Cheri Garcia's Journey: From Addiction to Second Chances
My conversation with Cheri Garcia, founder of Cornbread Hustle was very raw, very vulnerable and opened my eyes to the movement around second chance hiring that’s growing quickly here in America.
Imagine finding hope and a new beginning after hitting rock bottom. In this episode of Stigma Podcast, Stephen Hays sits down with Cheri Garcia, the dynamic founder of Cornbread Hustle, to discuss the power of second chance hiring. Cornbread Hustle is a unique staffing agency that helps former felons and those in recovery rebuild their lives through meaningful employment or entrepreneurship.
Cheri's own story of battling methamphetamine and alcohol addiction is both raw and inspiring, resonating deeply with Stephen and countless others who have faced similar struggles. Cheri opens up about her journey to sobriety, sharing how she educated herself on the detrimental effects of alcohol on her body. Realizing that alcohol was exacerbating her anxiety rather than alleviating it, she found the motivation to seek help through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
Her path to recovery didn't stop there; she channeled her newfound clarity into starting a business and eventually carving out a successful career in the TV news industry. In their heartfelt conversation, Cheri and Stephen explore the critical role of transitional jobs for individuals coming out of prison. They highlight the importance of these opportunities in breaking the cycle of recidivism and fostering genuine transformation.
Cheri also discusses the challenges and rewards of running a staffing agency focused on second chances, emphasizing how employment can be a lifeline for those striving to rebuild their lives. Listeners will be moved by Cheri's dedication to helping others rebrand themselves and achieve their goals. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of giving people a second chance.
Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in stories of transformation, this episode offers a compelling look at how employment can be a catalyst for change. Tune in to hear Cheri's inspiring journey and learn how Cornbread Hustle is changing lives one job at a time.