Artie Gonzales is a survivor, a reformed individual, and a role model for those seeking redemption and personal growth. Having experienced the harsh reality of the justice system at a young age, Artie turned his life around during his 21 years of incarceration in the California prison system. He has since emerged as an advocate for legislative reforms, a member of social justice organizations, and a campaigner for empathy and humanity in the workplace. Artie's incredible journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the value of looking beyond our own prejudices to understand and empathize with those facing great adversity.
We found it important to include Artie in our Humanity in the Workplace season because recognizing the humanity of every worker and fostering an environment of empathy and understanding is essential for creating a thriving organization. By embracing inclusivity and valuing each individual's unique perspectives, businesses can develop a more well-rounded decision-making process, increase workforce satisfaction, and ultimately achieve better results.
Artie Gonzales's experiences with Manifest Works, a program that trains system-impacted individuals for positions in the film industry, showcases the power of humanizing the workplace. He credits the program for helping him transition back into society, praising their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Artie's story highlights the potential of a compassionate and inclusive workplace to transform lives and create opportunities for personal and professional growth.
In this episode, we talk about:
- The value of a strong emotional wellness foundation for personal and professional growth
- The key role of social connections and the consequences of isolation on our emotional state
- The human stories intertwined within the justice system
- Key leadership skills that promote humanity and empathy in a work environment
- Leveraging empathetic, compassionate, and heart-centered leadership for a unified mission and vision
About Artie:
Artie Gonzales was tried as an adult at the age of sixteen. He went on to spend twenty-one years of a Life sentence in the California prison system, eight of which included housing within a supermax Solitary Confinement unit. Here, he evolved past his surroundings, committing himself to rehabilitation and non-violence.
Released as a model prisoner in 2015, he has become a leader in his community, an advocate for legislative reforms, and a member of several social justice organizations. After graduating from a Hollywood-oriented workforce development program, ManifestWorks (of which he currently sits on the Board of Directors), he rose through the ranks and made a lifelong dream a reality. He currently works in the TV and Feature Film world.
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