Nodes and Networks

While going through decades in prison, we learn to expect obstruction from the system. It's our responsibility to continue growing through obstruction, to always be learning. I found opportunities to learn from reading.

Books helped me understand how leaders in the world beyond prison walls think. Now that I'm free, instead of reading books, I listen to books on Audible. for the past few weeks, while running I've been listening to The Black Swan by Nassim Nicholas Taleb. The book taught me many lessons, which I'll write about in the book report after I finish it. Today I want to write about a lesson he offered on networks, influence, and success.

Taleb explains that networks—from social structures to technological systems—rely on a small number of highly influential “nodes” or hubs. These nodes have a disproportionate impact, shaping the dynamics of the entire system. This concept holds the keys to understanding personal growth, influence, and resilience.

Through this blog, I'll connect Taleb’s lessons on nodes and networks to the strategies that empowered me while I served 26 years. Think critically about the networks in your life, the role you play within them, and how you can position yourself to be an influential node of positive change.

What Are Nodes and Networks in Life?

At its core, a network is a system of connections. Think of relationships in your life, or professional communities you’re part of. Nodes are the individuals or entities within the network. Some nodes are more influential than others, acting as hubs that shape the flow of ideas, resources, or power.

Taleb emphasizes:

• Influential nodes dominate networks. A few people, companies, or ideas in a network drive the majority of change.
• Networks are fragile. Because networks rely so heavily on key hubs, anything that disrupts them can cause massive, unexpected shifts.
• Nodes magnify impact. Becoming an influential node allows you to reach more people and create disproportionate results.

These principles mirror what I teach in our courses. Whether in prison or in life, understanding networks helps people build strategic relationships, leverage their influence, and prepare for life’s uncertainties.

Now, let's look at how these lessons apply to personal growth and success.

1. Identify Your Influential Nodes

Throughout my life, role models played a pivotal role in shaping my decisions. They were my “hubs”—sources of wisdom, values, and inspiration. Historical figures like Viktor Frankl taught me resilience. Socrates inspired me to question assumptions, while Mandela’s story reminded me of the power of purpose. You can read about those leaders by visiting the "Influencers" section on the website.

Who are the powerful nodes in your network? These could be:

• Mentors who offer guidance.
• Educators or professionals in your field.
• Visionary thinkers who inspire you from afar.

Ask yourself: 

• Who in my current network has the knowledge, values, or influence I need to grow? 
• How can I intentionally learn from and connect with these individuals? 

2. Become a Strategic Node in Your Network

Building a powerful network isn’t just about who you know; it’s also about who you are. One of the core lessons I’ve taught through Prison Professors is that everyone has the potential to be a positive force. Whether in your family, workplace, or community, becoming an influential node means:

• Creating value: Discover how you can help others solve problems.
• Building trust: Integrity and accountability strengthen your reputation.
• Sharing knowledge: Mentorship empowers those around you.

When you position yourself as a trusted resource, opportunities begin to flow toward you. Your network becomes stronger, and you become indispensable.

Ask yourself: 

• How do people currently perceive my contributions within my network? 
• What skills or knowledge can I share to bring value to others? 

3. Prepare for Life’s “Black Swans”

Taleb describes “Black Swans” as rare, unpredictable events with major impacts. The time I served in prison may not have been unpredictable, because I knowingly broke the law during my early 20s. Yet at that time, I didn't appreciate the magnitude of my crimes. After I got sentenced, I used the time as an opportunity to prepare, build, and grow. The unpredictability of networks makes resilience essential.

Whether you’re facing a personal crisis, professional setback, or even societal disruptions, you can prepare for your own Black Swans by:

• Building adaptable systems. Create routines and processes that keep you focused despite adversity.
• Expanding your network. Diversify your connections so one failure doesn’t paralyze your entire system.
• Developing skills. Invest in continuous improvement to remain valuable in any scenario.

Ask yourself: 

• What are the potential “Black Swans” I should prepare for in my life? 
• How can I build resilience to thrive in uncertainty? 

4. Leverage Scalable, Replicable Systems

One of Taleb’s key ideas is that information spreads more efficiently through certain nodes. Similarly, the systems I’ve developed—including the workflows, templates, and lesson plans shared with Prison Professors Talent participants—are designed to be scalable and repeatable. These tools make success accessible to anyone willing to learn and take action.

By leveraging systems like these, individuals in crisis become creators of their own opportunities. They not only achieve personal success but also transform into nodes that inspire others.

Ask yourself: 

• Do I currently rely on systems to scale my efforts, or am I still trying to do everything alone? 
• How can I replicate my successes to create a broader impact? 

5. Influence Your Network Through Leadership

Taleb stresses the impact of key nodes on transforming entire networks. Through my personal narrative, the Straight-A Guide, and extensive outreach, I became an influential node in the criminal justice reform network. Sharing my lessons helped break down barriers for others and amplified messages of hope, education, and change.

Your story, knowledge, and actions can do the same. Every effort to contribute to your network’s betterment reinforces your role as a leader, making you a catalyst for change.

Ask yourself: 

• What is one idea, story, or skill I could use to influence my network today? 
• How can I inspire those around me to grow and adapt? 

Final Thoughts: Becoming the Node that Changes Lives

If we zoom out, the lesson here is simple but powerful. Networks define life. By understanding their structure, identifying key nodes, and positioning yourself as a positive influence, you can transform not only your own future but also the futures of those around you.

No matter where you’re starting from—even if you’re in a position as adverse as prison or facing significant setbacks in life—you can apply these principles to rebuild, reconnect, and rise.

Take time to reflect on your network and your role in it. Explore tools like Prison Professors Talent to build a profile, connect with mentors, and refine your strategies. Our resources are designed to help you become a positive, powerful node in your own network. 

Your potential is limitless; the only question is, how will you use it?

‍