In the opening episode of this new season, VanKe’via and Brother Robert Lilly emphasize the importance of understanding the historical factors that influence voting experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals. Brother Lilly shared his lived experience with the legal system and the challenges of powering through the system’s restrictions on civic engagement. Tune into to learn more about how Brother Lilly’s lived experience has shaped his perspective and action towards voter restoration.

Interested in learning more about Brother Robert Lilly:

Grassroots Leadership Team Page

Linkedin

Instagram page

Voices from Inside: A Letter by Robert Lilly

Interested in learning more about the Power of Voting and Civic Engagement:

Initiate Justice Resource Page

Register to vote or update your registration

Congressional, state, and local elections

Increasing Public Safety by Restoring Voting Rights

Connect with More Life: The Reentry Podcast:

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Interest Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Trey Lokey

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

In this trailer episode, we introduce our new season, Civic Redemption: Empowering the Formerly Incarcerated Vote. This season is dedicated to exploring the power of voting and civic engagement for individuals impacted by the criminal legal system. We’ll provide an overview of the key themes, topics, and guests featured in the upcoming episodes, offering a glimpse into the powerful stories and expert insights that will shape our journey through the complex intersection of voting rights and reentry.

What to Expect in Upcoming Episodes:

• In-depth discussions on the history and impact of felony disenfranchisement.
• Insights from formerly incarcerated individuals who have reclaimed their right to vote.
• Legal perspectives on voter restoration and barriers to civic participation.
• Educational resources for listeners interested in supporting voting rights for system-impacted communities.

Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure to subscribe to More Life: The Reentry Podcast on your favorite podcast platform so you don’t miss any episodes of this important season. Follow us on social media for updates, episode releases, and more.

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Interest Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Trey Lokey

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

I have served my time, can I expunge my record? A commonly asked question by those with criminal records. A question that people also tend to not know how to answer. In this episode, VanKe'via and J.J Prescott delve into a conversation on the power of a clean slate. J.J. Prescott is the Henry King Ransom Professor of Law at the University of Michigan. His research interests revolve around criminal law, sentencing law and reform, employment law, and the dynamics of civil litigation.

Preface:

This episode does not intend to serve as legal advice. For more help and assistance, please consult with a legal attorney. The information provided is based on research and does not reflect the opinions of More Life: The Reentry Podcast or the guests of the podcast.

If you are interested in following Dr. Prescott on social media or professional website, please see below:

Twitter: jjprescott2009 

Professional Website 

If you are interested in learning more about Dr. Prescotts work, please review his publications and research: 

The Power of a Clean Slate 

Expungement of Criminal Convictions: An Empirical Study 

Interested in Learning More Information about Expungement, see the links below:

Expungement: Criminal Records as Reentry Barriers

Adult Expungement & Sealing Information and Forms

Illinois Restoration of Rights & Record Relief  

Want an experiential understanding of reentry?

Checkr Reentry Simulation 

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast 

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Jordan Cox 

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

I have a criminal record and I want to go to college. The criminal justice system and higher education are two major systems that can arise significant challenges for individuals, especially those with a criminal record. Tune in as VanKe’via and Dr. Stewart discuss the impact of a criminal record on higher educational opportunities, including navigating college admissions and financial aid. Dr. Robert Stewart is an Assistant Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Maryland. He studies the social, political, and collateral consequences of criminal legal involvement, emphasizing the accumulating effects of criminal legal interaction and criminal records on impacted people and communities.

Preface:

This episode does not intend to serve as legal advice. For more help and assistance, please consult with a legal attorney. The information provided is based on research and does not reflect the opinions of More Life: The Reentry Podcast or the guests of the podcast.

Want to learn more about Dr. Robert Stewart, check out his social media and professional website:

Bluesky media

Robert Stewart Twitter

To learn more about the impact of a criminal record on college admissions and financial aid:

How to get into college if you have a criminal record

Admissions and Access for Incarcerated Individuals

Navigating Higher Education and Employment: Resource Toolkit For People Impacted by the Criminal Legal System

Formerly Incarcerated College Graduate Network

Want an experiential understanding of reentry?

Checkr Reentry Simulation

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Jordan Cox

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

One statement we often hear: You are not allowed to vote if you have a felony or have been to prison. Is this true? Tune into a conversation with our host, VanKe'via, to discuss the common myth associated with voting and criminal records. VanKe'via provides an understanding of the power of voting and the process of voting registration for those with a criminal record. It's important to know your rights and this episodes provides information regarding voting rights for those impacted by the legal system.

Preface:

This episode does not intend to serve as legal advice. For more help and assistance, please consult with a legal attorney. The information provided is based on research and does not reflect the opinions of More Life: The Reentry Podcast or the guests of the podcast.

Resources below:

Voting Rights Reentry Mythbusters

Know Your Rights: Voting with a Criminal Record

A Guide to State Voting Rules After a Criminal Conviction

Want an experiential understanding of reentry?

Checkr Reentry Simulation

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Jordan Cox

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

Often times people are misinformed of their rights when interacting with law enforcement. For people with a criminal record or who are on community supervision, they may come in contact with law enforcement more often. Therefore, it is imperative to know our rights as it pertains to interacting with law enforcement. Dr. Paul Bergman is a UCLA Professor of Law Emeritus. Among other books, he has written or co-written books on criminal law and procedures, evidence rules and trial techniques, legal analysis, and courtroom movies. Dr. Paul Bergman has received the UCLA Distinguished Teaching Award.

