Introduction
My name is Dr. Patrick Haydel. Before my incarceration, I built a career rooted in service—as a chiropractor, a small business owner, and a community-minded entrepreneur in Houma, Louisiana. I founded multiple ventures in healthcare, real estate, and elder care, always striving to improve lives through initiative and empathy.
Since entering the criminal justice system, I’ve committed myself to personal growth and contribution. I now work with the nonprofit Prison Professors, helping others prepare for success through education, mindset development, and service leadership. In this environment, I’ve gravitated toward literature that explores themes of resilience, reinvention, and strategic thinking. One such book is The Art of the Comeback, written by Donald J. Trump.
Why I Read The Art of the Comeback
Before my legal troubles began, I was already intrigued by the concept of rebuilding. Business setbacks, natural disasters, and personal losses had tested me in the past, and I always found a way to bounce back. But nothing could compare to the challenge of incarceration.
When I saw The Art of the Comeback on the reading list, I was drawn to the premise. Trump—regardless of how one feels about his politics—is someone who experienced massive financial collapse and then rebuilt his fortune and brand. I wanted to understand how he thought, what mindset he adopted in the darkest of times, and what strategies he used to reclaim his status.
As someone going through my own comeback story, I felt this book might offer practical and psychological insight to help me navigate my own path forward.
What I Learned from The Art of the Comeback
Trump wrote this book in the aftermath of his early-1990s financial crisis. At the time, he was more than $900 million in personal debt. His casinos were struggling, banks were circling, and the media had written him off. But instead of hiding, he confronted his situation head-on.
Here are the key takeaways that stood out to me:
- Confidence Is Currency
One of Trump’s central themes is that belief in oneself—especially during crisis—is often the most valuable asset. He describes how he walked into bank meetings with bold energy, even when he was on the brink of bankruptcy. That attitude alone helped shift the negotiations. In prison, I’ve learned the same principle: we must carry ourselves with dignity and purpose, even when others may doubt our value. - Control the Narrative
Trump made a point to control his story in the media. He didn’t let others define him as a failure. Instead, he reframed his struggles as temporary and his resilience as permanent. This reminded me of the importance of documentation and storytelling—skills I now teach through Prison Professors Talent. If we don’t tell our own story, someone else will. - Know When to Negotiate, and When to Walk Away
The book contains several examples of tough business deals, real estate restructuring, and media contracts. Trump illustrates the difference between being aggressive and being strategic. He knew when to push and when to pivot. That lesson applies far beyond business; it applies to how we manage relationships, setbacks, and long-term plans—especially while incarcerated. - Your Lowest Moment Can Become Your Launchpad
Trump said that hitting rock bottom forced him to reflect more deeply, realign his priorities, and rebuild with stronger foundations. That message resonated deeply with me. I’ve spent time in prison not just enduring my sentence, but studying, teaching, reflecting, and preparing. Like Trump, I intend to use this experience as the foundation for something greater.
How The Art of the Comeback Will Influence My Life After Release
Reading this book helped reinforce a powerful truth: a comeback is not a single event—it’s a decision, followed by a plan, reinforced by daily action.
When I return to society, I will do so with greater wisdom, humility, and resolve. My “comeback” won’t just be financial. It will be a restoration of trust, purpose, and service. I intend to rebuild the right way: slowly, deliberately, and with full transparency. My work with Prison Professors has already laid the foundation. I’ve seen how giving back—through teaching, writing, and mentoring—can create lasting change.
Whether I return to healthcare, launch new businesses, or expand our nonprofit’s reach, I will do so with the understanding that every setback is an opportunity in disguise. The Art of the Comeback reminded me that falling down is not the end of the story—getting back up is where the story really begins.
Final Thoughts
While Trump’s tone can be brash and his approach aggressive, the lessons in The Art of the Comeback are undeniably valuable—especially for someone facing adversity. The book is a study in resilience, self-belief, and reinvention.
It doesn’t matter where you start again—it matters how. I now choose to move forward with clarity, commitment, and conviction. I’m not ashamed of rebuilding. In fact, I’m proud of it.With gratitude and determination,
Dr. Patrick Haydel
Educator, Mentor, Prison Professors Talent
