1. Abstract 

Overcome adversity, foster lifelong learning, and create success through reinvention and networking. Inspired by Moises' story, students will learn valuable strategies for self-directed growth, cultivating resilience, and seizing opportunities. This session underscores the importance of adaptability and shares practical steps anyone can apply to define success and achieve personal and professional goals. 

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 2. Detailed Narrative 

Moises' inspiring success story highlights the immense power of reinvention, grit, and strategic networking. Born into a poor family in the Dominican Republic, Moises faced significant challenges early in life. Amid poverty and fractured family dynamics, he moved several times across different countries during his youth, making it nearly impossible to pursue a formal education. Despite these barriers, Moises built his career from entry-level jobs and eventually transformed into a successful entrepreneur and industry leader, most recently directing renewable energy ventures. 

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Stepping Forward Without a Map 

Moises’ early life exemplifies the notion that knowledge doesn’t have to come from traditional schooling. Limited schooling in both South and Central America, combined with a demanding early life, forced Moises to rely on self-teaching and real-world experiences. At the age of 16, upon returning to the U.S., he quickly took up work to support himself and his family, starting as a dishwasher. 

Even in low-paying roles, Moises applied an exceptional work ethic and saw each day as a chance to improve his future. "I was diligent and present every day," he recalls. He didn’t stop at being a dishwasher—within months, he made himself visible to management by networking and observing opportunities around him. 

During the challenges of my imprisonment, I began to learn about the immense value of networking. Had I had an opportunity to listen to Moises' story back then, it would have reinforced this lesson that, regardless of what limitations existed in my environment, by being kind and courteous, and developing a better understanding of the world, opportunities would open to build connections and relationships that would open new opportunities. I followed that principle, by writing letters to people whom I thought could be influential in shaping my future.

Building an influential network is like building a portfolio of assets, perhaps even more valuable than acquiring stocks or real estate. When we build a mindset like we heard in Moises' story, we simultaneously develop skills that allow us to prosper in any sector or environment. We've got to show that willingness to engage meaningfully with those around us, in the restricted environment of prison. We can always find people who could teach us something valuable or inspire us with their stories. If we read about leaders, we can write unsolicited letters to reach beyond the boundaries, as I described in Earning Freedom: Conquering a 45-Year Prison term.

Listening, learning, and sharing ideas becomes a way to build relationships that have depth and purpose. These lessons that I learned while in prison stayed with me and became foundational to my approach in life after incarceration.

For those who feel that networking is out of reach due to their current situation, I urge you to pay close attention to the lessons that Moises gave us. Consider that small, intentional actions can make all the difference. You don’t need to join an organization or hold a certain job to improve your networking skills. Start simple—read books by authors who illustrate the power of building relationships. Observe the leaders and connectors in your life, whether they are colleagues, mentors, or friends. Pay attention to how they approach conversations, treat others, and create value for those around them. You can develop the same skills by being open-minded, curious, and proactive.

Building networking is like sowing seeds of trust, collaboration, and growth that will yield rewards at unexpected times. It starts with improving yourself and being willing to learn from those around you. Everyone, no matter their circumstances, has the potential to build meaningful connections that can transform their future.

Moises’ story highlights the Straight-A Guide’s emphasis on Attitude and Action. Adopting a growth-focused mindset and taking consistent action—even in small ways—laid the groundwork for his future success. 

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Networks That Open Doors 

Moises built connections at every job, showcasing one of his greatest strengths—networking. During our interview, I called that principle out because I wanted members of our community to listen to his response. By developing genuine relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and even customers, Moises gained opportunities long before he was professionally qualified. 

One pivotal moment came while working at a private club in Chicago. Moises showed up every day with energy, performed his duties exceptionally, and assisted others when he could. "You’re pretty nice and treat people well," one of the club’s prominent members, a CEO, said to Moises. This CEO eventually offered Moises an entry-level clerical role at his $200 million company—a life-changing opportunity despite Moises lacking formal education. 

This move speaks directly to the lesson that success in business (and life) often depends on soft skills like charisma, kindness, and dependability. These traits reinforced Moises’ authenticity (a Straight-A Guide principle) and helped him cultivate credibility that opened doors for career progression. 

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Turning Hard Work Into Expertise 

Understanding the value of learning, Moises capitalized on every opportunity at the finance company to add skills. By voluntarily cross-training across departments, including trading and sales, he acquired hands-on expertise and an insider’s understanding of key business operations. "I asked department managers to train me—I showed them how serious I was," Moises explains. 

He didn’t allow his lack of formal education to stop him. Like many incarcerated individuals rebuilding their futures now, Moises leveraged self-reliance and adaptability by studying any material he could find. This practical learning approach mirrors the Straight-A Guide’s focus on Aspiration and Awareness—recognizing gaps in experience and working strategically to address them. 

