Prison to Promise

Marcus Bullock: Reentry and Desistance Ep. 95

I'm excited to share a powerful conversation I had in April 2024 with the inspiring Marcus Bullock. Together, we explored what it takes to create a successful reentry experience for individuals returning to their communities after incarceration. Marcus and I also discussed actionable strategies for supporting the formerly incarcerated on their journey toward criminal desistance and long-term success.

Jermaine Archer: I was who I was Before I Got Here Ep. 94

Today, we have an exceptional guest, Jermaine Archer. Having transformed from a survivor of the system to an agent of change, Jermaine used his experience as a directly impacted person to advocate for criminal justice reform. As a paralegal for the Legal Aid Society, he passionately represented clients. Seeking to broaden his impact, he expanded his professional work to include community outreach, advocacy, and organizing, aiming to create coalitions and empower his community. Let's dive into his inspiring journey.

Empowering Through Education: A Journey with Dr. Robert Alexander Ep. 93

Robert Alexander is the founder of Hood to Higher Education. He has been an educator for over 15 years, providing his services as a Counselor, Teacher, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach, and Educational Consultant. In addition to being a powerful educator, Robert is also an Author.Robert is passionate about helping historically underrepresented students succeed in college and mentoring new counselors and instructors. He is well-versed in curriculum development and uses his expertise to train instructors in instructional skills and culturally responsive pedagogies.Robert is a Bay Area native who knows the importance of higher education and how it helped transform his life. He is passionate about doing the same for young students.Robert’s primary mission is to empower Black and Latino youth by enhancing their critical literacy and critical thinking skills and nurturing a strong sense of academic engagement. This urgent goal drives his every endeavor.Robert is available for book signings, workshops, and professional development.

From Chaos to Compassion: A Journey with Noah Asher Ep. 92

Noah Asher is the author of CHAOS: Overcoming the Overwhelming, owner of The Chaos Movement, and communicator. Noah Asher and his team coach and consult for authors to help them spread their message. All proceeds of Noah's book are used to provide copies inside prison libraries and rehab centers across America. For more information on Noah and all he is doing, check out www.TheNoahAsher.com 

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.