In this episode of 'Freedom From Within,' host Dan Hennepin interviews Evagon, also known as Happy, who shares his transformative journey of parole, faith, and personal growth after over 10 years of incarceration. Happy discusses adjusting to life outside prison, reconnecting with his children, and his spiritual awakening during his time in solitary confinement. He details how his relationship with Jesus Christ deepened and became a cornerstone of his rehabilitation. Happy also talks about his involvement with 'Freedom From Within,' a program that focuses on character development and spiritual foundations, which helped him and other inmates find purpose and strength in their faith. He emphasizes the importance of obedience, foundations, and the joy he found in spiritual discipline.

Changing the Landscape

Transformation Through Trust and Opportunity

In the heart of every individual lies the potential for transformation and greatness. This foundational belief drives the podcast "Freedom From Within," a platform dedicated to reshaping the lives of incarcerated men in Illinois prisons. Dan Hennefent and Cliff Parrish host Bob Hursthouse, founder and CEO of Hearsthouse, Inc., They dive deep into the principles of personal and corporate transformation, offering a beacon of hope and a roadmap for success both within and beyond the walls of the correctional system.
The conversation with Bob Hursthouse sheds light on how a great business culture can be instrumental in providing formerly incarcerated men a foothold in life. Hursthouse, Inc., a landscaping architect company, stands as a testament to the power of culture in business. Founded on the principles of doing the right thing, maintaining a strong reputation, and ensuring workplace enjoyment, Hearsthouse has managed to create an environment that not only attracts but retains talent, demonstrating that care for employees translates directly to quality service and client satisfaction.
The dialogue emphasizes the role of leadership in modeling core values and setting the stage for a positive, productive company culture. Hursthouse’s approach of focusing on people, both clients and team members, and their core values of doing the right thing, building a reputation for tomorrow, and having fun every day, offer valuable lessons for businesses everywhere.
Perhaps most importantly, the episode dives into how personal and corporate engagement with incarcerated individuals can lead to incredible stories of change and improvement. By presenting examples like Hearsthouse to its students, Freedom from Within shows that companies that genuinely care for their employees and customers do exist, challenging and changing perceptions and aspirations.
Through "Freedom From Within," listeners are invited on a transformative journey, reminding us all that within every challenge lies the opportunity for greatness.

www.freedomfromwithin.org

www.hursthouse.com

This episode of Freedom From Within features an interview with Ronnie Carrasquillo, who spent over 47 years incarcerated before experiencing a complete life transformation. Ronnie's insights into the power of personal transformation and the need for hands-on support in prisons are highlighted, emphasizing the positive impact of faith-based programs and the potential for collaboration between different networks to effect change.

We welcome to the podcast Freedom From Within's Re-entry Advocate, Cheryl Stoval

With 20 years of a decorated background in conflict management, diversity advocacy, and strategic leadership development for the United States Army and the Corp of Engineers. Our guest today is all of that and more! She is the most recent addition to Freedom From Within's volunteer group, and we expect that as the first re-entry advocate, she will be the bridge for many of our graduates as they transition from incarceration to integration in communities as free men. Here from Cheryl as she shares her vision to be the bridge to 2nd Chances.

Host Dan Hennefent

Co-Host Cliff Parrish

Guest Cheryl Stovall

""Housing and employment," replied Jason, highlighting the significant challenges faced by individuals reintegrating into society after incarceration. Jason's story on the FFW podcast (Season

For individuals like Jason, finding suitable housing post-prison is daunting, with stigma leading to outright rejections and perpetuating cycles of instability. Securing stable employment is equally challenging due to preconceived notions, further marginalizing those seeking a fresh start.

The journey from prison to freedom involves critical challenges, especially in securing housing and employment. These aren't just logistical hurdles; they are crucial elements for breaking free from the cycle of incarceration.

We are actively pursuing solutions to support those reintegrating into society, and your support is key to achieving meaningful change. Partner with Freedom From Within to be a driving force for

Your support, through donations or providing housing and employment solutions, can profoundly impact lives.

