Fred Ward sits down off-script with longtime friend Natasha Watts to talk about coming from the mud, the strength of their mothers, and why her bail bond business became a ministry rooted in dignity, family, and showing up for people. They connect the streets, the courts, and reentry realities to voting power, low turnout, and how systems can work exactly as designed, including privatized prisons and collateral sanctions that block people coming home. 

00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro

01:15 Mothers and Strength

03:22 Bail Bonds as Ministry

06:17 Judges and Voting Power

08:02 Survival Mode and Preparation

11:54 Traps for Young Men

14:58 Mentoring and Listening

20:23 Reentry Jobs and CQE

24:02 Turnout and Political Neglect

29:20 Marijuana Law Changes

32:39 Tax Funds Taken Away

34:03 Weed Tax Money Taken

35:43 Stadium Deal Outrage

36:23 Local Leaders Accountable

40:14 Crime Inside Government

41:23 Voting vs Giving Up

44:51 Unrestricted Power Explained

48:28 Civic Death Concept

52:07 Be the Light Action

53:12 Vote or Get Counted Out

56:10 Programs Starved of Funds

01:00:02 Community Conversation Plan

01:03:32 Legacy and Final Charge

Fred Ward hosts Eric Brakken on Count Time Now to shift from discussing barriers to sharing solutions in the re-entry community, focusing on affordable, energy-efficient housing with dignity. Brakken, a 30-year organizer from Florida, describes work with the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition and Desmond Meade, including the 2018 voting rights expansion restoring rights to 1.4 million returning citizens, and Florida’s $15 minimum wage, while noting housing costs remain a major obstacle. Ward explains how organizing changed his life and why immediate needs like housing must be addressed alongside civic engagement. He details launching the “Miracle Mile” vision in Cleveland’s Glenville, completing a renovated home that filled instantly, then partnering with Brakken—who invested his own money—to build a proof of concept that expanded from one house to six plus two commercial buildings, aiming to attract capital to rebuild communities.

00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro
01:48 Eric Brakken Background
02:48 Florida Voting Rights Win
04:36 Housing Becomes Priority
05:45 Fred Organizing Journey
08:03 Miracle Mile Vision
10:14 First House Proof
12:31 Eric Joins the Build
15:52 Scaling Up the Model
16:53 Investing Capital Locally
19:59 Capitalism and Redlining
21:23 Philanthropy and Power
25:50 Closing Mission and Tease

Join Fred Ward in this compelling episode of 'Count Time' as we step into 2026 with a powerful New Year's discussion. Fred hosts his esteemed colleague Tancred Jones, who brings a treasure trove of history and insight into the challenges faced by individuals with felony records. Tan shares his journey from the medical field to the restaurant industry, shedding light on the harsh realities of 'collateral sanctions' and their lasting impact on career opportunities. Dive into an authentic conversation about resilience, community support, and the fight for policy change. This isn't just another podcast—it's a movement to uplift and inspire. Don't miss Tan's advice on building successful businesses and the heartfelt mission to change perceptions and laws affecting directly impacted individuals.

00:00 Introduction and New Year's Greetings
00:38 Introducing Tancred Jones
02:00 The Purpose of Count Time Podcast
04:06 Tan's Consulting Business
05:48 Developing People, Not Managing Them
08:39 Tan's Journey into the Medical Field
11:59 Barriers and Collateral Sanctions
17:31 Discussion on Criminal Justice and Recidivism
21:00 Introduction of the New Interviewer
21:02 From Treachery to Transformation
21:34 Realizations and Reflections
22:41 Survivor's Remorse and Redemption
23:34 The Journey of Healing and Helping Others
24:35 Philosophical Insights and Personal Growth
27:52 Steps to Self-Improvement
34:38 Challenges and Systemic Issues
40:11 Conclusion and Call to Action

Fred Ward hosts another insightful episode of the Count Time Now podcast, reflecting on the impactful year of 2025. Fred highlights major milestones like the successful Count Time convening attended by over 500 people, legislation passed for women's hygiene products in prisons, and initiatives focused on reducing violence and improving housing in Ohio communities. He celebrates the stories of directly impacted individuals and advocates for continued collective action. The episode underscores the importance of voting, community building, and persistent efforts to combat systemic injustices. Join Fred as he discusses the journey ahead and calls for more people to get involved in 2026.

