A Second Chance: Stories of Young Offenders

In this episode, host Sofia Ng speaks with Kaysean and Donald, two young leaders from Avenues for Justice, New York City’s leading alternative-to-incarceration program. Through mentorship, leadership councils, and community support, both young men have transformed personal challenges into growth and purpose. You will hear how AFJ helped them build confidence, strengthen self-control, and use their...

In this episode, host Sofia Ng speaks with Anthony Baptiste, who refused to be defined by his case and sentence of 51 years to life. Armed with pure determination, he fought back—reviewing thousands of documents, filing motions, and uncovering evidence that challenged his conviction and changed the course of his life. During his time, he also became a certified paralegal and personal trainer. His...

In this episode, host Sofia Ng speaks with Anthony Pierro about his vision for juvenile justice as a distinct and independent field. From his time as a chief juvenile attorney to his current national work, Pierro explains why youth justice requires specialized training, policies, and a fundamentally different approach than adult systems. He explains how focusing on the root causes of behavior—and...

In this episode, host Sofia Ng speaks with Jesse Crossen about his journey from addiction and incarceration to growth and advocacy. Sentenced at 18, Jesse faced more time in prison than he had been alive—but through education, mentorship, and resilience, he began to rebuild his identity and future. Now released, he founded a nonprofit, the Second Chancer Foundation, is an author, and social media...

In this episode, our host Sofia Ng speaks with Carl Stone (aka Cowboy Felon), who is a musician and mental health advocate rebuilding his life after incarceration. Following his time served, he committed himself to recovery. Tune in as he shares his story of rebuilding through music, writing, and advocacy—uncovering how creative expression can be a path towards healing and helping others facing tr...

In this episode, co-hosts Kalista Lin and Sofia Ng speak with Liz Frederick, a leader in justice reform with over 20 years of experience, about how community-based programs are offering young people a second chance. As a key leader at New York City program Avenues for Justice, Liz has helped expand community-based alternatives to incarceration that now serve more than 600 youth each year, with an...

In this episode, host Sofia Ng speaks with Reginald Dwayne Betts. At 16, Betts was sentenced to prison. But, instead of letting that define him, he chose a path of words and justice. You will hear the riveting journey of Betts, as he shares how poetry became his lifeline, how he earned a Yale JD, and why he launched Freedom Reads—building libraries in prisons to plant seeds of possibility behind b...

In this special episode, host Sofia Ng is joined by Peter Samuelson—film producer, author, and founder of several youth-focused nonprofits. Peter discusses the deep connection between foster care and the juvenile justice system, as well as sharing life lessons about compassion, volunteering, and the transformative impact of mentorship. He explains how education and unconditional support can break...

In this episode, co-hosts Kalista Lin and Sofia Ng speak with Pamela Good, CEO and co-founder of Beyond Basics, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating illiteracy and empowering lives through reading. Pamela shares the inspiring journey behind Beyond Basics, how the organization helps students achieve grade-level literacy, and why literacy is the key to breaking cycles of crim...

It's February! In this special tribute episode, co-hosts Sofia and Kalista explore the history and culture behind Black History Month, exploring its origins and why it remains crucial to recognize it today. Learn more about civil rights activists and juvenile justice advocates, like Malcolm X and Angela Davis, and their impact on modern-day social movements. Diving into the roots of Black resistan...

In this episode, our host Kalista Lin sits down with Michael Mendoza. At just 15 years old, Michael was sentenced to 15-to-life for his involvement in a gang-related murder. Since his parole in 2014, Michael has dedicated his life to transforming the justice system that once confined him. From advocating for SB 261 and AB 1308 to expanding Youth Offender Parole, to leading the charge for Yes on 17...

In this episode, Kalista and Sofia speak with Terrence Graham, the man behind the landmark Supreme Court ruling Graham v. Florida, which declared sentencing juveniles to life without parole for non-homicide crimes unconstitutional. At just 16 years old, Terrence was sentenced to life in prison for armed burglary and attempted robbery. After serving 20 years, he was finally released on February 14,...

