformancelife.net/ 

• Learn more about Defy Ventures, the program featured in this episode: https://defyventures.org 

• Explore the book Living the High-Performance Life: An Ordinary Guide to the Extraordinary: https://www.amazon.com/Living-High-Performance-Life-Extraordinary/dp/1979203067 

• Watch the inspiring documentary about the San Quentin Marathon for an inside look at resilience: https://www.sanquentinmarathon.com/

Books:

• What Happened To You: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing  – Oprah and Dr. Bruce Perry

• The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk

Support Groups-Resources:

• Grief Support Resources for Parents Who Have Lost Children to Gun Violence: https://judishouse.org/childhood-bereavement/gun-violence/ 

• The Compassionate Friends non-profit organization exists to provide friendship, understanding, and hope to those going through the natural grieving process: https://www.compassionatefriends.org/ 

• Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families: https://adultchildren.org/meeting-search/ 

• Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA): https://coda.org/

• Children of Incarcerated Parents: CAP4Kids -Philadelphia: https://cap4kids.org/philadelphia/parent-handouts/parenting-foster-care-adoption/incarceration-resources/

• Rainbows for All Children: https://rainbows.org/

Support for Children dealing with Grief from many traumas, including incarcerated parents:

• We Got Us Now: https://www.wegotusnow.org

• National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated – Rutgers Camden: https://nrccfi.camden.rutgers.edu/resources/directory/national-programs/

• Youth.Gov: Children of Incarcerated Parents: https://youth.gov/youth-topics/children-of-incarcerated-parents/tools-guides-resources

• Sesame Workshop: https://sesameworkshop.org/topics/incarceration/

 

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Opening Door Podcast Music by John Abella