The Gym That Became a Lifeline for Former Prisoners

The Birth of Conbody

Coss Marte, a former drug dealer and prisoner, founded Conbody, a gym run entirely by fellow returning citizens. Marte developed his own workout while serving five years in prison and came up with a business plan to hire people coming out of the prison system.

The Struggle is Real

The documentary 'Conbody vs Everybody' follows Marte's journey, showcasing the struggles of building a business staffed by people with criminal records. The team faced numerous challenges, including denied investments, evictions, and byzantine parole rules.

The Data Analysis

• Marte lost over 70lbs in six months in a prison cell.
• Conbody operates in one of New York's most rapidly gentrified neighborhoods.
• The documentary series spans five hours and was culled from hundreds of hours filmed over eight years.

The Impact Analysis

Conbody provides more than just a job; it offers a sense of community and purpose to those re-entering society. Marte acts as both an employer and a mentor, guiding his employees through the challenges of rebuilding their lives.

The Prediction

As gentrification continues to transform the neighborhood, Conbody's mission to provide opportunities for former prisoners serves as a beacon of hope. The documentary showcases the harsh realities of re-entry and the importance of rehabilitation.