In this 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 the foster care-to-prison pipeline-- and why every young person deserves a second chance. Tune in to hear more about the philosophies that drive his work and inspire his mission.

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 crime and poverty. Tune in to hear about the impact of one-on-one interventions and the success stories that fuel Pamela's passion for her work!

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 resistance, tune in to listen to powerful stories of Black history and its lasting influence.

This episode was made possible with National Geographic Kids, BlackPast.org, The Harvard Gazette, U.S. Department of Labor, Pew Research Center, and the African American Intellectual History Society.

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, restoring voting rights to over 50,000 Californians on parole, Michael’s impact is undeniable, helping pass SB 1391 and making California the first state to prohibit transferring 14- and 15-year-olds to adult court.

Appointed by President Biden to the Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Michael continues to champion second chances as a consultant on reentry and criminal justice reform. Join us as we explore his journey from incarceration to becoming one of the most influential voices in juvenile justice today.

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, 2024. Terrence shares his journey from being incarcerated as a teenager to adjusting to life as a free man. He opens up about the struggles of transitioning from childhood to adulthood behind bars, the harsh realities of house arrest and probation, and how he’s currently navigating post-incarceration society. Tune in to hear Terrence's story of resilience and redemption!

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). Tune in to hear his inspiring story of redemption and a second chance!