Moises’s story exemplifies the incredible power of self-directed learning as a tool for personal transformation. By seeking out opportunities to learn from books, he expanded his knowledge far beyond his initial limitations, immersing himself in subjects that bridged the gap between where he was and where he aspired to be. Reading became a lifeline, offering insights, strategies, and hope.

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From Learning to Leading 

Moises’s commitment to growth, combined with his ability to network, eventually catapulted him into leadership roles. After mastering various functions within the finance company, he found himself mentoring others, sharing the same lessons that had transformed his own life. His story underscores the Straight-A Guide principle of Achievement—taking the knowledge and skills gained over time and using them to create value for others. 

Notably, Moises never viewed his past as a limitation but instead as a source of strength. He liked the idea of working in the mail room, because it gave him an opportunity to learn more about the company. He embraced his experiences, recognizing how the challenges he had overcome set him apart. By openly sharing his story, he inspired others, built deeper relationships, and further reinforced his authenticity. This combination of vulnerability and confidence became one of his greatest assets.

Moises found solace and wisdom in reading books, which became a pivotal tool in his growth. These books introduced him to the fundamentals of business, effective management strategies, and the art of connecting with people. By immersing himself in the experiences and insights of successful leaders and thinkers, Moises developed a nuanced understanding of what it takes to thrive in a professional environment. He skillfully applied these lessons to his own career, using his newfound knowledge to approach challenges with confidence and creativity.

Despite his progress, Moises recognized that the absence of formal education sometimes hindered his opportunities for advancement. Determined to overcome this barrier, he made the courageous decision to return to school. Balancing work and study, he earned a GED and then began working toward more credentials in the community college.  The academic credentials strengthened both his confidence and his credibility, reaffirming his belief that lifelong learning was essential for personal growth, and with personal growth came more opportunities. 

His transition from learner to leader exemplifies the essence of personal transformation. It reflects the fact that leadership comes with influence, service, and the ability to guide others toward their goals. Moises demonstrated that the most impactful leaders are often those who understand growth as a lifelong process and have a genuine desire to see others succeed. 

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Life Lessons for All 

Moises’s story serves as a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, the path forward is shaped by your decisions and actions. His life embodies the Straight-A Guide’s principles, showing how a positive attitude, relentless action, and a commitment to learning can redefine possibilities. The willingness to engage with others, invest in growth, and stay disciplined through setbacks opened doors he never imagined. 

This narrative encourages all of us, regardless of our circumstances, to reflect on our potential. Whether you are currently facing limitations or seeking to advance in your career, the lessons within Moises’s story highlight universal truths—kindness matters, adaptability is key, and consistent effort pays off. By taking small, purposeful steps, anyone can transform their situation and create opportunities for a brighter future.

With his practice approach of reaching out to managers and mentors who could coach him directly, and asking the right questions, he unlocked practical wisdom that could only come from real-world experience. This dual approach—combining independent study with collaborative mentorship—underscores the Straight-A Guide’s emphasis on Action and Accountability, reminding us that growth is possible when we take charge of our education and actively seek knowledge from all available sources.

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Building From the Bottom Up 

After years of corporate growth, Moises ventured into entrepreneurship by co-founding an innovative staffing agency with his brother. Recognizing a labor shortage in Ohio’s hotel industry, they launched a recruitment firm in their basement. The agency focused on relocating underemployed workers from other states, offering transportation support, rent subsidies, and long-term employment. 

This massive undertaking required resilience and problem-solving. Moises emphasized planning, budgeting, and maintaining accountability. “We couldn’t overspend. We had to balance every hire against contracts in place. It was disciplined work,” he notes. The company grew from $65,000 in initial investment to over $2.5 million in yearly revenue in its early years.  From there, it grew significantly larger.

Expanding his staffing agency to include other industries like manufacturing and logistics, Moises offered solutions to clients while helping individuals from underprivileged backgrounds find steady income. His entrepreneurial mindset embodies Awareness and Accountability at their peak. 

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Lessons for Personal Growth 

Moises’ story is a master class in turning challenges into opportunities. For students following the Straight-A Guide, his approach highlights multiple strategies to begin preparing for success today, regardless of current circumstances. 

• Always be a lifelong learner. Moises reminds us, "Even when I achieved success, I kept learning. There’s always more to grow." 
• Lead with authenticity. By demonstrating real effort and value in every role, Moises built credibility that advanced his career. 
• Take small but meaningful actions. Decades of small steps, like asking questions, reading, and solving problems, compounded over time into monumental success. 

‍3. Vocabulary Development 

1. Resilience – The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties. 
2. Networking – Building relationships to create opportunities. 
3. Accountability – Taking responsibility for personal and professional actions. 
4. Scalability – An organization's ability to grow without being hampered by structure or available resources when facing increased demand. 
5. Entrepreneurship – The activity of setting up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit. 
6. Charisma – Personal charm or influence. 
7. Authenticity – The quality of being genuine or honest. 
8. Soft Skills – Personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively with others. 
9. Aspiration – A strong desire to achieve something higher or more meaningful. 
10. Lifelong Learning – Committing to continually updating one’s skills. 

