Blurb:

Ryan's journey from athletic dreams to entrepreneurial triumphs is a testament to resilience and adaptability. Through setbacks and career shifts, he transformed challenges into opportunities,embodying the power of perseverance. His story inspires readers to embrace change, prioritize goals, and pursue lifelong learning on their path to success. From the basketball courts to the boardrooms, Ryan's narrative illustrates that with determination and a growth mindset, anything is possible.

Objective:

The piece aims to illuminate the significance of resilience, adaptability, and personal growth through Ryan's journey.Readers discover the importance of prioritizing goals, navigating career shifts, and embracing lifelong learning. They gain insights into building professional networks, advocating for oneself, and persevering through setbacks. Overall, the narrative serves as a concise exploration of the enduring rewards of resilience and continual personal development.

Lesson Requirements:

• Watch the video that accompanies the lesson
• Write a definition of each word highlighted in bold and written in italics
• Use ten of the vocabulary words in a sentence
• Respond to a minimum of three open-ended questions by following instructions at the end of the lesson.

Lesson Outcome:

• Participants will increase their vocabulary by at least ten words.
• Participants will improve writing skills and their ability to contemplate how their responses to open-ended questions related to their prospects for success upon release.
• Participants will add to their journal, demonstrating a self-directed, self-improvement pathway to prepare for success upon release.

In the United States, more than 600,000individuals reenter society each year after serving time in prison. These returning citizens face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives under the weight of societal stigma and personal uncertainty. At PrisonProfessors, we empower these individuals by sharing stories of triumph from successful leaders who have overcome substantial challenges. By embracing these principles, our students significantly improve their chances of reclaiming their futures and thriving after release.

One such example is Ryan, a business owner whose journey through career setbacks and personal trials culminated in remarkable success. His story is not just about survival; it's a message of striving against the odds. For our students, Ryan’s experiences offer inspiration and actionable personal and professional growth strategies. Join us as we explore how adopting these principles can illuminate the path to a brighter, more empowered future.

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Background:

Born in New Jersey, Ryan spent his early years in the Poconos area of Pennsylvania. His life took a pivotal turn when his parents divorced when he was six years old. Though difficult,their separation event exposed young Ryan to two distinct models of success.His mother's career in the Pennsylvania prison system, rehabilitating drug and alcohol offenders, showed him the stability and impact of structured work. Conversely, his father, who owned a marina and raced boats in New Jersey, embodied the independence and financial potential of entrepreneurship. Ryan recalls, “He showed me that you can write your own ticket in life,” reflecting his belief in the boundless potential for prosperity offered through business ownership.

Despite their different paths, both parents instilled a crucial trait in Ryan: discipline. He applied this value diligently, achieving higher-than-average grades and participating in college preparatory courses. Outside the classroom, Ryan's commitment was even more evident in his passion for athletics. He excelled in basketball, football, and track, each teaching him lessons in teamwork and perseverance that later fueled his entrepreneurial achievements. "The fabric of sports was instrumental in my success as an entrepreneur," he notes, stressing the transformative power of early life lessons.

Ryan's athletic drive continued through high school, where he shone in football and pursued basketball fervently,inspired by the era's sports legends—Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and MagicJohnson. He dreamed of playing in the NBA. However, as he matured, he realized physical limitations precluded a professional career. This recognition forced him to redirect his goals, illustrating adaptability—a crucial attribute in his later life and business ventures.

Despite shelving his dreams of playing professionally, Ryan never lost his passion for basketball. Continuing his pursuit of the game, he played at the collegiate level after high school and later engaged in intramural and recreational leagues. His active participation in sports persisted until his early thirties,demonstrating his lifelong commitment to the game.

After high school, Ryan enrolled atPenn State University and later transferred to Florida State University,initially focusing on sports medicine and then health and human sciences.Alongside completing his degree, he balanced his studies with work. One significant role was selling subscriptions for the Tallahassee Democrat.“That was my first taste into the sales arena,” Ryan recalls, emphasizing the fundamental skills he learned in that role.

Though seemingly modest, his start at the Tallahassee Democrat led him to gain proficiency in areas that proved indispensable in his professional ascent.He mastered the art of communication, learning to control his voice's inflection and expand his vocabulary. This role taught him resilience as he faced the frequent rejections inherent to cold calling.It also highlighted the value of a strong work ethic. “If you're going to be good at it, you got to put in the work,” Ryan recalls, emphasizing that success required long hours and dedicated effort.

Upon graduating from college, Ryan landed a role as an operations manager at a daily work/daily pay employment agency in Jacksonville, Florida. This position gave him a deep dive into the employment sector and honed his management skills, setting the stage for future leadership roles.

Unfortunately, his career at the employment agency was abruptly cut short, leaving him without benefits and plunging him into a period of uncertainty. "It was a devastating blow because I thought I was doing very well," he laments. Remaining undeterred, this setback further solidified his resolve.

