“taking bias out of the box” testimonials

“Ty’s keynote presentation was phenomenal! With over 50 people in attendance, all the participants left with the knowledge of how to better understand and represent the second chance community throughout Oregon. Businesses in the room have since reached out to work on ways to address policy change and hiring best practices surrounding those with felony records.”

Amanda Wall
Community Relations Manager
Workforce Clackamas

“An engaging, high-energy presentation with real lived experience and stories to bring home the message of the challenges faced by those that are justice impacted and the value of hiring those individuals that are seeking employment.”

Travis Piatz
Chief Operating Officer & Equal Opportunity Officer
Workforce Southwest

“Ty Reed was my favorite DEI speaker. Ty represents an often-overlooked aspect of DEI. His personal story and his empathetic and thought-provoking commentary speak volumes to hiring managers with biased, preconceived notions. Ty went the extra mile to research our industry and provide supporting commentary from our regulatory body, and provide real solutions to credit unions who struggle to employ individuals with unrelated criminal history.”

Clint Armistead
Director of Training and Events
Heartland Credit Union Association

“Ty highlighted not only the unique skills and resilience these individuals bring to the workforce but also the positive impact on community reintegration and reducing recidivism. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of second chances and the value of diverse experiences in the workplace.”

“What truly stood out to me was the level of engagement from the employers. They asked thoughtful questions, and I feel several of them might genuinely change their hiring approaches as a result. The speaker's high energy was incredibly refreshing, and I especially appreciated when he emphasized that these individuals have already paid their dues. He urged us not to keep punishing them, which seemed to resonate with many employers and opened their minds to reconsidering justice-involved candidates for hire.”

“Ty was honest, articulate & vulnerable. He made some excellent points in a compelling & engaging way, & he was funny! Thank you.”

“Awesome story of recovery, Resilience, humor, vulnerability and TRUTH. Good stuff! Thank you for sharing your story. I, too, share a story like yours. I honestly didn't think that I could ever be free. Today, I have that peace and contentment I’ve been searching for my entire life! Change IS possible!”

“Informative and inspiring. It caused me to reach out to him immediately for further information about how I can best help my participants with justice involvement in their history.”

“Great content! Wonderful presentation and engaging.”

“Great session,  very real, strong data and inspiring story.”

“Interesting, honest, engaging and informative, forthcoming. Loved it”

“Engaging and attention-grabbing - appreciate the transparency.”

“Great speaking, engaging with a great mission and purpose. Informative - amazing lesson thru lived experience.”