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Insights from John Rush on Transforming Communities Through Compassionate Leadership

In this episode of the “Building Better Business” podcast, host Glenn Bryan delves into a compelling conversation with John Rush, a seasoned social entrepreneur. Rush’s enterprises – including 180 Demo, CleanTurn, Third Way Cafe, and Rush Real Estate Holding – epitomize the synergy between profitability and social impact.

A Conversation with John Rush

In our latest episode of “Building Better Business,” host Glenn Bryan continues the inspiring conversation with John Rush, a social entrepreneur whose ventures integrate social causes into their core operations. Rush, who spearheads initiatives like Clean Turn, 180 Demo, Third Way Cafe, and Rush Real Estate Holdings, emphasizes the profound impact of engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This conversation unveils how compassion and intentional leadership can create transformative opportunities for both businesses and communities.

Embracing Diversity and Understanding

John Rush advocates for the intentional engagement with people who differ in appearance, beliefs, and background without the intent to change them. “When we listen, learn, and strive to understand others, we open ourselves up to personal growth,” Rush notes. “This mindset facilitates better leadership and diversifies teams.”

These conversations reveal common grounds and often spark entrepreneurial innovation. This principle is exemplified in the initiative by Matt Palmer, who organizes visits for businesspeople to prisons. These visits offer practical exposure and understanding, bridging the gap between two very different worlds.

Building Bridges, Not Walls

Rush’s approach to building businesses revolves around opening doors for individuals with past incarceration challenges. Clean Turn and 180 Demo, commercial cleaning and demolition companies respectively, have, over the past 12 years, provided employment to over 1,200 individuals. These businesses are platforms for offering second chances and a fresh start in life.

“Many of our employees have previously been incarcerated or are in recovery from addiction,” says Rush. “We hire based on potential and provide opportunities for those relegated to the margins because of their past mistakes.”

Rush emphasizes that past missteps do not define a person’s potential. At Clean Turn, 180 Demo, and Third Way Cafe, the goal is to offer quality services while fostering a supportive culture that boosts employees’ success and contributions to the community.

Economic Insights: The Cost of Incarceration

One of Rush’s key points is the economic inefficiency of incarceration. With the cost of incarcerating an inmate in Ohio roughly $30,000 per year, Rush argues that these funds could be redirected to robust educational opportunities, especially over a lengthy 20-year period.

In his organizations, hiring processes are rigorous yet inclusive. New hires undergo a comprehensive orientation, which includes meeting with Rush and his wife to understand the company history, values, and mission. This inclusive approach is designed to embolden employees, equipping them with both professional and life skills necessary for their holistic development.

Culture of Forgiveness and Dignity

Creating a culture of forgiveness is paramount to Rush. He believes that by fostering an environment where forgiveness is freely given, businesses can encourage risk-taking and deeper engagement among employees. This notion is rooted in Rush’s personal experience of extending and receiving forgiveness.

“Those who have experienced forgiveness are often more inclined to forgive others,” he points out. This ethos helps break the cycles of regret and shame, allowing individuals to maximize their potential and contribute meaningfully to the workplace and society.

Beyond Employment: Transforming Communities

The impact of John Rush’s initiatives extends beyond mere employment. Community transformation without gentrification is at the heart of efforts like Clean Turn’s housing initiative. Success stories, such as Alicia’s journey from tenant to homeowner, are testament to the profound influence of supportive and inclusive employment practices.

Third Way Cafe, another of Rush’s ventures, serves as a community anchor—a hub for collaboration across various sectors, including recovery and business. These initiatives underscore the dual mission of providing employment while fostering strong community ties.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

In closing, Rush advises entrepreneurs to adopt hiring practices that embrace diversity and integrate a strong community focus. He highlights the significance of treating employees with dignity and embedding human values into business operations. Host Glenn Bryan echoes this sentiment, reinforcing that the human side of business leads to better engagement and productivity—ultimately contributing to sustainable profitability.

Conclusion: Leading with Heart

The conversation between Glenn Bryan and John Rush illuminates the powerful intersection of business and social impact. By leading with compassion, embracing diversity, and fostering a culture of forgiveness, entrepreneurs can create thriving businesses that not only succeed financially but also make a positive mark on the communities they serve.

Rush’s transformative approach to business is a compelling reminder that at the heart of every successful enterprise should be a commitment to understanding, supporting, and uplifting individuals from all walks of life. This dedication to building better businesses through better practices not only benefits employees but the broader community as well, making a lasting impact that transcends the bottom line.