In this episode of 'Your Daily Chocolate,' John David Graham discusses his extraordinary life. After founding Good Samaritan Home, a program for helping former inmates reintegrate into society, John reflects on his diverse career history and life challenges. He shares how his upbringing in the 50s and 60s and various job experiences, from truck driver to firefighter, shaped him. At 53, he pivoted to nonprofit work, and later at 75, published his debut novel, 'Running as Fast as I Can,' which won 48 literary awards. John highlights the importance of second chances and community support in overcoming life's obstacles.

Find out more and connect with John David Graham:

https://johndavidgraham.com/

https://goodsamaritanhome.org/

https://facebook.com/JGrahamAuthor

https://johndavidgraham.substack.com/

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to John David Graham

01:22 John's Early Life and Career Detours

02:28 Meeting His Wife and Early Struggles

06:18 Founding Good Samaritan Home

07:29 Challenges and Success Stories

09:50 The Importance of Second Chances

15:14 John's Novel and Its Inspiration

16:09 Lifeboat Safety and Second Chances

16:51 Overcoming Rejections and Finding the Right Audience

18:42 The Sequel: Requiem and Its Themes

19:07 Reflections on Race and Society

20:59 Advice for Overcoming Hardships

22:18 The Importance of Community Support

24:01 Future Plans and Personal Reflections

26:20 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts

29:46 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser