Episode 32: Working With Conviction - A Conversation with Harley Blakeman, Founder & CEO of Honest Jobs

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Harley Blakeman's journey from a turbulent childhood in a small Florida town to founding Honest Jobs, the leading job board for individuals with criminal records, is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of support. Facing early hardships like his parents' divorce, his mother's addiction, and his father's death, Harley became homeless and was later incarcerated. This challenging time became a turning point as he earned his GED and developed a love for reading. Post-incarceration, Harley graduated with honors from The Ohio State University and overcame numerous employment rejections due to his criminal record, eventually gaining employment at a manufacturing company. This experience inspired him to create Honest Jobs in 2018, a platform that offers not just job opportunities but also hope and the possibility for others to redefine their futures. Harley's commitment to aiding others in similar situations underscores his journey of turning personal adversity into a source of inspiration and support for over 70 million Americans affected by the criminal justice system.

Takeaways

1. Even in adverse conditions, education can be a pivotal stepping stone toward personal and professional transformation.

2. Use personal experiences to inspire the creation of solutions that address systemic issues, thus turning personal trials into catalysts for widespread change.

3. Engage with and cultivate supportive networks, as these can provide the necessary encouragement and resources to navigate and overcome personal hardships.

4. Opportunities exist to develop initiatives or businesses that specifically aim to address and rectify the challenges faced by marginalized groups, thereby contributing to social equity.

5. Advocate for transformative reforms that open doors for those with past convictions, fostering an environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to society.

👉 You can find out more about Harley and Honest Jobs on his website or via the below social links:

Personal:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harley-blakeman/

Business:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/honestjobs/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/honestjobsHQ

X/twitter: https://twitter.com/HonestJobsHQ

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@honestjobs8262?si=qhStPsofllrEQq9d

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#SecondChances 💫 #ResilienceRising 🌱 #EmpowermentThroughEducation 📚 #CommunitySupport 🤝 #InclusiveOpportunities ✊ #HopeAndHealing ❤️

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