Hero To Someone: Rodney Harmon, Black MentoUrs Reentry Reframed podcast

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Starting at just 8 years old, Jason Miles was involved in the justice system. When asked where things began to go “off track,” Jason replied, “You know, I never was on the track to begin with.” Later in life, he was able to identify much of his troubled youth, destruction of property, and rebelling against authority linked back to the anger he harbored for his father not being present. When considering what possible interventions that could’ve helped, Jason thinks he was just “too much.” Entering the prison system at 14 years old, he recalls being one of the youngest youths in the juvenile facility. After releasing from the juvenile prison, Jason’s experimentation with substances started to spiral out of control. Theft and breaking into cars eventually escalated to breaking into a gas station. Hanging around with a group of friends, they would drink, use marinara, and shoot guns. This behavior quickly turned down a dangerous path ending in tragedy. As a 17-year-old, Jason was facing murder charges for 5-20 years. While incarcerated, Jason became involved in groups that were brought into the prison to help with self-development. He started learning more about addiction, recovery, and ultimately what would be his one-way ticket out of prison. He started learning there was a different way to live his life, and his belief that he was “destined to be a knucklehead,” did not need to be his reality or future. Now, he shares all that he has learned with others in hopes he can help lead others to a life of freedom, and when times get tough, you do not need to face it alone. Jason’s story is one of redemption, hope, and the power of second chances. We wish you nothing but the best, Jason! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Let Me Rewind: Jamie & Mariah Lynam 1:02:32

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Born and raised in California, Jamie said she had a good childhood from what she can remember. At just a few years old, her parents divorced which led to Jamie being raised alone by her mother. From a young age, Jamie identifies her addiction to substances really started with cigarettes following a very traumatic event. While cigarettes and alcohol use were very normalized in her home, Jamie recalls both her absent father and subsequent stepfathers struggled with drug addiction. As she describes a childhood plagued with watching her mother go from one abusive relationship to another, it was tumultuous for her to navigate. As a young adult when Jamie started experimenting with cocaine, she said from that moment on she was “chasing the drug.” From there, she went to college, found herself entering the workforce as a functioning addict, leaving one unhealthy relationship and entering a new one while her life was becoming unmanageable. For the first time in years, Jamie was able to regain her sobriety when she found out she was pregnant with her daughter, Mariah. For a few years, Jamie remained sober as she parented with the help of her mother. Jamie describes her journey through addiction and ultimately nearly a decade in federal prison. Her incredible daughter, Mariah, joined the podcast episode unsure of how much, or if she would join the discussion. To witness Mariah and Jamie’s bond, rewinding back to the past to learn how they got here today, is nothing short of inspiring. Jamie and Mariah, we wish you the very best! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Born Behind Barr(s): Eliza, Reaching Out From Within 1:08:45

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Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Eliza Barr describes her childhood as quite typical for the most part. Her parents were very protective of their large family of seven children. Reflecting on this, Eliza believes this was likely due to her parents experiencing “intense childhoods” they wanted to shield their children from. At the time of her birth, Eliza’s mother was incarcerated. With one ankle shackled to the hospital bed, Eliza shares what her mother shares with her each year on her birthday from those memories of Eliza’s delivery. At the young age of just fourteen, Eliza’s father spent decades in a cycle of incarceration. Her sophomore year in high school, her father broke this cycle with his final period of incarceration. Being a “daddy’s girl,” she describes it was very emotional for her during his absences; however, he worked very hard to be present for his children even when he could not physically be there. Eliza and her siblings developed a deep sense of empathy and caring for the “whole person” from their parents’ experiences. She shares the incredible journey of her parents and their dedication to helping others. Fueled by the passion she observed as her parents poured themselves into their community, Eliza grew up knowing she wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. She serves as the Executive Director for Reaching Out From Within, which is a national leader for rehabilitation programs for incarcerated men and women. She focuses on empowerment, education, gainful employment, and equipping people with the tools they need to be successful. Eliza, you are incredible, and we are so grateful for you sharing your tremendous story with us! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Hope, Hair, & Healing: Heather DiDomenico Graves 1:06:23

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This episode is incredibly special because Heather is sharing her journey for the first time on a public platform. Heather will tell you, “Hope is everything,” and we could not agree more. Born raised in South Central California, Heather DiDomenico Graves recalls what impacted her childhood most was childhood obesity. Reflecting, she describes how living in an area with such high beauty standards in Southern California, she struggled with lack of self-love and self-worth. With very strict parents who worked a lot, especially with her father in the military, she spent much of her time with her older siblings. In school, Heather was bullied for her weight which led her to a group where she found acceptance. Unfortunately, what she found was a “false sense of solidarity” as she began to experiment with substances at the age of twelve. From there, her story takes many curves ultimately leading her to where she is today. As a licensed cosmetologist for the past twenty years, she bought her first commercial property seven years ago. Heather’s first salon opened almost six years ago, Onyx Salon and Wellness Spa. She now has a boutique and café by Onyx as well as second salon location that has been open for nearly two years. It takes tremendous courage to tell your story; in doing so, this shows others there is a brighter tomorrow that can impact so many people. Heather, thank you for trusting us with your story, and we wish you nothing but the best! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Our Honor, Your Honor: Judge Bough, U.S. District Court 1:00:48

