John Turnipseed

John is a former gang leader, pimp and drug dealer, who spent his childhood battling demons brought on by a volatile, abusive father. In a 20-year journey, John Turnipseed has transformed into a community leader, pastor, speaker, and serves as the Director of The Center for Fathering and Executive Vice President of Urban Ventures, a nonprofit set in the heart of  the same Minneapolis gang territory that John and his family terrorized. John’s life-changing turnaround fueled his passion for rebuilding relationships between fathers and their families. His story powerfully demonstrates how faith, hope, and forgiveness  backed up by persevering mentors and role models are essential for real and relevant transformation. It also encourages us all to never give up on people. He is passionate about supporting communities coming together to turn around neighborhoods and cities into places of hope.