Preface:

This is not to be legal advice. For more help and assistance, please consult a legal attorney. The information provided is based on research and does not reflect the opinions of More Life: The Reentry Podcast or the guests of the podcast

If you are interested in learning more about Dr. Paul Bergman's work, please review his publications and research:

The Criminal Law Handbook Know Your Rights, Survive The System by Dr. Paul Bergman

Represent Yourself in Court Prepare and Try Winning Civil Case

Criminal Law: A Desk Reference

If you are interested in learning more about what to do when interacting with the police while having a history with the Criminal Justice System:

Know Your Rights - Stopped by Police

The Reintegration Report Card

The Rights of Felons After Release

Want an experiential understanding of reentry?

Checkr Reentry Simulation

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Jordan Cox

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

Am I eligible for SNAP benefits after incarceration? A commonly asked question among those being released from incarceration or on community supervision. In this episode, VanKe’via and Dr. Testa explore the impact of criminal records on SNAP eligibility, the challenges faced by those reentering communities, and the broader implications on their well-being. Dr. Alexander Testa is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health. His research focuses on the consequences of criminal justice system involvement and violence exposure for health and wellbeing over the life-course.

Preface: This episode does not intend to serve as legal advice. For more help and assistance, please consult with a legal attorney. The information provided is based on research and does not reflect the opinions of More Life: The Reentry Podcast or the guests of the podcast. 

Follow Dr. Testa on socials? 

 Twitter Page 

 Linkedin Website 

 Instagram Page 

Professional Website 

Want to learn more about Dr. Testa’s research and publications?

Formerly incarcerated Texans deserve better access to SNAP benefits

Criminal justice system involvement and food insufficiency

General information about public assistance and reentry: 

History, Background, and Goals of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

Ex-prisoners are going hungry amid barriers, bans to benefits on the outside 

How SNAP Can Better Serve the Formerly Incarcerated 

Checkr Reentry Simulation 

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast 

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Jordan Cox 

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

Can I leave the country, or can I leave state? A commonly asked question by people on supervision or those with a criminal record. In this episode, VanKevia and Mr. Douglas dive into a conversation to discuss travel rights and restrictions for those who've experienced incarceration. Specifically, they will discuss traveling as it relates to supervision and traveling internationally. Mr. Douglas has a Master's degree in higher education and has worked in the criminal legal system for about 4 years.

Preface:

This is not to be legal advice. For more help and assistance, please consult a legal attorney. The information provided is based on research and does not reflect the opinions of More Life: The Reentry Podcast or the guests of the podcast 

If you are interested in learning more about travel rights when navigating the reentry process, linked below are some informational resources:  

Transportation after Incarceration: WHERE THE RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD FOR SUSTAINABLE REENTRY 

CAN I GET A PASSPORT WITH A FELONY ARREST RECORD | HOW TO GET YOUR US PASSPORT | CRIMINAL RECORD

How Criminal Records Affect Passports and Your Right to Travel Georgia Justice Project 

International travel restrictions based on criminal record

Want an experiential understanding of reentry?

Checkr Reentry Simulation 

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast 

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Jordan Cox 

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

On this episode, VanKe’via delves into a discussion on the marijuana rights for formerly incarcerated individuals and those on parole. Tune into this conversation as VanKe'via discusses the impact of marijuana laws on individuals transitioning back into society. This episode also aims to inform those with legal involvement of the rights and restrictions related to marijuana-related policies and practices.

Preface:

This episode does not intend to serve as legal advice. For more help and assistance, please consult with a legal attorney. The information provided is based on research and does not reflect the opinions of More Life: The Reentry Podcast or the guests of the podcast. 

Want to learn more about marijuana state laws?

Marijuana Legality by State

State Laws Regarding Marijuana

General information about marijuana-related laws: 

Who's Really in Prison for Marijuana?

Facts about Marijuana Equity Decriminalization

Measuring the CJS Impacts of Legalization and Decriminalization

Marijuana and Record Clearing

Want an experiential understanding of reentry?

Checkr Reentry Simulation 

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast 

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Brendan Hays

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF

The upcoming series, "On the Record," will focus on educating the formerly incarcerated about their legal rights and responsibilities, covering subjects such as voting rights, travel, employment, and public assistance. The aim is not to provide legal advice but to empower listeners with knowledge and direction to make informed decisions and advocate for themselves effectively. The podcast will feature guests who will contribute to the discussion of these issues and will release new episodes every Tuesday, with additional resources mentioned in their description boxes. The first episode in the series will explore the rights and issues surrounding marijuana in the context of legalization and decriminalization, particularly for those with prior drug offenses or who are under legal supervision like parole.

Preface:

This episode does not intend to serve as legal advice. For more help and assistance, please consult with a legal attorney. The information provided is based on research and does not reflect the opinions of More Life: The Reentry Podcast or the guests of the podcast. 

Want an experiential understanding of reentry?

Checkr Reentry Simulation 

Instagram: @morelifethereentrypodcast 

Want to send us topic ideas or reach out to us? Complete the form: Topic Ideas Form

Are you formerly incarcerated and want to share your story? Complete this form: Resilient Reentrants Form

Please listen, rate, and review. Thank you, More Life!

Host: VanKe’via Garner, M. S.

Produced by Brendan Hays

https://uppbeat.io/track/hartzmann/good-feelings

License Code:WWUKNN1ALHEZYUNF