Coss Marte: From Prison Inmate to Fitness CEO – Building a Business at Saks 5th Avenue | PSFK 2017

In this inspiring PSFK 2017 talk, Coss Marte, a former prison inmate, shares his incredible journey of transformation from selling drugs on the streets to becoming the CEO of a thriving fitness company. Marte recounts how he leveraged his experiences in prison to develop a unique workout methodology, ultimately building a business that defied expectations and stereotypes. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of launching a socially conscious enterprise, eventually seeing his brand featured in prestigious locations like Saks 5th Avenue. This powerful narrative explores resilience, entrepreneurship, and the profound impact of second chances, demonstrating how purpose and determination can reshape one's destiny and create positive change. 🔑 KEY INSIGHTS • Adversity can be a powerful catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurial ventures. • Entrepreneurship offers a viable path for rehabilitation and societal reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals. • Challenging societal stereotypes is crucial for creating inclusive business opportunities and fostering personal growth. • Building a business with a strong social mission can create significant positive impact beyond financial success. • Resilience, determination, and a clear purpose are essential for overcoming significant personal and professional obstacles. ❓ FAQ Q: What is Coss Marte's company called? A: Coss Marte founded ConBody, a prison-style bootcamp fitness program that employs formerly incarcerated individuals. Q: How did Coss Marte transition from prison to CEO? A: While incarcerated, he developed a unique bodyweight workout regimen. Upon release, he transformed this into a business, leveraging his personal story and commitment to social impact. Q: What is the significance of his company being at Saks 5th Avenue? A: It symbolizes a powerful triumph over stereotypes, showcasing a brand born from a challenging past in a high-end, mainstream retail environment, proving that second chances can lead to extraordinary success. Explore expert insights on transformative entrepreneurship and social impact trends with PSFK's Fodda. 🔗 Explore more at https://www.psfk.com 🧠 Feed your AI with expert insights: https://www.fodda.com 📌 Originally on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/223464134