Education plays a crucial role in the transformation of incarcerated individuals, improving their chances of reintegration into society.
Having a clear vision, gaining buy-in, and leveraging data are important for success in business, but the criminal justice system needs reform, including more educational opportunities.
Deep dives
Larry Miller's Early Life and Involvement in a Gang
Larry Miller, growing up in Philadelphia, had a nickname 'The Champ' given by his uncle who believed in him. However, he got involved in a gang at a young age and engaged in delinquent activities like stealing a bicycle. Joining the gang was more about feeling a part of something bigger, rather than making money. He also spent time in and out of juvenile detention but never for long periods.
Convicted of Second-Degree Murder and Incarceration
At 16, Larry sought revenge for a friend's death and ended up killing someone who was not part of the rival gang. He pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and served four and a half years in prison, thanks to a plea deal. At the time, four and a half years was not an uncommon sentence for a homicide offender. Larry acknowledges the significant changes in the punitive nature of the criminal justice system since then.
Education and Transformation While Incarcerated
During his time in prison, Larry took advantage of educational opportunities. He earned his associate's degree and even became the valedictorian of his prison class. Education played a crucial role in his transformation, not only helping him gain knowledge but also improving his chances of reintegration into society. Larry emphasizes the importance of providing incarcerated individuals with educational opportunities to help them become contributing members of society.
Success in Business and the Need for Criminal Justice Reform
After his release, Larry built a successful career in business, starting as an entry-level accountant and eventually working his way up to top positions at companies like Nike. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision, pushing people to buy into that vision, and leveraging data to make informed decisions. However, he also highlights the need for criminal justice reform, including providing more opportunities for education and rethinking the current system's punitive nature.
Climbing the corporate ladder to become head of Nike’s Jordan brand, he kept his teenage murder conviction a secret from employers. Larry talks about living in fear, accepting forgiveness, and why it was easier to be bookish behind bars.
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