To share compelling stories about system-impacted youth, their families, and their communities, so that listeners are inspired to take meaningful community action and support the advocacy work of the Delta Project.
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Episode 15: Jason Smith on 'Raise the Age' and Redefining Juvenile Justice in Michigan
Season 2 · Episode 1
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 • Duration 01:01:03
In this powerful episode of "What I Know Now," hosts Bilal and Cole delve deep into the world of juvenile justice with their esteemed guest, Jason Smith, the Executive Director of the Michigan Center for Youth Justice. With compelling insights from Bilal's own journey from high school dropout to youth advocate, we explore the critical intersections of personal transformation and systemic reform.
Key Highlights:
Youth Empowerment:
Discover Bilal's stance on the importance of allowing young people to make mistakes and learn, emphasizing supportive community reintegration for youth returning from the adult justice system.
Impactful Research:
Uncover the findings of the "Youth Behind Bars" study, revealing the staggering statistic that 95% of minors in the adult system are there solely because they were 17, fueling advocacy for preventing youth from entering adult courts.
Reformative Advocacy:
Learn about the Michigan Center for Youth Justice's robust efforts to influence policy changes, educate the public, and drive legislative reform to support at-risk youth.
Educational Initiatives:
Host Cole Williams shares experiences from the classroom, using MCYJ’s publications to equip detained youths with knowledge about systemic issues and reforms.
Diversion Programs:
Bilal discusses the effectiveness of robust youth diversion strategies, highlighting therapy, substance abuse treatment, family engagement, and community-based programs as key to reducing reliance on the justice system.
Role of Representation:
Both hosts stress the importance of visible, positive role models and the need for young people to see success as an achievable goal. Bilal shares his own transformative story and ongoing mentorship with "at-risk" youth.
Raise the Age Campaign:
Understand the national movement to increase juvenile court jurisdiction from 17 to 18, which has been a significant part of Michigan's legislative reforms aimed at juvenile justice.
Empowering Youth Voices:
Hear about the statewide fellowship to empower young people involved with the justice system to become advocates and gain transferable skills for policy roles, creating a curriculum with MCYJ staff that covers juvenile justice, policy advocacy, and media engagement.
Family Engagement:
Explore the importance of respectful, effective engagement with families in the juvenile justice system, contrasting with the adult system.
Financial Burdens and Reforms:
Gain insights into the successful advocacy for eliminating juvenile court fines and fees, lifting financial burdens from families, and driving equitable reform across the justice system.
Breaking Down Barriers:
Join us in raw conversations that break down barriers and foster change in perceptions and policies related to juvenile justice, inspired by personal stories and expert insights.
Tune in to be inspired by the dedication and passion driving juvenile justice reform, and learn how the Michigan Center for Youth Justice is making a transformative impact on young lives. Follow "What I Know Now" on all podcast platforms and visit the Delta Project’s website for more advocacy insights.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of youth advocacy, systemic change, and personal redemption.
Episode 14: Patience, Grace, and Understanding: Insights from the What I Know Now Podcast || Season 1 Recap || A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 14
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 • Duration 54:35
Hey listeners, welcome to a special recap episode of "What I Know Now," a podcast by The Delta Project.
In this episode, we'll be looking back on our incredible first season and discussing some of the most impactful moments and guests we've had the privilege of featuring. We'll hear from our hosts Cole, Joel, Bilal, and our producer Caton Vance as they share their personal insights and reflections on the journey so far.
Throughout the season, we've had the honor of elevating the stories of young people in the juvenile justice system, connecting with others involved in the system, and working towards changing narratives and fostering positive change in our community. From heartfelt conversations with guests like Cayden Brown and Stacy McGinnis to the transformative experiences of our very own hosts, this season has been a testament to the power of vulnerability, patience, and open-mindedness.
Join us as we delve into the challenges and triumphs of building this podcast, the lessons we've learned along the way, and our hopes for the future of "What I Know Now" and The Delta Project. We'll also be discussing the importance of giving agency to young people within the juvenile justice system and the impact of negative labels on our youth.
So, sit back, relax, and get ready for an insightful and inspiring look back at our first season. Don't forget to check out the incredible programs offered by The Delta Project on our website and follow us on your favorite podcast platforms. We're just getting started, and we can't wait to share more powerful stories with you in season two!