Determined to bounce back, Ryan relocated to Northern Virginia and joined the management training program atEnterprise Rent-A-Car, marking a significant turn in his career. Excelling in customer service, he demonstrated the skills held in esteem byEnterprise. Notably, the company valued applicants with athletic backgrounds, which often entailed keen discipline and a strong work ethic.

He remained at Enterprise for three years, progressing through the company’s management training program. His role involved learning various aspects of the business, such as sales and operations. A key part of his job was delivering exceptional customer service and managing day-to-day operations, including tasks like car rentals and customer pickups. These responsibilities required ensuring high-customer satisfaction standards. He credits his stint at the company as “one of the best customer service experiences” an individual could have upon entering the job market.

As we will explore, Ryan’s early professional experiences laid a robust foundation for his future ventures. His transition from a young athlete to a seasoned entrepreneur proves the importance of discipline, goal-oriented thinking, and diligence. From the playing field to the board room, Ryan has distinguished himself as a leader,offering all our students invaluable takeaways as he discusses his journey.

Takeaways:

Prison Professors aim to positively impact the lives of over 300,000 justice-impacted students across our nation by sharing actionable advice from the most successful members of society. Having served nearly three decades in prison, I recognize the immense value of learning from those who have navigated challenging paths to success.

Ryan's early life is a prime example, demonstrating essential success principles such as prioritizing important tasks, developing discipline, seeking diverse role models, and cultivating resilience and adaptability. These are the lessons I would have embraced as I sought to earn my freedom. I believe these same principles can guide our students toward a brighter future.

Put First Things First: We should reflect on Ryan's quote from renowned self-help author Steven Covey: “Put first things first.” Describing his approach to his studies, he always dedicated himself to schoolwork, even when he was more interested in athletics. Let’s follow his example by prioritizing our goals and focusing on what matters. By putting first things first, we ensure that our efforts are directed toward the most impactful areas of our personal and professional lives. This means making tough choices and setting clear, actionable goals for ourselves.

Develop Discipline: Let's commit to developing discipline, just as Ryan did by demonstrating an unwavering dedication to academics and sports. This principle guided him through numerous challenges and opportunities, showing us the transformative power of a results-oriented mindset and self-control in achieving long-term goals. We must hold each other accountable, ensuring that discipline becomes a cornerstone of our lives.

Follow Role Models: Let's embrace the lessons from various role models in our lives, just as Ryan did by observing the contrasting paths of his parents. We, too, can apply and emulate the experiences of leaders to shape our paths. We must actively seek out and learn from role models, applying their unique strengths and insights to our personal and professional growth. This approach will empower us to build a richer, more versatile foundation for future endeavors.

Cultivate Resilience: We must also persevere, drawing from Ryan’s ability to handle rejection and abrupt career changes. This steadfastness becomes crucial as we endure inevitable challenges as we rebuild our lives. Resilience equips us to deal with the inevitable hurdles and setbacks, empowering us to rise above each difficulty with renewed strength.Let’s support each other in fostering this quality, sharing our journeys and lessons, and learning from each challenge.

Embrace Adaptability: Like Ryan, we must also be flexible throughout our journey. After realizing that professional sports were not a viable means of success due to his height, Ryan shifted his focus. We can follow his example by redirecting our goals when faced with new realities or when our initial plans are no longer feasible. As we work towards rebuilding our lives, let's remain flexible in our ambitions, ready to pivot and seize new opportunities as they arise. Let's encourage each other to stay open to change and use it as a stepping stone for growth.

·  How can you leverage exposure to diverse models of success, like Ryan's parents, to shape your own rebuilding journey?

·  When facing unexpected limitations, how can you adapt your goals, following Ryan's example, to find new avenues for success?

·  How can you effectively prioritize your goals amid competing interests, drawing inspiration from Ryan's balancing of academics and athletics?

·  What strategies can you employ to cultivate resilience in the face of setbacks, mirroring Ryan's ability to bounce back after losing his job?

·  In what ways can you embrace adaptability, like Ryan did in transitioning from athlete to entrepreneur, to seize new opportunities during your rebuilding process?

Career:

While still at Enterprise, Ryan faced a pivotal moment due to a severe back injury sustained during a basketball game. This incident prompted him to reevaluate his career path. He moved to Tampa, Florida, living with his brother for about two months as he explored new professional opportunities.

Eager to rekindle his career, Ryan transitioned to a role in software sales. His communication skills were crucial, as he frequently made cold calls to sell software products. Reflecting on this stage of his life, Ryan noted, “The TallahasseeDemocrat prepped me for what I later did with the software company.” His time at the newspaper had sharpened his abilities in articulation and persuasion, proving the value of gaining transferable skills.

Ryan’s ambition soon led him elsewhere. Inspired by his brother's success in outside sales, which offered more flexibility and direct client interactions, Ryan sought a similar path. He applied to an advertising firm, determined to prove himself. But before he could enter into the sales industry of his choice, he had to sell himself.Despite his solid background, his lack of business-to-business(B2B) experience initially made the interviewer hesitant. Ryan addressed these concerns directly, asserting, “I'm never going to get it [experience] unless someone takes a chance on me.” His perseverance and confidence effectively assuaged the interviewer’s doubts and secured him the role.

