Restorative Works – Details, episodes & analysis

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Raymond E. Kramer, J.D., to the Restorative Works! Podcast.

Claire is joined by co-host, IIRP Vice President for Partnerships Keith Hickman. Judge Kramer joins us and provides a compelling narrative of how restorative justice, mediation, and peacekeeping circles have shifted the paradigm in administrative law, emphasizing the importance of human connection and relational repair. He discusses the challenges and successes of implementing these approaches in a rights-based, often bureaucratic, government setting, and shares stories that illustrate the profound impact of restorative practices on individuals and organizations.

Judge Kramer is an Administrative Law judge and the Executive Director of the Center for Creative Conflict Resolution and the Director of the Administrative Judicial Institute at the New York City Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH).  The Center serves as the New York City government’s central resource for conflict resolution and restorative justice practices. Judge Kramer is an experienced mediator and is an adjunct professor of law at New York University Law School, where he co-teaches the Mediation and Advanced Mediation: Dispute Systems Design Clinics. He is also an adjunct professor at New York University’s School of Professional Studies and New York University’s Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, where he teaches Dispute Resolution, Conflict Management, and Negotiation.  Judge Kramer is a member of the New York City Bar Association, a Board Member for the National Association of the Administrative Law Judiciary (NAALJ), and a Board Member and past President of the New York State Administrative Law Judges Association (NYSALJA).  Judge Kramer received his B.A. from the University of Virginia and his Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School.

Tune in to hear about the importance of restoring relationships in the workplace, the innovative efforts of the Center for Creative Conflict Resolution, and the broader vision of creating a more collaborative and supportive government environment.

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Gabriel Velez, Ph.D., to the Restorative Works! Podcast. 

Dr. Velez joins us to explore the intricate ways adolescents perceive violence, peace, and justice, shedding light on the critical need for adult reflection and humility in restorative work. They discuss how the societal emphasis on punitive measures influences young minds and the significance of creating safe, engaging environments for students to express their voices.

He shares his journey from a classroom teacher in New York, Peru, and Colombia to a thought leader in the academic realm. He reflects on the complexities and emotional challenges of implementing restorative justice in everyday school environments, drawing on his experiences in Colombia during the peace process. Dr. Velez also addresses the integration of PeaceWorks programs in Colombian schools, emphasizing the importance of adaptable, localized approaches to restorative justice.  

Dr. Velez is an assistant professor and developmental psychologist in the Department of Educational Policy and Leadership (EDPL) in the College of Education at Marquette University. He studies identity development in adolescents, particularly in relation to civic development, human rights, and peace, including young people’s understandings and responses to peace education and restorative practices in their schools. He has collaborated extensively with schools and nonprofit educational organizations in Milwaukee and Colombia. He is working on a Spencer Foundation Small Research grant study about Black and Latino/a students’ perceptions and meaning making of school-based restorative justice. He is the 2022 recipient of Division 48 of the APA’s Ed Cairns Early Career Award. He received a B.A. in History and Literature from Harvard University, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago in Comparative Human Development.

Tune in to learn more about Dr. Velez’s vision for the future of restorative practices, including the role of anti-racism and youth leadership in shaping more equitable and inclusive communities. 

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes back Justin Mui to the Restorative Works! Podcast. 

Justin joins us again to follow up on the conversation started in episode 42 where he took us through an exploration of the benefits of utilizing a relational mindset in the workplace. Justin shares the journey of LCCS’s Restorative Employment Hub initiative which focuses on restoring dignity and providing equitable employment opportunities for formally incarcerated individuals. He discusses how restorative practices foster meaningful connections between these individuals and potential employers, positively reshaping workplace cultures. He also highlights the pivotal role of peer supporters in prisons, the unexpected positive responses from employers, and the personal triumphs of individuals who have embraced and championed restorative practices both during and after incarceration.

