The Path Forward Podcast

In this episode of The Path Forward Podcast™, we delve into Caleb's transformative journey from a life marred by repeated incarcerations, drug abuse, and childhood traumas to becoming a beacon of hope for other justice-impacted individuals. After an eye-opening religious experience, Caleb turned his life around, now mentoring incarcerated individuals and spreading love in support groups. Currently...

In this powerful episode of The Path Forward Podcast™, host Augie sits down with Eric Anderson, a dedicated advocate for restorative justice, to discuss his transformative journey from a life sentence without parole to becoming a beacon of hope and change. Eric shares his profound insights on post-traumatic growth, the challenges of reentry into society, and the importance of community support for...

In this inspiring episode of The Path Forward Podcast™, Augie takes a heartfelt journey down memory lane, highlighting the most impactful moments from the past twelve episodes. Through a series of powerful quotes and memorable clips, this episode serves as a perfect recap for new listeners and a meaningful reflection for our dedicated audience. Augie also shares his visionary outlook for the podca...

In Episode 12, "The Sky is the Limit," host Augie sits down with Wendell Robinson, who shares his remarkable journey from the streets of Chicago during the crack epidemic to becoming the Executive Director of Restore Justice. Convicted of two murders at 17 and serving 16 years in one of the most dangerous prisons, Wendell's story is one of transformation through education, resilience, and support....

On this week's episode, Augie sits down with Sean Sullivan, a formerly incarcerated individual who turned his life around after serving time for drug-related crimes. Sean opens up about his transformative experience in prison, sharing how it allowed him to gain new skills and insights about himself. Rather than letting his past define him, Sean has dedicated his life to giving back. He discusses t...

In this compelling episode of The Path Forward Podcast, Augie sits down with Noah Asher, the award-winning author of Chaos: Overcoming the Overwhelming. Noah's journey is one of wrong turns, addiction struggles, and ultimately incarceration. Yet, through his own tumultuous experiences, Noah has emerged as a beacon of hope and healing for others navigating life's darkest moments. Tackling themes of...

Welcome back to the second part of this episode, where David Girzadas, Dean of Advanced Manufacturing at Daley College, takes Augie on an immersive tour of the campus. Join us as we step into the world of cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning that defines the advanced manufacturing program at Daley College. Get an exclusive look inside the classrooms and workshops where students hone their...

In part 1 of this episode of The Path Forward, Augie sits down with David Girzadas, the esteemed Dean of Advanced Manufacturing at Richard J. Daley College. Together, they delve deep into the world of advanced manufacturing, exploring its significance, opportunities, and the transformative role of City Colleges of Chicago in this industry. Join Augie and David as they demystify advanced manufactur...

In this episode of The Path Forward, Augie sits down with a remarkable guest, Yohance Lacour, whose journey from incarceration to entrepreneurship is nothing short of inspiring. Yohance and Augie share a unique bond, having been incarcerated together. Yohance's story is one of resilience, determination, and finding purpose in unexpected places. At the age of 34, Yohance was sentenced to a daunting...

In this powerful episode of The Path Forward,  Augie delves into the inspiring journey of Justin Knapp, a career planner at McHenry County Workforce. Join Augie as he sits down with Justin, who shares his deeply personal story of redemption and transformation. Justin's journey began in tumultuous circumstances, as he found himself incarcerated during his teenage years. Initially resistant to learn...

In this compelling episode of The Path Forward, host Augie sits down with Yaacov Delaney, the Director of the Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton’s Justice, Equity, and Opportunity Initiative, to delve into a remarkable journey of redemption and resilience. Yaacov shares his harrowing tale of receiving a 45-year sentence at the tender age of 19 and his transformative experiences within the confines...

Join host Augie in an inspiring episode of The Path Forward as he sits down with the remarkable Willette Benford. Willette shares her incredible life journey, from growing up in an Illinois housing project to navigating abusive relationships and dropping out of high school in the 9th grade. In a shocking turn of events, Willette found herself facing a 50-year prison sentence for a survival crime....

In this compelling episode of The Path Forward, host Augie sits down with Marlon Chamberlain, the inspirational leader of the Illinois Coalition to End Permanent Punishment. Marlon's story begins in the streets of Chicago, where a turbulent upbringing led him down a challenging path. After facing a 20-year federal prison sentence, he entered incarceration with a transformed mindset, viewing his ar...

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Path Forward. In this installment, Augie sits down with the remarkable Celia Colón, a true beacon of resilience and empowerment. Join them as they delve into Celia's incredible journey and her transformative role as "Women's Greatest Advocate." Celia's trajectory shifted dramatically when she found herself incarcerated for 15 years after a life-altering...

In this extraordinary episode of The Path Forward, we delve into an inspiring narrative of triumph over adversity as our special guest, Dr. Chico Tillmon, shares his remarkable journey. Join us in this riveting conversation as he recounts his experiences and unveils the powerful transformation that led him to become a key figure in the fight against gun violence. Our guest's journey is nothing sho...

In this compelling inaugural episode of The Path Forward, listeners are in for a riveting conversation as Hamilton Baiden, CEO of Youturn Health, sits down with Augie Ghilarducci, the inspirational host of "The Path Forward" podcast. Augie, founder of 2nd Opportunity, shares his powerful story of incarceration and redemption, offering listeners an intimate look into the transformative journey that...

Welcome to The Path Forward Podcast. My name is Augie Ghilarducci, and I know what it's like to need a second chance. After making some really horrible choices and bad decisions, I found myself incarcerated for 13 years. My path allowed me to face my mistakes, to admit my greed, and to re-discover my faith. On this podcast, I will be bringing incredible guests who have walked down the path of re-e...