His role in advertising sales focused on mediums like coupon books and the Yellow Pages, resources that became obsolete with the rise of digital marketing. Solutions like Groupon, which offered more cost-effective and measurable alternatives, began impacting the demand for traditional advertising.

Seeking a fresh start, Ryan found a niche in the telecommunications industry. He found the opportunity promising as it met market demands:“Everybody needed a phone and internet for their business, and I was the guy that was going to deliver it to them,” he expressed. He began working in a B2B role atVerizon, specializing in selling voice and data services directly to businesses.His communication skills again came to the fore. Ryan’s success depended heavily on his ability to connect with customers and his deep understanding of sales dynamics.

At Verizon, Ryan's position was entirely commission-based, demanding a high level of performance.He embraced this challenge with a rigorous work ethic, persistently “knocking on doors”—a metaphor for his proactive approach to engaging potential clients. He recalls attending early morning meetings and spending the rest of the day “out in the field for as long as [he] wanted to be” to make sales. His activities involved extensive cold-calling and face-to-face meetings with business owners, discussing how Verizon's solutions could meet their telecommunications needs.

Ryan's success was evident as he consistently closed deals and exceeded sales targets. He was soon offered opportunities to manage teams but continued focusing on individual sales, finding direct sales more lucrative and personally rewarding.

Entrepreneurship:

Leveraging his extensive experience and professional network, Ryan made another bold leap: starting his own consulting company. This new venture enabled him to offer businesses a broader range of telecommunications solutions beyond what Verizon could provide. His company aimed to assist businesses in optimizing their telecommunications infrastructure, tailored to their specific needs.

As he describes the intricacies of his business, we glean critical information on his company's:

·  Telecom System Analysis: Ryan and his team conduct thorough analyses of existing telecommunications systems in client businesses, identifying inefficiencies and areas for improvement.

·  Solution Customization: They specialize in customizing solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing business processes, enhancing operational efficiency without disrupting ongoing operations.

·  Cost Management: A significant aspect of their service is cost management—helping businesses minimize their spending while maximizing the utility of their telecom services.

·  Vendor Negotiations: Leveraging his industry contacts, Ryan assists clients in negotiating with service providers, ensuring they receive the best deals and service agreements.

 
Client Interaction:

Direct interaction with clients remains a cornerstone of Ryan's business model. He applies his sales acumen to close deals and build lasting client relationships. This approach has helped him foster trust and reliability.

Business Philosophy:

Ryan's consulting firm's philosophy centers on personalized service and client satisfaction. He believes that every business has unique needs and that a one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective in the telecom industry. His goal is to make telecom solutions more accessible and understandable for business owners, removing the complexity and making it easier for them to make informed decisions.

Impact and Growth:

The consulting firm quickly established itself as a trusted entity in the telecom sector. Under Ryan's leadership, it expanded its client base and broadened its service offerings, eventually dealing with larger accounts and managing more comprehensive telecom projects. The firm's success proves Ryan’s deep industry knowledge and ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive and evolving market.

Other activities:

Besides his telecom business, Ryan is also venturing into the field of tax credits for businesses and business owners, specifically focusing on those who are unaware of these potential benefits. This tax credit venture is a separate entity and has recently moved from the pre-launch phase to the official launch, indicating a new direction and expansion of his entrepreneurial activities.This new venture already employs about seven staff members, suggesting structured growth path separate from his telecom business.

Overall, Ryan’s discussion of his journey illustrates that with adaptability, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace change, it's possible to turn challenges into stepping stones for success. He chartered several ebbs and flows through his journey, yet thrived through his productive mindset and tireless work ethic. Let's draw inspiration from his path and strive to meet our challenges with the same resilience and forward-thinking approach.

Takeaway:

Several life lessons emerge as Ryan describes his ascent as a salesperson and entrepreneur. He illustrates the importance of adeptly navigating life’s twists and turns. By acquiring transferable skills, cultivating robust support networks, and dedicating ourselves to ongoing learning, we significantly enhance our chances of realizing our dreams.

Remember Success IsNonlinear: Ryan’s journey reminds us that success rarely follows a straight path. He navigated through various industries and adapted to significant changes in his career landscape. LikeRyan, let us embrace the twists and turns of our paths. Staying flexible and resilient allows us to manage changes effectively. Together, let’s remind ourselves to be adaptable, to learn from every situation, and to see each challenge as an opportunity for growth.

Embrace TransferableSkills: Like Ryan, who applied his early communication skills across different roles, let us identify and refine our transferable skills. Our expertise is a tool for opening new doors and thriving in diverse environments. Enhancing our abilities through practice and ongoing learning prepares us to meet various challenges head-on. Let's commit to continuous self-improvement and skill development.