Justin is the Executive Director at Lutheran Community Care Services Ltd (LCCS), a social service agency located in Singapore that focuses on driving a restorative movement to break the cycle of hurt and build connected communities of empowered individuals, for the people, public and private sectors.  He has facilitated proactive relationship-building and responsive peacemaking circles for management, staff of government agencies, professional associations, and social service agencies. As an advocate for the importance of positive relationships in the workplace and the impact on well-being and productivity, Justin has designed and facilitated experiences such as “Conversations that Matter” for companies to foster a space for leaders to adopt a relational mindset and strengthen workplace relationships. He also designed Restorative Leadership learning experiences for middle managers and senior management from the Youth Residential Service Ministry of Social and Family Development.

Justin has a master’s in Tri-Sector Collaboration from the Singapore Management University and is a registered social worker with the Singapore Association of Social Workers. He is also a Master Solution-Focused Brief Therapist with the International Alliance of Solution-Focused Teaching Institutes.

Tune in to learn more about LCCS’s Restorative Employment Hub and read Dr. John Bailey’s Presidential Paper A science of human dignity: Belonging, voice and agency as universal human needs, as mentioned in this episode.

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Candace Okello and Tera Monroe of Carnegie Mellon University to the Restorative Works! Podcast.  Claire is joined again by co-host Associate Director for the Collaborative Center for Restorative Practices in Higher Education Kaleigh Mrowka, Ph.D. In this series of episodes, we explore the use of restorative practices in higher education through various aspects of the college and university sphere.

Tera and Candace join us to share their experiences implementing restorative practices, particularly focusing on the impactful use of listening circles as a method to engage with challenging topics. They emphasize how these circles provide a safe space for students, faculty, and staff to enter open dialogue, share experiences, and foster understanding amid polarizing world events. Tera and Candace offer insights into the preparation, facilitation, and post-circle reflections, focusing on the importance of community building and creating inclusive environments. They discuss how Carnegie Mellon's commitment to restorative practices is shaping campus culture and empowering individuals to embrace difference and discourse. 

Candace serves as the assistant dean of Student Affairs for Civility Initiatives at Carnegie Mellon University. In her role, she is responsible for designing and leading initiatives geared toward proactive community building and engagement with an emphasis on civility. These efforts are intended to increase opportunities for civil discourse, enhance students’ capacity to resolve conflicts and assist in cultivating a deep sense of self-awareness and belonging through dialogue and restorative practices. Candace is an alumna of Westminster College and Duquesne University, and she is currently pursuing her doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh.

Tera is the associate dean of Student Affairs at Carnegie Mellon University, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the student experience. Her responsibilities include overseeing residential education, serving as a college liaison for Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and supporting exchange students between CMU’s campuses in Pittsburgh and Doha, Qatar.  Tera’s passion lies in creating vibrant and inclusive communities where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally. She collaborates with students, faculty, and staff to enhance the overall well-being of the campus community.

Tune in to hear more from Tera and Candace as they provide practical advice for implementing listening circles on other campuses, highlighting the potential for building relational communities and navigating complex issues with empathy and understanding.  

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Debra Dean Murphy, Ph.D. and Jess Scott, Ph.D., to the Restorative Works! Podcast. Claire is joined again by co-host Associate Director for the Collaborative Center for Restorative Practices in Higher Education Kaleigh Mrowka, Ph.D. In this series of episodes, we explore the use of restorative practices in higher education through various aspects of the college and university sphere.   

Dr. Murphy and Dr. Scott join us to discuss their work as professors and co-directors of the Center for Restorative Justice at West Virginia Wesleyan College. They share insights into the center's mission and its focus on community building, both on campus and in the larger region. Highlighting the diverse topics explored, including climate collapse, racial justice, and overconsumption, they foster open dialogue and learning outside traditional classroom settings. 

Dr. Murphy and Dr. Scott provide insights into the center’s partnerships with local organizations that address homelessness, food insecurity, and addiction through meal services and circle conversations. They emphasize the pivotal role of students in driving initiatives, citing examples of student-led interventions that challenge punitive systems and promote restorative justice. 

Dr. Murphy is a professor of Religious Studies and the co-director of the Center for Restorative Justice at West Virginia Wesleyan College. She is the author of two books and numerous scholarly articles, and is currently working on a monograph tentatively titled “Grieving the End of the World: Climate Collapse and Other Breakdowns.” 

