In this powerful solo episode of Prison to Promise, I will share a deeply personal and unfiltered monologue about a decades-long friendship that turned toxic. From shared childhood memories and unwavering loyalty during incarceration to painful betrayal and unexpected threats, this story pulls back the curtain on the emotional toll of staying connected to people who can’t accept your growth.
This conversation explores the transformative journey of Anyakara, who shares her experiences of incarceration, the healing power of art, and the importance of community and storytelling. Through her personal narrative, she highlights how art became a tool for coping with trauma, fostering connections among incarcerated women, and advocating for change within the justice system. Anya-Kara emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding towards those impacted by incarceration, aiming to break down barriers and redefine identities beyond labels.
Takeaways:
Art can serve as a powerful tool for healing and coping.
Personal transformation often occurs through adversity and reflection.
Community and connection are vital for emotional support.
Storytelling can bridge gaps between individuals and foster understanding.
Art can change the culture within incarcerated environments.
Empathy is essential in addressing the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals.
The impact of loss can lead to profound personal growth.
Creating safe spaces for expression can empower others.
Art can challenge societal perceptions of identity and worth.
The journey of healing is ongoing and requires community support.
In this powerful episode of Prison to Promise, host Dr. Craig Waleed sits down with James Tompkins, an early-career researcher and MSW student whose journey from justice involvement to academic and professional excellence is inspiring and instructive. James shares what sparked his passion for social justice and recovery services and how higher education played a pivotal role in his transformation.
Together, they explore the structural barriers formerly incarcerated individuals face when accessing recovery resources and higher education and the innovative programs and policy shifts that can pave the way for true equity and inclusion. James offers thoughtful insights on the future of social work, his upcoming initiatives, and what it means to turn a prison sentence into a promise of purpose.
Whether you're an advocate, educator, student, or justice-impacted individual, this episode offers essential perspectives on healing, higher education, and the systemic change we need now.
In this powerful episode of Prison to Promise, host Craig Waleed sits down with Anisa Sabur-Mumin, a fierce advocate, organizer, and leader who has directly impacted the movement to end solitary confinement. Anisa shares her deeply personal journey from surviving incarceration to becoming a central figure in campaigns like Unlock the Box and New York's HALT Solitary legislation.
Together, they explore the emotional and physical toll of solitary confinement, the systemic injustices it perpetuates—especially for women and people of color—and the urgent need for reform. Anisa offers insights on coalition-building, policy change, and the healing power of storytelling. With honesty and hope, she discusses the challenges of organizing against entrenched systems, the importance of caring for one's spirit, and how listeners can join the movement for a more humane and just society.
Whether you're an advocate, policymaker, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of the carceral system, this episode will leave you inspired to act.
In this powerful episode of Prison to Promise, Dr. Craig Waleed sits down with Dr. Evan Ashkin, Director of the Formerly Incarcerated Transition (FIT) Program at UNC, to explore the critical intersection of incarceration, healthcare, and reentry. Dr. Ashkin shares how his journey as a physician led him to create a groundbreaking program that bridges the gap between prison and community healthcare. Together, they dive into the urgent health disparities facing returning citizens, the lasting trauma of solitary confinement, and the systemic barriers that stand in the way of wellness and dignity. This conversation sheds light on innovative solutions, policy opportunities, and the power of collaboration to improve outcomes for justice-impacted individuals.
In this powerful episode of Prison to Promise, I sit down with Donald Hinton—author of From Prison to Properties and founder of 2nd Chance L.L.C.—to explore his journey from incarceration to empowerment through real estate. Donald opens up about the formative experiences that led to his imprisonment, the turning point that sparked his transformation, and how he discovered a passion for real estate while behind bars.
We dive deep into the realities of reentry, including the stigma of a criminal record and the challenges of building a business after prison. Donald shares how mentorship and community support helped him rise above barriers and create a purpose-driven enterprise that integrates housing, employment, and education for others returning home.
He explains why real estate is a promising path for justice-impacted individuals, offers practical advice for aspiring investors with criminal records, and shares a heartening success story from 2nd Chance L.L.C. We also reflect on the writing process behind his book, the systemic shifts needed to support reentry, and the legacy he hopes to leave.
Whether you're navigating life after incarceration, working to support others, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode reminds you that redemption is possible and that second chances can build futures.
Listen in to learn how Donald Hinton turned confinement into a calling—and how you can help advance the mission of 2nd Chance L.L.C.
In this powerful and overdue episode of Prison to Promise, recorded on March 11, 2025, I sit down with Phillip A. Jones—incarcerated but far from idle in his pursuit of justice, healing, and transformation. Due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts and production delays on my end, this important conversation did not air as originally intended. But I believe stories like Phillip’s have no expiration date, and I’m proud to finally bring it to you.