Identify and SeizeOpportunities:Ryan’s keen eye for emerging market needs led him to succeed in telecommunications. Similarly, let us stay alert and proactive in identifying opportunities that align with our skills and market trends. Understanding and adapting to these needs allows us to carve out our niches and excel. Cultivating a proactive mindset enables us to seize otherwise overlooked opportunities.

Build a ProfessionalNetwork: Building and nurturing a professional network was key to Ryan’s transition into entrepreneurship. For us, creating strong networks is crucial in reclaiming our futures. Engage actively with employers, advocates, mentors, and peers. Each connection opens new doors and provides insights that can catalyze our progress. Let’s prioritize networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, building a robust support system that fosters our collective success.

Be a Perpetual Learner: Let's dedicate ourselves to ongoing learning and growth, inspired by Ryan's example of continuously acquiring knowledge and skills throughout his career. Embracing a lifelong learning mindset enables us to adapt to industry shifts and increase our market value.Whether through formal education, practical experience, or personal study, let's actively pursue new learning opportunities. As we do, we can ensure our skills stay current and our career paths progress, regardless of the obstacles we encounter. Let's transform every challenge into a stepping stone for development and success.

·  How did Ryan's career shifts demonstrate adaptability, and how can you apply this in your own career journey?

·  How can you leverage transferable skills, like communication, as Ryan did in different roles?

·  How can you advocate for yourself in job interviews, following Ryan's example?

·  What insights can you gain fromRyan's entrepreneurial ventures to enrich your career path and skill development?

·  How did Ryan's commitment to learning and networking contribute to his success, and how can you emulate this?

Conclusion:

Ryan's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and lifelong learning. From the basketball courts of his youth to the boardrooms of his own company, he has navigated a path marked by challenges and triumphs. His journey underscores the importance of resilience, a quality that allowed him to rebound from setbacks stronger and more determined. Each phase of his career—from cold calling at the TallahasseeDemocrat to spearheading his telecommunications consulting firm—has been a step in a continuous process of growth and reinvention.

Ryan's ability to adapt to changing circumstances and his willingness to embrace new opportunities have been central to his success. These traits, combined with his strong work ethic and discipline, teach us that success is not just about what one achieves. It is also about how one adapts to meet the ever-changing demands of life and career.

For our students, Ryan's story goes beyond offering a roadmap to success—it provides a source of motivation and a blueprint for personal development. His experiences illustrate that we can overcome our obstacles and achieve our goals with the right mindset, guidance, and determination. We must follow his example by taking advantage of every experience, every setback, and every success as a stepping stone to greater achievements.

In addition to sharingRyan’s inspiring journey, we have compiled a series of appendices to support further your learning and application of the principles outlined:

·  Appendix A: Glossary

·  Appendix B: SkillDevelopment

·  Appendix C: TenCoursework Modules

·  Appendix D: Understanding Commission-based Sales

·  Appendix E: RelatedReading and Resources

·  Appendix F: AdvocacyOrganizations

·  Appendix G: PotentialCareers

As we reflect on Ryan's narrative, let's carry forward the lessons of “putting first things first.” Let’s start by developing discipline, embracing adaptability, and pursuing continuous learning. In the spirit of Ryan's story, we must write our own stories of resilience and success, proving that where we come from does not determine where we can go.

Critical Thinking Questions:

Choose any of three questions below. Write a response for each of the three questions you choose.In your response, please write at least three paragraphs, with a minimum of three sentences each.

This exercise in personal development will help you develop better critical-thinking skills, and better writing skills. There are no right or wrong answers to these questions.We're striving to learn how to think differently, and how to communicate more efficiently. Try to use some of the vocabulary words from this lesson in your responses.

GeneralQuestions:

1. Long-termVision: How can you develop a long-term vision for your life that accommodates both your current circumstances and your future aspirations, similar to howRyan adjusted his career goals over time?

2. RoleModel Impact: In what ways can different types of role models (like Ryan’s parents with contrasting careers) provide unique insights or inspirations that are applicable to your own life rebuilding efforts?

3. Coping with Loss: Ryan experienced abrupt career changes that led to uncertainty. What coping mechanisms or strategies would you consider effective in dealing with sudden loss or change in your life?

4. Discipline in Practice: How can the practice of discipline in non-professional areas (like sports or hobbies) enhance your ability to handle professional challenges?

5. SkillTransferability: What skills do you possess that are transferable across different areas of your life, and how can you better recognize and utilize these skills?

6. Dealing with Rejection: Reflect on a time you faced rejection. What lessons did you learn, and how can those lessons be applied to future situations, inspired byRyan’s experience?

7. PrioritizingUnder Pressure: How can you improve your ability to prioritize tasks and goals under pressure, drawing from the "Put first things first" principle?

8. Adapting to Market Needs: Ryan shifted his career focus based on market demands. How can you stay informed about your industry or interests to effectively adapt to changing conditions?