Dr. Scott is an associate professor of Gender Studies at West Virginia Wesleyan College and the co-director of the Center for Restorative Justice. Her research is primarily concerned with the spatial politics of sexuality in South Africa and the US South. Her first monograph, “Home Is Where Your Politics Are,” will be published in June of 2024. 

Tune in to learn more about their work and gain insight into how students’ grassroots initiatives are creating actionable hope and fostering change, not just within campus walls, but across entire communities. 

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Jeff Godowski, M.Ed., to the Restorative Works! Podcast.  Claire is joined again by co-host Associate Director for the Collaborative Center for Restorative Practices in Higher Education Kaleigh Mrowka, Ph.D. In this series of episodes, we explore the use of restorative practices in higher education through various aspects of the college and university sphere.  

Jeff joins us to discuss their research on conflict avoidance among college students, particularly focusing on the impact of social disconnection and generational dynamics. Drawing from their work, Jeff emphasizes the importance of understanding students' experiences and building empathy across generations. They highlight the significance of shifting from punitive approaches to a strengths-based, empathetic mindset both in resolving conflicts and reshaping systemic norms in higher education. 

Jeff is an IIRP Instructor, Assistant Dean at Cornell University, and owner of JP Godowski Consulting, LLC.  As a trainer, Jeff facilitates spaces where teams and individuals can practice vulnerability to understand more about themselves and others, opening doors for communication across differences. They are also pursuing a Ph.D. in Community Research and Action at Binghamton University's College of Community and Public Affairs, where they hope to research the impact of restorative practices among students, staff, faculty, and administrators in college and university settings. Jeff earned a Bachelor of Arts in Classics from the College of the Holy Cross and a Master of Education in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from the University of Vermont. 

Tune in to hear Jeff’s perspective on how restorative practices can transform relationships and promote a culture of connection and growth in academic settings. 

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes IIRP President, Linda Kligman, Ph.D., to the Restorative Works! Podcast.  

Dr. Kligman joins us to discuss her new book, Heart Strong Work: Improving Workplace Culture, and share her journey and insights into creating inclusive and participatory workplaces. From her unique metaphor of the heart, inspired by her daughter's medical condition, to her research on widening circles, Linda's approach is both deeply personal and universally applicable. Through her point of view, we discover how the principles of restorative practices can revolutionize workplace dynamics, fostering greater trust, belonging, and stewardship. Dr. Kligman discusses the importance of vulnerability in leadership and the critical role of soft skills in achieving career success.

As President of the International Institute for Restorative Practices Graduate School, Linda is intrigued by relational approaches that create inclusive and participatory workplaces. Recent publications and presentations center around leadership and followership in higher education, democratizing social services in VUCA environments, and structuring more inclusive dialogue. 

Linda earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Studies from Union Institute and University with a concentration in Ethical and Creative Leadership and a specialization in Martin Luther King, Jr. Studies. Her dissertation, "Widening Circles: A Grounded Theory Study of Workplace Leadership," received two honors: The Marvin B. Sussman Award for originality, interdisciplinarity, and social relevance; and the Virgil A. Wood Award for excellence advancing the legacy of Martin Luther King. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and Appropriate Technology, both from Drexel University, and a Master of Science in Restorative Practices from the IIRP Graduate School. Even more dear to her heart are her relationships as mother, daughter, partner, stepmom, sister, colleague, and friend.

Tune in to hear inspiring stories of organizations that have embraced restorative practices and learn practical tips for leaders looking to cultivate a heart-strong work environment.

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Michelle Jacobs to the Restorative Works! Podcast.   

In this episode, Claire is joined by co-host, IIRP Instructor and Implementation Coach Mike Azzalina, M.Ed. Mike has over 16 years of experience in public education as an elementary school teacher, assistant principal, and principal across elementary and middle schools. As an instructor and implementation coach, he brings restorative practices principles and methodologies to educators across the US.  