00:00 Introduction and Reflections on 2025
00:48 Count Time Convening and Community Building
01:32 Expanding the Film Movement
01:51 Redefining 'Directly Impacted'
03:10 Legislative Successes and Advocacy
04:32 Addressing Collateral Sanctions
05:54 Community Engagement in Glenville
07:48 Lead-Free Housing Initiatives
09:04 Economic Investments and Local Heroes
10:27 Welcoming Home Community Members
13:06 Launching the Podcast: Count Time Now
15:18 The Lynch Amongst Us: A Powerful Play
18:57 Call to Action and Acknowledgements
23:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In today’s episode of 'Count Time Now, host Fred Ward sits down with Dante Ferguson, also known as Iceberg Ferg, to discuss his remarkable transformation from a gang leader to a youth violence intervention advocate. They delve into their initial meeting, Dante's challenging past and gang affiliations, and the profound personal growth he has undergone over the years. Dante shares his harrowing experiences, the adverse childhood events that shaped his life, and his newfound mission to guide at-risk youth away from a path of violence. The conversation also introduces an innovative curriculum, ACE to ACEs, aimed at addressing adverse childhood experiences and reshaping young lives.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:44 First Meeting and Initial Impressions

01:47 Challenges in Violence Intervention Work

02:38 Gang Affiliation and Its Impact

04:12 Growth and Transformation

06:05 Adverse Childhood Experiences

07:42 The Making of Iceberg Ferg

12:04 Reformation and Realizations

15:32 Understanding the Impact of Trauma

16:48 A Life-Changing Experience

16:59 The Turning Point

17:45 A New Perspective on Life

18:46 Introducing the ACE to ACEs Curriculum

20:31 Personal Reflections on Adverse Childhood Experiences

22:27 The Reality of Trauma

24:50 The Path to Transformation

27:36 A Message of Hope and Dedication

In this compelling episode of 'Count Time,' join us as we dive deep with 2 Guests into powerful discussions on overcoming past mistakes, societal reintegration, and breaking free from the chains of adversity. From personal stories of hardship to dissecting the impact of socio-economic systems on crime and poverty, we uncover the complex layers of resilience and transformation. We also explore the profound effects of childhood experiences and the systemic obstacles faced by marginalized communities. 

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of Count Time

01:23 Challenges of Staying Out of Trouble

01:46 The Impact of Choices and Society's Perception

06:17 The American Dream and Strain Theory

14:31 Systematic Oppression and Mass Incarceration

21:03 Generational Dysfunction and Survival

30:02 The Power of Personal Stories

31:09 Statistics and Realities of Youth

32:28 Overcoming Adversity and Leadership

33:25 The Dark Path and Redemption

36:55 Challenges of Parenting and Environment

43:57 The Need for Community and Support

53:25 Creating a Shared Language and Purpose

In this episode of Count Time Now, Fred Ward reconnects with his childhood friend, to navigate through their transformative journeys from their challenging beginnings in Cleveland's tough neighborhoods to their impactful roles today. They delve into their personal histories, discussing the struggles of growing up in difficult environments, their involvement in the streets, and the pivotal moments that inspired them to change their lives. The conversation also highlights the significant impact of the KMU Foundation and their collective efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic to support the community. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt discussion about resilience, redemption, and the power of community advocacy.

