Prison to Promise

Toby Davis: You Won’t Break my Soul Ep. 91

When Toby was 19, he and his best friend were unjustly accused and found guilty of second-degree murder in 1995. The conviction was primarily built upon false and conflicting testimonies from two childhood acquaintances, who have since come forward in affidavits, admitting to being coerced and manipulated by detectives into falsely incriminating their friends. With newly unearthed evidence, Toby hopes for complete exoneration and rightful compensation for this grave injustice.Toby can be reached @:Toby R. Davis #234179Thumb Correctional Facility3225 John Conley DriveLapeer, Michigan 48446

From Life without Parole to Saving Souls: Ronald Olivier’s Journey Ep. 90

RONALD OLIVIER served twenty-seven summers in the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary known as Angola. He was released in 2018 and became a client of the Louisiana Parole Project. In 2020, less than two years after leaving Angola, Ronald was hired as the director of chaplaincy at the Mississippi State Penitentiary. In 2023, Ronald returned to the Louisiana Parole Project as a client advocate, using his experience to guide other formerly incarcerated people toward successful careers and lives. He lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with his wife and son.

Navigating Justice: A Conversation with John Teakell Ep. 89

John Teakell brings over 20 years of courtroom experience, specializing in criminal law and securities. His expertise spans federal and state crimes and the intricacies of both federal and state court systems. With a track record of handling numerous cases, from misdemeanors to federal death penalty cases, Mr. Teakell is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail. This quality is crucial in assessing case facts and formulating effective defense strategies.

Embracing Growth: A Journey with Brother Anthony Michael Jefferson Ep. 88

What does it truly entail to "Level Up"? Are you actively advancing or merely stagnant, maintaining the status quo? In this captivating episode of the Prison to Promise podcast, we're honored to have a profound conversation with the esteemed Brother Anthony Michael Jefferson, affectionately known as A.J. A.J. passionately delves into his journey since leaving incarceration, emphasizing his relentless pursuit of growth and advancement in every facet of his existence, aptly encapsulated by his commitment to "level up."

Jeffrey Rousey: Redefining Redemption and Second Chances Ep. 87

Jeffrey Rousey's journey is a testament to the transformative power of redemption and resilience. From a tumultuous past marked by incarceration to becoming a beacon of hope and opportunity for others, Jeffrey's story is one of remarkable strength and determination.After spending 27 years and nine months behind bars for a crime committed in the throes of addiction and desperation, Jeffrey emerged from the confines of prison with a newfound sense of purpose. Determined to turn his life around, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery and redemption, determined to impact the world positively.Sentenced to 25 years to life and thrust into the harsh reality of Folsom prison during a tumultuous era, Jeffrey faced the stark realization that he could no longer live recklessly without consequences. Leveraging the education system available, Jeffrey pursued higher learning, earning two degrees and finding solace in activities like boxing and powerlifting for survival.Upon his unexpected release, Jeffrey sought to carve out a new path for himself rooted in community and purpose. Inspired by the camaraderie of coffee culture, he set his sights on creating a business centered around the finest organic, fair-trade beans, blending them to perfection to create a premium product. By utilizing corporate gifting, Jeffrey's personalized gift bottles gained rapid popularity, becoming highly valued expressions of gratitude within the corporate sphere.But Jeffrey's journey extends beyond entrepreneurship. As the founder of 2nd Chance Opportunities for Felons, he is committed to providing pathways to redemption and success for those reentering society after incarceration. Through mentorship, advocacy, and support, Jeffrey strives to break down barriers and create opportunities for individuals seeking to rebuild their lives.Jeffrey Rousey's story is a powerful reminder that redemption is always within reach, no matter how bleak the circumstances. Through his unwavering resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to giving back, Jeffrey is not just rewriting his own story—he's rewriting the narrative of second chances for countless others.