Episode 05: Judge Kellen Dotson: Embracing Compassion in the Courtroom || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 5
Thursday, December 21, 2023 • Duration 43:54
Dive into a thought-provoking conversation on criminal justice reform with Judge Kellen Dotson in the latest episode of "What I Know Now." Hosts Cole and Joel sit down with the inspiring judge from the 61st district court in Grand Rapids, Michigan, exploring the transformative power of compassion in the legal system. Kellen, a fervent advocate for civil rights with a background in public defense work, challenges conventional perceptions by addressing the disparities and prejudices within the courtroom, especially those affecting people of color.
This episode delves into the often untold human stories behind legal struggles, the crucial role of mentorship, and the systemic changes needed to move society toward true rehabilitation and equality. You’ll be inspired by Kellen’s dedication to bringing love, patience, and education into his courtroom dealings. Tune in to discover why mentorship is key to guiding young minds, why it's essential to see past an individual's worst mistakes, and how the Delta project is making strides in supporting system-impacted youth.
Kellen’s personal journey, his interaction with system-impacted individuals, and his mission to empower communities through informed court participation will captivate anyone interested in social justice, legal reform, and community engagement. Whether discussing his time as a public defender or his approach to holding court, Judge Dotson's insights offer hope for a more equitable and human-centered justice system.
Join us in this episode of "What I Know Now" as we explore the intersections of law, racial justice, and human potential with our esteemed guest, Judge Kellen Dotson. Don't miss this deep dive into how actionable change on a micro level can lead to macro transformations in the justice system. Be part of the conversation that's redefining what we know about crime, punishment, and the possibilities of redemption.
Listen, engage, and be the change with The Delta Project.
Episode 04: System Impacted Youth: Bilal Al-Raed || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 4
Thursday, December 7, 2023 • Duration 28:50
In this enthralling episode of the What I Know Now podcast by The Delta Project, Cole and Joel are joined by Bilal, an artist and poet whose narrative of self-discovery captivates and inspires. His is a tale of personal evolution and the pursuit of creative fulfillment.
Delve into Bilal's journey as he shares his experiences with the juvenile justice system and how mentorship and education became the catalysts for change in his life. Witness the transformation that follows when one is exposed to the powers of literature and poetry, as narrated by someone who's lived through the depths of hardship and risen above it.
This episode uncovers the stark contrasts between environments that can stifle hope and the nurturing role that compassionate educators and mentors can play. Bilal pays homage to individuals like Cole, Mrs. B, and Ms. Shonda, who helped light the path toward a brighter future and provided the stability needed to explore his talents.
Hear Bilal's reflections on community, personal responsibility, and the ways in which his newfound passion for the arts has become a vessel for inspiration and connection. You’ll be moved by the candid conversation and the moving poetry excerpt he shares, an ode to resilience.
By detailing his transformative journey, Bilal articulates the impact that positive experiences and exposure can have—such as the delight of a nice restaurant, the quiet sanctuary of a library, or the escapism found within the pages of great literature.
Ensure you’re subscribed to What I Know Now as we embark on these intimate explorations of growth, understanding, and the human capacity for change. Discover the profound influence of the Delta Project and its mission to empower individuals through education and self-expression.
Join Cole, Joel, and Bilal in episode 4 for a story that will enlighten and engage. Explore with us the lessons learned and wisdom gained that continue to shape lives and foster hope for brighter futures.
Remember to share and support the journey toward personal triumph. What we know now can make all the difference.
Episode 03: Juvenile Justice Association of Michigan || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 1
Tuesday, November 21, 2023 • Duration 36:08
In "What I Know Now" Episode 3, hosts Cole and Joel delve into profound conversations about parenting, childhood trauma, and breaking societal norms. Cole opens up about his transformative journey from a 27-year-old foster parent to a father figure for eight sons, including adopted and biological, and how he navigated the challenges of parenting in the cross-systems. They discuss the importance of black and brown men leading conversations in the parenting sphere. They also stress the need for understanding the "why" behind trauma-induced behaviors instead of impulsive reactions. Further, Cole shares his remarkable work in the juvenile justice system in Sacramento and Michigan, and his innovative venture of a comic book series titled ‘The Fatherhood’ aimed to redefine fatherhood in challenging situations. Plus, they spotlight the untapped superpower of fathers: their presence and normalize expressing emotions. If you're intrigued by stories of personal growth, unconventional fatherhood, and working towards a more equitable juvenile justice system, this is an episode you wouldn't want to miss!