‍4. Self-Directed Reflection Questions 

1. What specific steps can you take to build a strong work ethic, like Moises? 
2. How can developing soft skills (e.g., communication or networking) open opportunities for you? 
3. What areas of self-education could propel your growth—both now and after release? 
4. How does daily discipline influence long-term success? 
5. What role does adaptability play when new challenges arise? 
6. How can you use small, meaningful personal actions to build credibility in your life? 
7. Consider a time you overcame adversity; what tools helped you succeed? 
8. What resources around you could help jumpstart your learning or networking while in confinement? 
9. How might clearly defining success give you better direction in preparing for release? 
10. What opportunities for growth can you identify in your current environment? 

‍5. Recommended Books 

1. The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People 

This classic by Stephen R. Covey offers a powerful framework for personal and interpersonal effectiveness. The book outlines seven key habits that foster growth, resilience, and a proactive mindset. It encourages readers to take responsibility for their actions, prioritize what truly matters, and build meaningful relationships through empathy and collaboration. By applying these principles, individuals can transform their perspectives and create a strong foundation for success. Its timeless lessons make it an essential read for anyone seeking lasting personal growth and self-mastery. 

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1. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries 

This book teaches how to build businesses efficiently and test ideas before fully committing resources. Like Moises, who started his staffing company with limited capital, this book explores methods for growing without excessive risk. "Success is learning how to solve your customer's problem," says Ries—this parallels Moises’ focus on servant leadership. 

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2. Grit by Angela Duckworth 

Duckworth explores how resilience and perseverance, not talent, define success—a central theme in Moises' life. "Grit is sticking with your future, every day," echoes Moises’ self-driven trajectory despite early disadvantages. 

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3. Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi 

This book focuses on the power of networking to build professional and personal success. Moises’ career highlights the importance of relationships in advancing through life and career ladders. "Success in life comes from connections others want to support." 

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6. Recap of Straight-A Guide Lessons (Applied to Moises’ Story) 

1. Define Success – Moises knew he wanted a better life and charted a clear vision for growth. 
2. Set Clear Goals – From dishwashing to entrepreneurship, every role advanced his broader goals. 
3. Attitude – His optimism and hard work won allies and opened doors. 
4. Aspiration – Moises constantly sought new opportunities to build skills and achieve more. 
5. Action – He worked daily to advance and invested effort into every task. 
6. Accountability – Moises held himself responsible for maintaining financial discipline while scaling. 
7. Awareness – By recognizing opportunities (e.g., labor shortages), he built viable solutions. 
8. Authenticity – His consistent, genuine effort earned trust throughout his career. 
9. Achievement – Celebrating small wins fueled long-term growth. 
10. Appreciation – Moises’ commitment to serving his employees and mentoring others reflects gratitude. 

‍7. Sample Response 

Question: What steps can you take to build a strong work ethic, like Moises? 

Below is a sample response, something I would have written if I were still in prison. I would have used that response to build a profile, showing others how I am learning from masters to prepare myself for success upon release.

Response: 

Building a strong work ethic requires self-discipline, clear goals, and commitment to consistent action. For me, it started with an honest look at where I was and where I wanted to go. Being in prison gave me the time to reflect and redefine who I wanted to become. I realized that the foundation of a strong work ethic lies in taking full responsibility for your actions and decisions. No blaming, no excuses—just ownership. 

I focused on developing good habits, even in the small, everyday things. Sticking to a schedule, reading, learning something new, and practicing patience were all ways I strengthened my discipline. I set clear goals for myself, no matter how distant they seemed, and broke them into achievable steps. Celebrating those small victories gave me the motivation to keep pushing.

Another crucial part was finding purpose in everything I did. Whether it was small tasks or planning for my future, I reminded myself that every effort counted and connected to a bigger picture. Gratitude played a major role as well. I appreciated the lessons life was teaching me—both the hard ones and the rewarding ones—and I vowed to carry those lessons forward. 

Lastly, I learned from people I admired. Like Moises, I focused on staying authentic, staying humble, and staying aware of opportunities to grow and contribute. A strong work ethic doesn't happen overnight, but with relentless effort and purpose, it becomes a part of who you are.

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8. Challenge 

Build a comprehensive profile on Prison Professors Talent to showcase your self-directed growth and progress. Use the reflection questions above to journal concrete strategies for learning, networking, or setting examples of resilience in confinement. Detailed profiles like yours help advocate for higher levels of liberty by demonstrating extraordinary efforts you’ve made toward change. Every action you take today gets you one step closer to achieving lasting success. 

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Call to Action 

No one should work harder than you for your freedom. Start now.

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