9. ExploringNew Opportunities: Ryan ventured into new fields throughout his career. What steps can you take to explore and perhaps venture into unfamiliar professional territories or industries?

10.  Building and Sustaining Networks: What specific actions can you take to build and sustain professional relationships that could support your career development and personal growth, considering Ryan's approach to networking?

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Skill Development Questions:

1. MathSkills in Budgeting and Forecasting: Reflecting on Ryan’s ability to manage and grow his business, how can you apply math skills to create a budget or financial forecast for a personal or professional project? What specific mathematical concepts would you need to master to do this effectively?

2. EvaluatingInformation Critically: Considering Ryan's ability to pivot and adapt his career, how can you apply critical thinking to evaluate the reliability and relevance of information when making significant life decisions or changes?

3. QuantitativeAnalysis in Decision Making: Ryan likely used quantitative analysis in managing his business operations and sales strategies. How can you incorporate basic statistics or data analysis into your decision-making processes, whether in personal finance, job searching, or career development?

4. LogicalReasoning: Given Ryan's disciplined approach to both sports and academics, how can you develop logical reasoning skills that help you balance multiple priorities effectively?

5. ProblemSolving in Real-World Contexts: Can you think of a recent problem you encountered where you could apply mathematical principles to find a solution?How might you approach similar problems differently in the future based onRyan’s problem-solving strategies?

6. EffectiveCommunication for Persuasion: Ryan excelled in sales, a field that requires strong persuasive communication skills. What are some key elements of persuasive communication, and how can you practice these to improve both your personal and professional interactions?

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Appendix A: Glossary

·  Acumen (noun): The ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, typically in a particular domain.

·  Actionable (adjective):Capable of being acted on; giving grounds for action.

·  Adaptability (noun): The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions or environments.

·  Ascent (noun): A climb or walk to the summit of a mountain or hill.

·  Assuage (verb): To make an unpleasant feeling less intense; to satisfy.

·  Business-to-Business(B2B) (adjective): Involving transactions between businesses rather than between a business and a consumer.

·  Collegiate (adjective):Relating to or involving a college or its students.

·  Commission-Based Role(noun): A job where the salary is based on the amount of sales or revenue generated.

·  Conversely (adverb):Introducing a statement or idea that reverses one that has just been made or referred to.

·  Cost Management (noun):The process of planning and controlling the budget of a business or project.

·  Cold Calling (noun): The solicitation of potential customers who had no prior interaction with the salesperson conducting the call.

·  Cultivate (verb): To try to acquire or develop a quality, sentiment, or skill.

·  Customize (verb): To modify something to suit a particular individual or task.

·  Daunting (adjective):Seeming difficult to deal with in anticipation; intimidating.

·  Digital Marketing(noun): The marketing of products or services using digital technologies on theInternet, through mobile phone apps, display advertising, and other digitalmediums.

·  Diligently (adverb): In a way that shows care and conscientiousness in one's work or duties.

·  Dynamics (noun): The forces or properties that stimulate growth, development, or change within a system or process.

·  Emulate (verb): To match or surpass a person or achievement, typically by imitation.

·  Endure (verb): To suffer patiently; to tolerate.

·  Entrepreneurship (noun):The activity of setting up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit.

·  Esteem (noun): Respect and admiration, typically for a person.

·  Exceptional (adjective):Unusual; not typical.

·  Extensive (adjective):Large in amount or scale.

·  Feasible (adjective):Possible to do easily or conveniently.

·  Fervently (adverb): With passionate intensity.

·  Foster (verb): To encourage the development of something, especially something desirable.

·  Glean (verb): To extract information from various sources, often with difficulty.

·  Groupon (noun): A service that provides discount offers for products, services, or experiences through bulk buying.

·  Hone (verb): To refine or perfect over a period of time.

·  Inherent (adjective):Existing in something as a permanent, essential, or characteristic attribute.

·  Indispensable(adjective): Absolutely necessary; essential.

·  Inflection (noun): A change in the form of a word to express a grammatical function or attribute such as tense, mood, person, number, case, and gender.

·  Intricacy (noun): The quality of being complicated or detailed.

·  Instill (verb): To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude into a person’s mind.

·  Instrumental(adjective): Serving as a means of pursuing an aim or policy.

·  Intramural (adjective):Situated or done within the walls of a building, especially a school or college.

·  Keen (adjective): Having or showing eagerness or enthusiasm.

·  Launch (verb): To start or set in motion (an activity or enterprise).

·  Lucrative (adjective):Producing a great deal of profit.

·  Lament (verb): To mourn(a person's loss or death).

·  Market Demands (noun):The requirements or needs of a market or a segment of the market.

·  Medium (noun): A means by which something is communicated or expressed.

·  Metaphor (noun): A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable.

·  Niche (noun): A specialized segment of the market for a particular kind of product or service.

·  One-Size-Fits-All(adjective): Designed to fit a wide range of sizes, situations, or people.

