A few months ago, when Catherine Hoke, founder of Defy Ventures, spoke at CreativeMornings, she asked: “What if you were only known for the worst thing you’ve ever done in your life?” I remember how that question hit me in the gut. It’s a powerful one.

And she has built her calling around that question. She runs Defy Ventures to help ex-convicts get back on their feet, write a new promising chapter of their book. She wants to prove that it is in fact possible for people to make a 180-degree turn, change their habits, and start over! Defy is helping ex-convicts start their own businesses, and giving them a chance to change their path and repave their future.

My studiomates Bas and Hanne were so struck with Catherine’s mission that they offered to help her document and celebrate Defy Ventures graduates, let them tell their stories. And today, Judged.co went live.

Listen to these stories. I know they’ll inspire you too.