Social Work Chooses You: Kendra Howard, Case Manager

Reentry Reframed

#Podcasting Education #Kristen Shook | Mirror, Inc #Justice #Reentry #Prison Reform #Jail #Prison

1:14:43

Artificial intelligence is evolving at an unprecedented pace—what does that mean for the future of technology, venture capital, business, and even our understanding of ourselves? Award-winning journalist and writer Anil Ananthaswamy joins us for our latest episode to discuss his latest book Why Machines Learn: The Elegant Math Behind Modern AI . Anil helps us explore the journey and many breakthroughs that have propelled machine learning from simple perceptrons to the sophisticated algorithms shaping today’s AI revolution, powering GPT and other models. The discussion aims to demystify some of the underlying mathematical concepts that power modern machine learning, to help everyone grasp this technology impacting our lives–even if your last math class was in high school. Anil walks us through the power of scaling laws, the shift from training to inference optimization, and the debate among AI’s pioneers about the road to AGI—should we be concerned, or are we still missing key pieces of the puzzle? The conversation also delves into AI’s philosophical implications—could understanding how machines learn help us better understand ourselves? And what challenges remain before AI systems can truly operate with agency? If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Sign up for our newsletter at techsurgepodcast.com for exclusive insights and updates on upcoming TechSurge Live Summits. Links: Read Why Machines Learn, Anil’s latest book on the math behind AI https://www.amazon.com/Why-Machines-Learn-Elegant-Behind/dp/0593185749 Learn more about Anil Ananthaswamy’s work and writing https://anilananthaswamy.com/ Watch Anil Ananthaswamy’s TED Talk on AI and intelligence https://www.ted.com/speakers/anil_ananthaswamy Discover the MIT Knight Science Journalism Fellowship that shaped Anil’s AI research https://ksj.mit.edu/ Understand the Perceptron, the foundation of neural networks https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perceptron Read about the Perceptron Convergence Theorem and its significance https://www.nature.com/articles/323533a0…

acum 3 ani 43:00

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Social work is one of the most important career paths, especially in the world of reentry. As corrections and reentry services move forward, criminal justice and social work backgrounds have intersected and overlapped to better serve this population. To build rapport with individuals and guide them through one of the most important transitions in life is something Kendra Howard has found to be incredibly rewarding. Drawing inspiration from her mother’s legacy, Howard shares how social work “chose” her.
While Howard’s time in Kansas was a short trip around the sun, her impact was huge! Howard provides insight on the impactful work case managers do, the mindset that goes into social work, and how she was able to leave an imprint on those she served through 'Kendra's Kreative Space.’ We can only imagine the people you will help with your servant heart in your career, Mrs. Howard. We wish you well!

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36 episoade

Social Work Chooses You: Kendra Howard, Case Manager

Reentry Reframed

published acum 3 ani

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36 episoade

#Podcasting Education #Kristen Shook | Mirror, Inc #Justice #Reentry #Prison Reform #Jail #Prison

Toate episoadele

1
Never On The Track: Jason Miles 1:15:37

acum 10 weeks1:15:37

1:15:37

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…

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

acum 14 weeks1:02:32

1:02:32

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…

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

acum 31 weeks1:08:45

1:08:45

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…

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

acum 44 weeks1:06:23

1:06:23

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…

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

acum 50 weeks1:00:48

1:00:48

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…

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

acum 1 year1:22:48

1:22:48

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…

1
Can You Hear Me Now?: MG and K. Shook 51:52

acum 1 year51:52

51:52

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…

1
My Family, You’re Family: LaShanda Daniels, Mirror Inc 52:14

acum 1 year52:14

52:14

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…

1
Fathering Like a Voss: Nathan, Parent Engagement Coordinator, KCSL 55:41

acum 1 year55:41

55:41

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…

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

acum 1 year1:06:57

1:06:57

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…

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The Calmed Chameleon: Olivia Penman 55:47

