Building Businesses That Heal: Kabira Stokes on Circular Economy and Social Impact
Kabira Stokes never planned to become an entrepreneur. After 9/11, she became an anti-war activist, searching for ways to create meaningful change. That journey led her from city government and criminal justice policy into an unexpected realization: instead of waiting for policy to create opportunities, she could create jobs herself. In this episode, Tom Vozzo sits down with Kabira Stokes to explore the intersection of justice, business, and community. Kabira shares how founding Isidore Recycling eventually became Homeboy Recycling, why hiring people returning from incarceration isn't charity but smart business, and how entrepreneurship can become a powerful vehicle for second chances. Together, they reflect on the evolution of Homeboy Recycling from a small startup generating $650,000 in revenue to a thriving, multimillion-dollar enterprise that creates meaningful employment for people rebuilding their lives. Kabira also discusses why local action creates lasting change, how community gives people hope, and why businesses have a responsibility to see potential where others only see a criminal record. Key Takeaways One conversation can spark a movement A simple conversation about recycling eventually became Homeboy Recycling, proving big ideas often begin with small moments. Partnerships create greater impact Homeboy helped scale the business with funding, wraparound services, and a shared commitment to second chances. People deserve opportunities, not labels With the right support, people returning from incarceration become dependable employees and future leaders. Business can be a force for good A successful company can deliver excellent service while creating meaningful employment for people rebuilding their lives. Transformation is the real measure of success The greatest achievement isn't revenue, it's watching employees build lasting careers, stability, and hope for the future. In This Episode: [00:00] Introduction [01:10] First Homeboy encounter [02:05] 9/11 to activism [04:25] Faith and justice roots [05:15] Inside city government [07:10] Studying prisons and reentry [09:10] Launching Isidore Recycling [12:15] Joining forces with Homeboy [15:30] Social enterprise realities [18:00] Hiring stories that matter [21:00] How to hire returning citizens [22:15] New York and the next chapter [25:15] Local change and community [28:05] Why recycle with Homeboy [28:50] Closing thanks and farewell Notable Quotes "I guess I could go work for the state and create policy that will create jobs, or I could just create some jobs." — Kabira Stokes [00:10:04] “If you're gonna work hard at something, it might as well have real impact.” — Kabira [15:46] Resources and Links Homeboy Industries https://homeboyindustries.org/ https://www.youtube.com/@HomeboyIndustries_LA/videos Donate: https://homeboyindustries.org/donate/donate-online/ Homeboy Media https://homeboyindustries.org/social-enterprises/homeboy-media/ Thomas Vozzo https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasvozzo The Homeboy Way: A Radical Approach to Business and Life: https://www.amazon.com/Homeboy-Way-Radical-Approach-Business/dp/082945456X Credits: Hosted by: Tom Vozzo Produced by: Podify, and Alexa Rousso and Melody Carter of Homeboy Media
