Liz Hadacheck and Eli Steenlage discuss the importance of showing the impact of transformational change with data tracking with Dr. Karen Reece. As Nehemiah's Vice President of Research and Education, Dr. Reece is committed to bringing just and equitable research and learning practices to the process of creating systemic change. Nehemiah is innovating with academic research projects that connect people who have lived experience with the researchers. Hear about all of the various projects and studies that Dr. Reece has been a part of and what Nehemiah is working on now.

Karen Reece holds a Ph.D. in Physiology from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and brings a unique blend of expertise that includes public health, social science, and community leadership. She began her career as a research scientist in academia and biotechnology before transitioning to the nonprofit sector to amplify social impact through research, program evaluation and strategic planning.

Currently, Karen co-leads Nehemiah’s initiatives in criminal legal system reform and community-based programs that focus on racial justice, including educational series and workshops that address racial disparities. Her work with Nehemiah’s reentry program supports advocacy efforts for people affected by incarceration. Karen serves as a bridge between academia and community facilitating research partnerships that illuminate and respect the expertise of people with lived experiences to foster understanding and to design impactful, health-focused studies centered on community priorities.

Outside of work, Karen enjoys the local music scene (particularly Hip-Hop), singing and playing the cello, vegetable gardening, and participating in a wide variety of civic engagement efforts focused on social justice.

Find out more at nehemiah.org

Rebecca Barber, Nehemiah Director of Reentry Housing, Advocacy, and Program Oversight, has a truthful and deep conversation with Tony Hoffman about his life journey of being justice impacted. Their conversation goes into the hard realities of mental health, addiction, incarceration and the hope of reentering life with purpose. Don't miss hearing his amazing story.

On December 13th, 2008, Tony Hoffman was paroled by the California Department of Corrections after serving a two-year sentence for a drug-related robbery. While incarcerated, Tony set four goals: Race BMX professionally, go to the Olympics, start a non-profit called the Freewheel Project, and become a professional mental health and substance abuse speaker. Listen in to hear how these goals turned out. Today Tony is an author, an owner of pH Wellness drug and alcohol treatment facility, and one of the world’s most requested mental health and substance use speakers.

Learn more about Tony Hoffman and his work: tonyhoffmanspeaking.com

Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonymhoffman

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Listen in to this exclusive live podcast announcement event that was held in front a small live audience in early June, 2025. Harry Hawkins and Dr. Alex Gee tell the story of the smooth transition of leadership for Nehemiah that has been in the works for awhile. Both leaders are committed to transformational leadership and discuss how this transition is a natural demonstration of this leadership ethos in action. Hear how Harry Hawkins was developed as a leader through his work at Nehemiah, which has always been a part of Nehemiah's organizational values for over 30 years.

Dr. Alex Gee started Nehemiah and he explains how he is confident that Mr. Hawkins will continue the mission and vision of the community work. Also, hear a few audience questions to help learn more about the transition process.

Learn more at nehemiah.org