·  Optimize (verb): To make the best or most effective use of a situation or resource.

·  Perseverance (noun):Persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.

·  Pivotal (adjective): Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else.

·  Preclude (verb): To prevent from happening; make impossible.

·  Pre-Launch (noun): A phase before the official launch of a product or service where final adjustments and preparations are made.

·  Resilience (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.

·  Rigorous (adjective):Extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate.

·  Robust (adjective):Strong and healthy; vigorous.

·  Stability (noun): The state of being stable; firmness in position.

·  Steadfastness (noun):The quality of being resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering.

·  Stigma (noun): A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.

·  Stint (noun): A person's fixed or allotted period of work.

·  Tax Credit (noun): An amount of money that can be offset against a tax liability.

·  Teamwork (noun): The combined action of a group, especially when effective and efficient.

·  Telecommunications(noun): The transmission of signals over a distance for the purpose of communication.

·  Transferable Skills(noun): Skills developed in one situation which can be transferred to another situation.

·  Utility (noun): The state of being useful, profitable, or beneficial.

·  Viable (adjective):Capable of working successfully; feasible.

·  Venture (noun): A risky or daring journey or undertaking.

·  Verizon (noun): AnAmerican multinational telecommunications conglomerate and a corporate component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average.

·  Vocal Inflection (noun):The modulation of pitch or tone in the voice.

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Appendix B: SkillDevelopment

This appendix presents practical exercises derived from Ryan’s diverse career experiences.Focused on enhancing math, critical thinking, and communication skills, these exercises offer real-world scenarios for those rebuilding their lives, particularly those without formal training. Engage with these tasks to develop essential skills through structured activities that mirror the real-life challenges Ryan faced, helping you navigate your path with confidence and competence.

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Based on Ryan's professional journey, here are some skill development exercises that mirror the experiences and challenges he faced in his career, particularly in sales, management, and entrepreneurship:

Math Exercise:

Budget Management Simulation:

·  Scenario: Ryan is launching a new product line within his telecom consulting company.

·  Task: Allocate a budget of $100,000 across various project needs, focusing on optimal allocation to ensure maximum return on investment.

·  Product Development, Marketing, Sales Training, Technology Upgrades, Contingency Fund.

·  Objective: Create a balanced budget that maximizes product impact without exceeding the $100,000 limit, practicing numerical budget planning and financial forecasting.

Critical Thinking Skills Exercises

Sales Strategy Development Exercise:

·  Scenario: Ryan needs to devise a sales strategy to penetrate a new market segment.

·  Task: Develop a comprehensive strategy addressing customer demographics, key selling points, and effective sales pitches.

·  Objective: Enhance strategic thinking by creating a targeted sales strategy based on market analysis and customer needs.

Entrepreneurial Decision-Making Exercise:

·  Scenario: Ryan considers expanding his business into a new geographic area.

·  Task: Evaluate potential benefits and risks, conduct market research, analyze competitors, and decide on expansion.

·  Objective: Strengthen decision-making skills by synthesizing complex information to make informed business decisions.

Communication Skills Exercises

Negotiation Skills Workshop:

·  Task: Simulate a negotiation session to secure a favorable deal with a new telecom service provider.

·  Prepare negotiation strategies and role-play the negotiation focusing on achieving win-win outcomes.

·  Objective: Develop persuasive communication and negotiation tactics by practicing how to articulate demands and reconcile differences.

Client Relationship Management Simulation:

·  Task: Manage a scenario where a client is dissatisfied, requiring adept handling to maintain a positive relationship.

·  Role-play addressing client concerns with empathetic and solution-oriented communication.

·  Objective: Improve client communication skills by practicing empathy, active listening, and effective problem-solving.

Appendix C: Ten Coursework Modules

This appendix focuses on Prison Professors’ coursework modules. We delve deeper into the key values and lessons exemplified by Ryan on his pathway to success. Each module focuses on a fundamental aspect of personal and professional development, drawing insights from Ryan's journey and providing actionable strategies for implementation.
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Appendix D: Understanding Commission-based Sales

Commission-based sales roles are positions where earnings are directly tied to the amount of sales or deals closed by the salesperson. This model can be highly rewarding for those with strong sales skills and the ability to consistently meet or exceed targets. Here’s a breakdown of how this typically works, using Ryan's experience in telecom sales as an example:

Earning Structure:

·  Base Salary Plus Commission: In some roles, such as those in telecom sales, employees might receive a base salary that provides financial stability and a commission that incentivizes performance. This model is particularly appealing because it balances risk and reward.

·  Pure Commission: In other cases, such as some high-level enterprise sales roles or real estate, the position might be 100% commission-based. This means that the salesperson’s entire earnings come from a percentage of the sales they generate. The absence of a base salary puts greater pressure on performance, but also opens up potential for higher earnings.