Michelle joins us to share invaluable insights gained from her 17 years of teaching experience and her journey as a foster parent. From her classroom rituals to her family dynamics, Michelle reveals how being intentional and utilizing restorative practices can nurture trusting relationships and address behavioral issues.  

Michelle navigates the unique challenges of implementing restorative practices in her first-grade classroom and at home with teenagers, emphasizing the significance of time, intentionality, and community building. Listen to her describe her approaches, including morning circles, proactive problem-solving, asking affirming questions, and managing disruption, all with the goal of promoting a sense of belonging and accountability among her students and foster children.  

Michelle is a dedicated first-grade teacher at Winding Creek Elementary School, with 17 years of experience in education. She believes in creating a classroom environment where every student feels valued, understood, and connected. Michelle's approach to education goes beyond traditional teaching methods, incorporating restorative practices that emphasize building relationships and community within the classroom. By fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere, she aims to address behavioral issues not as transgressions to be punished but as opportunities for learning and growth. Michelle is skilled in guiding students through understanding the impact of their actions, taking responsibility, and making amends. This approach helps develop empathy, responsibility, and collaborative problem-solving skills among the students. She holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Penn State and a master's degree in early education Literacy. 

Tune in to learn more about Michelle’s proactive approaches to building community and trust in her home and classroom.

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Mike Azzalina, M.Ed., to the Restorative Works! Podcast.   

Mike joins us to discuss navigating the nuances of creating inclusive communities, starting with the simple yet profound act of showing up for others. Mike shares personal stories from his journey, including his own challenges growing up with a heart condition and the educators who uplifted him during his toughest moments. Discover how these experiences inspired Mike's bestselling book, Heartbeats: My Greatest Challenge and My Greatest Strength, and fueled his mission to instill love and value in every student and colleague. 

Mike highlights the importance of authenticity, intentionality, and resilience in nurturing healthy school cultures. From fostering meaningful relationships to prioritizing self-care, his wisdom offers practical and inspiring anecdotes on which educators can reflect when navigating today's complex educational landscape. 

Mike is an instructor and implementation coach at the IIRP Graduate School. He spent over 16 years in public education as an elementary school teacher, assistant principal, and principal across elementary and middle schools. Mike is a rising international bestselling author of Heartbeats: My Greatest Challenge and My Greatest Strength. He is passionate about building connections and relationships with people while helping them to develop those same connections with others. Mike is also a public motivational speaker to pass along his passion to educators everywhere. He earned his Bachelor in Elementary Education from Elizabethtown College, Master of Curriculum and Instruction from Penn State University, and Master of Educational Leadership from the American College of Education. 

Tune in to hear Mike’s perspective as an educator and leader on what it means to be intentionally restorative in the school-space.  

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Bobby Morgan to the Restorative Works! Podcast.  

Bobby joins us and reflects on his early struggles as a teacher and the realization that traditional teaching methods were not effective in modern classrooms. He shares how his experiences led him to embrace restorative practices and culturally responsive teaching to build inclusive and supportive learning environments.

With a focus on disrupting conventional education paradigms, Bobby sheds light on the importance of accountability, community-building, and the need to empower students in their learning journey. He shares invaluable insights into the complexities of modern education and the urgent need for systemic change. Bobby inspires us to reimagine education as a collaborative endeavor rooted in empathy, equity, and innovation.

Bobby is an acclaimed speaker and visionary educational consultant dedicated to igniting transformative change within educators. Passionate about education and driven by a mission to build disruptive educators, Bobby works tirelessly to equip professionals with the skills and mindset needed to excel in their roles. His engaging and fun approach to professional development inspires participants to embrace innovative teaching methods.

Specializing in serving educators at all levels, Bobby's expertise shines when working with those serving urban and culturally diverse communities. He believes every student deserves a chance to thrive and helps educators create inclusive, supportive, and transformative learning environments. Bobby's contagious enthusiasm for education radiates whether on stage, in the classroom, or through personalized coaching sessions. His commitment to nurturing educators' and students' potential fosters a lasting positive impact on the future of learning.

Tune in to hear more about Bobby and how the Liberation Lab is changing the educational landscape one educator at a time.