We're back with another episode! In this interview, hosts Kalista Lin and Sofia Ng speaks with Jose Norrington, a native of Los Angeles who spent fifteen years in prison for convicted manslaughter and two attempted murders. Released in 2021, thanks to California's SB261, Jose shares his journey from gang life to his role as Development Coordinator at the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC). Tu...

In this episode, featured guest speaker Danzell Nunsuch shares his incredible story of transformation. At 17, Danzell was sentenced to 16-to-life, but within the confines of prison, he was able to pursue a B.A. in Business Management joined Toastmasters International, and mentored fellow inmates. He is the co-founder of Be Slim Bariatrics, won the SBDC Inclusivity Project Pitch Deck Competition, a...

In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life of Dominec Holmes. Raised in the turbulent streets of Southwest Detroit, Dominec's childhood was marked by tragedy, resilience, and a profound spiritual awakening. After the traumatic loss of his father and navigating a chaotic household, Dominec’s early life was a battle for survival, often facing the harsh realities of street life and systemic...

In this latest episode, join us as we dive into this interview of Tyson Nguyen, a Sacramento native whose life took an extraordinary turn after spending over a decade behind bars. From incarceration to inspiration, Tyson's work with the Anti-Recidivism Coalition and California Justice Leaders is of resilience, redemption and relentless pursuit of positive change. Hosted by Kalista Lin, this episod...

In this episode, we had the opportunity to speak with Colie Levar Long, whose life took a transformative turn during his over 26 years of incarceration. Long, now an author, speaker, and staunch advocate for criminal justice reform, shares his journey from the depths of the prison system. He has also become a Program Associate for Georgetown’s Prison and Justice Initiative, and is a part of many i...

In this special collaboration episode, A Second Chance Podcast is joined by The Viking Voice Student Podcast from North Shore High School. In this exclusive interview, the host of The Viking View Student Podcast team speaks with founder and co-host of our podcast Kalista Lin as listeners are treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek to Kalista's personal narrative and the events that sparked...

In this riveting episode, our co-hosts, Kalista Lin and Akshara Keshri talk with Joseph Bell Jr. about his transformative experience. Joseph's journey is an example of the potential for positive change, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Join us as Joseph shares his work as a National LWOP (Life Without Parole) Leadership Council Member and with non-profit organizations.

In this episode, our co-hosts, Kalista and Akshara have a conversation with Briana Payton, a fierce advocate for justice reform. With degrees from Princeton University and the University of Chicago, Briana's work centers on transforming systems perpetuating racial injustice against marginalized communities. As the Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Chicago Appleseed Center for Fair Courts, she...

In this episode, we will dive into the story of Susan Rahman, a passionate advocate for restorative justice and rehabilitation. As the co-founder of Road to Empowerment restorative services, Susan has dedicated her life to empowering individuals within the criminal justice system. Her impactful work extends to her role with currently and formerly incarcerated students at the College of Marin in Ca...

In this heartening episode, we delve into the compelling narrative of Shelly Gutensohn - a mental health advocate. Shelly is the visionary founder of The Restorative Therapy Project. With extensive experience working within correctional facilities and a steadfast dedication to underserved communities, she brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a profound commitment to reshaping lives. Join us...

In this enlightening episode, we explore the redemption story of Jose Burgos, a representation of the potential for change. Join us as we uncover the profound insights of a former offender turned reentry specialist and a member of several national organizations and networks dedicated to children advocacy and youth delinquents. Learn from Jose's experiences and gain a deeper understanding of th...

In this heartening episode, we introduce you to James Earl Hollywood III, a dedicated advocate for equitable system changes that are reshaping the lives of children and families across America. With unwavering commitment and vision, James is at the forefront of driving transformative shifts in support of vulnerable communities. Join us as we delve into James' mission and the impact it's having on...

In this profound episode, we are honored to introduce you to Edwin Paragas, a beacon of hope for those who have walked a challenging path. Having emerged from the shadows of incarceration, Edwin Paragas now stands as a tireless advocate for the mental well-being of incarcerated youth. In this captivating conversation, he shares his journey, shedding light on the pivotal role that mental health pla...