How Commissions Are Calculated:

·  Percentage of Sales: The most common method is to earn a certain percentage of the sales value. For instance, if a salesperson sells a service worth $100,000 and the commission rate is 10%, they earn $10,000 from that sale.

·  Tiered Commissions: Some companies use a tiered system where the commission percentage increases as the salesperson exceeds certain sales thresholds. This method aims to drive higher performance.

Thriving in Commission-Based Roles:

·  High Volume and High Value Sales: To succeed in these roles, like Ryan, a salesperson needs to focus on both the volume and the value of the sales. High-ticket items may offer higher commissions per sale, but might also be harder to close, requiring sophisticated sales strategies.

·  Building a Client Base: Success often depends on building and maintaining a strong client base. Satisfied customers can provide repeat business and referrals, which are less costly and often easier to convert than new leads.

·  Skill Development: Effective communication, negotiation skills, and in-depth product knowledge are crucial. Salespeople must continuously refine these skills to engage potential clients effectively, understand their needs, and close deals.

Example from Ryan's Career:

In Ryan's role at Verizon, he thrived by combining his deep understanding of telecom products with a proactive approach to client engagement. His earnings would have been directly tied to his ability to close deals and maintain relationships with business clients, providing telecom solutions that met their needs. His success was not just about making individual sales but also about fostering relationships that ensured customer satisfaction and repeat business, maximizing his commission earnings over time.

This model rewards high performance and can be highly lucrative, but it also requires a consistent focus on sales targets and client relationships.

Commission-based Sales Roles:

Here’s a breakdown of various commission-based sales roles, drawing insights from the business practices exemplified by Ryan's career:

Telecom Sales Representative:

·  Description: Sales representatives in the telecommunications sector, like Ryan at Verizon, sell voice and data services to businesses. This role involves understanding client needs and offering tailored telecom solutions.

·  Skills Required: Strong product knowledge, persistence, and excellent communication skills to articulate the benefits of complex services.

·  Potential Earnings: Often includes a base salary plus commission, with potential for significant earnings from commission based on sales volume and contract values.

Real Estate Agent:

·  Description: Agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. Earnings are typically a percentage of the property sale price or rental agreements.

·  Skills Required: Knowledge of the real estate market, negotiation skills, and the ability to provide valuable advice regarding property values and market trends.

·  Potential Earnings: Commission rates vary, but agents can earn substantial amounts, especially in high-value markets or through commercial real estate deals.

Insurance Sales Agent:

·  Description: These agents sell various types of insurance policies. Income is usually derived from commissions on sales of new policies and renewals.

·  Skills Required: Understanding of insurance products, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to build long-term client relationships.

·  Potential Earnings: Commissions can be lucrative, especially when selling life insurance, where premiums and therefore commissions can be higher.

Automotive Sales Consultant:

·  Description: Professionals in this role sell new or used cars and may also sell additional services like financing or warranties.

·  Skills Required: In-depth knowledge of car models, financing options, and the ability to close deals quickly.

·  Potential Earnings: Earnings vary widely based on dealership and individual performance, with bonuses for exceeding sales targets.

Software Sales Professional:

·  Description: These salespeople sell software products and services, often requiring a deep understanding of the software’s features and business applications.

·  Skills Required: Technical knowledge, the ability to demonstrate how software meets a client’s needs, and strategic thinking to align product offerings with client objectives.

·  Potential Earnings: Can be highly profitable, especially in B2B software sales, with commissions based on license fees and service agreements.

Direct Sales Professional:

·  Description: This role involves selling products directly to consumers without a fixed retail location. Products can range from household items to health and wellness products.

·  Skills Required: Persuasiveness, stamina, and the ability to build a personal customer base through direct interactions and follow-ups.

·  Potential Earnings: Commissions are typically a high percentage of sales, but total earnings depend heavily on the individual's ability to generate repeat business and manage their sales pipeline.

Sales Manager (Commission-Based):

·  Description: Sales managers oversee sales teams, set goals, and are often still directly involved in selling. Their earnings include a base salary plus a commission on their personal sales and sometimes a bonus based on their team's performance.

·  Skills Required: Leadership, strategic planning, and advanced sales skills.

·  Potential Earnings: Depending on the industry and team size, this can be one of the highest-paying commission-based roles due to multiple streams of commission and bonuses.

Considerations for Commission-Based Roles:

·  Risk vs. Reward: These roles can be high risk, as income is not guaranteed and often fluctuates with market conditions and individual performance. However, the potential for high earnings can be a significant reward for successful salespeople.

·  Skill Development: Continuous professional development is crucial to stay competitive in commission-based roles, as product offerings and market dynamics can change rapidly.

·  Work Environment: These roles often offer more flexibility than salary-based positions, including opportunities for setting one’s own schedule and prioritizing tasks.

Appendix E: Related Reading and Resources

This appendix provides a list of essential readings to support our audience members’ professional growth. Readers can explore foundational texts in sales and entrepreneurship, gain insights into skill development and career planning, and find inspiration for overcoming challenges and building resilience. These resources offer practical strategies and valuable insights to help our students navigate their careers effectively.

