Lifting Ourselves Up: One Step at a Time

On Wednesday evening, our Associates gathered at Gabe’s Bar & Kitchen in St. Paul for another one of our Dinner Symposiums, this time focused on strengthening both body and mind. Our guest speaker, Ben Janike owner of Crossroads Training, brought an energy and insight that hit home for every man in the room.

Ben Janike

Ben, a personal trainer and former college wrestler from Waseca, shared a message that connected deeply with our mission at The Redemption Project. He reminded our Associates that while time and freedom are two sides of the same coin, learning to balance them is part of rebuilding your life.

As Ben put it, “Inside, you had plenty of time but no freedom. Out here, you have freedom, but not as much time.” That truth resonated. The men nodded, understanding the shift from structured days behind bars to the overwhelming responsibility of self-management in the real world.

Ben didn’t stop there. He showed our Associates how to make their health goals achievable, no fancy gym required. From how to eat plenty of protein on a budget to how to “put a gym in your backpack for $20,” his advice was practical, attainable, and immediately useful.

It wasn’t just about fitness, it was about ownership. The same self-discipline required to rebuild your body is the same self-discipline required to rebuild your life.

Our Symposiums are designed to do exactly that, to bring together people who understand what transformation truly takes. Whether it’s developing leadership, learning self-regulation, or discovering healthier habits, these evenings are about progress, encouragement, and community.

Ben’s talk reminded us that transformation is not a single moment; it’s a series of choices, sometimes small, sometimes hard, that add up to a stronger, wiser, more grounded version of yourself.

We’re grateful to Gabe’s Bar & Kitchen for their hospitality and great food, and to all our Associates for showing up ready to learn, reflect, and grow.

At The Redemption Project, we believe that when we lift ourselves, we lift others. And Wednesday night, thanks to Ben, we all walked away standing a little taller.

Thanks,

Dwight