Count Time Now!

Fred Ward hosts Eric Brakken on Count Time Now to shift from discussing barriers to sharing solutions in the re-entry community, focusing on affordable, energy-efficient housing with dignity. Brakken, a 30-year organizer from Florida, describes work with the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition and Desmond Meade, including the 2018 voting rights expansion restoring rights to 1.4 million returning...

Join Fred Ward in this compelling episode of 'Count Time' as we step into 2026 with a powerful New Year's discussion. Fred hosts his esteemed colleague Tancred Jones, who brings a treasure trove of history and insight into the challenges faced by individuals with felony records. Tan shares his journey from the medical field to the restaurant industry, shedding light on the harsh realities of 'coll...

Fred Ward hosts another insightful episode of the Count Time Now podcast, reflecting on the impactful year of 2025. Fred highlights major milestones like the successful Count Time convening attended by over 500 people, legislation passed for women's hygiene products in prisons, and initiatives focused on reducing violence and improving housing in Ohio communities. He celebrates the stories of dire...

In today’s episode of 'Count Time Now, host Fred Ward sits down with Dante Ferguson, also known as Iceberg Ferg, to discuss his remarkable transformation from a gang leader to a youth violence intervention advocate. They delve into their initial meeting, Dante's challenging past and gang affiliations, and the profound personal growth he has undergone over the years. Dante shares his harrowing expe...

In this compelling episode of 'Count Time,' join us as we dive deep with 2 Guests into powerful discussions on overcoming past mistakes, societal reintegration, and breaking free from the chains of adversity. From personal stories of hardship to dissecting the impact of socio-economic systems on crime and poverty, we uncover the complex layers of resilience and transformation. We also explore the...

In this episode of Count Time Now, Fred Ward reconnects with his childhood friend, to navigate through their transformative journeys from their challenging beginnings in Cleveland's tough neighborhoods to their impactful roles today. They delve into their personal histories, discussing the struggles of growing up in difficult environments, their involvement in the streets, and the pivotal moments...

In this inspiring episode of Count Time Now, host Fred Ward sits down with two remarkable young men, Marquez and Brandon (aka 'Streets'), to discuss their transformative journeys. Fresh out of incarceration, both brothers share powerful stories of redemption, community leadership, and the importance of voting and civic engagement. They shed light on building new relationships with local leaders, p...

Join Fred Ward and a group of resilient brothers for a deep, raw, and unfiltered episode of Count Time Now. From encounters with systemic injustices to navigating life after wrongful convictions, these men lay it all out. They dive into the life-changing power of voting, the haunting effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the importance of credible messengers in communities. Experien...

In this riveting episode of Count Time, Fred Ward engages in a profound conversation with his longtime colleague Donovan. The discussion spans their shared experiences of incarceration, the transformative journey post-release, and the unique challenges faced by those with criminal records. They highlight the importance of voting, its strategic value for formerly incarcerated individuals, and debun...

In this episode of Count Time Now, host Fred Ward engages in a compelling discussion with Frank Jackson, the longest-serving mayor in Cleveland's history. The conversation delves into the '3% rule,' the impact of cynical voters, and how to transform skepticism into political action. They explore recent research involving Ohio's ex-felon voters and discuss strategies for creating political spaces t...

Join Fred Ward in this engaging episode as he sits down with Frank Jackson, Cleveland's longest-standing mayor, to discuss power, politics, and community impact. Frank Jackson shares his journey from local advocacy to becoming a central figure in Cleveland's political scene. The conversation delves into the essence of political power, the structures of local government, and the indispensable role...

In this episode of Count Time Now, Fred Ward is joined by Pete VanLeer from Policy Matters and his long-time friend Russell Williams, an outstanding chef and directly impacted individual who continues to face collateral consequences. The discussion dives deep into Russell's disturbing experience of being fired due to a decades-old conviction and highlights the broader systemic injustice faced by i...

In this episode of the Count Time Podcast, Fred Ward sits down with two insightful young women, Shayla and Lanaya, to discuss their views on voting, influence, and the role of young people in politics. Despite their reservations about the current political climate, they explore the impact of music, social media, and societal expectations on their decision not to vote. Fred shares his insights on t...

We’re back with more Count Time Now! Today our Host sits down with Beyond Wynn, a successful entrepreneur with a powerful story of transformation. They explore critical issues like the 'great divide' in Ohio, the impact of past mistakes, and the unseen barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals. Beyond shares his personal journey from the streets to building a legacy with his children, em...

In this powerful discussion, Fred Ward ignites a meaningful conversation about the significance of International Underground Railroad Month, honoring heroes like Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman who escaped slavery in September. Join the Building Freedom Ohio (BFO) team as they share moving experiences from visiting historical sites connected to the Underground Railroad. From walking in the f...

Join host Fred Ward as he presents Count Time, a groundbreaking podcast that sheds light on the experiences of over 2 million people in Ohio impacted by felony convictions. Discover the narrative of overcoming societal barriers, reclaiming self-identity, and constructing a collective power to initiate policy changes. This episode previews intriguing topics such as the 'Duly Convicted' clause, the...