Unplugged from the Matrix

Summary

In 2007, Kenneth Coats started a business helping Chicagoans expunge their arrest records so they could improve their job prospects. After a challenge from the Illinois Attorney General shut down that venture, Kenneth reinvented his business with an assist from a local clinic that provides free legal services to entrepreneurs. In this episode, hear how Kenneth pivoted—and what he did to ensure he couldn't return to his previous career.

Show Notes

Our 2017 episode, "Can You Sell Water? Part 2" - 00:29

The Institute for Justice Clinic on Entrepreneurship at the University of Chicago - 00:37

The study "The Growth, Scope, and Spatial Distribution of People With Felony Records in the United States, 1948–2010" was published in the October 2017 issue of Demography - 3:23

Microsoft made $16,005 in revenues its first year - 5:31

Wikipedia article on ichthys - 9:22

"Care.com Puts Onus on Families to Check Caregivers’ Backgrounds—With Sometimes Tragic Outcomes" (Wall Street Journal, March 2019) - 12:42

"103 Uber drivers accused of sexual assault or abuse" (CNN, April 2018) - 12:44

KENTECH - 12:48

What is Rework?

A podcast by Basecamp about the better way to work and run your business. We bring you stories and unconventional wisdom from Basecamp’s co-founders and other business owners.