Phillip speaks with transparency, clarity, and wisdom about his life's early chapters that led to incarceration and the inner work that sparked a radical transformation behind bars. He shares how education and mentorship shaped his personal development, how he became a voice for justice reform, and why he founded Inside/Outside Consults, a platform to bridge the gap between incarceration and reentry through restorative practices.
Phillip also opens up about overcoming stigma, building trust post-conviction, and the power of second chances. This episode is a testament to human resilience and the belief that no one is defined solely by their past.
Tune in to hear how Phillip embodies the Prison to Promise philosophy—and why hope and purpose are never truly out of reach.
In this inspiring episode of Prison to Promise, Dr. Craig Waleed sits down with Dr. Clover Perez, Founder and CEO of A Beautiful HEART, to explore her powerful journey from incarceration to national advocacy. Dr. Perez shares the deeply personal experiences that shaped her path and inspired the founding of her organization, which empowers justice-impacted women through support, education, and leadership development.
Together, they explore the unique challenges formerly incarcerated women face, the stigma they must overcome, and the importance of self-worth and opportunity in the reentry process. Dr. Perez offers a passionate critique of current policies and a bold vision for reform while sharing tangible ways we can all be part of the solution. Her voice is a force for transformation, and her work is a blueprint for change.
This conversation is a must-listen if you're seeking inspiration, insight, or action steps to create a more just society.
In this powerful episode of Prison to Promise, host Craig Waleed sits down with Daniel Bullman, a doctoral scholar, public health advocate, and former law enforcement officer. Daniel opens up about his unique path from policing the streets to reshaping how we think about reentry, trauma, and support networks for formerly incarcerated individuals.
With insights drawn from personal experiences and rigorous research, Daniel discusses:
Whether you're a policymaker, practitioner, or someone impacted by the system, this episode will challenge and inspire you to rethink the boundaries of justice and compassion.
Veterans who have experienced incarceration face distinct challenges when reentering society, from securing stable housing to accessing employment and mental health care. In this compelling episode of Prison to Promise, Dr. Waleed speaks with Lucas Vrbsky, a Veterans Justice Program Reentry Specialist, about the systemic barriers veterans encounter and the solutions available through the VA. We discuss the "Housing First" approach, the role of mental health care in reentry, and strategies for overcoming stigma. Lucas also offers valuable advice for incarcerated veterans preparing for release and shares his hopes for the future of veteran reentry programs. Tune in for an insightful conversation about how we can better support those who have served their country and are now striving for a second chance.
In this episode of Prison to Promise, Dr. Craig Waleed sits down with Chablis Dandridge, a formerly incarcerated individual who turned his life around after experiencing both incarceration and a life-changing injury. Chablis shares the pivotal moments that led to his transformation, the mental shifts necessary for success after prison, and the challenges of reentry.
As the author of A Letter to My Sons, he discusses how writing helped him process his past and build a new future while also emphasizing the importance of fatherhood in his journey. Chablis is committed to guiding at-risk youth and supporting formerly incarcerated individuals in their reintegration process.
Tune in as Chablis and Dr. Waleed discuss the justice system's failures, the urgent need for policy reform, and how communities can better support returning citizens. Whether you’re someone impacted by incarceration, a justice advocate, or simply looking for a story of resilience, this episode offers valuable lessons and hope.
In this compelling episode of Prison to Promise, host Craig Waleed engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Andy Potter, a former corrections officer and the founder of One Voice United; Andy has been at the forefront of efforts to transform prison culture, improve working conditions for corrections staff, and promote humane treatment for incarcerated individuals. Drawing from his extensive experience inside the system, Andy shares his unique perspective on the urgent need for reforms, the impact of solitary confinement, and the challenges of balancing public safety with decarceration. Tune in to hear about his vision for the future of corrections and how education, training, and policy change can lead to a more effective and just system for everyone involved.
In this episode of Prison to Promise, I talk with Glenn E. Martin, a nationally recognized leader in criminal justice reform. Having transformed his life after incarceration, Glenn has dedicated his career to advocacy, policy change, and leadership development for formerly incarcerated individuals. As the founder of JustLeadershipUSA, he pioneered the idea that those closest to the problem are best equipped to develop solutions. In this thought-provoking conversation, Glenn shares insights into his journey, the challenges of reform, and his vision for a justice system that prioritizes human dignity. Tune in as we explore the pivotal moments that shaped his path, the importance of community-driven change, and the policies that could redefine justice in America.
After two back-to-back combat tours, William "Castro" Castro returned home only to face a life sentence at 21. Instead, he served 12.5 years in the North Carolina prison system, where he found clarity and prepared for success beyond the walls. In this episode of Prison to Promise, Castro shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey and drops invaluable insights for anyone transitioning from incarceration to freedom. Don't miss this powerful conversation on resilience, redemption, and what comes next—Que Sigue.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 #234179
Thumb Correctional Facility
3225 John Conley Drive
Lapeer, Michigan 48446
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.