01:48 Working with parents in juvenile justice.
04:41 Biases hinder relationship between parents and POs.
07:58 Probation officer vital for child's rehabilitation.
10:16 Create space for voice, not just talking.
15:34 Relationships are key, but can be harmful.
17:22 Connecting with organization supporting kids, families & Hope
20:28 Teenager speaks out about experiences in foster care.
23:50 Parenting: Understanding trauma, behavior, and control.
26:43 Humanizing work by helping families find purpose.
32:51 Father's superpower: showing love and affection.
34:35 Father's presence is the ultimate gift.
Episode 2: Stacy McGinnis || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 2
Wednesday, November 8, 2023 • Duration 40:07
In this riveting episode of "What I Know Now: A Delta Project Podcast," our hosts, Cole and Joel, sit down with the esteemed Stacy McGinnis, a retired superintendent of the juvenile Detention center in Grand Rapids with over 30 years of experience in the juvenile justice system. Strap in as Stacy takes us on an eye-opening journey, shedding light on her groundbreaking residential program, the Delta Project.
As Stacy's observations of children being placed in distant facilities with little to no behavioral improvement troubled her, she became determined to chart a different path. Join us as we delve into the core concept behind the Delta program - impacting young people during their time in the facility and assisting in successfully reintegrating them into their communities.
Prepare to have your perspective shifted as Stacy passionately reminds us that the young people in her facility are simply kids who made poor decisions. She paints a vivid picture of them engaging in typical kid activities, emphasizing the importance of empathy and meeting them where they are.
But don't think Stacy shies away from the tough questions. She acknowledges the challenge of showing empathy while considering the victims involved, but emphatically stresses the need to look beyond the charges and focus on the genuine needs of these young individuals.
As our conversation unfolds, we explore the intricacies of Stacy's journey, from her initial switch from business to criminal justice, to her various roles within the court system. We also touch on her unique parenting experiences and how they shaped her approach to working with young people.
Highlighting the significance of investment in the youth, Stacy advocates for diverting funds towards prevention and initial involvement with the system. She shares heartwarming stories of impactful relationships and encourages listeners to plant seeds of hope in the lives of these young souls.
Episode 01: How It All Started || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 1
Wednesday, November 8, 2023 • Duration 41:05
In this first episode of "What I Know Now," hosted by Cole and Joel from The Delta Project, we dive into the challenges faced by young fathers and how they are supported. Join us as we explore the importance of creating a safe space for young dads to discuss their experiences, the success of a program dedicated to supporting them, and the indirect benefits that come from supporting young fathers, including the well-being of young mothers and children.
As we engage with young men in a detention center, we uncover the shame and silence surrounding fatherhood. We realize that nobody has asked these young men about their status as fathers before, and the impact of this simple conversation is profound.
Throughout the episode, we emphasize the importance of inclusion and involving young people in decision-making. From designing our logo to shaping the brand, their input has been instrumental.
We also share a remarkable journey of two partners on a quest for self-discovery, searching for answers about becoming something more. Follow their inspiring transformation as they turn their focus to helping kids tell their stories and fostering connections.
In a surprising twist, we recount our first encounter with That Early Bird, a space that defied our preconceptions and provided a diverse and inclusive atmosphere. We discuss the need for businesses and organizations to truly connect with people, beyond surface-level observations.
With each step, we continue to push boundaries and create positive change. Learn about our collaboration with Gorilla, a film production company, and our groundbreaking transformation of a detention center's visitation space into a storytelling hub.
This episode also dives deep into the importance of grassroots organizations, diversion programs for juveniles, and expanded funding for evidence-based research. Tune in to hear about our engagement with the Delta Project and how it's changing lives.
Episode 13: The Role of Music in Social Change: A Conversation with Mykal Rose || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 13
Monday, July 15, 2024 • Duration 31:17
Join hosts Joel and Cole in a transformative conversation with reggae legend Mykal Rose and special guest Bilal on this enriching episode of What I Know Now: A Podcast by The Delta Project.
Dive deep into the lived experiences and wisdom of Mykal Rose, who opens up about his journey growing up in the challenging environments of Jamaica's ghettos. Mykal shares compelling stories of his near-violent encounters and emphasizes the crucial need for power, community support, and second chances for the youth—a demographic that truly represents the future of our society.
