About Me

Shawn A. Barksdale

My Story

Born into wedlock to Darlene Carden & Calvin Barksdale.

Shawn was born April 19, 1976. Shawn was caught in a vicious cycle when his father was incarcerated while he was only 4yrs old. Although Shawn had gained a foundation of respect and a hard work ethic from his grandparents and great grandparents. The absence of his father led him down a dark path. Ultimately being incarcerated himself at the age of 24.

While confined Shawn began to educate himself gaining his GED, college courses, and a host of trades. His heart gravitated towards Graphics Communication. Learning everything he could about the printing industry, at the same time he was becoming a parent at visiting room tables and through phone conversations.

Today Shawn has been free for 5yrs and fathered two more children. He owns and operates his own printing company Press 4 Time Tees LLC. While still on a journey to find out what a real man is he poses the question what is your TEN MINUTES OF TRUTH.

THOUGHTS

The only difference between winners and losers, successful people and unsuccessful people is one thing. One gives up while the other does not. Life has a way of throwing things at you so unforeseen that it can buckle your knees. But the individual that roots himself in the moment of the storm and looks it in the eye will eventually be victorious! This is something I know. I didn’t have to read about it or have someone tell me their story. Never give up. No matter what the situation is.

Thank You

I want to thank all of my family, friends and business associates for their support along this new chapter of my life. I appreciate every kind word, encouraging letter or phone call and donations in all forms.

I'm just getting started, stay tuned for more while I do my best to bridge the gap between our youth, law enforcement and education, while providing value that everyone can benefit from.

Regards,

Shawn A.Barksdale.

My truth

The Wrong Path

In 2001 I secured my cell in prison by the choices I made.

The decisions I made during that period of my life had a profound effect on everyone around me. My mom and dad were heartbroken, my family and friends were disappointed too because they knew my potential. However there was a critical and devastating byproduct of my incarceration my daughter Ashya was going to be without her father's protection and daily in-person guidance for the next 15 years!

During my time incarcerated I made the most of the positive opportunities that were at my disposal. I could have felt sorry for myself and blamed others for my situation, but I was not going to lie to myself and live in a fantasy land. I chose a positive path that included a strong spiritual foundation, educational and trade related certifications and followed my newly fashioned blueprint preparing for my release.

The Pivot

Once released on January 26, 2016, I took on many jobs, one being a fast food chain employee starting at the bottom. I cleaned the bathrooms, floors and picked up trash in the parking lot. That was necessary back then to earn money and be able to make the next move.

Fast forward to today and several other jobs under my belt, I was a byproduct of downsizing by my employer and decided to do what I had always wanted to do. I started my own business in 2018 and launched Press 4 Time Tees, LLC. It was more then a business launch for me it meant the financial stability it would take to become the man I knew I should be. One of the proudest days in my life was driving to

Virginia Commonwealth University with my daughter Ashya to move her in for her 1st semester. She now has a 4.0 GPA and is on track to become to live her best life.

About me