9 Questions with… Josh Gordon, Communications Director

In this employee spotlight, we sit down with Recidiviz’s Communications Director Josh Gordon. From the book that changed him to his top work highlight, learn more about Josh through this short Q&A.

Coffee or tea?

“Coffee. Specifically, an iced vanilla latte with oat milk – all year round.”

What piece of advice would you give your younger self?

“Your differences are what make you special. Self-love is the best gift you can give yourself.”

Tell us about what you do at Recidiviz.

“I’m the communications director at Recidiviz. My days focus on crafting stories around Recidiviz’s impact and mission and figuring out where, how, and to whom we need to be telling our story. My role is fun because I’m constantly collaborating with folks across the team doing the work and the people being impacted by the work. 

Conversations about criminal justice and public safety focus a lot on the problems, but not nearly enough on solutions. I’m working to help people envision what’s possible when we invest in what’s working.”

What’s a highlight or two from your work at Recidiviz so far?

“That’s easy: the 2022 Year in Review. I started crafting it a couple of months after joining Recidiviz, so it was a crash course on all the wonderful progress the team has made. Gathering stories and sharing our wins with our supporters keeps the work fresh and exciting.”

What person, event, experience, or values have most shaped your desire to improve the criminal justice system?

“I grew up with family members who were in and out of the system. At a young age, I experienced the heartache that comes after your loved ones are incarcerated. It feels like they’ve disappeared. And it’s really hard to stay in contact after that. 

I work to improve the criminal justice system because I care about strengthening families and restoring communities. And I want us, as a country to listen more to victims who want to hold people accountable not just through prison, but also through rehabilitation, mental health treatment, addiction treatment, and community supports.”

What’s something quirky we don’t know about you?

“Hmmm. I’m pretty clumsy at times.”

Last show you binged?

“The Gilded Age. It follows the stories of people living in New York City during a period of tremendous economic change and covers the conflict between the old ways and brand-new systems. The writing is just *chef’s kiss*.”

A book that changed you?

“All About Love by bell hooks. In the book, she discusses how we can find and nurture love. It’s possible to analyze the love in your life and amplify it. And too often, we neglect the communal and platonic love that makes our lives full of purpose and passion.”

If you could eat one food exclusively forever, what would it be?

“Pizza, as long as I can adjust the toppings whenever I want!”

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