Prison to Promise

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.

Introduction to Death Row Gambit (1 of 4) Ep. 78

Rodney Taylor recorded this four-part podcast series on a tablet inside a cell on death row in the North Carolina Prison system.The contact info for Death Row Gambit is now crackingatoms@gmail.comClick here for more Death Row Gambit podcasts.

DEATH ROW GAMBIT: Family Ties (4 of 4) Ep. 81

Rodney Taylor engages in a conversation with Paul Brown, also known as Mr. Blue, discussing the importance of cultivating family connections for individuals on death row and the challenges in sustaining those ties.The contact info for Death Row Gambit is now crackingatoms@gmail.comClick ⁠here⁠ for more Death Row Gambit podcasts.

DEATH ROW GAMBIT: Barely Legal: Sentenced to Death Before the Age of 21 (2 of 4) Ep. 79

In a candid exchange, Rodney Taylor engages in conversation with a 35-year-old man condemned to Death Row in the North Carolina prison system since the age of 21. Together, they explore questions from the public in an unfiltered and raw exploration of lives, choices, and the profound burden borne by those facing the relentless ticking clock of the ultimate penalty. The discussion provides a deep and detailed insight into the complexities surrounding the lives of individuals ensnared in the criminal justice system's most severe consequences.P.S.-The contact info for Death Row Gambit is now crackingatoms@gmail.comClick ⁠here⁠ for more Death Row Gambit podcasts.

DEATH ROW GAMPIT: A Death Notice (3 of 4) Ep. 80

Rodney Taylor talks with Priscilla James Thomas about what it was like to receive notice that the state is prepared to execute them.The contact info for Death Row Gambit is now crackingatoms@gmail.comClick ⁠here⁠ for more Death Row Gambit podcasts.

Welcome to Prison to Promise 2024

We're kicking off 2024 with an unprecedented five-part series that takes you behind the prison walls, beyond the bars, and into the lives of often-forgotten people.
The contact info for Death Row Gambit is now crackingatoms@gmail.com.