acum 1 year55:47

55:47

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…

1
Disrupt and Dismantle: Seth Dewey, Health Educator of Reno County 54:37

acum 2 years54:37

54:37

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…

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

acum 2 years1:00:27

1:00:27

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…

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

acum 2 years55:31

55:31

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…

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

acum 2 years57:38

57:38

From using together to losing together, Ashley and Sean share their story on this episode with openness and raw honesty in hopes of reaching others. Ashley describes her struggle and ultimate despair stemming from her substance use while pregnant and as a new mother. Ashley and Sean also share their experience navigating the foster care and court system while regaining their sobriety in an effort to be reunited with their young children. For a mother who was filled with tremendous pain, trauma, and loss, not knowing where to turn, Ashley’s path eventually led her back to church. The first service she attended was The Woman at the Well, and aligned so divinely with her own life, she believed this was no coincidence; she was where she was supposed to be. Ashley and Sean, through it all, love each other for better or worse. Today, their happy ending is one you will need to hear for yourselves. For the Grippando Family, we cannot wait to see the joy your future holds! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Mindin' My Biz: Tre'Jor Hopkins 51:49

acum 2 years51:49

51:49

On this episode, Tre’Jor Hopkins, savvy business owner, shares the ins and outs of starting his own business. His food truck, Flavor Wagon 785, is a treasure in Topeka for those who are looking for a healthy, fresh, delicious meal on the go. What makes Tre’Jor’s food truck even more incredible is the road that led to his now successful venture. Arriving for his podcast interview carrying his 7-month-old daughter in her car seat, the doting father commented, “She goes where I go.” Learning more about Tre’Jor’s history with his own father made her presence there even more beautiful. To celebrate Second Chance Month in April, Tre’Jor, who successfully completed the reentry center in 2018, will head back to dish up some great food and HOPE for current residents. When Tre’Jor redirected his brilliance and ambition, the result is one you will need to try for yourself! While just the start of what I imagine will be an incredibly bright future, we wish you and your family nothing but the best. To learn more about Tre’Jor’s business and where you can ‘catch the flavors’ of Flavor Wagon 785 in Topeka, check out his page: https://www.facebook.com/flavorwagon785/ . Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Back 2 My Boys: Your Dad, Adam Cobuluis 42:15

acum 2 years42:15

42:15

Facing nearly 20 years in prison, Adam received news his two young boys would be in state custody under the supervision of KVC. Instead of losing hope, Adam knew he would one day be reunited with his boys. With steadfast determination, Adam began the process of reunification from foster care with his children after the case was dismissed. Fresh out of jail, Adam credits the Oxford House, the foster mother of his children, his employment, and local resource networks for supporting him along the way. In this episode, Adam describes the process of navigating the foster care system all while trying to hit the ground running with his own reentry journey. When asked what makes a “good dad,” Adam pulls much of how he parents based on the what he missed during his own childhood, and instead, “putting his children first.” Recently, Adam was our guest speaker at the Mirror Work for Success graduation for class #55. Reflecting on his own time going through the Work for Success program, the graduating class listened with the utmost respect for this man who faced insurmountable odds to get back to his boys. Adam’s story is one of determination, love, and the power of second chances. We wish you and your boys all the happiness this world has to offer! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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From the Pitt of Despair: Marcus, Oxford House World Council 51:28

acum 2 years51:28

51:28

From a quite normal childhood, being involved in numerous school activities and doing well in the classroom, Marcus Pitts' life slowly faded into one of despair, and a life he despised. He created a persona that drew others in, finding himself to be a “people pleaser.” Continuing into the lifestyle of popular activities, such as becoming a member of a fraternity and partying, his drinking problem eventually turned into one giant pit of addiction he had to dig himself out of. Facing 27.5 years in prison, Pitts turned his life around after being introduced to Oxford House and the grace of God. Today, Marcus is a steward to his community and has assisted in opening, restructuring, and relocating numerous sober living houses. Speaking to his leadership and investment in the Oxford Community, he has a spot on the Oxford House World Council. Best wishes to you, world traveler! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Home(less) is Where the Heart is: Misty Bosch-Hastings, Topeka Rescue Mission 46:48