Explore the power of music, as Mykal discusses his current afrobeat album and legendary tracks like "General Penitentiary," which has a timeless impact in discouraging a life of crime. Bilal joins the conversation, asking imperative questions about urban communities and systemic issues, while Mykal reveals how he avoided violence and the police's radar, propelled by the inspiring influence of his father.
The episode further highlights the importance of reciprocal relationships between elders and young people, stressing the need for elders to listen and guide the youth. Learn about Black Uhuru's unforgettable performance at a California prison and its profound message against seeing imprisonment as a status symbol. Experience the hosts' passionate discussion on the role of absent fathers and the profound influence of positive father figures in redirecting lives.
Reflect on Mykal's deep connection to Africa, his dreams of repatriation, and his commitment to humanitarian rights. The conversation also touches upon the evolution of music and creative processes, with anecdotes about breaking into the music industry influenced by legends like BB King and R&B icons.
Tune in and be inspired. Check out more programs on The Delta Project's website and follow us on various platforms to stay connected.
Episode 11: Changing the System: Cayden Brown on Juvenile Justice and Teen Advocacy || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 11
Thursday, May 30, 2024 • Duration 43:29
Join us for an inspiring episode of "What I Know Now" by The Delta Project, where hosts Joel, Cole, and Bilal dive deep into the world of youth advocacy and justice with the trailblazing Cayden Brown. At just 17, Cayden is already a juvenile defense attorney and a passionate activist dedicated to transforming the justice system from within.
In this episode, Cayden shares his compelling journey, fueled by personal experiences within the legal system that drove him to seek justice for others. We explore the revolutionary Trespass Project, an initiative spearheaded by Cayden to empower teenagers to create meaningful change in society. From the importance of representation in the justice system to redefining the concept of trespass as a force for good, Cayden offers a fresh perspective on advocacy and empowerment.
Discover how the teen court program, boasting a 90% success rate in reducing youth recidivism, leverages peer juries to divert first-time offenders from a path of wrongdoing. Cayden and Bilal discuss the necessity of education and legal literacy within marginalized communities, emphasizing the role of historical understanding in shaping a just future. Learn about the significance of diversion programs, redirecting young offenders through community service and rehabilitation rather than punitive measures.
Hear firsthand how Cayden's commitment to restorative justice and long-term systemic change is influencing juvenile justice work in Michigan, and how October 1 marks a milestone in these ongoing efforts. This episode also offers valuable advice for young people looking to get involved in activism and advocacy, underscoring the power of youth in driving societal change.
Tune in and be inspired by Cayden Brown's relentless pursuit of equity and justice. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or new to the conversation, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and ignite your passion for meaningful change.
Timestamp:
00:00 17-year-old kid from Detroit, on a mission.
06:02 Teen court provides juvenile diversion through peer juries.
Episode 09: Jakari Richardson: Rekindling Black Unity and Challenging Systemic Barriers || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 9
Monday, April 22, 2024 • Duration 50:19
In this eye-opening episode of 'What I Know Now,' we delve deep into the heart of the black community's economic and social challenges with renowned activist Jakari Richardson. As our special guest, Jakari unveils the stark realities of growing up amidst the scarcity of black businesses and opportunities, and how this environment fuels a cycle of mass incarceration and crime.
This episode is not just a narrative of hardships but a beacon of hope and a call to action. Join us as Jakari discusses the transformative power of psychological enlightenment and education in breaking the chains of systemic oppression.
Discover the power of unity and resilience as Jakari and Bilal share the untold therapeutic aspects of barbershop conversations – a sacred space where black and brown men find connection, healing, and self-discovery. These candid talks reveal not only vulnerabilities but also spark crucial dialogues about identity, history, and empowerment.
In their journey of self-reflection, our hosts Joel and Cole unravel their own defining moments when they discovered their profound connections to history and its impact on their roles today. The team uncovers the troubling disconnect between African Americans and Africans, dissecting the stereotypes and educational divide that shape their perceptions of one another.
Riveting and insightful, this episode draws you into the world of activism beyond the front lines of protests and into the everyday acts of establishing community businesses and promoting black love and unity. Jakari challenges us all, sharing his quest to forge meaningful connections across diverse mindsets without offense, while illustrating the cultural bonds with his African heritage.
