The conversation explores the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals in reintegrating into society, highlighting the barriers they encounter and the innovative solutions provided by the Ready for Life program. Terah Lawyer discusses the program's four pillars, the importance of partnerships, and the need for individualized support to ensure successful reentry. The dialogue emphasizes the critical role of changing societal narratives and breaking the stigma associated with incarceration.

Martha S. Jones joins Kimberly Atkins Stohr where they discuss her memoir, 'The Trouble of Color,' exploring themes of identity, family history, and the complexities of being Black in America. The discussion delves into the historical context of birthright citizenship, the erasure of Black history, and the importance of preserving family stories. Martha emphasizes the need for understanding one's roots and the significance of family narratives in shaping identity.

Find the book here: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/martha-s-jones/the-trouble-of-color/9781541601000/

Kimberly Atkins Stohr talks with Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible, to discuss the current state of resistance in America. They explore the importance of grassroots organizing, defining clear goals for the resistance movement, and empowering local communities to take action. Levin emphasizes the need for a unified opposition to the current political climate and provides strategies for citizens to engage with their representatives during congressional recesses. The conversation highlights the power of collective action and the necessity of creating an environment that encourages civic engagement.

Kimberly Atkins Stohr interviews James Hodge, a professor at Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor School of Law, on the significance of vaccination policies in addressing recent public health issues. They delve into the history of vaccine policies, the rise of vaccine hesitancy due to misinformation, and legal frameworks for mandates and personal liberties. The discussion highlights the importance of community advocacy and media literacy in combating misinformation and promoting public health.

Kimberly Atkins Stohr speaks with Ary Amerikaner, co-founder and executive director of Brown's Promise, about the ongoing issues of school segregation and the impact of historical court cases like Brown v. Board of Education and Milliken v. Bradley. They discuss the current state of education in America, the importance of community engagement, and the need for creative solutions to promote school integration and equity in education funding.

Brown’s Promise: https://www.brownspromise.org/

The Containment: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374250423/thecontainment/

Kimberly Atkins Stohr meets with Ben Raderstorf from Protect Democracy to discuss the current threats to democracy in the United States. They explore the overwhelming feelings many citizens experience in the face of authoritarianism, the importance of long-term thinking, and actionable steps individuals can take to protect democratic values. The conversation also highlights the critical role of journalism in informing the public and the need for diverse information sources during this tumultuous time.

Kimberly Atkins Stohr speaks with Scott Ernest, a former white nationalist who now advocates for de-radicalization and prevention of extremism. They discuss the rise of hate groups, the importance of empathy and support for those leaving extremist ideologies, and the need for community involvement in preventing recruitment into such movements. Scott shares his personal journey from extremism to advocacy, emphasizing the significance of understanding and patience when dealing with loved ones who may be veering towards radical beliefs.

Kimberly and Jasmine Beach-Ferrara discuss the pressing issues facing LGBTQ+ individuals in the South, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by trans youth. They explore the mission of the Campaign for Southern Equality, the intersectionality of race, poverty, and LGBTQ+ rights, and the importance of community support and advocacy. The conversation emphasizes the need for love, understanding, and action in the face of hostile legislation and societal challenges, while also highlighting the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights and the ongoing fight for equality.

The battle to protect LGBTQ rights is winnable — but will take a fightbostonglobe.com

Kimberly Atkins Stohr and Jen Shugerman discuss the complexities surrounding birthright citizenship as established by the 14th Amendment. They explore the historical context of the amendment, the implications of presidential power over immigration, and the potential for the Supreme Court to overturn established precedents. The conversation emphasizes the importance of birthright citizenship as a foundational principle of American identity and the need for civic engagement to protect it.

Kim is joined this week by Erin Hysom, a Senior Child Nutrition Policy Analyst at the Food Research and Action Center, discusses the critical issue of childhood hunger and the importance of school meals. She highlights the impact of food insecurity on children's health and academic performance, the benefits of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) in providing free meals to all students, and the challenges faced by school nutrition programs. Erin emphasizes the need for increased funding and advocacy to ensure that all children have access to nutritious meals, which is essential for their well-being and success in school.

https://frac.org/