00:00 Welcome Back to Count Time

00:33 Interview with Childhood Friend Prophecy

00:51 Reflecting on the Past

01:24 Growing Up in the Struggle

01:49 Community and Activism

02:35 Early Hustles and Street Life

07:28 Historical Context and Family Legacy

13:37 Reconnecting After Prison

18:21 Navigating Business and Politics

21:53 The Power of Voting and Community Support

25:30 Embracing Change and Growth

25:46 Career Journey and Community Impact

26:16 Pandemic Response and Collaboration

31:14 Personal Transformations and Reflections

45:31 Challenges Facing Today's Youth

51:46 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this inspiring episode of Count Time Now, host Fred Ward sits down with two remarkable young men, Marquez and Brandon (aka 'Streets'), to discuss their transformative journeys. Fresh out of incarceration, both brothers share powerful stories of redemption, community leadership, and the importance of voting and civic engagement. They shed light on building new relationships with local leaders, planning community events, and their shared vision for 2026. Tune in for a raw, unfiltered conversation about overcoming adversity, embracing leadership, and making meaningful change in their neighborhoods. Don’t miss the powerful analogies, heartfelt moments, and future plans that will get you thinking about what’s truly possible when community members unite for positive change.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:59 Meeting Streets and His Story

07:52 Brandon's Journey and Reflections

12:44 Community Engagement and Voting

15:55 First Council Meeting Experience

21:33 Connecting with Councilwoman Gray

23:05 Big Griff and Community Outreach

23:17 Collaborations with Case Western Reserve

24:32 Rebuilding the Community

26:58 Public Safety vs. Public Health

30:39 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Juvenile Experiences

33:08 The Importance of Consistency and Community Programs

40:31 Imagining a Better Future

44:30 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

Join Fred Ward and a group of resilient brothers for a deep, raw, and unfiltered episode of Count Time Now. From encounters with systemic injustices to navigating life after wrongful convictions, these men lay it all out. They dive into the life-changing power of voting, the haunting effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the importance of credible messengers in communities. Experience their stories and learn how they channel past traumas into powerful transformations. This is more than just a podcast—it's a movement towards understanding and rebuilding lives.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions

02:19 Discussing Felony Convictions and Voting

06:10 The Importance of Voting and Community Involvement

08:37 Personal Stories and Reflections on Incarceration

11:23 Challenges Faced by Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

16:02 Youth and Early Experiences with Crime

22:51 Navigating the Justice System

25:19 The Impact of Childhood Trauma

25:51 Survival Mode and Its Consequences

30:31 Triggers and Coping Mechanisms

32:35 Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

34:03 Reflecting on Past Trauma

39:47 The Importance of Safe Spaces for Healing

43:28 Empowerment and Building Power

45:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this riveting episode of Count Time, Fred Ward engages in a profound conversation with his longtime colleague Donovan. The discussion spans their shared experiences of incarceration, the transformative journey post-release, and the unique challenges faced by those with criminal records. They highlight the importance of voting, its strategic value for formerly incarcerated individuals, and debunk myths surrounding civic engagement. With personal anecdotes, including the harrowing tale of Fred's near-fatal accident shortly after his release, this episode emphasizes the essence of resilience and the power of collective action. Tune in for an insightful dialogue that urges reflection, understanding, and mobilization in the face of systemic barriers.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

00:44 Shared History and Reflections

02:15 Dedication and Audience Focus

03:35 Understanding 'Count Time'

07:00 Planning for Freedom

10:30 Challenges After Release

17:44 Discipline and Personal Growth

26:46 Collective Consciousness and Discipline

28:49 Guardian Angels and Support Systems

29:32 A Loyal Friend's Exhausting Night

30:26 A Near-Fatal Drive Home

32:04 Reflecting on Life's Close Calls

33:19 The Reality of Post-Prison Life

34:34 Sacrifices and Family

38:53 The Importance of Voting

41:57 Organizing for Change

46:17 The Power of Collective Action

50:21 Overcoming Misconceptions

01:04:59 The Struggle for Post-Prison Rights