Meet Corey Frazier: A Beacon of Personal Transformation and Advocacy Ep. 86

Corey Frazier, a native of Flint, Michigan, has walked a remarkable path of personal growth and redemption. From his early years entangled in the streets to his profound transformation into an advocate for change, Corey's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of second chances.Raised amidst the challenges of Flint, Corey found himself drawn into the allure of street life at a young age. Engulfed in a world of gang activity and crime, he navigated a dangerous path that led to involvement in illicit activities, including drug dealing and gang affiliations. However, his life took a drastic turn when, in March of 1996, at just 18 years old, Corey was sentenced to three consecutive life without parole sentences—a stark wake-up call that would alter the course of his existence.After spending over 17 years behind bars, Corey embarked on a profound journey of self-reflection and growth. Fueled by an unwavering ambition to transcend his circumstances, he dedicated himself to personal transformation and education, determined to break free from the chains of his past.On October 2, 2012, Corey emerged from the confines of the Carson City Correctional Facility, a free man armed with a newfound sense of purpose and resolve. Settling in Atlanta, Georgia, alongside his wife and family, Corey embarked on a mission to channel his experiences into positive change.As the founder and owner of Middle Passage Media LLC, Corey is deeply committed to preventing young men from following in his footsteps. He advocates for criminal justice reform through his company and works tirelessly to steer individuals away from incarceration. Drawing from his journey, Corey passionately shares insights and wisdom, dropping multiple jewels of wisdom on personal transformation and the importance of staying out of prison.Corey Frazier's story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless potential for redemption. With unwavering determination and a steadfast commitment to change, he inspires others to embrace their transformation journeys and forge a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

Gangs to Grace: Yusef Wiley’s Journey of Redemption Ep. 85

Andre Lovell Wiley, known as Yusef Wiley, is the founder and CEO of Timelist Group, Inc. By age 13, he started associating with gang members and getting into trouble around the neighborhood. After serving a juvenile sentence, Mr. Wiley continued his gang involvement with other known gang members, earning a reputation as a gang banger in the areas of South-Central LA, which eventually landed him in the Correctional system in the state of California at the age of 21. After being placed in solitary confinement, Mr. Wiley began to discover his spirituality and later converted to Islam. It was his spiritual faith that took him away from the destructive lifestyle of the gangs to a more purposeful and honorable way of living. He served close to 22 years before he was released on May 24, 2012, at 43.  Mr. Wiley has now been working for many years to end gang and youth violence through his development and writing intervention and rehabilitation programs.

Antwan Carter: A Voice of Redemption and Advocacy Ep. 84

Antwan Carter's journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and a steadfast commitment to positively impacting the world. Incarcerated at the age of 18 for murder, Antwan faced the daunting reality of spending the rest of his life behind bars after getting sentenced to natural life in prison at 22. For over 15 years and nine months, he endured the harsh conditions of some of Massachusetts' toughest prisons, including MCI Walpole and Shirley Max.Yet, within the confines of his incarceration, Antwan embarked on a transformative journey of introspection and self-reflection. Rather than allowing the conditions of his confinement to define him, he chose to delve deep within himself, analyzing his experiences and searching for meaning. This journey led him to a profound realization: despite the darkness of his circumstances, he possessed the power to shape his narrative and make a positive impact.Driven by this newfound passion, Antwan committed to educating himself and using his life experiences as a catalyst for change. He recognized the importance of prison reform and became deeply invested in advocating for a system that promotes rehabilitation rather than perpetuating cycles of despair. Through his lived experiences, Antwan sheds light on the realities of prison life, highlighting the struggles incarcerated individuals face as they grapple with the challenges of finding meaning and purpose amidst adversity.Antwan is determined to give back to society meaningfully as a free man. He believes in the power of collaboration and invites anyone who shares his vision of creating a better world to join him in his mission. Whether through advocacy, education, or community outreach, Antwan is committed to making a difference and ensuring that every voice is heard.Antwan Carter's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of redemption. Through his unwavering dedication to prison reform and commitment to making a positive impact, he serves as a beacon of hope for change and a source of inspiration for all.

Hassan Jamaal Bacote’s Fight for Innocence and Empowerment Ep. 83

Hassan Jamaal Bacote has been held in custody since February 2007, marking 17 years of incarceration. Currently on Death Row at Central Prison in North Carolina, he was convicted in 2009 of first-degree murder and other charges. Despite evidence suggesting his innocence, Hassan vehemently maintains that he was wrongfully convicted. This episode delves into Hassan's ongoing struggle to establish his innocence, sheds light on the harsh conditions of solitary confinement, and explores his ideas to empower the wider community.

Nathaniel Evans: Dismantling Opressive Systems Ep. 82

Nathaniel's story is one of turning adversity into triumph. Having faced the challenges of the criminal justice system, he emerged from the depths of incarceration with a newfound purpose. Throughout his journey, Nathaniel has not only rebuilt his life but has become a beacon of hope for others striving to break free from the cycle of adversity.