acum 2 years46:48

46:48

Growing up in small-town Kansas, Misty endured a traumatic childhood. Being surrounded by the drug-induced chaos of her parents, she struggled to feel supported. With the effects of her childhood lingering into adulthood, she found herself repeating the cycle of domestic violence and addiction which spiraled even further out of control following the loss of her father. One day, she came to a realization she wanted to break the generational cycle of trauma. Her past life was burnt to the ground following a house fire where she lost everything. Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, she rebuilt her life from the ground up by the grace of God, a supportive community, and an empowering mentor. Misty honors her father in the work she does today; she pours her heart out with her sleeves rolled up serving and housing the homeless population. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Silver Spoon to the Slammer: John Cantrell 1:14:08

acum 2 years1:14:08

1:14:08

Growing up, John Cantrell’s life was filled with limitless opportunities for the future. As a teenager, Cantrell quickly learned he was never ready for the party to stop like it did for others. This fast-paced lifestyle caught up with him in college as he constantly searched for ways to fill a void within himself. By the age of 22, Cantrell was facing a 60-month sentence in federal prison for distribution. Instead of letting these mistakes define his life, Cantrell claims prison saved his life. Cantrell attributes his transformation to giving his life completely over to God. Whereas he constantly searched for more when he had it all, Cantrell counts himself today more blessed than ever before. With a loving wife and a son who is a walking miracle, Cantrell’s story is filled with hope and inspiration he shares with others. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Lost Wolfe: Jennifer's Tale 1:07:08

acum 2 years1:07:08

1:07:08

Jennifer Wolfe started her life off living the “American Dream.” Following a traumatic event, her reality was completely altered at the age of 7. Unable to process the drastic change in a healthy way, Jennifer began to act out as a child. Becoming enveloped in a lifestyle fueled with rage, she spent her adolescent years in juvenile detention. At the age of 21, Jennifer was released and began her adult journey; she secured a successful union job, a husband, and children. On the outside, her life looked to be picture perfect; however, years of unresolved trauma lingered on… After another traumatic experience, her path spiraled into one of addiction, life on the streets, and ultimately feeling completely lost. Following multiple attempts to seek help, the Lost Wolfe finally had the chance to rewrite her Tale. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Forgive Me, Love Mom: Your Daughter, Kasey Kern 49:51

acum 2 years49:51

49:51

Born in a small town in Illinois to teenage parents, Kasey Kern describes her life as tumultuous and filled with chaos. Kasey’s outlook and attitude is nothing short of beautiful grace as the love she has for her family radiates throughout her story. She describes how generational trauma altered not just her life but reflects on her family tree of decades of untreated mental health concerns, substance use disorder, and abuse. While her mother was in and out of treatment and incarceration, mother and daughter remained connected through their letters and poems back and forth to one another. As Kasey reads beloved poems and letters, her mother’s signature on each one is: Forgive me, mom. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Bled in, Blessed Out: Luis Leyva 37:17

acum 3 years37:17

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Born in Los Angeles, Luis Leyva’s life had a rocky start. At the age of 15, Luis was initiated into his neighborhood gang following a traumatic experience that stewed up a hatred for the opposing neighborhoods. Through this lifestyle, he became involved in the juvenile justice system which continued throughout his adult life. Ultimately, becoming a father and finding love led him towards his story of redemption. Luis found his passion for tattooing while incarcerated in prison and has been able to create a career in his “happy place.” As a tattoo artist, he feels he can help others by being there for them and giving words of encouragement. Luis looks forward to impacting others as opportunities arise to make a difference in young lives who may be facing a similar road as he once did. One of Luis’ most prominent and impactful memories is a speaker who attended his juvenile detention stay, so giving back to youth who are justice-involved is something he feels passionate about. We know you will continue to be a source of inspiration, Luis! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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How YOU doin’?: Trish from Yonkers 37:20

acum 3 years37:20

37:20

Pointing out one memento from a friend, she said, “He calls me CAPY: Catholic Alcoholic Patricia from Yonkers.” As Trish walked me around her apartment, her excitement was palpable! As she explained, this is the first time she has lived on her own this century. At nearly 70-years-old, Trish’s life has been full of twists and turns, highs and lows, to be where she is at today. Deep in her addiction, many of her picture albums were lost in the early 2000s. With the pictures she has been able to collect in the past decade, it is clear Trish’s heart belongs to the ocean and to her family. There are shells and ocean treasures in every nook and cranny in her home she has worked incredibly hard for. With more than a decade of sobriety, Trish is now able to relish in the moment from the simple joys in life. We wish you nothing but the best, Trish! Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Here’s to a Dozen More: MG & K2 Thank you! 23:07

