Episode 88: Tom Vozzo of HomeBoy Industries
- June 23, 2025
Tom Vozzo of HomeBoy Industries: Baking Second Chances for Those Who Need It Most
Tom Vozzo is the CEO of Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest reentry and rehabilitation organization for formerly incarcerated individuals. Prior to leading Homeboy, Vozzo served as CEO of ARAMARK Uniform and Career Apparel Group, where he oversaw operations generating over $1.5 billion in annual revenue and played a key role in the company’s successful IPO. His corporate leadership background and deep commitment to social enterprise uniquely position him to bridge the worlds of business and criminal justice reform.
“The most important thing we can do is to meet people exactly where they are the moment they walk through our doors—no paperwork, no forms, no judgment. Just a hot meal, a handshake, and a human connection. That’s the foundation of everything we do at Homeboy.”
In this episode, Vozzo offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Homeboy Industries operates as a national model for reentry, healing, and second chances. He and the hosts explore the organization’s founding by Father Greg Boyle during the “decade of death” in 1980s Los Angeles, and the radical kinship model that still drives the organization today. The interview highlights how Homeboy’s strategic location—just blocks from the county jail—allows it to be the first stop for many newly released individuals, offering everything from food and hygiene kits to employment and community. Listeners hear firsthand about the bakery and café run by Homeboy participants, the energy of the daily morning meetings, and the deep sense of dignity and belonging the space creates.
Episode Outline
(00:00:00) Introduction to Tom Vozzo and Homeboy Industries
(00:02:40) The origins of Homeboy Industries and the “Decade of Death” in Los Angeles
(00:05:10) The concept of radical kinship and how it drives Homeboy’s mission
(00:08:00) What it means to walk with people—not save them—after incarceration
(00:11:20) Tom Vozzo’s transition from corporate America to social impact work
(00:14:05) Why Homeboy’s bakery is more than a business—it’s a lifeline
(00:17:00) The role of employment in healing and reentry
(00:20:30) The significance of Homeboy’s location near the LA County Jail
(00:24:00) First moments after release: “people still wearing paper suits”
(00:27:10) Homeboy’s model as a global blueprint for reentry programs
(00:30:00) How scalable social enterprise can shift systems, not just individuals
(00:33:30) Why kinship—not charity—is the foundation for real change
(00:37:00) Closing reflections on hope, transformation, and belonging
Episode Resources:
With a 75% post-incarceration employment rate and less than 5% recidivism rate, The Last Mile has created a new precedent for job opportunities and sustainable wages for justice-impacted individuals. By giving returned citizens proper training while incarcerated, job search support, and following up with support services, The Last Mile is moving the needle on Fair Chance employment.
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