
Legacy of Hope is proud to introduce Josh Holi to its team as a sponsored runner for the Love Run 2025 Half Marathon. If ever there was a story of redemption through self-reliance, Josh’s is it. Once faced with the challenges of incarceration and societal stigma, he has since transformed his life through relentless determination and a commitment to helping others. As a motivational speaker, software product manager, and founder of the personal development brand Cymbyl, Holi channels his past struggles into a force for change. His involvement with Legacy of Hope and participation in events like PHL24 highlight his dedication to both personal growth and community impact, making him a powerful advocate for our mission and a symbol of hope for all.
Holi’s story is a true testament to the transformative power of determination. Born and raised in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Holi’s life took a tumultuous turn in his early twenties which led to his incarceration. Now a software product manager, motivational speaker, and founder of the personal development brand Cymbyl, Holi has redeemed himself—through disciplined hard work, and the message of change and empowerment he seeks to share with the world.
At the age of 22, Holi’s life was upended when he was charged with attempted homicide after an incident with his sister’s ex-boyfriend got out of control. Reflecting on this dark chapter, he recalls, “I went on the run for 13 months before I was apprehended and given a sentence of 5-10 years in Pennsylvania State Prison.” He served five years, a period that would redefine his trajectory. His time in prison proved both cathartic and catalytic. “There were several rock bottom moments,” Josh shares. “but they ignited a process of self-education and personal transformation.”
Holi started Cymbyl, an acronym for “Change Your Mindset, Build Your Life,” in August 2024 as the embodiment of his vision for helping others. Initially focused on supporting those in precarious situations or involved in crime, his vision for the brand has evolved into a broader platform for anyone seeking personal growth. “My goal,” he explains, “is to not only have workshops but also to build a community where people can connect, hold each other accountable, and access resources to help them achieve their goals.”

Holi’s journey to redemption was marked by overcoming the significant obstacle of the stigma of a criminal record. “I definitely faced discrimination and still do,” he acknowledges. “There’s a ton of things I can’t do, whether it’s specific jobs, loans, or even renting apartments.” Despite these challenges, his mindset is firmly rooted in perseverance and optimism. “The things that are for me will be there for me,” he said, emphasizing the importance of not using setbacks as excuses. His straightforward transparency about his past and how it has changed him also helped propel him forward

Education played a key role in Holi’s transformation. After his release, he pursued an associate’s degree and later a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in IT. “Originally, I was a computer science major,” he shares, “but because things started taking off with my career, I was able to save a lot more time and get out of school a year and a half earlier with a different degree.” His determination to succeed academically exemplifies his commitment to creating a better future for himself (and others).
Holi’s connection with Legacy of Hope and its annual PHL24 challenge marks another milestone in his journey. The event—a 24-hour stair climb at the Philadelphia Art Museum’s “Rocky” steps—raises critical funding (as well as awareness) for Philadelphia’s at-risk oncology population—resonated deeply with him due to personal losses and family battles with the disease. “PHL24 was an opportunity to pay my respects to the family members we’ve lost and to those who are still fighting.” Well before the halfway point of the grueling event, with his body “starting to give out,” Holi pushed himself to new limits. “It was challenging to get out of those dark places…where you want to quit and nothing matters,” he reflects.

Holi’s dedication to physical fitness is now firmly planted in running, where the relative newcomer has achieved some significant milestones. “The 2023 Philly Half Marathon was my first race,” he notes. His trajectory from novice to competitor in events like the Love Run and the Philly Marathon has been swift. But Holi doesn’t let it go to his head, stating “Running isn’t about the act itself; it’s about the relationships, connections, and support you gain.” Holi’s humble perspective belies his solid race performances: 2:04 in his first half marathon, 1:54 in his first Love Run, 52.7 miles in the PHL24, and then, a month later, a respectable 4:27 in his first marathon (the Philly Marathon). For good measure, because he was disappointed with his performance on the hilly sections of the marathon, he subjected himself to an unsanctioned marathon on the Ben Franklin Bridge, completing his self-imposed challenge (and all of its 2608′ of climb) in just over 5 hours! Not surprisingly, Holi’s goal for the 2025 Love Run Half Marathon is “around 1:45.”
One of the most profound lessons Holi has gleaned from his experience is the power of perception. “The way I interpret what I see creates the world I’m living in,” he explains. “Once I understood that I’m in control of my reactions and my worldview, everything changed.” This realization is a cornerstone of his philosophy and a central theme in his workshops.

Holi’s mantra, “There’s nothing new under the sun,” encapsulates his approach to adversity. “Whatever challenge I experience, I remind myself that others have faced and overcome it,” he said. “That understanding gives me confidence to push forward.”
Through Cymbyl, Holi aims to inspire change in others. “After everything I went through, the fact that I’ve climbed out of that darkness and now have a positive impact shows what’s possible,” he said. His message isn’t limited to those with similar pasts but extends to anyone navigating personal challenges. “We all face struggles in our own way,” he acknowledges. “I hope to be a proving ground that change is always possible.”Holi’s journey is a powerful reminder of the human capacity for redemption and growth. His story encourages us all to embrace change, pursue our potential, and believe in the possibility of a better tomorrow. You can contribute to Josh’s Love Run fundraiser, which helps Legacy of Hope at-risk cancer patients in Philadelphia. If you want to go the extra [13.1] mile(s)—or 7k—register at https://www.legacyofhope.life/love-run-2025/, and Legacy of Hope will refund your race registration fee if you raise $250. Your contribution could make all the difference for someone facing the fight of their life.