acum 3 years23:07

23:07

As we reflect on our 12th episode posting, we are so incredibly grateful for your support! As we near 1,000 downloads, we wanted to jump on and share some updates with you all! This episode has some behind the scenes and the “why” behind what we do. In this episode, there is a hidden gem contained within you will need to hear for yourself on how we plan to celebrate. We have some great ideas and goals for the next dozen episodes, so please stay tuned! Our dream is to break the stigma surrounding reentry for justice-involved individuals reentering our community. After all, if we break the cycles of incarceration, we all succeed. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Pure Gold(smith): Assistant Deputy Chief U.S. Probation Officer 38:41

acum 3 years38:41

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Melissa Goldsmith has 26 years of experience working in the criminal justice field, with 23 being with U.S. Probation in the District of Kansas. She is the Assistant Deputy Chief U.S. Probation Officer and oversees the program initiatives. Recognizing the importance of reentry services, she assisted in developing the Pretrial Orientation Program, Bureau of Prisons Program, and the Moral Reconation Therapy Program in the District of Kansas. Known for her enthusiasm, kindness, and passion for helping others, Melissa’s episode is pure gold. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

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Suit & Tie, All a Lie: The Real Nick Casarona 51:13

acum 3 years51:13

51:13

Nick Casarona, a talented athlete with a bright future ahead, graduated high school with his “ticket out” of Topeka. After accepting a scholarship in Florida to compete on a diving team, Nick eagerly awaited his opportunity to shine and make others proud. Unfortunately, a devastating twist of fate ended his dreams of being a collegiate athlete. From there, Nick pivoted in an entirely different direction deciding he would go to school where he obtained a masters degree in Banking and Finance from U of Colorado. Because he is incredibly intelligent and driven, he excelled in business. Throughout his illustrious career, Nick describes an inner turmoil as he struggled daily with addiction. While his road went further off course as he ventured into some of his darkest days, Nick dreamed of a better life. A life where he could be accepted for him, free of addiction- he longed to be a husband and father. This is a story of devastation and addiction; however, to hear where Nick is today will bring tears to your eyes. When he started seeing the light at the end of the tunnel as hope, not a train coming at him, he started over with a life full of redemption by helping others. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

1
Fitting In, Standing Out: My Transpective, Shawn 39:03

acum 3 years39:03

39:03

Social butterfly, Shawn, enjoyed the glamorized nightlife scene until it led to a path of addiction. Ultimately, Shawn was sentenced to federal prison for two separate convictions totaling the better part of a decade. Shawn, a transgender individual who identifies as a woman, shares her journey through the justice system. In this episode, she breaks down the levels of ‘status’ within jails, low and medium security penitentiaries, while explaining how being a “she” in a “he” prison brought feelings of loneliness and depression. Finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, Shawn gained hope as she began the process of reentry. With the acceptance, support, and encouragement of a residential reentry center, a fresh outlook on life was the catalyst to her current success story. Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

1
Unbreak My Road: I Was Her, Jodi Whitt 31:33

acum 3 years31:33

31:33

Starting at the tender age of 13, Jodi’s life tumbled down a broken road as her 20-year addiction to methamphetamine began. Learning the pain she was trying to numb by using drugs was actually amplifying her trauma, Jodi offers tremendous wisdom and guidance for others facing addiction. She describes wanting to be there for her children, and for other women, as being the driving force behind her years of sobriety. She takes ownership of her past as she candidly shares, “You cannot keep doing bad things to people and expect to be living a fulfilled life.” Now, Jodi radiates joy as she embraces her passion for helping other women overcome addiction, understand their worth, and share resources available in the community. Who better to reach women along their own broken road than someone who has traveled the same path? After all, she sat where they are as she says, “I was her.” Send us a text…

Reentry Reframed

1
From the Inside Out: Kori Thiessen, Reentry Affairs Coordinator 51:58

acum 3 years51:58