In Episode #44, I step behind the camera and take full ownership of the entire production—from the cameras and audio to the set, topic, promotion, and distribution.Is it perfect? Nope. Am I like a professional production crew? Not yet. But that’s the point: DO IT ANYWAY!!!I reflect on my summer street outreach work with Hood 2 Hood, my journey into Community Violence Intervention (CVI) and reentry work, and some of the unique struggles that come with being a formerly incarcerated person building a platform and podcast from the ground up.I also get into the music—comparing and contrasting the new Skilla Baby and Pooh Shiesty albums and what they bring to the conversation.This episode is about more than podcasting. It’s about starting before you’re ready, learning as you go, embracing the imperfections, and continuing to move forward.You may not have it all figured out. You may not be a pro yet.DO IT ANYWAY...

In this episode of 17 Winters Podcast, it’s just me—no guest, no script, just a camera and an honest conversation.I share pieces of my origin story, reflect on my personal reentry journey, and wrestle with what it means to be a formerly incarcerated person stepping into the role of “podcaster” while gaining traction and finding my voice.At times, I’m vulnerable. At others, I’m reflective. And throughout, I explore the importance of formerly incarcerated leadership and the responsibility that comes with telling our own stories.This is one of many conversations to come. I’m practicing, learning, and figuring it out in real time—because practice makes perfect.So come on the journey with me. #FreeTheReal

In this episode of 17 Winters Podcast, I sat down with longtime friend and fellow formerly incarcerated leader Nate Johnson, Co-Founder of Next Chapters Solutions.Meeting more than 20 years ago at MTU, we reflect on our journeys from incarceration and transformation to becoming leaders in Michigan’s reentry movement. They discuss Nate’s work with Fresh Coast Alliance, Reentry United, and Next Chapters Solutions, the need for stronger statewide collaboration, and why formerly incarcerated people must be trusted to lead the work of reentry.A powerful conversation about second chances, coming home, and helping others write their next chapter.