Appendix F: Advocacy Organizations

This appendix features a selection of advocacy organizations that can be particularly helpful for students seeking support, resources, and guidance. These organizations offer a range of services, from legal assistance to educational and entrepreneurial support, and can be valuable resources for those on a path to rebuilding their lives.

The Innocence Project

·  Website: www.innocenceproject.org

·  Contact Information: Info@innocenceproject.org | (212) 364-5340

·  Focus: Works to exonerate the wrongly convicted through DNA testing and reforms the criminal justice system to prevent future injustice.

Prison Fellowship

·  Website: www.prisonfellowship.org

·  Contact Information: pfministryservices@pfm.org | 1-800-206-9764

·  Focus: This organization focuses on prison reform and supports prisoners, former prisoners, and their families through advocacy and holistic support.

 
The Sentencing Project

·  Website: www.sentencingproject.org

·  Contact Information: staff@sentencingproject.org | (202) 628-0871

·  Focus: Works for a fair and effective U.S. criminal justice system by promoting reforms in sentencing policy, addressing unjust racial disparities and practices, and advocating for alternatives to incarceration.

The Fortune Society

·  Website: www.fortunesociety.org

·  Contact Information: info@fortunesociety.org | (212) 691-7554

·  Focus: Dedicated to supporting successful reentry from incarceration and promoting alternatives to incarceration, thus strengthening the fabric of communities.

 
The Last Mile

·  Website: www.thelastmile.org

·  Contact Information: info@thelastmile.org

·  Focus: Prepares incarcerated individuals for successful reentry through business and technology training.

JustLeadershipUSA

·  Website: www.justleadershipusa.org

·  Contact Information: info@jlusa.org | (347) 454-2195

·  Focus: Dedicated to cutting the US correctional population in half by 2030 and empowering people most affected by incarceration to drive policy reform.

Legal Services for Prisoners with Children

·  Website: www.prisonerswithchildren.org

·  Contact Information: info@prisonerswithchildren.org | (415) 255-7036

·  Focus: Advocates for the civil rights and empowerment of incarcerated parents, children, family members, and people at risk of incarceration through legal advocacy, public education, and policy reform.

 
Appendix G: Potential Careers

Exploring career opportunities is vital for anyone on the path to rebuilding their professional life. This appendix outlines a variety of roles that leverage entrepreneurial skills, direct and indirect sales experience, customer service expertise, and media and communication skills. These careers range from freelance work, where individuals can use their specific skills independently, to structured roles within larger organizations that offer significant growth potential. Each career path listed here provides a foundation for personal and professional development, drawing on real-world examples and success stories like Ryan's in entrepreneurship and sales.

Careers Related to Entrepreneurship:

·  Freelance Work: Offers flexibility and independence, allowing individuals to leverage their existing skills (writing, editing, web design, etc.).

·  Small Business Owner: Entrepreneurial spirit can be channeled into various ventures like landscaping, cleaning services, or home repair.

·  Consultant: Those with industry-specific expertise (like Ryan's telecom knowledge) can offer consulting services to businesses.

Direct Sales Roles:

·  Retail Sales Associate: Many retailers are open to hiring those seeking to rebuild. This role builds on communication and customer service skills, offering an entry point into sales.

·  Door-to-door sales: While challenging, this type of sales often focuses primarily on work ethic and product knowledge. Success is based on effort rather than complex sales techniques.

·  Telemarketing/Telesales: Leverages existing phone skills and offers opportunities for performance-based bonuses with some companies.

·  Insurance Sales: Some insurance companies offer training programs and pathways for individuals with diverse backgrounds.

·  Real Estate Agent: Depending on state laws, it may be possible to obtain a real estate license. This commission-based career offers independence and earning potential

Indirect/Support Sales Roles

·  Sales Assistant/Sales Support: Assisting experienced sales reps with administrative tasks can provide exposure to the sales environment and lead to growth opportunities.

·  Inside Sales Representative: Focuses on lead generation and qualification, often providing a stepping stone into more direct sales roles.

·  Appointment Setter: Responsible for scheduling appointments for sales teams, building communication skills, and gaining sales process knowledge.

·  Product Demonstrator: In-store or event-based demonstrations rely on strong communication and a knack for showcasing products.

Customer Service:

·  Customer Service Representative: Strong communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills are crucial. Many companies offer on-the-job training.

·  Technical Support Specialist: Tech-savvy individuals with good communication can assist customers with troubleshooting technical issues.

·  Account Manager: Builds relationships with clients, ensuring their needs are met. Leverages communication and customer service skills.

Media & Communications:

·  Content Creator: Writing, editing, and social media skills can be channeled into freelance content creation or social media management roles.

·  Public Relations Specialist: Builds relationships with the media, leveraging communication and interpersonal skills.

·  Event Planner: Coordination, communication, and problem-solving skills are key to organizing successful events.