Contribute at

https://www.freedomfromwithin.org/donate

contact us at

Together, let's break down barriers and create a society that embraces and supports individuals

Host - Dan Hennefent

Co-Host - Cliff Parrish

Guest - Jason Rodriguez

"Today, we're shining a spotlight on the incredible impact of the Freedom From Within program and the inspiring stories of its graduates.

In Season 2, Episode 1 of the Freedom From Within Podcast, Troy, a graduate of the program, shares his story of post-release life.

Troy's words testify to the positive transformation that can occur when individuals are given the tools, support, and opportunities to reintegrate into society.

Troy expresses not just gratitude for freedom but also a profound sense of joy and fulfillment in the 14 months since his release.

Freedom From Within is on a mission to empower incarcerated men in prisons to realize the masterpiece they were created to be. The programs we host goes beyond providing a second chance; it fosters an environment where individuals like Troy can rebuild their lives, pursue their dreams, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Supporting programs like Freedom From Within is not just about helping those who were incarcerated; it's an investment in building a stronger, more compassionate society. When individuals like Troy are given the resources they need to succeed, the benefits extend far beyond the individual. Families are reunited, communities thrive, and society as a whole becomes more resilient.

As we celebrate the success of Troy, let's remember that their story is just one among many. By amplifying these voices, we contribute to changing perceptions and dismantling the barriers that individuals face after incarceration.

Curious about making a meaningful impact? Explore ways to get involved by visiting

https://www.freedomfromwithin.org. Whether you choose to volunteer or support our initiatives

Host Dan Hennenfent

Co-Host Cliff Parrish

Guest Troy Randall

Welcome to Freedom From Within Podcast.

This is Episode 19,  Authentic Friendship Rap-Up

We are a Non-profit program teaching life skills inside prisons. Our program has been so successful inside prison we thought we would offer it outside of prison.

We all need Freedom From Within, so please join us as we discuss life skills and the principles behind them.

You will hear from our students, business leaders, and of course the instructors of Freedom From Within - Cliff and Sue Parrish

Like us on www.facebook.com/findfreedomfromwithin/

Visit us at www.FreedomFromWithin.org

Background Music by www.facebook.com/diamondortiz

Welcome to Freedom From Within Podcast.

This is Episode 18,  Authentic Friendship - Guest Nadine Spizzirri

We are a Non-profit program teaching life skills inside prisons. Our program has been so successful inside prison we thought we would offer it outside of prison.

We all need Freedom From Within, so please join us as we discuss life skills and the principles behind them.

You will hear from our students, business leaders and of course the instructors of Freedom From Within - Cliff and Sue Parrish

Like us on www.facebook.com/findfreedomfromwithin/

Visit us at www.FreedomFromWithin.org

Background Music by www.facebook.com/diamondortiz

Welcome to Freedom From Within Podcast.

This is Episode 17, Authentic Friendships - Guest Lance Miller Part 2

Mr. Miller is a graduate of our Transformational Rythems program and is now living his life back in society.

Join us as we hear from Lance and the importance of living with purpose to be an Authentic Friend to others.

Freedom From Within is a Non-profit program teaching life skills inside prisons. Our program has been so successful inside prison we thought we would offer it outside of prison.

We all need Freedom From Within, so please join us as we discuss life skills and the principles behind them.

You will hear from our students, business leaders and of course the instructors of Freedom From Within - Cliff and Sue Parrish

Like us on www.facebook.com/findfreedomfromwithin/

Visit us at www.FreedomFromWithin.org

Background Music by www.facebook.com/diamondortiz

Welcome to Freedom From Within Podcast.

This is Episode 16, Authentic Friendships - Guest Lance Miller Part 1

Mr. Miller is a graduate of our Transformational Rythems program and is now living his life back in society.

Join us as we hear from Lance and the importance of living with purpose to be an Authentic Friend to others.

Freedom From Within is a Non-profit program teaching life skills inside prisons. Our program has been so successful inside prison we thought we would offer it outside of prison.

We all need Freedom From Within, so please join us as we discuss life skills and the principles behind them.

You will hear from our students, business leaders and of course the instructors of Freedom From Within - Cliff and Sue Parrish

Like us on www.facebook.com/findfreedomfromwithin/

Visit us at www.FreedomFromWithin.org

Background Music by www.facebook.com/diamondortiz