From the influence of family and community to the unyielding pursuit of sharing knowledge, Jakari's story sheds light on the overlooked histories and legacies of black figures – the known and unknown heroes like Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., Marcus Garvey, and Claudette Colvin.
Confronting the decline of the black family unit against the sharp rise of incarceration and economic turmoil, 'What I Know Now' paints a compelling picture of the past's grip on the present. This episode is not only an exploration of activism and identity but also serves as a clarion call to reclaim history, overcome internal divisions, and foster an enduring legacy of strength and solidarity.
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00:00 Returned to self, sparked journey of manhood.
04:24 Classroom learning with real-world impact.
08:58 Detention was better than jail for me.
10:36 14-day quarantine, limited outings, temperature struggles.
15:43 Initially resistant, but eventually embraced college.
19:22 Equal access to support for all children.
21:03 Longing for a different life, beyond ghetto.
25:04 Career uncertainty, passion for writing and art.
27:42 Gratitude for impact and hope for future.
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Join us for an emotional rollercoaster as we hear the inspiring story of a young man who entered detention at a tender age, charged with a horrifying crime. Through empathy and understanding, his narrative unfolds, showcasing the power of relationships built within the system to save lives and foster transformation.
We conclude this episode with a call to action for society at large. Stacy urges us to invest in after-school programs, expose kids to new experiences, and provide parenting components within treatment programs to drive lasting change.
Don't miss this thought-provoking episode filled with powerful stories, insightful perspectives, and a passionate plea for a brighter future for our nation's youth. Tune in as Stacy McGinnis shares her invaluable wisdom on "What I Know Now: The Delta Project Podcast."
Timestamp Overview
00:01:41 Stacey is an expert on juvenile justice.
00:04:12 Met university VP, shadowed judge, worked 30 years.
00:08:22 Kids moved far from parents, no change, waitlist. Residency program helps reintegrate community.
00:13:28 Did we make the right choices for this child?
00:16:32 Traumatized kids separated from parents, low education.
00:19:22 Media attention on young murderer leads to empathy.
00:24:16 Be proactive, invest in kids for positive change.
00:28:38 North Star: Becoming what I don't see.
00:31:54 Reframe kids at risk as potential leaders.
00:33:22 Invest in kids, address issues, be proactive.
00:38:56 Thanks, Stacey, for trusting my idea and allowing community involvement in the Delta Project, which elevates stories from behind bars and impacts our children.
00:39:49 Much appreciation for all of you.
Join us on this compelling journey of understanding, advocacy, and storytelling. We reflect on our experiences, challenge the status quo, and empower young people to capture their own narratives. By providing tools and skills, we aim to build a future of opportunities for all.
Timestamped Overview
00:02:17 Becoming something, starting from the beginning.
00:03:28 Curious about connecting kids in media space.
00:07:47 Two guys team up, searching for answers.
00:10:16 Early Bird grew on me; unfamiliar places
Reflective of disconnected communities; need ambassadors
00:14:05 Gorilla film company transforms detention center space.
00:17:05 Involving youth, expanding storytelling, collaborative logo design.
00:20:21 Joining task force, reforming the juvenile justice system.
00:24:13 Young men in detention centers face shame over fatherhood.
00:28:16 Curriculum reflects black and brown fatherhood.
00:32:30 Shonda Vaughn, an amazing community worker, joins the team.
00:34:57 Empowering black and brown kids to tell their own stories.
00:39:13 Nonprofit startup podcast evolving to tell stories.
06:52 Feeling intimidated in the justice system's history.
11:22 Turning college win into inspiring teen movement.
16:35 Crime as location, diversion can redirect youth.
19:55 Working with senators to pass disruptive legislation.
23:26 Teen court provides young people with mentorship.
26:57 Seeking positive black role models in the community.
27:37 Challenges recidivism rates in juvenile detention.
30:43 Youth aspire to serve despite systemic fears.
37:02 Michigan shifting juvenile justice, importance of teen court
38:34 Reading and learning to be comfortable.
42:24 Gen Z rising and taking over society.
Be sure to tune in to Episode 09, 'Unraveling the Struggles and Triumphs of Black Activism with Jakari Richardson,' for an unforgettable dialogue that will not only inform but inspire you to make a difference in your community.
Listen and subscribe to "What I Know Now" for more profound conversations that ignite change and draw lessons from the lived experiences of our guests.