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Judge Stephen Bough joins us for a special episode providing perspective from his side of the courtroom. Judge Bough was nominated by President Obama in 2014 to serve as a United States District Judge of the United States Court for the Western District of Missouri. In more recent years, Judge Bough presided over Reentry Court for the Western District of Missouri. Like drug court and other specialty courts, this model serves as an intervention for individuals releasing from prison who are struggling throughout the reentry process. Reentry Court is a collaborative approach to assist in successfully completing the conditions of supervision and providing an alternative opportunity to avoid incarceration. On that note, we discuss the “weight” that comes with sentencing, and Judge Bough does not take his position of authority lightly. As he looks out in the courtroom during a trial and sees family members of the defendant, Judge Bough shares some staggering statistics children with an incarcerated parent face. As we discuss the power of second chances, sentencing reform, and much more, Judge Bough’s passion, compassion, and wisdom radiates throughout his episode. Judge Bough, we are convinced you are the right person for the bench! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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All Gas, No Breaks: Dustin Moore, Artists Helping the Homeless 1:22:48

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Dustin Moore grew up in an idyllic setting in San Diego, California, where he surfed and lived the “country club” lifestyle. He claims his childhood was one of privilege and care, and he gravitated towards any sport he could be involved with. Starting college, that is when his life started to turn course; regarding addiction, Dustin remarks this is something you just “have in you” or you do not. He quickly felt a new, strong gravitational pull towards substances he had always stayed away from. Dustin describes when he identified as an athlete, his life was structured. When he went to college and the structure and his connections went away, he filled those voids and time with drugs, alcohol, and other people focused on “partying.” From there, his life began to spiral out of control with his addiction and a life of crime. Dustin describes his fatal flaw was not understanding the depth of his addiction, and ultimately what it would take to work his way out of. Finally, after breaking through the cycle of addiction, this is where Dustin’s life truly takes off when he learned there is much more to recovery than just abstaining from substances. In finding his purpose, he has been able to build bridges and close gaps in recovery and reentry through Artists Helping the Homeless. Dustin, we admire your passion and dedication to helping others! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Can You Hear Me Now?: MG and K. Shook 51:52

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Sheesh! What a wild ride! This past year has “kinda” been one for the books. As MG and K. Shook reflect on previous episodes, guests, new program initiatives, and just downright nonsense, this episode is a lot of fun. With thirty episodes published and going strong, Reentry Reframed continues to be a force to be reckoned with. Second chances are a beautiful thing when a person changes their course, puts in the work, and the community rallies behind them. We are here to celebrate and applaud the individuals who are standing up and giving back to others demonstrating there is a way out, and everyone is deserving of happiness. Reentry Reframed has a ton in store for the next year, so stay tuned and please join us for the ride! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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My Family, You’re Family: LaShanda Daniels, Mirror Inc 52:14

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As the first face welcoming those seeking sobriety walking through the doors of Topeka Residential Treatment, LaShanda Daniels says, “When you’re here, you’re family.” Emulating the ‘open arms’ approach of Mirror’s beloved director who passed away in 2020, Richard Gilchrist, LaShanda explains how she carries on his legacy every single day. LaShanda is always going the extra mile to help others, and she is the connecting point for lifesaving treatment for countless individuals. Before starting her career with Mirror, she explains how she was part of an extremely close-knit family. As a family, they have been devastated by violence, addiction, and incarceration over the years. LaShanda describes how she loved and supported her brothers during their absence from incarceration and ultimately the impact this had on their family. For her legacy, she wants to be known for always helping others. On behalf of your Mirror Family, LaShanda, thank you and we love you! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Fathering Like a Voss: Nathan, Parent Engagement Coordinator, KCSL 55:41

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From a young age, Nathan Voss recalls struggling in school. Eventually, he was prescribed medication to help him focus while learning. It did not take long for Nathan to realize his medication was a hot commodity he could trade for other medication, such as opiates, to feed his addiction. While his passion was in music, he spiraled deeper in his addiction as a musician in a band where the fast lifestyle was not conducive to maintaining sobriety. For years, his life went on in a pattern bouncing between active addiction and substance use disorder treatment. Nathan was not the father he wanted to be for his daughter, and this eventually contributed to his first child in state custody. After getting out of prison, he was determined to regain and maintain his sobriety. In 2021, with a new 2-year-old daughter, he opened the first father/child Oxford House in Topeka, Abba House. In 2022, he opened his 2nd Oxford House for fathers with children. Today, his days are filled with joy from both daughters in his life! He parents his youngest daughter in the Oxford House they both call home. Recently, Nathan was hired as a Parent Engagement Coordinator for Kansas Children's Service League. We wish you and your girls nothing but the best. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Faith in Your Future: Frederick Morrisette, Working Men of Christ 1:06:57

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As a youth, Fred spent a great deal of time moving around due to being the youngest child in a military family. Following the separation of his parents, Fred and his mother settled in El Paso, Texas where his home life would feel anything but safe. As his mother's addiction spiraled out of control, Fred sought refuge in the streets. Having a strong sense of responsibility to keep his mother safe, even as a teenager, he felt a strong pull back to her. In an effort to regain her sobriety, the family moved to Kansas where they had extended family. By then, Fred had changed his people and places, not the things. He was struggling with his addiction and quickly became involved in the justice system by the age of 21-years-old. For 15/20 years, Fred describes what it was like as he "prisoned" through life. In segregation, a key in the form of a pamphlet made its way into his hands for Working Men of Christ Ministries. From there, you will need to hear for yourself how Fred has transformed his life through his faith and service to others. Now, as the Internal Operation Director for Working Men of Christ Ministry, Fred is back in the prison system throughout Kansas mentoring and providing a way out to others. As he leaves his past in the rearview with his incredible outlook, we cannot wait to see what his future holds! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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The Calmed Chameleon: Olivia Penman 55:47

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Olivia Penman, newly Mrs. Olivia Herrman is someone you can find just about anywhere you look in the recovery community celebrating and supporting others. Olivia exudes kindness and love everywhere she goes. When asked what she was like as a youth, Oliva reflected she was not quite sure who she was because it would really depend on who she was around; she was a chameleon of sorts. As she worked to find her own identity, one thing she was certain of early on was she did not want to be an addict. She watched her older brother struggle with addiction, and she was determined to go down a different path. No one dreams of a life filled with turmoil for themselves, and yet, as we discussed breaking down the stigmas associated with substance use disorder, Olivia's life eventually went down a path she never intended to be on. Now, Olivia sponsors other women as they find their way back to who they want to be. As she reinforces in her interview, "You did those things, but it is not who you are." We could not agree more, Olivia, and we wish you and your family a blessed life! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Disrupt and Dismantle: Seth Dewey, Health Educator of Reno County 54:37

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This incredible episode features Seth Dewey, a man who is working hard to ‘disrupt and dismantle’ the systems surrounding Substance Use Disorder to better serve individuals. Prior to being the Health Educator for Reno County, Seth remarks he qualified for his current position by turning his record into his resume. With his perspective, passion, and understanding of the world of recovery, there is no one better suited for this position. Coming from an incredibly strict and restricted background raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, his childhood was shattered when the establishment did anything but protect him. Seeking a way to cope with his pain, Seth’s life spiraled down a road of addiction and incarceration. Now, he seeks to improve accessibility, break the stigmas surrounding addiction and recovery, and ultimately turn things around in the very best way possible. Seth, you have 100% of our votes, too! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Flip the Scrip(t): Adam Cobuluis and Nick Casarona 1:00:27

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In this episode, Adam Cobuluis and Nick Casarona ‘flip the script’ on Shook and MG. Earlier this summer, Nick and Adam reached out with a request to do a podcast “takeover” to get to know the ladies of Reentry Reframed better. Well, they quickly found out Melissa wears her heart on her sleeve- it did not take long to get the tears flowing. Instead of making Kristen edit out all parts of vulnerability, the realization hit this is exactly what we ask of our guests, and they have been courageous enough to share their lives with us in over two dozen recorded episodes. Pulling together passion and purpose, the two ladies pour out their hearts. Kristen shares what drives her to do such work and her vision for community collaboration. Her goal is to continue to empower others to use their voice and take positive action- listen to the very end for a surprise that will leave you 'shook.' Words fail to express our gratitude for the continued support. We love our community so much! Thank you, thank you, thank you, and stay tuned! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Hero to Someone: Rodney Harmon, Black MentoUrs 55:31

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With more than 30 years of experience as a U.S. Department of Justice Federal Law Enforcement Officer, 26 of the 30 years behind federal prison walls, Rodney Harmon shares his incredible perspective on this episode. As a Corrections Officer, Rodney would remind the men, “You are a hero to someone.” During thousands of discussions with men who were incarcerated, Rodney always explored ways to inspire and instill hope. Extending beyond his career, Rodney has spent decades volunteering his time for local organizations within communities in which he has lived and worked. Rodney is also a husband of 34 years, father of 3, and grandfather of 7. In 2018, he created his podcast, Black MentoUrs, an “affirmation of self-image.” The podcast is an empowering content platform where he A sks, L istens, L earns and IN vests (ALL IN) in the knowledge and truths of black males from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Rodney advocates for positive images and narratives of black males in all forms of media. In this episode on Reentry Reframed, Rodney’s passion and dedication to helping others, especially our youth, is astounding! We are so honored to have you as our guest, Rodney! https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rodney-harmon Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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The Mother at the Well: Ashley and Sean Grippando 57:38

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